Joey Gallo's career appears to be moving in a different direction.  The two-time All-Star teased ...

<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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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><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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Gallo teases transition to pitching after White Sox release

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews believes the team needs to take ownership of their re...

<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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Matthews: It's on Maple Leafs to 'be better'

Robot umpires are winning over fans during spring training.  "Reaction certainly from fans has be...

<p>Robot umpires are winning over fans during spring training.</p><p>"Reaction certainly from fans has been overwhelmingly positive," MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said of the Automated Ball-Strike System being tested during spring training, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3243582" href="https://thescore.com/news/3243582">The Associated Press</a>.</p><p>"I think that there's confirmation that the use of the technology and the renderings and the scoreboard is really a fan engagement addition that people really like."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Manfred added that MLB would consult with owners, management officials, and players before deciding whether to use the system during the 2026 regular-season campaign.</p><p>While fans have embraced the system, not everyone supports ABS. Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> recently said he remains skeptical of the challenge system and credited big-league umpires for their abilities behind the plate.</p><p>"Can we just play baseball? We're humans. Can we just be judged by humans? Do we really need to disrupt the game? I think humans are defined by humans," Scherzer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3226804" href="https://thescore.com/news/3226804">said</a>.</p><p> </p>

GOODYEAR, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 27: A general view of the scoreboard during an ABS challenge in the sixth inning of the game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Arizona Diamondbacks during a spring training game at Goodyear Ballpark on February 27, 2025 in Goodyear, Arizona.

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Manfred: Fan reaction to ABS 'overwhelmingly positive'

Colorado Rockies owner Dick Monfort believes Major League Baseball needs a salary cap if a team l...

<p>Colorado Rockies owner Dick Monfort believes Major League Baseball needs a salary cap if a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers is going to continue spending tons of money.</p><p>"Something's got to happen," Monfort told <a href="https://denvergazette.com/sports/mark-kiszla/kiszla-dick-monfort-salary-cap--dodgers-competitive-imbalance/article_cb6f6b88-ff99-11ef-a641-93cb4d9ae2f7.html#:~:text=%E2%80%9CSomething's%20got%20to%20happen.,salary%20cap%20and%20a%20floor">Mark Kiszla of The Denver Gazette</a>. "The competitive imbalance in baseball has gotten to the point of ludicrosity now. It's an unregulated industry.</p><p>"The only way to fix baseball is to do a salary cap and a floor. With a cap, comes a floor. For a lot of teams, the question is: How do they get to the floor? And that includes us, probably. But on some sort of revenue-split deal, I would be all-in."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Monfort's comments come after the reigning World Series champions pushed their 40-man payroll over $300 million this winter, stacking their already-potent roster with free agents like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18692" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18692">Roki Sasaki</a>.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Rockies are projected to win 56 games by PECOTA, which would be the franchise's third straight 100-loss season.</p><p>Monfort said he believes baseball's current structure only benefits big markets, with five of those franchises sitting near the top of payroll spending, while everyone else stands no chance to keep up financially.</p><p>"The Dodgers are the greatest poster children we could've had for how something has to change," Monfort said.</p><p>"Sports are supposed to have some sort of fairness, right? There's got to be some purity."</p><p>The Rockies rank 21st in the majors in payroll, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/payroll/_/year/2025/sort/cap_total2">Spotrac</a>. They signed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4300" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4300">Scott Alexander</a>, catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5095" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5095">Jacob Stallings</a>, and infielders <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8409" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8409">Thairo Estrada</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4499" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4499">Kyle Farmer</a> for a combined $10.5 million this offseason.</p>

DENVER, CO - MAY 10: Colorado Rockies owner Dick Monfort looks on before a game between the Texas Rangers and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on May 10, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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The Cincinnati Reds will begin the 2025 campaign without their starting catcher after Tyler Steph...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds will begin the 2025 campaign without their starting catcher after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8162" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8162">Tyler Stephenson</a> was diagnosed with a low-grade oblique strain on Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/GDubMLB/status/1900577826732229051">Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer</a>.</p><p>Stephenson experienced back soreness Wednesday, which forced the Reds to scratch him from their spring training contest against the Texas Rangers. An MRI revealed the oblique injury.</p><p>The 28-year-old backstop was set to earn most of the reps behind the plate for the Reds, who are attempting to win their first division crown since 2012.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stephenson had a solid year for Cincinnati in 2024, posting a .782 OPS (112 OPS+) with 19 home runs, 26 doubles, and 66 RBIs. His 3.0 fWAR ranked fifth in the majors among qualified catchers.</p><p>Offseason acquisition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5665" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5665">Jose Trevino</a> should shift to a starting role with Stephenson sidelined.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - AUGUST 10: Tyler Stephenson #37 of the Cincinnati Reds before the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on August 10, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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We've reached the quarter mark of the 2000s, and to celebrate, theScore's MLB editors constructed...

<p><em>We've reached the quarter mark of the 2000s, and to celebrate, theScore's MLB editors constructed each organization's best 26-man roster from the last 25 seasons. We continue with the NL Central.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181581" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181581">AL EAST</a><br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3212406" href="https://thescore.com/news/3212406">AL CENTRAL</a><br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3211619" href="https://thescore.com/news/3211619">AL WEST</a><br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3212407" href="https://thescore.com/news/3212407">NL EAST</a></strong><br><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3211695" href="https://thescore.com/news/3211695">NL WEST</a></strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VxCiB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VxCiB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-tUxLJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/tUxLJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="675" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5STfu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5STfu/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="667" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Anthony Rizzo.</strong> The backbone of the Cubs, Rizzo was one of the NL's finest first basemen for nearly a decade in Chicago. He appeared in three All-Star Games, won four Gold Gloves, and was an integral piece of the curse-breaking 2016 World Series squad.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Best pitcher: Jake Arrieta. </strong>The right-hander's five-year stretch from 2013-17 was some of the best pitching in franchise history. Arrieta's 2015 Cy Young campaign is one of the all-time great seasons by a starting pitcher, winning 22 games and logging a 1.77 ERA with 236 strikeouts in 229 innings.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Kyle Hendricks. </strong>The "Professor" never had dominating stuff, but boy could he pitch. Hendricks quietly put together a tremendous 11-year tenure, winning an ERA title in 2016 and amassing 97 victories in 276 appearances. Not too bad for an eighth-round draft pick.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Anthony Rizzo. </strong>The Cubs acquired Rizzo in a 2012 trade with the San Diego Padres involving Andrew Cashner. He went on to hit 242 homers, 784 RBIs, and receive multiple accolades in Chicago.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Kris Bryant.</strong> The Cubs drafted Bryant second overall in 2013. He went on to win NL Rookie of the Year in 2015 and NL MVP and a World Series in 2016 before finishing his tenure with the sixth-highest OPS (.886) in franchise history.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Mark Prior. </strong>The right-hander had his fair share of injuries, leading to a shortened five-year career, but he was elite when healthy. Prior finished third for the 2003 NL Cy Young after he logged a 2.43 ERA, a 2.47 FIP, and 245 strikeouts in 211 1/3 frames.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-HufFT" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/HufFT/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oxvoL" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oxvoL/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="626" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9Y3tn" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9Y3tn/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="667" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Joey Votto. </strong>The first baseman played every one of his 2,056 big-league games with the Reds and did some pretty special things. Votto claimed the 2010 NL MVP and finished with a .409 on-base percentage. With 356 homers, 1,144 RBIs, and a .920 OPS over his career, Votto might be the next Hall of Famer donning a Reds cap.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Johnny Cueto. </strong>Cueto was brilliant in his eight seasons with the Reds, especially in his prime when he posted an ERA below 2.82 in five consecutive seasons between 2011 and 2015. The entertaining right-hander also won 92 games and finished top four or better in NL Cy Young voting twice.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Eugenio Suárez.</strong> The third baseman might have been MLB's most underrated slugger during his Reds tenure. From 2016-21, Suárez's 176 home runs ranked fifth in the bigs, while his 476 RBIs ranked 12th.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Brandon Phillips. </strong>Acquired in a trade from Cleveland in 2006, Phillips went on to make three All-Star Game appearances and win four Gold Gloves. He also ranks eighth among Reds players in games played.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Joey Votto. </strong>His aforementioned accolades make him one of the best players in recent club history. Votto was drafted in the second round in 2002, and, aside from 31 minor-league games, suited up for only the Reds.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Mike Leake. </strong>He never appeared in an All-Star Game nor was he a Cy Young candidate, but Leake did some fine work for the Reds after they picked him eighth overall in 2009. The right-hander led the Reds in innings pitched from 2010-15 and ranked second with 62 wins during that stretch.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-OODWf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/OODWf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9eDvd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9eDvd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="675" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2Wbcw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2Wbcw/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="619" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Ryan Braun. </strong>He's one of the most productive Brewers of all time, ranking first in homers, while amassing the third-highest fWAR. Between 2007 and 2012, he won NL Rookie of the Year, appeared in five All-Star Games, and took home NL MVP.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Corbin Burnes. </strong>Burnes was unreal for the Brewers, making three All-Star Game appearances and winning a Cy Young before he was traded. He sits first in franchise history in FIP, second in strikeouts per nine innings, third in ERA, and sixth in total strikeouts.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Geoff Jenkins. </strong>Jenkins might not be a big name outside Milwaukee, but he was a key contributor during his tenure. He posted 212 homers and an .843 OPS, and he ranks ninth in franchise history in fWAR.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: CC Sabathia.</strong> The Brewers have a history of making solid acquisitions, but none were more impactful than Sabathia. The lefty helped Milwaukee reach the playoffs in 2008 after winning 11 games, logging a 1.65 ERA, pitching seven complete games, and throwing three shutouts in 17 starts after coming over from Cleveland at the trade deadline.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Ryan Braun. </strong>The Brewers drafted Braun, one of the franchise's greats, fifth overall in 2005. He spent his entire 14-year career in Milwaukee and ranks fourth among Brewers players in games played.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: J.J. Hardy. </strong>The one-time All-Star sits third all time among qualified Brewers shortstops in fWAR, so leaving him off this list was tough.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5OQCg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5OQCg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ENjVe" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ENjVe/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="609" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-EKuLu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/EKuLu/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="667" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Andrew McCutchen. </strong>Cutch has spent 11 of his 16 seasons in Pittsburgh, winning numerous accolades, including four Silver Sluggers, a Gold Glove, and the 2013 NL MVP. He's hit 235 homers, posted a .375 on-base percentage, and appeared in 1,578 games for the Pirates.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Gerrit Cole. </strong>He spent his first five big-league seasons with the Pirates before becoming a superstar in Houston and New York. Cole was solid in Pittsburgh, with his best campaign coming in 2015 when he finished fourth in NL Cy Young voting thanks to 19 wins and a 2.60 ERA in 208 frames.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Brian Giles. </strong>Giles might have been one of the most underrated players of his era, with much of his damage coming in a Pittsburgh uniform. The outfielder received MVP votes in four consecutive seasons and posted a .308/.426/.591 slash line with 165 homers and 174 doubles over his tenure.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Bryan Reynolds.</strong> He became a mainstay and has arguably been the Pirates' best player since they acquired him in a 2018 trade with the San Francisco Giants. Reynolds is a two-time All-Star who owns an .821 OPS across six seasons in Pittsburgh.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Andrew McCutchen. </strong>The Pirates drafted McCutchen 11th overall in 2005, and he's gone on to etch his name in the franchise's record books in multiple categories. He ranks top 10 in fWAR, games played, hits, and total bases.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Freddy Sanchez. </strong>Sanchez was a fan favorite in Pittsburgh, which made it difficult to omit him. The versatile infielder was a three-time All-Star, who won the NL batting title in 2006 when he hit .344.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-yJKkv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/yJKkv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup " aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-wI1Lw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wI1Lw/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="626" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff " aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-JmxYM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/JmxYM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="587" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Albert Pujols. </strong>He's one of the finest baseball players ever, and his historic career began in St. Louis. The slugger hit 469 of his 703 career homers for the Cardinals and posted 1,397 RBIs and a 1.031 OPS. Pujols won all three of his MVPs with the club and was a member of two World Series squads.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Adam Wainwright. </strong>Wainwright pitched every one of his 2,668 1/3 big-league innings in a Cardinals uniform. The savvy right-hander won 200 games, made three All-Star Games, and was a member of the 2006 World Series club.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Matt Carpenter. </strong>It's weird to call a three-time All-Star with 179 career homers underrated, but Carpenter was never the front man on stacked Cardinals teams. Even when he finished fourth for NL MVP in 2013 after leading his league in runs, hits, and doubles, he was outshone by teammate Yadier Molina, who received more votes.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Adam Wainwright. </strong>Wainwright was actually a first-round draft pick of the Atlanta Braves in 2000. The Braves flipped him to the Cardinals as part of a five-player deal involving J.D. Drew.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Albert Pujols. </strong>The Cardinals have developed numerous talented players, but none of them have reached Pujols' status. He ranks fifth or better all time among all MLB players in homers, RBIs, and games played.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Ryan Ludwick. </strong>Ludwick was a solid player for the Cardinals, posting an .857 OPS with 305 RBIs in 488 games.</p>

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Each MLB team's best roster last 25 years: NL Central

Rafael Devers is open to being the Boston Red Sox designated hitter on Opening Day after all.   T...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> is open to being the Boston Red Sox designated hitter on Opening Day after all. </p><p>The infielder, who has been Boston's starting third baseman since debuting in 2017, said he talked with manager Alex Cora and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow about where he will play this season.</p><p>"We spoke already, and I'm good to do whatever they want me to do," Devers said through an interpreter Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/NESN/status/1900265717250859318">NESN</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm here to help. I've already spoken with them about that and they know where I stand, but I'm just ready to play."</p><p>Devers' role came into question after the Red Sox signed another third baseman, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>, in free agency. Following the addition, Devers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220122" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220122">told the Red Sox </a>he wasn't interested in playing DH.</p><p>Devers is expected to appear in his first spring game Saturday after recovering from shoulder issues. He wasn't willing to disclose what he discussed with Cora and Breslow, but he admitted he was upset he'd been painted in a bad light for wanting to play third.</p><p>"It's been kind of sad that I've been put out there as someone who's bad for the organization. ... I've matured a lot during this," Devers <a href="https://x.com/NESN/status/1900267863593660500">continued</a>. "I'm ready to move forward."</p><p>He added, "At the end of the day, it's not my decision. I don't call the shots around here."</p><p>The three-time All-Star is one of Boston's best bats, but he's posted minus-62 defensive runs saved and made 141 errors at the hot corner since 2017.</p><p>Meanwhile, Bregman is fresh off winning his first Gold Glove and amassed 17 more defensive runs saved than Devers did at third base last season.</p><p>Devers is under contract until 2033, while Bregman can opt out of his three-year deal following both the 2025 and 2026 campaigns.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

FORT MYERS, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox takes batting practice prior to the game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park at Fenway South on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 in Fort Myers, Florida.

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<p>Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4272">Lucas Giolito</a> will begin the 2025 campaign on the injured list.</p><p>"We're going to be tested right away," Cora said Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/byJulianMack/status/1900209095694590313">The Boston Globe's Julian McWilliams</a>.</p><p>Giolito was diagnosed with a low-grade left hamstring strain after he was removed from his spring start Tuesday. The pitcher isn't expected to be shut down from throwing, according to <a href="https://x.com/Sean_McAdam/status/1900179645728772277">MassLive's Sean McAdam</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old said he felt "100% fine" after throwing Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/bradfo/status/1900214522536755428">Audacy's Rob Bradford</a>.</p><p>Giolito hasn't pitched a regular-season game since signing with Boston in January 2024. He underwent an internal brace procedure to repair his ulnar collateral ligament last March.</p><p>The Red Sox recently announced starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a> will also begin the campaign on the injured list.</p><p> </p>

Fort Myers, FL - February 13: Boston Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito throws during spring training at JetBlue Park.

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<p>Here are the top 200 players for standard 5x5 leagues in fantasy baseball entering the 2025 season. Position eligibility is from Yahoo Sports.</p><p><em>Note: Rankings updated following injuries to Francisco Alvarez, Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, George Kirby, and Grayson Rodriguez. </em></p><p><strong>Rankings</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><em><strong>Top 200</strong></em> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222306" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222306">C</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222223" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222223">1B</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222209" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222209">2B</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220988" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220988">3B</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220983" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220983">SS</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220968" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220968">OF</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220834" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220834">SP</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220844" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220844">RP</a></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 200 players" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-pkUAh" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/pkUAh/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="140" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();</script></figure>

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2025 fantasy baseball rankings: Top 200

The Boston Red Sox starting rotation took a hit Tuesday when manager Alex Cora announced right-ha...

<p>The Boston Red Sox starting rotation took a hit Tuesday when manager Alex Cora announced right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a> will start the 2025 campaign on the injured list because of shoulder inflammation.</p><p>"He's behind. So he's not going to be with us for the Opening Day," Cora said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/brayan-bello-injury-update-rafael-devers-spring-debut-delayed">MLB.com's Ian Browne</a>.</p><p>"Just doesn't make sense to push him and rush everything and then something major happens. So he's throwing a live BP tomorrow. He's going to be part of it. But he's behind, so we'll take care of him."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bello, 25, hasn't pitched this spring due to shoulder inflammation. He's only expected to miss one or two turns in the rotation to begin the regular season.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15514" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15514">Richard Fitts</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12463" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12463">Quinn Priester</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13601" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13601">Cooper Criswell</a> are fill-in options for the Red Sox rotation, which is set to begin the campaign with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9530">Tanner Houck</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> as their top three.</p><p>While <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4272">Lucas Giolito</a> is still in line to be Boston's fourth starter, the right-hander left Tuesday's Grapefruit league start against the Philadelphia Phillies with hamstring tightness.</p><p>Giolito, who missed last season while recovering from elbow surgery, will undergo an MRI on Wednesday, manager Alex Cora said, according to <a href="https://x.com/IanMBrowne/status/1899560899175665755">Ian Browne of MLB.com</a>. However, Cora did not seem too concerned by the development, and Giolito also seemed nonplussed, noting that the issue felt "very minor," according to <a href="https://x.com/MacCerullo/status/1899528877250400563">Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald</a>.</p><p>Meanwhile, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> had his spring debut pushed back to Saturday, according to Cora. The three-time All-Star was expected to get into his first spring game Wednesday after he spent much of the offseason recovering from shoulder issues.</p><p>The 28-year-old has been taking live batting practice and is still expected to be ready for Opening Day.</p>

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 18: Brayan Bello #66 of the Boston Red Sox looks on during photo day before a Spring Training workout at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida on February 18, 2025.

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Here are the 2025 fantasy starting pitcher rankings for standard 5x5 leagues.  Note: Rankings upd...

<p>Here are the 2025 fantasy starting pitcher rankings for standard 5x5 leagues.</p><p><em>Note: Rankings updated following injuries to Gerrit Cole, George Kirby, and Grayson Rodriguez. </em></p><p><strong>Rankings</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219001" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219001">Top 200</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222306" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222306">C</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222223" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222223">1B</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3222209" href="https://thescore.com/news/3222209">2B</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220988" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220988">3B</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220983" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220983">SS</a> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220968" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220968">OF</a> | <em><strong>SP</strong></em> | <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220844" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220844">RP</a></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Top 30 Starting pitchers" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m4tZ2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m4tZ2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="2252" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";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=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();</script></figure><p><strong>Why Skenes' No. 1: </strong>Skenes took baseball by storm last season. The Pirates ace needed only 23 starts to win Rookie of the Year, started the All-Star Game, and finished third in NL Cy Young voting. If Skenes makes 32 starts in 2025, we might see the first 300-strikeout campaign since 2019.</p><p><strong>Player worth reaching for: </strong>Ragans has been one of the top starters since being traded to Kansas City during the 2023 season, and it doesn't look like he'll slow down. The 27-year-old has struck out nearly 11 hitters per nine innings in a Royals uniform while maintaining a strong ERA (3.00), FIP (2.85), and WHIP (1.12).</p><p><strong>Dark-horse pick: </strong>Ronel Blanco had quite a season for the Astros in 2024, which included throwing a no-hitter in his first start of the year and pitching seven hitless innings last June. Blanco's FIP over the previous campaign was a little concerning (4.15), but he maintained a low ERA (2.80), solid K/9 (8.9), and didn't give up a lot of hits (6.1 H/9).</p>

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2025 fantasy baseball rankings: Starting pitcher

New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole is out for the season after the club announced Monday that he ne...

<p>New York Yankees ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> is out for the season after the club announced Monday that he needs Tommy John surgery to repair his right elbow.</p><p>Cole will undergo the procedure Tuesday in Los Angeles.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHCSrq6xWcq/?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/p/DHCSrq6xWcq/?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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<script async src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The 34-year-old complained of soreness after he allowed six earned runs in 2 2/3 innings in a spring outing March 6 against the Minnesota Twins. He subsequently underwent diagnostic testing and then visited Dr. Neal ElAttrache for a second opinion after admitting to being "concerned" about his elbow. Dr. ElAttrache will perform Cole's surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cole also visited Dr. ElAttrache last March after experiencing elbow issues in spring training. At that time, surgery was ruled out, and Cole instead rested for nearly two months. He returned to the Yankees' rotation in June and made 17 starts down the stretch, plus another five during their AL pennant run.</p><p>Cole had taken steps to avoid a repeat of what happened in 2024 by beginning his spring throwing program earlier than usual, according to <a href="https://x.com/BrendanKutyNJ/status/1898229569544441920">Brendan Kuty of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The 2023 AL Cy Young winner has been one of baseball's top starters since joining the Yankees, winning 59 games with a 3.12 ERA and 10.8 K/9 in 125 starts.</p><p>Cole briefly opted out of the final four years of his contract in November. However, he changed his mind when the Yankees informed him they wouldn't void the move by adding a guaranteed 10th year to his deal. He's now owed $144 million through 2028.</p><p>New York will likely rely on a rotation of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a> with Cole and fellow starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a> out of action. Other internal rotation options include non-roster invitees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/158" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/158">Carlos Carrasco</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14073" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14073">Sean Boyle</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9863" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9863">Brandon Leibrandt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18903" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18903">Erick Leal</a>.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 15: Gerrit Cole #45 of the New York Yankees reacts in the third inning against the Cleveland Guardians during Game Two of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 15, 2024 in New York City.

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Cole to undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery

The Los Angeles Dodgers signed longtime manager Dave Roberts to a four-year contract extension, t...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers signed longtime manager Dave Roberts to a four-year contract extension, they announced.</p><p>Roberts' new deal, which covers the 2026-29 seasons, is worth $32.4 million, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1899180292541485072">ESPN's Alden González</a>. The contract's $8.1-million average annual value sets a new standard for managers, beating the previous record set by Chicago Cubs skipper Craig Counsell.</p><p>"We could not be more thrilled about continuing our long-running partnership with Dave," Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/1899612022700159434">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>. "As we've preached time and time again, continuity and stability are staples of this organization, and we are incredibly excited that this agreement allows us to maintain our focus of working together towards bringing more championships to Los Angeles. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Dave's leadership both on the field and in the clubhouse elevates those around him and allows our players to go and perform at an elite level night in and night out. He has become a strong presence in the community, and represents all the best qualities of our organization."</p><p>The sides had been negotiating the agreement for several weeks, aiming to complete the deal before the team traveled to Japan to play the Chicago Cubs. Roberts' contract was announced shortly after the team completed its Cactus League schedule.</p><p>"I can't talk so much about it, but I do think that there's finally some closure," Roberts said Monday before the deal was made official, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/SonjaMChen/status/1899237692518654188">Sonja Chen of MLB.com</a>. "I'm excited. Obviously, this is the place I want to be. I'm sure I'll go into it more, but hopefully, there's an announcement coming soon."</p><p>The 52-year-old has managed the Dodgers since 2016, winning 851 regular-season games, four NL pennants, and two World Series titles.</p><p>Roberts was also named NL Manager of the Year in 2016 and won a World Series as a player with the Boston Red Sox in 2004.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - AUGUST 15: Dave Roberts #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers before the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on August 15, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Dodgers, Roberts agree on record 4-year, $32.4M extension

Retired catcher Yadier Molina is interested in a return to MLB - this time as a manager.  Molina'...

<p>Retired catcher Yadier Molina is interested in a return to MLB - this time as a manager.</p><p>Molina's priority since retiring has been spending time with family, but the 19-year veteran told <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6187972/2025/03/10/cardinals-yadier-molina-interview/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Katie Woo</a> that he hopes to one day manage a major-league team. While Molina's preference is to work with the St. Louis Cardinals, where he spent his entire playing career, he added that he's open to managing anywhere if the opportunity arises, even with their bitter rivals.</p><p>"I'm loyal to the people that helped me out and supported me for many years," Molina said. "I feel like I'm part of the city, even if I'm away from them right now.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"But this is baseball, right? If we decide as a family, if I have a chance to manage, I can manage anywhere. … I'd manage the Chicago Cubs, if they want."</p><p>Molina stepped away from baseball following the 2022 campaign, capping what many consider a Hall of Fame career with nearly two decades in the sport.</p><p>The backstop was a 10-time All-Star, nine-time Gold Glove winner, four-time Platinum Glove winner, and two-time World Series champion during his big-league career. </p><p>The 42-year-old still maintains an advisory role with the Cardinals. He's also managed Team Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic as well as various winter ball teams.</p>

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - OCTOBER 12: Catcher Yadier Molina #4 of the St. Louis Cardinals walks off the field after the sixth inning of game two of the National League Championship Series against the Washington Nationals at Busch Stadium on October 12, 2019 in St Louis, Missouri.

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Yadi open to managing in MLB - even for the Cubs, 'if they want'

The Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a major-league deal with right-hander Dillon Tate, sources told S...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays agreed to a major-league deal with right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5391" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5391">Dillon Tate</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ArdenZwelling/status/1899109712324628711">Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling</a>.</p><p>The Blue Jays non-tendered Tate in November after he made four appearances for the club in 2024 following a waiver claim.</p><p>The 30-year-old posted a 5.40 ERA with four strikeouts during those outings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tate pitched five seasons with the Orioles before joining the Blue Jays, authoring a 3.98 FIP and 1.15 WHIP in 186 appearances. </p><p>Toronto has added several new pieces to its bullpen this winter with the acquisitions of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3943" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3943">Yimi García</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12325" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12325">Nick Sandlin</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10603" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10603">Erik Swanson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10130" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10130">Ryan Burr</a> are also sidelined because of injuries. Swanson is scheduled to visit Dr. Keith Meister in Texas on Thursday.</p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 19: Dillon Tate #33 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches during the sixth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on September 19, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Report: Blue Jays agree to deal with Tate

Former American League MVP Mo Vaughn recently admitted to using human growth hormone during his p...

<p>Former American League MVP Mo Vaughn recently admitted to using human growth hormone during his playing career.</p><p>"I was trying to do everything I could," Vaughn told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6188748/2025/03/10/mo-vaughn-hgh-mitchell-report/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=twhq&amp;source=twitterhq">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>. "I knew I had a bad, degenerative knee. I was shooting HGH in my knee. Whatever I could do to help the process."</p><p>Vaughn was one of 89 players named in 2007's Mitchell Report, which revealed players who allegedly used performance-enhancing drugs. Former New York Mets batboy and clubhouse employee Kirk Radomski, who reportedly supplied Vaughn with HGH, provided most of the names in the report.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Vaughan was one of MLB's top sluggers from 1993-98 while playing for the Boston Red Sox. During that time, the Connecticut native earned the 1995 AL MVP, three All-Star nods, and a Silver Slugger.</p><p>He retired following the 2003 season after hitting 328 home runs with a .906 OPS in 1,512 games between the Red Sox, Anaheim Angels, and New York Mets.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 15: Former Red Sox player Mo Vaughn walks to the pitchers mound before the ceremonial first pitch on Opening Day at Fenway Park on April 15, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day.

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Former MVP Mo Vaughn admits to HGH use during career

New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez needs surgery and will miss six-to-eight weeks after frac...

<p>New York Mets catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10690" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10690">Francisco Alvarez</a> needs surgery and will miss six-to-eight weeks after fracturing the hamate bone in his left wrist, manager Carlos Mendoza <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1898747823866187858">told SNY</a> on Sunday.</p><p>"It's a big blow when your starting catcher goes down, but guys will step up," Mendoza said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1898750472703324240">SNY</a>.</p><p>The 23-year-old backstop sustained the injury Saturday during live batting practice.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mendoza said the Mets feel good about their other catchers, but he anticipates the front office will look outside the organization for potential fits during Alvarez's absence.</p><p>The Mets have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8344" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8344">Luis Torrens</a> on the 40-man roster, with backstops <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12392" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12392">Jakson Reetz</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15518" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15518">Kevin Parada</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12884" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12884">Hayden Senger</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12730" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12730">Chris Williams</a> in camp as non-roster invites.</p><p>Alvarez slashed .237/.307/.403 with 11 home runs and 47 RBIs in 100 games last season after belting 25 homers with a .721 OPS in 2023. </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 19: New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez (4) is looked at by first base coach Antoan Richardson after being injured during the MLB game between the New York Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers on April 19, 2024 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

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Mets' Alvarez out 6-8 weeks after fracturing wrist bone

The Seattle Mariners will begin the regular season without one of their best starters.  Right-han...

<p>The Seattle Mariners will begin the regular season without one of their best starters.</p><p>Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12378">George Kirby</a> was shut down from throwing because of shoulder inflammation, according to <a href="https://x.com/RyanDivish/status/1898110883945234575">Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times</a>.</p><p>Kirby, 27, underwent an MRI that showed no structural damage, but he will begin the 2025 campaign on the injured list, Divish <a href="https://x.com/RyanDivish/status/1898111155698360533">added</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>With no timeline for Kirby's return, getting the inflammation out of his shoulder will determine when he comes back, according to <a href="https://x.com/shannondrayer/status/1898112713404068234">Mariners reporter Shannon Drayer</a>.</p><p>Kirby is part of a formidable Mariners rotation that also includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12376" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12376">Logan Gilbert</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5526" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5526">Luis Castillo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15727" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15727">Bryce Miller</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16278" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16278">Bryan Woo</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12377" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12377">Emerson Hancock</a> is an option to start with Kirby sidelined.</p><p>Kirby owns a 3.43 ERA and 3.22 FIP in 511 2/3 innings since debuting in 2022. He was an All-Star and finished eighth in AL Cy Young voting in the 2023 campaign.</p>

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 26: George Kirby #68 of the Seattle Mariners reacts during the fifth inning against the Houston Astros at T-Mobile Park on September 26, 2023 in Seattle, Washington.

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Mariners' Kirby to start season on IL due to shoulder inflammation

The Athletics and outfielder Lawrence Butler agreed to a seven-year contract extension with a clu...

<p>The Athletics and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14243" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14243">Lawrence Butler</a> agreed to a seven-year contract extension with a club option, the team announced.</p><p>Butler's deal is worth $65.5 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1897866114777891304">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>Butler receives a $3-million signing bonus, and his salary will increase every season from 2025 until 2031, according to <a href="https://x.com/EvanDrellich/status/1898098585276715348">The Athletic's Evan Drellich</a>. The deal reportedly includes a $20-million club option in 2032 with a $4-million buyout.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Season</th>
<th>Butler's salary</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2025</td>
<td>$2.25M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2026</td>
<td>$3M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2027</td>
<td>$5M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2028</td>
<td>$8M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2029</td>
<td>$10M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2030</td>
<td>$14M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2031</td>
<td>$16M</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Butler put together a breakout season in 2024. The 24-year-old posted a 131 OPS+ with 22 home runs, 57 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases across 125 games for the Athletics last season.</p><p>Butler took his game to another level after the All-Star break, finishing the season with 13 home runs, 32 RBIs, 17 doubles, and an .898 OPS over the final 61 games.</p><p>He joined <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> and Ralph Kiner as the only players age 24 or younger in MLB history with a pair of three-home run games in the same season, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1897871248245281039">MLB.com's Sarah Langs</a>.</p><p>The Athletics have had a busy offseason, signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4775" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4775">Luis Severino</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5726" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5726">Jeffrey Springs</a> to bolster the rotation while also adding veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4969" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4969">José Leclerc</a>. The club locked up Silver Slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9582" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9582">Brent Rooker</a> to a five-year, $60-million extension in January as well.</p><p>The Athletics are set to play home games at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento this season as the franchise awaits the completion of its new stadium in Las Vegas.</p>

PEORIA, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 26: Lawrence Butler #4 of the Athletics bats against the Seattle Mariners during the first inning of the MLB game at Peoria Stadium on February 26, 2025 in Peoria, Arizona.

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A's, Butler agree to 7-year extension reportedly worth $65.5M

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman provided updates about two injured players Thursda...

<p>New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman provided updates about two injured players Thursday and the news wasn't good.</p><p>Cashman <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1897682803703050748">said</a> right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a> was sent to New York for additional testing, which confirmed the pitcher has a high-grade lat strain in his right shoulder and would be shut down for six weeks, according to the <a href="https://x.com/GJoyce9/status/1897684056017354891">New York Post's Greg Joyce</a>.</p><p>The executive estimated the 2024 AL Rookie of the Year will be out three months and the hope is he will return to the Yankees "sometime in the summer," according to <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1897685676633518280">MLB.com's Bryan Hoch</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cashman also said designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a> had a second round of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in his injured elbows and is expected to rejoin the Yankees this weekend, although he won't participate in baseball activities.</p><p>"We look forward to getting him back at some point, but obviously in the near term, that won't be the case," Cashman <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1897684090305802333">said</a> when asked to provide a timetable for Stanton's return. </p><p>Cashman added surgery won't be ruled out for Stanton, but it "would be a last resort."</p><p>Stanton's injuries are apparently similar to tennis elbow. They have hampered the former MVP since last year when he had a turnaround campaign for the Yankees in the regular season and playoffs.</p><p> </p>

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - MAY 29: Luis Gil #81 of the New York Yankees reacts as he leaves the mound after the third Los Angeles Angels out to end the fifth inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 29, 2024 in Anaheim, California.

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Cashman: Gil out 3 months; Stanton gets more injections on elbows

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Bryan Mcwilliam

News Editor

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Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

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