The Texas Rangers found their new catcher.   Danny Jansen agreed to a two-year, $14.5-million con...

<p>The Texas Rangers found their new catcher. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5445" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5445">Danny Jansen</a> agreed to a two-year, $14.5-million contract with the Rangers on Friday, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1999666198070591550">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>.</p><p>The 30-year-old will replace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5040" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5040">Jonah Heim</a>, who was non-tendered by the club last month, and share time behind the plate with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1887" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1887">Kyle Higashioka</a>. Jansen's played in at least 100 games in a season just once in his eight-year career, back in 2019.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jansen split last season with the Tampa Bay Rays and Milwaukee Brewers, hitting .215/.321/.399 with 14 home runs across 98 games. He ranked in the 98th percentile in blocks, but graded poorly in framing, while throwing out 20 of 83 runners (24.1%), per Baseball Savant. Jansen's 1.3 fWAR would have led Rangers catchers last season, as the team ranked 26th in fWAR at the position. </p><p>Texas also added right-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/13669" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/13669">Alexis Díaz</a>, and left-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8168" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8168">Tyler Alexander</a> to one-year contracts, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1999669972629618919">Jeff Passan of ESPN</a>. </p><p>Díaz was an All-Star closer for the Cincinnati Reds in 2023 but has struggled over the last two seasons. He bounced around three different organizations in 2025, posting a 8.15 ERA over 17 2/3 innings. </p><p>Alexander authored a 4.98 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, and 92 strikeouts over 97 2/3 innings with the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago White Sox last season. He made five starts over his 52 appearances, while also finishing 12 games. </p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JULY 30: Danny Jansen #33 of the Milwaukee Brewers up to bat against the Chicago Cubs at American Family Field on July 30, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Report: Rangers, Danny Jansen agree to 2-year, $14.5M contract 

The MLB offseason is underway. Follow along for analysis of all major transactions over the winte...

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MLB offseason: Analysis for all major moves

The 2026 MLB Draft order will be determined by Tuesday's lottery, with the draw starting at 5:30 ...

<p>The 2026 MLB Draft order will be determined by Tuesday's lottery, with the draw starting at 5:30 p.m. ET.</p><p>The Chicago White Sox (27.7%), Minnesota Twins (22.2%), and Pittsburgh Pirates (16.8%) are the three teams with the best odds to secure the No. 1 pick. The Colorado Rockies are ineligible to win the draft lottery despite finishing with MLB's worst record in 2025 as they cannot receive a lottery pick in more than two consecutive seasons.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2026 Draft lottery odds" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0u8MR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0u8MR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="846" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The draft lottery was implemented in 2023. Every team that misses the postseason is initially eligible to participate in order to determine the top six selections.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pittsburgh won the inaugural lottery and selected <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> with the No. 1 pick in 2023. Since then, the Cleveland Guardians (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18837" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18837">Travis Bazzana</a>, 2024), and Nationals (Eli Willits, 2025) have landed the top pick.</p>

DALLAS, TX - DECEMBER 10: A detail shot of signage prior to the Draft Lottery at the 2024 MLB Winter Meetings at Hilton Anatole on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 in Dallas, Texas.

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2026 MLB Draft Lottery odds

The reigning National League home run leader has a robust market this free agency.   Kyle Schwarb...

<p>The reigning National League home run leader has a robust market this free agency. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/4761" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/4761">Kyle Schwarber</a> is receiving interest from the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, Cincinnati Reds, and New York Mets, among others, according to <a href="https://www.threads.com/@jeffpassan/post/DRssMOgjQ5T?xmt=AQF0zanfaq0pxaUlEYCPDwycvubQijp2OJKY1axuLnqzzCs">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>. </p><p>The San Francisco Giants are also eyeing Schwarber, reports <a href="https://x.com/jonmorosi/status/1995878062605697313">Jon Morosi of MLB Network</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Phillies are the favorites to re-sign the 2025 NL MVP runner-up after he spent the last four seasons in Philadelphia, per Passan.</p><p>Schwarber couldn't have put together a better platform season. The 32-year-old slashed .240/.365/.563 with a career-high 56 home runs and 132 RBIs while also posting a .928 OPS and 150 OPS+. It was the fourth straight season in which Schwarber hit at least 38 homers and posted an OPS above .800.</p><p>That type of production makes it no surprise that Schwarber would have a sizable market as one of the best free-agent bats available despite being almost exclusively a designated hitter at this point in his career.</p><p>Schwarber spent part of the 2021 season with the Red Sox after coming over at the trade deadline. He was excellent, hitting seven homers to go with a .957 OPS in 41 games. While his bat would be a perfect fit in Boston's lineup, the club already has a crowded outfield that has forced fellow left-handed hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15430" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15430">Masataka Yoshida</a> into DH duties.</p><p>The Reds would represent a homecoming for Schwarber, who was born in nearby Middletown, Ohio. They're in need of a power bat after they only had two players hit more than 20 homers in 2015. Schwarber would most likely require Cincinnati to blow past its franchise record for a free-agent deal, which is currently the four-year, $64-million contract it gave Mike Moustakas in 2019.</p><p>The Mets are trying to remake a club that disappointingly missed the playoffs. New York is in need of an impact bat after trading away outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>. First baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a> may also depart via free agency this winter.</p><p>The Giants are currently projected to start top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18787" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18787">Bryce Eldridge</a> at DH with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> at first. The club could use more power in its lineup after finishing 19th in baseball in homers this year.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 19: Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies celebrates in the dugout after scoring on an RBI double by Max Kepler #17 in the third inning against the Miami Marlins at Citizens Bank Park on April 19, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Phillies, Red Sox, Mets, Reds, Giants in mix for Schwarber

Devin Williams is taking his talents across town.   The right-handed reliever agreed to a three-y...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> is taking his talents across town. </p><p>The right-handed reliever agreed to a three-year deal with the New York Mets on Monday worth $51 million guaranteed, sources told <a href="https://x.com/WillSammon/status/1995684299392401539">Will Sammon of The Athletic</a>. The deal doesn't contain any opt outs or options.</p><p>Williams spent the first six seasons of his major-league career with the Milwaukee Brewers where he was a two-time All-Star, NL Rookie of the Year, and one of the most dominant closers in the sport. He pitched last season for the New York Yankees, where he struggled at times and was removed from the closer's role in July after posting a 5.01 ERA over his first 41 1/3 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 31-year-old pitched well down the stretch for the Yankees, however. He posted a 2.50 ERA, 0.36 FIP, and 34 strikeouts across 18 innings. Williams was used primarily in a setup role over the final two months, logging eight holds. He didn't allow a run over his final nine regular-season appearances. </p><p>Williams will likely slide into the closer's role for now, and will serve as insurance should the Mets be unable to re-sign star reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a>. The right-hander is the top reliever on the open market and is expected to command a deal worth nearly $100 million. Even despite Williams' $17-million average annual value, the Mets are still interested in bringing back Díaz, a source told <a href="https://x.com/AnthonyDiComo/status/1995682464375959974">Anthony DiComo of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>The signing of Williams represents the second major move for David Stearns this winter as he attempts to retool a team that missed the postseason in 2025. Stearns traded long-time outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a> to the Texas Rangers last month for second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a>. </p><p>Williams is the third prominent reliever to sign this winter. Former Mets right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a> inked a two-year, $28-million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4809" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4809">Raisel Iglesias</a> signed a one-year, $16-million contract to remain with the Atlanta Braves. </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 29: Devin Williams #38 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium on July 29, 2025 in New York City.

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Report: Mets, Devin Williams agree to 3-year, $51M contract

The Chicago Cubs added some bullpen help Friday, agreeing to a two-year contract with right-hande...

<p>The Chicago Cubs added some bullpen help Friday, agreeing to a two-year contract with right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8432" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8432">Phil Maton</a>, a source told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6828011/2025/11/21/phil-maton-cubs-contract/">Will Sammon of The Athletic</a>. </p><p>Terms of the deal, which contains a 2028 club option, have not been reported.</p><p>Maton split last season between the St. Louis Cardinals and Texas Rangers. He posted a 2.79 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 81 strikeouts over 61 1/3 innings between the two clubs. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old has put together a nice nine-year career despite bouncing around in recent seasons, as the Cubs represent his fifth organization since 2023. Maton owns a 3.15 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 10.1 K/9, 0.8 HR/9 in 202 games over the last three seasons. </p><p>While Maton doesn't light up the radar gun - his cutter averaged 90.6 mph last season - he managed to rank 99th percentile in average exit velocity and hard-hit rate, 98th percentile in whiff rate, and 95th percentile in strikeout rate, per <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/phil-maton-664208?stats=statcast-r-pitching-mlb">Baseball Savant</a>. Maton did post a 3.38 BB/9 but countered that by posting the 14th-best HR/9 (0.44) among qualified relievers. </p><p>Maton's signing represents the first major addition to a Cubs' bullpen that's seen a number of departures to open the offseason. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8129" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8129">Brad Keller</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2077">Drew Pomeranz</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3466" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3466">Caleb Thielbar</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1813" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1813">Ryan Brasier</a> are free agents, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5892" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5892">Andrew Kittredge</a> was traded to the Baltimore Orioles. </p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 21: Phil Maton #88 of the Texas Rangers pitches during the ninth inning against the Miami Marlins at Globe Life Field on September 21, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Cubs agree to 2-year deal with Phil Maton 

A rain-soaked track made for a chaotic qualifying session Friday at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.   C...

<p>A rain-soaked track made for a chaotic qualifying session Friday at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. </p><p>Championship leader Lando Norris took another step toward winning his first drivers' title by claiming pole position with an incredible lap time of 1:47.934 on his final trip around the circuit in Q3.</p><p>"It was stressful, stressful as hell," Norris said. "It's so slippery out there." </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>It's Norris' first career pole in Las Vegas and seventh pole of the season, tying him with Max Verstappen for most in 2025.</p><p>Verstappen will start Saturday's race alongside Norris at the front of the grid in second. The forecast for the race is expected to be clear. </p><p>"It was really, really slippery," Verstappen said. "It's not fun, I can tell you that. I like to drive in the wet, but this was like driving on ice - it took a long time to get the tires to work." </p><p>Oscar Piastri, who entered the weekend 24 points back of his McLaren teammate, qualified more than a second behind Norris and will start fifth. Piastri hasn't finished on the podium since Sept. 7 in Monza.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Las Vegas GP Qualifying 🇺🇸" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5CbUm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5CbUm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="854" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Norris cannot clinch the drivers' title in Las Vegas, but can win it as soon as the Qatar sprint race, depending on Saturday's result. </p><p>Lewis Hamilton's struggles continued. The Ferrari driver was bounced in Q1 and qualified 20th - his worst performance since 2017.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨 LEWIS HAMILTON HAS QUALIFIED 20TH FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE BRAZIL 2017<br><br>(Not counting DSQs) <a href="https://t.co/Xu1FeDHU9u">pic.twitter.com/Xu1FeDHU9u</a></p>— Daniel Valente 🏎️ (@F1GuyDan) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1GuyDan/status/1992086034218156289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"Couldn't get the tires to work," Hamilton said over team radio. </p><p>George Russell won the Las Vegas Grand Prix last season when Mercedes finished 1-2. </p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 21: Pole position qualifier Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren receives his Pirelli Pole Position award from Louis Tomlinson during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Las Vegas at Las Vegas Strip Circuit on November 21, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Norris takes chaotic pole position at rainy Vegas GP

MLB teams had until 5 p.m. ET on Friday to tender contracts to arbitration-eligible players. Play...

BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 25: Boston Red Sox first base Nathaniel Lowe (37) walks to first base during the game between the Boston Red Sox and the Baltimore Orioles on August 25, 2025 at Orioles Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, MD.

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MLB non-tender deadline tracker

Reigning two-time AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal is set to enter his final season under team con...

<p>Reigning two-time AL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a> is set to enter his final season under team control before reaching free agency. The Detroit Tigers have said they would love to sign the left-hander long term, but there's reportedly a significant gap between the two sides. Skubal is expected to set the new record for a pitcher when he signs his next deal. With the clock ticking on Skubal's free agency, our editors Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb and Brandon Wile debate whether the Tigers should trade their ace this winter.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805118/cropped_GettyImages-2240351607.jpg?ts=1760148033" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805118/w220xh124_GettyImages-2240351607.jpg?ts=1760148033 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805118/w320xh180_GettyImages-2240351607.jpg?ts=1760148033 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805118/w640xh360_GettyImages-2240351607.jpg?ts=1760148033 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805118/w768xh432_GettyImages-2240351607.jpg?ts=1760148033 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805118/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2240351607.jpg?ts=1760148033 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alika Jenner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>No: </strong>Why are we even having this conversation? The very thought of trading the AL's best pitcher at the peak of his powers would be silly for any team, but especially for Detroit.</p><p>The Tigers recently emerged from a decade-long rebuild that netted the franchise a pair of first overall picks. The players they chose with those picks, Casey Mize and Spencer Torkelson, turned into solid contributors. Yet it's Skubal, an unheralded ninth-round selection out of Seattle University in 2018, who's become the homegrown face of the franchise.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Skubal's two Cy Young Awards over the last two seasons don't begin to tell the story. The 28-year-old has transformed Detroit back into a baseball town, leading the Tigers to consecutive playoff berths. The team hasn't advanced beyond the division series, but Skubal's performed brilliantly on the biggest stage, putting up a 2.04 ERA over his six postseason starts.</p><p>So why would you give up a guy like this? Even if the Tigers traded Skubal for a king's ransom that kept them in contention, the mere act of dealing him away would send a terrible message to the players left behind, the fan base, and even star manager A.J. Hinch. It would be unfathomable, and it would take the Tigers out of the running for any big-name free agents.</p><p>And it's not like the Tigers can't afford to re-sign Skubal, even though they <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3373174" href="https://thescore.com/news/3373174">reportedly</a> lowballed him last winter. Detroit routinely fielded top-five payrolls in the 2010s when the team's star-studded rosters were regularly in the postseason. Though Max Scherzer walked away, the Tigers spent big at the time to ensure that Justin Verlander and Miguel Cabrera stayed in town and even landed Prince Fielder on a nine-year deal in 2012. Owner Chris Ilitch can meet Skubal's price if he wants to.</p><p>The Tigers are a historic franchise with a track record of spending and a talented roster that plays in a very winnable division. Keeping Skubal would ensure a franchise icon stays put, help them potentially own the AL Central for the next half-decade, and send a message to other free agents that they're ready and able to spend on a winner. This is a no-brainer. Skubal should be wearing the Olde English D for as long as possible. <em>- Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805419/cropped_GettyImages-2208190892.jpg?ts=1760373309" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805419/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208190892.jpg?ts=1760373309 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805419/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208190892.jpg?ts=1760373309 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805419/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208190892.jpg?ts=1760373309 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805419/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208190892.jpg?ts=1760373309 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805419/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208190892.jpg?ts=1760373309 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Yes: </strong>In a perfect world, Skubal signs an extension and is a Tiger for life. But it doesn't appear that it's going to play out that way. Detroit president of baseball operations Scott Harris must have a pretty good idea of what it will take to extend Skubal, and if the Tigers' front office isn't willing to make a competitive offer, it's best to maximize the return for their ace rather than risk losing him for nothing.</p><p>Even rostering Skubal going into the season and maybe flipping him at the deadline is too risky. Not only is there a real threat of injury, but there's no way Skubal's value will be any higher than it is right now.</p><p>Skubal is arguably the heart and soul of this Tigers team. He's their best pitcher, and he's been the key cog in Detroit reaching the postseason two years in a row. Trading a player of that ilk isn't easy, and the front office would have to land a significant package in order to justify the move to the fan base - not to mention the clubhouse.</p><p>The Tigers haven't really spent big since Mike Ilitch's passing. Though they operated with their highest payroll in 2025 in eight years ($145 million), that's not close to the $200-million payrolls they carried in 2016 and 2017. Instead, the club focused on drafting and developing. Now the organization has a solid nucleus in place and a lot of payroll flexibility. The franchise could afford to drop significant money on Skubal, but the team might be better off selling high and then spreading that money around to address the numerous holes on the roster. This would, in theory, give the club a better shot at extending its current competitive window.</p><p>Detroit possesses the No. 6-ranked farm system according to MLB.com, but it's heavy on position players at the top end. Trading Skubal for a package of young and controllable pitchers makes a lot of sense. Harris could also reinvest the roughly $18 million Skubal is set to earn in arbitration this winter to sign a free-agent starter.</p><p>Skubal should have a strong market - even on an expiring deal - as teams that want to sign him next winter will also want a full season to sell him on their club.</p><p>It's not a perfect example, but the San Diego Padres were able to trade Juan Soto - in the final year of his deal - and Trent Grisham to the New York Yankees for Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Jhony Brito, Randy Vásquez, and Kyle Higashioka. The Padres then packaged Thorpe in another deal to acquire Dylan Cease from the Chicago White Sox. The Tigers have already seen that Skubal can only take them so far in the postseason, and they need more star power and depth to take the next step.</p><p>We've seen too many mid- to smaller-market teams mishandle their assets. Trading Skubal would hurt in the short term, but if the Tigers are convinced he's leaving next winter regardless, capitalizing on his trade market is a must in order to extend the club's competitive window. Just look at how the Angels mishandled Shohei Ohtani's final year of free agency and imagine how different that organization might look now if it had traded its greatest asset instead of letting him walk for a compensation draft pick. If the Tigers aren't going to pay Skubal, now is the time to pull the trigger on a trade. <em>- Wile </em></p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 23: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during the sixth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 23, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Should the Tigers trade Tarik Skubal?

The Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Angels pulled off an early contender for surprise trade of ...

<p>The Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Angels pulled off an early contender for surprise trade of the offseason on Tuesday.</p><p>Baltimore dealt right-handed starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a> to Los Angeles for outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5431" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5431">Taylor Ward</a>. </p><p>The Orioles entered the winter in desperate need of rotation help, but ended up trading away one of their best young starters who has four years of team control remaining.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rodriguez, 26, posted a 3.86 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 130 strikeouts across 116 2/3 innings (20 starts) in 2024. However, he missed the entire 2025 season while dealing with elbow inflammation and a lat strain. He underwent season-ending elbow surgery in August, but is expected to be ready for the start of 2026.</p><p>Adding Rodriguez is a solid start for a Los Angeles team that also entered the offseason in need of starting pitching. He joins an Angels rotation that's headlined by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10619" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10619">Yusei Kikuchi</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12589" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12589">José Soriano</a>, but features a number of question marks after that.</p><p>Rodriguez now gets a chance to restart his career in Anaheim, albeit with an Angels organization that hasn't had much success developing pitchers or keeping them healthy in recent years. The Halos haven't had a starter throw more than 180 innings since 2017, and have had just two Cy Young winners since 1961.</p><p>It was expected that Los Angeles would deal either Ward or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9561" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9561">Jo Adell</a> this winter to clear space, and help address its starting pitching needs. With Adell being the cheaper of the two outfielders and having an additional year of team control, Ward became the odd man out.</p><p>Ward is coming off one of the best seasons of his eight-year career. He hit 31 doubles, a career-high 36 home runs, and slashed .228/.317/.475 with a .792 OPS across 157 games. The 31-year-old appeared in 153 games in left field, and also has experience in right field. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ZbwyG" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ZbwyG/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="140" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Acquiring Ward seems like a gamble for Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias. While he does bring some much-needed power to a team that didn't have a single player hit more than 17 homers in 2025, he only has one year of arbitration eligibility left before becoming a free agent. Ward also doesn't grade out as a great defender, and is coming off a season in which he posted a 26.4 K% - the ninth-worst among qualified AL outfielders.</p><p>The Orioles now have seven outfielders on their 40-man roster, and a number of their top-10 prospects also play the outfield. </p><p>Baltimore's been active to start the offseason, having also acquired reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5892" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5892">Andrew Kittredge</a> and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5706" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5706">Leody Taveras</a> this month. Those new additions are expected to add roughly $25 million to the team's 2026 payroll depending on Ward's final arbitration number, which is projected to be $13.7 million, per <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2026.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 16: Taylor Ward #3 of the Los Angeles Angels bats against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on August 16, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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Angels trade Ward to Orioles for Grayson Rodriguez

Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh put together two historic seasons, but only one player will be reward...

<p>Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh put together two historic seasons, but only one player will be rewarded for his efforts Thursday (7 p.m. ET) when the BBWAA announces the winner of the American League MVP. Will Raleigh become the first Seattle Mariner since Ichiro Suzuki in 2001 to take home the award, or will Judge join exclusive company as the eighth player in MLB history to win at least three MVP titles? Our MLB editors Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb and Brandon Wile make their case for who should win in 2025:</p><h3>Why Raleigh should win MVP?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/cropped_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w220xh124_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w320xh180_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w640xh360_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w768xh432_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801612/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2235828870.jpg?ts=1758068850 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Squire / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Let's get this out of the way: supporting Raleigh for AL MVP is <em>not</em> a knock against Judge, nor is it a sign of voter fatigue. Judge may be the greatest right-handed hitter we'll ever see, and he produced another tremendous season. It's just bad luck for him that Raleigh had the year he did at the same time.</p><p>First, we'll go to the basis of Raleigh's MVP case. He hit 60 home runs in 2025, marking the 10th 60-homer season in MLB history and the fourth accomplished outside the "steroid era" between 1998 and 2001. The 28-year-old also set a single-season home-run record for switch-hitters, beating Mickey Mantle's 54 long balls in 1961. Plus, Raleigh led the AL in RBIs with 125.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>On its own, that's a remarkable and award-worthy feat. And then you realize that Raleigh hit 60 homers as an everyday catcher.</p><p>Catchers aren't supposed to do all that. The best offensive backstops in history never came close to this kind of power number due to the demands and physical toll the position takes on the body. Yet Raleigh shattered expectations, not only breaking the single-season home-run mark by a primary catcher by being the first ever to hit 50 - let alone 60 - but he also became the first backstop to record at least 80 extra-base hits. All the while, he shepherded the Mariners' top-tier pitching staff every day and didn't allow a passed ball in 1,072 innings behind the plate. That's jaw-dropping stuff.</p><p>Now, we must acknowledge here that Raleigh started 38 games at DH to get him some rest and keep his bat in the lineup. But if you look at his splits, you'll see that he hit <em>better</em> on days he was catching. That should weigh heavily in his favor.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-xZnSf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/xZnSf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="114" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Raleigh's 49 homers while playing catcher were seven more than the previous record. But we can dig even deeper. Before this year, only two primary catchers hit 45-plus homers in a season: Johnny Bench recorded 45 in 1970, and Salvador Perez had 48 in 2021. Let's put their positional homer splits alongside Raleigh's 2025 splits. Just for fun, we also added Bench's 40-homer 1972 season to the table.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ROoKZ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ROoKZ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="234" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Raleigh's clearly not the only power-hitting catcher who's added to his home-run totals at other positions. And in case you're wondering, Bench won NL MVP in 1970 and '72, with no controversy over him playing different positions. Had there been a DH back then, there's no doubt that Bench would've used the spot to get rest and pad his totals.</p><p>Another point that critics of Raleigh pick at is his .247 batting average, which would be the lowest ever for an MVP hitter. However, the number hardly disqualifies him. Seven players have gone on to win MVP despite hitting below .275 during the season, and several of those years are now considered historic. Shohei Ohtani's .257 average in 2021 is the lowest for an MVP-winning hitter, and voters rightly ignored that stat because of his unprecedented two-way performance.</p><p>But take a look at some of the other campaigns on this list. Bench hit .270 with 40 homers during his 1972 MVP season behind the plate. Yogi Berra won in 1955 while hitting .272 as a catcher, during an era when batting average was a far more meaningful statistic. And then there's 1961 AL MVP Roger Maris, who bested teammate Mickey Mantle despite hitting just .269. Maris' 61 homers and AL-best 141 RBIs were enough to beat out Mantle's superior stats in other categories. Sound familiar?</p><p>Again, none of this should downplay Judge's 2025. However, he didn't deliver a true season for the ages while catching every day and guiding one of baseball's best pitching staffs to excellence. Raleigh accomplished something truly unique, and there's enough precedent to justify him winning MVP. <em>- Sharkey-Gotlieb</em></p><h3>Why Aaron Judge should win MVP?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809625/cropped_GettyImages-2239465340.jpg?ts=1762921347" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809625/w220xh124_GettyImages-2239465340.jpg?ts=1762921347 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809625/w320xh180_GettyImages-2239465340.jpg?ts=1762921347 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809625/w640xh360_GettyImages-2239465340.jpg?ts=1762921347 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809625/w768xh432_GettyImages-2239465340.jpg?ts=1762921347 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809625/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2239465340.jpg?ts=1762921347 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">New York Yankees / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's no disputing that Raleigh had the best season ever for a catcher, but it wasn't better than Judge's campaign. This award is about determining the most valuable player overall, rather than the best at an individual position.</p><p>The Yankees outfielder led MLB in average, on-base percentage, slugging, OPS, and fWAR. He's only the sixth player to top MLB in all triple slash categories since 1943.</p><p>Judge won the batting crown by .020, led the league in OBP by .058 and slugging by .066, and recorded an OPS .131 higher than Ohtani, who finished second. Judge didn't just lead every category; he crushed every great hitter this season. That's almost hard to comprehend.</p><p>If we compare Judge to Raleigh offensively, the two players aren't even close. Raleigh outhomered Judge by seven, but the Yankees slugger still finished fourth in the majors with 53 home runs - a mark that's only been reached 36 times in MLB history. Judge also received 55 fewer at-bats than Raleigh, in part because he drew 124 walks, including an MLB-leading 36 intentional walks, compared to Raleigh's 17. The opposing managers told you who the more imposing hitter was.</p><p>Judge finished with an OPS that was .197 points better than Raleigh's, and his 204 wRC+ ranked as the ninth-highest mark since 1961. Seven of the eight players who have posted at least a 200 wRC+ won the MVP that season, with the exception being Mark McGwire, who finished second in 1998.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-maxbq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/maxbq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="403" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Of course, the MVP isn't the best offensive player award, and defense is where many people lean toward Raleigh. Being a catcher is one of baseball's most underappreciated jobs, and Raleigh deserves enormous credit for the work he's done behind the plate and with the pitching staff. However, that shouldn't discredit the value Judge brought defensively.</p><p>An elbow flexor strain limited Judge to 95 games in right field and forced him to only DH for all of August. When he was in the outfield, Judge remained one of the best defensively at his position, ranking in the 86th percentile in outs above average, 85th percentile in arm strength, and 84th percentile in arm value, according to Baseball Savant. He also finished with three defensive runs saved, which isn't an elite number but illustrates that he was a positive presence with the glove.</p><p>Additionally, Judge deserves credit for playing through a pretty debilitating elbow injury. He missed only the minimum time on the IL, and even though he returned as the DH for a month, he slashed .305/.473/.634 with 16 home runs in 34 games with a bad elbow. Judge also played 15 of the Yankees' final 22 regular-season contests while injured in the outfield to help get Giancarlo Stanton's bat in the lineup.</p><p>When New York struggled in June and July, Judge kept them afloat, slashing .267/.396/.621. Then he posted a 1.546 OPS over the final three weeks of the season as the Yankees tried chasing down the Blue Jays to win the AL East title. Judge had an OPS over 1.000 in four of the six months and didn't see it dip below .923 in the other two. Meanwhile, Raleigh hit .194 in July and .173 in August.</p><p>Judge was the best and most consistent player throughout the season. Although Raleigh reached feats that no catcher has ever achieved, Judge accomplished things that few players in the history of the game have ever done, regardless of position. He should wake up Friday morning as a three-time AL MVP. <em>- Wile</em></p>

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Judge vs. Raleigh: Who should win AL MVP?

Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz was named 2025 American League Rookie of the Year on Monday af...

<p>Athletics first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18799">Nick Kurtz</a> was named 2025 American League Rookie of the Year on Monday after receiving all 30 first-place votes from members of the BBWAA. </p><p>Athletics shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17378">Jacob Wilson</a> finished second, while Boston Red Sox outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17320" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17320">Roman Anthony</a> came in third. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="AL Rookie of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SBdr8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SBdr8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="222" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>It's the ninth time in MLB history that teammates finished first and second in Rookie of the Year voting.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 22-year-old Kurtz enjoyed an incredible rookie season, slashing .290/.383/.619 with 36 home runs, 26 doubles, 86 RBIs, and a 1.002 OPS across 117 games. He also led all MLB rookies in runs, homers, RBIs, walks, slugging, OPS, and fWAR. </p><p>"It's a great ending to the first year," Kurtz told MLB Network. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Former ROY Huston Street announces Nick Kurtz as the 2025 American League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year! <a href="https://t.co/wlVhFqjsaD">pic.twitter.com/wlVhFqjsaD</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1988040905492709577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Kurtz, the No. 4 pick in the 2024 draft, becomes the ninth Rookie of the Year in franchise history. He's the franchise's first winner since Andrew Bailey in 2009. Kurtz was also named the AL's Silver Slugger winner at first base earlier this month. </p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Nick Kurtz #16 of the Athletics walks off the field in the top of the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Sutter Health Park on September 26, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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A's Kurtz named unanimous AL Rookie of the Year

One of Japan's most talented pitchers will have the opportunity to pursue a contract in North Ame...

<p>One of Japan's most talented pitchers will have the opportunity to pursue a contract in North America. </p><p>The Seibu Lions announced Monday that they will officially post right-hander Tatsuya Imai this winter in hopes of securing a major-league deal. </p><p>"We decided that now was the right time and allowed him to take on the challenge of MLB," the Lions said in a <a href="https://www.seibulions.jp/news/detail/202500623630.html">statement</a>. "He has consistently expressed a strong desire to play baseball in America, and as a team, we have respected that desire."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Imai will have 45 days to reach an agreement with an MLB team once he's posted, or he'll have to return to the Lions for 2026.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tatsuya Imai will be represented by Scott Boras and his agency, Boras Corporation.</p>— Francys Romero (@francysromeroFR) <a href="https://twitter.com/francysromeroFR/status/1987732868328460560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I'm grateful that they accepted my request," Imai said. </p><p>The 27-year-old has spent his entire nine-year professional career with Seibu. He posted a 1.92 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, and 178 strikeouts in 163 2/3 innings last season. He features a mid-90s fastball, in addition to a slider and splitter. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Now that the trade deadline has passed, MLB talent evaluators often prioritize scouting trips to Japan in August. Seibu Lions RHP Tatsuya Imai is one top priority for them to see; this video from <a href="https://twitter.com/YankeeSource?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YankeeSource</a> illustrates why. <a href="https://t.co/zXJFECxk2K">pic.twitter.com/zXJFECxk2K</a></p>— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/jonmorosi/status/1953302819844341850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>A three-time All-Star in Japan, Imai helped throw a combined no-hitter last season and struck out a franchise-record 17 batters in a game in June. While he has pitched for Japan internationally, he wasn't on the 2023 World Baseball Classic roster.</p><p><a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/46859761/mlb-2025-2026-top-50-free-agents-rankings-contract-projections">ESPN's Kiley McDaniel</a> projects Imai will sign a six-year, $135-million deal, including an additional posting fee that's calculated from a percentage of how much he signs for. That fee is paid to the Lions.</p><p>Imai is expected to be one of the top starting pitchers available this winter. </p>

OSAKA, JAPAN - MARCH 05: Tatsuya Imai #48 of Samurai Japan pitches in the top of the sixth inning during the game between Samurai Japan and Netherlands at Kyocera Dome Osaka on March 05, 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

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Seibu Lions to post top pitcher Tatsuya Imai for MLB teams

Thursday marks the deadline for MLB teams and players to exercise or decline 2026 contract option...

<p>Thursday marks the deadline for MLB teams and players to exercise or decline 2026 contract options. Here's what it means for several notable players who either opted in or out.</p><h3>Shane Bieber</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798542/cropped_GettyImages-2231562486.jpg?ts=1755912547" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798542/w220xh124_GettyImages-2231562486.jpg?ts=1755912547 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798542/w320xh180_GettyImages-2231562486.jpg?ts=1755912547 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798542/w640xh360_GettyImages-2231562486.jpg?ts=1755912547 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798542/w768xh432_GettyImages-2231562486.jpg?ts=1755912547 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/798542/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2231562486.jpg?ts=1755912547 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bieber delivered the first surprise of the offseason Tuesday by exercising his $16-million player option for 2026. Bieber's commitment to Toronto isn't shocking, as he made clear he enjoyed playing for the Blue Jays. Still, the right-hander passing on free agency and accepting a well below-market deal was a major surprise. Bieber's option included a $4-million buyout, meaning he effectively agreed to a one-year, $12-million contract in new money. Some projection models anticipated Bieber to secure $60 million to $100 million or more this winter, following his strong return from Tommy John surgery. Not being attached to a qualifying offer also boosted his appeal compared to other top free-agent starters.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 comparable SP contracts" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CVJ3l" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CVJ3l/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="419" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Retaining Bieber at a modest cost gives the Blue Jays a head start on what's expected to be a busy winter. Starters Kevin Gausman, Bieber, Trey Yesavage, Jose Berrios, Bowden Francis, and Eric Lauer all remain under team control. Bieber's contract essentially replaces Max Scherzer's $15.5-million departing salary, and he now enjoys a full, healthy offseason with a familiar club. An extension is possible, although the sides aren't reportedly discussing it. Toronto rolled the dice acquiring Bieber at the deadline after his surgery, but that deal couldn't look better now.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Alex Bregman </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797261/cropped_GettyImages-2229634373.jpg?ts=1754973546" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797261/w220xh124_GettyImages-2229634373.jpg?ts=1754973546 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797261/w320xh180_GettyImages-2229634373.jpg?ts=1754973546 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797261/w640xh360_GettyImages-2229634373.jpg?ts=1754973546 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797261/w768xh432_GettyImages-2229634373.jpg?ts=1754973546 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797261/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2229634373.jpg?ts=1754973546 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Houston Astros / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bregman hits the open market seeking a long-term contract for a second straight offseason - but this time he's not tied to a qualifying offer. He proved an ideal fit in Boston, both on the field and in the clubhouse. The 31-year-old should have a strong market given the lack of difference-making position players available, although securing the five- or six-year contract he desires isn't a guarantee.</p><p>Bregman recorded 18 home runs, 29 doubles, and put up a .821 OPS - his highest mark since 2019. However, he appeared in only 114 games and posted a .727 OPS after the All-Star break. He notably hit better on the road than at Fenway Park, a point he'll likely make as part of his pitch to other teams. Last winter, Bregman settled on a short-term, high-dollar contract that included opt-outs to reestablish his value. He'll be hoping to follow a similar framework to that of third baseman Matt Chapman, who initially signed a three-year deal with the San Francisco Giants containing two opt-outs before inking a lucrative extension.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-bHIrY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/bHIrY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="480" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>It wouldn't be shocking to see Bregman remain in Boston and continue mentoring a young core. But the Red Sox - like a number of other teams - might be scared to commit significant dollars and years to a third baseman entering his age-32 season. Still, it would be quite the turn of events if Boston let Bregman walk after trading Rafael Devers away to make room for him at third base.</p><h3>Trevor Story</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794258/cropped_GettyImages-2223830690.jpg?ts=1752511841" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794258/w220xh124_GettyImages-2223830690.jpg?ts=1752511841 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794258/w320xh180_GettyImages-2223830690.jpg?ts=1752511841 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794258/w640xh360_GettyImages-2223830690.jpg?ts=1752511841 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794258/w768xh432_GettyImages-2223830690.jpg?ts=1752511841 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794258/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2223830690.jpg?ts=1752511841 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Layton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>While one member of the left side of the Red Sox infield departed, another stayed. Story decided not to opt out of the final two years and $55 million remaining on his deal. Injuries limited him to 163 games across his first three seasons in Boston, but he played in 157 contests this past campaign. The 32-year-old put together a strong 2025, hitting 25 home runs to go with 31 stolen bases and a .741 OPS.</p><p>Given the lack of shortstop depth available, Story likely would've surpassed the total dollars remaining on his deal if he opted for free agency, though he probably would have needed to accept a lower AAV. Instead, Story chose to stay with the Red Sox, reportedly appreciating the club's direction. Part of him might also feel like he owes the franchise after missing so much time in the early part of his contract.</p><h3>Edwin Díaz</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800181/cropped_GettyImages-2233930955.jpg?ts=1757126797" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800181/w220xh124_GettyImages-2233930955.jpg?ts=1757126797 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800181/w320xh180_GettyImages-2233930955.jpg?ts=1757126797 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800181/w640xh360_GettyImages-2233930955.jpg?ts=1757126797 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800181/w768xh432_GettyImages-2233930955.jpg?ts=1757126797 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800181/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2233930955.jpg?ts=1757126797 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Mowry / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Díaz will hope to cash in again in free agency and take advantage of a dismal relief class. The right-hander quietly put together the second-best season of his career, accruing a 1.63 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, and 98 strikeouts across 66 1/3 innings. Even heading into his age-32 season, Díaz remains one of baseball's elite closers, grading in the 99th percentile in K%, whiff rate, and xERA.</p><p>He allowed a run in only eight of his 62 appearances in 2025 while surrendering just four homers. Díaz opting out of the final two years and $38 million left on his deal isn't much of a surprise, considering he could surpass his own record (5 years, $102M) for the richest contract for a reliever in MLB history. If he can't find those dollars, Díaz may seek a deal similar to Josh Hader's (5 years, $95M) or Tanner Scott's (4 years, $72M), though both were younger. Regardless of what Díaz signs for, the pact will be worth significantly more than what he left on the table by opting out. After Díaz and Robert Suarez, the free-agent reliever market drops off significantly in talent.</p><h3>Pete Alonso</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794480/cropped_GettyImages-2207907029.jpg?ts=1755044865" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794480/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207907029.jpg?ts=1755044865 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794480/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207907029.jpg?ts=1755044865 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794480/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207907029.jpg?ts=1755044865 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794480/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207907029.jpg?ts=1755044865 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794480/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207907029.jpg?ts=1755044865 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Alonso is entering the market for a second straight winter, hoping he's viewed more favorably across the league after settling for a prove-it deal with the Mets. The 30-year-old followed up with another excellent campaign, hitting 38 home runs, 41 doubles, and recording a .871 OPS while playing in all 162 games for the second consecutive season. He also lowered his strikeout rate to 22.8% and posted the second-best wRC+ (141) and slugging percentage (.524) of his career.</p><p>Signing any slugging first baseman in his 30s can be a terrifying thought - just ask the Baltimore Orioles - but Alonso isn't showing signs of decline. His hard-hit percentage, bat speed, and exit velocity all remain elite. Though not a fast or gifted defender, Alonso provides an impact bat for the middle of any lineup. While he won't approach the six-year, $162-million deal Freddie Freeman signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Alonso should benefit from not being attached to a qualifying offer and command north of $100 million.</p><h3>Shota Imanaga </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744579/cropped_GettyImages-2170590034.jpg?ts=1726032386" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744579/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170590034.jpg?ts=1726032386 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744579/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170590034.jpg?ts=1726032386 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744579/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170590034.jpg?ts=1726032386 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744579/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170590034.jpg?ts=1726032386 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744579/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170590034.jpg?ts=1726032386 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Imanaga's four-year, $53-million contract signed prior to the 2024 season seemed like a steal, but a second-half free fall in 2025 led the Cubs to decline the remaining years on his contract and allow the left-hander to hit free agency. The 32-year-old outperformed some underlying metrics over his first 13 starts in 2025 (2.40 ERA/4.35 FIP), but things unraveled post-All-Star break as he recorded a 4.70 ERA over his final 13 starts, surrendering 20 home runs in 76 2/3 innings.</p><p>The question is whether a hamstring strain that sidelined Imanaga for nearly two months was a driving factor in his struggles, or whether the league adjusted to a low 90s fastball and a pitching arsenal that doesn't miss many bats. Maybe it was a combination of all those factors. However, it comes as a bit of a surprise that the Cubs, who desperately need starting pitching, weren't willing to pay a relatively modest cost to keep Imanaga in the back end of the rotation. Chicago clearly believes it can find a more valuable arm for that money. Imanaga should generate enough interest this winter and aim to land in a bigger ballpark where his 54.5% flyball rate plays better than it does at Wrigley Field.</p><h3>Salvador Perez</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748957/cropped_GettyImages-2176698021.jpg?ts=1728340079" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748957/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176698021.jpg?ts=1728340079 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748957/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176698021.jpg?ts=1728340079 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748957/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176698021.jpg?ts=1728340079 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748957/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176698021.jpg?ts=1728340079 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748957/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176698021.jpg?ts=1728340079 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jess Rapfogel / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It looks like Perez will play out the rest of his career in Kansas City, and that's a good thing. He signed a two-year, $25-million extension that takes him through his age-37 season. The five-time Gold Glove winner has been catching less and designated hitting more, so expect that trend to continue. Perez represents a strong veteran presence and great leadership, and he remains productive at the plate. He's coming off a 30-homer season and posted the fourth-best slugging percentage (.446) among qualified catchers. Perez sits 15 home runs away from tying George Brett for the most in franchise history and is destined for the Royals' Hall of Fame.</p>

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Takeaways from Bieber, Bregman, Alonso, other stars' contract options

theScore provides analysis and insights from Game 7 of the World Series. We break down everything...

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Relive Dodgers' wild comeback win in Game 7 of World Series

The Toronto Blue Jays lost Game 6 of the World Series in dramatic fashion.   Trailing 3-1 in the ...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays lost Game 6 of the World Series in dramatic fashion. </p><p>Trailing 3-1 in the ninth inning, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14202">Addison Barger</a> ripped a double that got lodged between the outfield fence and the turf. Barger and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8938" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8938">Myles Straw</a> came around to score, but were returned to their bases after the umpire signaled a ground-rule double due to the ball being lodged in the fence.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">DON'T COUNT OUT THE <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLUEJAYS</a>!<br><br>Two runners in scoring position with no outs in the 9th 👀 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a> <a href="https://t.co/e5G6JRyN8M">pic.twitter.com/e5G6JRyN8M</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1984457330759532776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"That's such a hard wall, so it's very impressive that the ball stuck in there," Blue Jays outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9524" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9524">Daulton Varsho</a> said. "That's probably the only spot where it could have possibly gotten stuck."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Blue Jays challenged the play the but call was upheld. </p><blockquote><p>If a fair ball gets lodged in the outfield wall padding it is a ground-rule double. On all ground-rule doubles, the ball is dead, the batter-runner goes to second and all additional runners are permitted to move up two bases from the one they occupied at the time of the pitch.</p></blockquote><p>"Been here a long time, haven't seen a ball get lodged ever," Blue Jays manager John Schneider said. "Just caught a tough break there."</p><p>Despite the unfortunate bounce, the Blue Jays still had runners at second, and third with no outs. Toronto had a 43% chance of winning the game at that point, according to <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/gamefeed?date=10/31/2025&amp;gamePk=813025&amp;chartType=pitch&amp;legendType=pitchName&amp;playerType=pitcher&amp;inning=&amp;count=&amp;pitchHand=&amp;batSide=&amp;descFilter=&amp;ptFilter=&amp;resultFilter=&amp;hf=winProbability&amp;sportId=1&amp;liveAb=#813025">Baseball Savant.</a> </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a> came out of the 'pen to relieve <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a> and got <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10877">Ernie Clement</a> to pop out. Barger was then doubled off second base by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2444" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2444">Kiké Hernández</a> on an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> line out to left field to end the game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="ht" dir="ltr">KIKÉ, DO YOU LOVE ME?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WORLDSERIES?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WORLDSERIES</a> <a href="https://t.co/WQx5nFbdXa">pic.twitter.com/WQx5nFbdXa</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1984459316246507550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"Obviously, on the play I got doubled up I was being too aggressive," Barger said. "Trying to score, try to tie up that game if the ball drops. He got a good read on the ball and made a good play." </p><p>Hernández said following the win that he was playing more shallow defensively than what was suggested on his defensive positioning card because the left-handed hitting Giménez's power is more to the pull side.</p><p>“Somehow I was able to hear that the bat broke, even with that crowd," Hernández told <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/1984466892040360346">Fox Sports</a>. "The crazy thing is I had no idea where the ball was cause it was in the lights the whole time.”</p><p>Schneider gave credit to the Dodgers' defense for making the deciding play. </p><p>"It's a tough read," Schneider said. "Kiké playing shallow and one out you're thinking score. He made a really good play. It's such a tweener. He made a good play, good throw. Good play by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">(Miguel) Rojas</a> too. Wild. Wild way to finish it, for sure."</p><p>The Blue Jays finished 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position.</p><p>Game 7 goes Saturday at 8 p.m. ET. It's the first winner-take-all game to decide the World Series since 2019. </p>

TORONTO, ONTARIO - OCTOBER 31: Miguel Rojas #72 of the Los Angeles Dodgers forces out Addison Barger #47 of the Toronto Blue Jays to win the game 3-1 in game six of the 2025 World Series at Rogers Center on October 31, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

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Barger: 'I was being too aggressive' on game-ending double play

theScore provides analysis and insights for Game 6 of the World Series. We break down everything ...

<p><em>theScore provides analysis </em><em>and insights for Game 6 of the World Series. We break down everything from the Los Angeles Dodgers' dramatic 3-1 win over the Toronto Blue Jays.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-MPH62" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/MPH62/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="141" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>9th inning: </strong>The Dodgers somehow survive to force a Game 7. Everything that could go wrong did for the Blue Jays, who somehow don't score a run despite starting the inning by putting two runners in scoring position with no outs. Kiké Hernández makes an incredible game-ending play to double off Addison Barger at second base. It's unacceptable for Barger to get doubled off there with the play entirely in front of him. Toronto will wonder how it lost this game, and it could come back to haunt the Jays if they lose Saturday. It will be the first World Series Game 7 since 2019.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GAME ENDING DOUBLE PLAY! THERE WILL BE A GAME SEVEN TOMORROW NIGHT! <a href="https://t.co/dtWrxULKEG">pic.twitter.com/dtWrxULKEG</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1984458605119344931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>9th inning:</strong> Wow. The Blue Jays get some unbelievably bad luck as Addison Barger's rocket double gets wedged in the bottom of the wall and the umpires call it a ground-rule double. It's a smart play by center fielder Justin Dean to put his hands up immediately to signal the ball is stuck and not try to play it. The Blue Jays have the tying run on second base with no outs as Tyler Glasnow gets the ball in the ninth. Buckle up.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">BARGER WITH A DOUBLE!!<br><br>Dead ball was called on the field and lead runner stops at 3rd.<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a> on FOX <a href="https://t.co/Z39KrA3I5H">pic.twitter.com/Z39KrA3I5H</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1984457186735775962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>8th inning:</strong> Roki Sasaki survives the biggest test of his major-league career. Pitching for just the second time in 14 days, the right-hander works around a George Springer single and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. walk to keep the Dodgers' two-run lead intact. Credit to Will Smith for blocking a number of balls in the dirt to keep the runners from advancing. Sasaki got just two whiffs on 25 pitches, so we'll see if he comes back out for the ninth. Toronto is 1-for-7 with RISP.</p><p><strong>8th inning:</strong> It hasn't exactly been dominant, but the Blue Jays' bullpen is keeping them in the game. Seranthony Domínguez strikes out Teoscar Hernández with the bases loaded to keep it a two-run game. Toronto's bullpen has a 2.81 ERA with 26 strikeouts in 25 2/3 innings this World Series. Roki Sasaki gets the top of the order needing six outs to reach a Game 7.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Seranthony Domínguez gets out of the bases loaded jam and the Blue Jays bring the top of their lineup to the plate in the 8th!<br><br>📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a> on FOX <a href="https://t.co/GFKgjtuv59">pic.twitter.com/GFKgjtuv59</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1984449813006729536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>7th inning:</strong> Yoshinobu Yamamoto will not throw a third straight complete game as Dave Roberts goes to rookie left-hander Justin Wrobleski. Yamamoto dealt with some traffic in the sixth inning, but it's still a surprise to see Roberts not try to squeeze one more inning out of his ace. Wrobleski's been a bit of a hidden gem this World Series for Roberts, throwing 3 2/3 shutout innings. It's a wonder why John Schneider didn't go to his bench to hit for Andrés Giménez against a lefty there. Expect Roki Sasaki, who's warming in the 'pen, to try to get the final six outs. The right-hander won't get a warm welcome after he spurned the Jays over the offseason.</p><p><strong>7th inning: </strong>Kevin Gausman delivers another excellent World Series start in which you look up and question how the Blue Jays are trailing. The right-hander allowed three runs on three hits with two walks while striking out eight. He owns a 4.26 ERA in two World Series starts despite a 0.71 WHIP and .156 opponent average. It's a shame Toronto couldn't give him more run support.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kevin Gausman is the first pitcher in MLB history to have 4 consecutive starts in a single postseason where he pitched 5.0+ innings and allowed 3 or fewer runs but did not get the win. <a href="https://t.co/M265m5Zrmp">pic.twitter.com/M265m5Zrmp</a></p>— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaSTATS/status/1984444722266452324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>6th inning: </strong>Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s putting together one of the all-time great postseasons. His double in the sixth inning gives him the second-most hits all time in a playoff run, and he leads all players with a 1.324 OPS this October. The Blue Jays had Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the ropes with runners on first and second, but Daulton Varsho strikes out to end the threat. We'll see if Yamamoto comes out for the seventh at 96 pitches with Justin Wrobleski warming.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Most hits in a single postseason:<br><br>2020 Randy Arozarena: 29<br>2025 Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: 27<br>2025 Ernie Clement: 26<br>2014 Pablo Sandoval: 26</p>— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1984438941248827653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>5th inning: </strong>Everything's going precisely to plan for the Dodgers so far. Yoshinobu Yamamoto is dominating once again, and the offense has given him just enough to pitch with a lead. Meanwhile, Kevin Gausman enters the sixth inning on 82 pitches as Louis Varland - who else? - warms up in the bullpen. Ignore any pitch count for Yamamoto with this being his final appearance of the season. Expect Dave Roberts to keep him in as long as he's effective.</p><p><strong>3rd inning:</strong> The Blue Jays finally get to Yoshinobu Yamamoto, with George Springer hammering a 109.8-mph RBI single to get Toronto on the board. It's one of two hard-hit balls for the Blue Jays in the inning. We'll see if Yamamoto has additional trouble the second time through the order, as he's already needed 47 pitches to record nine outs. A third straight complete game is in jeopardy unless he can work some shorter innings. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">109.8 MPH exit velocity on this RBI single is the 2nd-hardest hit ball of this postseason for definitely-still-injured George Springer <a href="https://t.co/RjVtVBnHFA">pic.twitter.com/RjVtVBnHFA</a></p>— Céspedes Family BBQ (@CespedesBBQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/CespedesBBQ/status/1984427971440943279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>3rd inning: </strong>John Schneider's first big decision of Game 6 backfires. The Blue Jays intentionally walk Shohei Ohtani with two outs and a runner on second base to face Will Smith, only for the catcher to launch an RBI double down the left-field line. It was a bit of a curious decision, as Smith homered off Gausman in Game 2.</p><p>Dave Roberts' lineup reconstruction pays off, as it gets Mookie Betts going. Betts was dropped to the cleanup spot prior to Game 6, and he delivers a two-RBI single to make it 3-0. These are the first runs Betts has driven in this World Series.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MOOKIE COMES THROUGH WITH BASES LOADED! <a href="https://t.co/zOPl2OGzgK">pic.twitter.com/zOPl2OGzgK</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1984424115617599976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>2nd inning:</strong> Hits are going to be hard to come by. Kevin Gausman's struck out five of the six batters he's faced - already generating 11 whiffs with his splitter. Yoshinobu Yamamoto's matched him pitch for pitch, though, having thrown to the minimum through two innings. He also hasn't allowed a hit after Max Muncy's misplay of Nathan Lukes' grounder was changed to an error on the Dodgers third baseman. It's looking like an exact replica of Game 2 so far.</p><p><strong>1st inning: </strong>Credit to George Springer for even getting in the lineup tonight, as it's clear he's still dealing with a lot of discomfort. He winced in pain after his first swing and miss of the game and you have to wonder how much his injury will impact his swing. He ends up grounding out. </p><p><strong>1st inning: </strong>Shohei Ohtani hasn't been the same since the 18-inning game. He strikes out to open Game 6 after receiving a heavy diet of splitters from Kevin Gausman, who generates three whiffs in the at-bat. Ohtani's now in an 0-for-8 slump with four strikeouts. Gausman strikes out the side and this place is going nuts. He ends up recording seven whiffs on 11 splitters.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HOT START FOR GAUS 🥵<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Postseason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Postseason</a> <a href="https://t.co/cllj0hrQ0M">pic.twitter.com/cllj0hrQ0M</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1984413597754073193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Pregame:</strong> Might we see Shohei Ohtani start if the Dodgers force a Game 7? Dave Roberts said the right-hander is not an option to pitch in Game 6, but it would make the most sense to use him as an opener Saturday ahead of Tyler Glasnow. Ohtani last pitched Wednesday, so he would likely be available for no more than one trip through the order (depending on pitch count). Using him out of the bullpen would be much more complicated when factoring in his need to warm up during the game while also hitting. Glasnow, meanwhile, will be available in the bullpen for Game 6, though Roberts said he'd rather avoid calling on him tonight.</p><p><strong>Pregame:</strong> George Springer is surprisingly in the lineup. Manager John Schneider suggested that would be the case when speaking Thursday, but it's still somewhat shocking after seeing Springer exit Game 5 with a side injury. It's a bit of a roll of the dice for the Blue Jays, but if Springer is healthy enough to play, Toronto needs him. Springer serving as DH means Bo Bichette moves to second base, while Isiah Kiner-Falefa goes to the bench. Bichette wasn't in the lineup when the team last faced Yoshinobu Yamamoto.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Let's ride. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WANTITALL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WANTITALL</a> <a href="https://t.co/9WXTVawQrB">pic.twitter.com/9WXTVawQrB</a></p>— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) <a href="https://twitter.com/BlueJays/status/1984342121386819657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Pregame:</strong> Dave Roberts is shuffling his lineup once again to try to ignite a slumping offense. Mookie Betts (3-for-23) is dropped in the order for a second straight game and will bat fourth. It's the first time Betts will hit cleanup in a postseason game since 2017 with the Boston Red Sox. Miguel Rojas (0-for-2) slides in at second base, pushing Tommy Edman (3-for-21) to center field. It's a downgrade defensively, but the Dodgers need to focus on scoring runs at this point.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Game 6.<br><br>Tonight's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a> Dodgers lineup at Blue Jays: <a href="https://t.co/EBgHtHUoBy">pic.twitter.com/EBgHtHUoBy</a></p>— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dodgers/status/1984350572347343124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>Pregame:</strong> History is on Toronto's side. Teams that won Game 5 after the series was tied 2-2 have won the World Series 31 out of 46 times (67.4%). The Dodgers are 8-13 all time when playing a Game 6, while the Blue Jays are 5-2. The World Series hasn't gone to Game 7 since 2019.</p><p><strong>Pregame:</strong> The Blue Jays will try to win their first World Series title since 1993, while the Dodgers will attempt to force a Game 7 on Saturday. Kevin Gausman gets the ball for Toronto. He's been excellent this postseason (2.55 ERA) and allowed three runs over 6 2/3 innings in Game 2 against the Dodgers. Meanwhile, Los Angeles has its best arm on the mound in Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The right-hander's thrown back-to-back complete games and allowed one run off four hits with eight strikeouts in his last outing at Rogers Centre.</p>

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Chasing October: Relive Dodgers' stunning win in World Series Game 6

This is a collection of stories about what it's like to be a player for the final out of the Worl...

<p><em>This is a collection of stories about what it's like to be a player for the final out of the World Series, sharing three of the most unique experiences from recent years. </em></p><p>TORONTO - Kyle Schwarber watched the final out of Game 5 of the 2016 NLCS at a Chili's in Arizona. </p><p>A couple days later, he was playing in the World Series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Schwarber tore his ACL in the second game of the 2016 regular season for the Chicago Cubs. He was preparing for winter ball when he got the news that would change his life. In the back of his mind, he'd always believed that if his rehab continued to go well, he would have a shot at returning for the postseason - but realistically, that was wishful thinking.</p><p>So when doctors cleared Schwarber in early October, and he found himself on a plane to rehab in the Arizona Fall League, he couldn't believe it. After his night at Chili's, Schwarber watched the series-clinching Game 6 between at-bats during one of his rehab games.</p><p>"I didn't even pay attention to the fall league game, just watched the iPad in the dugout," Schwarber told theScore. "I'm just sitting there watching the NLCS and no one's talking to me. I finished up the game, and the training staff and some strength coaches had some champagne bottles that we popped for a little celebration."</p><p>After the mini celebration, Schwarber got a text from then-Cubs president Theo Epstein. Chicago was going to add Schwarber to the World Series roster. The team sent a private plane to Arizona to pick him up.</p><p>"That was surreal," Schwarber said. "They said, 'Get your stuff packed and call your family to come up.' That was insane. I had what felt like a six-and-a-half hour flight, just being in my head the whole time thinking about what's going on. I'm about to face Corey Kluber.</p><p>"I didn't feel like they were going to put me on (the roster), just from the quality of the at-bats and where I was at in the fall league. I was literally just jogging to first base. You just think of all these different possibilities in your head. What happens if I suck? What happens if I'm getting embarrassed up there? I was just like, 'I gotta make it through the first at-bat.'"</p><p>Schwarber didn't suck. He never got embarrassed. In fact, he was an offensive force during the World Series, going 7-for-17 and helping lead the franchise to its first championship in 108 years.</p><p>He went 3-for-5 in Game 7 in Cleveland, but he watched the end of the game from the dugout after being lifted for a pinch runner in the 10th inning.</p><p>"As soon as you come out of the game, versus when you're in the game, it's a different feeling," Schwarber said. "There's no control anymore. I'm just being a nervous wreck. </p><p>"Me and Jon Lester were pacing back and forth, kind of bouncing questions, like, 'What's the best pitch here? What are we going to throw them?' And then it's over, and all that goes away. It's just pure pandemonium."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807877/cropped_GettyImages-1146310031.jpg?ts=1761846946" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807877/w220xh124_GettyImages-1146310031.jpg?ts=1761846946 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807877/w320xh180_GettyImages-1146310031.jpg?ts=1761846946 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807877/w640xh360_GettyImages-1146310031.jpg?ts=1761846946 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807877/w768xh432_GettyImages-1146310031.jpg?ts=1761846946 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807877/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1146310031.jpg?ts=1761846946 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Diamond Images / Diamond Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Kris Bryant gathered a slow grounder and slipped on the throw, but he still managed to fire the ball across the diamond to Anthony Rizzo. The Cubs had done it. The curse was broken.</p><p>"One of the most dramatic last outs ever," Schwarber said. "His foot slips when he goes to throw, and then you see the ball, and it looks like it's coming high out of his hand, and I'm like, 'Oh no.' And then it hits chest high on Rizzo, and it's over."</p><p>While Schwarber recalls the chaos, what Jason Heyward remembers most is the momentary silence at Progressive Field.</p><p>"The only person talking was probably the commentator," Heyward said. "I'm going to back up the throw and Rizzo catches it. It was still, like quiet again for a brief second, everybody held their breath to see. And then it was however many Cubs fans over there - I mean, had to be at least, like, 20,000 - yell in elation."</p><h3>'It felt like I was in a movie'</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807880/cropped_GettyImages-869216084.jpg?ts=1761848541" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807880/w220xh124_GettyImages-869216084.jpg?ts=1761848541 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807880/w320xh180_GettyImages-869216084.jpg?ts=1761848541 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807880/w640xh360_GettyImages-869216084.jpg?ts=1761848541 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807880/w768xh432_GettyImages-869216084.jpg?ts=1761848541 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807880/w1080xh607_GettyImages-869216084.jpg?ts=1761848541 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Trautwig / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Thirteen years into his MLB career, Justin Verlander was finally about to reach the summit.</p><p>Verlander had started Game 6 of the World Series the day before. In Game 7, he was in the Dodger Stadium bullpen in case of emergency, standing next to Lance McCullers Jr. with his spikes on.</p><p>Pressed up against the fence, Verlander was relegated to spectator status as Charlie Morton delivered the final 12 outs that secured the 2017 World Series for the Houston Astros.</p><p>It was time to run onto the field.</p><p>"Honestly, it felt like I was in a movie," Verlander told theScore. "It felt like I was floating. I just couldn't wait to get to the pile and celebrate. My view is a packed stadium, and I'm running to celebrate winning it all. It's just surreal."</p><p>Verlander had waited his whole life to realize that dream. But there wasn't much time to soak it in: Another ring was waiting.</p><p>Verlander skipped the parade and hopped on a plane to Italy to get married. In the months before the World Series, Verlander had been making wedding arrangements. For most of that time, he was a member of the Detroit Tigers, and the postseason wasn't on his mind. He agreed to the trade to Houston on Aug. 31. Still, he and his wife, Kate Upton, were able to make it work.</p><p>"We celebrated, and then I hopped on a plane the very next morning and flew straight to Italy," Verlander said. "Before we played Game 7, a lot of our friends were already at our wedding venue FaceTiming me saying, 'Hey, good luck. Your wedding's great, we're having a great time.'</p><p>"One of the parties already happened, and then some of the guests stayed up super late and watched (Game 7)."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807852/cropped_GettyImages-869504718.jpg?ts=1761841792" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807852/w220xh124_GettyImages-869504718.jpg?ts=1761841792 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807852/w320xh180_GettyImages-869504718.jpg?ts=1761841792 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807852/w640xh360_GettyImages-869504718.jpg?ts=1761841792 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807852/w768xh432_GettyImages-869504718.jpg?ts=1761841792 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807852/w1080xh607_GettyImages-869504718.jpg?ts=1761841792 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robert Beck / Sports Illustrated / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Just a few feet in front of Verlander in the visiting bullpen, George Springer was patrolling right field.</p><p>"The last nine outs felt like two days," Springer recalled. "I was counting outs, hoping the ball gets hit to me, but also, you kind of don't want to screw it up. I just remember pacing around the outfield. I was probably 15 or 20 feet out of position."</p><p>Morton induced a grounder to second base for the final out. Springer was on his way to meet Verlander and the rest of the group at the mound. The rest was a blur.</p><p>"I'm pretty sure I was probably supposed to go back up first base," Springer joked. "That's kind of all I remember, is I remember that I don't really remember."</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807854/cropped_GettyImages-869204086.jpg?ts=1761842167" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807854/w220xh124_GettyImages-869204086.jpg?ts=1761842167 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807854/w320xh180_GettyImages-869204086.jpg?ts=1761842167 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807854/w640xh360_GettyImages-869204086.jpg?ts=1761842167 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807854/w768xh432_GettyImages-869204086.jpg?ts=1761842167 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807854/w1080xh607_GettyImages-869204086.jpg?ts=1761842167 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Astros were all racing to get to Morton, who'd just delivered an epic performance out of the bullpen on two days' rest. The veteran right-hander admitted he wasn't expecting to pitch in Game 7 until A.J. Hinch approached him beforehand and said he'd be needed at some point.</p><p>"Running in from the bullpen at Dodger Stadium for Game 7 of the World Series was surreal," Morton said of when he took the mound.</p><p>Morton hadn't pitched in relief since 2008. He expected to air out his best stuff for one inning. But the more he pitched, the better he got, and Hinch kept rolling with the hot hand. Morton retired Corey Seager to end the game.</p><p>"I turned around and I'm looking for (catcher) Brian McCann. I don't know where he is, and then he comes flying in and jumping on me," Morton said. "I just remember getting involved in the scrum, then I got punched in the face." </p><h3>'We've still never celebrated'</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807885/cropped_GettyImages-1282863935.jpg?ts=1761851377" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807885/w220xh124_GettyImages-1282863935.jpg?ts=1761851377 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807885/w320xh180_GettyImages-1282863935.jpg?ts=1761851377 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807885/w640xh360_GettyImages-1282863935.jpg?ts=1761851377 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807885/w768xh432_GettyImages-1282863935.jpg?ts=1761851377 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807885/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1282863935.jpg?ts=1761851377 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tom Pennington / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Justin Turner was six outs away from winning his first World Series in 2020 when the unimaginable happened.</p><p>A member of the Los Angeles Dodgers' training staff pulled Turner from the dugout at Globe Life Field and told him president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman needed to speak with him. Turner had tested positive for COVID-19. Not only was he forced to leave Game 6 against the Tampa Bay Rays, but he had to isolate immediately.</p><p>"They took me off the field and into a doctor's office somewhere in the back of the stadium," Turner told theScore. "I had to watch the last two innings on a TV - not even with the normal game feed, I had to watch it from the bird's-eye view."</p><p>Turner had waited 13 years for that moment, and he'd been part of two Dodgers teams that had fallen just short of the title in recent seasons. He couldn't believe what was happening. He understood the severity of the illness that shut down baseball for months, but he felt fine.</p><p>As the Dodgers recorded the final out to win the franchise's first World Series since 1988, Turner and his wife Kourtney, who'd also been pulled from her seat, watched it alone together.</p><p>"It was an emotional time," Turner said. "Obviously, excited that we were able to accomplish something that we hadn't accomplished yet with the Dodgers. But at the same time, it was pretty disappointing and sad that I wasn't able to be out there.</p><p>"When you see the pitch, you hear the stadium react, you see everyone run on the field, and it was just, you know, waterworks for me and my wife sitting in the room."</p><p>Joc Pederson remembers the confusion of seeing Turner pulled from the game. </p><p>"It kind of set everyone off and it was really strange," Pederson said. "It created this weird dynamic."</p><p>The World Series was played in a bubble in Texas, a neutral site. Some fans were permitted to attend, but players and personnel still underwent regular COVID screening. The Dodgers weren't allowed to celebrate with champagne after winning and were immediately tested when they returned to their hotel after the game. The team took two planes back to Los Angeles after the series, though not everyone went together.</p><p>"It was like a Navy SEAL team," Pederson said. "We went in, just got a mission, and then everyone went their separate ways."</p><p>Turner was desperate for any way to celebrate. He asked if he and his wife could go out and get a picture, "so we have something that shows we're a part of it."</p><p>Somewhat controversially at the time, Turner got to the field, and when he arrived, his teammates made sure he was included in the championship photo. After the picture was taken, he was sent back into isolation. He showered and left the stadium in a separate car. The Turners then made the 21-hour drive from Arlington back to Los Angeles on their own.</p><p>Pederson was lucky enough to enjoy the conventional experience of being a World Series champion the following season with the Atlanta Braves, capturing the second title of his career.</p><p>"The excitement of a full stadium, the excitement of a parade, the excitement of all that, it's not even comparable," Pederson said. "The Braves experience are some of my best memories. With the parade, it's like a 72-hour party."</p><p>The Dodgers never got their parade.</p><p>"We've still never celebrated that World Series," Pederson said. "L.A. is an amazing place, and that's definitely something you would have wanted to embrace with the fans."</p><p>Five years and five teams later, Turner is still chasing that moment. </p><p>"It's something that I think drives me to keep going and want to win another championship so bad, so I can experience that feeling, whether it's running from my position or running from the dugout," Turner said.</p>

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'Like I was in a movie': MLBers share feeling of winning World Series

We break down the Toronto Blue Jays' 6-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 5 of the World ...

<p><em>We break down the Toronto Blue Jays' 6-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series.</em></p><h3>Yesavage saves best for last </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807806/cropped_GettyImages-2244074992.jpg?ts=1761801605" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807806/w220xh124_GettyImages-2244074992.jpg?ts=1761801605 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807806/w320xh180_GettyImages-2244074992.jpg?ts=1761801605 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807806/w640xh360_GettyImages-2244074992.jpg?ts=1761801605 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807806/w768xh432_GettyImages-2244074992.jpg?ts=1761801605 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807806/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2244074992.jpg?ts=1761801605 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Trey Yesavage keeps redefining what we think is possible, and the Blue Jays aren't one win away from a World Series title without him.</p><p>Making just the eighth start of his major-league career, the 22-year-old authored one of the most impressive performances in the franchise's history. Pitching at Dodger Stadium, and on the road for the first time this playoffs, Yesavage struck out an MLB-rookie record 12 batters while allowing only one run off three hits over seven innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Yesavage is the first pitcher in MLB history to record 12 strikeouts and zero walks in a World Series game, while the 23 whiffs generated are the most by a pitcher during the Fall Classic since pitch tracking became available in 2008, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1983725899616022955">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>The Dodgers appeared confident heading into Game 5 having already faced Yesavage in Game 1. Dave Roberts said he believed his team had a better game plan going in after seeing the unique delivery days earlier.</p><p>So much for that. </p><p>Yesavage was clearly up for the challenge and pitched completely differently the second time around, almost abandoning his fastball Wednesday. He also did a much better job at commanding the zone and throwing strikes.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 1" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-sLiFb" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/sLiFb/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="202" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Game 2" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-p7gr8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/p7gr8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="202" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The Blue Jays did well to hand Yesavage an early 2-0 lead before he took the mound, and he continued to show incredible poise by retiring the first seven Dodgers hitters. Even after surrendering a solo home run to Enrique Hernández, Yesavage polished off the next four batters and only allowed three baserunners over the following 4 2/3 innings, finishing his night after seven with at least one strikeout of every Dodger.</p><p>The biggest moment came in the fourth. With two on and two out, Alejandro Kirk called a mound visit, and Yesavage proceeded to get Tommy Edman to pop-up to end the inning. The game could've gone another way entirely if Kirk didn't settle his pitcher down there.</p><h3>Where'd the Dodgers offense go?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807750/cropped_GettyImages-2243717709.jpg?ts=1761778927" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807750/w220xh124_GettyImages-2243717709.jpg?ts=1761778927 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807750/w320xh180_GettyImages-2243717709.jpg?ts=1761778927 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807750/w640xh360_GettyImages-2243717709.jpg?ts=1761778927 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807750/w768xh432_GettyImages-2243717709.jpg?ts=1761778927 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807750/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2243717709.jpg?ts=1761778927 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Dodgers finished second in runs, homers, and OPS during the regular season, but the lineup's been a shell of itself through five games of the World Series. </p><p>Los Angeles has scored just four runs and managed 16 hits over its last 29 innings. The 18-inning marathon seems to have sucked all the life out of the team. </p><p>Roberts attempted to rearrange the deck chairs moving into Game 5, but putting Will Smith second in the lineup and demoting Mookie Betts to third did almost nothing. The same can be said for swapping Andy Pages with Alex Call.</p><p>Betts is now 3-for-23 (.130) in the World Series without an RBI. He said following the loss that he's been "terrible." </p><p>But it's not just him. </p><p>Aside from Shohei Ohtani's incredible Game 3 in which he went 4-for-4 with five walks, he's 2-for-15 with four strikeouts and two walks in the other four games. He's also gone seven straight at-bats without a hit.</p><p>Despite the Dodgers outhomering the Blue Jays 8-7 in the series, seven of those have been solo shots. Los Angeles isn't getting enough traffic on base for those big swings to really do damage on the scoreboard.</p><p>Luckily, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto going in Game 6, the Dodgers may not need to score a lot to even the series.</p><h3>L.A.'s defense is haunting them too</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807807/cropped_GettyImages-2244067848.jpg?ts=1761801774" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807807/w220xh124_GettyImages-2244067848.jpg?ts=1761801774 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807807/w320xh180_GettyImages-2244067848.jpg?ts=1761801774 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807807/w640xh360_GettyImages-2244067848.jpg?ts=1761801774 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807807/w768xh432_GettyImages-2244067848.jpg?ts=1761801774 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807807/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2244067848.jpg?ts=1761801774 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Luke Hales / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>With Los Angeles struggling to score runs, its defense really can't afford the amount of miscues committed in Game 5.</p><p>After the Dodgers grabbed some momentum by making it 2-1 in the third inning, Teoscar Hernández's misplay that turned a Daulton Varsho single into a triple to lead off the fourth was crushing. Varsho immediately scored the following at-bat on an Ernie Clement sac fly.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Daulton Varsho leads off the fourth inning with a triple that gets by a sliding Teoscar Hernandez! <a href="https://t.co/SESf4ASC9p">pic.twitter.com/SESf4ASC9p</a></p>— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/1983702574323921347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Toronto put the game to bed in the seventh, scoring a pair of runs with just two hits. Addison Barger singled and then advanced to second on a wild pitch. A grounder to the right side of the infield allowed him to advance to third base, and Barger came around to score on another wild pitch. L.A. became the first team ever to throw three wild pitches during the same inning in the World Series. To add insult to injury, the Dodgers threw another wild pitch in the eighth that eventually led to the sixth run.</p><p>If you give the Blue Jays extra outs and 90 feet, they'll make you pay. It's a big part of why they're one game away from winning a championship.</p><p>"Giving up bases and not converting outs when you have an opportunity to convert outs, that came back to bite us tonight," Roberts said.</p><p>Los Angeles beat the New York Yankees in last year's World Series by taking advantage of mistakes, but the tables have turned this October, and the Dodgers' offense simply isn't good enough right now to bail them out.</p><h3>Jays ambush Snell </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807808/cropped_GettyImages-2243544540.jpg?ts=1761801863" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807808/w220xh124_GettyImages-2243544540.jpg?ts=1761801863 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807808/w320xh180_GettyImages-2243544540.jpg?ts=1761801863 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807808/w640xh360_GettyImages-2243544540.jpg?ts=1761801863 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807808/w768xh432_GettyImages-2243544540.jpg?ts=1761801863 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807808/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2243544540.jpg?ts=1761801863 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Despite what his final line might say, Blake Snell pitched well and kept the Dodgers in the game for 6 2/3 innings. But he was done in early, thanks to the Blue Jays' aggressiveness.</p><p>Snell's first three pitches were four-seam fastballs, and Toronto was ready for them. Davis Schneider ripped the first pitch of the game - a 97-mph fastball - into the left-field pavilion. Two pitches later, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. pounced on another fastball for a solo homer that held up as the game-winning run.</p><p>"You might only get one fastball to hit, and Snell likes his changeup," Schneider told <a href="https://x.com/MLBNetwork/status/1983747227748356484">MLB Network's Lauren Shehadi</a>. "I just didn't want to get to that changeup early on, so I was sitting fastball and didn't miss it."</p><p>From there, Snell got the message, abandoning the fastball for almost two full innings.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Blake Snell: 3 straight fastballs... then didn't throw another one until the last pitch of the 2nd... <a href="https://t.co/NJmMpfvhGj">pic.twitter.com/NJmMpfvhGj</a></p>— Chris Black (@DownToBlack) <a href="https://twitter.com/DownToBlack/status/1983694911661842634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Blue Jays' plan was clearly to ambush Snell, and it worked. Four of their six hits against him came during the first time through the order, when each of Toronto's nine hitters acted quickly to try and put the ball in play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jays order, first time through, first pitch swung at.<br><br>Schneider: 1st pitch<br>Vlad: 2nd<br>Bo: 1st<br>Kirk: 2nd<br>Varsho: 1st<br>Ernie: 1st<br>Barger: 1st<br>IKF: 2nd<br>Giménez: 2nd<br><br>Aggressive.</p>— Céspedes Family BBQ (@CespedesBBQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/CespedesBBQ/status/1983693800586539042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>That kind of aggressive approach is a hallmark of Blue Jays baseball, and it speaks to why it's been so difficult for the Dodgers to contain. Toronto puts the ball in play consistently, makes contact, and wears down opposing pitchers.</p><p>Even if the Blue Jays strike out, they'll often do so after fouling off multiple pitches and working the count deep. Schneider and Kirk both had six-pitch strikeouts in the third with multiple foul balls that drove Snell's pitch count up. Barger worked a six-pitch walk in the fourth, and Schneider did the same in the fifth. The final four batters Snell faced in Game 5 each saw five or more pitches, ultimately driving the left-hander out of the game.</p><p>The Blue Jays used the same strategy to knock off the Yankees and Seattle Mariners. Now, it has them on the cusp of a title with Dodgers pitchers kicking dirt in frustration.</p><p>Heading into this series, one of the most intriguing subplots was seeing how the powerful Dodgers' pitching staff would adjust to the contact-heavy Blue Jays' offense, and vice-versa. Clearly, Toronto's done a better job of that through the first five games. Los Angeles only has 54 outs left to flip the switch.</p>

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Jays Watch: Blue Jays have 2 chances at home to win it all 

Well, that was insane.  The Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Toronto Blue Jays 6-5 in 18 innings in G...

<p>Well, that was insane.</p><p>The Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Toronto Blue Jays <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3380426" href="https://thescore.com/news/3380426">6-5 in 18 innings</a> in Game 3 on Monday, matching the longest World Series game in MLB history.</p><p>Here are some of the standout numbers from the historic contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>0 </strong>- RBIs for Mookie Betts despite nine plate appearances. Betts went 0-for-3 with RISP and 0-for-5 with a runner on base on the night.</p><p><strong>1</strong> - Clayton Kershaw retired Nathan Lukes with the bases loaded to end the 12th inning. That was the only batter the left-hander faced in the game.</p><p><strong>2 </strong>- Players with multiple walk-off hits in the World Series. Freddie Freeman joined Goose Goslin, who did it in 1934 and 1935. Freeman, the hero on Monday night with an 18th-inning solo homer, also hit an iconic walk-off grand slam in Game 1 of last year's World Series.</p><p><strong>4</strong> - Shohei Ohtani became the the first player with four intentional walks in a postseason game. Ohtani went 4-for-4 with two home runs and two doubles in the first seven innings before he was walked five straight times.</p><p><strong>9</strong> - Ohtani set the MLB postseason record for most times reaching base. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">SHOHEI OHTANI GAME 3 MASTERPIECE IN THE WORLD SERIES 🔥<br><br>Ohtani becomes the first player in MLB history with three multi-HR games in a postseason 🤩 <a href="https://t.co/vDMtUXuOHY">pic.twitter.com/vDMtUXuOHY</a></p>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1983065917090050147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><strong>10 </strong>- The Dodgers are the first team ever to use 10 pitchers in a World Series game. Four pitchers combined to record only four outs as the bullpen allowed just one run over 13 1/3 innings.</p><p><strong>17 </strong>- Hours between the end of Game 3 and the start of Game 4. Ohtani gets the ball Tuesday night coming off a 10-strikeout performance in his last start. </p><p><strong>18 </strong>- The marathon tilt matched the innings total from Game 3 between the Dodgers and Boston Red Sox in the 2018 World Series. Those are the two longest games in the history of the Fall Classic. Los Angeles won that night on a Max Muncy walk-off homer but went on to lose the series.</p><p><strong>19</strong> - Combined pitchers who came into Game 3, the most in postseason history. Neither team had a single reliever left in its bullpen. Prior to Freeman's walk-off homer, starters Shane Bieber and Yoshinobu Yamamoto were up in their respective bullpens preparing to potentially enter the game. This comes after the Dodgers only needed one pitcher in Game 2.</p><p><strong>23</strong> - Franchise record for players used by the Blue Jays in a playoff game, which also tied an MLB record. The only players Toronto did not use were Game 4 starter Bieber (who did begin to get loose in the bullpen), Kevin Gausman, and Trey Yesavage.</p><p><strong>37</strong> - Runners left on base by both teams. It certainly wasn't an offensive clinic, as the two clubs combined for one run over the final 10 innings. The Blue Jays set the World Series record by leaving 19 runners on base.</p><p><strong>44 </strong>-<strong> </strong>Total players used, marking the second most in World Series history.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807560/cropped_GettyImages-2243329004.jpg?ts=1761659655" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807560/w220xh124_GettyImages-2243329004.jpg?ts=1761659655 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807560/w320xh180_GettyImages-2243329004.jpg?ts=1761659655 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807560/w640xh360_GettyImages-2243329004.jpg?ts=1761659655 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807560/w768xh432_GettyImages-2243329004.jpg?ts=1761659655 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/807560/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2243329004.jpg?ts=1761659655 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>72</strong> - Pitches thrown by Dodgers reliever Will Klein in the win. The right-hander hadn't thrown more than 36 pitches in a single outing this season and had only thrown 14 pitches total in this year's playoffs prior to Game 3.</p><p><strong>101.8 </strong>- The fastest pitch of the game delivered by Edgardo Henriquez in the 13th inning. That's right: The Dodgers' ninth pitcher of the night was throwing over 100 mph.</p><p><strong>153</strong> - Combined plate appearances between the two teams, which set a World Series record. Despite this, there were only 11 runs, 31 hits (.203 average), 19 walks, and 29 strikeouts. </p><p><strong>609</strong> - Pitches thrown, establishing another World Series record. That's more than the 549 total pitches thrown in Game 1 and 2 of the series combined.</p><p><strong>6:39</strong> - Game time. It was the longest game in Blue Jays history. </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 27: Max Muncy #13 and Freddie Freeman #5 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate after Freeman's walk-off home run in the 18th inning of Game Three of the 2025 World Series presented by Capital One between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Monday, October 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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By the numbers: Epic Game 3 full of unprecedented performances

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/brandon-wile/content_cards

Brandon Wile

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/tom-ruminski/content_cards

Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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