Atlanta Braves right-hander Spencer Strider will start against the Colorado Rockies this weekend,...

Atlanta Braves right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13620" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13620">Spencer Strider</a> will start against the Colorado Rockies this weekend, manager Walt Weiss said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/grantmcauley/status/2049223640898556392?s=20">Grant McAuley of 92.9 The Game</a>.However, the exact date of Strider's season debut hasn't been announced yet because the rotation still needs to be set for the three-game series.Strider has been sidelined with an oblique strain since the end of spring training.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 27-year-old posted a 1.93 ERA with 0.87 WHIP and 18 strikeouts over three minor-league rehab starts this season.Strider, who finished fourth in 2023 NL Cy Young voting, logged a combined 134 1/3 innings between 2024 and 2025 due to multiple ailments, including his second major elbow surgery.Strider's return should help a Braves team that has started 20-9 despite dealing with several key injuries again.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 21, 2025: Spencer Strider #99 of the Atlanta Braves throws a pitch during the fifth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on September 21, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Strider to make season debut this weekend vs. Rockies

The Cleveland Guardians called up top prospect Travis Bazzana on Tuesday, the team announced.  Ba...

The Cleveland Guardians called up top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/18837" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/18837">Travis Bazzana</a> on Tuesday, the team announced.Bazzana is expected to take over as the starting second baseman, according to <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2048934650366546352?s=20">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.Cleveland selected Bazzana with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 23-year-old is the 16th-ranked prospect in all of baseball, per <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/top100/">MLB Pipeline</a>.Bazzana recorded two homers, 10 RBIs, eight stolen bases, and a .933 OPS over 24 Triple-A games this season. He also represented Australia in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.The Guardians optioned infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15529" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15529">Juan Brito</a> to Triple-A in a corresponding move.

TEMPE, ARIZONA - MARCH 13: Travis Bazzana #72 of the Cleveland Guardians throws the ball during the Spring Training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium on March 13, 2026 in Tempe, Arizona.

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Guardians promote 2024 No. 1 pick Bazzana

San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller worked a clean ninth in Saturday's 6-4 win over the Arizona ...

San Diego Padres closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16437">Mason Miller</a> worked a clean ninth in Saturday's 6-4 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks in Mexico City to set a franchise record with 34 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings dating back to last season.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mason Miller extends his scoreless innings streak to 34.2 innings. 🤯 (Via: <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLB</a>) <a href="https://t.co/M7pmGd6mfc">pic.twitter.com/M7pmGd6mfc</a>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/2048207597082415394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Miller entered the contest tied with Cla Meredith, who established the previous mark in 2006."It's a big load off, for sure," Miller said when asked about passing Meredith, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7230628/2026/04/25/mason-miller-padres-record-scoreless-innings/">Dennis Lin of The Athletic</a>. "I think we can stop talking about it now and just keep pitching and see how long we can go."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 27-year-old has recorded 33 straight scoreless appearances. He's now 6 1/3 innings away from tying Greg Olson (1989-1990) for the longest scoreless streak by a reliever since 1961. Orel Hershiser has the MLB record at 59 innings, set in 1988.Miller owns a 0.00 ERA, 0.38 WHIP, and 27 strikeouts over 13.1 innings in 2026. He's also 10-for-10 in save opportunities.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - APRIL 25: Mason Miller #22 of the San Diego Padres celebrates after winning the MLB Mexico City Series game between San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks at Estadio Alfredo Harp Helú on April 25, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Miller sets Padres record with 34 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings

The Boston Red Sox fired longtime manager Alex Cora amid a 10-17 start to the season, the club an...

The Boston Red Sox fired longtime manager Alex Cora amid a 10-17 start to the season, the club announced Saturday.Boston is promoting Triple-A manager Chad Tracy to replace Cora in an interim role.Cora had a 619-541 record with the Red Sox. The 50-year-old's tenure was highlighted by a 2018 World Series title and also featured a 2021 ALCS appearance and a 2025 wild-card berth.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Alex Cora led this organization to one of the greatest seasons in Red Sox history in 2018, and for that, and the many years that followed, he will always have our deepest gratitude," Red Sox owner John Henry said in a statement. "He has had a lasting impact on this team and on this city. He has led on and off the field in so many important ways. "These decisions are never easy, but this one is especially difficult given what Alex has meant to the Red Sox since the day he arrived."Hitting coach Peter Fatse, third base coach Kyle Hudson, bench coach Ramón Vázquez, assistant hitting coach Dillon Lawson, and hitting strategy coach Joe Cronin were also dismissed.Game-planning coach Jason Varitek will be reassigned within the organization, although initial reports indicated he'd also been fired.The huge coaching shakeup comes after Boston's 17-1 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday.

Boston, MA - April 7: Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora returns to the dugout in the sixth inning. The Red Sox played the Milwaukee Brewers at Fenway Park on April 7, 2026.

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Red Sox fire Cora amid huge coaching shakeup

Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong isn't backing down from his preseason criticism of ca...

Chicago Cubs outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12736">Pete Crow-Armstrong</a> isn't backing down from his preseason criticism of casual Los Angeles sports fans."What I wish people could see through is, I'm not getting at die-hard Dodger fans," Crow-Armstrong said Friday, according to <a href="https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2026-04-25/pete-crow-armstrong-explains-criticism-dodgers-fans">Maddie Lee of the Los Angeles Times</a>. "They obviously exist, they're out there. I grew up seeing those people, too, but it's a 'see-me' city, man. It's a Lakers city where people show up to sit courtside and look good. And I view it the same way here."Thank you, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei (Ohtani)</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie (Freeman)</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie (Betts)</a> because it wasn't always like this."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Crow-Armstrong mocked spectators at Dodger Stadium after Friday's 6-4 win that pushed Chicago's win streak to 10 games.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"Where are you?" Pete Crow-Armstrong got back at Dodgers fans after the Cubs comeback win. (Via: <a href="https://twitter.com/WatchMarquee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WatchMarquee</a>) <a href="https://t.co/n5Wa8fc2NI">pic.twitter.com/n5Wa8fc2NI</a>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/2048142231740297454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>In February, Crow-Armstrong <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3485179" href="https://thescore.com/news/3485179">said</a> Dodgers fans go to the ballpark to "take pictures," while Cubs fans "give a shit."Dodgers fans booed Crow-Armstrong heavily during the first game of the three-game series.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pete Crow-Armstrong receives plenty of boos at Dodger Stadium. In February, PCA compared Cubs fans to Dodgers fans: "They aren't just baseball fans who go to the game like Dodgers fans to take pictures and whatever." (Via: <a href="https://twitter.com/maddie_m_lee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@maddie_m_lee</a>) <a href="https://t.co/YY1kNxUyem">pic.twitter.com/YY1kNxUyem</a>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/2047871549286560004?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Crow-Armstrong, 24, was born and grew up in the Sherman Oaks area of Los Angeles.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 24, 2026: Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) is congratulated at home plate by Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) after hitting the go-ahead 2-run homer off Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tanner Scott (66) in the ninth inning to give the Cubs the win at Dodger Stadium on April 24, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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PCA continues L.A. beef: Fans go to Dodgers, Lakers games to 'look good'

TALLADEGA, Ala. (AP) — Steve O’Donnell wants to bring some fun back to NASCAR, which he calls a “...

<div>
TALLADEGA, Ala. (AP) — Steve O’Donnell wants to bring some fun back to NASCAR, which he calls a “badass American sport.”
O’Donnell was introduced as the sanctioning body’s chief executive officer at Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday and vowed to “make some moves” that will return the storied racing series to its roots.
“We lost that in recent years,” O’Donnell said.
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
Majority owner Jim France stepped down as CEO but will remain NASCAR’s chairman, and his majority ownership stake will not change.
O’Donnell will become the first person outside the France family to hold the CEO title.
Bill France Sr. founded the racing series in 1948 and always had a family member in the top role. Ben Kennedy, France’s great-nephew and the son of NASCAR executive Lesa Kennedy France, was promoted to chief operating officer.
“They’re going to take this thing even further,” Jim France said.
Jim France had been chairman and CEO of NASCAR since the 2019 resignation of his nephew, Brian.
It marks the second promotion in nearly a year for O’Donnell, who has spent 30-plus years guiding NASCAR’s marketing and later competition departments. He was named president in March 2025.
France took a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-antitrust-lawsuit-michael-jordan-aa1b84152e9ade9b23fa369cbcc8758e">hardline stance</a> in negotiations for the 2025 revenue-sharing agreement, triggering an <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-jordan-hamlin-6b8283daa57f956292f0e56630baf81b">antitrust lawsuit</a> by Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. The sides <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-antitrust-michael-jordan-france-37e0fba49daba62b729974b0025309a1">reached a settlement</a> in December that granted NASCAR teams the permanent charters they had sought.
France struggled to remember several topics during a shaky <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-antitrust-michael-jordan-741382ed5885257858d592543df2a501">first day of testimony</a> and needed several questions repeated.
NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps resigned earlier this year after inflammatory texts he sent during contentious revenue-sharing negotiations were revealed during the trial.
O’Donnell escaped unscathed and now gets tasked with NASCAR’s next phase, which he suggested was to make sure everyone knows it’s a “badass American sport.” He vowed to unite the industry, listen to every stakeholder — including fans — and address matters with urgency.
“It’s what we have to do each and every day,” O’Donnell said. “We've got to showcase that.”
___
AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>
</div>

TALLADEGA, ALABAMA - APRIL 25: Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR Chief Executive Officer speaks to the media after the NASCAR leadership announcements during a press conference at Talladega Superspeedway on April 25, 2026 in Talladega, Alabama.

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New CEO Steve O'Donnell vows to unite NASCAR

The Philadelphia Phillies' losing streak has reached 10 consecutive games following Friday's 5-3 ...

The Philadelphia Phillies' losing streak has reached 10 consecutive games following Friday's 5-3 loss against the Atlanta Braves.Philadelphia's winless skid is the franchise's longest since an 11-game losing streak in 1999. The club has suffered only five losing streaks of 10 or more contests since 1972.The two-time defending NL East champions were expected to be a World Series contender again this season. However, the club sits last in baseball with an 8-18 record and an MLB-worst minus-53 run differential, despite having one of the highest payrolls. The team could be in jeopardy of missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021 if the year doesn't turn around.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Only four MLB clubs (1951 Giants, 1982 Braves, 2017 Dodgers, and 2025 Guardians) have made the postseason after losing 10 or more consecutive games in a single season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2917" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2917">Zack Wheeler </a>will make his season debut Saturday with the club's skid on the line. The three-time All-Star hasn't pitched since last August after undergoing shoulder surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome.The Phillies' core is led by two-time NL MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a>, reigning NL MVP runner-up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4761" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4761">Kyle Schwarber</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4814" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4814">Trea Turner</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3087" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3087">J.T. Realmuto</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11757" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11757">Cristopher Sánchez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8272">Jesús Luzardo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10794" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10794">Jhoan Duran</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4777" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4777">Aaron Nola</a>, and Wheeler. The club has plenty of talent but several players are in their mid-30s.

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 30: Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) and shortstop Trea Turner (7) sit on the bench during game between the Philadelphia Phillies versus the Washington Nationals on March 30, 2025 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.

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Phillies drop 10th straight for longest losing skid since 1999

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — NASCAR majority owner Jim France is stepping down as chief executive and w...

<div>
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — NASCAR majority owner Jim France is stepping down as chief executive and will be replaced by president Steve O'Donnell, according to multiple reports.
France will remain as NASCAR's chairman and his majority ownership stake will not change.
O'Donnell will be the first person outside the France family to hold the CEO title of NASCAR. Bill France Sr. founded the United States' most popular racing series in 1948 and always had a family member in the top role prior to the changes expected to be announced at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama on Saturday.
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
Ben Kennedy, France's great-nephew, will be promoted to chief operating officer.
Jim France had been chairman and CEO of NASCAR since the 2019 resignation of his nephew, Brian.
France took a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-antitrust-lawsuit-michael-jordan-aa1b84152e9ade9b23fa369cbcc8758e">hardline stance</a> in negotiations for the 2025 revenue-sharing agreement, triggering an <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-jordan-hamlin-6b8283daa57f956292f0e56630baf81b">anti-trust lawsuit</a> by Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. The sides <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-antitrust-michael-jordan-france-37e0fba49daba62b729974b0025309a1">reached a settlement</a> in December that granted NASCAR teams the permanent charters they had sought.
France was soft spoken, needed several questions repeated and struggled to remember several topics during his <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-antitrust-michael-jordan-741382ed5885257858d592543df2a501">first day of testimony</a> in the anti-trust trial before a stronger second day.
NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps resigned earlier this year after inflammatory texts he sent during contentious revenue-sharing negotiations were revealed during the trial.
___
AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>
</div>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 22: NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France speaks during the NASCAR Awards and Champion Celebration at the Charlotte Convention Center on November 22, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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Report: France to step down as NASCAR's CEO, O'Donnell promoted

Shohei Ohtani failed to reach base during the Los Angeles Dodgers' 3-0 loss to the San Francisco ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> failed to reach base during the Los Angeles Dodgers' 3-0 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday, ending his 53-game streak dating back to last season. Ohtani's on-base run finishes tied with Shawn Green for the second longest in Dodgers history. Duke Snider holds the franchise record at 58 games, set in 1954.The two-way star finished the game 0-for-4 with one strikeout. While he didn't manage to reach base, Ohtani did throw six shutout innings on the mound, striking out seven. He now owns a sparkling 0.38 ERA this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
20+ innings pitched and 1 or no earned runs in first 4 appearances of season, Dodgers since ER official in NL (1912): 2026 Shohei Ohtani 2016 Kenta Maeda 1985 Fernando Valenzuela 1981 Fernando Valenzuela 1916 Wheezer Dell <a href="https://t.co/VF80rg0XEI">https://t.co/VF80rg0XEI</a>— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/SlangsOnSports/status/2047160347685994848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Dodgers' defeat marked the first time that the team was held scoreless this season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8161" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8161">Tyler Mahle</a> pitched seven shutout inning on three hits with two walks and five strikeouts to pick up the win for the Giants. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12509" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12509">Patrick Bailey</a> had the big swing in the game, hitting a go-ahead three-run homer in the seventh inning.

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 08: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers walks to the dugout after striking out in the third inning during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on April 8, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Ohtani's 53-game on-base streak ends

The New York Mets ended their longest winless skid in 24 years.  The Mets halted their 12-game lo...

The New York Mets ended their longest winless skid in 24 years.The Mets halted their 12-game losing streak Wednesday with a 3-2 win over the Minnesota Twins in Juan Soto's return from a calf injury.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5394" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5394">Luke Weaver</a>, who picked up the win in relief, finished off the game instead of struggling closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Mets snap their 12-game skid 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/jL3DInthNz">pic.twitter.com/jL3DInthNz</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/2047133837616959675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"This wasn't about attitude. This wasn't about work ethic. This wasn't about a bad demeanor. There was none of that," Weaver told <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/2047136017677705305?s=20">Steve Gelbs of SNY</a> postgame. "It's about just showing up every day, giving you something to cheer about, and thankfully today we freakin' did that."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9584" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9584">Mark Vientos</a>' RBI single drove in the game-winning run in the eighth inning.However, It wasn't all good news for New York. Star shortstop <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/3528546" href="https://thescore.com/news/3528546">exited</a> the contest in the fourth with calf tightness after hurting himself running the bases. He'll undergo an MRI on Thursday.The Mets (8-16) are now tied with the Philadelphia Phillies for the NL's worst record. Both clubs were expected to fight for the NL East title this season.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 22: Juan Soto #22 and Luke Weaver #30 of the New York Mets celebrate after defeating the Minnesota Twins at Citi Field on April 22, 2026 in New York City.

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Mets snap 12-game losing streak in Soto's return

The Toronto Blue Jays could have a new closer moving forward.  Manager John Schneider said he pla...

The Toronto Blue Jays could have a new closer moving forward.Manager John Schneider said he plans to speak with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a> about the struggling reliever's status as the club's closer."We'll re-evaluate everything, talk with him, see how he's doing," Schneider said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/blue-jays-to-give-hoffman-day-off-use-time-to-discuss-his-role/">Shi Davidi of Sportsnet</a>. "He's going through it, obviously, a little bit. We'll see (about his role). Use the off day (Thursday) to talk about it with him."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hoffman has already blown three saves this season to go along with a 7.59 ERA and 2.06 WHIP over 12 appearances. However, the right-hander also has a 3.33 FIP and 24 strikeouts in 10 2/3 innings, which indicates that he's been dominant at times and otherwise dealt with bad luck on balls in play."He's a big boy," Schneider added. "He understands that the spotlight's on him a little bit and rightfully so. How can we be there to support you? How can we help you get ahead of hitters? Is it mechanical? Is it between the ears a little bit? What's going on, and how can we help?"<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15396" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15396">Louis Varland</a> is likely the favorite to replace Hoffman. Varland, who hasn't allowed an earned run this season, collected his first career save Tuesday against the Los Angeles Angels. The 28-year-old induced a game-ending double play after Hoffman loaded the bases."It's great that he's so versatile," Schneider said of Varland. "The ninth inning is different. I don't care what anyone says. Louis came into a dumpster fire and did really well. But even if it's a three-run lead with a clean inning, the ninth inning is the ninth inning, and you have to have a certain mindset to do it."

TORONTO. Jays manager John Schneider goes to the mound and takes the game ball from closer Jeff Hoffman( l)Toronto Blue Jays closer Jeff Hoffman got beat up in the ninth inning on Saturday, costing Toronto a 4-1 decision to the Milwaukee Brewers.

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Schneider: Blue Jays will re-evaluate Hoffman's closer status

The New York Mets have lost 12 straight games following Tuesday's 5-3 defeat against the Minnesot...

The New York Mets have lost 12 straight games following Tuesday's 5-3 defeat against the Minnesota Twins. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> imploded in the ninth inning to take the loss. The closer failed to record an out, surrendering two earned runs on one hit and three walks.Williams owns a 9.95 ERA with 2.68 WHIP over eight appearances this season. The 31-year-old joined the Mets in the offseason on a three-year, $51-million contract after leaving the crosstown rival New York Yankees.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's tough, man," Williams said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/mets-fall-to-twins-as-losing-streak-hits-12">Anthony DiComo of MLB.com</a>. "I've never been a part of something like this."The Mets' losing streak is now their longest since 2002. This year's club is one loss away from tying the third-longest losing streak in franchise history. The team record is 17, set in 1962.No team in MLB history has ever made the postseason after losing 12 consecutive contests during the regular season.The Mets looked poised to snap their skid with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a> taking a perfect game into the sixth with a three-run lead after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> went deep in the third. However, the Twins roared back with five unanswered runs, including Byron Buxton's two-run homer in the sixth and Luke Keaschall's game-winning RBI single in the ninth."You watch Nolan kind of dominate pretty much a whole lineup there for the first five innings," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. "… Especially how Lindor sets the tone there with a three-run homer, you feel like you're getting some momentum. But then after that, we couldn't do anything else."Minnesota's X account took a shot at the Mets postgame.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Things you can get in a dozen: - Eggs - Roses - Mets losses <a href="https://t.co/qACxaxYOn4">pic.twitter.com/qACxaxYOn4</a>— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) <a href="https://twitter.com/Twins/status/2046769469125497053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Mets own MLB's worst record at 7-16 despite having the second-largest payroll.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 21: (EDITOR'S NOTE: Image contains profanity.) A New York Mets fan expresses frustration during the game against the Minnesota Twins at Citi Field on April 21, 2026 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City.

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Mets' losing streak reaches 12 as Williams implodes in 9th vs. Twins

Philadelphia Phillies ace Zack Wheeler will make his season debut Saturday against the Atlanta Br...

Philadelphia Phillies ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2917" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2917">Zack Wheeler</a> will make his season debut Saturday against the Atlanta Braves, according to <a href="https://x.com/charlottevarnes/status/2046701624958095729?s=20">Charlotte Varnes of The Athletic</a>.Wheeler hasn't pitched in the majors since August. The three-time All-Star was originally sidelined following the removal a blood clot in his right arm, but follow-up exams revealed that he needed another procedure and would miss extended time. He then underwent shoulder surgery for venous thoracic outlet syndrome, which carried a recovery timetable of six-to-eight months.Manager Rob Thomson doesn't believe Wheeler will face many restrictions after making multiple minor-league rehab starts.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I see him as kind of a six-(inning), 90-(pitch) guy," Thomson said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/phillies-wheeler-cubs-734c4126f25cdb00779e98afed5f376c">Matt Carlson of The Associated Press</a>. "I think he's basically at the end of spring training."Wheeler posted a 5.85 ERA with 1.20 WHIP and 10.4 K/9 over 20 innings in Double-A and Triple-A this season.The 35-year-old should provide a boost to a Phillies club that's off to a disappointing 8-14 start."I think having Zack Wheeler on your 26-man roster makes you a better roster no matter what," Thomson added. "So, when he's healthy and pitching well, he's one of, if not the best pitcher in the National League."Wheeler authored a 2.71 ERA with 0.94 WHIP and 195 strikeouts over 149 2/3 innings (24 starts) last year. He's finished as the NL Cy Young runner-up in 2024 and 2021.

WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 15: Zack Wheeler #45 of the Philadelphia Phillies pitches during the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on Friday, August 15, 2025 in Washington, District of Columbia.

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Wheeler to make season debut Saturday vs. Braves

The New York Mets plan to activate star outfielder Juan Soto from the 10-day injured list before ...

The New York Mets plan to activate star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> from the 10-day injured list before Wednesday's game against the Minnesota Twins, manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/2046681481582366886?s=20">SNY</a>.However, Mendoza added that Soto will need days off and starts as the designated hitter as he continues to recover from a calf strain, per <a href="https://x.com/DeeshaThosar/status/2046681604232208526?s=20">Deesha Thosar of Fox Sports</a>.New York placed the 27-year-old on the IL on April 6. He was initially expected to miss two-to-three weeks.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Mets are in the midst of an 11-game losing streak, their longest since 2004. The club went 3-11 with Soto sidelined.The four-time All Star was off to a hot start, batting .355 with one home run, five RBIs, and a .928 OPS through eight games.Expectations were high for the Mets after an offseason overhaul that brought in <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a>, <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, and <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a>.

WEST PALM BEACH, FL - MARCH 19: New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto (22) bats during a MLB spring training game against the Houston Astros at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches on March 19, 2026 in West Palm Beach, Florida.

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Mets plan to activate Soto on Wednesday, will manage workload

Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz will undergo surgery Wednesday to remove loose bodies from ...

Los Angeles Dodgers closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> will undergo surgery Wednesday to remove loose bodies from his right elbow, the club announced Monday.Díaz is expected to return after the All-Star break, which ends July 14.General manager Brandon Gomes believes his team has multiple ninth-inning options to replace the three-time All-Star even though closing isn't for everybody.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's a different three outs, but we have multiple guys that have done it at a high level in the past. ... For our team, it's most guys," Gomes said, according to <a href="https://x.com/THEREAL_DV/status/2046384849439842619">David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports</a>.A combination of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5525">Tanner Scott</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11916" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11916">Alex Vesia</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3013" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3013">Blake Treinen</a> could fill the role in Díaz's absence.The Dodgers placed Díaz on the 15-day injured list after his fastball velocity dipped into the low-90s during Sunday's loss to the Colorado Rockies. He failed to record an out in his first appearance in nine days.The 32-year-old surrendered six earned runs on seven hits with three walks (one intentional) and two strikeouts over his last two outings.Díaz owns a 10.50 ERA, 2.33 WHIP, 10 strikeouts, and four saves over six innings this season. The right-hander joined the Dodgers on a three-year, $69-million deal in the offseason after leaving the New York Mets in free agency.Los Angeles recalled left-hander Jake Eder to take Díaz's spot on the active roster.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 10, 2026: Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Díaz (3) reacts in the dugout after blowing a save giving up three runs to the Texas Rangers in the ninth inning on April 10, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Dodgers' Díaz will have elbow surgery, expected back after All-Star break

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — NASCAR driver Tyler Reddick is riding the kind of Cup Series hot streak ...

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — NASCAR driver Tyler Reddick is riding the kind of Cup Series hot streak that Michael Jordan once enjoyed in his playing days.Oh, you can bet the NBA Hall of Famer is enjoying this one, too.Reddick roared by Kyle Larson on the final lap of overtime to win at Kansas Speedway on Sunday, becoming the fourth driver to win five of the first nine races in NASCAR's top series in a season. Chase Briscoe wound up third while Denny Hamlin, who co-owns 23XI Racing along with Jordan, had to watch from fourth as his driver reached victory lane yet again.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>“This kid is on fire. I don’t know what to say. I don’t think I can cool him down,” Jordan said. “When you win it’s always fun, and right now it’s fun for everybody at 23XI. Me being here and being able to see all the wins, I am so happy for the team.”All four of the 23XI cars finished in the top 15 on a banner day for the team.“Got to deliver for the boss man,” Reddick said of Jordan. “If he's going to come hang out with us, we have to get him dubs.”Sunday's race had been caution-free except for stage breaks until Cody Ware spun as the white flag was about to fly.Hamlin was leading at that point, and it looked as if he was about to win his record-extending fifth race at Kansas. Instead, all of the leaders had to pit, and even though Hamlin beat Reddick off pit road, the field was bunched up for the overtime restart.Larson, trying to end a 32-race winless streak, lined up behind Hamlin on the inside, and he launched to the lead when the green flag flew. Chaos ensued behind them as Christopher Bell bounced off Reddick and Hamlin and the No. 5 car began to pull away.Reddick came charging down the backstretch on the final lap, though, and he pulled alongside Larson as they went through the final corners. The No. 45 edged ahead as the checkered flag flew, and Jordan began to pump his fist in the pits in celebration.The last driver to win five of the first nine Cup Series races was Dale Earnhardt in 1987.“Just really blessed with the late caution,” Reddick said. “Was that nuts or what? I couldn't believe it.”Hamlin was happy Reddick won again. But it came at his expense, and he was decidedly unhappy about that. Asked of his frustration level, Hamlin replied: “Obviously it's not winning. It's Cody Ware, six laps down, wrecking. I don't know. Add it up.”Larson, the defending race winner, said his car's balance was off after taking two tires on the final stop, leaving him on the podium for the third time without a win this season. Briscoe and Hamlin were followed across by another 23XI driver, Bubba Wallace.“It was good execution for the restart there,” Larson said. “I got to the lead and I thought I could cruise right there to the checkered.”Except that Reddick is the only one who seems to be doing that these days. Even when he doesn't win, he's had his Toyota running up front. He was fourth last week at Bristol and has been in the top 15 in every start this season.He's a big reason Toyota is the first manufacturer since Chevrolet in 2007 to win seven of the first nine races in a season.“I just think the whole team all year has been really poised,” 23XI President Steve Lauletta said. “It's not the first time we've had any kind of adversity come at us, and they've continued to stay calm, keep each other grounded and know we have a fast car. And if you have a fast car, all you have to do is make sure you execute, and that's what they've managed to do.”Stage winnersHamlin won the first stage, giving him three consecutive stage wins at Kansas going back to last fall and eight for his career. Larson snapped the streak in Stage 2 with his third stage win of the season.Wrong way AJRyan Blaney was accelerating out of his pit box during the first stage when he got into the rear of AJ Allmendinger, who was trying to pit, sending him into a half-spin. It took Allmendinger a while to get straightened out, putting him several laps down.“Our race is done,” Allmendinger told his team over the radio.Up nextThe Cup Series heads next week to Talladega, where Austin Cindric edged Ryan Preece by 0.022 seconds for his third career win last season. In the post-race inspection, both Preece and Joey Logano were found to have infractions and were disqualified.

KANSAS CITY, KANSAS - APRIL 19: Tyler Reddick, driver of the #45 Supply House Toyota, and crew celebrate with a energy drink in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Cup Series AdventHealth 400 at Kansas Speedway on April 19, 2026 in Kansas City, Kansas.

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Francisco Lindor still believes in the New York Mets, even though Sunday's extra-innings loss mar...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> still believes in the New York Mets, even though Sunday's extra-innings loss marked their 11th straight defeat."We have a tremendous team. (President of baseball operations) David Stearns put a good team together, but this shows that nobody really cares," the shortstop said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/2045981259453628750?s=20">SNY</a>. "We've got to go out there and get it done, and this past week-and-a-half, we haven't gotten it done."The Mets lost 2-1 to the Chicago Cubs in 10 innings and are now riding the franchise's longest losing streak since 2004. The club returns home Tuesday to start a series with the Minnesota Twins following an 0-6 road trip against the Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's going to get very loud," Lindor <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/2045980944444572134">answered</a> when asked how the team can avoid spiraling mentally. "And ultimately, everyone here knows it, and we've just got to stick together and stay within ourselves and fight."The Mets had a chance to win the series finale, but closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> couldn't hold a one-run lead in the ninth inning, surrendering a game-tying RBI double to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4772">Michael Conforto</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10637">Nico Hoerner</a> hit a walk-off sac fly in extras to saddle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1378">Craig Kimbrel</a> with the loss."I'm really disappointed," Williams <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/2045983886593716651?s=20">said</a> postgame. "They gave me a lead. It's my job to hold it. I made a mistake, cost us the game today."New York (7-15) sits last in the NL East despite an offseason roster overhaul that brought in Williams, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a> to replace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>, <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/4912" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4912">Jeff McNeil</a>.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - APRIL 17: Francisco Lindor #12 of the New York Mets bats in a game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on April 17, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Lindor: Mets are 'good team' despite 11-game losing streak

Kansas City Royals catcher and team captain Salvador Perez disagreed with manager Matt Quatraro's...

Kansas City Royals catcher and team captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2082" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2082">Salvador Perez</a> disagreed with manager Matt Quatraro's decision to leave him out of the lineup for the first time this season against the New York Yankees.Quatraro said he omitted the "struggling" Perez from Saturday's lineup because the player needed "a little mental breather," according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/salvador-perez-out-of-starting-lineup-saturday-vs-yankees">MLB.com's Anne Rogers</a>.Later in the day, Perez posted on social media to dispute Quatraro's reasoning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I don’t need a mental breather— Salvador Perez (@SalvadorPerez15) <a href="https://twitter.com/SalvadorPerez15/status/2045658124921503981?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Quatraro discussed Perez's comment Sunday, acknowledging some miscommunication could've caused an issue."We're in a good spot," Quatraro said, according to <a href="https://x.com/jaylonthompson/status/2045891822778564617?s=20">Jaylon T. Thompson of the Kansas City Star</a>. "I think what stands out to me is the mental breather was, from my perspective, telling him the night before he wasn't playing so he can take some off his plate of preparing for our starting pitcher in the game plan."The skipper <a href="https://x.com/jaylonthompson/status/2045892344805786027">added</a>: "There's a tremendous amount that goes into that for a guy like him. And so, I think that's where that became a little bit misconstrued."Perez, who's back in the lineup Sunday for the series finale, also downplayed the disagreement with his manager."No frustration, zero frustration for us," Perez said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/royals-perez-quatraro-cecd3684e1cc6a6db940648352bf7377">Larry Fleisher of The Associated Press</a>. "The people, they don't want to know what's going on here. They can think and they can say whatever they want to say, you know, zero frustration. I don't have time for that."Perez is hitting .160/.210/.307 with three home runs and six RBIs in 20 games this season. The 35-year-old has left 45 runners on base, the fourth-worst mark in MLB entering Saturday.The nine-time All-Star is under contract through the 2027 season. He ranks second in franchise history with 306 career home runs.New York beat Kansas City 13-4 on Saturday. The 7-14 Royals have lost six in a row.

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 27: Catcher Salvador Perez #13 of the Kansas City Royals during the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the Kansas City Royals on March 27, 2026 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA.

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Royals' Perez claps back at Quatraro: 'I don't need a mental breather'

The San Diego Padres are closing in on an agreement to be sold to private-equity billionaire José...

The San Diego Padres are closing in on an agreement to be sold to private-equity billionaire José E. Feliciano and his wife, Kwanza Jones, sources told <a href="https://www.wsj.com/sports/baseball/san-diego-padres-sale-b954a4d4?st=s9EGga&amp;reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink">Jared Diamond and Miriam Gottfried of The Wall Street Journal</a>.The deal values the Padres at around $3.9 billion and is expected to be announced early next week, according to Diamond and Gottfried.The reported sale would shatter the MLB record for a franchise valuation, surpassing the previous mark set by Steve Cohen when he purchased the New York Mets for $2.4 billion in 2020.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Feliciano, who was born in Puerto Rico, is a co-founder and managing partner of Clearlake Capital and co-controlling owner of the Premier League's Chelsea F.C., while Jones is the CEO of Supercharged. The duo reportedly beat out Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob and businessman Dan Friedkin, as well as other bidders for the Padres.Multiple offers for the franchise exceeded $3.5 billion, sources told Diamond and Gottfried.The Seidler family has owned the Padres since 2012. However, a legal battle between family members for control of the team ensued following the death of chairman and owner Peter Seidler in November 2023. Those issues have been largely resolved as of February.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 3: General view of a San Diego Padres logo on the field at PETCO Park prior to a game against the St. Louis Cardinals at PETCO Park on April 3, 2024 in San Diego, California.

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Report: Padres nearing deal to be sold for MLB-record $3.9B

The Toronto Maple Leafs will meet with the Mats Sundin about a job in the team's hockey departmen...

The Toronto Maple Leafs will meet with the Mats Sundin about a job in the team's hockey department, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/maple-leafs-interviewing-mats-sundin-for-hockey-operations-job/">Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet</a>.Sundin, the Maple Leafs' all-time leading scorer, is reportedly in Toronto to discuss a potential advisory role.The Hall of Famer has already met with MLSE president Keith Pelley at least once, per Friedman.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sundin worked as a Swedish TV analyst for the 2026 Winter Olympics. He was also part of Team Sweden's management at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.The Leafs are looking for a new head of hockey operations after firing general manager Brad Treliving on March 30.Toronto finished last in the Atlantic Division and 28th overall to end its run of nine straight seasons with a playoff appearance.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN - NOVEMBER 15: Mats Sundin speaks at his NHL Alumni Association Börje Salming Award ceremony on November 15, 2025 in Stockholm, Sweden.

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Report: Leafs to interview Sundin for hockey operations role

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