Tarik Skubal reigns supreme after an exceptional season.   The Detroit Tigers left-hander unanimo...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal </a>reigns supreme after an exceptional season. </p><p>The Detroit Tigers left-hander unanimously won his first career American League Cy Young Award over Kansas City Royals right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5533" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5533">Seth Lugo</a> and Cleveland Guardians closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11259">Emmanuel Clase</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DVMng" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DVMng/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="197" 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>"It's pretty special. All the hard work, all the stuff that goes on behind the scenes, moments like this make it extremely worth it," Skubal said. "To have the support system that I have and the people that are right behind me, it means a lot to have those guys in my corner."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Skubal put together a breakout 2024 campaign following a strong finish to 2023. The southpaw earned the AL pitching Triple Crown by leading in wins (18), ERA (2.39), and strikeouts (228).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“I love to play the game. I love to win. That’s all the motivation I need.”<br><br>Cy Young dreams become reality for <a href="https://twitter.com/TarikSkubal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TarikSkubal</a>. <a href="https://t.co/iKkzXFx89H">pic.twitter.com/iKkzXFx89H</a></p>— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/status/1859386435704406198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>His 170 ERA+, 2.50 FIP, and 5.9 fWAR were also tops in the AL.</p><p>It was a particularly special 28th birthday for Skubal as he became the fifth Tigers pitcher to win a Cy Young and the first since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> in 2013. He's also the first left-handed starting pitcher in franchise history to take home the award.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">gotta love the “Happy Birthday” in the background of a Cy Young celebration <a href="https://t.co/5QLvgR61YT">pic.twitter.com/5QLvgR61YT</a></p>— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1859385876528365585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Skubal joins Roy Campanella (1953 MVP) as the only two players in MLB history to win an individual BBWAA award on their birthday, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1859385024866550114">MLB.com's Sarah Langs</a>.</p><p> </p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 01: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers reacts after recording a strikeout against the Houston Astros to end the fourth inning during Game One of the Wild Card Series at Minute Maid Park on October 01, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Tigers' Skubal unanimously wins 1st Cy Young

José Berríos is hoping Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains a member of the Toronto Blue Jays for the lo...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a> is hoping <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> remains a member of the Toronto Blue Jays for the long haul.</p><p>"When we sign Vladdy, we can sign whoever they want," Berríos told <a href="https://www.elvocero.com/deportes/jos-berr-os-sobre-juan-soto-ser-a-brutal-pero-primero-tenemos-que-firmar-a/article_e561767e-a76c-11ef-906c-972b69e13ebb.html">El Vocero's Jarniel Canales Conde</a>. "But I think the priority should be Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and then if we add <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>, it would be a perfect world."</p><p>Guerrero is under team control for one more year before he's scheduled to hit free agency. The 25-year-old is projected to earn $29.6 million in his final year of arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Guerrero put together an excellent season in 2024. He won a Silver Slugger and was named to the All-MLB first team for the second time in his career.</p><p>The Blue Jays are also among a handful of teams who have reportedly met with Soto and his agent Scott Boras as they try to snare this year's marquee free agent after a disappointing 74-88 campaign in 2024.</p>

TORONTO, ON - MAY 31: Jose Berrios #17 and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of Toronto Blue Jays get ready to take the field against the Pittsburgh Pirates in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on May 31, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Berríos: Keeping Vladdy should be Blue Jays' 'priority'

The Chicago Cubs designated right-hander Adbert Alzolay for assignment, the club announced Tuesda...

<p>The Chicago Cubs designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9536" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9536">Adbert Alzolay</a> for assignment, the club announced Tuesday.</p><p>Alzolay was projected to earn $2.3 million in 2025, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>. The 29-year-old has an additional year of arbitration eligibility before he hits free agency at the end of the 2025 season.</p><p>Alzolay is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in August.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He spent the first six seasons of his career with the Cubs. Alzolay's best season came in 2023 when he registered a 2.67 ERA with 22 saves and 67 strikeouts in 64 innings.</p><p>The Cubs also designated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12698" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12698">Brennen Davis</a> for assignment and added outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13752">Owen Caissie</a> and infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14249" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14249">Ben Cowles</a> to the 40-man roster.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 3: Adbert Alzolay of the Chicago Cubs pitches in a game against the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field on April 3, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Cubs DFA former closer Alzolay 

The New York Mets acquired outfielder Jose Siri from the Tampa Bay Rays for right-handed reliever...

<p>The New York Mets acquired outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4979" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4979">Jose Siri</a> from the Tampa Bay Rays for right-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14030" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14030">Eric Orze</a>, the club announced Tuesday.</p><p>Siri spent parts of the last three seasons with the Rays after coming over in a trade from the Houston Astros. The 29-year-old struggled at the plate in 2024, slashing .187/.255/.366 with 18 home runs, 14 stolen bases, 50 runs, and 47 RBIs in 130 games.</p><p>Siri is an excellent defensive option in the outfield, ranking in the 99th percentile in Baseball Savant's outs above average and 97th percentile in arm strength. He's arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason and is projected to earn $2.3 million, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Siri will provide Mets manager Carlos Mendoza with another outfield option alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2442" href="/mlb/players/2442">Starling Marte</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4063" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4063">Tyrone Taylor</a>.</p><p>Orze made his MLB debut this season, posting a 21.60 ERA in a pair of appearances for the Mets. The 27-year-old was excellent at Triple-A, posting a 6-1 record with a 2.92 ERA and 84 strikeouts across 61 2/3 innings.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 13: Tampa Bay Rays center fielder Jose Siri (22) digs for third base after hitting a triple during the third inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Guardians on September 13, 2024, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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Mets acquire Siri from Rays for Orze

Ryan Garcia will face Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition match Dec. 30 in Tokyo, the...

<p>Ryan Garcia will face Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition match Dec. 30 in Tokyo, the two boxers announced on social media Monday.</p><p>The fight will take place at 153 pounds over eight two-minute rounds, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/42474417/ryan-garcia-take-rukiya-anpo-dec-30-tokyo">ESPN's Mike Coppinger</a>.</p><p>Garcia is currently serving a one-year suspension for testing positive for ostarine ahead of his fight with Devin Haney in April. The 26-year-old is eligible to fight Anpo since exhibition bouts are excluded from athletic commission suspensions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs) upset Haney via majority decision before it was changed to a no-contest following his suspension.</p><p>The former WBC interim lightweight champion is also eyeing a potential fight against Jake Paul in the future.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ight I’ve been quiet for some time but I’ve been cooking on some plans before my actual return to the ring <br><br>Here is the plan before April <br><br>Exhibition in December in Japan against the guy who fought aging manny pac and tried to knock him out. <br><br>And then go after Jake🫡 for uncle…</p>— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanGarcia/status/1858621008842027478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Anpo only has one boxing fight in his career, a draw against veteran Manny Pacquiao in an exhibition bout in July.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 18: Ryan Garcia speaks during a press conference at Barclays Center on April 18, 2024 in New York City.

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Ryan Garcia books exhibition bout for Dec. 30 in Tokyo

The Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to meet with free-agent outfielder Juan Soto early this wee...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to meet with free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> early this week, sources told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/juan-soto-free-agency-inside-look">MLB.com's Mark Feinsand</a>.</p><p>Soto has reportedly held meetings in California with the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets. The New York Yankees are expected to meet with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, on Monday, Feinsand reports.</p><p>The four-time All-Star's meetings with the Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Mets included representatives from ownership, front-office executives, and each club's manager, sources told Feinsand.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The World Series champion Dodgers have an opening in right field, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> hitting free agency and the team announcing that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> will shift back to the infield next season.</p><p>Soto is the marquee free agent on the market this offseason after a terrific 2024 campaign. The 26-year-old set a career high with 41 home runs and helped the Yankees reach the World Series for the first time since 2009 in his first season with the club.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 20: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees in action against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium on June 20, 2024 in New York City. The Orioles defeated the Yankees 17-5.

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Report: Dodgers set to meet with Soto

Houston Astros owner Jim Crane expects his club to be competitive again in 2025, but he isn't pla...

<p>Houston Astros owner Jim Crane expects his club to be competitive again in 2025, but he isn't planning to be overly aggressive in free agency.</p><p>"We want to try to field the best team we can without going crazy," Crane said Monday, per <a href="https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/astros-discuss-alex-bregman-free-agency">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a>. "Some of the payrolls are pretty high for the biggest teams, but I think we were the fifth-highest payroll. That’s the first time we’ve done that. We have the wherewithal to do that if we need to do it."</p><p>The Astros had the highest payroll in franchise history at $255.2 million in 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Longtime third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> is a free agent for the first time in his career. Crane is hopeful the club will be able to retain Bregman but is keeping all his options open when it comes to the third base market.</p><p>"We know (Bregman's agent) Scott (Boras)," Crane said. "He’s going to do the best he can to get the most for (Bregman) if it’s a place he wants to go. … At some point, we would have to make a decision. We’re looking now at a backup (options). You’re exploring all the options, so that’s what’s happening now."</p><p>Crane and Astros general manager Dana Brown signed star second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a> to a five-year, $125-million contract extension in February. The Astros haven't given a free agent more than five guaranteed years on a contract since Crane assumed ownership of the club in 2011.</p><p>Houston was swept in the AL wild-card series by the Detroit Tigers last season, snapping the franchise's streak of advancing to every ALCS since 2016.</p><ul></ul>

HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 03: Houston Astros owner Jim Crane presents Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros a World Series ring to at Minute Maid Park on April 3, 2018 in Houston, Texas.

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Crane: Astros to build best team 'without going crazy' in free agency

The Cincinnati Reds and Kansas City Royals have held discussions about a trade involving Reds sec...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds and Kansas City Royals have held discussions about a trade involving Reds second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12444" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12444">Jonathan India</a> and Royals right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10668" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10668">Brady Singer</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5926126/2024/11/16/jonathan-india-brady-singer-reds-royals-trade/">The Athletic's C. Trent Rosecrans and Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>An India-for-Singer trade is not yet close to being completed and is one of a handful of scenarios under consideration for both teams, Rosecrans and Rosenthal report.</p><p>India has spent the first four seasons of his career in Cincinnati, winning NL Rookie of the Year in 2021. The 27-year-old is under contract for $5.4 million in 2025 and has another year of arbitration eligibility before he's scheduled to reach free agency at the conclusion of the 2026 campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>India hit .248 with 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and a 105 OPS+ across 151 games for the Reds in 2024. </p><p>Singer was drafted by the Royals in the first round in 2018. He's under team control for two more years.</p><p>The 28-year-old authored a strong season for Kansas City in 2024, posting a 9-13 record with a 3.71 ERA and 170 strikeouts across 179 2/3 innings.</p>

ST. LOUIS, MO - JUNE 28: Jonathan India #6 of the Cincinnati Reds waits for play to resume during the first inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium on June 28, 2024 in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Report: Reds, Royals discuss India-Singer trade

Following his victory over Mike Tyson, it appears Jake Paul has his next move in mind.  Paul took...

<p>Following his victory over Mike Tyson, it appears Jake Paul has his next move in mind.</p><p>Paul took to X to challenge former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion Conor McGregor to an MMA fight.</p><p>"Dear Conor, I know you told my team you would fight me at 170 pounds," Paul <a href="https://twitter.com/jakepaul/status/1857793540790555111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1857793540790555111%7Ctwgr%5E68a121763d455a5d0854c4159ba3a384e115773c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mmafighting.com%2F2024%2F11%2F16%2F24298119%2Fjake-paul-calls-out-conor-mcgregor-for-an-mma-fight-no-weight-class-just-like-how-it-used-to-be-done">wrote</a>. "That's never happening. But let's run it in MMA. No weight class. Just like how it used to be done. But you won't."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Paul and McGregor have gone back and forth about a potential bout for several years but have failed to come to any agreement.</p><p>McGregor has been idle since suffering a leg injury during a fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. The 36-year-old has one professional boxing fight under his belt, falling to Floyd Mayweather via 10th-round TKO in 2017.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JULY 19: Jake Paul poses during weigh-in prior to their Cruiserweight fight at Amalie Arena on July 19, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

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Paul challenges McGregor to MMA fight

Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias has been busy navigating the free-agent market in th...

<p>Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias has been busy navigating the free-agent market in the early stages of the offseason.</p><p>"I’ve been very active. I’ll leave it at that," Elias said Friday, according to <a href="https://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2024/11/16/orioles-elias-wall-free-agency-injury-updates/">Rich Dubroff of Baltimore Baseball</a>. "I’ve been talking to a lot of people. I think we have a clear idea of the types of player profiles that we’re seeking."</p><p>Elias expects new owner David Rubenstein to be aggressive in adding payroll in an effort to make the franchise an attractive destination.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"(Ownership) has allowed us to be in a position to be very organized and prepared," Elias said. "As soon as free agency opened during the GM meetings, we’ve been in a position to show people that we’re very serious about bringing players in, and a lot of conversations (are) ongoing right now."</p><p>Ace right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> is one of the premier starting pitchers available. He spent the 2024 campaign in Baltimore after the Orioles acquired him in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers.</p><p>"We are looking at the whole menu, the whole spectrum," Elias said of the club's involvement in the free-agent pitching market, according to <a href="https://www.baltimoresun.com/2024/11/15/orioles-mike-elias-free-agent-pitchers-offseason-updates/">Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun</a>.</p><p>The Orioles were 22nd in payroll in 2024 at $109.8 million.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 08: Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias talks on the phone before the start of the Orioles and New York Yankees game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 08, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Orioles GM 'very active' in free-agent discussions

Katie Taylor was defiant after her controversial decision victory over Amanda Serrano to retain h...

<p>Katie Taylor was defiant after her controversial decision victory over Amanda Serrano to retain her undisputed women's junior welterweight championship.</p><p>"I've fought her twice, I've beat her twice," Taylor said, according to <a href="https://x.com/MichaelBensonn/status/1857675939418685902">Boxing journalist Michael Benson</a>. "I really couldn't care less what's being said. I'm 2-0 against Serrano and I'm very, very happy."</p><p>All three judges scored the fight 95-94 in favor of Taylor (24-1, 6 KOs) despite the two women bumping heads a number of times, one of which opened up a cut above Serrano's eye. Taylor was also docked a point in the eighth round.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I knew it was going to be a little shady, but listen, I came here, I chose to be great," Serrano said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/42417518/katie-taylor-edges-amanda-serrano-controversial-decision">ESPN's Andreas Hale</a>. "I went up three divisions. I lost. I dared to be great tonight, and I went up three divisions. I'm the featherweight champion of the world, and I want to be great."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I landed 107 more punches, she got a point deducted and I lost 95-94 lmfao <a href="https://t.co/7aYuI11T8c">pic.twitter.com/7aYuI11T8c</a></p>— Amanda Serrano (@Serranosisters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Serranosisters/status/1857649208234242357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Taylor won the first meeting between the two via split decision in April 2022.</p><p>Jake Paul, who defeated Mike Tyson in the main event on the card, took to X to throw his support behind Serrano.</p><p>"Amanda Serrano won," Paul <a href="https://twitter.com/jakepaul/status/1857699607360180550">wrote</a>. "She's the biggest star in women's combat sports."</p><p>The loss snapped a five-fight winning streak for Serrano and is the third defeat of her professional career. </p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 15: Katie Taylor speaks during the post match press conference for LIVE On Netflix: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson at AT&T Stadium on November 15, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Taylor defiant after controversial win over Serrano: 'Beat her twice'

The Baltimore Orioles are making modifications to the left-field wall at Camden Yards in time for...

<p>The Baltimore Orioles are making modifications to the left-field wall at Camden Yards in time for the 2025 season, general manager Mike Elias announced Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/masnRoch/status/1857514130829095418">MASN's Roch Kubatko</a>.</p><p>"We've developed a plan to seek a happy medium," Elias said, per <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1857514816149270822">Jake Rill of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>The Orioles are planning to pull some areas in by as much as 20 feet, others by 11, and others by as few as nine feet, according to <a href="https://x.com/masnRoch/status/1857514586255282601">Kubatko</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755535/cropped_Gcc4N-IXsAAKfar.jpg?ts=1731701671" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755535/w220xh124_Gcc4N-IXsAAKfar.jpg?ts=1731701671 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755535/w320xh180_Gcc4N-IXsAAKfar.jpg?ts=1731701671 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755535/w640xh360_Gcc4N-IXsAAKfar.jpg?ts=1731701671 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755535/w768xh432_Gcc4N-IXsAAKfar.jpg?ts=1731701671 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755535/w1080xh607_Gcc4N-IXsAAKfar.jpg?ts=1731701671 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jake Rill</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Orioles made changes to the fence ahead of the 2022 campaign in an effort to reduce the stadium's propensity for giving up home runs to that side of the field.</p><p>Over the past three seasons, the left-field wall was raised from seven feet to 13 feet and moved back by as much as 26.5 feet.</p><p>The changes had the desired effect as Camden Yards has ranked 24th, 29th, and 22nd in home runs by right-handed hitters since the start of the 2022 campaign.</p>

BALTIMORE, MD - JUNE 18: Tampa Bay Rays left fielder Randy Arozarena (56) cant make a catch against the large left field green wall during the Tampa Bay Rays versus Baltimore Orioles MLB game at Orioles Park at Camden Yards on June 18, 2022 in Baltimore, MD.

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Orioles making alterations to left-field wall for 2025

The Atlanta Braves are showing early interest in free-agent right-hander Walker Buehler, reports ...

<p>The Atlanta Braves are showing early interest in free-agent right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a>, reports <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/j-p-morosi-with-latest-free-agency-stories">MLB Network's Jon Morosi</a>.</p><p>Buehler was not extended a qualifying offer by the Los Angeles Dodgers, so he will not require any draft-pick compensation if he signs with another club.</p><p>The 30-year-old struggled through injuries over the past few seasons and posted a 1-6 record with a 5.38 ERA, a 1.55 WHIP, and 64 strikeouts across 75 1/3 innings in 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Buehler rediscovered his form during Los Angeles' run to a championship. He put together consecutive scoreless starts against the New York Mets in the NLCS and the New York Yankees in the World Series. Buehler also earned the save in the Dodgers' decisive Game 5 victory to clinch the Fall Classic.</p><p>The Braves are currently projected to enter the 2025 campaign with a rotation that includes NL Cy Young favorite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1577" href="/mlb/players/1577">Chris Sale</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5352" href="/mlb/players/5352">Reynaldo López</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17953" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17953">Spencer Schwellenbach</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9562">Griffin Canning</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8134" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8134">Ian Anderson</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13620" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13620">Spencer Strider</a> is not expected to be ready for the start of the regular season as he continues to rehab from Tommy John surgery in April.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 28, 2024: Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler (21) pitches in the first inning. Game 3 of the World Series against the Yankees at Yankees Stadium in New York City Monday, October 28 2024. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Report: Braves showing interest in Buehler 

The Pittsburgh Pirates are offering a major reward if any lucky fan is able to get their hands on...

<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates are offering a major reward if any lucky fan is able to get their hands on a rare <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> rookie card.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗦𝗧 𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞: The Paul Skenes 1/1 Rookie Debut Patch Autograph is officially here…<br><br>This card can be found in one lucky pack of 2024 Topps Chrome Update, releasing November 13. <a href="https://t.co/uwTaUWaenh">pic.twitter.com/uwTaUWaenh</a></p>— Topps (@Topps) <a href="https://twitter.com/Topps/status/1855657396414107908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Pirates are promising the fan who finds the Skenes rookie debut patch autograph card an opportunity to receive a pair of season tickets for the next 30 years, a softball game for 30 people at PNC Park with coaching from Pirates alumni, a spring training experience, a meet and greet with Skenes, two autographed Skenes jerseys, batting practice with the team, and other special experiences at Pirate City and LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida.</p><p>Skenes' girlfriend, LSU gymnast and social media influencer Livvy Dunne, offered the fan who finds the card a chance to sit with her for a Pirates home game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755514/Screenshot_2024-11-15_at_12.53.38_PM.jpg?ts=1731693468" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755514/Screenshot_2024-11-15_at_12.53.38_PM.jpg?ts=1731693468 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755514/Screenshot_2024-11-15_at_12.53.38_PM.jpg?ts=1731693468 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755514/Screenshot_2024-11-15_at_12.53.38_PM.jpg?ts=1731693468 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755514/Screenshot_2024-11-15_at_12.53.38_PM.jpg?ts=1731693468 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755514/Screenshot_2024-11-15_at_12.53.38_PM.jpg?ts=1731693468 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>Skenes authored a magnificent rookie season for the Pirates in 2024. The 22-year-old made the All-MLB first team and was a finalist for the NL Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards after posting an 11-3 record, 1.96 ERA, and 11.5 K/9 across 133 innings.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 5: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches during the game against the New York Mets at PNC Park on July 5, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Pirates offer season tickets for 30 years for rare Skenes rookie card

The St. Louis Cardinals will consider trading veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado this offseason,...

<p>The St. Louis Cardinals will consider trading veteran third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a> this offseason, <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/11/14/sports/garrett-crochet-to-draw-in-big-haul-for-white-sox/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>Arenado has three years and $52 million remaining on the eight-year, $260-million contract he signed with the Colorado Rockies in 2019. The deal carries a full no-trade clause.</p><p>The 33-year-old slashed .272/.325/.394 with 16 home runs, 23 doubles, and 71 RBIs across 152 games in 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>St. Louis has missed the postseason in consecutive years and is coming off an 83-79 campaign in 2024.</p><p>Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak is entering his final year in the position. He's set to step aside for Chaim Bloom, who will take over baseball operations after the 2025 season.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JULY 09: Nolan Arenado #28 of the St. Louis Cardinals bats against the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on July 09, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Cardinals will consider trading Arenado

Hall of Famer David Ortiz is hopeful his former club, the Boston Red Sox, can sign marquee free a...

<p>Hall of Famer David Ortiz is hopeful his former club, the Boston Red Sox, can sign marquee free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> this offseason.</p><p>"If there was one player in baseball who could be the next David Ortiz in Boston, it is Juan Soto," Ortiz told <a href="https://www.audacy.com/weei/sports/red-sox/papi-soto-is-the-one-guy-who-could-be-bostons-next-ortiz">WEEI's Rob Bradford</a>. "He's that good. He's got great makeup."</p><p>The Red Sox reportedly had a three-hour meeting with Soto and his agent Scott Boras on Thursday in California, a source told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2024/11/juan-soto-red-sox-get-acquainted-in-productive-3-hour-socal-meeting.html">MassLive's Sean McAdam</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Soto was left impressed by Boston's pitch, which included manager Alex Cora, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, team president Sam Kennedy, and chairman Tom Werner, per McAdam.</p><p>"If there is a guy I would like to build a team around, it would have to be Juan Soto," Ortiz said. "Juan Soto speaks Spanish and he speaks English, so he can communicate with both American and Latin players. He has that good vibe. I tell you what, the Yankees went that far this year because of him. He changed everything for them there."</p><p>Soto is the premier free agent this offseason and is expected to land one of the biggest contracts in baseball history.</p><p>The 26-year-old put together an incredible platform season with the New York Yankees in 2024. Soto helped the club reach the World Series for the first time since 2009 and set a career high with 41 home runs in 157 games.</p><p>The Red Sox, Yankees, New York Mets, and Toronto Blue Jays are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3126423" href="https://thescore.com/news/3126423">reportedly</a> among the teams that have meetings lined up with Soto.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 19: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees hits a three-run home run during the tenth inning of Game Five of the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on October 19, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Ortiz wants Red Sox to sign Soto after reported 3-hour meeting

Matt Hague is leaving the Toronto Blue Jays to become the new hitting coach for the Pittsburgh Pi...

<p>Matt Hague is leaving the Toronto Blue Jays to become the new hitting coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates, sources told <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottyMitchTSN/status/1856728910664200277">TSN's Scott Mitchell</a>.</p><p>Hague joined the Blue Jays organization in 2020, initially serving as a hitting coach with High-A Dunedin. He moved through Toronto's minor-league system before receiving a promotion to serve as the Blue Jays' assistant hitting coach in 2024 under Guillermo Martinez.</p><p>Hague, 39, takes over a Pirates lineup that struggled to score runs in 2024. Pittsburgh finished 24th in runs scored (665), 25th in home runs (160), and 27th in OPS (.672) last season. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Pirates selected Hague in the ninth round of the 2008 MLB Draft. He played 33 games in Pittsburgh and drove in seven runs with two doubles. Hague also played 10 games with the Blue Jays in 2015 before spending time in Japan and the minor leagues from 2016-18.</p>

DUNEDIN, FL - FEBRUARY 23: Matt Hague #66 of the Toronto Blue Jays poses for a photo during the Toronto Blue Jays Photo Day at TD Ballpark on Friday, February 23, 2024 in Dunedin, Florida.

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Report: Hague leaving Blue Jays to be Pirates hitting coach

Gleyber Torres is keeping his options open as a free agent for the first time in his career.   To...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/4975" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/4975">Gleyber Torres</a> is keeping his options open as a free agent for the first time in his career. </p><p>Torres spent the first seven seasons of his MLB career with the New York Yankees, hitting 138 home runs with 441 RBIs and a .774 OPS in 888 games.</p><p>The 27-year-old said he's open to a potential return to the only franchise he's suited up for.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I've played here since 2018. I've got family here," Torres said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/11/12/sports/gleyber-torres-on-where-his-free-agency-stands-at-this-moment/">Dan Martin of the New York Post</a>. "I know everybody in the organization, but at the end of the day, it's a business, and I can't control that. Let's see what it's gonna be the next few months."</p><p>Torres hit 15 home runs with 63 RBIs and a .708 OPS across 587 at-bats with the Yankees in 2024. He added a pair of home runs with eight RBIs in 14 postseason games as the Yankees advanced to the World Series for the first time since 2009.</p><p>"I feel like I did good things and I'm happy to have played with the Yankees those years," Torres said.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - JUNE 13: New York Yankees second baseman Gleyber Torres (25) reacts after striking out during the New York Yankees at Kansas City Royals MLB game on June 13, 2024, at Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO.

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Torres 'can't control' potential Yankees return in free agency

Tropicana Field can be repaired and ready in time for the 2026 MLB season for around $55.7 millio...

<p>Tropicana Field can be repaired and ready in time for the 2026 MLB season for around $55.7 million, according to a damage assessment report sent to St. Petersburg council members obtained by <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/sports/2024/11/12/tropicana-field-damage-assessment-st-petersburg-city-council-hennessy-construction/">Marc Topkin and Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times</a>.</p><p>During Hurricane Milton in October, the stadium roof was shredded and parts of the field were exposed to heavy rainfall.</p><p>"Overall, the stadium appears structurally sound and would be a viable candidate to continue to serve the city (should they so decide) in providing continued service following hurricane damage repairs," the report states.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The city of St. Petersburg is responsible for stadium repairs and has already filed an insurance claim. The report estimates the storm caused $39 million in damage to the stadium and another $16 million in costs.</p><p>The Rays, led by owner Stuart Sternberg, announced plans with the city in 2023 to build a new stadium near Tropicana Field for $1.2 billion. That venue is expected to open in 2028.</p><p>The Tampa Bay Rays haven't announced where they will play home games in 2025. The team has played at Tropicana Field since the franchise's inception in 1998.</p>

ST PETERSBURG - OCTOBER 10: In this aerial view, the roof of Tropicana Field is seen in tatters after Hurricane Milton destroyed it as the storm passed through the area on October 10, 2024, in St. Petersburg, Florida. The storm made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane in the Siesta Key area of Florida, causing damage and flooding throughout Central Florida.

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Tropicana Field can be ready for 2026 after $56M in repairs

Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm is on the trade block as the team looks to shake up...

<p>Philadelphia Phillies third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10702" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10702">Alec Bohm</a> is on the trade block as the team looks to shake up its roster, <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/insider/story/_/id/42331709/mlb-offseason-2024-25-passan-predictions-juan-soto-roki-sasaki-corbin-burnes-pete-alonso">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a> reports.</p><p>The Phillies were eliminated by the New York Mets in the NLDS despite winning the NL East for the first time since 2011.</p><p>Bohm made his first All-Star Game in 2024 after posting an .830 OPS with 11 home runs, 33 doubles, and 70 RBIs across 94 games before the break. The 28-year-old struggled in the second half of the season, hitting .251 with four home runs and a .681 OPS in 49 games. Bohm's slump continued into October, as he had one hit across 13 postseason at-bats.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Phillies selected Bohm with the third overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft. Bohm is arbitration-eligible for two more years and is scheduled to reach free agency at the conclusion of the 2026 campaign.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 05: Alec Bohm #28 of the Philadelphia Phillies returns to the dugout in the third inning during Game 1 of the Division Series presented by Booking.com between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, October 5, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Phillies' Bohm available in trade talks

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Ben Wrixon

Associate Baseball News Editor

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