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

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.But the former MVP admitted he has no idea if he'll be able to play baseball again."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."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>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.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>."Any time my feet hit the ground, I feel like I could probably fall over," he added.The 34-year-old has tried various methods to reduce the pain, ranging from an ablation procedure to Pilates, yet nothing has helped."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."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."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."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."

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 ...

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.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>.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>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"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."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.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.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.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>.Although López has previously dealt with shoulder issues, this marks the first major elbow injury of his eight-year career.

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...

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>.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."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."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>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.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."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."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."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."<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.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.

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 ...

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."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."Owners are expected to push hard for a cap, something that players have long resisted, when the current collective bargaining agreement expires Dec. 1.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>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.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.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."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."

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...

<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.The veteran right-hander agreed to re-sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks on a one-year contract.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>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
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.— 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>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>."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.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. 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.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.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.Gallen, an All-Star in 2023, owns a lifetime 3.58 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with 1,060 strikeouts across 176 career starts.

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...

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."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: "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."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.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"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."Sale added that he's "fine to kind of keep dealing with" the human element of umpires occasionally missing calls.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.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.

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'

The Milwaukee Brewers bolstered their infield Friday by signing veteran Luis Rengifo to a one-yea...

The Milwaukee Brewers bolstered their infield Friday by signing veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8736" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8736">Luis Rengifo</a> to a one-year contract, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2022426947406696729">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>.Rengifo will earn a base salary of $3.5 million in 2026, <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2022431756188815857">Feinsand</a> reports, citing a source. The deal also includes up to $1.5 million in performance incentives and a $10-million mutual option for 2027.The 28-year-old immediately becomes a candidate to start at third base every day for Milwaukee, which recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3475378" href="https://thescore.com/news/3475378">traded</a> 2025 NL Rookie of the Year finalist <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14512" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14512">Caleb Durbin</a> to Boston in a multi-player deal. Rengifo split time between second and third almost evenly with the Los Angeles Angels last season, tallying minus-5 defensive runs saved and minus-7 outs above average across 567 2/3 innings at the hot corner.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>His defensive versatility could also allow Brewers manager Pat Murphy to mix and match lineups throughout the year. Rengifo's primarily played second base in the majors but has also started games at third, shortstop, and all three outfield spots. He joins a Brewers infield corps that also includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10687" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10687">Brice Turang</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13828" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13828">Joey Ortiz</a>, non-roster invitee <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13678" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13678">Eddys Leonard</a>, and newcomer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13720" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13720">David Hamilton</a>, who was acquired in the Durbin trade. Rengifo's a lifetime .250/.307/.382 hitter with 62 homers, 230 RBIs, and 52 stolen bases across parts of seven big-league seasons, all with the Angels. His best offensive campaign came in 2022, when he put up a .724 OPS with a personal-best 17 home runs in 511 plate appearances.The Venezuela native is looking to rebound at the plate in 2026 after hitting a career-low .238/.287/.335 with the Halos last summer.

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 24: Luis Rengifo #2 of the Los Angeles Angels throws to first base during the fourth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on September 24, 2025 in Anaheim, California.

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Report: Brewers add veteran Rengifo on 1-year, $3.5M deal

The Baltimore Orioles added some veteran starting pitching at the expense of their AL East rivals...

The Baltimore Orioles added some veteran starting pitching at the expense of their AL East rivals.Baltimore agreed to a one-year, $18.5-million contract with right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2021758766266626237">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>. The deal, which is pending a physical, also includes a $3-million signing bonus and $500K worth of incentives if he makes at least 27 starts, <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2021758883379700016">Passan</a> adds."Just having that veteran presence is not just good for the pitching staff but good for the whole clubhouse," new first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a> said Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/afkostka/status/2021960316243132900?s=20">Andy Kostka of The Baltimore Banner</a>. "He brings energy every day. He's a bulldog out there, and I think he's going to be a huge addition for us."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bassitt, who will turn 37 on Feb. 22, spent the last three seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays. Last year, he put up a 3.96 ERA, 4.01 FIP, and 1.33 WHIP along with 166 strikeouts over 32 regular-season appearances (31 starts). He then moved to the bullpen during the playoffs, allowing just one earned run in 8 2/3 innings as a high-leverage reliever during Toronto's AL pennant run.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Toronto and all of Canada… I’m beyond grateful that my family and I chose to come 3 years ago. From having our youngest son there to getting to a World Series and everything in between. It was filled with love and friendships that my family will cherish for the rest of our… <a href="https://t.co/i4t7xKcpoK">pic.twitter.com/i4t7xKcpoK</a>— Chris Bassitt (@C_Bass419) <a href="https://twitter.com/C_Bass419/status/2021953628731265217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>He gives the Orioles additional experience and depth at the back of their rotation. Bassitt should slot into the No. 5 spot behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9579" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9579">Trevor Rogers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12260" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12260">Kyle Bradish</a>, fellow newcomer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12302" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12302">Shane Baz</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5202">Zach Eflin</a>, who re-signed in December. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8585">Dean Kremer</a>, a mainstay of the team's rotation over the last few years, can now shift into more of a swingman role; he has one minor-league option remaining.He's the latest new addition to a Baltimore club that finished last in the ultracompetitive AL East in 2025. This offseason, the O's have traded for Baz, outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5431" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5431">Taylor Ward</a>, reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5892" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5892">Andrew Kittredge</a>, and infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13884" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13884">Blaze Alexander</a>. They've signed Alonso, who's a five-time All-Star, and closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a> as well.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
With their signing Chris Bassitt of $18.5 million, the Orioles have set a new franchise record for their opening day payroll. They now sit at $166 million, per Roster Resource. That just clears their 2025 ($164.6 million) and 2017 ($164.3 million) payrolls for the No. 1 spot.— Matt Weyrich (@ByMattWeyrich) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByMattWeyrich/status/2021763069127610657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Bassitt has been one of the most durable starters in baseball this decade, making at least 27 starts and throwing 150-plus innings in each of the past five seasons. He ranks eighth in innings pitched and seventh in games started among qualified pitchers.The Ohio native owns a lifetime 3.64 ERA, 3.95 FIP, and 1.25 WHIP with 1,191 strikeouts across 232 big-league appearances with the Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, and New York Mets. Bassitt was an All-Star with the A's in 2021. He led the AL in wins (16) and starts (33) in 2023 and has earned downballot Cy Young votes in three of his 11 big-league seasons.Baltimore is looking to shake off a disappointing 87-loss season and return to the playoffs for the third time in four seasons under rookie skipper Craig Albernaz. The Orioles won the AL East in 2023 and hosted a wild-card series in 2024, but they haven't won a playoff series in 12 years and last hoisted the World Series trophy in 1983.

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 20: Chris Bassitt #40 of the Toronto Blue Jays reacts after pitching in the eighth inning during Game Seven of the American League Championship Series presented by loanDepot between the Seattle Mariners and the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on Monday, October 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Orioles land Bassitt on reported 1-year, $18.5M deal

The Colorado Rockies added another veteran pitcher to their staff, signing left-hander Jose Quint...

The Colorado Rockies added another veteran pitcher to their staff, signing left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3165" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/3165">Jose Quintana</a> to a one-year contract, the team announced Thursday.Quintana's deal is for $6 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2021451373607518481">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>.Quintana, 37, is the third veteran arm to join Colorado's 2026 rotation. The Rockies signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4295" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4295">Michael Lorenzen</a> to a one-year contract in January and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18723" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18723">Tomoyuki Sugano</a> to a one-year, $5.1-million <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3476190" href="https://thescore.com/news/3476190">deal</a> earlier Tuesday. The three newcomers will join longtime Rockie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4762" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4762">Kyle Freeland</a> and former top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18867" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18867">Chase Dollander</a> in the rotation.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Quintana spent 2025 with the Milwaukee Brewers, who he helped win an MLB-best 97 games. The left-hander posted a 3.96 ERA, 4.81 FIP, and 1.29 WHIP with 89 strikeouts over 24 starts for Milwaukee.The Colombian native is regarded as a consistent innings-eater, having made 30-plus starts in nine of his 14 big-league seasons.Quintana owns a lifetime 113-110 record with a 3.76 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 1,816 strikeouts across 383 big-league outings with eight teams. He was an All-Star in 2016 with the Chicago White Sox.Colorado's rotation posted a collective 6.65 ERA in 2025 - the highest by any team in a single season since 1893, when the mound was moved to its current distance of 60 feet, 6 inches.

MILWAUKEE, WI - SEPTEMBER 14: Jose Quintana #62 of the Milwaukee Brewers pitches during the game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on Sunday, September 14, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Rockies, Quintana agree to 1-year deal reportedly worth $6M

The Toronto Blue Jays will begin their defense of the American League championship without some i...

The Toronto Blue Jays will begin their defense of the American League championship without some important pieces.Manager John Schneider <a href="https://x.com/MitchBannon/status/2021344727438852250">announced</a> Tuesday that outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a> needs left labral surgery and will miss five-to-six months. The procedure is scheduled for Wednesday.Schneider also revealed that former Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a> is dealing with forearm fatigue and won't be ready for Opening Day. Additionally, right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12435" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12435">Bowden Francis</a> is scheduled to undergo surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament and will miss the entire 2026 season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Santander, who battled shoulder injuries last campaign, apparently suffered a setback last month."He was resting and rehabbing in November and December, then he kind of had a setback when he started ramping up with his hitting earlier in January," Schneider said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/anthony-santander-left-shoulder-surgery">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>."He came over to the complex, got checked out, and did everything we could to avoid this. At this point, after what we dealt with last year and in talking with Tony, this is the best possible way to get him back to 100%. This is unfortunate timing, obviously."Santander joined the Blue Jays last winter on a five-year, $92.5-million deal, but his shoulder issues limited him to 54 regular-season games in 2025. The 31-year-old returned for the playoffs but was removed from the postseason roster during the ALCS after sustaining a back injury.Before this latest issue, Santander was projected to be the Blue Jays' primary left fielder this year. With his extended absence, Nathan Lukes and Davis Schneider will have opportunities to platoon in left, while Addison Barger is set to play every day in right. The team still plans for George Springer to be the primary designated hitter, with occasional starts in right field when needed, Schneider <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/2021347590529483129">said</a>.Meanwhile, offseason addition Kazuma Okamoto will now be Toronto's primary third baseman for at least the start of 2026. Known for his versatility, Okamoto was expected to get starts at third, first, and in the corner outfield before Tuesday's developments.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Blue Jays are “not significantly” involved in the OF market after the Anthony Santander injury per GM Ross Atkins. Atkins says Jays are always looking for pitching.— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) <a href="https://twitter.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/2021352076706771118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Bieber has been able to play catch and was described by Schneider as feeling good overall, according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/2021347016371208300">Nicholson-Smith</a>. However, the skipper <a href="https://x.com/ArdenZwelling/status/2021348257071570962">noted</a> that an offseason MRI revealed enough extra forearm fatigue to delay his ramp-up until early in the regular season.The 30-year-old right-hander underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2024. Toronto acquired Bieber from Cleveland at last year's trade deadline while he was still on a rehab assignment. He ended up making seven regular-season starts down the stretch of 2025, plus another five appearances (four starts) in the playoffs.Bieber surprised many around baseball when he exercised his $16-million player option to return to Toronto early in the offseason.With Bieber out for at least the start of 2026, Schneider <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/2021349258046345242">said</a> Eric Lauer will be stretched out as a starter. The left-hander was a key arm for the team in 2025, pitching in multiple roles and making 15 starts.Lauer joins a potential rotation that includes Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease, Trey Yesavage, Cody Ponce, and José Berríos, who missed the team's playoff run due to injury.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Schneider: Jose Berrios is a starting pitcher for us. For the Blue Jays, it makes sense to head into the season with him fully stretched out - especially with the Bieber and Francis news.— Brandon Wile (@Brandon_N_Wile) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brandon_N_Wile/status/2021347207702859909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Francis, 29, put up a 6.05 ERA over 14 starts last year before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury in June. He was projected to serve as rotation depth in 2026.

SEATTLE, WA - OCTOBER 15: Anthony Santander #25 of the Toronto Blue Jays runs home to score in the fifth inning during Game Three of the American League Championship Series presented by loanDepot between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Blue Jays' Santander needs labrum surgery, out 5-6 months

The Detroit Tigers signed right-hander Justin Verlander to a one-year contract Tuesday, setting h...

The Detroit Tigers signed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/195">Justin Verlander</a> to a one-year contract Tuesday, setting him up to play a 21st season.The deal is worth $13 million, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2021292761740345480?s=20">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>, who adds that it includes $11 million in deferrals.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Back where it all started <a href="https://t.co/zQfMJeKtg9">pic.twitter.com/zQfMJeKtg9</a>— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinVerlander/status/2021381346766319980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Verlander spent the first 13 years of his career with the Tigers, winning an AL MVP (2011), AL Cy Young (2011), and AL Rookie of the Year (2006) to go along with six All-Star nods.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 42-year-old future Hall of Famer is a three-time Cy Young winner, two-time World Series champion, and member of the vaunted 3,000-strikeout club who's suited up for the Tigers, Houston Astros, New York Mets, and San Francisco Giants.Verlander posted a 3.85 ERA with 3.85 FIP and 8.1 K/9 over 152 innings (29 starts) for the Giants in 2025.Detroit's rotation appeared full after the signing of Framber Valdez. However, a spot for Verlander opened up Tuesday when the team announced that right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15420">Reese Olson</a> will miss the season following surgery to repair a torn labrum. Olson, who was placed on the 60-day injured list to free up a 40-man roster spot, underwent the procedure last week.This marks the latest setback for the 26-year-old Olson, who had his breakout 2025 campaign halted by a shoulder strain in mid-July. He also dealt with a shoulder problem in 2024.With Olson out, Detroit's rotation now projects to feature Verlander and Valdez alongside two-time reigning AL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>, plus right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5646">Jack Flaherty</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10561" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10561">Casey Mize</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tarik Skubal &amp; Justin Verlander for DET will be the 11th duo of *multi-time* Cy Young winners to pitch for the same team in the same year **having already won 2+ CYA entering that season** they’ll join ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/6oyKWRjiLV">https://t.co/6oyKWRjiLV</a>— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/SlangsOnSports/status/2021320496214622416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Tigers also added outfield depth Tuesday by agreeing to a minor-league deal with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5662" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5662">Austin Slater</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/CodyStavenhagen/status/2021308528703549866?s=20">Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic</a>.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 27: Justin Verlander #35 of the San Francisco Giants pitches at Oracle Park on September 27, 2025 in San Francisco, California.

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Verlander returns to Tigers on 1-year deal reportedly worth $13M

Former big-league outfielder Terrance Gore, whose blazing speed made him a key bench player and p...

Former big-league outfielder Terrance Gore, whose blazing speed made him a key bench player and pinch-running specialist for three World Series-winning clubs, died Friday at age 34.Gore died following complications from a routine surgery, according to a <a href="https://x.com/BPerryKC/status/2020169810081116572">social media post</a> from his wife, Britney.Gore became a fan favorite at each of his big-league stops, thanks to his unique skill set and infectious personality. While never a strong hitter, he played a vital role on multiple playoff teams as a pinch-runner who could change the game solely with his legs.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He's perhaps most famous for his contributions to the Kansas City Royals during their 2014 and 2015 postseason runs. He stole five bases in his first taste of the majors late in the 2014 campaign then swiped another three and scored two runs in the playoffs to help Kansas City win a pennant. The following year, Gore again served in that role for the 2015 Royals, who won the World Series."Terrance was an unforgettable part of our organization with a unique talent that catapulted him to some of the biggest moments in Royals history," president of baseball operations JJ Picollo said in a statement to <a href="https://x.com/jacksonKMBC9/status/2020272152105410961">KMBC's Jackson Kurtz</a>. "While his speed and athleticism were what most people immediately noticed, those of us who had the opportunity to know him also remember his energy, his humility, and the impact he made in big moments on the game's biggest stage."Gore appeared as a pinch-runner for four teams during five different postseasons, stealing five bases and scoring three runs while earning rings with the Royals in 2015, Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020 (although he wasn't on their playoff roster), and Atlanta Braves in 2021. He also stole 43 bases over 112 regular-season games during his career, the majority of which came while he was a pinch-runner.He recorded just 85 plate appearances in the majors over eight years. It took until his 16th big-league plate appearance, almost four years after his debut, for Gore to finally notch his first big-league hit - a single off future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A316nboLSpc?si=77Jw1aV8lWd3aeAU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>Many of Gore's former teammates and clubs as well as media members shared their grief on social media after learning of his death.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
💔 <a href="https://t.co/Eqo5W8qlBz">pic.twitter.com/Eqo5W8qlBz</a>— Eric Hosmer (@TheRealHos305) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealHos305/status/2020186139274145823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
So devastated to hear about the passing of Terrance Gore. I will forever remember his kindness and smile as much as his game-changing speed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForeverRoyal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForeverRoyal</a> <a href="https://t.co/iIfxcXEZQf">pic.twitter.com/iIfxcXEZQf</a>— Joel Goldberg (@goldbergkc) <a href="https://twitter.com/goldbergkc/status/2020187146523668598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rest in peace, Terrance ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/DEcWk3lapS">pic.twitter.com/DEcWk3lapS</a>— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Braves/status/2020193012513726555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We are absolutely devastated to confirm the passing of longtime client and friend Terrance Gore. Terrance was a 3x World Series champion, amazing father, friend and lit up every room he walked into. Please keep Terrance‘s family in your prayers during this time. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamWSM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamWSM</a> <a href="https://t.co/VKUNEYM7nw">pic.twitter.com/VKUNEYM7nw</a>— Warner Sports Management (@WSM_Baseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/WSM_Baseball/status/2020197958684454985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
G Baby, you were a real one. I was lucky to call you a teammate and friend at two different stops in our journeys. I am grateful for all of the laughs and the memories we shared on and off the field. Rest in peace brother. <a href="https://t.co/XBkDtBgRo8">pic.twitter.com/XBkDtBgRo8</a>— Travis Snider (@Lunchboxhero45) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lunchboxhero45/status/2020252056548962791?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We join the Gore family and the world of baseball in mourning the passing of Terrance Gore. Known for his great speed but even more so for his kindness and joyful smile, Terrance will be remembered as a tremendous teammate and a dedicated family man. <a href="https://t.co/xEvMjHdITF">pic.twitter.com/xEvMjHdITF</a>— Omaha Storm Chasers (@OMAStormChasers) <a href="https://twitter.com/OMAStormChasers/status/2020172269704671411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Gore finished his big-league career with 16 hits in 74 regular-season at-bats and slashed .237/.334/.274 with 324 steals and one home run over 11 minor-league seasons.He is survived by his wife and three children.

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 14: Terrance Gore #0 of the Kansas City Royals looks on during batting practice prior to Game Three of the American League Championship Series against the Baltimore Orioles at Kauffman Stadium on October 14, 2014 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Terrance Gore, speedster who won 3 World Series, dies at 34

The New York Yankees are bringing back yet another member of their 2025 squad.  New York has agre...

The New York Yankees are bringing back yet another member of their 2025 squad.New York has agreed to a one-year contract with veteran first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1851" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2019922550810165459">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>. The deal is valued at $4 million with an additional $2 million in potential bonuses, according to the <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2020129568225398958?s=20">New York Post's Jon Heyman</a>.The 38-year-old turned down more lucrative offers elsewhere in order to return to the Yankees, according to <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/2019923549033796017">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>. Full financial terms of the agreement are not yet known.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Goldschmidt hit .274/.328/.403 with 10 home runs in 146 games with the Yankees last season. He did the majority of his damage against left-handed pitching, posting a .981 OPS with seven homers in 168 plate appearances. Conversely, he produced a .619 OPS with three round-trippers over 366 PAs against righties.The former NL MVP could once again be the right-handed half of a first-base platoon with the left-handed hitting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16165">Ben Rice</a> in 2026. Goldschmidt, a four-time Gold Glove winner, can also serve as a defensive replacement when Rice starts at first.Goldschmidt also adds a bit more balance to a Yankees position-player group that's overwhelmingly left-handed. Seven of the Yankees' 13 position players on their projected Opening Day roster hit from the left side.Goldschmidt is about to enter the 16th season of an outstanding career. A seven-time All-Star, he's a lifetime .288/.378/.504 hitter with 372 homers, 1,232 RBIs, and 174 stolen bases across 2,074 games with the Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks, and St. Louis Cardinals.He's the latest member of the 2025 Yankees to return to the club for another year. New York's only handed out three big-league contracts this winter, to re-sign Goldschmidt, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5078" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5078">Amed Rosario</a>. The team's biggest addition was left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12507" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12507">Ryan Weathers</a>, who was acquired from the Miami Marlins in a multi-player trade.The Yankees won 94 games last year but finished second in the AL East after losing the tiebreaker to the Toronto Blue Jays. Toronto then eliminated New York in the ALDS.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 19: Paul Goldschmidt #48 of the New York Yankees celebrates his second inning home run against the Los Angeles Angels with his teammates in the dugout at Yankee Stadium on June 19, 2025 in New York City.

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Report: Goldschmidt returning to Yankees on 1-year deal

Detroit Tigers infielder Javier Báez is ineligible to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic whi...

Detroit Tigers infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3569">Javier Báez</a> is ineligible to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic while he serves a two-year suspension due to marijuana use, his agent confirmed to <a href="https://x.com/cmccosky/status/2019586756363055175">Chris McCosky of the Detroit News</a>.Báez, a staple of Puerto Rico's national team, had been slated to represent his country in the WBC for a third time.The World Baseball Softball Confederation handed Báez a two-year suspension from international events after he tested positive for marijuana during the 2023 WBC, a source told <a href="https://www.freep.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/02/05/javier-baez-suspended-2026-world-baseball-classic-marijuana/88536705007/">Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press</a>. His ban reportedly expires on April 26 of this year, one month after the WBC ends.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Báez won't face any discipline from Major League Baseball or the Tigers, as the league allows players to use marijuana recreationally. However, marijuana remains classified as a banned substance by the WBSC, meaning players participating in events sanctioned by international baseball's governing body can't use the drug until after the tournament concludes.MLB and the players' union sought to clear Báez for the upcoming tournament but ultimately couldn't work around the WBSC's drug policy, per Petzold.Báez helped Puerto Rico reach the 2017 WBC final with an electric performance that included a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVI_-JWoqVg">no-look tag</a> at second base. He went 7-for-19 with one homer and six RBIs during the 2023 tournament.The 33-year-old hit .257/.282/.398 with 12 homers and 57 RBIs in 126 games for the Tigers last season.

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 17: Javier Báez #9 of Team Puerto Rico reacts after hitting a single in the eighth inning during the 2023 World Baseball Classic Quarterfinal game between Team Puerto Rico and Team Mexico at loanDepot Park on Friday, March 17, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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Báez suspended from WBC for positive marijuana test in 2023

The Brooklyn Nets are waiving guard Cam Thomas, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.  If he clears...

The Brooklyn Nets are waiving guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2019502974301581640">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.If he clears waivers, Thomas will be free to sign with another team for the stretch run. The 24-year-old is earning around $6 million this year and will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer."Super excited, ready to actually help and contribute to another team," Thomas told <a href="https://x.com/MarcJSpears/status/2019504392781926899">Andscape's Marc J. Spears</a>. "My next team is getting elite scoring, good playmaking, and a good combo guard."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Thomas played in 24 games for the Nets this season and made eight starts. He's been productive when on the floor, averaging 15.6 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.Brooklyn originally selected Thomas 27th overall out of LSU in 2021.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 01: Cam Thomas #24 of the Brooklyn Nets looks to pass the ball during the third quarter of a game against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on February 01, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Report: Nets waiving Cam Thomas

The New York Knicks acquired point guard Jose Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange ...

The New York Knicks acquired point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96124" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96124">Jose Alvarado</a> from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102749" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102749">Dalen Terry</a>, two second-round picks, and cash.The trade is a homecoming for Alvarado, a Brooklyn native who attended Christ the King Regional High School in Queens.Originally signed by the Pelicans as an undrafted free agent in 2021, Alvarado developed into a fan favorite and key bench weapon for New Orleans. He's averaging 7.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists with a 41.8% field-goal percentage and 36.3% 3-point percentage across 41 games this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 27-year-old is earning $4.5 million this season and owns a $4.5-million player option for 2026-27.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jose Alvarado picking up his player option would give the Knicks significant flexibility below the second apron next season. It would help them maximize their depth under the second apron hard cap they'd be subjected to if they can acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo in the offseason. <a href="https://t.co/hJU6AqZNke">https://t.co/hJU6AqZNke</a>— Yossi Gozlan (@YossiGozlan) <a href="https://twitter.com/YossiGozlan/status/2019466094830883174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Alvarado boosts the Knicks' guard depth for the stretch run behind starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a>. He'll also help cover for the loss of shooting guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96035" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96035">Miles McBride</a>, who may miss the rest of the regular season after sustaining a sports hernia, sources told <a href="https://x.com/FredKatz/status/2019469955025064325">The Athletic's Fred Katz and James L. Edwards III</a>. McBride will reportedly undergo core surgery Friday to repair the hernia.Terry was flipped to New Orleans less than 24 hours after the Knicks acquired him from the Chicago Bulls for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/162929" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/162929">Guerschon Yabusele</a>.The Bulls drafted Terry 18th overall in 2022. Over his four NBA seasons, he's averaged 3.5 points, 1.7 boards, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 44.4% from the field and 31.9% from behind the arc as a bench piece. This year, he's shooting 44.1% overall and 41.3% from 3-point range while averaging 3.5 points per game in 34 appearances with the Bulls.The 23-year-old is in the final season of his rookie deal and will become a restricted free agent this summer.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 31: Jose Alvarado #15 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 31, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Pelicans trade Alvarado to Knicks

The Boston Red Sox added some infield depth, agreeing to a one-year contract with veteran utility...

The Boston Red Sox added some infield depth, agreeing to a one-year contract with veteran utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4693" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4693">Isiah Kiner-Falefa</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2019198987723546645">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.The deal is worth $6 million, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/2019236492259061846?s=20">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>, who <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/2019249015108563310?s=20">adds</a> the pact also has $500,000 in incentives.Kiner-Falefa split his 2025 between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Toronto Blue Jays. He started the year as Pittsburgh's primary shortstop until being claimed off waivers by Toronto - who'd traded him to the Pirates one year earlier - in late August. He helped replace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> in September and the first two rounds of the playoffs after the then-Blue Jays star suffered a knee injury that kept him out until the World Series.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 30-year-old hit a combined .262/.297/.334 with two homers, 40 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases across 138 total games between the Pirates and Blue Jays in 2025. Kiner-Falefa was on the Blue Jays' postseason roster for all three rounds and started two World Series games at second base. He appeared to have scored the title-winning run in the ninth inning of Game 7 but was ruled out after a replay review.Kiner-Falefa adds some versatility to Boston's bench. He has plenty of experience at third, shortstop, and second base and can slot into the outfield if required. He also often acts as an emergency catcher, having made 73 appearances behind the plate during his eight-year career. Kiner-Falefa can spell any of Boston's regular infielders while allowing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13720" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13720">David Hamilton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13718" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13718">Nick Sogard</a>, who both have options remaining, to get playing time in Triple-A.Defensively, Kiner provides a steady hand at all three infield positions. A former Gold Glove winner at third base, he's collected 32 career defensive runs saved in over 3,800 innings at shortstop, 29 DRS across 1,818 innings at the hot corner, and 12 in 573 2/3 frames at second.As a hitter, the Hawaii native owns a lifetime .262/.311/.349 slash line with 36 homers and 286 RBIs across 918 big-league games with the Blue Jays, Pirates, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. Kiner-Falefa's career wRC+ of 82 is the lowest among all hitters with at least 3,000 plate appearances since 2018.

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 31: Isiah Kiner-Falefa #7 of the Toronto Blue Jays fields a ball during warm ups prior to Game Six of the 2025 World Series presented by Capital One between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on Friday, October 31, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Red Sox, Kiner-Falefa agree to 1-year, $6M deal

The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after the superstar was diagnos...

The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> after the superstar was diagnosed with an abdominal strain, the team announced Wednesday.He'll be re-evaluated after the All-Star break.Gilgeous-Alexander sustained the injury during Tuesday's 128-92 win over the Orlando Magic. He only played 27 minutes in the game and exited for good with two minutes remaining in the third quarter when the Thunder were already ahead by 29 points.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The strain interrupts another stellar season for the 27-year-old, who has a good chance of defending his NBA MVP. Gilgeous-Alexander's averaging 31.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while posting a 55.4% field-goal percentage and shooting 39% from behind the arc.He's also scored at least 20 points in 121 consecutive games, leaving him five shy of tying Wilt Chamberlain's NBA record. Gilgeous-Alexander extended the streak by scoring 23 against Orlando before the injury.The Canadian will have to be replaced on Team World at this month's All-Star Game, where he'd been voted in as a starter.

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JANUARY 23: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers on January 23, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

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Shai out through All-Star break with abdominal strain

The free-agent market for Framber Valdez, arguably the best starter left in free agency, seems to...

The free-agent market for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a>, arguably the best starter left in free agency, seems to be picking up steam with spring training approaching.The Pittsburgh Pirates - already flush with starting pitching - are aggressively pursuing Valdez, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7021444/2026/02/04/framber-valdez-free-agency-pirates/">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.Pittsburgh turned its eyes toward the left-hander after failing to find additional offensive upgrades. The Bucs previously signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5605">Ryan O'Hearn</a> and traded for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9653" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9653">Brandon Lowe</a> and were apparently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3469586" href="https://thescore.com/news/3469586">among the finalists</a> for slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a> before he joined the division-rival Cincinnati Reds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Valdez would boost an already excellent Pirates rotation into one of baseball's best. He'd join superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> as one half of a formidable duo atop the group, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236">Mitch Keller</a> and top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17585">Bubba Chandler</a> slotting in behind them. The 32-year-old would bring big-game experience to a young staff, having made 16 career playoff starts while helping pitch the Houston Astros to a World Series title in 2022.Signing in Pittsburgh would also reunite Valdez with longtime Astros pitching coach Bill Murphy, who left Houston for the same job with the Pirates earlier this winter.Other teams showing interest in the 32-year-old Valdez include the Toronto Blue Jays, <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2018869240418410644?s=20">Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a> reported Tuesday.Toronto's front office reportedly met with Valdez's camp at the GM meetings in mid-November before the team signed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a>. However, Valdez's current fit with the Blue Jays isn't clear after the club added Cease and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> to a rotation that already includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>.Ultimately, the Blue Jays' current interest in Valdez may only spike if his price tag falls to their preferred level, Rosenthal reports. It's unclear what Toronto's preferred range may be.The Baltimore Orioles and New York Mets have also been linked to the two-time All-Star this winter. The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres continue to pursue rotation upgrades, according to Rosenthal, although the extent of their interest in Valdez - if it exists - is not clear.The Orioles could use another frontline starter despite trading for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12302" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12302">Shane Baz</a> and re-signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5202">Zach Eflin</a>. Meanwhile, the Mets look set for starting pitching after acquiring ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a> to lead a group that includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9583" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9583">David Peterson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8239">Clay Holmes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4239">Sean Manaea</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15438" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15438">Kodai Senga</a>.Valdez owns a career 3.36 ERA with a 1.20 WHIP and 8.8 K/9 across eight years with the Astros.

DETROIT, MI - AUGUST 20: Pitcher Framber Valdez #59 of the Houston Astros throws to first base against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning at Comerica Park on August 20, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Report: Pirates pushing hard for Valdez, join Jays among suitors

Ongoing controversy surrounding the World Baseball Classic's player insurance policy may result i...

Ongoing controversy surrounding the World Baseball Classic's player insurance policy may result in some last-minute changes to rosters.On Saturday morning, after Puerto Rico captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3468188" href="https://thescore.com/news/3468188">withdrew</a> from the WBC after being declined insurance coverage, Puerto Rico Baseball Federation president Dr. José Quiles offered a harsh rebuke of the tournament's participation requirements. Dr. Quiles suggested that the insurance problems are disproportionately affecting Puerto Rico and that his nation, which is hosting Pool A at San Juan's Hiram Bithorn Stadium, may withdraw from the WBC entirely."We are considering not participating in this edition (of the WBC). It's a discussion we've already had," Quiles told <a href="https://x.com/jayfonsecapr">Puerto Rican journalist Jay Fonseca</a> in Spanish, as translated by <a href="https://x.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017636498921689280">WBC reporter Shawn Spradling</a>. "If we are not playing under equal conditions, we will not participate. It's a decision that is almost made. We are issuing a warning. We'll see what happens in the coming days, and we will make a final decision."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Puerto Rico's threat may have already spurred some change, as it could result in MLB approving additional players who were previously denied, a source told <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/01/31/sports/red-sox-moran/">Tim Healey of the Boston Globe</a>.Puerto Rico also worked with WBC president Jim Small to issue a request for MLB commissioner Rob Manfred to reconsider the cases of several of its players, according to <a href="https://x.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017735985660821855">El Nuevo Día's Carlos Rosa</a>, as translated by Spradling. A meeting was held Saturday to discuss the insurance issues.In response to the criticisms, a WBC spokesperson told <a href="https://x.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017728213636587941">Spradling</a>, "The vetting process on player eligibility for all WBC teams is currently ongoing."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here is how WBC insurance works, at least the best I understand it. It all boils down to “guaranteed salaries”: To play in the World Baseball Classic, a player on a Major League 40-man roster must be covered by insurance to guarantee their salary. The insurer for the WBC is…— Shawn Spradling (@Shawn_Spradling) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017656405285630205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Lindor was denied insurance because he underwent elbow surgery in October, shortly after the New York Mets' season ended. While he withdrew from the WBC, the 32-year-old said in a statement Friday that he'll be a full participant at Mets spring training.But Lindor was far from the only player affected. <a href="https://x.com/crosarosa/status/2017618250398335279">Eight members</a> of Puerto Rico's roster - including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992">Carlos Correa</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5166" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5166">Victor Caratini</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13614" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13614">Jovani Morán</a>, among others - also withdrew from the WBC for various reasons, including insurance issues. Venezuela lost second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a> and shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a> due to a lack of insurance; Altuve's team, the Houston Astros, reportedly requested that he skip the tournament.Rojas, who turns 37 in February, was denied insurance for the tournament because of his age. A new policy in place beginning with this WBC prevents players aged 37 or older from being insured, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/47792100/miguel-rojas-unhappy-denial-wbc-due-insurance-rule">ESPN's Alden González</a>. The new rule left him incensed ahead of what's likely his final big-league season, and last chance to play for his country."My only question is: Why is it just with our countries (in Latin America), like Venezuela, Puerto Rico, a couple Dominican players?" Rojas said Saturday at Dodgers FanFest, per González. "I don't see that happening with the United States or happening with Japan. And I'm not trying to attack anybody, or attack what's going on ... but at the end of the day, it feels like it's just happening with the players that want to represent their country from Latin America. So there's a lot of things I would like to talk about with someone in control, with someone from MLB."Full World Baseball Classic rosters will be announced Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. ET, two days after the submission deadline.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 13: Francisco Lindor #12 of Puerto Rico celebrates after hitting a triple in the fifth inning against Israel at loanDepot park on March 13, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: MLB discussing WBC insurance after Puerto Rico threatens to withdraw

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Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

News Editor

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