The NL Central once again belongs to the Milwaukee Brewers.  The Brew Crew clinched a third divis...

The NL Central once again belongs to the Milwaukee Brewers.The Brew Crew clinched a third division title in four seasons after the Chicago Cubs' 5-3 loss to the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday. Bottles were popped a few hours later after Milwaukee walked off the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 at American Family Field.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
That <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Postseason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Postseason</a> feeling 🍾 Pat Murphy shares some words with his team after the <a href="https://twitter.com/Brewers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Brewers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CLINCHED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CLINCHED</a> the NL Central! <a href="https://t.co/z0qhOxa2dk">pic.twitter.com/z0qhOxa2dk</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1836598875441799447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Legendary Brewers announcer Bob Uecker even joined in the celebration and, in typical Ueck fashion, had everyone on the floor.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pat Murphy: “There is no one who epitomizes being a champion like this man does.” Bob Uecker: “I peed my pants!” <a href="https://t.co/VnNMmmNP2v">pic.twitter.com/VnNMmmNP2v</a>— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1836596571212853713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Brewers also came prepared to accommodate rookie outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14481" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14481">Jackson Chourio</a>, who's not of legal drinking age. The 20-year-old was provided with non-alcoholic champagne for the occasion, stored appropriately inside a baby carriage.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Brewers were ready with non-alcoholic beer and champagne — in a baby carriage — for the 20-year-old Jackson Chourio. <a href="https://t.co/wKEx6D5DLH">pic.twitter.com/wKEx6D5DLH</a>— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1836598842868830637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Milwaukee is the first MLB team to clinch a playoff spot in 2024, although preseason projections gave the club less than a 50% chance of making the postseason.The Brewers also had to deal with the departures of former manager Craig Counsell and ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> and injuries to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8683" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8683">Brandon Woodruff</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3338" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3338">Christian Yelich</a>.Yelich said clinching the division this season was "up there" in terms of personal satisfaction with making the playoffs in 2018 because the Brewers were widely underestimated and overcame so much adversity.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Christian Yelich has been part of all six of the Brewers’ postseason berths in the last seven years, including four division titles. This is up there with 2018 as the most satisfying, he said. Here’s why. <a href="https://t.co/vbMhbftnMU">pic.twitter.com/vbMhbftnMU</a>— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1836519590572233100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Brewers have now made the postseason six times in the last seven years. The only time they missed the playoffs during that period came in 2022 when the club finished one game out of the final NL wild-card spot with a 86-76 record.It's the first time the Brewers have won back-to-back division titles since 1981-82. Milwaukee now turns its attention to chasing down the Los Angeles Dodgers for the second seed in the NL. Doing so would secure an automatic bye to the NLDS.The Brewers enter Wednesday evening's slate two games behind the Dodgers and need to finish with a better record after losing the season series 4-3.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 18: The Milwaukee Brewers take a team photo after winning the NL Central Division at American Family Field on September 18, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Brewers win NL Central for 3rd time in 4 seasons

The Baltimore Orioles designated right-hander Craig Kimbrel for assignment Wednesday, the team an...

The Baltimore Orioles designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1378">Craig Kimbrel</a> for assignment Wednesday, the team announced.The 36-year-old posted a 5.33 ERA with 23 saves in 52 1/3 innings after the Orioles signed him to a one-year, $12-million contract in December."He's a Hall of Famer to me," Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1836497225297563979">MLB.com's Jake Rill</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"And so to have that conversation about it, about, 'Is this the time?' That’s never easy. Craig's done some amazing things in his career. … I have a ton, a ton of respect for that."Kimbrel allowed six earned runs in 2/3 of an inning on Tuesday during a 10-0 loss to the San Francisco Giants.The nine-time All-Star was solid before the All-Star break, authoring a 2.80 ERA with a 13.5 K/9 in 39 appearances. But he's since struggled to a 10.59 ERA and 2.17 WHIP in 18 appearances.Hyde called Kimbrel "an amazing teammate and class act" for continuing to help out teammates even though he was struggling, according to <a href="https://x.com/masnSteve/status/1836497290271289727">MASN's Steve Melewski</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9732" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9732">Seranthony Domínguez</a>, who was acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies before the trade deadline, assumed the closer's role in Baltimore after Kimbrel failed to keep hold of it.The Orioles' bullpen, a strength in past seasons, ranks 12th in FIP and 21st in ERA.Baltimore recalled right-hander Bryan Baker from Triple-A Norfolk in a corresponding move.

DENVER, COLORADO - AUGUST 31: Craig Kimbrel #46 of the Baltimore Orioles looks on as he pitches in the eighth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on August 31, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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Orioles designate Kimbrel for assignment

New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso isn't worried about his future with the only franchise he...

New York Mets first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a> isn't worried about his future with the only franchise he's known and his pending free agency on the horizon.The slugger said he has "a gut feeling" the Mets will make the playoffs and that his discussions with the club will work out positively in free agency, according to the <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/09/17/sports/pete-alonso-confident-this-wont-be-final-mets-homestand/">New York Post's Joel Sherman</a>."Whatever happens in free agency happens. I'm not really too concerned about that," Alonso said.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 29-year-old is in the midst of his worst season but has still produced a .246/.331/.474 slash line with 33 home runs, 31 doubles, and 82 RBIs in 151 games.Alonso said the 2024 campaign "necessarily isn't my standard," and his focus down the stretch is to win and "contribute to the winning culture."As his free agency has approached, the slugger's future in New York has been a talking point for the past couple of seasons. He reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2914477" href="https://thescore.com/news/2914477">rejected</a> a seven-year, $158-million extension from the Mets in June 2023 but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2940114" href="https://thescore.com/news/2940114">expressed a desire</a> to remain in New York in July amid trade rumors.Alonso enters free agency as one of the top players available after six terrific seasons with the Mets, hitting 225 homers and posting an .858 OPS in 835 games.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 14: Pete Alonso #20 of the New York Mets reacts after a two-run home run against the Colorado Rockies during the fourth inning at Citi Field on July 14, 2024 in the Queens borough of New York City.

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Alonso not concerned about Mets' future, has 'gut feeling' it'll work out

Gerrit Cole didn't want any part of Rafael Devers on Saturday, which wound up costing him and the...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> didn't want any part of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> on Saturday, which wound up costing him and the New York Yankees in a 7-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox.Cole, who had also plunked Devers earlier in the game, intentionally walked the slugging third baseman with nobody on and one out in the fourth inning of a no-hitter.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Gerrit Cole shows Rafael Devers the ultimate sign of respect and intentionally walks him with the bases empty 🫡 <a href="https://t.co/XQzIc2DrrO">pic.twitter.com/XQzIc2DrrO</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1835018282572664964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Devers wound up stealing second base and coming around to score the tying run.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cole's decision to grant a free base to Devers drew criticism from multiple sources, including Red Sox manager Alex Cora and pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a>."It was intentional. He didn't want to face him," Cora said, noting that the previous at-bat ended in a HBP, according to <a href="https://x.com/byJulianMack/status/1835049558650315205">The Boston Globe's Julian McWilliams</a>.Bello, who started opposite Cole on Saturday, also called his counterpart weak for hitting Devers and issuing him an intentional walk."I don't know what to tell you. (Cole) showed a lot of weakness with that move," Bello said, according to <a href="https://x.com/byJulianMack/status/1835052493929161159">McWilliams</a>.Yankees manager Aaron Boone admitted postgame that New York had a game plan to intentionally walk Devers in certain situations but preferred that Cole didn't do it at that point."I should have been more demanding, like, let's get after him right now," Boone said, according to <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1835049580381024285">MLB.com's Bryan Hoch</a>.Cole acknowledged postgame that issuing the free pass was a mistake."Looking back, it's the wrong move," Cole said, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisKirschner/status/1835060468504743974">Chris Kirschner of The Athletic</a>.Cole recently admitted on Hispanic Heritage Day that the Red Sox third baseman is the Latin hitter who he has the most trouble getting out.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
On Hispanic Heritage Day, Gerrit Cole was asked which Latin hitter has given him the most trouble in his career: "Rafael Devers" 😂 <a href="https://t.co/RAXLVIRaJj">pic.twitter.com/RAXLVIRaJj</a>— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/snyyankees/status/1833639566269350176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The former Cy Young winner completely unraveled after the intentional pass and was removed from the game in the fifth inning after allowing seven earned runs on five hits, three walks, and three hit batters.One of those hits was courtesy of Devers, who laced <a href="https://x.com/MLB/status/1835022431389413729">a two-RBI single</a> into the right-field gap off Cole in the fifth.Devers entered Saturday's game hitting .341/.438/.951 with eight home runs and 19 RBIs against Cole in 41 career at-bats.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 14: Gerrit Cole #45 of the New York Yankees pitches during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on September 14, 2024 in New York City.

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Red Sox rip Yankees' Cole after he avoids, plunks Devers

Teoscar Hernández is enjoying his first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and he'd like to con...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> is enjoying his first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and he'd like to continue his career with the franchise on a more long-term basis."It's been great. I want to stay. I think everybody knows it," Hernández said during Friday's <a href="https://x.com/DMAC_LA/status/1834981200899064224">Apple TV</a> broadcast against the Atlanta Braves."I want to be part of this team for three, four, five years, but it's not in my hands. It has to do with the Dodgers. It's in their hands."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hernandez is having a tremendous season for the Dodgers, providing additional thump (28 home runs, .821 OPS) to a lineup that already has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a>.The 31-year-old Home Run Derby champion has <a href="https://dodgerblue.com/teoscar-hernandez-hopes-to-skip-free-agency-sign-long-term-with-dodgers/2024/07/20/">said</a> on more than one occasion he'd like to avoid free agency again if possible and mentioned the Dodgers as a preferred landing spot.Hernández signed a one-year, $23.5-million contract last January. He'll be one of the top position players available in free agency this offseason.

LOS ANGELES, CA - AUGUST 05: Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernandez (37) celebrates with Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Jason Heyward (23) after hitting a home run during the MLB game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers on August 5, 2024 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

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Hernández looking to join Dodgers long term: 'Everybody knows it'

The Minnesota Twins reinstated shortstop Carlos Correa from the 10-day injured list, the team ann...

The Minnesota Twins reinstated shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992">Carlos Correa</a> from the 10-day injured list, the team announced Saturday.Correa hasn't played since July 12 due to plantar fasciitis.The 29-year-old didn't go through a rehab process but told reporters this week that he's "very encouraged" by his progress and it's the best he's felt in a long time, according to <a href="https://x.com/DanHayesMLB/status/1833242925565669830">The Athletic's Dan Hayes</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Correa was slashing .308/.377/.520 with 13 home runs and 47 RBIs in 75 games before the injury."I'm going in very positive. I feel great," Correa said, per <a href="https://x.com/AaronGleeman/status/1835061566762320137">The Athletic's Aaron Gleeman</a>. "Trying to get my rhythm right away and contribute off the bat."The Twins, who activated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4126" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4126">Byron Buxton</a> from the IL on Thursday, are nearly back to full strength with 15 games remaining.Minnesota is clinging onto the American League's last playoff spot, sitting 2.5 games ahead of the Detroit Tigers and 3.5 games in front of the Seattle Mariners.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JULY 03: Carlos Correa #4 of the Minnesota Twins exits the field against the Detroit Tigers in the ninth inning at Target Field on July 03, 2024 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Tigers defeated the Twins 9-2.

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Twins activate Correa from IL for playoff push

Yusei Kikuchi has been terrific since joining the Houston Astros at the trade deadline, and the l...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10619" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10619">Yusei Kikuchi</a> has been terrific since joining the Houston Astros at the trade deadline, and the left-hander admitted that the initial criticism of his acquisition has led to his success.Kikuchi said Friday that he "heard a lot of what the fans had to say" after the Astros acquired the 33-year-old from the Toronto Blue Jays for a steep prospect haul and has used the comments as fuel to perform well, according to <a href="https://x.com/Chandler_Rome/status/1834814907298332813">The Athletic's Chandler Rome</a>.Houston acquired Kikuchi, a pending free agent at the end of the season, from the Toronto Blue Jays for its No. 2, No. 5, and No. 19 prospects, which looked like a fleecing at first glance.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kikuchi was also surprised with the package and said, "I was shocked myself that this team gave up three prospects," per Rome.While the price to acquire Kikuchi was hefty, the southpaw has anchored Houston's banged-up starting rotation as the Astros attempt to win their seventh division title in the last eight seasons. Kikuchi owns a 5-0 record with a 3.19 ERA and 11.1 K/9 in eight starts with Houston.The Astros enter play Saturday 4.5 games ahead of the Seattle Mariners for the top spot in the American League West.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 31: Yusei Kikuchi #16 of the Houston Astros celebrates after striking out Salvador Perez #13 of the Kansas City Royals in the sixth inning at Minute Maid Park on August 31, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Astros' Kikuchi fueled by what 'fans had to say' following trade

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc had a brilliant qualifying session Saturday in Baku to take pole positi...

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc had a brilliant qualifying session Saturday in Baku to take pole position for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with McLaren's Oscar Piastri finishing second and Carlos Sainz placing third.Lando Norris, who's attempting to chase down Red Bull's Max Verstappen for the drivers' championship, begins 16th on the grid after failing to move past Saturday's Q1. Norris was originally supposed to begin Sunday's race in 17th position, but Alpine's Pierre Gasly was disqualified for a fuel flow breach after qualifying was completed.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Azerbaijan GP Qualifying" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-TD9bd" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/TD9bd/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="911" 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>Leclerc's result continues his qualifying dominance in Baku, where he's taken pole position in four consecutive years. However, he's never won the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.Norris had an unlucky qualifying session and failed to get in a second lap during Q1, which he said he believes would've put him near the front of the grid. The McLaren driver backed off during his last run with yellow flags displayed following an incident with Alpine's Esteban Ocon.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Norris tells Sky he had to lift in response to the yellow flags: "Everyone did their second laps, and I didn’t. Just unlucky, that’s all." "I’m still hopeful we can get a good result. I think the car is quick. The lap I was on, I would have gone 2nd. But nothing I can do." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a>— Luke Smith (@LukeSmithF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/LukeSmithF1/status/1834931964588990846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Verstappen will begin in sixth position. It'll be the first time Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez will start ahead of him on the grid since Miami 2023. Verstappen enters Sunday 62 points ahead of Norris and 86 in front of Leclerc for the top of the drivers' championship.Williams had an interesting session. Franco Colapinto recovered from a crash during Friday's first practice to qualify ninth. He's the first Argentine driver to qualify in the top 10 since Carlos Reutemann in 1982. Colapinto finished one position ahead of teammate Alex Albon, who was sent out for his final lap with an airbox fan still attached.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
What a weird mistake to make from Williams 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/wu5HaA2HDZ">pic.twitter.com/wu5HaA2HDZ</a>— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) <a href="https://twitter.com/SkySportsF1/status/1834940907633733803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Stewards issued Williams a £5,000 fine for the incident.

BAKU, AZERBAIJAN - SEPTEMBER 14: Pole position qualifier Charles Leclerc of Monaco and Ferrari celebrates in parc ferme during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September 14, 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

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Leclerc claims pole position in Baku, Norris starts 16th in bid for title

The New York Mets called up Luisangel Acuña, the younger brother of Atlanta Braves superstar Rona...

The New York Mets called up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12167" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12167">Luisangel Acuña</a>, the younger brother of Atlanta Braves superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuña Jr.</a>, the team announced Saturday.He'll make his major-league debut against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday, hitting ninth and playing shortstop.Acuña is the 12th-ranked prospect in the Mets' farm system. The 22-year-old has been stationed at Triple-A Syracuse for the 2024 season, hitting .258/.299/.355 with seven homers and 14 steals over 131 games while playing shortstop, center field, and second base.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Mets acquired Acuña at last year's trade deadline in the blockbuster deal that sent right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> to the Texas Rangers.New York had planned to call Acuña up before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> exited Friday night's game against the Philadelphia Phillies due to back soreness, according to <a href="https://x.com/NYPost_Mets/status/1834915109002424361">Mike Puma of the New York Post</a>.In a corresponding move, the Mets optioned outfielder DJ Stewart to Triple-A.The Mets continue their three-game set in Philadelphia on Saturday. They're 81-66, seven games back of the Phillies for the division lead and holding a one-game lead over the Braves for the final NL wild-card spot.

West Palm Beach, FL.: New York Mets second baseman Luisangel Acuna throwing a baseball during a spring training game against the Washington Nationals, on February 26, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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Mets call up Luisangel Acuña

New York Yankees right-hander Marcus Stroman will miss his next turn in the starting rotation but...

New York Yankees right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a> will miss his next turn in the starting rotation but will be available to pitch out of the bullpen Sunday, manager Aaron Boone announced Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1834685030087770245">MLB.com's Bryan Hoch</a>.The Yankees' decision cuts their rotation from six starters to five, with Boone adding that the club could stick with that number again next week. However, shifting Stroman to the bullpen isn't necessarily permanent, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1834684437734330436">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>.The change is similar to what New York did with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9727" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9727">Nestor Cortes</a> for a Sept. 7 game against the Chicago Cubs.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cortes, who Boone said Friday will make his next start, pitched in relief after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a> began the contest. Cortes was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3069557" href="https://thescore.com/news/3069557">upset</a> about the switch despite pitching well in the game.Stroman didn't appear bothered by the move."Stro has been so good for us and so good in the room," Boone said, according to <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1834709244337426889">Hoch</a>. "He's all about that team in there and all about the guys in there. Basically, his message to me is, 'Whatever you need, and I'll be ready to go.' I think he just wants to be part of a winner."Stroman has been steady during his first campaign with the Yankees, posting a 4.07 ERA in 148 1/3 innings. But the 33-year-old's second-half results haven't been as good as his first.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Splits</th>
<th>1st HALF</th>
<th>2nd HALF</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ERA</td>
<td>3.51</td>
<td>5.40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OPP BA</td>
<td>.237</td>
<td>.332</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WHIP</td>
<td>1.32</td>
<td>1.69</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Yankees rotation consisted of Stroman, Cortes, Schmidt, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a>.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 11: Marcus Stroman #0 of the New York Yankees heads to the dugout before taking on the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on June 11, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Yankees' Stroman to miss turn in rotation, pitch out of bullpen

The Texas Rangers signed general manager Chris Young to a multi-year contract extension, the team...

The Texas Rangers signed general manager Chris Young to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Friday.Young was also promoted from executive vice president and general manager to president of baseball operations, according to the announcement."His leadership and vision were instrumental in helping bring a World Series championship to Arlington for the first time, and he is passionate about producing a consistent winner on the field year in and year out for our fans,” Rangers owner Ray Davis said, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3073888" href="https://thescore.com/news/3073888">The Associated Press</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The exact length and financial terms of the agreement aren't known at this time. Young's contract was set to expire at the end of the 2024 season.The 45-year-old executive joined the Rangers in December 2020 and assumed the lead role of the organization's baseball operations department in August 2022."The Texas Rangers organization holds a very special place for me, and I am excited to continue building on what we've started here," Young said. "While the opportunity to a be a part of a World Series championship in my hometown was a tremendous thrill, our goal is to field a club that can contend for playoff berths every season."Young is responsible for signing core players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3924" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3924">Corey Seager</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a> to long-term deals before the Rangers' 2023 World Series run.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 03: General Manager Chris Young of the Texas Rangers waves to fans during the World Series Championship parade at Globe Life Field on November 03, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.

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Rangers sign GM Young to multi-year extension

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts hasn't ruled out the idea of Shohei Ohtani pitching out ...

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts hasn't ruled out the idea of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> pitching out of the bullpen this postseason."I wouldn't say no way ... I'm not going to close the door 100%," Roberts said, according to <a href="https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2024-09-12/shohei-ohtani-dodgers-playoff-relief-pitching">Bill Plaschke of the Los Angeles Times</a>.Ohtani hasn't pitched for the Dodgers since signing a 10-year, $700-million contract in December. The two-way sensation wasn't expected to pitch in 2025 after undergoing elbow surgery last September.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 30-year-old has never pitched in relief outside of the World Baseball Classic. He's progressed well during his rehabilitation and threw a successful bullpen session Aug. 24.While the excitement of the Dodgers' prized player coming out of the bullpen to shut down the opposition in the playoffs sounds like a storybook moment, Roberts remains realistic about the chances of it happening."If I was scripting a movie or writing a book, it would be a no-brainer that he comes out of rehabilitation and throws the last pitch," Roberts said. "The problem is, in reality, he hasn't thrown a leverage pitch in over a year. If he were to come out, and it does go awry, it's not worth (a) potential injury. You just cannot duplicate the stress of that one inning. I just don't think it's worth it."

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws before the game against the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium on September 10, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Roberts: 'Not going to close the door' on using Ohtani as playoff reliever

Here, we look at how Canelo Álvarez, one of the world's most popular fighters, stacks up against ...

Here, we look at how Canelo Álvarez, one of the world's most popular fighters, stacks up against title challenger Edgar Berlanga ahead of Saturday's fight for the super middleweight championship. Odds courtesy of theScore Bet.It's been five months since Canelo Álvarez last defended his super middleweight titles, and the wrecking ball known as "Cinnamon" is ready to step into the ring once again.After handing Jaime Munguia his first loss in May, Álvarez's next challenge comes in the form of undefeated knockout specialist Edgar Berlanga, a Puerto Rican sensation who began his professional career with 16 straight first-round knockouts.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Berlanga has become more of a polished fighter over his last six fights as his competition has stiffened, but his power is undeniable and could be a game-changer against the champion Álvarez."100%," Berlanga said recently when asked by <a href="https://youtu.be/wjGP85ZsYeU?si=f-ZdflYLXE0weSJ3">DAZN</a> if he is the hardest puncher Canelo has ever faced.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oTYfMaduugA?si=y0QS9kOQiT2XnVc3" 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>While Berlanga possesses terrifying power, he lacks the experience and resume of Álvarez. One of boxing's most decorated fighters, Álvarez continues to perform well into his mid-30s.Since losing a May 2022 light heavyweight contest to Dmitry Bivol, Álvarez has won four consecutive fights against Gennady Golovkin, John Ryder, Jermell Charlo, and Munguia. He completely overmatched Charlo over 12 rounds and weathered an early storm from Munguia before settling in for a unanimous decision victory.The champion remains a rabid body puncher and is one of boxing's smartest fighters. That could be problematic for the less-experienced Berlanga, who's had mental lapses against seasoned fighters.The 27-year-old Brooklyn native struggled against veteran Marcelo Esteban Coceres in October 2021, and he became so frustrated against Roamer Alexis Angulo in June 2022 that he attempted to bite his opponent's shoulder. Berlanga won the fight but was later suspended for six months for the incident.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FUFnpqzm5gw?si=TrtIR1FHtEcCBdAQ" 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>Álvarez enters the fight believing his experience and intellect are already too much for Berlanga to handle."No, no chance," Canelo <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXt-cmiag5Y">replied</a> during a Premier Boxing Champions promotional video when asked if there's a chance Berlanga beats him."The experience I have, the intelligence, my boxing ability. I've already won Sept. 14."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2h9zR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2h9zR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="289" 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>Will Canelo reign supreme, potentially setting up a superfight with David Benavidez? Or will Berlanga take his first step toward super middleweight dominance with an upset victory over the boxing legend?We'll find out this Saturday in Las Vegas when Mexico battles Puerto Rico. Let's get it on!

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 6: Canelo Alvarez (L) and Edgar Berlanga (R) show up at the press conference before their match in Las Vegas on September 14, in Beverly Hills of Los Angeles, California, United States on August 6, 2024.

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Tale of the Tape: Canelo Álvarez vs. Edgar Berlanga

McLaren will prioritize Lando Norris getting the most points possible for the remainder of the Fo...

McLaren will prioritize Lando Norris getting the most points possible for the remainder of the Formula 1 season and are asking teammate Oscar Piastri to comply. "We (will) bias our support to Lando but we want to do it without too much compromise on our principles," team principal Andrea Stella told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/c4gen1vegx7o">BBC's Andrew Benson</a>."Our principles are that the team interest always comes first. Sportsmanship for us is important in the overall way we go racing. And then we want to be fair to both drivers."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Norris enters the Azerbaijan Grand Prix sitting 62 points behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen for the lead in the driver's championship with eight races left on the 2024 calendar. Piastri sits in fourth position, 20 points behind Charles Leclerc of Ferrari and 44 points behind Norris.Norris made up significant ground on reigning champion Verstappen in the driver's standings, as Red Bull struggled to keep the same pace as McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes in recent races.Stella said Piastri bought into the idea, and conversations about the decision were "collaborative.""Even when I said to Oscar: 'Would you be available to give up a victory?' He said: 'It's painful, but if it's the right thing to do now, I will do it,'" Stella said."Every driver is hard-wired to go for a victory. So I am always very impressed by the level of team spirit and maturity and collaboration that we found in this period."Norris responded to Stella's comments by saying he wants to win the title by merit and not because of team orders."I don't want to be given a championship," Norris told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/ce8083j07e8o">Benson</a>. "Yes, it would be great to have a championship, and short term you feel amazing, but I don't think you'd be proud of that in the long run. It's not how I want to win a championship."In addition to Norris seeking his first driver's title, McLaren is attempting to win its first constructor's championship since 1998. They head to Baku eight points behind Red Bull.

McLaren's Australian driver Oscar Piastri (L) and McLaren's British driver Lando Norris pose ahead of the Formula One Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku on September 12, 2024.

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McLaren team principal: We will 'bias our support' to Norris during title bid

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Bowden Francis carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning against t...

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12435" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12435">Bowden Francis</a> carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning against the New York Mets on Wednesday before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> hit a game-tying home run to end the bid and start a rally for his club that would result in a 6-2 victory.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lind-sanity! Francisco Lindor ties it with the first <a href="https://twitter.com/Mets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mets</a> hit of the game! <a href="https://t.co/9nc1kmcTuz">pic.twitter.com/9nc1kmcTuz</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1833976571847430540?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"With that many pitches (111), I felt like I had to empty the tank with heaters and let him put the ball in play," Francis said, according to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3072733" href="https://thescore.com/news/3072733">Associated Press.</a> The Mets scored six runs in the ninth to spoil Francis' terrific afternoon, with relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4316" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4316">Chad Green</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10604" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10604">Génesis Cabrera</a> combining to allow five earned runs on four walks, three hits, and a three-run homer courtesy of Mets catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10690" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10690">Francisco Alvarez</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
WAY OUTTA HERE 💥 <a href="https://t.co/9I5vy4NtaY">pic.twitter.com/9I5vy4NtaY</a>— New York Mets (@Mets) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mets/status/1833981578713903498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Francis also carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Angels on Aug. 24 before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5431" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5431">Taylor Ward</a> broke it up with a homer."It sucks for him that it's happened twice in the same fashion," Blue Jays manager John Schneider said. The 28-year-old also didn't allow a hit until the sixth frame against the Boston Red Sox on Aug. 29.Francis has been nearly unhittable in his last six starts, allowing a combined 13 hits across 43 innings pitched. "I just can't speak enough to how he's evolved and how much he has taken from this opportunity," Schneider said.The Blue Jays have lost two of those six outings.

TORONTO, ON - SEPTEMBER 11: Bowden Francis #44 of the Toronto Blue Jays is is taken out of the game by manager John Schneider against the New York Mets during the ninth inning in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on September 11, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Blue Jays' Francis loses no-hit bid in 9th during loss to Mets

Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton has the full support of general manager Ben Cherington, ...

Pittsburgh Pirates manager Derek Shelton has the full support of general manager Ben Cherington, who believes the skipper will continue in the same role next season."(Shelton is the) right person to manage this team in 2025," the GM said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/KevinGormanPGH/status/1833889615612125383">Kevin Gorman of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review</a>.Shelton has never had a winning season or made the playoffs during his Pittsburgh tenure, but the club's winning percentage has improved every year he's been on the job. The results earned him a contract extension in April 2023. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, his teams in recent years have had inconsistent results despite front-office improvements and added payroll."I think there's a lot to the job I believe he does really, really well, and I also believe he works his tail off to continue to improve in a number of ways," Cherington said, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3072461" href="https://thescore.com/news/3072461">The Associated Press</a>.Shelton shared his appreciation for Cherington's vote of confidence later Wednesday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pirates manager Derek Shelton on receiving a vote of confidence from GM Ben Cherington, who said he fully expects Shelton to return in 2025. <a href="https://t.co/OtjPmPrOzX">pic.twitter.com/OtjPmPrOzX</a>— Kevin Gorman (@KevinGormanPGH) <a href="https://twitter.com/KevinGormanPGH/status/1833949618490450409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Shelton recently showed frustration with the play of his 2024 squad when he took offence to a reporter's question about using position player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5221" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5221">Rowdy Tellez</a> as a pitcher for the third time in 12 days. The Pirates were no-hit by the Cubs during that same game.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tNPOIEqP8TM?si=UoQrqaB6GWzf9Gnd" 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>The 54-year-old Shelton has managed the Pirates since 2020, amassing a 287-404 record.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 23: Manager Derek Shelton of the Pittsburgh Pirates looks on during the game against the St. Louis Cardinals at PNC Park on July 23, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Cherington: Shelton 'right person to manage' Pirates in 2025

The Baltimore Orioles are struggling, and injured infielder Jordan Westburg believes it's affecti...

The Baltimore Orioles are struggling, and injured infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12662" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12662">Jordan Westburg</a> believes it's affecting the mentality of the clubhouse during the final stretch run toward the postseason."I mean, losing sucks, right? Morale is down when you lose and we've been kind of doing a lot of it recently," Westburg said, according to <a href="https://www.baltimoresun.com/2024/09/11/orioles-frustration-inconsistent-play-clubhouse-morale/">The Baltimore Sun's Matt Weyrich</a>."I'm not going to spare words, we haven't been playing well in all facets of the game. So, yeah, it sucks. We're all down a little bit. Guys, I think, are searching and putting a lot of pressure on themselves to right the ship. But deep down, I think we all have this confidence that we're a good ballclub. We have the pieces to make a run."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Orioles entered the All-Star break 20 games above .500. They appeared to be one of baseball's best teams as they battled atop the American League East division with the New York Yankees. The second half of the season hasn't been as pleasant, however, with the Orioles losing as many games as they've won (25-25).Baltimore has been riddled with injuries to key players, including Westburg, who is sidelined with a broken hand. It's also struggling to stay consistent. When the pitching goes well, the offense struggles, and vice versa."I think it just comes down to trusting ourselves, really going out there and just worrying about putting a good product on the field together pitch by pitch," Westburg said."If we get down early, who cares? We're going to find a way. That needs to be the mentality, and if we're up, alright, let's step on somebody's throat. I think right now that's kind of what needs to happen as a whole. There just needs to be a little bit of, 'OK, we don’t care what the noise is. We don't care what happens during the game. Just find a way.' So, hopefully we can do that."The Orioles enter Wednesday attempting to take a series from the Boston Red Sox and reclaim the division lead from the Yankees, who are a half-game ahead of them in the standings.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JULY 28: Jordan Westburg #11 of the Baltimore Orioles walks to the dugout during the game against the San Diego Padres at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on July 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Westburg opens up about Orioles' struggles: 'Morale is down'

The New York Yankees recalled top prospect Jasson Domínguez to the major-league roster, the team ...

The New York Yankees recalled top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11835" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11835">Jasson Domínguez</a> to the major-league roster, the team announced.Domínguez will start in center field against the Kansas City Royals on Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/M_Marakovits/status/1833234888339951731">Meredith Marakovits of YES Network</a>. "Jasson's gonna play a lot," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1833235091138781347">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 21-year-old outfielder is the 16th-ranked prospect on <a href="https://www.mlb.com/prospects/top100/">MLB Pipeline</a>'s top 100. He performed well in the minors this season, posting an .880 OPS with 11 home runs, 35 RBIs, and 16 steals in 58 games across three levels.The promotion comes just days after Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said the club intended to stick with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5637">Alex Verdugo</a> in left field, suggesting the struggling veteran gave them a better chance to win. Domínguez burst onto the season last September, slugging four home runs in eight games with New York before tearing his UCL. He went hitless in his only game with the Yankees so far this season on Aug. 18 against the Detroit Tigers. The Yankees also reinstated infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3237">Jon Berti</a> from the 60-day injured list, placed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2093" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2093">DJ LeMahieu</a> on the 10-day IL with a right hip impingement, and designated left-hander Anthony Misiewicz for assignment.Boone said he isn't sure if LeMahieu will be back this season, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1833236370913190283">Phillips</a>.

WILLIAMSPORT , PA - AUGUST 18: Jasson Domínguez #89 of the New York Yankees looks on during the national anthem prior to the 2024 Little League Classic game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field on Sunday, August 18, 2024 in Williamsport , Pennsylvania.

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Yankees call up Domínguez to start in CF vs. Royals

Bob Melvin is disappointed about his first year as manager of the San Francisco Giants and didn't...

Bob Melvin is disappointed about his first year as manager of the San Francisco Giants and didn't mince words in describing how things have gone for him and the club this season."This is the signature team in the Bay Area. This is everything I've dreamed of coming in here. And so for it not to go well - and my expectation was that it would go well - makes it probably the hardest year I've had," he told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5754038/2024/09/09/sf-giants-bob-melvin-season-lookback/?source=tw_c_sf">The Athletic's Andrew Baggarly</a>.The Giants pried the Palo Alto, California, native away from the San Diego Padres to manage his home state club last October. The hire came with heavy expectations from a San Francisco front office that dished out nearly $250 million in player salaries in the offseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The results haven't been there, however, with the Giants 7.5 games back of the final NL wild-card spot.This is the second consecutive season a team managed by Melvin has performed below expectations after the high-payroll Padres missed the playoffs last year. While Melvin agreed his 2023 campaign with the Padres was a tough pill to swallow, he also admitted this year has been more difficult because of his ties to the Bay Area."Last year was hard in San Diego because of what we accomplished the year before. But this year was more personal because it's San Francisco," he said."So in that respect, this has been a very difficult year for me. Now, it's not over. There's still a lot to accomplish with some of the younger players and the guys that we have leading into next year. But there are nights when it's very uncomfortable for me."The three-time Manager of the Year is signed until the end of the 2026 campaign to manage the Giants, who have 18 games remaining on this year's schedule.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 06: Bob Melvin #6 of the San Francisco Giants looks on before the game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on September 06, 2024 in San Diego, California.

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Melvin: 1st season with Giants 'probably the hardest year I've had'

HAMPTON, Ga. (AP) — Joey Logano raced his way into the second round of NASCAR's playoffs by winni...

HAMPTON, Ga. (AP) — Joey Logano raced his way into the second round of NASCAR's playoffs by winning the opener in overtime Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Logano, the only two-time Cup Series champion in the 16-driver playoff field, earned an automatic berth into the next round of races. It was the 11th race of the season to end in overtime — a tie for the record set in the 2017 season. “That’s how we start the playoffs, boys!” Logano shouted. “When it is playoff time, it is our time.”<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Logano is trying to become the only active three-time Cup champion. Kyle Busch, who did not make the playoffs, is the only other driver with two Cup titles. Ryan Blaney finished second in a 1-2 sweep for Team Penske and Ford. Blaney lined up behind Logano and gave him the pushes he needed to deny Daniel Suarez the victory. Suarez, who won the closest three-wide finish in NASCAR history here in February, had his own help from Trackhouse Racing teammate Ross Chastain. The two-lap overtime sprint to the finish began with Logano and Suarez lined up side-by-side on the front row, each with their teammate behind them for the push to the front. Blaney got Logano out first, but Chastain remained locked onto the bumper of Suarez's Chevrolet and the two dueled it out until Blaney used a final push to get his Penske teammate the win. Christopher Bell in a Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing finished fourth, and Alex Bowman in a Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports was fifth. Regular-season champion Tyler Reddick of 23XI Racing was sixth and followed by Busch of Richard Childress Racing, Chase Elliott of Hendrick, William Byron of Hendrick and Austin Cindric of Penske. Only two Toyotas — Bell and Reddick — finished inside the top 10. <hl2>Larson crashes early </hl2>Larson running third in the closing laps of the first stage when his car inexplicably shot into the outside wall. “I don't know if I blew a tire or what,” Larson radioed. As the No. 5 Chevrolet shot back down the track, Larson was hit in the rear by fellow playoff driver Chase Briscoe. That contact caused damage to Briscoe's Ford. The incident ended the race for both drivers. Larson was the points leader at the start of Sunday before his crash, which he called one of the hardest hits of his career and it came without any warning. “No, not at all. Never. Not once," Larson said. “It just caught me way off guard. I was never once loose, even in that corner. And then, it just started stepping out. I corrected it and overcorrected it, I guess. I feel fine. Thankfully, everything held up great in the car.”Briscoe, who won last week's regular-season finale to make the playoff field, was ranked 13th out of 16 at the start of the race. “That’s NASCAR — you can be on top one week and you can be at the very bottom of the mountain the next week," said Briscoe, who added he was fortunate not to be injured. "It was a big hit. One of the biggest hits I’ve had in a long time. My private area hurt pretty bad at first, just when I hit it was a big hit, but, other than that, I’m totally good. "My head, everything feels fine. I’m glad my ankles didn’t get messed up. The brake pedal and everything went through the floorboard, so I’m thankful that I’m alright, for sure.”<hl2>Up Next</hl2>The road course in Watkins Glen, New York, makes its debut in the 10-race playoff schedule next Sunday. Hendrick Motorsports drivers Chase Elliott, Larson and William Byron have combined to win the last five races at the track dating to 2018 when Watkins Glen was part of the regular-season schedule. ___AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing

HAMPTON, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 08: Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Autotrader Ford, celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Quaker State 400 Available at Walmart at Atlanta Motor Speedway on September 08, 2024 in Hampton, Georgia.

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Logano wins NASCAR playoff opener at Atlanta to advance to 2nd round

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Ben Wrixon

Associate Baseball News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/bryan-mcwilliam/content_cards

Bryan Mcwilliam

News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/michael-bradburn/content_cards