Athletics second baseman Zack Gelof will begin the 2025 season on the injured list after sustaini...

<p>Athletics second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14042" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14042">Zack Gelof</a> will begin the 2025 season on the injured list after sustaining a fractured hook of the hamate bone in his right hand, according to <a href="https://x.com/MartinJGallegos/status/1903869954107339070">Martín Gallegos of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Gelof will undergo surgery for the issue Monday in Los Angeles, Gallegos reports. A timetable for his return hasn't been announced.</p><p>Gelof suffered the injury when he took a Paul Sewald pitch off his hand in Wednesday's Cactus League game against the Cleveland Guardians. Although his initial X-rays were reportedly negative for fractures, he discovered the injury after opting for further testing when his hand didn't improve.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The injury halted what's been an excellent spring training for Gelof, whose production took a step backward after leading the AL in strikeouts (188) in 2024 and having his OPS drop over 200 points from his rookie season. But the 25-year-old appeared to look like his old self in camp, hitting .297/.395/.486 with two homers and eight RBIs over 43 Cactus League plate appearances.</p><p>With Gelof out, the A's will need a new second baseman for Opening Day and beyond. Veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5720" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5720">Luis Urías</a>, who joined the West Sacramento-based club as a free agent this offseason, or utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14339" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14339">Max Schuemann</a> are the most likely choices.</p><p>Infield prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14205" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14205">Max Muncy</a> is another internal option, as he's enjoying a breakout spring at the plate. However, Muncy - not to be confused with the Los Angeles Dodgers star of the same name - isn't currently on the A's 40-man roster and has played just 50 games at Triple-A.</p><p>A second-round pick of the A's out of Virginia in 2021, Gelof is a .231/.294/.412 hitter with 31 homers and 81 RBIs across 847 big-league plate appearances since 2023.</p>

MESA, ARIZONA - MARCH 15: Zack Gelof #20 of the Athletics jogs across the field in the fourth inning against the Texas Rangers during a spring training game at HoHoKam Stadium on March 15, 2025 in Mesa, Arizona.

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A's Gelof needs surgery to fix hamate fracture, no timetable for return

The Chicago White Sox released veteran utility player Brandon Drury on Sunday, one day after anno...

<p>The Chicago White Sox released veteran utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3227" href="/mlb/players/3227">Brandon Drury</a> on Sunday, one day after announcing he'd miss the start of the season due to a fractured left thumb.</p><p>Drury had joined the White Sox this offseason on a minor-league contract. The 32-year-old was enjoying a stellar spring before the injury, hitting .410/.439/.821 with a team-high three home runs and 11 RBIs over 13 Cactus League games. That production had Drury in line to make the team as a veteran bat who could cover multiple positions.</p><p>However, the thumb injury interrupted his run. White Sox manager Will Venable said Drury sustained the fracture when he collided with a runner while playing first base during a defensive drill last week, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/whitesox/news/drew-thorpe-to-undergo-tommy-john-surgery">Scott Merkin of MLB.com</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chicago didn't provide a recovery timeline when it announced Drury's injury Saturday but noted that he was scheduled for a follow-up with a doctor on Monday, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3248274" href="https://thescore.com/news/3248274">The Associated Press</a>.</p><p>With Drury out of the organization, the door opens for non-roster invitee <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12412">Nick Maton</a> to head north with the White Sox as a utility player. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12907" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12907">Lenyn Sosa</a> projects to be the club's Opening Day second baseman, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12599" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12599">Miguel Vargas</a> at third and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12483" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12483">Jacob Amaya</a> at shortstop. Two other veteran additions, third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12114" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12114">Josh Rojas</a> and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4992">Mike Tauchman</a>, are expected to start their seasons on the injured list, according to <a href="https://x.com/CST_soxvan/status/1903846496317186255">Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>.</p><p>Drury, a 10-year major-league veteran, won the NL utility Silver Slugger in 2022 with the Cincinnati Reds and San Diego Padres. He continued to produce at the plate the following year to put up a .803 OPS in 125 games for the Los Angeles Angels before regressing to a career-worst .169/.242/.228 slash line during an injury-plagued 2024 campaign.</p><p>Chicago also announced Sunday it optioned right-hander Gus Varland to Triple-A Charlotte to start the campaign.</p><p>The White Sox are looking to improve their fortunes in 2025 after losing a modern-era record 121 games last season.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 20: Brandon Drury of the Chicago White Soxposes for a portrait during photo day at Camelback Ranch on February 20, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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White Sox release Drury after injury halts red-hot spring

Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson will start the 2025 season on the injured list, gene...

<p>Baltimore Orioles shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12258">Gunnar Henderson</a> will start the 2025 season on the injured list, general manager Mike Elias announced Sunday, according to <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1903812810066305356">Jake Rill of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Henderson hasn't appeared in a spring game since suffering a mild right intercostal strain on Feb. 27.</p><p>The 23-year-old will miss a minimum of seven days due to spring training back-dating rules, according to <a href="https://x.com/masnRoch/status/1903812792483783004">MASN's Roch Kubatko</a>. Elias didn't provide a firm timetable for Henderson's regular-season debut but is optimistic that he won't need a prolonged IL stint.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Obviously, I'm very hopeful that the IL stint will be measured in days instead of weeks, but I don't have a crystal ball," Elias said, per <a href="https://x.com/masnRoch/status/1903835239291453910">Kubatko</a>. "But he's doing well, and it's a matter of getting him prepared for the season, getting him at-bats, measuring his recovery."</p><p>Henderson didn't receive an MRI after sustaining the injury last month. He resumed hitting drills nearly two weeks ago in hopes of being ready for Opening Day.</p><p>Henderson is coming off a breakout 2024 season in which he finished fourth in AL MVP voting after hitting .281/.364/.529 with 37 homers, 92 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases for the Orioles. In 2023, he won AL Rookie of the Year and a Silver Slugger.</p><p>While Henderson is sidelined, the Orioles can shuffle their infield by moving <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15504" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15504">Jackson Holliday</a> from second base to shortstop and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12662" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12662">Jordan Westburg</a> from third to second. Former Gold Glove-winning infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10610" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10610">Ramón Urías</a> can slot into the starting lineup at the hot corner.</p><p>Utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5404" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5404">Jorge Mateo</a>, who's recovering from elbow surgery, could also factor into the infield equation if his health allows. Although he'll remain in Florida for the next few days, Baltimore has yet to rule out Mateo from the season opener, Elias said, <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1903813092242342044">Rill</a> reports.</p><p>The Orioles did get one piece of good news Sunday when they revealed that former All-Star closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13632" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13632">Félix Bautista</a> will be active for Opening Day, manager Brandon Hyde announced, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/masnRoch/status/1903843767364309441">Kubatko</a>.</p><p>Bautista, 29, missed all of last season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. The 2023 AL Reliever of the Year finally got back on the mound this spring, where he's put up a 7.71 ERA with nine strikeouts and three walks in 4 2/3 Grapefruit League innings.</p><p>Injuries have hit the Orioles hard this spring. Reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5892" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5892">Andrew Kittredge</a> underwent knee surgery in early March and will miss the first few months of the season, while young ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a> will open the year on the IL due to elbow inflammation. Rodriguez will travel with the team but still needs to build himself back up before returning, according to <a href="https://x.com/afkostka/status/1903813677892968937">Andy Kostka of the Baltimore Banner</a>.</p><p>Baltimore opens its 2025 season on Thursday afternoon in Toronto. The team's home opener is scheduled for March 31.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - OCTOBER 01: Gunnar Henderson #2 of the Baltimore Orioles reacts after striking out against the Kansas City Royals during the fifth inning of Game One of the Wild Card Series at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on October 01, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Orioles' Henderson to open season on IL, closer Bautista ready to return

The Texas Rangers placed right-hander Dane Dunning on outright waivers, sources told Joel Sherman...

<p>The Texas Rangers placed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8152" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8152">Dane Dunning</a> on outright waivers, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/1903799064170295711">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>Any team that claims Dunning will take on his $2.66-million salary. If Dunning goes unclaimed, Texas can outright him to the minors. He has one minor-league option and one year of arbitration eligibility remaining.</p><p>Dunning enjoyed a breakout season during the Rangers' World Series-winning 2023 campaign. He started that year in the bullpen but forced his way into the rotation with a solid performance, finishing 2023 with a 3.70 ERA and 140 strikeouts across 172 2/3 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Dunning couldn't maintain that success, as he ended last season in the bullpen. He made 26 appearances and 15 starts in 2024 due to shoulder issues while posting a career-worst 5.31 ERA and 1.44 WHIP. He also recorded a 3.8 BB/9 rate.</p><p>Dunning's struggles continued in spring training. Although he has 14 strikeouts in camp, Dunning also put up an 8.18 ERA and allowed four home runs in 11 Cactus League innings. The emergence of top prospects <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13876" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13876">Jack Leiter</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15735" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15735">Kumar Rocker</a> and Texas' signing of veteran left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2301" href="/mlb/players/2301">Patrick Corbin</a> also squeezed Dunning out of the team's rotation.</p><p>The Rangers are hoping to shed Dunning's salary to open space on the roster for veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5335" href="/mlb/players/5335">Adrian Houser</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/Evan_P_Grant/status/1903801408744305008">Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News</a>. Houser, who joined the team on a minor-league deal during the offseason, could assume Dunning's role as a swingman with starting experience at the back of Texas' bullpen. He owns a 3.77 ERA with 13 strikeouts in 14 1/3 innings this spring.</p><p>Texas acquired Dunning from the Chicago White Sox as part of a package for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1404" href="/wbc/players/1404">Lance Lynn</a> in December 2020.</p>

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 21, 2025: Dane Dunning #33 of the Texas Rangers throws a pitch during the fourth inning of a spring training game against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium on February 21, 2025 in Surprise, Arizona.

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Report: Rangers place Dunning on outright waivers

Jesse Chavez and the Atlanta Braves just can't quit each other.  Less than 48 hours after he was ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1118" href="/mlb/players/1118">Jesse Chavez</a> and the Atlanta Braves just can't quit each other.</p><p>Less than 48 hours after he was cut by the Texas Rangers, the veteran pitcher made yet another return to the Braves organization on a minor-league contract.</p><p>Chavez will be in Braves camp Sunday and will pitch in their Grapefruit League finale against the Baltimore Orioles. His performance could determine whether he makes the team's Opening Day roster, according to <a href="https://x.com/mlbbowman/status/1903792006725255529">Mark Bowman of MLB.com</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We're gonna take a look at him today," manager Brian Snitker said, according to <a href="https://x.com/DOBrienATL/status/1903818525451374834">David O'Brien of The Athletic</a>. I think he always had trouble pitching in Arizona (where the Rangers train), because I don't know that the cutter and all that stuff works for him out there. So we'll see what it looks like today. We're still trying to decide on which way we're going (for the final roster spot)."</p><p>Chavez spent most of the last four seasons in Atlanta, where he became a reliable member of the Braves' bullpen as well as a fan favorite. Long after a brief first stint with the team in 2010, he rejoined in 2021 and turned in a career year as the Braves won the World Series.</p><p>Since then, Chavez has bounced around a bit yet somehow always managed to end up in a Braves uniform. He signed with the Chicago Cubs in March 2022 but was traded back to Atlanta that April. The Braves then dealt him to the Los Angeles Angels for closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4809" href="/mlb/players/4809">Raisel Iglesias</a> at that year's trade deadline only to claim him on waivers less than a month later.</p><p>This latest reunion comes almost a year to the day after a similar spring transaction. On March 25, 2024, Chavez rejoined Atlanta on a minor-league deal following his release from the Chicago White Sox. He posted a 3.13 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with 55 strikeouts over 46 appearances for the Braves last season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Brian Snitker on Jesse Chavez returning to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Braves?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Braves</a> yet again on minor league deal: "I told somebody, I think in February, I said, don't be surprised if Jesse doesn't show up again the end of March. Here he is."<br><br>Chavez will pitch in today's game vs. O's, last game for ATL in FLA.</p>— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOBrienATL/status/1903817983790559542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Chavez had a difficult 2025 camp in Texas, putting up a 9.45 ERA over seven appearances. If he makes the Braves, the 41-year-old would likely do so as a long reliever at the back of the bullpen.</p><p>He owns a lifetime 4.24 ERA, 4.21 FIP, and 1.33 WHIP with 1,036 strikeouts across 1,134 big-league innings with nine teams. The bulk of that work has come during his many stints in Atlanta, where Chavez owns a 3.09 ERA and 1.20 WHIP over 186 appearances.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 01: Jesse Chavez #60 of Atlanta Braves walks off the field in the sixth inning during Game One of the National League Wild Card Series against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on October 1, 2024 in San Diego California.

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Braves, Jesse Chavez reunite again on minor-league deal

Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton was one of three drivers disqualified from Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix, ...

<p>Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton was one of three drivers disqualified from Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix, the FIA announced following the race.</p><p>Hamilton's Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc and Alpine's Pierre Gasly were also disqualified.</p><p>Hamilton, who secured his first victory with Ferrari in Friday's sprint race at Shanghai, finished sixth in Sunday's main race. However, the stewards found during a post-race inspection that the rear skid block on Hamilton's car was below the minimum thickness.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The plank assembly of Car 44 was measured and found to be 8.6 mm (LHS), 8.6 mm (car centerline), and 8.5mm (RHS)," FIA stewards wrote, according to <a href="https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/breaking-hamilton-disqualified-from-chinese-gp-after-skid-block-breach-as.6L1hYOxfmeSeNUnMpHQLaz">Formula1.com</a>. "This is below the minimum thickness of 9mm specified under Article 3.5.9 of the Technical Regulations. </p><p>"During the hearing, the team representative confirmed that the measurement is correct and that all required procedures were performed correctly. The team also acknowledged that there were no mitigating circumstances and that it was a genuine error by the team."</p><p>The disqualification isn't Hamilton's first for skid blocks, losing his second-place finish in the 2023 United States Grand Prix due to this issue.</p><p>Leclerc was disqualified after stewards found his car to be underweight. The ruling meant Leclerc forfeited a fifth-place finish and 10 points.</p><p>Leclerc and Hamilton are the first Ferrari teammates to be DQ'd from the same race, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/F1GuyDan/status/1903771106256851030">theScore's Daniel Valente</a>.</p><p>"Charles was on a one-stop strategy today, and this meant his tire wear was very high, causing the car to be underweight. With regard to Lewis' skid wear, we misjudged the consumption by a small margin," Ferrari <a href="https://x.com/ScuderiaFerrari/status/1903785536550265193">said</a>. "There was no intention to gain any advantage. We will learn from what happened today and make sure we don't make the same mistakes again."</p><p>Gasly, who finished 11th, was also disqualified for his car being underweight.</p><p>The rulings bumped Esteban Ocon up to fifth place, while Lance Stroll and Carlos Sainz moved into the top 10. Sainz earned a single point with his 10th-place result, his first point with Williams.</p>

SHANGHAI, CHINA - MARCH 23: Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain and Ferrari speaks in the media pen during the F1 Grand Prix of China at Shanghai International Circuit on March 23, 2025 in Shanghai, China.

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Ferrari's Hamilton, Leclerc DQ'd from Chinese GP

San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt announced Friday that right-hander Yu Darvish will begin the...

<p>San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt announced Friday that right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2901" href="/mlb/players/2901">Yu Darvish</a> will begin the season on the injured list due to right elbow inflammation, according to <a href="https://x.com/AJCassavell/status/1903144952688939375">AJ Cassavell of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Shildt didn't provide a timetable for Darvish's return.</p><p>"We feel pretty comfortable that some rest and getting ramped back up will be the answer," he said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Darvish has made just two starts this spring due to ongoing elbow issues. He last took the mound March 13, striking out four and walking two in four innings against the Kansas City Royals.</p><p>Shildt labeled Darvish day-to-day Tuesday. He played catch that day, according to <a href="https://x.com/sdutKevinAcee/status/1902107064283074950">Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune</a>.</p><p>Darvish posted a 3.31 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with 78 strikeouts over 16 starts for the Padres in 2024. He missed time last season because of a groin injury.</p><p>The 38-year-old is entering the third season of a six-year, $108-million extension he signed with the Padres in February 2023. Darvish is set to earn $20 million this year.</p><p>Darvish's absence is another blow to a San Diego staff that will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5369" href="/mlb/players/5369">Joe Musgrove</a> this season while he recovers from Tommy John surgery. Knuckleballer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15537" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15537">Matt Waldron</a> is also sidelined with an oblique strain.</p><p>With Darvish out, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9637">Kyle Hart</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17230" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17230">Stephen Kolek</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14200" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14200">Randy Vásquez</a> are vying for the Padres' two vacant rotation spots, according to <a href="https://x.com/AJCassavell/status/1903145314829340925">Cassavell</a>. Each pitcher is scheduled to make one more Cactus League appearance during the final weekend of camp.</p>

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 13: Yu Darvish #11 of the San Diego Padres pitches during a spring training game against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium on March 13, 2025 in Surprise, Arizona.

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Darvish starting season on IL with elbow inflammation

The Atlanta Braves' catcher of the future is heading north.  Drake Baldwin, the Braves' top prosp...

<p>The Atlanta Braves' catcher of the future is heading north.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15587" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15587">Drake Baldwin</a>, the Braves' top prospect, was selected to Atlanta's major-league roster Friday following a stellar spring performance, the team announced.</p><p>Baldwin burst through the door to emerge as the Braves' likely Opening Day catcher after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8467" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8467">Sean Murphy</a> sustained a rib injury early in spring training. In 14 Grapefruit League games, he hit .313/.436/.375 and took seven walks while striking out just twice over 39 plate appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 23-year-old was Atlanta's third-round draft pick out of Missouri State in 2022. Baldwin continued his ascent through the Braves' system last season by hitting .276/.370/.423 with 16 homers and 88 RBIs over 124 total games split between Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett. He then put up a .942 OPS in the Arizona Fall League.</p><p>Baldwin will presumably be backed up by veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5709" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5709">Chadwick Tromp</a> - the only other active backstop on the Braves' 40-man roster - to start the season. Veteran catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3118" href="/mlb/players/3118">James McCann</a>, who joined Atlanta on a minor-league deal last week, will begin his season in Triple-A.</p><p>Murphy is expected to return from his rib injury at some point in April.</p><p>In addition to Baldwin, the Braves selected right-handed relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9822" href="/mlb/players/9822">Enyel De Los Santos</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3377" href="/mlb/players/3377">Héctor Neris</a> to the active roster.</p>

NORTH PORT, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 21: Drake Baldwin #75 of the Atlanta Braves poses for a portrait during photo day at CoolToday Park on February 21, 2025 in North Port, Florida.

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Braves select top prospect Baldwin after breakout spring

A rare Paul Skenes rookie card pulled by an 11-year-old fan was sold at auction Thursday for $1.1...

<p>A rare <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> rookie card pulled by an 11-year-old fan was sold at auction Thursday for $1.11 million.</p><p>The eye-popping sale price for the 1-of-1 Topps card, which featured Skenes' autograph and his Rookie Debut Patch, makes it the second-most expensive modern baseball card. Only a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a> rookie card that fetched $3.9 million in 2020 went for more, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/44339138/rare-rookie-card-pirates-paul-skenes-fetches-111m-auction">ESPN's Dan Hajducky</a>.</p><p>The figure is also $225,000 more than Skenes' 2025 salary with the Pirates.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHcs7JDNWua/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHcs7JDNWua/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Retailer Dick's Sporting Goods announced Friday that it had acquired the card.</p><p>"Dick’s is passionate about bringing fans closer to the game," Dick’s executive chairman Ed Stack said in a statement, according to <a href="https://www.cllct.com/sports-collectibles/memorabilia/dicks-sporting-goods-revealed-as-buyer-of-paul-skenes-1-1-million-card">Cllct Media's Ben Burrows</a>. "Acquiring the Paul Skenes MLB Debut Patch card enables us to celebrate his incredible talent while giving our athletes a unique opportunity to experience a piece of baseball history up close."</p><p>Topps and MLB introduced the 1-of-1 cards featuring patches worn by rookies during their debuts in 2023. Skenes' card shattered the previous 1-of-1 sale record of $150,000 paid for New York Yankees shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13802" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13802">Anthony Volpe</a>'s card last year.</p><p>Skenes rocketed to superstardom last summer, starting the 2024 All-Star Game for the National League and won NL Rookie of the Year while finishing third in NL Cy Young voting.</p><p>A manhunt for the card ensued in the winter after the Pirates offered a massive reward package to whoever found it, including Pirates season tickets for 30 years, a softball game at PNC Park, autographed Skenes jerseys, batting practice with the team, and other special experiences with the current team and Pirates alumni. Skenes' girlfriend, former LSU gymnast and social media influencer Livvy Dunne, also threw in a Pirates game in her personal suite.</p><p>Ultimately, the 11-year-old Los Angeles resident who pulled the card rejected the team's offers in favor of selling it, which clearly paid off. However, meeting Skenes may still be in the cards, as Fanatics is now working to facilitate a get-together between the pitcher and the lucky winner, Fanatics Marketplace vice president Kevin Lenane told Hajducky.</p><p>The family, which has chosen to remain anonymous, plans to put the $1.1 million into college funds for the child and his brother, Lenane said.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 10: Paul Skenes #30 reacts after pitching in the bottom of the first inning during the regular season game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on August 10, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Rare Skenes rookie card sells for $1.1M at auction

The Texas Rangers have signed veteran left-hander Patrick Corbin to a one-year contract, the club...

<p>The Texas Rangers have signed veteran left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2301" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2301">Patrick Corbin</a> to a one-year contract, the club announced.</p><p>Corbin's deal is worth a little more than $1 million in guaranteed money and contains additional incentive clauses, <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1902090054123888753">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reported.</p><p>To make room for Corbin on the 40-man roster, Texas moved right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4229" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4229">Jon Gray</a> to the 60-day injured list. Gray <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3242630" href="https://thescore.com/news/3242630">fractured</a> his wrist during a recent spring game, and he will be re-evaluated in six weeks after a full shutdown, the Rangers <a href="https://twitter.com/TXRangersPR/status/1902086889060102316">announced</a> Tuesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Corbin's arrival at camp is delayed because his wife is due to give birth at some point in the next two days, president of baseball operations Chris Young said, according to <a href="https://x.com/kennlandry/status/1902092287561363595">Kennedi Landry of MLB.com</a>. It's likely he'll meet his new team in Texas ahead of the Rangers' final exhibition games March 24 and 25 at Globe Life Field.</p><p>The 35-year-old spent the past six seasons with the Washington Nationals, who signed him to a $140-million deal after his 2018 All-Star campaign. He played an integral role in Washington's 2019 World Series championship.</p><p>However, his production fell off dramatically over the final five years of his contract. Corbin's 5.62 ERA since 2020 is the highest in the majors over that span, and he led the NL in losses during three of the past four seasons, including a 19-loss campaign in 2022.</p><p>Despite his overall struggles, Corbin has remained a durable pitcher, making at least 32 starts in every 162-game season since 2017 and throwing 170-plus innings six times. His lifetime 1,892 1/3 innings rank 10th among active pitchers. This was an attractive quality for the Rangers after they lost Gray and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13850" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13850">Cody Bradford</a> to injuries this spring, and they have two members of their rotation (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8161" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8161">Tyler Mahle</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4311" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4311">Jacob deGrom</a>) coming off elbow surgeries.</p><p>"Signing a Patrick Corbin was an opportunity to bring in somebody who has really been an innings stabilizer over the past 10-plus years and a veteran player, competitor, by all accounts (who) just (has) a winning personality," Young told reporters, per <a href="https://x.com/JaredSandler/status/1902091985332412506">Jared Sandler of 105.3 The Fan</a>. "He's gonna fit in the clubhouse well and gives us added protection (against injuries).</p><p>"We also believe that there's some things we saw in the second half of last year with his performance that indicate he can continue that, and be a very serviceable major-league starting pitcher, which we need right now."</p><p>Adding Corbin also means top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15735" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15735">Kumar Rocker</a> can start his season in the minors. Rocker, who made his MLB debut last season, has endured a rough spring, posting a 22.85 ERA in three Cactus League starts.</p><p>Corbin owns a lifetime 103-131 record with a 4.51 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, and 1,729 strikeouts across 12 big-league seasons with the Nationals and Arizona Diamondbacks. The two-time All-Star's best season came with Arizona in 2018, when he finished fifth in NL Cy Young voting.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 26: Patrick Corbin #46 of the Washington Nationals pitches to the Kansas City Royals during the first inning at Nationals Park on September 26, 2024 in Washington, DC.

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Rangers sign Patrick Corbin to 1-year deal

Alex Verdugo has spent the entire winter looking for a new job, and it appears his search will st...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/5637" href="/wbc/players/5637">Alex Verdugo</a> has spent the entire winter looking for a new job, and it appears his search will stretch into the season.</p><p>The veteran outfielder, who helped the New York Yankees to an AL pennant last season, has yet to receive an MLB offer since becoming a free agent, a source told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6211512/2025/03/18/yankees-alex-verdugo-free-agent/">Brendan Kuty of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Verdugo earned $8.7 million last season, and it's unclear what his asking price might be for 2025. Earlier this month, <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/03/06/sports/yankees-j-d-martinez-arent-close-to-deal-as-search/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reported that the Pittsburgh Pirates briefly touched base with Verdugo about a potential deal in the $8-million range before signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2452" href="/mlb/players/2452">Tommy Pham</a> to a 1-year, $4.025-million contract.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Verdugo's bat took a downturn in the Bronx last season, as he hit a career-worst .233/.291/.356 with 13 homers and 61 RBIs over 149 games as New York's primary left fielder. However, he provided value defensively, collecting eight defensive runs saved in left while committing only one error en route to being named a Gold Glove finalist.</p><p>The Yankees, who acquired Verdugo for three pitchers in a rare trade with the rival Boston Red Sox the previous winter, quickly moved on from him after the World Series. Top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15477" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15477">Jasson Domínguez</a> has been waiting in the wings and will take over left field this year.</p><p>It's unclear why Verdugo's stock has fallen so quickly around the league. Several of his former teammates, including reigning MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a>, told Kuty they were "surprised" that he remains on the market. Judge added that Verdugo "brings so much value and versatility to a team."</p><p>Although he seemed to be popular in the Yankees' clubhouse, Verdugo's four-year Red Sox tenure ended poorly. During the 2023 season, he frequently butted heads with manager Alex Cora and was benched for one game after reportedly showing up late.</p><p>The 28-year-old is a lifetime .272/.328/.414 hitter with 70 homers, 316 RBIs, and 22 stolen bases across eight big-league seasons with the Yankees, Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Verdugo was one of the key pieces Boston acquired in the blockbuster 2020 trade that sent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> to Hollywood.</p><p>Verdugo isn't the only big name still available on the eve of Opening Day. Two of his former All-Star teammates, first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1681" href="/mlb/players/1681">Anthony Rizzo</a> and designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1939" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1939">J.D. Martinez</a>, also remain free agents after not finding deals to their liking.</p><p>Rizzo told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6152452/2025/02/21/anthony-rizzo-world-series-game-5-free-agency/">Kuty and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a> last month that he wants to play but won't take a below-market contract. Meanwhile, Martinez had brief talks with the Yankees earlier this winter following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a>'s elbow injury, but those discussions never gained much traction, Heyman <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/02/27/sports/giancarlo-stanton-uncertainty-leaving-yankees-in-a-dh-bind/">reported</a> in February.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 20: Alex Verdugo #24 of the New York Yankees reacts after striking out swinging in the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium on August 20, 2024 in New York City.

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New York Yankees right-hander Clarke Schmidt was scratched from his scheduled start Monday agains...

<p>New York Yankees right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a> was scratched from his scheduled start Monday against the Toronto Blue Jays due to a sore shoulder.</p><p>However, it appears that Schmidt managed to avoid any serious injury. He said he felt "really good" following Monday's 24-pitch bullpen session and still expects to make his first start of the regular season on schedule, according to <a href="https://x.com/pcaldera/status/1901642583241011705">Pete Caldera of the Bergen Record</a>.</p><p>Due to the shoulder issue and a stiff back earlier in March, New York is targeting the sixth game of the season - April 3 against the Arizona Diamondbacks - for Schmidt's 2025 debut, <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/clarke-schmidt-scratched-with-shoulder-injury">MLB.com's Bryan Hoch</a> reported Sunday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Schmidt is expected to stay back in Florida and keep building his stamina before his first start, according to Hoch. The Yankees have two off days within the first six days of their season, allowing them to be flexible with their early rotation plans.</p><p>The Yankees have been battered by injuries to the rotation this spring with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> undergoing season-ending elbow surgery and reigning AL Rookie of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a> sidelined with a strained lat.</p><p>Manager Aaron Boone said Sunday that Schmidt isn't scheduled to undergo any tests on his shoulder.</p><p>"With some of the attrition we've had, it's not something we want to push,” Boone said Sunday, per Hoch. "He's just not bouncing back as well as he wanted to."</p><p>Schmidt posted a 2.85 ERA and 9.81 K/9 and amassed 1.7 fWAR in 16 starts for the Yankees in 2024.</p><p>The 29-year-old will be part of a Yankees rotation that's also expected to include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a>.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 21: Clarke Schmidt #36 of the New York Yankees pitches during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at Yankee Stadium on May 21, 2024 in New York City.

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

Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Hyeseong Kim, who joined the team this offseason after having starr...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18725" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18725">Hyeseong Kim</a>, who joined the team this offseason after having starred in his native South Korea, will begin his season in Triple-A, the team announced.</p><p>The decision means that Kim will not travel with the Dodgers to Tokyo for their season-opening games against the Chicago Cubs next week.</p><p>The Dodgers signed Kim to a three-year, $12.5-million contract in January, which included two club option years. He moved to the majors after an eight-year run with the KBO's Kiwoom Heroes in which he hit .304/.364/.403 and won four Gold Gloves.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kim was considered a prime candidate to start at second for the Dodgers and was also set to see time at both shortstop and center field. However, his struggles at the plate may have become too pronounced for the team's liking. The 26-year-old's hit just .207/.303/.310 with one homer, three RBIs, and 11 strikeouts over 33 plate appearances thus far in Cactus League play.</p><p>With Kim headed to Oklahoma City and utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9695" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9695">Tommy Edman</a> expected to man center, the Dodgers now need to look for an alternative at second base. One possibility would be to shift <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a>, who spent the winter learning shortstop, back to his natural infield position and start <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a> at shortstop. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3941" href="/mlb/players/3941">Chris Taylor</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2444" href="/mlb/players/2444">Enrique Hernández</a> also have experience at the keystone position.</p><p>Manager Dave Roberts also revealed Tuesday that right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9723" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9723">Tony Gonsolin</a>, who missed all of last season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, will open the season on the injured list with a back injury. Gonsolin hurt his back while lifting weights, Roberts said, according to <a href="https://x.com/THEREAL_DV/status/1899597297115349041">David Vassegh of AM 570 Los Angeles</a>. The exact nature of his injury isn't clear, and it's unknown how long Gonsolin will be sidelined.</p><p>With Gonsolin out, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9566">Dustin May</a> - who also didn't pitch in 2024 - made the team as L.A.'s fifth starter, Roberts said. May won't join the team in Japan and will instead stay in Arizona to prepare for his first regular-season start.</p><p>The Dodgers will open the 2025 campaign with two contests against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19 at the Tokyo Dome. Japanese superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a> will start the season opener in Tokyo for L.A., while Dodgers rookie sensation <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18692" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18692">Roki Sasaki</a> will make his MLB debut in his homeland by starting Game 2 of the series.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 02, 2025: Hyeseong Kim #6 of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms up during the ninth inning of a spring training game against the Chicago White Sox at Camelback Ranch on March 02, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Dodgers option $12.5M signing Kim to Triple-A; Gonsolin will start on IL

McLaren locked up star Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri to a multi-year contract extension, the tea...

<p>McLaren locked up star Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri to a multi-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>Details of the pact weren't revealed, aside from McLaren saying the partnership will continue "for the long term."</p><p>Piastri's previous deal with the British F1 team was scheduled to expire in 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's a great feeling knowing that I'm part of McLaren's long-term vision," Piastri said in a <a href="https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2025/mclaren-formula-1-team-announce-multi-year-contract-extension-with-oscar-piastri/">statement</a>. "The team had the belief in me when we signed in 2022, and the journey we've gone on over the past two seasons to help return McLaren to the very top of the sport has been incredible. </p><p>"There are so many talented and special people working at the MTC who have helped me to become a Formula 1 race winner very early in my career. Therefore, I'm very proud to be continuing to represent this legendary team for many years to come."</p><p>Piastri first joined McLaren to replace Daniel Ricciardo in 2023. The 23-year-old won in Hungary and Azerbaijan last season en route to a fourth-place finish in the drivers' championship. He also helped McLaren secure the constructors' title.</p>

BAKU, AZERBAIJAN - SEPTEMBER 15: Oscar Piastri of Australia and McLaren F1 Team on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September 15, 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

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McLaren inks Piastri to multi-year extension

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

<p>New York Yankees ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> is out for the season after the club announced Monday that he needs Tommy John surgery to repair his right elbow.</p><p>Cole will undergo the procedure Tuesday in Los Angeles.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHCSrq6xWcq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHCSrq6xWcq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHCSrq6xWcq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Gerrit Cole (@gerritcole45)</a></p>
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<script async src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The 34-year-old complained of soreness after he allowed six earned runs in 2 2/3 innings in a spring outing March 6 against the Minnesota Twins. He subsequently underwent diagnostic testing and then visited Dr. Neal ElAttrache for a second opinion after admitting to being "concerned" about his elbow. Dr. ElAttrache will perform Cole's surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cole also visited Dr. ElAttrache last March after experiencing elbow issues in spring training. At that time, surgery was ruled out, and Cole instead rested for nearly two months. He returned to the Yankees' rotation in June and made 17 starts down the stretch, plus another five during their AL pennant run.</p><p>Cole had taken steps to avoid a repeat of what happened in 2024 by beginning his spring throwing program earlier than usual, according to <a href="https://x.com/BrendanKutyNJ/status/1898229569544441920">Brendan Kuty of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The 2023 AL Cy Young winner has been one of baseball's top starters since joining the Yankees, winning 59 games with a 3.12 ERA and 10.8 K/9 in 125 starts.</p><p>Cole briefly opted out of the final four years of his contract in November. However, he changed his mind when the Yankees informed him they wouldn't void the move by adding a guaranteed 10th year to his deal. He's now owed $144 million through 2028.</p><p>New York will likely rely on a rotation of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a> with Cole and fellow starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a> out of action. Other internal rotation options include non-roster invitees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/158" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/158">Carlos Carrasco</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14073" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14073">Sean Boyle</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9863" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9863">Brandon Leibrandt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18903" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18903">Erick Leal</a>.</p>

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

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Cole to undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery

It's full steam ahead for Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara.  The 2022 NL Cy Young winner said Sa...

<p>It's full steam ahead for Miami Marlins ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5647" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5647">Sandy Alcantara</a>.</p><p>The 2022 NL Cy Young winner said Saturday that no plans are in place for him to be on any innings limits this season as he returns from Tommy John surgery.</p><p>"There is people trying to talk a lot of shit on (social) media, on Twitter, and everywhere, but we don't need to think about it, and that's not true," Alcantara told <a href="https://x.com/CraigMish/status/1898449108043440633">Craig Mish of SportsGrid</a>. "I don't say nothing (about innings restrictions), the organization don't say nothing (about it), and before they say something like that, they need to communicate it to me first."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Alcantara broke out in 2022 to earn the Cy Young unanimously with a masterful season on a 93-loss Marlins club. He led the majors in innings (228 2/3), complete games (six), and shutouts (one), along with a 2.28 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, and 207 strikeouts across 32 starts.</p><p>Though he again led the NL in complete games and shutouts in 2023, his ERA ballooned to 4.14 and his K/9 rate dipped by almost a full batter from the year before. Miami shut him down in late September and he underwent reconstructive elbow surgery a few weeks later, shortly after the Marlins were eliminated from the playoffs. The timing of the procedure meant Alcantara wasn't able to pitch at all in 2024, even on a rehab assignment.</p><p>Although it's a small sample size, Alcantara's been looking like his old self early in spring training. The 29-year-old hasn't allowed a run in 5 2/3 Grapefruit League innings, and he even touched triple digits on the radar gun.</p><p>Now that he seems to be back to his Cy Young-caliber self, questions about Alcantara's future in South Florida are growing louder. He's the last remaining star on the rebuilding Marlins, and his name's already been floated in some corners as a trade candidate for contenders with rotation holes.</p><p>The two-time All-Star is tuning out the trade chatter, though, and was adamant that it won't affect his pitching once the season begins.</p><p>"No, that's not gonna affect myself because I know the way that I prepare myself. I know the way that I compete. And, anything they want to say (about me) they can say it," he told <a href="https://x.com/CraigMish/status/1898453622725226904">Mish</a>. "I'm here now, I feel happy to be here, I feel happy for the opportunity that (the Marlins are) giving to me, and I just need to be out there every fifth day and compete and give my 100% every time.</p><p>"Depending on what they wanna do with me, I'm fine with it. But before they do it, they need to talk to me first."</p>

JUPITER, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Sandy Alcantara #22 of the Miami Marlins looks on during warmups prior to the game between the New York Mets and the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 in Jupiter, Florida.

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Marlins' Alcantara won't have innings limits in return from elbow surgery

New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole is "concerned" about what MRI results will reveal about his pitc...

<p>New York Yankees ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> is "concerned" about what MRI results will reveal about his pitching elbow, according to <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1898370109355291075">Bryan Hoch of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Cole <a href="http://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1898370561547325927">said</a> he will know more in the next few days and is "hoping for the best."</p><p>The right-hander added that imaging of his elbow has been distributed, and he's already seeking second opinions, although no appointments that require travel have been booked.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm just waiting for the experts to weigh in," the 34-year-old <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1898372800726847491">said</a>.</p><p>Cole experienced elbow discomfort after allowing six runs, including two homers, over 2 2/3 innings in a Grapefruit League start Thursday against the Minnesota Twins.</p><p>"In the game there was a lot of good stuff happening the other day, but as I got home I just continued to get more and more sore," Cole <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1898370561547325927">said</a>. "Something wasn't right."</p><p>The 2023 AL Cy Young winner also hurt his elbow around this time last year, forcing him to begin 2024 on the injured list. He didn't make his first start of the campaign until June 19.</p><p>Cole remained healthy down the stretch last year, posting a 3.41 ERA with 99 strikeouts over 17 regular-season starts for the Yankees. He then put up a 2.17 ERA with 22 strikeouts over five playoff starts during New York's run to the World Series.</p><p>A long-term injury to Cole would be devastating to a Yankees rotation that's already poised to open the season without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a>, who suffered a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3234643" href="https://thescore.com/news/3234643">lat strain</a> early in camp. Rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a> and veteran non-roster invitee <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/158" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/158">Carlos Carrasco</a> would be among the in-house possibilities to join the rotation if another spot opens up.</p><p>The Yankees have been hit hard by injuries in the opening weeks of spring training. In addition to Cole and Gil, designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a> has been shut down because of injuries to both <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3236035" href="https://thescore.com/news/3236035">elbows</a>, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2093" href="/mlb/players/2093">DJ LeMahieu</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4339" href="/mlb/players/4339">Tyler Matzek</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12490" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12490">Clayton Beeter</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13602" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13602">Scott Effross</a> have also gotten hurt.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Gerrit Cole #45 of the New York Yankees inspects a baseball in the third inning during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 28, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Cole 'concerned' about pending MRI results on his elbow

The Baltimore Orioles' pitching depth will be tested to start the season.  Right-hander Grayson R...

<p>The Baltimore Orioles' pitching depth will be tested to start the season.</p><p>Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a> and reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5892" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5892">Andrew Kittredge</a> will both open their seasons on the injured list, manager Brandon Hyde announced, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByMattWeyrich/status/1898135991078338918">Matt Weyrich of the Baltimore Sun</a>.</p><p>Rodriguez is sidelined due to elbow discomfort, while Kittredge needed arthroscopic knee surgery, which he underwent Friday, per <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1898374444139127219">Jake Rill of MLB.com</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rodriguez has been feeling discomfort in the back of his elbow, Hyde explained, according to <a href="https://x.com/afkostka/status/1898134519909134667">Andy Kostka of the Baltimore Banner</a>. He was also dealing with triceps soreness on Thursday.</p><p>Rodriguez is now seeking second opinions on his injury, and the Orioles don't know how long he'll be sidelined.</p><p>"It's not a ligament issue, so we're not concerned about that. But it's going to result in some missed time," Hyde said, per <a href="https://www.masnsports.com/blog/rodriguez-and-kittredge-appear-headed-to-the-injured-list-by-opening-day">MASN's Roch Kubatko</a>. "We're getting results, we're talking to multiple people about what the treatment, et cetera is as of right now. The timeline, we're not sure on it, but it's not the ligament."</p><p>The 25-year-old Rodriguez went 13-4 with a 3.86 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and 130 strikeouts over 20 starts for the Orioles last season. He missed time in 2024 because of shoulder and lat injuries.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15589" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15589">Cade Povich</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17501" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17501">Albert Suárez</a> are the two likeliest candidates to break camp in the rotation following Rodriguez's injury, Hyde noted.</p><p>"It's unfortunate with Grayson, we're hoping for the best, but we're gonna need more than five starters all year. We used 13 last year, I think," Hyde said. "So we're gonna need guys to step up. We definitely have experience in the rotation right now and that's important."</p><p>Kittredge, meanwhile, was slated to be a key late-inning weapon for Baltimore ahead of closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13632" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13632">Félix Bautista</a> after joining the club on a one-year, $10-million contract. The 34-year-old first felt some knee soreness while warming up in the bullpen before a Grapefruit League game and underwent an MRI earlier this week.</p><p>It's expected that Kittredge will miss "a few months," Hyde said.</p><p>The news about Rodriguez and Kittredge comes just a few days after star shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12258" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12258">Gunnar Henderson</a> left a game with what was later deemed an intercostal strain. It's still unclear if Henderson will be ready for Opening Day.</p>

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 23: Grayson Rodriguez #30 of the Baltimore Orioles at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 23, 2024 in Anaheim, California.

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Orioles' Rodriguez, Kittredge to start season on IL

Toronto Blue Jays superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr. offered some insight into his recent negotiatio...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> offered some insight into his recent negotiations with the club that failed to yield an extension.</p><p>Guerrero said he was asking for a long-term contract in the range of 14 years but for less overall money than the $765 million <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> got from the New York Mets this past winter.</p><p>"It's much less than Soto. We're talking about many fewer millions than Soto, more than a hundred million less. ... It was the same number of years (as Soto), but it didn't reach 600 (million)," Guerrero told <a href="https://espndeportes.espn.com/video/clip/_/id/14880972">ESPN's Enrique Rojas and Ernesto Jerez</a> in a Spanish interview translated by <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/44143628/vladimir-guerrero-jr-says-final-offer-600-million-blue-jays-extension-talk">ESPN's Alden González</a>. "The last number we gave them as a counteroffer didn't reach 600.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I know the business. I lowered the salary demands a bit, but I also lowered the number of years. ... I'm looking for 14 (years). I would like 14, 15, even 20 if they give them to me, but doing it the right way."</p><p>Guerrero ended extension talks with the Blue Jays after he and the team couldn't reach an agreement before his self-imposed deadline of the start of spring training. As a result, he'll play out this year in Toronto and then test free agency.</p><p>"They had their numbers, I had my numbers," the Montreal-born Dominican star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220568" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220568">told reporters</a> last month about negotiations.</p><p>Although he couldn't secure an extension, Guerrero hasn't ruled out re-signing with the Blue Jays during the offseason. However, he'll be open to listening to offers from all 30 teams - including the New York Yankees, who he'd adamantly ruled out playing for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3224245" href="https://thescore.com/news/3224245">until recently</a>.</p><p>Despite the failed negotiations, Guerrero insists he's ready to give the Blue Jays everything he's got on the field in 2025.</p><p>"As I've always said, just because we couldn't reach an agreement, I'm not going to change the way I work. I have to keep working," he said.</p><p>Guerrero, who turns 26 on March 16, is looking to build off a bounce-back 2024 campaign that saw him hit .323/.396/.544 with 30 homers and 103 RBIs over 159 games. He's off to a good start this spring, hitting .400 (8-for-20) with four RBIs and a 1.105 OPS over eight Grapefruit League contests.</p>

DUNEDIN, FL - FEBRUARY 25: Toronto Blue Jays DH Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) points at a friend in the St. Louis dugout during the spring training game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Toronto Blue Jays on February 25, at the TD Ballpark in Dunedin, FL.

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Vladdy details talks with Jays: Asking price was 'much less than Soto'

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Josh Goldberg

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Bryan Mcwilliam

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