The Atlanta Braves signed free-agent veteran outfielder Alex Verdugo to a one-year contract worth...

<p>The Atlanta Braves signed free-agent veteran outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/5637" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/5637">Alex Verdugo</a> to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million, the club announced Thursday.</p><p>The Braves subsequently optioned Verdugo to Triple-A Gwinnett. Atlanta largely made the move to get Verdugo at-bats after he missed almost all of spring training, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1902786547520508396">ESPN's Alden Gonzalez</a>.</p><p>Verdugo spent the 2024 season with the New York Yankees but had a softer-than-anticipated free-agent market this winter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Reports earlier this week <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3245190" href="https://thescore.com/news/3245190">indicated</a> that Verdugo had yet to receive a major-league contract offer at any point during the offseason.</p><p>Verdugo struggled at the plate last season, slashing .233/.291/.356 with 13 home runs, 28 doubles, and 61 RBIs across 149 games with the Yankees.</p><p>The 28-year-old owns a career 101 OPS+ with 70 home runs, 409 runs scored, and 316 RBIs across eight MLB seasons between the Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers.</p><p>Verdugo will give Braves manager Brian Snitker another outfield option behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12253" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12253">Michael Harris</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10712" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10712">Jarred Kelenic</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2876" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2876">Jurickson Profar</a> to start the regular season. Braves superstar outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuña Jr.</a> is expected to miss at least the campaign's first month as he continues to recover from a knee injury that ended his 2024 season early.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 09: Alex Verdugo #24 of the New York Yankees reacts after a double against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the third inning at Yankee Stadium on June 09, 2024 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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Braves, Verdugo agree to 1-year, $1.5M deal

The Cincinnati Reds and veteran catcher Jose Trevino agreed to a three-year contract extension, t...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds and veteran catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5665" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5665">Jose Trevino</a> agreed to a three-year contract extension, the club announced Thursday.</p><p>The deal is worth almost $15 million and comes with a club option, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1902771729753145466">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>.</p><p>The Reds acquired Trevino from the New York Yankees for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14097" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14097">Fernando Cruz</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4778" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4778">Alex Jackson</a> in December.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old is expected to be the Reds' starting catcher on Opening Day after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8162" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8162">Tyler Stephenson</a> sustained an oblique injury.</p><p>Trevino is an excellent defensive catcher, ranking in the 95th percentile in framing and the 88th percentile in blocks above average last season. His best season came in 2022 when he made his only All-Star Game and earned a Gold Glove and a Platinum Glove for his efforts behind the plate.</p><p>Trevino hit .215 with a .642 OPS, eight home runs, and 28 RBIs across 73 games for the Yankees in 2024.</p>

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 12: Jose Trevino #35 of the Cincinnati Reds hits a double against the Texas Rangers during the second inning of the MLB game at Surprise Stadium on March 12, 2025 in Surprise, Arizona.

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Reds sign Trevino to 3-year extension reportedly worth almost $15M

Toronto Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro remains confident the club will find a way to keep Vladi...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro remains confident the club will find a way to keep <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> for the long haul.</p><p>"When it comes to Vlad's contractual situation, I guess my overarching feeling is one of optimism," Shapiro said Thursday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/1902738150205555104">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>. "I think we're going to sign him. I think we're going to extend him. The reason I feel that way is because we have such a clear alignment on the desired outcome."</p><p>The two sides couldn't agree on a long-term extension before Guerrero's self-imposed deadline in February. Guerrero said he's focused on the 2025 season and plans to test free agency after the campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Vlad wants to play his whole career as a Toronto Blue Jay," Shapiro said. We want him to end his career in a Blue Jays uniform, to be a true legacy player for the Toronto Blue Jays. That's a pretty good place to start."</p><p>The Blue Jays <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3239777" href="https://thescore.com/news/3239777">reportedly</a> offered Guerrero a contract for around $500 million, with deferrals putting the current value between $400 million and $450 million.</p><p>The 25-year-old is said to be looking for a contract with a present value of $500 million.</p><p>"The challenge has been that area we've talked about before: finding the sweet spot of sharing risk," Shapiro said. "What defines that sweet spot? Different contracts, different moments in time that make it more of a challenge or less of a challenge. Ultimately, sometimes free agency provides the clearest answer to that."</p><p>Guerrero said in early March that he's seeking a 14-year contract worth less than the $765-million megadeal <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> received from the New York Mets.</p><p>Guerrero also remains positive about potentially working out a deal.</p><p>"I've always felt good about the whole thing," he said in response to Shapiro's comments, according to <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/1902821567299559934">Sportsnet's Hazel Mae</a>. "I'm good with that. Just going to keep working very hard and be optimistic too.</p><p>"Not going to shut the door on them. ... I'll be open. But I'm going to leave that to my agents to work with that. If there's something there, they're going to continue to work with that. I'm just going to be on the field, focusing on my teammates, on my team, on my game."</p><p>The four-time All-Star is coming off an excellent 2024 season at the plate. Guerrero hit 30 homers with 103 RBIs and a .940 OPS over 159 games to earn the second Silver Slugger of his career.</p>

DUNEDIN, FLORIDA - MARCH 10: Vladimir Guerrero Jr #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays runs to first base against the Houston Astros during a Grapefruit League spring training game at TD Ballpark on March 10, 2025 in Dunedin, Florida.

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Shapiro optimistic Blue Jays will extend Guerrero

Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington is taking a unique approach in an effort to increase te...

<p>Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington is taking a unique approach in an effort to increase team chemistry this season.</p><p>Washington said Wednesday that he's implemented a new rule prohibiting players from being on their cellphones at their lockers, according to <a href="https://x.com/RhettBollinger/status/1902419432816906428">MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger</a>.</p><p>The move was intended to encourage more interaction and bonding between the players. Angels star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15522" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15522">Zach Neto</a> said it's already paying dividends.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Washington is entering his second season at the helm of the Angels. He led the club to a 63-99 record in 2024 as it finished in the basement of the division for the first time since 1999. The 99 losses were the most in franchise history.</p><p>The Angels were active in the offseason, adding more veterans on both sides of the ball including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5008" href="/mlb/players/5008">Yoán Moncada</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4787" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4787">Tim Anderson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2068" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2068">Travis d'Arnaud</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10619" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10619">Yusei Kikuchi</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4432" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4432">Kyle Hendricks</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1563" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1563">Kenley Jansen</a>.</p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 28: Manager Ron Washington #37 of the Los Angeles Angels walks onto the field prior to the spring training game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Camelback Ranch on February 28, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Angels ban players from using cellphones at lockers

Alex Bregman admitted he was gearing up to join the Detroit Tigers until the Boston Red Sox swoop...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> admitted he was gearing up to join the Detroit Tigers until the Boston Red Sox swooped in with a late contract offer.</p><p>"We thought we were going to be in Detroit the entire time, honestly. And then, at the last second, Boston kind of came in," Bregman said on "<a href="https://x.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1902380375508181292">Foul Territory</a>."</p><p>The Tigers were connected to Bregman throughout the offseason before he ultimately inked a three-year, $120-million contract with the Red Sox in February.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Detroit reportedly offered Bregman a six-year deal worth more than $170 million.</p><p>"It was kind of crazy," Bregman said of the free-agent process. "Met with a lot of teams, and then, honestly, everything happened in the last 30 minutes. It was kind of rapid fire. ... We talked to Boston and the deal got done."</p><p>Bregman has seen the majority of his reps at third base this spring. Last year's starter, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a>, has yet to make an appearance at third after a shoulder injury hampered him last season.</p><p>Manager Alex Cora said Wednesday that Devers is unlikely to make an appearance at third base before Opening Day, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1902350225718566969">Chris Cotillo of MassLive</a>.</p>

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - MARCH 15: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox throws during the first inning of a spring training game against the Atlanta Braves at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida on March 15, 2025.

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Bregman thought he'd sign with Tigers before Red Sox swooped in

Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Jared Jones will miss his final start of spring training due to e...

<p>Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15909">Jared Jones</a> will miss his final start of spring training due to elbow discomfort, manager Derek Shelton announced Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/AlexJStumpf/status/1902346389255774230">MLB.com's Alex Stumpf</a>.</p><p>Shelton added that Jones felt the discomfort after throwing a bullpen session. It's unclear if he'll be ready to make his first start of the regular season.</p><p>The 23-year-old is expected to be a big piece of a Pirates rotation alongside 2024 NL Rookie of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> and veteran right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236">Mitch Keller</a>. Left-handers <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4241">Andrew Heaney</a> and <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12574">Bailey Falter</a> will likely fill out the rotation's final two spots.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jones put together a strong rookie campaign in 2024, posting a 6-8 record with a 4.14 ERA, 9.88 K/9, and 1.8 fWAR in 121 2/3 innings.</p><p>Jones utilized a two-pitch mix of fastball and slider to keep hitters off balance. His slider held opponents to a .207 batting average with an impressive 37.3% whiff rate last season.</p>

FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - MARCH 13: Jared Jones #37 of the Pittsburgh Pirates throws a pitch during the first inning of a spring training game against the Minnesota Twins at Lee Health Sports Complex on March 13, 2025 in Fort Myers, Florida.

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Pirates' Jones to miss final spring start with elbow discomfort

Baltimore Orioles prospect Coby Mayo isn't thrilled about being sent back to Triple-A.  "It defin...

<p>Baltimore Orioles prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14245" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14245">Coby Mayo</a> isn't thrilled about being sent back to Triple-A.</p><p>"It definitely is difficult," Mayo said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1902045917240267146">MLB.com's Jake Rill</a>. "It obviously sucks because you feel like you've proved everything you needed to. And sometimes it doesn't feel like it's quite enough."</p><p>Mayo belted 22 home runs with a .926 OPS in 89 games at Triple-A last season. However, he struggled in a brief MLB stint, mustering just four hits in 41 at-bats after he was called up in August.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"You go back there and if you have success, it's: 'Oh, he's supposed to have success because he's already proven it.' And if he doesn't have success, it’s: 'Oh, well, obviously he's fallen off.' It's kind of a lose-lose going to Norfolk," Mayo said, according to <a href="https://x.com/afkostka/status/1902046316483768605">Andy Kostka of The Baltimore Banner</a>.</p><p>Mayo struggled at the plate this spring, posting a .501 OPS with three doubles and three RBIs across 42 at-bats.</p><p>Orioles manager Brandon Hyde explained why Mayo didn't make the Opening Day roster following the decision.</p><p>"That's what happens when you have good teams. Good teams option players that they like," the skipper told <a href="https://x.com/masnRoch/status/1902092541404512266">MASN's Roch Kubatko</a>. "I thought Coby ended his camp well. We're happy about his performance, especially the last week of spring training and the improvements he's made defensively at both spots."</p><p>The 23-year-old is the Orioles' No. 2 prospect and is ranked 14th on MLB.com's list of the top 100 prospects.</p>

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA - MARCH 2: Coby Mayo #16 of the Baltimore Orioles walks up to the batter's box in the second inning during a spring training game against the Philadelphia Phillies at BayCare Ballpark on March 2, 2025 in Clearwater, Florida.

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Orioles' Mayo disappointed by Triple-A demotion: 'It obviously sucks'

Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman was a late scratch from Tuesday's Tokyo Series ...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a> was a late scratch from Tuesday's Tokyo Series opener against the Chicago Cubs due to left rib discomfort.</p><p>Freeman said postgame that the discomfort is in the same area he injured during the 2024 postseason, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByJackHarris/status/1901988360673206486">Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>Freeman added that this injury is much less severe and that there's a 75% chance he's able to return to the lineup for Wednesday's game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I thought we made the right decision not playing him tonight," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/freddie-freeman-cubs-dodgers-c4b2f41d66039cc3fa6e702d84fa55ca">David Brandt of The Associated Press</a>. "We'll see how he comes in tomorrow. So right now, I'm not too concerned."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2444" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2444">Enrique Hernández</a> replaced Freeman at first base. The Dodgers were also without star shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a>, who was ruled out for both Tokyo Series games as he continues to recover from an illness.</p><p>Freeman also dealt with an ankle injury during the 2024 postseason, which eventually required offseason surgery. The 35-year-old recovered in time to play nine spring training games, including four straight before the Dodgers departed for Japan.</p>

TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 18: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms up on the field prior to the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs at Tokyo Dome on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.

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Dodgers' Freeman misses Tokyo opener with rib discomfort

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

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

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

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Schmidt feels 'really good' despite being scratched with sore shoulder

Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts won't play in either of the club's two games in Tokyo, Japa...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> won't play in either of the club's two games in Tokyo, Japan as he continues to deal with an illness, manager Dave Roberts announced, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByJackHarris/status/1901461293728502097">Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times</a>.</p><p>Roberts added that the Dodgers are considering sending Betts back to the United States early. He's expected to be ready for the club's domestic opener against the Detroit Tigers on March 27.</p><p>Betts has lost almost 15 pounds as a result of the illness, Roberts said, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByJackHarris/status/1901463177717850356">Harris</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old was expected to bat second and play shortstop in a loaded Dodgers lineup in the highly-anticipated series against the Chicago Cubs.</p><p>"When you're dehydrated, that's what opens a person up to soft tissue injuries," Roberts said, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3244199" href="https://thescore.com/news/3244199">The Associated Press</a>. "We're very mindful of that."</p><p>The Dodgers could turn to veteran infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a> to patrol shortstop in Betts' absence. Rojas enjoyed an excellent season for the World Series champions in 2024, registering a 111 wRC+ at the plate with 2.8 fWAR and ranked in the 97th percentile in Baseball Savant's outs above average.</p><p>The Dodgers and Cubs will open up their two-game series at the Tokyo Dome on Tuesday.</p>

TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 15: Mookie Betts #50 of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms-up in the outfield prior to the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Yomiuri Giants at Tokyo Dome on Saturday, March 15, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.

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Betts won't play in Japan series due to illness

Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff wasn't happy with the officiating in his team's 113-107 lo...

<p>Detroit Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff wasn't happy with the officiating in his team's 113-107 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday.</p><p>"I'm disgusted by the way that game was officiated," Bickerstaff said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/BradGalli/status/1901092689782677534">WXYZ's Brad Galli</a>. "The level of disrespect was above and beyond." </p><p>The Pistons were forced to play the fourth quarter without All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96056" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96056">Cade Cunningham</a> after he was ejected late in the third. Cunningham picked up consecutive technical fouls after he appeared to take exception to a loose ball foul called against Pistons forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93867" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93867">Isaiah Stewart</a>. It was the second ejection of Cunningham's career. The Thunder ended up shooting five free throws as a result of the commotion.</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/evky2467aSM?si=q5vENskWA70XXACb" 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>"We deserve a level of respect because we're competing our tails off and bringing something positive to this league," Bickerstaff said. </p><p>The Pistons made a push in the fourth quarter, reducing their 16-point deficit to four with less than two minutes remaining.</p><p>"Our young players are competing their tail off," Bickerstaff said. "The least that they could do is get the same respect that everybody else in this league gets, and get refereed the same way that everybody else in this league gets reffed. And enough is enough of it. What you saw tonight was disgusting. It was a disgusting display of disrespect towards our guys and what we're trying to do."</p><p>The loss was Detroit's second consecutive defeat. The Pistons sit in sixth place in the Eastern Conference, 4.5 games clear of the Atlanta Hawks to avoid the play-in tournament.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 15: Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons reacts against referee Brian Forte #45 during the third quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Little Caesars Arena on March 15, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Pistons' Bickerstaff 'disgusted' by officiating in loss to Thunder

New York Knicks All-Star guard Jalen Brunson is expected to be out of action through late March o...

<p>New York Knicks All-Star guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> is expected to be out of action through late March or into early April, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1901070886201160136">ESPN's Shams Charania</a> reports.</p><p>Brunson has been sidelined since he sprained his right ankle March 6 against the Los Angeles Lakers.</p><p>The team initially announced Brunson would be out for at least two weeks after the injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Knicks have posted a 2-1 record in the three games Brunson's been out of the lineup.</p><p>Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau has shifted guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96035" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96035">Miles McBride</a> into the starting lineup in Brunson's absence. McBride is shooting almost 43% from three-point range and is averaging 13 points, six assists, and 2.3 steals per game since moving into the starting five.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - MARCH 4: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks handles the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors on March 4, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Knicks' Brunson out through at least late March

Texas Rangers right-hander Jon Gray has a fractured right wrist, manager Bruce Bochy announced Fr...

<p>Texas Rangers right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4229" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4229">Jon Gray</a> has a fractured right wrist, manager Bruce Bochy announced Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/Evan_P_Grant/status/1900755940460154964?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet">Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News</a>.</p><p>"Not good news," Bochy said. </p><p>Gray was forced to leave Friday's start against the Colorado Rockies after he was struck by a 106.4-mph comebacker off the bat of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12521">Michael Toglia</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/jon-gray-exits-after-being-struck-by-comebacker?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(<em>Video source: MLB.com)</em></p><p>The 33-year-old was expected to begin the regular season in the starting rotation. Gray posted a 5-6 record with a 4.47 ERA and 7.54 K/9 and amassed 1.8 fWAR across 102 2/3 innings in 2024. </p><p>The Rangers announced earlier this week that left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13850" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13850">Cody Bradford</a> will begin the 2025 campaign on the injured list with elbow soreness.</p><p>Texas is expected to start the season with a rotation of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4311" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4311">Jacob deGrom</a>, Gray, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8161" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8161">Tyler Mahle</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2345" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2345">Nathan Eovaldi</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13876" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13876">Jack Leiter</a>.</p>

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 02: Starting pitcher Jon Gray #22 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the first inning of the MLB game at Surprise Stadium on March 02, 2025 in Surprise, Arizona.

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Rangers' Gray has fractured wrist after comebacker 

New York Yankees left-hander Carlos Rodón will start the club's Opening Day game against the Milw...

<p>New York Yankees left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a> will start the club's Opening Day game against the Milwaukee Brewers, manager Aaron Boone announced Friday.</p><p>The start will be Rodón's second career Opening Day assignment after he received the nod for the Chicago White Sox in 2019.</p><p>"Just an honor; I’m excited," Rodón said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/yankees/news/carlos-rodon-yankees-2025-opening-day-starter">MLB.com's Bryan Hoch</a>. "I just want to go out there and win the game. Honestly, it’s just the first game of the season and another baseball game."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Yankees ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> was likely ticketed for his fifth Opening Day start in six years before sustaining a season-ending elbow injury. Cole underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this week.</p><p>Rodón is entering his third season with the Yankees after signing a six-year, $162-million contract. The 32-year-old posted a 19-17 record with a 4.74 ERA and 9.7 K/9 over the past two campaigns.</p><p>Rodón rebounded from a disastrous 2023 campaign, registering 16 wins with a 3.96 ERA and 10 K/9 in 32 starts last season.</p><p>The Yankees are expected to open the regular season with a rotation that includes Rodón, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a> after injuries to Cole and 2024 AL Rookie of the Year <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a>.</p>

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 27: Carlos Rodón #55 of the New York Yankees delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies during a Grapefruit League spring training game at BayCare Ballpark on February 27, 2025 in Clearwater, Florida.

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Yankees turn to Rodón for Opening Day start

The Tampa Bay Rays are exercising their $12-million club option on first baseman Yandy Díaz for t...

<p>The Tampa Bay Rays are exercising their $12-million club option on first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4588" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4588">Yandy Díaz</a> for the 2026 season, the club announced Friday.</p><p>The two sides also added a vesting option to Díaz's contract for the 2027 campaign.</p><p>Díaz inked a three-year, $24-million contract extension with the Rays ahead of the 2023 season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rays acquired Díaz in a three-team trade in 2018. The 33-year-old has been a mainstay for the Rays over the past six seasons, making an All-Star team and winning the AL batting title in 2023.</p><p>Díaz has slashed .289/.374/.440 with 74 home runs, 142 doubles, and 313 RBIs across 666 games as a member of the Rays.</p><p>The veteran's 707 hits since the start of the 2019 campaign rank 13th among all American League hitters over that span.</p>

PORT CHARLOTTE, FL - MARCH 13: Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Díaz (2) singles to right field to drive in two runs in the fourth inning during an MLB Spring Training baseball game against the Washington Nationals on March 13, 2025 at Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, Florida.

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Rays pick up $12M option on Díaz for 2026

New York Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton is dealing with a chronic calf issue in addition to in...

<p>New York Yankees slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a> is dealing with a chronic calf issue in addition to injuries to both of his elbows, <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/03/13/sports/giancarlo-stantons-injury-woes-not-limited-to-his-elbows/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>The elbow injuries are the more concerning issue, although Heyman reported hearing some optimism that Stanton might be able to return to action by Memorial Day (May 26).</p><p>Stanton navigated calf injuries in 2019, 2020, and 2022. The 35-year-old has not yet participated in baseball activities this spring because of severe injuries with both elbows. Stanton <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3236653" href="https://thescore.com/news/3236653">acknowledged</a> last week that he would miss the entire 2025 season if he needs to undergo surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The five-time All-Star has missed extensive time because of injuries throughout his MLB career. He hasn't appeared in more than 114 games in a season since 2021.</p><p>The injuries have forced Stanton into a full-time DH role. He's made a combined 97 outfield appearances since 2019 and didn't log a single game in the outfield last season.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - MARCH 7: Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on March 7, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Report: Stanton has chronic calf issue in addition to elbow injuries

Naoya Inoue will defend his undisputed junior featherweight championship against Ramon Cardenas o...

<p>Naoya Inoue will defend his undisputed junior featherweight championship against Ramon Cardenas on May 4 in Las Vegas.</p><p>The bout will mark Inoue's first fight in the United States since a third-round victory over Michael Dasmarinas in June 2021. His past eight fights have taken place in his native Japan.</p><p>Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) has captured all four titles at 118 and 122 pounds, developing into one of the sport's best pound-for-pound fighters.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 31-year-old defeated Kim Ye-joon via fourth-round knockout to retain his titles in January.</p><p>"I am thankful to the fans in America who have followed my career," Inoue said in a statement, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/44226194/naoya-inoue-fight-ramon-cardenas-las-vegas-4">ESPN's Mike Coppinger</a>. "Fighting at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is another career highlight, and I look forward to putting on a great show for everyone in attendance. Cardenas is a tough opponent who I respect for accepting the fight without hesitation."</p><p>Cardenas (26-1, 14 KOs) has been idle since defeating Bryan Acosta via unanimous decision in February.</p><p>"When the fight was offered, I instantly accepted," Cardenas said. "I wouldn't say it's a lottery ticket, but you can't turn it down if you get a chance at the undisputed title. This is the opportunity of a lifetime."</p><p>The matchup will take place on the same weekend as Canelo Álvarez's title defense against William Scull and a star-studded card set for Times Square in New York City.</p>

Japan's Naoya Inoue celebrates his victory against South Korea's Kim Ye-joon during their world super-bantamweight title boxing bout in Tokyo on January 24, 2025.

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Inoue returning to United States to defend title vs. Cardenas

Kansas City Royals star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was forced to leave Wednesday's game after he wa...

<p>Kansas City Royals star shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12336" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12336">Bobby Witt Jr.</a> was forced to leave Wednesday's game after he was hit by a pitch on the left forearm.</p><p>The Royals announced Witt has a left forearm contusion, and X-rays were negative for a fracture. He will continue to be evaluated.</p><p>The injury occurred in the fifth inning against the Seattle Mariners after Witt was struck by a 95.9-mph sinker from right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10823" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10823">Andrés Muñoz</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/bobby-witt-jr-exits-game-after-being-hit-in-arm?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(<em>Video source: MLB.com</em>)</p><p>Witt was replaced by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14173">Tyler Tolbert</a>. The 24-year-old finished the game hitless after a pair of at-bats.</p><p>"He said initially that he just lost feeling in his fingers, but he said it was coming back," Royals manager Matt Quatraro said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/bobby-witt-jr-exits-after-being-hit-by-a-pitch">MLB.com's Anne Rogers</a>. "I’m going to assume they’re going to get an X-ray just to make sure. … I can’t speak for what he was feeling other than that he said he couldn’t feel his fingers, but there is a nerve in that area."</p><p>Witt put together the best season of his young career in 2024. He belted 32 home runs with 45 doubles, 11 triples, 31 stolen bases, and 109 RBIs in 161 games as Kansas City qualified for the postseason for the first time since winning the World Series in 2015.</p><p>Witt also led MLB with 211 hits and won his first AL batting title, earned his first All-Star nod, and claimed his first Gold Glove. He finished runner-up to New York Yankees star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> in AL MVP voting.</p>

SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 5: Bobby Witt Jr. #7 of the Kansas City Royals waits for a pitch in the fourth inning during a spring training game against the Seattle Mariners at Surprise Stadium on March 5, 2025 in Surprise, Arizona.

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Royals' Witt avoids serious injury after taking pitch to forearm

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman admitted there isn't much pitching out there as th...

<p>New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman admitted there isn't much pitching out there as the club looks at potentially replacing the void left by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a>'s season-ending injury.</p><p>"We'll just evaluate what's available, and this time of year, very little is available," Cashman said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/brian-cashman-says-yankees-are-unlikely-to-add-pitching-now">MLB.com's Bryan Hoch</a>. "Normally, the more significant opportunities don't exist until the trade deadline."</p><p>Cole will miss the 2025 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. The Yankees will also be without right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a> for at least three months after he sustained a lat injury earlier in the spring.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Yankees are currently expected to begin the regular season with a rotation that includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a>. Veterans <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/158" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/158">Carlos Carrasco</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14074" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14074">Allan Winans</a> are also in the organization to potentially make starts.</p><p>"We'll rely on what we have, and we'll explore what is limited available in the marketplace," Cashman said.</p>

Bronx, N.Y.: New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman at press conference at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York on November 4, 2022.

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Cashman: 'Very little' pitching available after Cole's injury

We've reached the quarter mark of the 2000s, and to celebrate, theScore's MLB editors constructed...

<p><em>We've reached the quarter mark of the 2000s, and to celebrate, theScore's MLB editors constructed each organization's best 26-man roster from the last 25 seasons. We continue with the AL West.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3181581" href="https://thescore.com/news/3181581">AL EAST</a><br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3212406" href="https://thescore.com/news/3212406">AL CENTRAL</a><br><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3212407" href="https://thescore.com/news/3212407">NL EAST</a></strong><br><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3213441" href="https://thescore.com/news/3213441">NL CENTRAL</a></strong><br><strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3211695" href="https://thescore.com/news/3211695">NL WEST</a></strong></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-b80Sp" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/b80Sp/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup " aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iaJOF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iaJOF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="494" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nBUH9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nBUH9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="499" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Mike Trout.</strong> This is the easiest call of any club, as Trout is far and away the best player in franchise history. He's an 11-time All-Star, three-time AL MVP, and is already 28th all time in MLB fWAR.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Best pitcher: Jered Weaver.</strong> The fiery right-hander was a hallmark of consistency over 11 seasons in Anaheim. Weaver made three All-Star appearances and led the AL with 233 strikeouts in 2010. He made at least 30 starts seven times.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Garret Anderson. </strong>The talented outfielder had four straight campaigns of at least 115 RBIs from 2000-03. Anderson also helped the Angels win the 2002 World Series.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Shohei Ohtani.</strong> The Angels stunned the baseball world when they landed the two-way sensation ahead of the 2018 season. Ohtani won a pair of AL MVPs with the club.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Mike Trout. </strong>The Angels watched Trout go from 25th pick in 2009 to one of the best players this century. Trout struggled in a brief stint in 2011 before exploding with 30 home runs and 49 stolen bases the following campaign to win Rookie of the Year.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Kole Calhoun.</strong> The 2015 Gold Glover had a nice eight-year run with the team, collecting 140 homers with a .747 OPS across 966 games. However, it's tough to justify a spot for him over a franchise icon like Tim Salmon.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2PSXj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2PSXj/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oXRsq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oXRsq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="477" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-L29jj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/L29jj/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="549" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Jose Altuve. </strong>The future Hall of Famer can already stake a legitimate claim as the best player in Astros history. Altuve could threaten 3,000 hits, has made nine All-Star Games, and has won seven Silver Sluggers, two World Series, and three batting titles.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Roy Oswalt. </strong>The durable right-hander flew under the radar at times while sharing a rotation with the likes of Clemens and Andy Pettitte. Still, Oswalt was a hallmark of consistency from 2001-2010. He eclipsed 6.0 fWAR four times, threw at least 200 innings on six occasions, and won 143 games over that span.</p><p><strong>Most underrated player: Kyle Tucker. </strong>The emergence of a talented outfielder who could hit for power, steal bases, and play good defense helped the Astros remain relevant in the wake of Springer and Correa departing in free agency.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Justin Verlander. </strong>The Astros acquired Verlander from the Detroit Tigers ahead of the waiver trade deadline in 2017, and he helped the club to a World Series title later that season. Verlander posted a 73-28 record with a 2.71 ERA and added two Cy Youngs (2019, 2022) and another World Series ring to his mantle along the way.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Jose Altuve. </strong>He's been an incredible homegrown success story who signed for a $15,000 bonus at age 16. Altuve has helped the Astros become one of the most consistent franchises over the last decade.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Yuli Gurriel.</strong> The popular first baseman was a productive offensive player throughout his tenure in Houston, hitting .284 with a 111 wRC+ in 801 games. Gurriel also hit over .300 in both of the Astros' World Series runs.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-ICNT8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/ICNT8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-SLcH6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/SLcH6/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="494" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-N3ope" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/N3ope/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="466" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Eric Chavez.</strong> The talented third baseman somehow never made an All-Star appearance. However, he won six Gold Gloves and a Silver Slugger and belted 230 home runs with a .821 OPS across 13 seasons. Chavez was arguably the most consistent player during a great run of Athletics baseball in the early 2000s.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Tim Hudson. </strong>It was a tough call, but Hudson gets the nod over Barry Zito. He had a slight edge in ERA and did a better job limiting walks and home runs.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Matt Olson. </strong>The slugging first baseman hit at least 30 home runs twice in six seasons and finished his tenure in Oakland with 142 long balls, a pair of Gold Gloves, and one All-Star nod.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Khris Davis. </strong>The A's acquired Davis from the Milwaukee Brewers for a modest price in 2016. He proceeded to hit 40-plus home runs in each of the following three campaigns while batting an identical .247 average.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Miguel Tejada. </strong>Outside of Chavez, the development of Tejada was a huge success story. The shortstop won AL MVP in 2002, helping the club win an incredible 20 straight games.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Josh Donaldson. </strong>The Athletics dealt Donaldson to the Toronto Blue Jays after consecutive strong offensive seasons from him. He posted an .840 OPS with 53 home runs and 12.9 fWAR across the 2013 and 2014 campaigns.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5L89j" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5L89j/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-J4ru5" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/J4ru5/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="477" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1DMLc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1DMLc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="466" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Ichiro Suzuki. </strong>The Japanese sensation was a deserving first-ballot Hall of Famer. Suzuki won MVP and Rookie of the Year during a special 2001 campaign, and he eclipsed the 200-hit plateau in each of the first 10 seasons of his career.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Félix Hernández. </strong>The right-hander spent his entire 15-year career in Seattle and won the 2010 Cy Young. Hernández also added six All-Star nods and a pair of AL ERA titles. "King Felix" is one of the most beloved Mariners ever.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Kyle Seager. </strong>Unfortunately, Seager's career overlapped with Seattle's long run without tasting postseason baseball. He was a linchpin at third base for the Mariners from 2011-21, hitting 242 home runs with one All-Star appearance and a Gold Glove nod in 2014.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Bret Boone. </strong>Seattle reunited with Boone in free agency ahead of the 2001 campaign. He immediately paid dividends, finishing third in MVP voting and helping the club to an incredible 116-46 record.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Félix Hernández. </strong>The Mariners managed to land the Venezuelan as an international free agent in 2002. Hernández is the club's all-time leader in wins, strikeouts, and innings pitched.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: J.P. Crawford. </strong>Seattle's current shortstop owns some strong moments in six years with the team, but A-Rod's brilliance in just one season (2000) is still too much to overlook.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-27kCy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/27kCy/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Lineup" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-9U4Vz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/9U4Vz/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="681" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Pitching staff" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-G3l80" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/G3l80/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="483" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p><strong>Most important player: Adrian Beltre. </strong>The Hall of Fame third baseman became a legend in Texas. Beltre reached 3,000 hits and finished with 199 home runs, three Gold Gloves, and two Platinum Gloves during eight seasons with the team.</p><p><strong>Best pitcher: Yu Darvish.</strong> The Japanese sensation debuted with a lot of hype in 2012. Darvish earned All-Star nods in each of his first three campaigns and led the majors with 277 strikeouts in 2013 to finish runner-up in AL Cy Young voting.</p><p><strong>Most underrated: Michael Young. </strong>The versatile infielder was a hitting machine. Young led the league in total hits twice and made seven All-Star appearances with Texas. His 2,230 hits as a Ranger are the most in franchise history and almost 500 more than second place.</p><p><strong>Best acquisition: Josh Hamilton. </strong>The Rangers swung a trade to acquire Hamilton from the Cincinnati Reds ahead of the 2008 season. He led the AL with 130 RBIs that first campaign and later won AL MVP in 2010 after topping the league in batting average and OPS.</p><p><strong>Best homegrown player: Ian Kinsler. </strong>The Rangers found a gem when they drafted Kinsler in the 17th round (496th overall) in 2003. He turned into the best second baseman in team history. Kinsler was named an All-Star four times and was an explosive table-setter atop a potent Rangers lineup.</p><p><strong>Toughest omission: Marcus Semien. </strong>The veteran infielder helped Texas win its first World Series title in 2023 and ranks inside the top 10 among position players in fWAR for the franchise since 2000.</p>

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