The Tampa Bay Rays are signing right-hander Kyle Gibson to a contract, according to Jon Heyman of...

<p>The Tampa Bay Rays are signing right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1677" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1677">Kyle Gibson</a> to a contract, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1927821893555363901">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>.</p><p>It's not known yet if it's a major- or minor-league deal.</p><p>The Baltimore Orioles released Gibson on May 20 after the 37-year-old pitcher allowed 23 earned runs on 29 hits (seven homers) with seven walks and 10 strikeouts over 12 1/3 innings (four starts) this season. He didn't make his debut until late April after signing at the end of spring training.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gibson owns a 4.60 ERA with 1.39 WHIP and 7.3 K/9 over 13 years with the Minnesota Twins, Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, and Orioles.</p>

BALTIMORE, MD - APRIL 22: Kyle Gibson #48 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 22, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Report: Rays adding Gibson after Orioles release

Boston Red Sox outfielder Rob Refsnyder didn't hold back when evaluating his team's recent perfor...

<p>Boston Red Sox outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4513" href="/mlb/players/4513">Rob Refsnyder</a> didn't hold back when evaluating his team's recent performance following Monday's 3-2 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.</p><p>"I'm tired of losing," Refsnyder said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/1927134106166391218">MLB on FOX</a>. "I'm tired of losing close games. We just need to figure it out and win some games."</p><p>The Red Sox couldn't capitalize on a great start from left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>, who allowed two earned runs on five hits with two walks and matched a season-high 11 strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's disappointing that we can't come through for him," Refsnyder added. "We just need to figure it out. ... We're not getting the job done. It's not for a lack of effort, work ethic, or game planning. We're not doing it. We suck right now. We gotta be better."</p><p>Boston has won just two series in May, which has dropped the team to fourth in the AL East with a 27-29 record.</p><p>"If we want to keep losing and make excuses, we can, but we're all big leaguers," Refsnyder said when asked if it will take time for the bottom of the lineup to adjust to chipping in more with Alex Bregman injured.</p><p>"We've all been in the minor leagues. We know how to do small things (like) steal bases. ... We gotta just keep preparing and keep playing hard. I'm confident things will turn around. There's a lot of talent here and promise, but right now, it's just execution."</p><p>The Red Sox entered the season as one of the favorites to win the division after landing Crochet and Bregman during the winter. However, a lot has gone wrong for the club on and off the field. Star slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> was upset about becoming a designated hitter after playing third base his whole career and then refused to play first base following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12885" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12885">Triston Casas</a>' season-ending knee injury. Additionally, All-Star right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9530">Tanner Houck</a> struggled immensely before landing on the injured list, while Bregman is now expected to miss extended time due to a quad ailment.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - APRIL 30: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox sits in the dugout during their MLB game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on April 30, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Refsnyder gives blunt Red Sox assessment: 'We suck right now'

Welcome to theScore's roundup of everything you need to know from around MLB. Here we'll touch on...

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First pitch: Everything you need to know from the week in MLB

New York Mets left-hander David Peterson struck out Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei ...

<p>New York Mets left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9583" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9583">David Peterson</a> struck out Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> three times in an 0-for-4 performance during Saturday's 5-2 win at Citi Field.</p><p>"He's just another hitter. One of nine in their lineup," Peterson said postgame after dominating the reigning NL MVP, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1926460707043754418">SNY</a>. "That's how I look at everybody. Obviously, he's a great player, and he's done what he's done in this game. They have a lot of great hitters over there."</p><p>Peterson, who allowed just two earned runs on five hits with seven strikeouts and two walks over 7 2/3 innings, has limited Ohtani to two hits over 11 at-bats over his career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I think he made him look human," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1926459907622003022">added</a>. "This is a pretty impressive player. ... Big-time performance there, not only on Ohtani but just overall."</p><p>Mets outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto </a>delivered the game's biggest hit, driving in two runs with a double in the fourth inning to give his club a lead that it would never relinquish.</p><p>The two teams have split the first two contests of the three-game series in a rematch of the 2024 NLCS. The Dodgers took that series en route to winning the World Series.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 24: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after striking out in the first inning as Luis Torrens #13 of the New York Mets defends at Citi Field on May 24, 2025 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City.

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Mets' Peterson dominates Ohtani: 'He's just another hitter'

Texas Rangers designated hitter Joc Pederson said he expects to miss six weeks with a fractured r...

<p>Texas Rangers designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2517" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2517">Joc Pederson</a> said he expects to miss six weeks with a fractured right hand after he was hit by a pitch during Saturday's game against the Chicago White Sox, according to <a href="https://x.com/McFarland_Shawn/status/1926423526040277117">Shawn McFarland of the Dallas Morning News</a>.</p><p>Pederson originally stayed in the contest after White Sox right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9526" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9526">Bryse Wilson</a> struck him during the fourth inning. However, Texas ended up taking Pederson out for a pinch runner.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/joc-pederson-is-hit-by-a-pitch-in-the-4th?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p><em>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/joc-pederson-is-hit-by-a-pitch-in-the-4th?q=Joc%20Pederson&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">MLB.com</a>)</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pederson added postgame that he immediately felt something was off and described a clicking sensation in his hand.</p><p>The 33-year-old will now be sidelined for an extended period after slashing an abysmal .131/.269/.238 with two homers and six RBIs over 46 games.</p><p>The Rangers signed Pederson to a two-year, $37-million contract during the offseason after he went deep 23 times with 64 RBIs and a career-best .908 OPS across 132 contests for the Arizona Diamondbacks last year.</p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - MAY 14: Joc Pederson #4 of the Texas Rangers look on during the fourth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Globe Life Field on May 14, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Rangers' Pederson out 6 weeks with hand fracture after HBP

Atlanta Braves outfielder Eli White said confusion led to his inexplicable gaffe on the basepaths...

<p>Atlanta Braves outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9795" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9795">Eli White</a> said confusion led to his inexplicable gaffe on the basepaths in the ninth inning of Friday's loss to the San Diego Padres.</p><p>"It's just a terrible mistake in a huge situation," White said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/eli-white-backtracks-on-bases-in-9th-inning">Mark Bowman of MLB.com</a>. "It's a tough one to swallow."</p><p>White, who was pinch running, represented the tying run at second base with one out but was thrown out returning to second after a single by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4916" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4916">Ozzie Albies</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Padres first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a> threw White out after cutting off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14111" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14111">Jackson Merrill</a>'s throw home from the outfield.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">OH NO BRAVES??? <a href="https://t.co/HeISa8XDr0">pic.twitter.com/HeISa8XDr0</a></p>— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/1926091873593983304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I saw it go over the second baseman's head, and I thought it was low, which ended up being a good read," White said. "I just didn't trust it for whatever reason. I just got confused."</p><p>The blunder overshadowed a monumental season debut for Braves star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuña Jr</a>. The 2023 NL MVP had a pair of hits, including a leadoff homer on the first pitch he saw in almost a year after recovering from his second ACL injury.</p><p> </p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MAY 23: Eli White #36 of the Atlanta Braves is tagged out at second by Xander Bogaerts #2 of the San Diego Padres during the ninth inning at Truist Park on May 23, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Braves' White laments 'terrible' baserunning mistake in 9th

The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets were subjected to two strange MLB rules during Friday's...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets were subjected to two strange MLB rules during Friday's game.</p><p>Mets baserunner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2442" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2442">Starling Marte</a> tagged up from third base but was originally thrown out at home plate by Dodgers outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> to complete a double play in the fourth inning. However, Marte was ruled safe on the sacrifice fly because third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4250" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4250">Max Muncy</a> was judged to have interfered with Marte's ability to see Hernández make the catch.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/starling-marte-scores-on-obstruction-by-max-muncy?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/starling-marte-scores-on-obstruction-by-max-muncy?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Dodgers were confused and argued the play, but the ruling stood.</p><p>"He felt that I was purposely doing it, and he felt that I made a conscious effort to stand in the way," Muncy said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/dodgers/news/michael-conforto-safe-after-bizarre-play-in-dodgers-mets">MLB.com's Anthony DiComo and Sonja Chen</a>. "Every third baseman in the league does that. Never seen it called, and it was actually called twice tonight."</p><p>Another bizarre rulebook technicality occurred an inning earlier when Dodgers baserunner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4772">Michael Conforto</a> also somehow avoided a double play.</p><p>Conforto was on second base and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> was on first with one out. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> hit a fly ball that hit off right fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>'s glove before center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4063" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4063">Tyrone Taylor</a> eventually made a barehanded catch. Taylor then threw to second base because Conforto appeared to leave early. However, the umpires ruled that everyone was safe, and the call was upheld after video review because runners can advance as soon as a fly ball touches a fielder in any capacity.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/mets-challenged-tag-up-play-call-on-the-field-was-upheld-mookie-betts-lin?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/mets-challenged-tag-up-play-call-on-the-field-was-upheld-mookie-betts-lin?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><p>"I just learned that rule," Taylor said jokingly after the game.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 23: Starling Marte #6 of the New York Mets dives into home safely in the fourth inning while Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers applies the tag during the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets at Citi Field on Friday, May 23, 2025 in New York, New York.

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Multiple odd rules cause confusion in Dodgers-Mets game

Boston Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks doesn't know what bullpen role his team wants him to fill. ...

<p>Boston Red Sox reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2851" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2851">Liam Hendriks</a> doesn't know what bullpen role his team wants him to fill.</p><p>"No rhyme or reason. I have no idea," Hendriks said before the series finale against the New York Mets when asked to describe his role with the Red Sox, according to <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/05/21/sports/red-sox-notebook-mets-mlb-baseball/?s_campaign=bostonglobesports%3Asocialflow%3Atwitter">Alex Speier and Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe</a>. "It's actually a source of contention that I've had with (the team) and I've had multiple conversations about."</p><p>Hendriks owns a 5.56 ERA with 1.41 WHIP and 11 strikeouts over 11 1/3 innings this season after surrendering three earned runs on three hits in a loss to the Mets on Wednesday. The former All-Star closer hasn't pitched in back-to-back games in 2025 after logging just five innings between 2023-2024 as he recovered from Tommy John surgery and battled non-Hodgkin lymphoma.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I feel like I haven't been pitching enough," the 36-year-old said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1925376499294564698">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a><em>. "</em>If you want me to be me, I've got to pitch. I'll rust before I wear out, and that's something. But at the end of the day, I've got to reward them (for) throwing me by getting guys out. If I'm not doing that, I don't deserve to pitch."</p><p>Hendriks <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1925376447671132509">added</a>: "I think they understand the frustrations. I haven't been a guy who has been taken out of a game in six years, and now, it has happened back-to-back games. I don't like that. But I understand it."</p><p>He also acknowledged he hasn't requested a trade despite his concerns.</p><p>"I'm not going to go that far or pushing that agenda," Hendriks said, according to Speier and Abraham. "I just want to pitch. I feel like I can make contributions to this team. I feel like I can make a lot more contributions than I have been, and I just want to be given that opportunity."</p><p>Boston signed Hendriks to a two-year, $10-million contract in February 2024.</p><p>The right-hander was once one of the best relievers in baseball, authoring a 2.26 ERA with 114 saves and 13.5 K/9 across 226 appearances with the Athletics and Chicago White Sox between 2019 and 2022.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 20: Liam Hendriks #31 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during the eighth inning of a game against the Chicago White Sox on April 20, 2025 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Hendriks frustrated about role with Red Sox: 'Source of contention'

Warning: Video contains coarse language  New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor said he encoura...

<p><em>Warning: Video contains coarse language</em></p><p>New York Mets shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> said he encouraged the umpires to eject Boston Red Sox right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> and manager Alex Cora during Tuesday's game to gain a competitive advantage.</p><p>Buehler was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289009" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289009">tossed</a> for arguing the strike zone following Lindor's steal of second base after the latter was hit during his at-bat in the third inning. Cora was subsequently ejected for defending Buehler in the eventual 2-0 Red Sox win.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YGglfZ6rorc?si=044cfKA_aE2UOKoK" 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><p>"You gotta get a guy who wasn't expecting to pitch," Lindor said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1925287902906327370">SNY</a>. "Now he has to come in. So, it puts him in jeopardy. ... It stretches the bullpen. It puts the (Red Sox) at a disadvantage. And as a competitor, I want all of the advantages possible. ... We had opportunities, we just didn't capitalize on it. But how everything crumbled yesterday, hopefully it can help us today."</p><p>He <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1925288481590255784">added</a>: "I ain't got nothing against Buehler. I'm a lover. But yeah, I wanted him to get out of the game, it puts them at a disadvantage."</p><p>Buehler took to social media postgame to share his thoughts about Lindor's antics.</p><p>"I wouldn't want me out there either. Sad thing is, the bullpen is full of f-----g animals. Tough choice," Buehler <a href="https://x.com/buehlersdayoff/status/1925070778145317217">wrote</a> on X.</p><p>The 30-year-old clarified Wednesday that his tweet may have been a result of some liquid courage.</p><p>"I said my piece - sponsored by Buffalo Trace a little bit," the pitcher said, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1925304295571763568">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a><em>.</em> "We're all competitive. It is what it is at that point. I'd probably do the same if I was him."</p><p>Meanwhile, Cora acknowledged that he went for breakfast with Lindor and the two had a laugh about the situation. </p><p>"It's all fun and games," the skipper said, per <a href="https://x.com/WEEIAfternoons/status/1925262427165167790">WEEI</a>. "It's a game that you're allowed to show emotions. I had to protect my players. ... The cool thing is that we won the game."</p>

Boston, MA - May 20: Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora was ejected after arguing a call with home plate umpire Mike Estabrook (83) during the third inning. The Boston Red Sox host the New York Mets on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Fenway Park in Boston, MA.

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Lindor rooted for Buehler, Cora ejections to get competitive edge

Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr. acknowledged he has to play much better than he is f...

<p>Chicago White Sox outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a> acknowledged he has to play much better than he is for another team to want to swing a deal for the 2023 All-Star before the trade deadline.</p><p>"Right now, as my season is going, I don't think anybody is going to take a chance on me," Robert said through interpreter, according <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/luis-robert-jr-addresses-struggles-at-the-plate-and-trade-rumors">Scott Merkin of MLB.com</a>. "I just focus on trying to get better. I can't think of anything else."</p><p>The 27-year-old is putting up the worst campaign of his six-year career, slashing .186/.281/.308 with five homers and 17 RBIs through 44 games. His run game has been a silver lining, as he's recorded an MLB-leading 17 stolen bases in 22 attempts.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I've been stealing a lot of bases just because I have that ability and just trying to make the most of the chances that are on the bases," Robert said. "There have been few instances where I've been able to do that, especially with the season that I've been having at the plate."</p><p>Robert doesn't believe he is worn down from being a part of a White Sox club that has gone 116-256 since 2023.</p><p>"No, not really," He <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1924934424652582934">added</a>. "The team is part of you, in the same way that you are part of the team. If you are doing good individually, you're going to help the team."</p><p>Robert is making $15 million in 2025 and has two club options for 2026 and '27 that are each worth $20 million. He comes with injury risk, suiting up for only 504 games since 2020.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 20: Luis Robert Jr. #88 of the Chicago White Sox walks back to the dugout after striking out against the San Francisco Giants in the top of the first inning at Oracle Park on August 20, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

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Luis Robert: No team will want to trade for me unless I improve

Capitalizing on pit strategy, Carson Hocevar led the final 46 laps to win the All-Star Open and a...

<div>
<p>Capitalizing on pit strategy, Carson Hocevar led the final 46 laps to win the All-Star Open and advance into the NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway.</p>
<p>Runner-up John Hunter Nemechek also advanced to the main event by finishing second in the 100-lap warmup race. Noah Gragson won an online fan vote to earn the final transfer spot to the All-Star Race, whose field will include 20 other drivers competing for $1 million over 250 laps Sunday night.</p>
<p>Hocevar started second in the All-Star Open and took the lead in his No. 77 Chevrolet with a two-tire pit stop during the yellow flag for a halfway break. The Spire Motorsports driver cruised to a 0.697-second win over Nemechek, whose No. 42 Toyota charged from sixth to second over the final seven laps.</p>
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
<p>“It’s super big for this team,” Hocevar said. “It’s great to win, especially being challenged by tires there. I had my hands full. We definitely have to go to work here on our race car because I didn’t really like it. But it’s a good sign that we didn’t like it and we were still pretty quick there.”</p>
<p>Ty Dillon finished third, followed by Erik Jones and Michael McDowell.</p>
<p>Pole-sitter Shane van Gisbergen finished 13th after leading the first 54 laps on the 0.625-mile oval. The New Zealand native, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-daytona-500-gisbergen-d25c8dc4dddccf6cab152f4692334a12">who is in his first full Cup Series season</a> after winning three Supercar championships in Australia, fell from first to sixth on a four-tire pit stop during the halfway caution.</p>
<p>“I don’t know whether to smile or cry,” said van Gisbergen, who is ranked 35th in the points standings with one top 10 this season. “It’s been a dismal year for us, but I feel like we’re getting better every week. This shows it. It was awesome to lead some laps. I was out front driving like a grandma and felt like it was easy. We’re getting better.”</p>
<hl2>Costly penalty</hl2><p>Ryan Preece finished 11th in the Open after being sent to the rear from second place on a restart with 17 laps remaining. Preece said he unintentionally ran over the commitment line before which drivers must choose whether they are restarting on the inside or outside lane.</p>
<p>“It’s really nonexistent from inside the car,” Preece said. “You can’t see it. So I just hooked a left going across the line, figuring it’s in that area. I’m frustrated because if you have a situation like that, put a cone out there so we can see it. Our Ford Mustang was super fast, and I think we were the only one that was making some waves. It’s heartbreaking to have a run like that taken away.”</p>
<p>NASCAR repainted the restart commitment line before the start of the All-Star Race.</p>
<hl2>More money</hl2><p>The All-Star Race winner’s share has been $1 million since the 2003 event, and some drivers have grumbled that an increase for inflation is well overdue.</p>
<p>“I definitely think it should get raised,” 2023 Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney said this week. “That’s the only thing about the All-Star Race I’d probably change. I don’t want to get greedy, but I think you can raise it to $3 million.”</p>
<p>Bubba Wallace said he’d suggest $5 million but would be good for a bump to $3 million.</p>
<p>“They’ve got more TV money, so why not,” Wallace said, referring to NASCAR’s media rights raising <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-tv-fox-nbc-amazon-discovery-streaming-82efd536efda811c2ef3867a278384db">to $1.1 billion annually in a deal starting this year</a>.</p>
<hl2>Up next</hl2><p>The Cup Series will race May 25 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the Coca-Cola 600, the longest race of the season. <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-cocacola-600-kyle-larson-2f625be831b634ee4e9c5d29028ca91e">Christopher Bell won last year’s race</a>, which was shortened from 600 to 374 miles by rain.</p>
<p>Kyle Larson missed the 2024 race after arriving late because the Indianapolis 500 was delayed by rain. The Hendrick Motorsports star again <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-all-star-race-larson-5446b169aa9b18997ee47eafd4141a1d">will attempt to become the fifth driver to race the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day</a>.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a></p>
</div>

NORTH WILKESBORO, NORTH CAROLINA - MAY 18: Carson Hocevar, driver of the #77 Gainbridge/WNBA All Star '25 Chevrolet, and Ryan Preece, driver of the #60 Boston Common Golf Ford, race during the NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Open at North Wilkesboro Speedway on May 18, 2025 in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina.

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Hocevar wins All-Star Open; Nemechek, Gragson advance to All-Star Race main event

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo had one of the best ejections in recent memory after g...

<p>Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo had one of the best ejections in recent memory after getting heated about an obstruction call in the eighth inning of Wednesday's game against the San Francisco Giants.</p><p>After he was ejected for arguing about the play getting overturned, Lovullo decided to give the umpires a taste of their own medicine by individually tossing the crew members.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/torey-lovullo-is-ejected-vs-giants?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>However, the 59-year-old skipper admitted postgame the umpires did make the right call when they ruled that Diamondbacks second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14367">Jordan Lawlar</a> obstructed Giants baserunner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13719" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13719">Christian Koss</a> after the latter was originally called out following a collision between the two players.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"They're really good," Lovullo said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/diamondbacks-giants-lovullo-score-a782be2b1c636de5b61f768566316e64">Steve Kroner of The Associated Press</a>. "Umpires are good. I stand corrected."</p><p>He added: "In the heat of the moment, it wasn't adding up to me, and I felt like they were just trying to cover themselves a little bit. But in reality, there was obstruction called."</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 14: Manager Torey Lovullo #17 of the Arizona Diamondbacks argues with umpire Nic Lentz #59 during the game against the San Francisco Giants in the bottom of the eighth inning at Oracle Park on May 14, 2025 in San Francisco, California. Lovullo was ejected from the game.

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D-Backs' Lovullo ejects entire umpiring crew after getting tossed

Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. said he apologized to his teammates and manager Brian ...

<p>Atlanta Braves outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuña Jr.</a> said he apologized to his teammates and manager Brian Snitker for posting a since-deleted tweet on X that implied a double standard by the skipper, according to <a href="https://x.com/DOBrienATL/status/1922788562728009883">David O'Brien of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Acuña, who's recovering from knee surgery, caused a stir when he suggested he would've been removed from a game if the 2023 NL MVP did what teammate Jarred Kelenic did April 20 when the latter was thrown out at second base after admiring a long fly ball against the Minnesota Twins. However, Kelenic stayed in the contest, and Snitker admitted postgame that he didn't see the play.</p><p>"I talked to them man-to-man," Acuña said Wednesday through an interpreter while on a rehab assignment at Triple-A, according to <a href="https://x.com/680TheFan/status/1922790515382046898">680 The Fan</a>. "Admitted that I was wrong. I told them I was not coming here with any excuses. Took accountability for what I did."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old added that he was upset at the time he posted the comment because he couldn't help his then-slumping team, which had a 8-13 record at that point in large part because of a seven-game losing streak to start the season.</p><p>"I've always just felt such a strong sense of pride of being a member of this organization," Acuña said. "I want to be here my whole career. So, seeing the team and my teammates going through (struggles) and not being able to help ... was where the frustration was coming from."</p><p>Acuña could rejoin the Braves at the end of May or early June based on his rehab games.</p>

ATLANTA, GA SEPTEMBER 13: Injured Atlanta outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (13) in the dugout during the MLB game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Atlanta Braves on September 13th, 2024 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA.

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Acuña apologizes to Braves for double standard comment

The Boston Red Sox placed right-hander Tanner Houck on the 15-day injured list Wednesday because ...

<p>The Boston Red Sox placed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9530">Tanner Houck</a> on the 15-day injured list Wednesday because of a flexor pronator strain.</p><p>Houck, a 2024 All-Star, owns a 8.04 ERA with 1.69 WHIP and 32 strikeouts over 43 2/3 innings (nine starts) this season.</p><p>The 28-year-old surrendered 11 earned runs on nine hits with three walks and zero strikeouts across 2 1/3 innings in his last start Monday against the Detroit Tigers. He <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285061" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285061">said</a> postgame that he was "lost" on the mound.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Houck also became the first pitcher in MLB history to allow 11-plus runs in a start of fewer than three innings pitched twice in the same season. He allowed 11 earned runs April 14 versus the Tampa Bay Rays.</p><p>The hurler's struggles in 2025 come after breaking out last year, authoring a 3.12 ERA with 1.14 WHIP and 7.8 K/9 across a career-high 178 2/3 innings (30 starts).</p><p>Right-hander Cooper Criswell was recalled from Triple-A to take Houck's spot on the active roster.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 09: Tanner Houck #89 of the Boston Red Sox walks off of the field after being taken out of the game against the Toronto Blue Jays during the seventh inning at Fenway Park on April 09, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Red Sox place Houck on IL with forearm strain

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced left-hander Clayton Kershaw will make his season debut Saturday...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers announced left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/945" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/945">Clayton Kershaw</a> will make his season debut Saturday against the Los Angeles Angels</p><p>Kershaw, who had knee and toe surgeries during the offseason, is in his 18th campaign with the Dodgers.</p><p>"It's a big shot in the arm," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/clayton-kershaw-dodgers-8620c0a0ee39fa7262d32af30a68de9f">Beth Harris of The Associated Press</a>. "Clayton has worked really hard to get healthy and the bar is high for him. He doesn't want to just come back to be active. He wants to be come back and help us win baseball games and be good. I know he's excited to contribute."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The three-time NL Cy Young winner and 10-time All-Star was limited to 30 innings (seven starts) because of injuries last year. However, he's 32 strikeouts away from becoming the 20th pitcher in MLB history to record 3,000 during a career.</p><p>Hall of Famers Randy Johnson, Steve Carlton, and CC Sabathia are the only left-handers to accomplish the vaunted feat.</p><p>Kershaw, 37, would be a welcome addition to Los Angeles' rotation if he can stay healthy. The club's pitching staff is currently missing stars such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a>.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JULY 25: Clayton Kershaw #22 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches in the top of the first inning during the regular season game against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium on July 25, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Kershaw to make season debut Saturday vs. Angels

MLB removed Pete Rose, "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, and other deceased players from the permanently in...

<p>MLB removed Pete Rose, "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, and other deceased players from the permanently ineligible list, the league announced Tuesday.</p><p>National Baseball Hall of Fame chairman Jane Forbes Clark said the decision will allow players who've been removed from the list to be considered for enshrinement, according to <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/1922385240284127450">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>. A historical committee will create an eight-person ballot for the Classic Baseball Era Committee to vote on in December 2027, Forbes Clark added.</p><p>Under the Hall of Fame's current rules, the earliest that Rose and Jackson could be inducted is 2028.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>MLB commissioner Rob Manfred ruled that permanent ineligibility is lifted when a player dies.</p><p>"Obviously, a person no longer with us cannot represent a threat to the integrity of the game," Manfred wrote in a letter to Rose's lawyer, Jeffrey M. Lenkov, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45115659/pete-rose-shoeless-joe-jackson-players-reinstated-mlb">Don Van Natta Jr. of ESPN</a>. "Moreover, it is hard to conceive of a penalty that has more deterrent effect than one that lasts a lifetime with no reprieve.</p><p>"Therefore, I have concluded that permanent ineligibility ends upon the passing of the disciplined individual, and Mr. Rose will be removed from the permanently ineligible list."</p><p>Rose, baseball's all-time hit king, was placed on the permanently ineligible list in 1989 for betting on baseball games while he was a player-manager for the Cincinnati Reds in 1986. A 1991 rule change made players on the list ineligible for the Hall of Fame.</p><p>Cincinnati will honor Rose, who died in September 2024 at age 83, before playing the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday.</p><p>The 17-time All-Star recorded 4,256 hits over a 24-year career that included stops with the Reds, Philadelphia Phillies, and Montreal Expos from 1963-86. He's also the major-league leader in games played (3,562), at-bats (14,053), singles (3,215), and times on base (5,929).</p><p>Jackson and seven other White Sox were banned in 1921 for fixing the 1919 World Series in what is now referred to as the Black Sox Scandal<em>. </em>Jackson, who posted a career .356 batting average, died in 1951 but remains a well-known figure in baseball lore and pop culture after Ray Liotta portrayed him in the 1989 film "Field of Dreams."</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31278912/related

Pete Rose, 'Shoeless' Joe eligible for HOF as MLB ends ban

The New York Mets are exploring a potential trade for Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr...

<p>The New York Mets are exploring a potential trade for Chicago White Sox outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a></p><p>The Mets are among the teams to recently inquire about Robert, according to <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2025/05/11/pete-alonso-stats-new-york-mets/83556338007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a><em>.</em></p><p>Meanwhile, the White Sox are reportedly showing interest in pitching prospect Blade Tidwell as one piece of a larger package.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New York is currently starting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4063" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4063">Tyrone Taylor</a> in center field with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4979" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4979">Jose Siri</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4022" href="/mlb/players/4022">Jesse Winker</a> sidelined because of long-term injuries.</p><p>Robert has five homers, 16 RBIs, and a .619 OPS with an AL-leading 15 stolen bases over 37 games this season. He's just two years removed from a 2023 All-Star campaign in which he went deep 38 times with an .857 OPS over 145 contests.</p><p>The 27-year-old is making $15 million in 2025 and has two club options for 2026-27 that are worth $20 million per season. He comes with injury risk, however, because he's suited up for only 504 games over his six-year career.</p><p>Tidwell, 23, is the fifth-best pitching prospect in the Mets' minor-league system, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/mets">MLB Pipeline</a>. The right-hander owns a 4.45 ERA with 12.5 K/9 across 30 1/3 innings (seven starts) in Triple-A this season but was rocked in his MLB debut May 4, allowing six earned runs on nine hits over 3 2/3 innings against the St. Louis Cardinals.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MAY 2: Luis Robert Jr #88 of the Chicago White Sox celebrates a solo home run in the bottom of the fifth inning in a game against the Houston Astros at Rate Field on May 2, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31257444/related

Report: Mets interested in Luis Robert; White Sox like Blade Tidwell

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes wants to see some urgency from his team after manager Derek Sh...

<p>Pittsburgh Pirates ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> wants to see some urgency from his team after manager Derek Shelton was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3282682" href="https://thescore.com/news/3282682">fired</a> following a 12-26 start to the season.</p><p>"That's one thing that we need to figure out as a group, is what our goal is for the season, and figure out how to get there," Skenes told reporters Friday, including <a href="https://x.com/colin_beazley/status/1920934058705444906">Colin Beazley of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette</a>. "Salvageable. What does that mean? And I'm not saying for you or for the rest of the media, but what does it mean within the locker room, too.</p><p>"If nothing else, we're going to grow. We better grow. Because then, if we don't grow, it's a completely lost season. ... Gotta keep going and understand the urgency of where we're at right now."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Skenes has done his part, authoring a 2.77 ERA with 0.95 WHIP and 47 strikeouts over 48 2/3 innings (eight starts) in 2025. The 22-year-old phenom is the reigning NL Rookie of the Year after becoming a 2024 NL Cy Young finalist despite making only 23 starts. However, the Pirates still finished last in the NL Central - the same spot the club is currently in.</p><p>Pittsburgh is riding a seven-game losing streak and sits 10 games behind the division-leading Chicago Cubs and 10.5 games out of the NL's final wild-card spot.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 27: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates looks on against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fifth inning at Dodger Stadium on April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31239031/related

Skenes: 'Completely lost season' if Pirates don't grow after Shelton firing

The Pittsburgh Pirates axed manager Derek Shelton on Thursday after amid a current seven-game ski...

<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates axed manager Derek Shelton on Thursday after amid a current seven-game skid and a 12-26 start to the season.</p><p>The club also fired game-planning coach Radley Haddad, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1920823971471106284">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>Shelton, 54, posted a 306-440 record after joining Pittsburgh prior to the 2020 campaign. The club never won more than 76 games in a season with him at the helm.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Derek is a good man who did a lot for the Pirates and Pittsburgh, but it was time for change," team owner Bob Nutting said in a statement. "The first quarter of the season has been frustrating and painful for all of us. We have to do better."</p><p>Nutting added, "There is a lot baseball left to be played. We need to act with a sense of urgency and take the steps necessary to fix this now to get back on track as a team and organization."</p><p>The 38-game mark is the earliest the Pirates fired a manager since Bill Watkins was canned after 22 games in 1899, according to <a href="https://x.com/jaysonst/status/1920529323934564823">Jayson Stark of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Bench coach Don Kelly was named the interim skipper. The 45-year-old former utility man played in the majors from 2007-16, including 25 contests with the Pirates.</p><p>"I believe strongly Donnie is the right person to manage the team right now," Pirates general manager Ben Cherington said. "He has the skills and experience needed to do this job really well and deeply cares about the Pirates and Pittsburgh."</p><p>The Pirates own a minus-57 run differential despite boasting young stars such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10705" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10705">Oneil Cruz</a>. The club sits last in the NL Central and is already 10 games behind the division-leading Chicago Cubs.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 23: Manager Derek Shelton of the Pittsburgh Pirates looks on during the game against the St. Louis Cardinals at PNC Park on July 23, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31228422/related

Pirates fire manager Shelton amid 7-game losing streak

Welcome to the first edition of theScore's 2025 Most Valuable Player rankings, where we look at t...

<p><em>Welcome to the first edition of theScore's 2025 Most Valuable Player rankings, where we look at the top five players in each league. Let's run through some of the best performances through the first month-and-a-half of the season. Odds courtesy theScore Bet.</em></p><h3>American League</h3><p><strong>5. Bobby Witt Jr., Royals</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783705/cropped_GettyImages-2212222383.jpg?ts=1746211867" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783705/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212222383.jpg?ts=1746211867 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783705/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212222383.jpg?ts=1746211867 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783705/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212222383.jpg?ts=1746211867 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783705/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212222383.jpg?ts=1746211867 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783705/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212222383.jpg?ts=1746211867 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Carlee Calfee / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>.310/.383/.493</td>
<td>2.1</td>
<td>+1400</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The reigning AL MVP runner-up slashed .363/.442/.550 with 11 extra-base hits, 14 RBIs, and six stolen bases during a 22-game hit streak following a slow start to the season. He raised his OPS by almost .200 points during his torrid April 8-May 1 stretch thanks to six multi-hit contests. The 24-year-old's play also helped the Royals win 11 out of their last 13 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>4. Alex Bregman, Red Sox</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780808/cropped_GettyImages-2210479230.jpg?ts=1744769722" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780808/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210479230.jpg?ts=1744769722 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780808/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210479230.jpg?ts=1744769722 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780808/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210479230.jpg?ts=1744769722 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780808/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210479230.jpg?ts=1744769722 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780808/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210479230.jpg?ts=1744769722 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>.315/.393/.580</td>
<td>1.9</td>
<td>N/A</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Bregman's been the best third baseman in baseball this season. He leads all qualified players at his position in<strong> </strong>hits (45), runs (26), doubles (14), RBIs (27), and fWAR (1.9). The 31-year-old is in the 87th percentile for average exit velocity, 80th for hard-hit percentage, and 83rd in expected slugging percentage. His approach at the plate has been great: He sits in the 93rd percentile for chase percentage and 89th in whiff percentage.</p><p><strong>3. Jorge Polanco, Mariners</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784192/cropped_GettyImages-2212827815.jpg?ts=1746473265" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784192/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212827815.jpg?ts=1746473265 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784192/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212827815.jpg?ts=1746473265 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784192/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212827815.jpg?ts=1746473265 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784192/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212827815.jpg?ts=1746473265 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784192/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212827815.jpg?ts=1746473265 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>.356/.406/.724</td>
<td>1.4</td>
<td>N/A</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Coming off the worst full season of his 12-year career, Polanco's responded with a monster start. The former All-Star's 224 wRC+ is second only to Aaron Judge among hitters with at least 90 plate appearances in 2025. The veteran infielder has predominantly played as a designated hitter, which has allowed him to focus on offense. He's recorded seven multi-hit games, including four three-hit contests.</p><p><strong>2. Cal Raleigh, Mariners </strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740810/cropped_GettyImages-2165903727.jpg?ts=1723425973" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740810/w220xh124_GettyImages-2165903727.jpg?ts=1723425973 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740810/w320xh180_GettyImages-2165903727.jpg?ts=1723425973 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740810/w640xh360_GettyImages-2165903727.jpg?ts=1723425973 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740810/w768xh432_GettyImages-2165903727.jpg?ts=1723425973 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740810/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2165903727.jpg?ts=1723425973 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brandon Sloter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>.246/.364/.577</td>
<td>2.0</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Raleigh is the heart and soul of the Mariners on both sides of the ball.<strong> </strong>The 28-year-old is tied for the MLB lead with 12 long balls and has posted a 170 wRC+ to pace his AL West-leading team. The star catcher's defensive numbers are still strong but have gone down after securing a Gold Glove and Platinum Glove last year: He sits in the 91st percentile in framing and 50th in pop time.</p><p><strong>1. Aaron Judge, Yankees</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781985/cropped_GettyImages-2210586573.jpg?ts=1746209306" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781985/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210586573.jpg?ts=1746209306 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781985/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210586573.jpg?ts=1746209306 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781985/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210586573.jpg?ts=1746209306 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781985/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210586573.jpg?ts=1746209306 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781985/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210586573.jpg?ts=1746209306 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">New York Yankees / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>34</td>
<td>.412/.503/.772</td>
<td>3.5</td>
<td>-900</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>It's Judge's world and everybody else is just living in it. It's hard to comprehend that the Yankees captain has taken another leap in his age-33 season; over the last three years, he slashed a combined .304/.433/.674 with 157 homers, 350 RBIs, and a 202 wRC+ en route to winning a pair of MVP awards. However, the superstar outfielder's astonishing numbers now put him in prime Barry Bonds territory. Surely, he will regress soon ... or maybe not? His manager doesn't think he's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3277671" href="https://thescore.com/news/3277671">even gotten hot yet</a>.</p><h3>National League</h3><p><strong>5. Shohei Ohtani, Dodgers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778662/cropped_GettyImages-2208232869.jpg?ts=1743686734" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778662/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208232869.jpg?ts=1743686734 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778662/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208232869.jpg?ts=1743686734 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778662/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208232869.jpg?ts=1743686734 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778662/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208232869.jpg?ts=1743686734 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778662/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208232869.jpg?ts=1743686734 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronald Martinez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>34</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>.296/.399/.607</td>
<td>1.9</td>
<td>+225</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Ohtani's numbers are a little down compared to his historic 2024 season that secured his third MVP award over the last four years. However, he's still been the best player on the best team in baseball, so he gets the benefit of the doubt over other potential early candidates such as Pete Crow-Armstrong or Geraldo Perdomo. The 30-year-old DH could also return to the mound at some point, which would elevate his status.</p><p><strong>4. Corbin Carroll, Diamondbacks</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784293/cropped_GettyImages-2209464634.jpg?ts=1746538237" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784293/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209464634.jpg?ts=1746538237 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784293/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209464634.jpg?ts=1746538237 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784293/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209464634.jpg?ts=1746538237 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784293/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209464634.jpg?ts=1746538237 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784293/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209464634.jpg?ts=1746538237 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">G Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>.288/.355/.588</td>
<td>2.2</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Carroll is having a massive bounce-back campaign after the 2023 NL Rookie of the Year failed to meet lofty expectations in his second season. The 24-year-old sits in the top 10 in almost every significant offensive category, including hits (44), triples (four), homers (10), runs scored (29), slugging percentage (.588), and OPS (.943). What's a little surprising is that he only has five steals despite ranking in the 98th percentile in sprint speed. He swiped a combined 89 bags across 2023-24.</p><p><strong>3. Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780672/cropped_GettyImages-2209365653.jpg?ts=1744726639" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780672/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209365653.jpg?ts=1744726639 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780672/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209365653.jpg?ts=1744726639 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780672/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209365653.jpg?ts=1744726639 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780672/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209365653.jpg?ts=1744726639 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780672/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209365653.jpg?ts=1744726639 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>34</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>.321/.388/.557</td>
<td>2.1</td>
<td>+500</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Tatis looks like the player he was in 2021 when he finished as an NL MVP finalist. His 164 wRC+ only trails Ohtani, Pete Alonso, and Kyle Schwarber among his peers in the Senior Circuit. He's also made it a point to incorporate his legs as a weapon again, stealing eight bases on 10 attempts in 34 games after recording 11 on 14 tries across 102 contests in 2024.</p><p><strong>2. </strong><strong>Kyle Tucker, Cubs</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/cropped_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>.290/.399/.559</td>
<td>1.9</td>
<td>+425</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>"The new kid with the huge feet," as Brewers manager Pat Murphy <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3281074" href="https://thescore.com/news/3281074">referred</a> to him, has been terrorizing the NL after an offseason trade from the Astros. Tucker has a chance to break the bank in his looming free agency. In the meantime, he's transformed the Cubs into an offensive juggernaut with plus-60 run differential.<strong> </strong>The team has also scored an MLB-best 222 runs and swatted the third-most homers (55). </p><p><strong>1. Pete Alonso, Mets</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784171/cropped_GettyImages-2212651584.jpg?ts=1746470623" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784171/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212651584.jpg?ts=1746470623 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784171/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212651584.jpg?ts=1746470623 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784171/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212651584.jpg?ts=1746470623 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784171/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212651584.jpg?ts=1746470623 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784171/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212651584.jpg?ts=1746470623 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dustin Satloff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>AVG/OBP/SLG</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>34</td>
<td>.341/.463/.659</td>
<td>2.4</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The vibe around Alonso is completely different since he returned to the Mets on a two-year, $54-million prove-it deal. The four-time All-Star is tied for the NL-lead in RBIs and owns the highest fWAR and wRC+ in that league. The 30-year-old also sits in the 96th percentile or better in seven different categories on Baseball Savant. If the slugging first baseman can keep this up, he has a chance to finally get his monster payday next winter.</p>

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MLB MVP Rankings: Stars shining bright early in New York

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Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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