Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin was given a five-game suspension for slashing Buffalo's...

<p>Pittsburgh Penguins forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a> was given a five-game suspension for slashing Buffalo's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a> in the face, the NHL announced Friday.</p><p>Early in the second period of Thursday's game, Malkin responded to a cross-check from Dahlin by swinging his stick directly into the defenseman's face. Malkin received a match penalty and was ejected.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Malkin just slashed Dahlin across the face... <a href="https://t.co/xYqzrjlrbH">pic.twitter.com/xYqzrjlrbH</a></p>— The Charging Buffalo (@TheChargingBUF) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheChargingBUF/status/2029724299594961250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The NHL Department of Player Safety <a href="https://www.nhl.com/video/topic/player-safety/malkin-suspended-5-games-6390516868112">called</a> his actions "intentional" and said that Malkin's slash was "delivered with requisite force for supplemental discipline."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This is the second time in Malkin's career that he's been suspended by the NHL for a stick-related incident; he received a one-game ban in 2019 after committing a similar foul that also resulted in a match penalty.</p><p>Malkin, 39, has tallied 13 goals and 47 points along with 51 penalty minutes over 46 games for the Penguins this season.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 22: Evgeni Malkin #71 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates during the game against the Seattle Kraken at PPG PAINTS Arena on November 22, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Malkin suspended 5 games for slashing Dahlin in face

Bryce Harper is thrilled to be representing his country in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but h...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> is thrilled to be representing his country in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, but he considers the tournament a stepping stone toward an even bigger stage.</p><p>"Obviously the WBC is great, but it's not the Olympics," the American superstar told <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2030053542749167764">Bob Nightengale of USA Today</a> on Friday before Team USA's WBC opener against Brazil. "That's no disrespect to the WBC or anything. But everybody knows when the Olympics are on, everybody is watching. Doesn't matter what sport it is. It could be the most random sport, and it has all of the fans watching it."</p><p>Baseball is returning to the Olympics in 2028, when Los Angeles hosts the Summer Games. The sport hasn't been contested at the Olympics since 2020, and it could be a one-off event. The International Olympic Committee added baseball and softball as "optional" sports on account of their popularity in the United States, as it did in 2020, when Tokyo hosted.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Baseball was a regular Olympic sport from 1992-2008. While professionals from Japan and Korea often participated in past Olympics, MLB never allowed its players to participate, with the exception of minor-leaguers who weren't on 40-man rosters.</p><p>Many MLB players have publicly expressed their desire to play in the 2028 Olympics. Commissioner Rob Manfred is open to the idea as well, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3477805" href="https://thescore.com/news/3477805">saying</a> in February that he's optimistic it will happen. To do so, the league would have to schedule a midseason break in July, with the Olympic tournament essentially replacing that year's All-Star Game.</p><p>The players and owners would also have to agree to such a break in the next collective bargaining agreement. Harper, who's set to play in his first WBC, believes that allowing MLB players to take part in the Olympics would give the sport an even grander stage.</p><p>"I hope LA28 happens," Harper said. "I'm hoping the next CBA agreement can happen where teams and players can come to an agreement on taking that two-week break, especially it being in our home country. It would be great for baseball. You talk about growing the game, and being able to grow it at the highest level would help out tremendously."</p><p>Unlike the 20-team WBC, the next Summer Games will feature a six-team tournament. The WBC is acting as a partial qualifier for the event, with Olympic berths being awarded to the top two teams from the Americas based on the overall standings (excluding Team USA, which automatically qualifies as the host nation).</p><p>Japan beat the U.S. to win gold at the 2020 Olympics, while the Dominican Republic took home bronze.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 05: Bryce Harper #24 of Team USA looks on during 2026 World Baseball Classic Pool B Workouts at Daikin Park on March 05, 2026 in Houston, Texas.

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Harper ahead of WBC debut: 'It's not the Olympics'

The Chicago Bears are releasing former Pro Bowl linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, sources told ESPN's ...

<p>The Chicago Bears are releasing former Pro Bowl linebacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/99556" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/99556">Tremaine Edmunds</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2029745655720382707">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Chicago had granted Edmunds permission to seek a trade in February.</p><p>Cutting Edmunds gives the Bears an additional $15 million in cap space heading into the new league year. He was slated to earn $13.9 million in 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The move follows Chicago's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3492082" href="https://thescore.com/news/3492082">reported</a> trade of wideout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97110" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97110">DJ Moore</a> to the Buffalo Bills.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Between the trade of DJ Moore, release of Tremaine Edmunds and retirement of Drew Dalman, the Bears have about $44M in new cap space as of this week.<br><br>Be it addressing C or fortifying the defense, Chicago has spending power.</p>— Field Yates (@FieldYates) <a href="https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/2029746326196433287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Edmunds, 27, spent the last three seasons in Chicago, where he recorded 190 tackles, two sacks, and nine interceptions across 45 games.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 10: Tremaine Edmunds #49 of the Chicago Bears lines up during an NFL wild card playoff game against the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field on January 10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Bears releasing Edmunds

Find the biggest stories and top news from the World Baseball Classic by visiting our WBC news se...

<p><em>Find the biggest stories and top news from the World Baseball Classic by visiting our <a href="thescore:///wbc/news">WBC news section</a> and subscribing to push notifications for both the tournament and your national team.</em></p><p>Riding the high of the 2023 World Baseball Classic, it's easy to get excited for another potential USA-Japan rematch in the final. But let's not get too far ahead of ourselves. Before the knockout round comes pool play, and the four groups all have intriguing matchups loaded with storylines. Here are five must-watch games on the schedule at this year's World Baseball Classic.</p><h3>March 7: South Korea vs. Japan</h3><p>📺: 5 a.m. ET </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>You're likely going to need to set an alarm for this one if you're in North America, but Asia's most heated international baseball rivalry is worth the early wakeup call. However, it's been a rather one-sided rivalry lately, as Samurai Japan hasn't lost to South Korea in any tourney since the 2015 Premier12 Tournament semifinals. Japan also won when these teams last met in the WBC three years ago during the group stage, so revenge will certainly be on South Korea's mind. This contest will be the second Pool C game for both squads, meaning the winner could secure a better quarterfinal seeding if both advance. Asian baseball crowds can make a day at the diamond feel more like a soccer match, with nonstop chants, energy, and noise that makes the stadium shake - and that's just for a regular-season game. When it's Japan hosting South Korea at the Tokyo Dome, everything gets kicked up several dozen notches.</p><h3>March 8: Dominican Republic vs. Netherlands</h3><p>📺: 12 p.m. ET </p><p>The Dominicans need not be reminded of what the Dutch can do on the diamond. Seventeen years ago, the Netherlands pulled off what's still the biggest <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bY3pt_94etw">upset</a> in WBC history by eliminating a star-studded Dominican Republic team that was expected to cruise to the title. This year, the Dutch have another chance to throw a wrench into the plans. Though the Dominicans are the clear favorite in Pool D, this matchup with the Netherlands looms as a trap if they're not careful. The Honkbalers, meanwhile, must win this outing if they hope to advance for the first time since reaching the semifinals in 2017. It's not necessarily a traditional rivalry game, but given what's likely at stake, this isn't one to miss.</p><h3>March 9: Mexico vs. United States</h3><p>📺: 8 p.m. ET </p><p>It's always a show when the United States and Mexico meet, regardless of the sport. Given recent events on and off the diamond, this game between Pool B favorites could take on a new level of significance on both sides of the border. Three years ago, Mexico beat the U.S. 11-5 in group play, ultimately winning the pool on a tiebreaker. That loss will surely give the Americans extra motivation, making this their long-awaited shot at revenge. Both teams are also stronger this time around, setting the stage for a higher level of competition. Add in what should be an electric atmosphere in Houston - a city that's home to large Mexican and Hispanic populations - and you have all the ingredients for an instant classic.</p><h3>March 10: Canada vs. Puerto Rico</h3><p>📺: 7 p.m. ET </p><p>This matchup will almost certainly be a must-win game for both teams. Canada, still seeking its first trip past the opening round of the WBC, has a chance to enter this contest 2-0 if it can beat Colombia and Panama. Even at 1-1, Ernie Whitt's Canadian squad could be primed to make history. However, standing in the way is a hungry Puerto Rican team buoyed by a raucous home crowd at San Juan's Hiram Bithorn Stadium. Unlike Canada, Puerto Rico has advanced out of the first round in each of the five previous WBCs and has twice reached the finals. To do that again, it must beat Canada in what'll be the team's final pool game. Canada and Puerto Rico may not be natural rivals, but there will certainly be plenty of tension between the strongest squads in Pool A. </p><h3>March 11: Dominican Republic vs. Venezuela</h3><p>📺: 8 p.m. ET </p><p>The two Pool D heavyweights have to wait until the final game of the group to square off. But even if they're just jockeying for quarterfinal positioning, this contest should be an absolute doozy. The Dominican Republic and Venezuela are proud baseball nations that have expectations of winning it all. Their fan bases are loud, spirited, and turn ballparks into giant parties. It's the kind of matchup that brings out the best in players and should feature incredible passion on both sides. Since it's the last game of Pool D and the tournament is short, there's a chance this ends up as a win-or-go-home showdown for either side or maybe even both. What a treat that would be if the baseball gods were to make it happen.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 21: A detail shot of the World Baseball Classic championship trophy on the field during the opening ceremony prior to the 2023 World Baseball Classic Championship game between Team USA and Team Japan at loanDepot Park on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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5 must-watch games at 2026 World Baseball Classic 

There's a dark horse in the Kyler Murray sweepstakes quietly waiting to see if he'll pick a new c...

<p>There's a dark horse in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97952" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97952">Kyler Murray</a> sweepstakes quietly waiting to see if he'll pick a new career path.</p><p>The NFL's Arizona Cardinals will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3490563" href="https://thescore.com/news/3490563">reportedly</a> release the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback next week. However, the Athletics - who still hold Murray's baseball rights after drafting him in 2018 - said Wednesday that the organization would welcome him back should he wish to return to the diamond.</p><p>"Kyler is an elite NFL quarterback and I'm sure there are plenty of opportunities for him to continue his football career," Athletics general manager David Forst told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/news/kyler-murray-released-a-s-open-to-reunion-with-former-first-round-draft-pick?t=mlb-pipeline-coverage">Martín Gallegos of MLB.com</a>. "That said, he and his baseball representatives know that we're always open to him exploring a return to baseball with the A's if that time ever comes."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Murray was a legitimate two-sport star in college at Oklahoma. Months before winning the Heisman Trophy in 2018, he hit .296/.398/.556 with 10 homers, 47 RBIs, and 10 steals in 51 games as the Sooners' starting center fielder.</p><p>The A's saw enough baseball potential to select him ninth overall in the 2018 MLB Draft and handed him a $4.66-million signing bonus while allowing him to continue playing football at Oklahoma. He was expected to begin his pro baseball career in 2019, but Murray's Heisman win led him to spurn the diamond for the gridiron before playing a game in green and gold. Arizona made him the first overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft.</p><p>By choosing football over baseball, Murray had to return most of his signing bonus to the Athletics. However, because the A's own his baseball rights, he'd have to return to their organization if he did return to the sport. Officially, Murray's been on MLB's restricted list since going pro in football.</p><p>Murray was ranked as the No. 36 prospect by <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/2018/draft/">MLB.com</a> ahead of the 2018 draft, with speed highlighted as his best attribute. After signing him, Athletics president Billy Beane <a href="https://www.mlb.com/athletics/news/kyler-murray-signs-with-athletics-c281361954">declared</a> Murray was "one of the most dynamic athletes that we've selected since I've been here."</p><p>The 28-year-old quarterback has not publicly expressed any interest in returning to baseball. In a post Tuesday on <a href="https://x.com/K1/status/2028937232057549312?s=20">X</a>, Murray wrote: "I truly believe my best ball is in front of me and I look forward to proving it," presumably referring to his NFL career.</p>

OAKLAND, CA - JUNE 15: First round draft pick Kyler Murray of the Oakland Athletics takes batting practice after signing his contract at the Oakland Alameda Coliseum on June 15, 2018 in Oakland, California.

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A's GM: Door is 'always open' if Kyler wants to return to baseball

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WBC Power Rankings: Can anyone prevent a USA-Japan rematch?

<p><em>Find the biggest stories and top news from the World Baseball Classic by visiting our <a href="thescore:///wbc/news">WBC news section</a> and subscribing to push notifications for both the tournament and your national team.</em></p><p>The World Baseball Classic is back, and this time it feels very different. What was once merely an experiment, perhaps even an afterthought, has become a highly anticipated event on baseball's calendar, thanks to an iconic 2023 tournament that featured a memorable, heart-stopping final. Defending champion Samurai Japan is back to try and win a record fourth WBC title. But Team USA is hungry to avenge that gut-wrenching loss, and the Dominican Republic also wants to shake off a disappointing 2023 result - or maybe a Cinderella team will emerge. Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 World Baseball Classic.</p><p><strong>Dates</strong> 🗓: March 5-17<br><strong>Where</strong> 🌎: San Juan, Puerto Rico; Houston, Texas; Tokyo, Japan; Miami, Florida<br><strong>Venues</strong> 🏟: Hiram Bithorn Stadium, Daikin Park, Tokyo Dome, LoanDepot Park<br><strong>How to watch</strong> 📺: Fox Sports 🇺🇸, Sportsnet 🇨🇦<br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3424428" href="https://thescore.com/news/3424428"><strong>Rosters</strong></a></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#Pool%20A">Pool A</a>: 🇵🇷🇨🇺🇨🇦🇵🇦🇨🇴<br><a href="#Pool%20B">Pool B</a>: 🇺🇸🇲🇽🇮🇹🇬🇧🇧🇷<br><a href="#Pool%20C">Pool C</a>: 🇯🇵🇦🇺🇰🇷🇨🇿🇹🇼<br><a href="#Pool%20D">Pool D</a>: 🇩🇴🇻🇪🇳🇱🇮🇱🇳🇮</p><p><strong>Rules of note</strong></p><p>As in past years, the WBC employs some special rules to protect players - and specifically pitchers - during the tournament.</p><ul>
<li>Pitchers can't throw more than 65 pitches in pool play, 80 during the quarterfinals, and 95 in the semifinals and final. Pitchers can only exceed those limits if they're finishing an at-bat.</li>
<li>A pitcher who throws at least 30 pitches in a game must rest for one day, while those who cross the 50-pitch mark will be shut down for the next four days.</li>
<li>Mercy rule will be in effect. Games will end after the seventh inning if a team leads by 10 or more runs and after five if a team is up by at least 15. Mercy rule won't be used during the semifinals and championship game.</li>
<li>Extra-inning games will use the ghost runner.</li>
</ul><p>This edition of the WBC will feature a pitch clock for the first time, with the same rules as in MLB. However, the Automatic Ball-Strike System, which is debuting in the majors this season, won't be used.</p><p><strong>How the tournament works</strong></p><p>The 20 nations are divided into four pools and will face each team in their pool once during round-robin play. The top two teams in each pool advance to the knockout round, played in a single-elimination bracket format.</p><p>If the standings are tied after round-robin play, a <a href="https://www.mlb.com/world-baseball-classic/news/world-baseball-classic-2026-schedule-dates-times-rosters">series of tiebreakers</a> will be used to determine who advances, beginning with head-to-head performance. Tiebreakers were a big storyline in 2013, when a misunderstanding of the rules led to an <a href="https://youtu.be/cjqNtPD63Xo?t=9205">ugly brawl</a> between Canada and Mexico, and in 2023 after all five Pool A teams finished at 2-2.</p><p><strong>Olympics tie-in</strong></p><p>The 2026 WBC will serve as a partial qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic baseball tournament. The two highest-placed teams from the Americas in the WBC's overall standings - not including Team USA, which automatically qualifies as the host nation - will clinch spots in L.A.</p><p><strong>Pool-by-pool breakdown</strong></p><h3><a id="Pool A" name="Pool%20A">Pool A</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/cropped_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w220xh124_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w320xh180_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w640xh360_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w768xh432_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/823338/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1473818247.jpg?ts=1771867979 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Al Bello / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>Hiram Bithorn Stadium (San Juan, Puerto Rico)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool A" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iH5Ed" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iH5Ed/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>This may be the most balanced of the four pools. Puerto Rico is missing many of its biggest stars due to insurance issues and other concerns, but it will have the cushion of home-field advantage for the first time since 2013. Cuba is always a threat on the international stage. The team arguably boasts Pool A's best starter in Lívan Moinelo, the 2025 Pacific League MVP in Japan, and closer in Raidel Martínez, who's allowed just 22 earned runs over the last four NPB seasons. The Canadians, who may have the pool's top lineup even without Freddie Freeman, should have a better chance to finally advance now that they're not placed with the U.S. and Mexico. Colombia and Panama are the minnows here, but don't let your guard down; the burgeoning baseball nations are capable of pulling off an upset.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool A schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VQmyJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VQmyJ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="409" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3><a id="Pool B" name="Pool%20B">Pool B</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/cropped_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781115/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209756188.jpg?ts=1744924476 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>Daikin Park (Houston, Texas)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool B" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-rrCpy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/rrCpy/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The odds - and schedule-makers - certainly favor both North American teams here. Team USA, eager to finish the job after falling to Japan in the 2023 final, is stacked with superstars at the plate and - finally - on the mound. The Americans be very tough to beat, but Mexico, which knocked off the U.S. decisively in pool play in 2023 en route to a breakthrough semifinal appearance, is hungry for more. This Mexican squad is improved and has little fear of its natural rivals. If there's an upset to be had among this pool, it will likely come from Italy, which is hoping to repeat its miracle quarterfinal run but has a much tougher slate of opponents this time around. Brazil, making its first WBC appearance since 2013, is a very young team and may be the tournament weakling. The Brazilians must beat Great Britain just to have a chance at avoiding relegation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool B Schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2Efse" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2Efse/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="409" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3><a id="Pool C" name="Pool%20C">Pool C</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/cropped_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w220xh124_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w320xh180_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w640xh360_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w768xh432_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811353/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1476139153.jpg?ts=1764035467 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christopher Pasatieri / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>Tokyo Dome (Tokyo, Japan)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool C" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SloAm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SloAm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>All roads in Tokyo run through the home team, defending WBC champion Samurai Japan. Anything can happen in a short tournament, but Japan's mix of NPB and MLB superstars - not to mention the best player on earth in Shohei Ohtani - make it hard to see how this team can be toppled in round-robin play. South Korea and Chinese Taipei seem to be the biggest threats as experienced teams with plenty of high-caliber talent. However, both nations stumbled in 2023 and failed to advance. Australia will be looking to upset South Korea again and reach the quarters for a second straight tournament. Czechia's the clear weak link, and though it may struggle to win a game, we already know from last time that this lovable team of semipros won't back down from a fight with the big boys.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool C Schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ypj3X" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ypj3X/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="428" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3><a id="Pool D" name="Pool%20D">Pool D</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/cropped_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w220xh124_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w320xh180_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w640xh360_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w768xh432_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/819249/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1248276814.jpg?ts=1769482869 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rob Tringali / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Location: </strong>LoanDepot Park (Miami, Florida)</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool D" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-PO3Qv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/PO3Qv/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="243" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>A vastly improved Dominican Republic squad is the heavy favorite to bounce back from 2023's disaster and make it to the knockout round. Venezuela's the other powerhouse in this pool and is widely expected to advance, although there were legitimate concerns about its pitching staff even before Pablo López's injury. As always, the true dark horse is the Netherlands, the king of European baseball (or Honkbal, as it's called there) and a two-time WBC semifinalist with a long history of pulling off upsets in this tournament. Israel and Nicaragua will most likely again be locked in a battle to avoid relegation.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pool D Schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-dB98p" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/dB98p/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="503" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Knockout round</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Quarterfinals" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-gWiVL" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gWiVL/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="311" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Semifinals" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-mvJvS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mvJvS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="180" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="WBC Championship Game 🏆" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-t73ry" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/t73ry/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="142" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure>

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World Baseball Classic preview: Everything you need to know

Drew Brees appears ready to return to the San Diego sports scene - this time in the boardroom.  T...

<p>Drew Brees appears ready to return to the San Diego sports scene - this time in the boardroom.</p><p>The Hall of Fame quarterback, who started his illustrious career with the then-San Diego Chargers, is part of a group that's attempting to buy the Padres, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7071964/2026/02/26/padres-sale-drew-brees-joe-kudla-vuori/">Dennis Lin and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>. Brees has reportedly partnered with Joe Kudla, the CEO of clothing company Vuori, to bid for the franchise.</p><p>Brees and Kudla are one of five groups that submitted initial bids for the team prior to Wednesday's deadline, per Lin and Rosenthal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Brees, 47, played for the Chargers from 2001-05 during some of the last years that the NFL team shared a stadium with the Padres. He left San Diego as a free agent in 2006 and spent the remainder of his career with the New Orleans Saints.</p><p>Despite switching teams, Brees has maintained a presence in San Diego and has been spotted at Petco Park several times over the last few years.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Super Bowl champion Drew Brees is taking in some Padres baseball ⚡️ <a href="https://t.co/k9tRAfc9Y0">pic.twitter.com/k9tRAfc9Y0</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1922130281798001125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Kudla, a Southern California native, told <a href="https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/a69384105/vuori-ceo-joe-kudla-interview-workout/">Men's Health</a> in November that he's become good friends with Brees.</p><p>The Brees-Kudla group faces stiff competition for the team, including from Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob, according to Lin and Rosenthal. In previous years, Lacob has unsuccessfully tried to buy other MLB teams, including the Los Angeles Angels and the Athletics before they left Oakland.</p><p>Other potential buyers include José E. Feliciano, owner of the English Premier League's Chelsea FC, and San Diego native Dan Friedkin, the chairman of European soccer clubs Everton and AS Roma, reports <a href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2026/02/26/five-bids-in-from-potential-padres-buyers/">Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune</a>.</p><p>A sale is expected to be completed in the next few months, perhaps as soon as Opening Day, Acee adds.</p><p>Padres majority owner John Seidler, along with his family, put the team up for sale in November. John's brother, Peter, who died in 2023, bought the team with then-partner Ron Fowler in 2012. A dispute over ownership between members of the Seidler family was settled out of court.</p><p>The Seidlers' asking price for the Padres is apparently close to $3 billion, sources told Lin and Rosenthal. If met, that would shatter the MLB record for a purchase price. Steve Cohen set the current mark when he bought the New York Mets for $2.42 billion in 2020. Forbes <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/justinteitelbaum/2025/03/26/baseballs-most-valuable-teams-2025/">valued</a> the Padres at $1.95 billion last spring, with the club ranking 17th out of 30 teams.</p><p>MLB's collective bargaining agreement expires on Dec. 1, and it's widely expected that the league will lock out its players then.</p>

SAN DIEGO, CA - MARCH 30: Former professional football player Drew Brees waves to the crowd as the San Diego Padres face against the San Francisco Giants on March 30, 2024 at Petco Park in San Diego, California.

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Report: Drew Brees part of group trying to buy Padres

The New York Yankees added some more veteran pop from the right side, agreeing to a minor-league ...

<p>The New York Yankees added some more veteran pop from the right side, agreeing to a minor-league contract with outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2561" href="/mlb/players/2561">Randal Grichuk</a>.</p><p>Grichuk's deal includes an invitation to big-league camp as a non-roster invitee.</p><p>The 34-year-old will get $2.5 million if he makes the team out of camp, reports <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/2027055759897289058?s=20">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Grichuk is coming off a career-worst 2025 campaign, hitting .228/.273/.401 with nine homers and 27 RBIs over 113 games split between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Kansas City Royals. However, Grichuk was still an effective bat against left-handed pitching, posting a .703 OPS with seven homers in 183 plate appearances versus southpaws. He's also just one year removed from posting a .875 OPS with Arizona.</p><p>The 12-year veteran's ability to hit left-handers might come in handy for a Yankees club short on right-handed bats. Just five righty bats are projected to be on New York's Opening Day roster, with two of them - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1851" href="/mlb/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5078" href="/mlb/players/5078">Amed Rosario</a> - expected to be parts of platoons at first and third base, respectively.</p><p>Grichuk could form part of an outfield platoon with the left-handed hitting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8203" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8203">Trent Grisham</a> if he wins a job out of camp. He could start in left field against left-handers, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> moving over to center in place of Grisham.</p><p>Grichuk will likely be competing with versatile switch-hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13635" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13635">Oswaldo Cabrera</a>, young outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15477" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15477">Jasson Domínguez</a>, and prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15572" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15572">Spencer Jones</a> for a spot on New York's roster. Cabrera, Domínguez, and Jones all have minor-league options remaining, potentially giving the veteran a leg up in the competition.</p><p>A native of Rosenberg, Texas, Grichuk is a lifetime .251/.298/.465 hitter with 212 homers and 629 RBIs across 1,360 games for six teams.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JULY 27: Randal Grichuk #15 of the Kansas City Royals bats against the Cleveland Guardians at Kauffman Stadium on July 27, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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CC Sabathia is officially joining the pantheon of New York Yankees legends.  The Yankees announce...

<p>CC Sabathia is officially joining the pantheon of New York Yankees legends.</p><p>The Yankees announced Wednesday that they'll retire the Hall of Fame left-hander's No. 52 jersey in a ceremony before their Sept. 26 game against the Baltimore Orioles. In addition, Sabathia will receive a plaque in Yankee Stadium's Monument Park.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="ca" dir="ltr">9.26.26<a href="https://twitter.com/CC_Sabathia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CC_Sabathia</a>'s No. 52 enters Monument Park. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/legaCCy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#legaCCy</a> <a href="https://t.co/z9b9ln9WeN">pic.twitter.com/z9b9ln9WeN</a></p>— New York Yankees (@Yankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees/status/2026806514283958322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Sabathia's No. 52 will be the 23rd number retired by the Yankees, while he'll become the 25th individual to receive the honor. He'll also be the 37th player to receive a plaque in Monument Park and the first new honoree since his longtime teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Derek Jeter in 2017.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">From the first number that hung in my locker to 52 forever hanging in Monument Park - this HOF journey has come full circle. To have my number retired by the New York Yankees this year is one of the greatest honors of my life. The LegaCCy continues. <a href="https://t.co/EwmLFEMhW4">pic.twitter.com/EwmLFEMhW4</a></p>— CC Sabathia (@CC_Sabathia) <a href="https://twitter.com/CC_Sabathia/status/2026808240122581291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Sabathia joined the Yankees on a seven-year, $161-million contract in free agency before the 2009 season. He immediately led the team to its 27th and most recent World Series title the next fall, winning ALCS MVP honors in the process.</p><p>The California native, who spent 11 of his 19 big-league seasons in pinstripes, ranks in the franchise's top 10 in strikeouts, wins, and starts. Sabathia was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2025, his first year of eligibility, and went in wearing a Yankees cap on his plaque.</p>

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<p>Team USA may not have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a> around for long, but its other ace is all-in for the duration of the World Baseball Classic.</p><p>Pittsburgh Pirates ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> confirmed Tuesday that he's ready and able to make multiple starts for the U.S. during March's tournament. Assuming the Americans advance out of their group, Skenes would have the chance to start two games - one in pool play and one knockout game.</p><p>"We win, we go as far as we should, I'll pitch again in the tournament," the reigning NL Cy Young winner told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7069413/2026/02/24/paul-skenes-world-baseball-classic-pirates/">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When Skenes will make his first start for Team USA hasn't been announced. He'll pitch for the Pirates in a spring game Wednesday before throwing in one of the Americans' two exhibition games in Arizona next week. That schedule appears to line him up for a Pool D start against either Mexico on March 9 or Italy on March 10. His second start could then be in either the semifinal or final, should the U.S. get that far.</p><p>Skenes' commitment comes one day after Skubal, who's won two straight AL Cy Youngs, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3484668" href="https://thescore.com/news/3484668">announced</a> that he'll only start once in the WBC before returning to Detroit Tigers camp. Skubal, a pending free agent who will earn $32 million in 2026 after a record arbitration win, wanted to have the "best of both worlds" by representing his country and preparing for the upcoming season.</p><p>"Look, I'm not in (Skubal's) shoes," said starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10606">Logan Webb</a>, who also confirmed he'll be with Team USA "the whole time," according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7069199/2026/02/24/world-baseball-classic-team-usa-rotation-logan-webb/">The Athletic's Andrew Baggarly</a>. "I've got three years left on my contract. He doesn't. He has one year and then he's got to be a free agent. ... His team and his agents and all of them came up with this plan. It's his life, his career. He can do what he wants."</p><p>Skenes didn't offer an opinion about Skubal, pointing instead to his two years pitching at Air Force as motivation behind his own decision to don the red, white, and blue.</p><p>"That's what we do it for," Skenes told Rosenthal. "This is the greatest country in the world. That's what I believe. That's why I wanted to serve, why I went to the Air Force Academy. And those folks don't get the recognition they deserve."</p><p>He added, "We're doing it to represent the men and women that are fighting for us, along with many other things that make this country the greatest country in the world. That puts it into perspective a little bit."</p><p>Webb seems likely to start Team USA's opener against Brazil on March 6, with Skubal following against Great Britain before Skenes and a fourth starter close pool play. Who will join Skenes, Webb, and Skubal in the rotation remains unclear. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12305" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12305">Joe Ryan</a> was previously considered the most likely choice, but his availability became uncertain after a back issue forced him to miss a Grapefruit League start over the weekend.</p><p>WBC rules limit pitchers to a maximum of 65 pitches in round-robin games, 80 during the quarterfinals, and 95 in the semifinals and final. </p>

BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 10: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates celebrates an out during a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 10, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Each AL team's biggest question during spring training

New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. believes he can be a 10-WAR player in 2026, and...

<p>New York Yankees second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a> believes he can <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3481766" href="https://thescore.com/news/3481766">be a 10-WAR player</a> in 2026, and he's ready to be paid like one.</p><p>The two-time All-Star and pending free agent is already eyeing a massive payday next winter. When asked Friday what it would take for the Yankees to sign him to a long-term contract, Chisholm told <a href="https://www.nj.com/yankees/2026/02/yankees-jazz-chisholm-reveals-free-agent-asking-price-why-hell-be-so-sad-all-year.html">Randy Miller of NJ.com</a> that he wants a lengthy deal averaging $35 million per season.</p><p>"What did I tell you last year? $300 million?" Chisholm said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's probably bigger than that now, probably $35 million."</p><p>Regarding contract length, he added: "I'm 28. I want 8-10 years."</p><p>If Chisholm lands his desired terms, he would become the highest-paid second baseman in MLB history, surpassing Robinson Canó's 10-year, $240-million deal with the Seattle Mariners in 2014.</p><p>Chisholm, who will earn $10.2 million in 2026, will arguably be the best available second baseman next offseason. Other potential competition on the open market could include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10637">Nico Hoerner</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4975" href="/mlb/players/4975">Gleyber Torres</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9653" href="/mlb/players/9653">Brandon Lowe</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4916" href="/mlb/players/4916">Ozzie Albies</a> (if the Atlanta Braves decline his $7-million club option). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, a natural shortstop who played second during the 2025 World Series and is now switching to third base, could also opt out of his deal with the New York Mets.</p><p>Chisholm apparently has no intention of giving his current team a hometown discount. Despite maintaining that he "love(s) being a Yankee," he made it clear that he won't hesitate to go elsewhere if New York offers him less than his preferred number.</p><p>"I'd say no (if the Yankees offered me a $25 million AAV) because I know I can get $35 million somewhere else," Chisholm said. "That's $10 million less a year."</p><p>Still, there's one team he'd seemingly turn down unconditionally. Chisholm said he has no desire to join the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers, who've caused a great deal of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3482533" href="https://thescore.com/news/3482533">controversy</a> with their lavish spending over the last few winters and beat the Yankees in the 2024 World Series.</p><p>"I'd go to the (Los Angeles) Angels before I'd go to the Dodgers," he said. "I'd want to go and win by myself. I'd rather build my roof than go to the Dodgers."</p><p>The Yankees acquired Chisholm from the Miami Marlins in July 2024, and he has helped them reach the playoffs in each of the past two seasons. Last year, he won a Silver Slugger after posting a .813 OPS while recording his first career 30-30 campaign. However, his 12 errors as a second baseman led the majors at the position.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 07: Jazz Chisholm Jr. #13 of the New York Yankees reacts after hitting a solo home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fifth inning in game three of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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Jazz wants $35M AAV over 8-10 years as FA, no discount for Yanks

Anthony Santander shed more light on the shoulder injury that has curtailed his Toronto Blue Jays...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a> shed more light on the shoulder injury that has curtailed his Toronto Blue Jays tenure.</p><p>Upon arrival at spring training last week, manager John Schneider <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3476289" href="https://thescore.com/news/3476289">revealed</a> that Santander needed surgery to repair a torn labrum and would miss at least five-to-six months of action. On Wednesday, the former All-Star outfielder said that the full extent of his injury wasn't known until recently, as the tear didn't show up on any of the imaging taken last summer.</p><p>"It's nobody's fault. It just didn't show up," Santander said via an interpreter, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/2024117623995163021">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>. "When they opened it up, they could see that actually I needed (surgery). They didn't know why the MRI didn't show how bad it was."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Santander, who signed a five-year, $92.5-million deal with the Blue Jays last winter, only played 54 games during his first season with Toronto because of what the team initially called left shoulder inflammation. He spent several months resting and then rehabbing before returning late in 2025. The 31-year-old hit just .175/.271/.294 with six homers during the regular season then went 3-for-15 in five playoff games before being removed from the postseason roster during the ALCS due to a back issue.</p><p>Because he wasn't aware of the torn labrum, Santander followed a similar pattern of resting and rehabbing this winter. He didn't experience any trouble until January, when he started ramping up his swing program and the pain he first felt in May returned, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/2024116099558646252">Davidi</a>.</p><p>Another period of rest followed, only for the pain to come back once he started swinging again. The team then sent him for another MRI, which finally revealed the tear.</p><p>"Unfortunately, things happen that are not in your control," Santander said, according to <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2024117234143019013">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>. "I know some people think differently, but I know who I am. I know I'm trying my best to be on the field with my teammates."</p><p>Santander underwent the procedure last Wednesday. If all goes well with his rehab, the five-to-six month timeline would put him on track to return around the All-Star break at the earliest, although mid-August could be a more realistic target.</p><p>For now, he's going to take things slowly and carefully to rebuild the strength in his shoulder. While he doesn't want to look too far ahead, Santander is hopeful that, at minimum, he can contribute to a contending Blue Jays team late in 2026.</p><p>"We'll see where we're at when we get there," he <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2024117770695155847">said</a>. "If it doesn't work, obviously the other option is to wait until next year, but I hope it doesn't go that way."</p>

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 15: Anthony Santander #25 of the Toronto Blue Jays hits a three run home run against the Atlanta Braves during the fifth inning in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on April 15, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day.

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Santander explains injury: Torn labrum didn't show on MRI in 2025

Injured Colorado Rockies slugger Kris Bryant is still hoping to find a way back to the diamond de...

<p>Injured Colorado Rockies slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4221" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4221">Kris Bryant</a> is still hoping to find a way back to the diamond despite the degenerative back condition that's derailing his career.</p><p>But the former MVP admitted he has no idea if he'll be able to play baseball again.</p><p>"I don't really have the best answer for that, because I haven't really determined a plan, but I just am following their advice and their guidance, and obviously meeting with doctors," Bryant said Tuesday after reporting to spring training, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/kris-bryant-discusses-back-injury-at-rockies-spring-training">Thomas Harding of MLB.com</a>. "I met with doctors in the offseason, just to get opinions. They pass them on to the training staff and then we determine how we go."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A slew of injuries have limited Bryant to 170 games since joining the Rockies on a seven-year, $182-million contract in 2022. But it's lumbar degenerative disc disease, which he was diagnosed with last April, that's affecting his life well beyond baseball.</p><p>Bryant opened up about his experience of the condition, in which damage to discs in the spine causes pain. He described his pain as constant and said it sometimes feels like "being electrocuted" in his entire body, according to <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2026/02/17/rockies-kris-bryant-pain-not-retiring/">Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post</a>.</p><p>"Any time my feet hit the ground, I feel like I could probably fall over," he added.</p><p>The 34-year-old has tried various methods to reduce the pain, ranging from an ablation procedure to Pilates, yet nothing has helped.</p><p>"You have to realize how tough this is for KB," Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer said, per Harding. "There are various opinions out there, but it's really hard for him to not be able to play, to want to play, and to want to be able to feel good. It affects him at home. He wants to be a father with his kids, and he's having a tough time bending over."</p><p>Schaeffer conceded that the Rockies are preparing for life without Bryant in 2026. Bryant wouldn't entertain specific questions about retirement, stating he "doesn't want to go there" right now. All he's doing for the moment is hoping that the right treatment can be found to give him a chance to come back.</p><p>"Obviously, I have to (have hope). Because it's not just something I'm going to deal with now, I'm going to deal with this the rest of my life," he said, according to Saunders. "I've talked to a lot of people about it. I know a ton of people, not just playing baseball, but people who have terrible backs, too.</p><p>"I could never have expected this or seen this coming. And now that I'm dealing with it, I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy. It's miserable."</p>

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 06: Colorado Rockies infielder/outfielder Kris Bryant watches the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado, on Wednesday, August 06, 2025.

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Bryant still hoping to return despite constant pain keeping him off field

Minnesota Twins right-hander Pablo López could be finished playing in 2026 before the season has ...

<p>Minnesota Twins right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9757" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9757">Pablo López</a> could be finished playing in 2026 before the season has even begun.</p><p>López sustained a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow that's likely to require surgery, general manager Jeremy Zoll revealed Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7052711/2026/02/17/twins-pablo-lopez-ucl-tear-surgery/?source=emp_shared_article">Dan Hayes of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>López will seek a second opinion in the coming days, according to Hayes. However, the tear is considered to be significant, meaning season-ending surgery is "very much on the table," Zoll said, per <a href="https://x.com/AaronGleeman/status/2023799809971544108">The Athletic's Aaron Gleeman</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Talk about going from 100 to a zero on the scale of being excited, being pumped, being just ultimately happy to be here and then you get to hear news like that," López said, according to Hayes. "We're all adults. We all know what certain scenarios look like. (I'm) trying to navigate a lot of emotions."</p><p>On Monday, López ended a live bullpen session early after feeling elbow soreness. He underwent an MRI later in the day, which revealed the tear.</p><p>The 29-year-old only made 14 starts in 2025 while battling hamstring, shoulder, and forearm injuries. The Twins placed him on the injured list in late September with a mild right forearm strain, which he sustained while fielding his position. The current issue is unrelated to that injury.</p><p>López, a 2023 All-Star, was expected to again slot in as Minnesota's No. 2 starter behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12305" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12305">Joe Ryan</a>. He's under contract through 2027 and will earn $21.5 million each of the next two seasons.</p><p>His injury also has ramifications for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Venezuela added López to its roster for the tournament earlier in February in hopes of him anchoring his country's staff alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9813" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9813">Ranger Suárez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4216" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4216">Eduardo Rodriguez</a>.</p><p>Although López has previously dealt with shoulder issues, this marks the first major elbow injury of his eight-year career.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 19: Pablo Lopez #49 of the Minnesota Twins walks to the dugout after pitching against the Cleveland Guardians in the second inning of the game at Target Field on September 19, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Twins' López has torn UCL, facing season-ending surgery

One year as a corner outfielder was more than enough for Mike Trout.  The Los Angeles Angels supe...

<p>One year as a corner outfielder was more than enough for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a>.</p><p>The Los Angeles Angels superstar shifted to right field last season in an effort to remain healthy but now says he wants to return to his longtime position in center.</p><p>"I just feel more comfortable out there," Trout said Monday, according to <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2026/02/16/angels-mike-trout-plans-on-moving-back-to-center-field-this-season/">Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register</a>. "I feel like I'm at my best when I'm in center."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Trout fully embraced moving to right field - a position he hadn't played since his rookie year - last spring in hopes it would put less stress on his body following a slew of injury-plagued seasons that sapped his production. He even worked with his former teammate Torii Hunter, who made a similar late-career switch, to try to ease the transition.</p><p>However, the switch didn't work out as planned. Trout played just 22 games in right, all of them in April. He accrued minus-3 defensive runs saved before sustaining a knee injury while running the bases that sent him to the injured list. After getting healthy, he spent the rest of 2025 as a strict DH.</p><p>"Honestly, I felt like when I was in center, it was less on my body," Trout said. "To be honest, right field felt like I was running a lot. It's just a preference thing. Talking to some other outfielders, they feel the same way sometimes, that center is less on your legs. I just feel more confident in center."</p><p>The move is not set in stone just yet, as Trout left the door open to playing a corner spot "if I have to." But new manager Kurt Suzuki already agreed to give the three-time MVP a chance at his old position and will have Trout play all three outfield spots in Cactus League games.</p><p>"It's always nice to have some flexibility, but he does prefer center field and we're going to take a look," Suzuki said. "We've got spring training to see how he feels out there in center, but that's the plan right now."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9561" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9561">Jo Adell</a>, who played 89 games in center last year, had been projected to man the spot again in 2026. Adell can shift back to right - where he's a much better defender - if Trout ends up back in center, while offseason addition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12300" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12300">Josh Lowe</a> can play left field every day. This alignment would also allow <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler</a>, a notoriously poor defender, to DH full time.</p><p>Trout hit 26 homers last season and managed to play in 130 games, the first time he reached that mark since his MVP campaign of 2019. However, the 34-year-old finished 2025 with a career-worst .797 OPS across 556 plate appearances.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MARCH 30: Mike Trout #27 of the Los Angeles Angels plays right field in a game against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field on March 30, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Trout abandoning RF, wants to return to center: It's where 'I'm at my best'

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen, who's become notorious for his free-spending ways in pursuit of ...

<p>New York Mets owner Steve Cohen, who's become notorious for his free-spending ways in pursuit of a title, says he's undecided about whether a salary cap would help baseball.</p><p>"I'm listening to all of the arguments, but I've always been a league-first owner," Cohen told reporters Monday, per <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/steve-cohen-discusses-mets-offseason-of-change-dodgers-goals">SNY's John Flanigan</a>. "I haven't made up my mind yet, but we'll see where it goes - sometimes I put the league's interest above my own interest."</p><p>Owners are expected to push hard for a cap, something that players have long resisted, when the current collective bargaining agreement expires Dec. 1.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Mets' payroll has placed no lower than third in the majors since Cohen took over as majority owner. He's shown no concern for MLB's luxury tax, repeatedly flying past various thresholds and paying millions in penalties to field one of baseball's most expensive teams.</p><p>Despite failing to re-sign stars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a> over the winter, Cohen opened his wallet to improve the team around <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a>. The Mets signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> to a $126-million deal with no deferrals, added relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5394" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5394">Luke Weaver</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, and took on the entirety of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a>'s contract in a trade with the Chicago White Sox.</p><p>With these latest moves, the Mets' Opening Day payroll is projected to be over $368 million, trailing only the Dodgers, per <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/new-york-mets/overview">Spotrac</a>. Those Dodgers lured Díaz away from Flushing and then outbid Cohen to land star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> - not that the billionaire is sweating the competition.</p><p>"They're formidable, they have the ability to spend - so do I, by the way," Cohen said of the two-time defending champions. "They've built a great team, but I think we've built a great team too. I think we're going to be really competitive this year, and the goal is to meet them somewhere along the way."</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 01: New York Mets owner Steve Cohen looks on during batting pratcice prior to a game between the Miami Marlins and the New York Mets at loanDepot park on April 01, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Mets' Cohen: 'Haven't made up my mind' about whether MLB needs cap

Zac Gallen wandered through free agency all winter and then ended up back in the desert.  The vet...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a> wandered through free agency all winter and then ended up back in the desert.</p><p>The veteran right-hander agreed to re-sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks on a one-year contract.</p><p>Gallen's deal will pay him $22.025 million, matching the value of the qualifying offer he rejected in November, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2022495664102609175?s=20">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>. More than half the money - approximately $14 million - will be deferred, <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2022498080461922613">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Net present value of Gallen’s deal will be lower than that of the qualifying offer, which did not include deferrals. But he can re-enter the market next offseason without a QO attached, enabling a team to sign him without losing one or more draft picks.</p>— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2022498845989728357?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Rejecting the D-Backs' qualifying offer left the 30-year-old attached to draft-pick compensation had he signed with another team. It's unclear how that may have affected his market. Gallen had multi-year offers on the table but eschewed them in favor of a return to Arizona, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2022498770445857265">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>"I think people understand what Phoenix means to me. My wife is from here. I'm calling this home base now. So, for us to be here would be awesome," he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3471495" href="https://thescore.com/news/3471495">said</a> earlier this month about a potential return to Arizona.</p><p>The Baltimore Orioles and Chicago Cubs were connected to Gallen in recent weeks. Baltimore ended up signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a> to a one-year deal that was made official Friday. </p><p>The upcoming season will mark Gallen's eighth year with the D-Backs, who acquired him from Miami during his 2019 rookie campaign. He's developed into a rock for the Snakes, emerging as an NL Cy Young finalist at the top of their NL pennant-winning rotation in 2023.</p><p>However, Gallen hit free agency after a down year in 2025 that saw him post a career-worst 4.83 ERA, 4.50 FIP, 1.26 WHIP, and 8.2 K/9 rate. Despite the statistical downturn, he did remain durable, making 33 starts and throwing over 180 innings for the third time in his career.</p><p>He's the second longtime D-Backs starter to re-sign with the team this winter, after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4059" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4059">Merrill Kelly</a> - who was traded to Texas in July - returned on a two-year deal in December. Arizona also signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8133" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8133">Michael Soroka</a> to a one-year contract earlier in the offseason.</p><p>Gallen, an All-Star in 2023, owns a lifetime 3.58 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with 1,060 strikeouts across 176 career starts.</p>

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - JULY 12: Zac Gallen #23 of the Arizona Diamondbacks throws against Los Angeles Angels during the third inning of a baseball game at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on July 12, 2025 in Anaheim, California.

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D-Backs, Gallen reunite on 1-year, $22.025M deal

One of the biggest storylines of the 2026 Major League Baseball season will be the implementation...

<p>One of the biggest storylines of the 2026 Major League Baseball season will be the implementation of the Automatic Ball/Strike System, allowing players to challenge umpires' ball and strike calls on the fly. Just don't expect to see Atlanta Braves ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1577" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1577">Chris Sale</a> tapping his head any time soon.</p><p>"I will never challenge a pitch. I will never do it. I won't do it," Sale said Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/Justin_FOX5/status/2022399699144307144">Justin Felder of Fox 5 Sports</a>. When asked why, Sale replied:<strong> </strong>"Because I'm not an umpire. That's their job. I'm a starting pitcher - I've never called balls and strikes in my life."</p><p>Sale, a three-time strikeout champion, isn't against the ABS system entirely. But he feels that catchers, who are now more adept at framing pitches than ever before, may be better equipped to make those kinds of judgment calls. The 36-year-old, who once <a href="https://www.espn.com/video/clip/_/id/20213442">famously said</a> that he'd never shaken off a catcher, has total trust that his backstops will know when and how to use the system to his team's advantage.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Catchers nowadays, the way they catch the ball, the way they receive, they make them all look like strikes," Sale said. "And again, I'm a starting pitcher and I'm greedy. I like pitches that are on the corner that might be a little off. In the heat of the moment, especially (when) you throw a good pitch, you got Murph (Braves catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8467" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8467">Sean Murphy</a>) or Baldy (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15587" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15587">Drake Baldwin</a>) or whoever back there and they kind of catch it the right way. They make a lot of balls look like strikes, and I don't want to take away one of those challenges that might be needed later on in the game."</p><p>Sale added that he's "fine to kind of keep dealing with" the human element of umpires occasionally missing calls.</p><p>The ABS system has been used in the minors for several seasons and was tested with big-leaguers in spring training last year. Teams will be given two challenges per game, but only pitchers, catchers, or batters can request a challenge, and they must do so within two seconds of the pitch being thrown. If a player challenges by tapping his head, a graphic will quickly be shown to indicate whether or not he was successful, and then the game will continue.</p><p>All teams will get one additional challenge in extra innings, even if they enter the 10th inning having used them up earlier in the game.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 18: Chris Sale #51 of the Atlanta Braves reacts during the ninth inning against the New York Mets at Truist Park on June 18, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Braves' Sale says he'll never use ABS system: 'I'm not an umpire'

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Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

News Editor

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