Shohei Ohtani will soon restart his preparation to pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Manager Da...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> will soon restart his preparation to pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers.</p><p>Manager Dave Roberts announced the two-way star is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Saturday. It will be Ohtani's first bullpen since Feb. 25 after the Dodgers slowed down the pitching side of his recovery from elbow surgery so he could focus on hitting before Opening Day.</p><p>"This is a long-term play for Shohei's well-being also," Roberts said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/shohei-ohtani-to-ramp-up-rehab-as-pitcher">MLB.com's Andrés Soto</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"So making sure that we're as cautious and careful as we possibly can (be). And, yeah, for 2025, the most important piece of this is having him be able to do both through the end of the season, through October."</p><p>The plan appears to be for Ohtani to pitch in a big-league game by May, but Roberts said he won't commit to a timeline until after watching the 30-year-old throw Saturday.</p><p>Ohtani has yet to pitch for the Dodgers after signing a record-breaking contract ahead of the 2024 season. He last pitched in the majors for the Los Angeles Angels on Aug. 23, 2023.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 22: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers prepares to throw a pitch before a spring training game against the Kansas City Royals at Camelback Ranch on February 22, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Roberts says Ohtani will resume pitching prep: 'Long-term play'

The Pohlad family, which owns the Minnesota Twins, is looking for at least $1.7 billion to sell t...

<p>The Pohlad family, which owns the Minnesota Twins, is looking for at least $1.7 billion to sell the franchise, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6228151/2025/03/24/minnesota-twins-sale-pohlads-valuation-debt/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, Dan Hayes, and Brittany Ghiroli</a>.</p><p>However, the club has accrued debt of more than $425 million, one of the highest figures among MLB's 30 teams. It has prompted the Pohlad family to seek a high selling price and could be leading to limited interest from potential buyers, Rosenthal, Hayes, and Ghiroli add.</p><p>Twins executive chair Joe Pohlad <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3095644" href="https://thescore.com/news/3095644">announced</a> in October the franchise would go up for sale, and it appeared like billionaire Justin Ishbia was the front-runner to purchase it. Ishbia opted to increase his ownership stake in the Chicago White Sox instead, forcing the Pohlad family to renew the sale process.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Pohlad family doesn't appear to be interested in rushing a sale despite the debt and low attendance numbers. The Twins finished 23rd in attendance last season, averaging 24,094 fans per game, according to <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/leagues/majors/2024-misc.shtml">Baseball Reference</a>.</p><p>Carl Pohlad bought the Twins for $44 million in 1984. Minnesota has won two World Series and secured 11 division titles since then.</p><p> </p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 20: The Minnesota Twins logo on a ball bag during warms up during batting practice prior to a baseball game against the Washington Nationals at the Nationals Park on May 20, 2024 in Washington, DC.

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Report: Pohlad family seeking $1.7B for Twins

The San Diego Padres informed Jose Iglesias, Yuli Gurriel, Gavin Sheets, and Martín Maldonado tha...

<p>The San Diego Padres informed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1660" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1660">Jose Iglesias</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8117" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8117">Yuli Gurriel</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12551" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12551">Gavin Sheets</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1841">Martín Maldonado</a> that they made the Opening Day roster Sunday, sources told <a href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2025/03/23/gurriel-iglesias-sheets-and-maldonado-will-be-on-padres-opening-day-roster-one-bench-spot-remains/">Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune</a>.</p><p>Iglesias hit .200 with three RBIs in 11 spring games for the Padres after putting together a career year for the New York Mets last season. The slick-fielding 35-year-old slashed .337/.381/.448 in 2024.</p><p>Gurriel, 40, also joined the Padres on a minor-league deal. The former batting champ recorded 10 hits and six RBIs in 15 games this spring. He'll provide San Diego with depth at first base behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Sheets had a terrific spring, slashing .302/.362/.679 with six homers and 12 RBIs in 53 at-bats. The left-handed hitter could get a lot of at-bats at DH for the Padres. </p><p>Maldonado will fill the back-up catching role behind starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4702" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4702">Elias Díaz</a>. The 38-year-old hit .091 in spring and was one of the worst hitters in baseball last season when he hit .119/.174/.230 in 48 games for the Chicago White Sox. He's been a terrific defender throughout his career, recording 59 defensive runs saved in 14 big-league seasons.</p><p>The Padres gave the final position-player spot on their Opening Day roster to outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13983" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13983">Brandon Lockridge</a> on Monday, according to <a href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2025/03/24/speedy-outfielder-brandon-lockridge-fills-out-bench/">Acee</a>.</p>

PEORIA, ARIZONA - MARCH 17: Yuli Gurriel #10 of the San Diego Padres celebrates in the dugout after hitting a home run during a spring training game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Peoria Stadium on March 17, 2025 in Peoria, Arizona. Players wore green hats to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

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Report: Padres add 4 veterans to Opening Day roster

Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts was scratched from Sunday's lineup against the Los Ang...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> was scratched from Sunday's lineup against the Los Angeles Angels as he continues to battle a mystery illness that's plagued him during spring training.</p><p>Betts said he opted not to play because he can't keep food down. </p><p>The eight-time All-Star revealed he's lost around 25 pounds and hasn't been able to eat solid foods since two days before the Dodgers left for Japan.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Every time I've eaten, I've thrown up. Hopefully I can hold something down. I'm scared to eat, so I don't really know what do," Betts told reporters. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mookie updates the media on his health. <a href="https://t.co/qLMtTtFVnL">pic.twitter.com/qLMtTtFVnL</a></p>— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsNetLA/status/1904014375549358562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Betts traveled with the Dodgers to Japan for the Tokyo Series but flew back to Los Angeles early when he was unable to play due to the illness. He called the back-and-forth travel two of the worst flights of his life. </p><p>"My vitals, everything has come back clean, blood tests, everything has come back clean, healthy. I guess it's just something to do with my stomach being really aggregated," Betts said. </p><p>The 32-year-old said he received two litres of IV fluids while in Japan and has only been able to digest smoothies since becoming ill. He says he feels strong enough to play despite the weight loss. </p><p>"Even though I'm light I can still play. If I didn't throw up today I absolutely was in there," Betts said. </p><p>The former MVP has 25 at-bats under his belt this spring and has slashed .240/.276/.360 with three RBIs.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 14: Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers leaves the field during Game 2 of the NLCS presented by loanDepot between the New York Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Monday, October 14, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Betts scratched, 'scared to eat' amid mystery illness

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo is shouldering the blame after it was announced that C...

<p>Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo is shouldering the blame after it was announced that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> will not make a start until the team's fifth game of the regular season.</p><p>"This was probably a tactical error on my part. I'll take the responsibility for that," Lovullo said Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/Jake_M_Garcia/status/1903896235171610984">Jake Garcia of 12 Sports</a>.</p><p>Lovullo cited a scheduling mishap on his part as the reason why Arizona's big-ticket offseason acquisition will make his first start with the D-Backs on April 1 in a road game against the New York Yankees.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a> will start Opening Day when the D-Backs host the the Chicago Cubs.</p><p>"Corbin is a very routine-oriented player and I've yet to understand that until recently, and he's got a process and I respect that. I blame myself for not getting to know him and how important his routine on the day-by-day, hour-by-hour, minute-by-minute, second-by-second (is)," Lovullo said.</p><p>Lovullo admitted trying to recalibrate things to set Burnes up for the Opening Day nod, but he opted to keep his ace on track instead.</p><p>"I was really suffering through this whole process because I wanted to do what's right by the player," the manager said.</p><p>The D-Backs signed Burnes to a six-year, $210-million contract in one of the most surprising moves of the offseason after the 2021 NL Cy Young winner posted a 2.92 ERA and 1.10 WHIP in 194 1/3 innings for the Baltimore Orioles.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 21: Corbin Burnes #39 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches in the first inning during the spring training game against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Fields of Phoenix on March 21, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Lovullo takes blame for Burnes not starting until D-Backs' 5th game

Trayce Thompson's major-league return is going to have to wait.  The outfielder was optioned to T...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2165">Trayce Thompson</a>'s major-league return is going to have to wait.</p><p>The outfielder was optioned to Triple-A Worcester on Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1903914449339130140">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>.</p><p>Thompson, the brother of NBA star Klay Thompson, was vying for a roster spot with the Boston Red Sox after signing a minor-league deal with the organization in February. He hit six home runs, 13 RBIs, and posted a 1.280 OPS in 36 spring at-bats.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Boston's outfield appears to be set with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13925" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13925">Wilyer Abreu</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13703" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13703">Ceddanne Rafaela</a>, while its bench is expected to be comprised of catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14562">Carlos Narvaez</a>, outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4513" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4513">Rob Refsnyder</a>, and utility players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13606">Romy Gonzalez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13720" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13720">David Hamilton</a>.</p>

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - MARCH 11: Trayce Thompson #37 of the Boston Red Sox walks through the dugout before a Grapefruit League game against the Philadelphia Phillies at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida on March 11, 2025.

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Report: Red Sox option Thompson to minors after strong spring

The Atlanta Braves traded right-hander Ian Anderson to the Los Angeles Angels for left-hander Jos...

<p>The Atlanta Braves traded right-hander<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8134" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8134"> Ian Anderson</a> to the Los Angeles Angels for left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10592" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10592">José Suarez</a>, the clubs announced Sunday. </p><p>Anderson owns a 2.25 ERA in 20 spring innings, his first big-league action since 2023 spring training after working his way back from Tommy John surgery. </p><p>The 26-year-old broke onto the scene during the shortened 2020 campaign when he posted a 1.95 ERA and 11.4 K/9 in six regular-season starts before making four impressive playoff outings for the Braves.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Anderson was drafted by the Braves third overall in 2016 but was unable to earn a spot in Atlanta's starting rotation to begin 2025.</p><p>He will start the season in the Angels' bullpen, manager Ron Washington told <a href="https://x.com/mikehuntley63/status/1903937249252962495">Michael Huntley of the Orange County Register</a>.</p><p>Suarez, 27, posted a 6.02 ERA and 4.54 FIP with 56 strikeouts in 52 1/3 regular-season innings for the Angels in 2024.</p><p>The former starter has only made 10 starts over the last two campaigns and should provide the Braves with a third left-handed option in their bullpen alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8464" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8464">Aaron Bummer</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12425" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12425">Dylan Lee</a>.</p><p> </p>

NORTH PORT, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Ian Anderson #48 of the Atlanta Braves poses for a photo during the Atlanta Braves Photo Day at CoolToday Park on Friday, February 21, 2025 in North Port, Florida.

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Braves trade Anderson to Angels for Suarez

A new season brings new hope, but not every team will take a step forward in 2025. After looking ...

<p>A new season brings new hope, but not every team will take a step forward in 2025. After looking at <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3167807" href="https://thescore.com/news/3167807">five clubs that should improve</a> this year, we turn our attention to five teams that are likely to experience regression.</p><h3>Cleveland Guardians</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774248/cropped_GettyImages-2179678250.jpg?ts=1741531628" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774248/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179678250.jpg?ts=1741531628 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774248/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179678250.jpg?ts=1741531628 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774248/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179678250.jpg?ts=1741531628 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774248/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179678250.jpg?ts=1741531628 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774248/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179678250.jpg?ts=1741531628 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong><em>Wins in 2024: 92<br>PECOTA projected wins in 2025: 80</em></strong></p><p>The Guardians won 92 games and advanced to the ALCS under first-year manager Stephen Vogt last season thanks to the continued strong play of José Ramírez and an elite bullpen.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Replicating similar success in 2025 will be tough after Cleveland traded one of its top run producers Josh Naylor and elite defender Andrés Giménez.</p><p>Naylor was the only player on the Guardians - aside from Ramírez - to hit more than 14 home runs and generate more than 63 RBIs, while Giménez won his third consecutive Gold Glove. Cleveland is hoping the trio of aging veteran Carlos Santana, along with youngsters Kyle Manzardo and Gabriel Arias, will replace the lost production and defense.</p><p>The biggest factor, however, could be the ever-improving AL Central, where the Guardians are slated to play the Tigers, Royals, and Twins 39 times. While the Guardians had the Twins' number last season (10-3), they were a combined 12-14 against Kansas City and Detroit.</p><h3>Houston Astros</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774249/cropped_GettyImages-2155339604.jpg?ts=1741531793" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774249/w220xh124_GettyImages-2155339604.jpg?ts=1741531793 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774249/w320xh180_GettyImages-2155339604.jpg?ts=1741531793 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774249/w640xh360_GettyImages-2155339604.jpg?ts=1741531793 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774249/w768xh432_GettyImages-2155339604.jpg?ts=1741531793 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774249/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2155339604.jpg?ts=1741531793 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong><em>Wins in 2024: 88<br>PECOTA projected wins in 2025: 88</em></strong></p><p>The Astros' reign of dominance in the AL West looks to finally be coming to an end. Houston looks far different entering 2025 after trading star outfielder Kyle Tucker and not re-signing third baseman Alex Bregman.</p><p>Tucker and Bregman were integral parts of an Astros club that made eight straight playoff appearances and seven consecutive trips to the ALCS, but there are other concerns as well.</p><p>Houston's outfield looked so shaky after the Tucker trade that longtime second baseman Jose Altuve has since been moved into left field as a regular. His potential replacement at second, Brendan Rodgers, doesn't offer much with the bat and should be a bench player. Offseason additions Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes were nice pick-ups, but Houston's lineup isn't the behemoth it once was, even with them coming aboard.</p><p>In addition to potential lineup concerns, the starting rotation has question marks after Framber Valdez and Hunter Brown, and the bullpen doesn't look as scary as it used to beyond Josh Hader, Bryan Abreu, and Tayler Scott.</p><p>While PECOTA projects Houston to win as many games as last season, we believe that's a difficult benchmark to reach.</p><h3>Milwaukee Brewers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774251/cropped_GettyImages-2191982041.jpg?ts=1741531883" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774251/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191982041.jpg?ts=1741531883 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774251/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191982041.jpg?ts=1741531883 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774251/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191982041.jpg?ts=1741531883 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774251/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191982041.jpg?ts=1741531883 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774251/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191982041.jpg?ts=1741531883 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Aaron Gash / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em><strong>Wins in 2024: 93</strong></em><br><strong><em>PECOTA projected wins in 2025: 79</em></strong></p><p>The Brewers surprised in 2024, winning 93 games and a division title after preseason prognosticators didn't give them much of a chance to do well. It's more of the same entering 2025 after Milwaukee lost two major stars and made no significant moves in free agency. </p><p>Willy Adames is gone. His loss is a huge sting to the lineup on both sides of the ball and in the clubhouse, but it's also forced the Brewers to shift Joey Ortiz to a less familiar position for him at shortstop, while rolling the dice at the hot corner with unproven Oliver Dunn.</p><p>Meanwhile, a Brewers' bullpen that once featured Hader and Devin Williams will rely on Trevor Megill as the closer and a bunch of mostly unknowns in other roles, and a rotation that finished near the bottom of the NL in FIP last season didn't make any serious upgrades.</p><h3>Seattle Mariners</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742222/cropped_GettyImages-2160508167.jpg?ts=1741531966" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742222/w220xh124_GettyImages-2160508167.jpg?ts=1741531966 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742222/w320xh180_GettyImages-2160508167.jpg?ts=1741531966 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742222/w640xh360_GettyImages-2160508167.jpg?ts=1741531966 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742222/w768xh432_GettyImages-2160508167.jpg?ts=1741531966 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742222/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2160508167.jpg?ts=1741531966 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong><em>Wins in 2024: 85<br>PECOTA projected wins in 2025: 85</em></strong></p><p>The Mariners missed the playoffs by one game last season despite owning one of the best starting rotations in baseball. Yet, their front office did little to address their areas of need this winter.</p><p>Seattle ranked 21st in runs and second-to-last in batting average in 2024, but adding Donovan Solano - who projects more as a bench bat - and re-signing Jorge Polanco were their biggest moves.</p><p>Meanwhile, the bullpen, which ranked near the bottom of the AL in win probability added and fWAR last season, leaves much to be desired beyond closer Andrés Munoz.</p><p>Playing improved rosters of the Rangers, Athletics, and Angels a combined 35 times will also be a major factor. </p><h3>St. Louis Cardinals</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/585574/cropped_GettyImages-1530975199.jpg?ts=1732295106" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/585574/w220xh124_GettyImages-1530975199.jpg?ts=1732295106 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/585574/w320xh180_GettyImages-1530975199.jpg?ts=1732295106 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/585574/w640xh360_GettyImages-1530975199.jpg?ts=1732295106 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/585574/w768xh432_GettyImages-1530975199.jpg?ts=1732295106 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/585574/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1530975199.jpg?ts=1732295106 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nuccio DiNuzzo / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong><em>Wins in 2024: 83<br>PECOTA projected wins in 2025: 77</em></strong></p><p>It's an unfamiliar term for the Cardinals, but a rebuild is underway in St. Louis. </p><p>Young players such as Masyn Winn, Jordan Walker, and Nolan Gorman are going to get significant playing time with the direction of the club changing during president of baseball operations John Mozeliak's final season with the franchise.</p><p>Nolan Arenado is still on the team despite the front office's best attempts at trading him, but his tenure in St. Louis likely won't last beyond the trade deadline. The same could be said for fellow veterans Sonny Gray, Willson Contreras, and Ryan Helsley.</p><p>And all of this comes with the Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, and Pittsburgh Pirates looking better amid a wide-open race for the NL Central crown.</p>

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5 MLB teams that will take a step back in 2025

LeBron James returned to the Los Angeles Lakers' lineup for Saturday night's 146-115 blowout defe...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a> returned to the Los Angeles Lakers' lineup for Saturday night's 146-115 blowout defeat to Chicago Bulls.</p><p>James started the contest alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/70968" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/70968">Jaxson Hayes</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11858" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11858">Dorian Finney-Smith</a>. He finished with 17 points, six boards, four assists, and three steals in 31 minutes of action.</p><p>Bulls guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69889" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69889">Coby White</a> led all players with 36 points. Meanwhile, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96131" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96131">Josh Giddey</a> added 15 points, 17 assists, 10 boards, and eight steals to finish just short of a quadruple-double.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The NBA's all-time scoring leader has missed the Lakers' past seven games after suffering a left groin strain March 8 against the Boston Celtics.</p><p>James was averaging 25 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists before the injury.</p><p>The Lakers lost four of seven games without James.</p><p>Los Angeles also got back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53163" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53163">Rui Hachimura</a> for Saturday's contest. The Japanese forward had five points and two boards off the bench in 18 minutes.</p><p>Hachimura missed the past 12 games with a left knee injury. The 27-year-old entered Saturday's game averaging 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds this season.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA -MARCH 4, 2025: Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts after his there-point shot put him at the 50,000 point mark, a record for the Lakers, in the first half against the New Orleans Pelicans at Crypto.com Arena on March 4, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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LeBron returns to Lakers' lineup in lopsided loss to Bulls

The Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a five-year, $58-million contract extension with catcher Alejandr...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a five-year, $58-million contract extension with catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11875" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11875">Alejandro Kirk</a>, a source told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1903638985244848539">FanSided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>Kirk's deal includes a signing bonus and no club options, Murray added. The signing bonus is for $6 million and the deal has no deferred money, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1903639853864231167">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>The extension covers the 2026-31 campaigns after Kirk avoided arbitration with the Blue Jays last January and agreed to a $4.6-million salary for 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kirk, 26, owns a career .264/.344/.391 slash line with 36 home runs and 187 RBIs in 434 games with the Blue Jays. He's hit well this spring, posting an .819 OPS with 13 hits and eight RBIs in 17 games.</p><p>Defensively, he ranked in the 93rd percentile in framing and 97th percentile in caught-stealing above average last season, according to <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/alejandro-kirk-672386?stats=statcast-r-hitting-mlb">Baseball Savant</a>. </p><p> </p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 17: Alejandro Kirk #30 of the Toronto Blue Jays gestures to his dugout from second base after hitting an RBI double during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on September 17, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Blue Jays agree to 5-year, $58M extension with Kirk

The Colorado Rockies traded outfielder Nolan Jones back to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange fo...

<p>The Colorado Rockies traded outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12318" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12318">Nolan Jones</a> back to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for infielder/outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11006" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11006">Tyler Freeman</a>, the teams announced Saturday.</p><p>The Guardians traded Jones to the Rockies for minor-league utility player Juan Brito on Nov. 15, 2022.</p><p>Jones was terrific for the Rockies in 2023, finishing fourth in National League Rookie of the Year voting after hitting .297/.389/.542 with 20 home runs, 62 RBIs, and 20 steals in 106 games. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old failed to produce similar numbers last season, with his OPS dipping to .641 (75 OPS+) with three homers in 79 games. His defense also slipped, with Jones recording minus-four defensive runs saved in 2024 after posting a plus-10 mark in the same category two seasons ago.</p><p>Freeman, 25, slashed .209/.305/.321 with 32 RBIs in 383 plate appearances last season. </p><p>The former second-round pick provides the Rockies with a versatile defender who has played six different positions throughout his big-league career. </p>

SCOTTSDALE, AZ - MARCH 2: Nolan Jones #22 of the Colorado Rockies bats during the game against the Seattle Mariners at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick on March 2, 2025 in Scottsdale, AZ.

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Guardians reacquire Nolan Jones from Rockies for Tyler Freeman

Boxing Hall of Famer and former two-time world champion George Foreman died on Friday, according ...

<p>Boxing Hall of Famer and former two-time world champion George Foreman died on Friday, according to a statement from his family. He was 76. </p><p>"Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones," read a statement on Foreman's Instagram page.</p><p>"A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose. A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two-time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply respected - a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name - for his family. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>After "Big George" captured a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, he'd need just five years as a professional to become the heavyweight champion of the world with a stunning second-round knockout of the undefeated Joe Frazier in 1973.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QjOxjPE_14g?si=1eUdoBIRRV5m7i2P" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>After his victory over Frazier, Foreman would suffer the first defeat of his professional career, losing his championship to Muhammed Ali during the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" in Kinshasa, Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M22nWSzyccE?si=66yw7i6vId75ect1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Foreman first retired from boxing in 1977 before announcing his comeback in 1987 after spending a decade as a Christian minister.</p><p>At 45, Foreman defeated Michael Moorer to win the second heavyweight title of his career in 1994. He'd go on to hold the belts long enough to become the oldest heavyweight boxing champion in the history of the sport at 46 years and 169 days old.</p><p>"The Heywood Giant" retired from boxing once and for all in 1997 as he approached his 49th birthday. He finished his career with a 76-5 record with 68 knockouts. </p><p>Following his retirement, Foreman gained notoriety as the spokesperson for the popular "George Foreman Grill," and he made more money endorsing the fat-reducing product than he did as a boxer.</p><p>Foreman was elected into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 2002 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

Retired pro-boxer George Foreman arrives for the world premiere of "Big George Foreman: The Miraculous Story of the Once and Future Heavyweight Champion of the World," at Regal LA Live in Los Angeles, California, on April 26, 2023.

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2-time world champion George Foreman dies at 76

The Baltimore Orioles signed right-hander Kyle Gibson to a one-year contract, the team announced ...

<p>The Baltimore Orioles signed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1677" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1677">Kyle Gibson</a> to a one-year contract, the team announced Friday.</p><p>The deal is worth $5.25 million and includes an additional $1.525 million in performance bonuses, <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1903247254724436258">Jon Heyman of The New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>Gibson will reportedly earn $150,000 at each of 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 starts, according to <a href="https://x.com/afkostka/status/1903249185236767181">The Baltimore Banner's Andy Kostka</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said Gibson needs to go through his version of a full spring training and won't be ready to pitch for the big-league club for a while, according to <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1903246818756137324">MLB.com's Jake Rill</a>.</p><p>Gibson spent the 2023 campaign with the Orioles, winning 15 games and posting a 4.13 FIP over 192 innings. The 37-year-old played for the St. Louis Cardinals last season, authoring a 4.24 ERA in 30 starts.</p><p>The Orioles moved right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12260" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12260">Kyle Bradish</a> to the 60-day injured list to make room on the 40-man roster for Gibson. </p>

ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 10: Kyle Gibson #48 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches during Game 3 of the Division Series between the Baltimore Orioles and the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.

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Orioles reunite with Gibson on 1-year deal reportedly worth $5.25M

The Milwaukee Brewers traded utility player Mark Canha to the Kansas City Royals for a player to ...

<p>The Milwaukee Brewers traded utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3389" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3389">Mark Canha</a> to the Kansas City Royals for a player to be named later or cash considerations, the clubs announced Saturday.</p><p>Canha slashed .242/.344/.346 with 20 doubles and 42 RBIs for the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants last season. He posted a .376 on-base percentage with the Giants after he was traded to the Bay Area last July. </p><p>The 36-year-old hit .087/.250/.261 in 23 spring at-bats after signing a minor-league contract with the Brewers in February. He was expected to exercise an opt-out in his contract with Milwaukee, which is why he was traded, according to <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/1903245487928443279">MLB.com's Mark Feinsand</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kansas City will be Canha's sixth team of his 10-year career. He'll likely fill a bench role on the club, along with catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12621" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12621">Freddy Fermin</a>, infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12701" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12701">Nick Loftin</a>, and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13896" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13896">Dairon Blanco</a>.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 31: Mark Canha #16 of the San Francisco Giants at bat against the Miami Marlins at Oracle Park on August 31, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

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Brewers trade Canha to Royals

The Arizona Diamondbacks agreed to a five-year contract extension with right-hander reliever Just...

<p>The Arizona Diamondbacks agreed to a five-year contract extension with right-hander reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15415">Justin Martinez</a>, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Martinez's deal is worth $18 million, according to <a href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/mlb/diamondbacks/2025/03/21/source-arizona-diamondbacks-justin-martinez-nearing-contract-extension/82600441007/">The Arizona Republic's Nick Piecoro</a>.</p><p>The deal covers Martinez's remaining arbitration-eligible years and includes two club options valued at $7 million in 2030 and $9 million in 2031, a source told Piecoro. It also includes a $3-million conditional club option for 2032, Piecoro <a href="https://x.com/nickpiecoro/status/1903564618641137814">added</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Martinez's reported contract breakdown</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>YEAR</th>
<th>SALARY</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Signing bonus</td>
<td>$2M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025</td>
<td>$1.5M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2026</td>
<td>$2M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2027</td>
<td>$3M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2028</td>
<td>$4M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2029</td>
<td>$5.5M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2030</td>
<td>$7M club option</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2031</td>
<td>$9M club option</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2032</td>
<td> $3M conditional club option</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Martinez's deal could be as high as seven years and worth $39 million with options and escalators, a source told <a href="https://x.com/AriA1exander/status/1903212980067549238">KPRC 2 Houston's Ari Alexander</a>. </p><p>Martinez had a breakout campaign in 2024 where he authored a 2.48 ERA and 11.3 K/9 with eight saves in 72 2/3 innings.</p><p>The 23-year-old averaged 100.5 mph on his four-seam fastball and 100.2 mph on his sinker last season. He also generated a 54.0 Whiff% and 36.5 PutAway% with his splitter.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

CLEVELAND, OH - AUGUST 07: Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Justin Martinez (63) delivers a pitch to the plate during the ninth inning of game 2 of the the Major League Baseball Interleague game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Cleveland Guardians on August 7, 2024, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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D-Backs, Martinez agree to 5-year extension reportedly worth $18M

With spring training set to wrap up, we review the best player on each team from the exhibition s...

<p><em>With spring training set to wrap up, we review the best player on each team from the exhibition schedule.</em></p><p><strong>Arizona Diamondbacks - Josh Naylor:</strong> Since being acquired in an offseason trade, Naylor's made quite the impression. He's got 16 hits in 39 at-bats to go along with seven walks and just three strikeouts.</p><p><strong>Athletics - Miguel Andujar: </strong>The 30-year-old appears to have locked up a bench role following a tremendous spring where he's tied for the team lead in hits and posted a 1.045 OPS with six extra-base hits and five walks.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Atlanta Braves - Grant Holmes: </strong>He's quietly outpitched the Braves' bigger names to cement his spot in the rotation, allowing just three earned runs across 15 1/3 innings.</p><p><strong>Baltimore Orioles - Ryan Mountcastle: </strong>He's been tearing the cover off the ball in Sarasota, posting a .778 slugging percentage with five homers and 14 RBIs in 36 at-bats. He should get most of the playing time at first base for the O's this season.</p><p><strong>Boston Red Sox - Trayce Thompson: </strong>The 33-year-old has been one of the best hitters on any team this spring with six homers, 13 RBIs, 10 walks, and a 1.280 OPS. Thompson's done everything in his power to impress the coaching staff after signing a minor-league deal, but it still might not be enough to crack Boston's loaded roster come Opening Day.</p><p><strong>Chicago Cubs - Pete Crow-Armstrong: </strong>The soon-to-be 23-year-old is hitting a ridiculous .519 with three home runs, 11 RBIs, and two stolen bases. A dynamic athlete, he should thrive as the Cubs' everyday center fielder.</p><p><strong>Chicago White Sox - Brandon Drury: </strong>The veteran utility man looks like a shoo-in to make the Opening Day roster after a fantastic spring where he has 11 RBIs. Ten of his 16 hits have been of the extra-base variety. He could wind up being a nice trade chip at the deadline.</p><p><strong>Cincinnati Reds - Brady Singer: </strong>The ground-ball specialist did his best this spring to show the Reds why they traded for him. Singer pitched to a 2.25 ERA in four starts with a surprisingly high 13.5 K/9.</p><p><strong>Cleveland Guardians - Kyle Manzardo: </strong>Trading Naylor won't hurt so much if Manzardo keeps raking like he has this spring. The 24-year-old is slashing<strong> </strong>.326/.367/.609 with 15 hits in 16 games, including three homers.</p><p><strong>Colorado Rockies - Nick Martini: </strong>Martini stirred up some competition for a bench role by posting a 203 wRC+ with two home runs. He could earn some at-bats on a Rockies team sorely in need of competent hitters.</p><p><strong>Detroit Tigers - Casey Mize: </strong>The right-hander is beginning to show glimpses of the dominant pitcher the Tigers drafted first overall in 2018. Mize seems destined for the rotation after<strong> </strong>posting a 1.13 ERA this spring while striking out 18 in 16 frames.</p><p><strong>Houston Astros - Cam Smith: </strong>Are the Astros going to win the Kyle Tucker trade? Smith, who came back from the Cubs in the deal, is making a strong case for the Opening Day roster thanks to a .419/.500/.871 spring slash line with four homers and 11 RBIs.</p><p><strong>Kansas City Royals - Jac Caglianone: </strong>The 2024 sixth overall pick will begin the season in the minors, but he's proven he can hang with the big boys. Caglianone owns a ridiculous 1.235 slugging percentage and 1.871 OPS in 13 spring games.</p><p><strong>Los Angeles Angels - Jorge Soler: </strong>The Angels traded for Soler in hopes he'd provide their lineup with some punch. He's done exactly that in camp, crushing four homers while slugging .651, but his all-or-nothing approach has also led to 18 strikeouts.</p><p><strong>Los Angeles Dodgers - David Bote: </strong>The former Cub leads all qualified Dodgers hitters with a 1.171 OPS this spring - just like everyone expected, right? Bote's helped himself out by walking 11.8% of the time.</p><p><strong>Miami Marlins - Sandy Alcantara:</strong> The 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner appears to have fully recovered from Tommy John surgery. Alcantara hasn't allowed an earned run in 12 1/3 innings pitched and his fastball velocity has frequently touched the upper 90s.</p><p><strong>Milwaukee Brewers - Rhys Hoskins: </strong>After a tough 2024 season, the 32-year-old has looked more like himself this spring. Hoskins has hit six home runs, recorded eight RBIs, and walked six times in 38 plate appearances.</p><p><strong>Minnesota Twins - Matt Wallner: </strong>The outfielder isn't hitting for much average, but he's showcased a lot of pop this spring. Wallner is<strong> </strong>tied for the preseason lead in homers (six) and RBIs (14).</p><p><strong>New York Mets - Clay Holmes: </strong>Holmes made the reliever-to-starter transition look easy this spring, allowing two earned runs in 14 innings pitched while striking out 15. He performed so well that manager Carlos Mendoza named him the team's Opening Day starter with Sean Manaea sidelined.</p><p><strong>New York Yankees - Cody Bellinger: </strong>First impressions are everything, and Bellinger's made a good one on the Yankees. The offseason trade acquisition is slashing .465/.511/.791 with a team-leading 20 hits this spring.</p><p><strong>Philadelphia Phillies - Max Kepler: </strong>The Phillies brought in Kepler to hit, and that's what he's done all spring. The longtime Twin has slugged three home runs with a 1.150 OPS while walking nearly 18% of the time.</p><p><strong>Pittsburgh Pirates - Jared Jones: </strong>Paul Skenes isn't the only exciting young starting pitcher in Pittsburgh. Jones, who authored a strong rookie campaign of his own in 2024, has compiled an impressive 2.25 ERA with 17 strikeouts in 12 innings pitched this spring. However, he's dealing with an ominous case of elbow soreness.</p><p><strong>San Diego Padres - Gavin Sheets: </strong>No other Padre came close to Sheets' power numbers this spring. He leads the team with six home runs and a whopping 12 RBIs, and his production earned him a spot on the Opening Day roster.</p><p><strong>San Francisco Giants - Hayden Birdsong: </strong>Birdsong hit all the right notes this spring to lock down a rotation spot. The 23-year-old right-hander has allowed one earned run through four starts while striking out 18 batters and walking none.</p><p><strong>Seattle Mariners - Mitch Garver: </strong>The veteran DH/catcher's first campaign with the Mariners didn't go well, but Year 2 should be better if he can stay close to his spring pace. Garver owns a .310/.364/.621 slash line, and one-third of his hits have been homers.</p><p><strong>St. Louis Cardinals - Iván Herrera: </strong>Herrera, 24, doesn't look like he's at risk of losing the starting catching job anytime soon. He's put up a gaudy .379/.474/.724 slash line thanks in part to seven walks.</p><p><strong>Tampa Bay Rays - Curtis Mead: </strong>The 24-year-old Australian has been sensational this spring, slashing .543/.628/.657. He looks bound for a bench spot on the Rays with 19 hits in 13 games.</p><p><strong>Texas Rangers - Kyle Higashioka: </strong>The Rangers will employ a dangerous catching tandem of Jonah Heim and offseason addition Higashioka, who's been one of their best hitters this spring. The veteran backstop is tied for the team lead in homers and RBIs.</p><p><strong>Toronto Blue Jays - Alan Roden: </strong>The 25-year-old is making a serious push to be on the Opening Day roster thanks to a spring slash line of .391/.545/.739 with more walks than strikeouts in 17 games.<strong> </strong>He's a left-handed hitter and versatile defender, which makes him an asset coming off the Blue Jays' bench.</p><p><strong>Washington Nationals - James Wood: </strong>The promising 22-year-old outfielder has been a monster at the plate, hitting four runs and four doubles in 43 spring plate appearances. His video-game level OPS (1.132) and slugging percentage (.737)<strong> </strong>rank among the best by all hitters.</p>

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1 spring training standout for each MLB team

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes Yoshinobu Yamamoto is capable of becoming the f...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a> is capable of becoming the first Japanese pitcher in Major League Baseball history to win a Cy Young.</p><p>"If he can do that, obviously health (permitting), I see no reason why he won't be in the Cy Young conversation," Roberts said Tuesday after the right-hander pitched five strong innings in a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs in the Tokyo Series opener, according to <a href="https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2025-03-18/dodgers-yoshinobu-yamamoto-cy-young-caliber">Dylan Hernandez of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>Yamamoto allowed three hits and one earned run while striking out four and walking one in front of his home country.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old dominated the Cubs with a fastball that touched 98 mph and a splitter that impressed Chicago manager Craig Counsell.</p><p>"His splits were outstanding tonight," Counsell said. "They're 93, 94 on the split-finger. It's a pitch that you hope to get a couple of free ones on because they're out of the zone. But he threw so many competitive splits. It's a really tough pitch to lay off."</p><p>Yamamoto's 2025 debut went far better than his first outing of last season, when he allowed five earned runs in one inning of work against the San Diego Padres in South Korea. </p><p>The rough debut was one of many during an inconsistent campaign for the hurler, who said he didn't really find his confidence last year until the Dodgers reached the postseason. </p><p>"What I experienced in that month really made me confident," Yamamoto said, translated from Japanese. "If I do this, I'll get hit. If I feel like this and do this, I'll be able to hold them. I didn't have a precise feel for that last season, but I gained that sense in October."</p><p>Yamamoto is one of three Japanese starters on the Dodgers - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18692" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18692">Roki Sasaki</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> being the others - after inking a 12-year, $325-million deal before the 2024 campaign.</p>

TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 18: Yoshinobu Yamamoto #18 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts in the bottom of the fourth inning during the MLB Tokyo Series games against Chicago Cubs at Tokyo Dome on March 18, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.

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Roberts believes Yamamoto will be in 'Cy Young conversation' if healthy

A Miami Marlins practice squad concept that was advertised on social media was scrapped by the or...

<p>A Miami Marlins practice squad concept that was advertised on social media was scrapped by the organization after Major League Baseball voiced their concerns with the idea, report <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6211578/2025/03/17/marlins-practice-squad-mlb-minor-leagues/">Andy McCullough and Sam Blum of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>MLB officials contacted the Marlins after an advertisement appeared on the LinkedIn page of a minor-league staffer in Miami's organization. The ad offered non-professional players an opportunity to play on a practice squad against the Marlins' Single-A club in Jupiter, Florida for a $150 daily wage.</p><p>The league was reportedly concerned the idea would violate roster rules and potentially cause labor issues after the most recent minor-league collective bargaining agreement called for Low-A players to earn a minimum salary of $26,200, while rookie-ball players earned a minimum of $19,800.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A Marlins official told McCullough and Blum "someone ran too quickly" with the ad before it was finalized. It has since been deleted.</p><p>The Marlins enter the 2025 regular season with an MLB-low payroll of $47 million, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/payroll/_/year/2025/sort/cap_total2">Spotrac</a>.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 17: A general view of the Miami Marlins jersey logo before the game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on June 17, 2023 in Washington, DC.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3915" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3915">Joey Gallo</a>'s career appears to be moving in a different direction.</p><p>The two-time All-Star teased a transition to pitching after he was granted his release by the Chicago White Sox on Sunday.</p><p>Gallo, who spent most of his 10-year career in the majors as an outfielder, posted a highlight reel on Instagram that shows him throwing in a bullpen near the end of the video.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHRLu_ovxNE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHRLu_ovxNE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHRLu_ovxNE/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Joey Gallo (@joeygallo24)</a></p>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>"Just to be clear, I will be pitching," Gallo <a href="https://x.com/JoeyGallo24/status/1901325978812698935">tweeted</a> Sunday in a follow-up post.</p><p>"He had expressed interest through his agent if it didn't work out on the major-league team that he was going to explore the pitching side," White Sox assistant general manager <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1901344572464361575">Josh Barfield told MLB.com's Scott Merkin</a>.</p><p>"I know it's something he's been dabbling around with in between some of the reps here."</p><p>Barfield added that Gallo likely wouldn't pitch for the White Sox.</p><p>"Where we are right now, it's tough to give him that opportunity," Barfield <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1901346225217237337">said</a>.</p><p>The two-time Gold Glove winner's arm strength ranked in the 99th percentile as recently as 2021. He also has 43 career outfield assists.</p><p>Gallo was 2-for-20 with 11 strikeouts during spring training with the White Sox before getting released.</p><p>The 31-year-old owns a lifetime batting average of .194 with 1,292 strikeouts in 939 games, although his OPS is a respectable .775 due to his home-run prowess.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - APRIL 27: Joey Gallo #13 of the Minnesota Twins throws against the Kansas City Royals on April 27, 2023 at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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<p>Toronto Maple Leafs captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> believes the team needs to take ownership of their recent struggles, which continued Saturday in a 4-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators.</p><p>"The margins have been really small in the last couple of games, but the details in our game haven't quite been there," Matthews said, according to the <a href="https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/nhl/toronto-maple-leafs/takeaways-on-details-head-games-and-more-maple-leafs-adversity-in-loss-to-senators">Toronto Sun's Terry Koshan</a>.</p><p>"It's on us to figure that out and to just be better."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ottawa swept the season series, winning the three contests by a cumulative margin of 9-3. Toronto has lost five of its last six games, with its only victory coming via a shootout over the Utah Hockey Club.</p><p>The recent slump has dropped the Leafs to third in the Atlantic Division, with their next four games coming against the Calgary Flames, Colorado Avalanche, New York Rangers, and Nashville Predators.</p><p>Matthews believes the Leafs need to play better against these four opponents to get in the right frame of mind ahead of a playoff push.</p><p>"We have to get it through our heads that all of these games, especially (against) some of the teams we're playing, are going to be playoff-like games," he said.</p><p>"There are teams that are fighting for their lives. They're trying to make a push, they're desperate teams like the one we played tonight. We have to wrap our heads around that and just be better all around as a team."</p>

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 15: Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs looks on during the second period against the Ottawa Senators at the Scotiabank Arena on March 15, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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