Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto hopes he'll only miss one game after being hit by a f...

Philadelphia Phillies catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3087" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3087">J.T. Realmuto</a> hopes he'll only miss one game after being hit by a foul ball late in Wednesday's contest versus the Toronto Blue Jays."Still intact," Realmuto said Thursday after being evaluated, according to <a href="https://x.com/MattGelb/status/1930665034989875494">The Athletic's Matt Gelb</a>.Realmuto left the game after appearing to take a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> foul tip in the groin area at the start of the ninth inning. He was down for a few minutes and eventually needed help leaving the field. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10155" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10155">Rafael Marchán</a> finished the contest, which the Phillies lost 2-1, behind the plate.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/jordan-romano-foul-to-bo-bichette?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video source: MLB.com)Realmuto, 34, is off to a slow start at the plate, hitting .226/.297/.358 with five homers and 22 RBIs through 51 games.If Realmuto needs some extra recovery time, Marchán would likely take over full-time catching duties until he returns. Garrett Stubbs, the only other catcher on Philadelphia's 40-man roster, is playing in Triple-A.

DENVER, CO - MAY 19: Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) looks on during a manager's challenge review during a game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on May 19, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Realmuto hopes to only miss 1 game after foul ball to groin area

New York Yankees closer Luke Weaver is expected to be placed on the 15-day injured list with a ha...

New York Yankees closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5394" href="/mlb/players/5394">Luke Weaver</a> is expected to be placed on the 15-day injured list with a hamstring injury, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1929728099882586614">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.An exact timetable for his return won't be known until Tuesday. Weaver could be sidelined for four-to-six weeks depending on the results of his MRI, Passan reports.Weaver injured his hamstring while warming up in the bullpen late in Sunday's 7-3 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Manager Aaron Boone had been preparing to call on the right-hander for the ninth inning before the injury. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8824" href="/mlb/players/8824">Tim Hill</a> ended up closing out the victory in a non-save situation.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He felt something when he had finished warming up, and then when he went to stretch, he felt something in the middle of his hammy," Boone said after Sunday's game, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/yankees-jasson-dominguez-luke-weaver-injury-updates">Bryan Hoch of MLB.com</a>.Weaver is enjoying another dominant season anchoring New York's bullpen. He's put up a 1.05 ERA and 0.70 WHIP with 24 strikeouts and eight saves over 24 appearances. The 31-year-old broke out as a dominant reliever last year, when he tallied 103 Ks over 84 innings for the 2024 AL champions.While he's sidelined, Yankees manager Aaron Boone told <a href="https://x.com/TalkinYanks/status/1929902900311917047">Talkin' Yanks</a> former NL Reliever of the Year Devin Williams will get most of the closing opportunities. Williams, one of New York's marquee offseason acquisitions, lost his closer's job to Weaver in April during a dismal stretch to start the season. He's fared better since moving to a set-up role but still owns a 6.23 ERA with a 5.0 BB/9 rate.Hill, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9004" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9004">Mark Leiter Jr.</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14097" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14097">Fernando Cruz</a>, who could return from the IL as soon as Tuesday, could also be options to close games for the Yankees going forward.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 31: Luke Weaver #30 of the New York Yankees pitches during an 18-2 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on May 31, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Report: Yankees' Weaver could miss 4-6 weeks with hamstring injury

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

It was a first inning to forget for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Brandon Pfaadt.  The right-hande...

It was a first inning to forget for the Arizona Diamondbacks and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14055" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14055">Brandon Pfaadt</a>.The right-hander tied a major-league record by surrendering eight earned runs without recording an out in a disastrous start Saturday against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field. Washington ultimately scored 10 runs in the top of the first, nine of which crossed the plate before the Diamondbacks recorded an out.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
the washington nationals just scored 9 runs without recording an out if you even care <a href="https://t.co/qqC2g6mVCq">pic.twitter.com/qqC2g6mVCq</a>— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nationals/status/1929004253009305852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Pfaadt allowed the first eight Nationals hitters to reach base before being removed by manager Torey Lovullo after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13646">José Tena</a>'s RBI double brought in the seventh run. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16127" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16127">Daylen Lile</a> then drove Tena home with the eighth run charged to Pfaadt on an RBI double off reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15439" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15439">Scott McGough</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The outing marks just the eighth time a starting pitcher has given up eight runs without recording an out and the first since New York Yankees left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a> in September 2023, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/IXxei">Stathead</a>. Pfaadt is the seventh individual pitcher to accomplish the dubious feat, with the Cincinnati Reds' Paul Wilson doing it twice.All eight runs Pfaadt allowed were earned, making him just the fourth starter to get charged with that many without recording an out, joining Rodón, Wilson, and Oakland's Blake Stein."What happened today was unacceptable," Pfaadt said, according to <a href="https://arizonasports.com/mlb/arizona-diamondbacks/pfaadt-nats/3585703/">Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports</a>.Pfaadt's final line goes into the books as eight earned runs on six hits and two batters hit by pitch. The poor performance raised his ERA by over a full run, going from 3.90 to 5.05.The Nationals didn't stop after Pfaadt left. McGough gave up two more earned runs before recording an out to make it 9-0. Washington's nine runs before the first out tied the NL record set by the Philadelphia Phillies on <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/PHI/PHI194808130.shtml">Aug. 13, 1948</a>, and came one shy of the MLB record, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1929007689943728381">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>.McGough finally retired the Nationals when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9567" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9567">Keibert Ruiz</a> popped out to third, with the D-Backs trailing 10-0. He returned to the mound in the top of the second and allowed another run before hitting the showers.All told, Washington sent 16 men to the plate during the top of the first, reaching base on nine hits, one walk, and three hit-by-pitches. Fourteen of the 16 Nats hitters reached base in the first, and all nine members of their lineup scored at least once. They also managed to do all of this without hitting a home run.The Nationals also became the second team in the expansion era (since 1961) to open a game with 11 consecutive hitters reaching base safely, according to <a href="https://x.com/MarkZuckerman/status/1929010849106243645">MASN's Mark Zuckerman</a>. The last club to do that was the Boston Red Sox on June 27, 2003, against Florida.Shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12501" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12501">CJ Abrams</a>, meanwhile, became just the ninth player in history to reach base via hit-by-pitch twice in the same inning, according to <a href="https://www.baseball-almanac.com/recbooks/rb_hbp2.shtml">Baseball Almanac</a>. Abrams joins the Orioles' Brady Anderson in 1999 as the only players to be plunked twice in the first inning of a game.The D-Backs did their best to make a game of it, scoring seven unanswered runs over the final seven innings. But Washington's bullpen didn't break, as the Nats held on for an 11-7 win to improve to 28-30 on the season.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MAY 31: Nathaniel Lowe #33 of the Washington Nationals reacts after hitting an RBI double during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on May 31, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Nats score 10 in 1st as D-Backs' Pfaadt ties dubious record

Philadelphia Phillies starter Jesús Luzardo made the wrong kind of history during a woeful start ...

Philadelphia Phillies starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8272">Jesús Luzardo</a> made the wrong kind of history during a woeful start against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday.Luzardo, who entered the day with the highest fWAR (2.4) among qualified National League pitchers, was tagged for 12 earned runs on 12 hits over just 3 1/3 innings. Eight of the runs he allowed came in the fourth inning before he was mercifully removed.He struck out four during the brief outing but also walked three and made a throwing error that allowed a run to score. Former Phillies slugger Rhys Hoskins crushed two homers off the left-hander.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 12 earned runs allowed are the most surrendered in one game by a Phillies pitcher since Al Jurisich gave up a franchise record-tying 14 to the New York Giants on June 28, 1947 at the Polo Grounds, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/64n5S">Stathead</a>.He's also just the <a href="http://stathead.com/tiny/3fo2D">20th pitcher</a> of the modern era (since 1901), and only the ninth starter, to allow 12 ER in an outing of four innings or less. Luzardo repeated a dubious feat accomplished by Colorado's Bradley Blalock earlier this month in a 21-0 Rockies loss.The dismal outing raised Luzardo's ERA by over a full run, from 2.15 - which ranked second in the NL entering Saturday - to 3.45, while his WHIP spiked from 1.18 to 1.34. He had not allowed more than three earned runs in any of his 11 previous starts this season. Luzardo's previous career high for runs allowed in a start was nine, set last year while he was with the Miami Marlins.The Brewers added five more runs off Philadelphia's bullpen in the sixth inning to cruise to their sixth straight win with a 17-7 rout.Philadelphia, meanwhile, has lost four of six and suddenly finds itself tied with the Mets atop the NL East after New York defeated Colorado.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 31: Jesús Luzardo #44 of the Philadelphia Phillies delivers a pitch in the first inning during a game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Citizens Bank Park on May 31, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Phillies' Luzardo shelled for 12 ER during dismal start vs. Brewers

Juan Soto's New York Mets career hasn't gotten off to the start that anyone would have hoped, but...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>'s New York Mets career hasn't gotten off to the start that anyone would have hoped, but the superstar is continuing to stay even-keeled through his struggles.Despite mounting questions from fans about when he'll get going, Soto insisted Friday that he isn't feeling overwhelmed by expectations."I don't say any pressure. I'll say it's more about coming through for the team," Soto said after the Mets' 4-2 win over the Colorado Rockies, according to <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/juan-soto-mets-breaks-hitless-streak-defensive-play-rockies">SNY's Phillip Martinez</a>. "Everybody is hoping I come through, and I want to hit for the team either way. Get some wins. I know I've been struggling, and I haven't been there for the team, but I will be."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Soto's slash line is at a career-worst .229/.355/.400 after 56 games with the Mets. He's only hit eight home runs and recorded 19 extra-base hits but has taken as many walks (42) as he has strikeouts.Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns attributed part of Soto's issues to the slugger trying to shoulder too much of the team's load under the weight of his record $765-million contract."Do I think he's trying to do a little bit too much right now? Yeah, I think he's probably trying to do a little bit too much right now. And that is natural for a player who cares," Stearns said before Friday's game, according to <a href="https://x.com/AnthonyDiComo/status/1928547108178579633">Anthony DiComo of MLB.com</a>.Soto finally seemed to find a groove Friday. The 26-year-old snapped an 0-for-17 skid by lacing an RBI double in the third inning and went 2-for-4 in the win. While that might not get him completely out of the doldrums, Soto appeared hopeful that Friday's outburst was a good sign for the long term."It's a matter of time (before I have more of these games)," he said. "We don't know when it's going to come through. Just have to keep working on it."

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 30: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets celebrates after hitting a double and driving in a run against the Colorado Rockies in the third inning against the Colorado Rockies during their game at Citi Field on May 30, 2025 in New York City.

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Soto staying patient amid struggles: 'I will be' there to lift Mets soon

Another Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher is headed to the operating room.  Reliever Evan Phillips will...

Another Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher is headed to the operating room.Reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8784" href="/mlb/players/8784">Evan Phillips</a> will undergo Tommy John surgery June 4 to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, manager Dave Roberts announced Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/DodgerInsider/status/1928590493367046575">Dodger Insider</a>.Roberts said Phillips tried playing catch again within the last couple days, but the throwing session "didn't go well," per <a href="https://x.com/FabianArdaya/status/1928590435162677707">Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The typical rehab time following Tommy John surgery is between 12 and 18 months. This means Phillips might miss the entire 2026 campaign in addition to the rest of this year. Next season will mark his final year of arbitration eligibility before reaching free agency.Phillips was initially placed on the 15-day injured list May 7 with right forearm discomfort. At the time, the Dodgers were optimistic about his prognosis, with Roberts even noting the right-hander wouldn't need an MRI. However, Phillips did end up getting scans of his elbow a few days later.The Dodgers had moved Phillips to the 60-day IL on Thursday following the acquisition of former All-Star reliever Alexis Díaz.Phillips, 30, morphed into a reliable back-end reliever after the Dodgers claimed him off waivers from Tampa Bay in 2021. Since arriving in L.A., he owns a 2.22 ERA and 0.94 WHIP with 221 strikeouts and 45 saves over 201 regular-season appearances. The Maryland native didn't allow a run in 6 2/3 innings during the Dodgers' run to a World Series title last October.His injury continues a troubling pattern of elbow issues for Dodgers pitchers. Phillips is the team's fourth pitcher to need Tommy John surgery since the start of 2024, joining <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16566">Kyle Hurt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18587" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18587">River Ryan</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17184">Emmet Sheehan</a>. In 2023, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9723" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9723">Tony Gonsolin</a> also underwent Tommy John, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9566">Dustin May</a> needed surgery to repair a torn flexor tendon.L.A. currently has 14 pitchers - seven starters and seven relievers - on the IL. Other key arms missing from the bullpen include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3013" href="/mlb/players/3013">Blake Treinen</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3735" href="/mlb/players/3735">Kirby Yates</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8274" href="/mlb/players/8274">Michael Kopech</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5525">Tanner Scott</a> has been the Dodgers' closer for much of this month and should continue to get ninth-inning opportunities going forward. Díaz, who was optioned to the minor leagues after being acquired from the Cincinnati Reds, could also be an option at some point.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 28: Evan Phillips #59 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws a pitch in the eighth inning during a game against the Miami Marlins at Dodger Stadium on April 28, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Dodgers' Phillips to undergo Tommy John surgery

Atlanta Braves starting pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver needs surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ...

Atlanta Braves starting pitcher AJ Smith-Shawver needs surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, manager Brian Snitker announced Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/grantmcauley/status/1928558119690314089">Grant McAuley of "92.9 The Game."</a>Smith-Shawver is undergoing additional testing to determine what kind of ligament repair - either Tommy John surgery or an internal brace procedure - he'll need. If he needs Tommy John surgery, it's possible he could miss most or all of 2026 in addition to the remainder of this year.The Braves initially placed Smith-Shawver on the 15-day injured list Thursday, then transferred him to the 60-day IL earlier Friday with what they termed a strained right elbow.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He sustained the injury in the third inning of the first game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Philadelphia Phillies. Moments after being hit in the ankle by a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12413" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12413">Bryson Stott</a> line drive, Smith-Shawver shook out his elbow after throwing a pitch to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4814" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4814">Trea Turner</a>. He got Turner to fly out but then left the game with a trainer.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/trea-turner-flies-out-to-left-fielder-eli-white?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video source: MLB.com)Following the Braves' 5-4 loss, Braves manager Brian Snitker told reporters that Smith-Shawver felt a "pop" in his elbow during the Turner at-bat. The 22-year-old flew back to Atlanta for an MRI, which confirmed the tear."Anytime you hear those words, when they describe soreness and 'I felt something pop,' then that's usually not real good," Snitker said Thursday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6391849/2025/05/29/braves-aj-smith-shawver-elbow-pop-mri/">David O'Brien of The Athletic</a>. "But we've got to look at it first."Smith-Shawver put up a 3.86 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with 42 strikeouts and 21 walks over nine starts for Atlanta this season.His long-term absence is a devastating blow to a Braves rotation that's been inconsistent for much of this year. Atlanta has only received three starts from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13620" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13620">Spencer Strider</a> and one from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5352" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5352">Reynaldo López</a> as a result of their own injury issues.It's not fully clear who will replace Smith-Shawver in the rotation long term. Bryce Elder, who's pitching at Triple-A Gwinnett, will be recalled ahead of Sunday's game against the Boston Red Sox, Snitker said, according to McAuley.Atlanta initially recalled right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17478" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17478">Michael Petersen</a> from Triple-A after placing Smith-Shawver on the IL but optioned Petersen back to Gwinnett on Friday. Left-hander Dylan Dodd, who made his MLB debut as the 27th man Thursday night, was recalled and will be in the bullpen for Friday's game.The Braves also placed outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12532" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12532">Stuart Fairchild</a> on the 10-day IL with a dislocated pinky finger, and they selected newly signed outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13855" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13855">José Azocar</a>. Smith-Shawver's move to the 60-day IL opened Azocar's 40-man roster spot.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MAY 29: AJ Smith-Shawver #32 of the Atlanta Braves leaves the mound in the third inning during the game between the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Thursday, May 29, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Braves' Smith-Shawver needs surgery to repair torn UCL

The Los Angeles Angels activated star outfielder Mike Trout from the 10-day injured list ahead of...

The Los Angeles Angels activated star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a> from the 10-day injured list ahead of Friday's game against the Cleveland Guardians, the team announced.Los Angeles optioned outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14270" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14270">Matthew Lugo</a> to Triple-A Salt Lake on Thursday to clear an active roster spot for Trout's return.Trout has been sidelined since May 2 because of a bone bruise in his left knee. He was originally injured while trying to beat out a ground ball during the Angels' April 30 game in Seattle.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 33-year-old has been working his way back into game shape in recent days. He ran the bases Wednesday more aggressively than in previous days and faced a minor-league pitcher at Angel Stadium, according to <a href="https://x.com/JeffFletcherOCR/status/1927843310644679020">Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register</a>.Injuries have ravaged the three-time AL MVP over the last several years. Trout hasn't appeared in more than 130 games in a single campaign since 2019 and missed most of 2024 after undergoing two knee surgeries to repair a torn left meniscus. This season, the Angels moved him to right field from his longtime position of center in an attempt to keep him healthy.Before his latest injury, Trout hit .179/.264/.462 with nine homers and 18 RBIs over 29 games.The Halos have managed a solid May without their superstar, going 13-13 so far. However, since reeling off eight straight wins earlier in the month - a run that included a sweep of the rival Los Angeles Dodgers - they've come back to Earth and lost five straight contests.

SEATTLE, WA - APRIL 29: Mike Trout #27 of the Los Angeles Angels smiles during the game between the Los Angeles Angels and the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

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Angels activate Trout from IL

Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred explained his decision to reinstate Pete Rose and ...

Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred explained his decision to reinstate Pete Rose and other deceased ex-players from baseball's permanently ineligible list.In the specific case of Rose, who died in September, Manfred felt that reinstating him following his death was in line with the original deal baseball's hits king made with MLB in 1989."I would say three things," Manfred said Thursday during an appearance on "<a href="https://x.com/CBSMornings/status/1928078846294683840">CBS Mornings</a>." "No. 1: Our permanently ineligible list is effectively a ban on working in the game. Just as a matter of logic. There's no reason to have a person who has passed away still on that list. No. 2: Pete Rose is a part of the history of our game. Every other player, including 'Shoeless' Joe Jackson, has been considered by the Hall of Fame, and they've made a decision. I saw no reason to leave Pete Rose out there as one of one, no consideration.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"And then, last, I think what people don't realize is Pete Rose wasn't disciplined by (former) commissioner (Bart) Giamatti. He entered into a settlement agreement with the league. At the time they entered into that settlement, he went on the permanently ineligible list knowing that the rules allowed the Hall of Fame to consider him. Commissioner Giamatti went out, had a press conference the day of the settlement, and he was asked about the Hall of Fame, and he said this settlement should have nothing to do with the Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame should consider Pete Rose under its existing rules. So, I see the decision as baseball living up to the deal that they originally made with Pete Rose."Manfred acknowledged that the decision to restore the eligibility of Rose and others wasn't an easy one for him to make, even if he felt it was ultimately the right choice."Yeah, it's a difficult decision because people are passionate about issues like this," Manfred said. "When you come up the side of the business that I came up, living up to your agreements is a really important thing and this was overdue in my opinion."Rose was placed on the permanently ineligible list in 1989 after he was found to have bet on baseball games while managing the Cincinnati Reds. The Hall of Fame, an independent entity that maintains a close relationship with MLB, chose to bar those on the ineligible list from appearing on its ballots two years later.Manfred <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3285407" href="https://thescore.com/news/3285407">chose to restore</a> the eligibility of Rose, Jackson, and several others who have long since died, earlier this month. He ruled that placement on the list ends after a player dies. The decision potentially opened the door for Rose to appear on a Hall of Fame ballot for the first time. The Hall said all players removed from the list may be considered for enshrinement in the future.Rose's first year of eligibility for Cooperstown would've been in 1992, but he never officially appeared on a ballot. He received a smattering of write-in votes from 1992-94. By contrast, Jackson - one of eight players banned for life in 1921 for accepting money to fix the 1919 World Series - appeared on Hall of Fame ballots sporadically in the 1930s and 1940s, decades before the Hall changed its rules.The earliest Rose, Jackson, and others can appear on a ballot will be in December 2027 as part of the Classic Baseball Era Committee ballot. At that time, a historical committee will create an eight-person ballot for consideration as part of the Class of 2028.Rose collected an MLB-record 4,256 hits over 24 seasons with the Reds, Philadelphia Phillies, and Montreal Expos. The 1973 NL MVP remains the league's all-time leader in games played (3,562), plate appearances (15,890), and at-bats (14,053).

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 11: Rob Manfred, Commissioner, Major League Baseball speaks onstage during the Growing the Game panel, at the Fortune Global Forum on November 11, 2024 in New York City.

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Manfred: Reinstating Pete Rose, other banned players was 'overdue'

The two-month mark of the MLB season is usually when the contenders begin to separate from the pr...

The two-month mark of the MLB season is usually when the contenders begin to separate from the pretenders, and most of those early mirages fade away for good. However, some of those surprises are very real from a team and individual standpoint. Let's look at 10 of the biggest shocks from the first two months of the 2025 campaign.<h3>Aaron Judge</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786637/cropped_GettyImages-2215603740.jpg?ts=1747796736" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786637/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215603740.jpg?ts=1747796736 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786637/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215603740.jpg?ts=1747796736 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786637/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215603740.jpg?ts=1747796736 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786637/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215603740.jpg?ts=1747796736 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786637/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215603740.jpg?ts=1747796736 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> New York Yankees / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Judge being great isn't a surprise. It's how great he's been that's the shocker. Even the most optimistic fans couldn't have predicted the reigning AL MVP flirting with .400 this late into the season. He's currently hitting .398 and was above the magic mark as recently as May 21. Judge also tops the majors in all four slash categories (.398/.492/.756/1.248), plus leads the AL in homers (18) and hits (80). Remarkably, he's on pace to shatter Babe Ruth's single-season record of 457 total bases, untouched since 1921. Judge is one homer and two RBIs short of leading all three Triple Crown categories.<h3>St. Louis Cardinals </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785338/cropped_GettyImages-2214216055.jpg?ts=1747100886" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785338/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214216055.jpg?ts=1747100886 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785338/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214216055.jpg?ts=1747100886 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785338/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214216055.jpg?ts=1747100886 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785338/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214216055.jpg?ts=1747100886 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785338/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214216055.jpg?ts=1747100886 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Left for dead by most before the campaign started, Oliver Marmol's Cardinals have defied the odds and sit one game out of a wild-card spot. Despite not having a single player with 10 home runs, St. Louis' plus-40 run differential helps confirm that the club isn't going away any time soon. NL hits leader Brendan Donovan and catcher Iván Herrera are leading a revitalized offense, while Matthew Liberatore is finally realizing his potential as an ace by authoring a quietly stellar breakout season. Not bad for a team that was actively trying to start a rebuild in January.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>AL Divisional power</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787340/cropped_GettyImages-2216036700.jpg?ts=1748275656" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787340/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216036700.jpg?ts=1748275656 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787340/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216036700.jpg?ts=1748275656 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787340/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216036700.jpg?ts=1748275656 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787340/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216036700.jpg?ts=1748275656 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787340/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216036700.jpg?ts=1748275656 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Monica Bradburn / Major League Baseball / Getty</figcaption></figure>The balance of power has shifted dramatically in the American League. If the season ended today, three of the five AL Central teams - the division widely pegged to be baseball's worst - would make the playoffs. This isn't a case of beating up on the White Sox, either. The Tigers, last year's Cinderella story, own the AL's best record. The Twins clawed back into the race with a 16-6 May, highlighted by a 13-game winning streak. They're tied with Cleveland for the top AL wild-card spot, with the Royals one percentage point behind the Houston Astros for the No. 6 seed. By contrast, the juggernaut AL East has mostly fallen off a cliff. Outside of the 33-20 Yankees, only one of the other squads - the Tampa Bay Rays - are above .500. Injuries and inconsistency - and sometimes downright poor play - have left the division's other four teams barely clinging to relevancy.<h3>Nathan Eovaldi</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785162/cropped_GettyImages-2214008251.jpg?ts=1746993588" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785162/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214008251.jpg?ts=1746993588 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785162/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214008251.jpg?ts=1746993588 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785162/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214008251.jpg?ts=1746993588 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785162/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214008251.jpg?ts=1746993588 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785162/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214008251.jpg?ts=1746993588 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Duane Burleson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The 35-year-old has turned back the clock with a fantastic start that has him in the thick of the AL Cy Young conversation. Eovaldi owns the Junior Circuit's lowest WHIP, is tied for fourth in fWAR, sits third in ERA, and has thrown one shutout. He's also in the top 10 in several other important categories. His 9.5 K/9 marks his best rate since 2021, when he finished fourth in AL Cy Young voting. Long considered a good pitcher but hardly an ace, especially in a rotation featuring names like Jacob deGrom, Eovaldi is pitching like a frontline starter.<h3>Baltimore Orioles</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786191/cropped_GettyImages-2215620039.jpg?ts=1747525142" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786191/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215620039.jpg?ts=1747525142 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786191/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215620039.jpg?ts=1747525142 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786191/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215620039.jpg?ts=1747525142 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786191/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215620039.jpg?ts=1747525142 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786191/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215620039.jpg?ts=1747525142 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Mitchell Layton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>A team many picked to win its division finds itself with the AL's second-worst record and a managerial firing in the books. Plagued by a listless offense and a pitching staff in shambles, the Orioles have been a massive disappointment this year. The numbers paint a grim picture: Baltimore ranks 25th in runs scored, 20th in OPS, and owns a league-worst minus-92 run differential. But as bad as the bats have been, the pitching has been even rougher. The Orioles' 5.47 ERA and .272 opponent average are worst in the AL - only the Rockies have a higher team ERA. They've also allowed an MLB-high 84 home runs. Tomoyuki Sugano is their only starter with an ERA below 4.00, while free-agent addition Charlie Morton has morphed almost overnight from a helpful starter to arguably one of baseball's most inefficient arms. The depth of Baltimore's collapse has been so stark that it might be the most shocking development of the entire season thus far.<h3>Báez's renaissance</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785557/cropped_GettyImages-2214381982.jpg?ts=1747231380" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785557/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214381982.jpg?ts=1747231380 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785557/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214381982.jpg?ts=1747231380 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785557/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214381982.jpg?ts=1747231380 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785557/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214381982.jpg?ts=1747231380 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/785557/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214381982.jpg?ts=1747231380 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Four years into what's been a disastrous contract, the Tigers are finally getting some production out of Javier Báez in ways they couldn't have imagined. The former Gold Glove shortstop easily transitioned to center field, making several highlight-reel plays at his new position and stabilizing an area of need for Detroit. He's also started hitting again, as his .286/.321/.468 slash line is by far his best since 2021. And he seems to have rediscovered the energy and flair that made him a fan favorite in Chicago. It's only May, and Báez may have already clinched AL Comeback Player of the Year honors. Who saw that coming? Certainly not the Tigers.<h3>Atlanta Braves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778658/cropped_GettyImages-2207447502.jpg?ts=1743686215" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778658/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207447502.jpg?ts=1743686215 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778658/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207447502.jpg?ts=1743686215 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778658/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207447502.jpg?ts=1743686215 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778658/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207447502.jpg?ts=1743686215 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778658/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207447502.jpg?ts=1743686215 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Orlando Ramirez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Here's another team that entered the season among the most popular playoff picks and has instead fallen flat. The Braves dug themselves a massive hole early with an 0-7 start, made worse by losing top offseason addition Jurickson Profar to an 80-game PED suspension during the slide. Ace Spencer Strider returned from elbow surgery in April, only to immediately get hurt again. Atlanta's situation isn't as bad as Baltimore's, but it's far from ideal. The Braves clawed back to within .500 range, and with Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. healthy again, there's optimism. However, history isn't on their side. No club has ever reached October after starting a year 0-7. This isn't where anybody expected Atlanta to be.<h3>Colorado Rockies</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786911/cropped_GettyImages-2215569612.jpg?ts=1747950842" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786911/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215569612.jpg?ts=1747950842 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786911/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215569612.jpg?ts=1747950842 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786911/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215569612.jpg?ts=1747950842 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786911/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215569612.jpg?ts=1747950842 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786911/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215569612.jpg?ts=1747950842 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>The 2025 Rockies are the inverse of Judge: it's not that they're bad, it's how bad they are. Colorado's 8-42 start marks the worst record through the first 50 contests of a campaign since the 1895 Louisville Colonels. The team sits dead last in almost every meaningful statistic on both sides of the ball and has already endured three separate eight-game losing streaks. The Rockies have won consecutive outings just once and are still looking for their first series victory. They've also been shut out eight times, including a historic 21-0 drubbing that led to manager Bud Black's firing. The change hasn't helped, as they're 2-12 under interim skipper Warren Schaeffer. Colorado's on pace to finish with 135 losses, which would surpass the 1899 Cleveland Spiders' single-season record.<h3>Mets starting pitching</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787341/cropped_GettyImages-2216413189.jpg?ts=1748276022" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787341/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216413189.jpg?ts=1748276022 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787341/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216413189.jpg?ts=1748276022 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787341/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216413189.jpg?ts=1748276022 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787341/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216413189.jpg?ts=1748276022 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787341/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216413189.jpg?ts=1748276022 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Evan Yu / Major League Baseball / Getty</figcaption></figure>The rotation was supposed to be the Mets' undoing. Instead, it's been the reason New York has kept pace with the Phillies in the NL East. Even without Sean Manaea, Frankie Montas, and Paul Blackburn, the Mets' starters boast MLB's lowest ERA (2.84) and have surrendered the fewest homers (21) of any rotation. David Peterson and Griffin Canning have been revelations, while converted reliever Clay Holmes has seamlessly transitioned to a starting role. Meanwhile, Kodai Senga has bounced back from missing most of last season to post an NL-best 1.46 ERA. This rotation is serving notice to the rest of the NL that the Mets aren't to be taken lightly.<h3>Pete Crow-Armstrong</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784146/cropped_GettyImages-2213262421.jpg?ts=1746459037" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784146/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213262421.jpg?ts=1746459037 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784146/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213262421.jpg?ts=1746459037 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784146/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213262421.jpg?ts=1746459037 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784146/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213262421.jpg?ts=1746459037 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784146/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213262421.jpg?ts=1746459037 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>There was always a ton of hype around Crow-Armstrong as a prospect, but even the most optimistic Cubs fans likely didn't see this coming. The 23-year-old leads the NL in fWAR (3.1), trailing only Aaron Judge across all of baseball. With 14 homers and 14 steals already in the bag, Crow-Armstrong is flying toward the Cubs' first 30-30 season since Sammy Sosa in 1995 - and a 40-40 campaign might not be out of the question. He's also playing elite defense: his nine outs above average lead all center fielders, and he ranks in the 94th percentile for arm strength. The sky seems to be the limit for Crow-Armstrong and his NL Central-leading Cubs.

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MLB's 10 biggest surprises 2 months into season

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This was Tarik Skubal's masterpiece.  The Detroit Tigers ace and reigning AL Cy Young winner turn...

This was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>'s masterpiece.The Detroit Tigers ace and reigning AL Cy Young winner turned in one of the majors' finest outings of this decade Sunday, spinning a two-hit, 13-strikeout shutout on just 94 pitches against the Cleveland Guardians in a 5-0 victory.Skubal finished his first career complete game by fanning <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12316" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12316">Gabriel Arias</a> on a 103-mph fastball. It was both the fastest strikeout pitch by a starting pitcher since tracking began in 2008 and the fastest ever thrown by a starter in the ninth inning or later, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1926700342122582404">Sarah Langs of MLB.com</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/gabriel-arias-strikes-out-swinging-vas4tt?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video source: <a href="http://www.mlb.com">MLB.com</a>)"It's pretty special. These fans are incredible," Skubal told the <a href="https://x.com/tigers/status/1926709090140516537">Roku broadcast</a> moments after the final out. "When you run back out there for the ninth, the emotions that kind of run through me - I'm an emotional player, and (you) take a second and appreciate it for sure."Skubal's 13 Ks are the most ever by a pitcher in a shutout of 99 pitches or fewer, according to <a href="https://x.com/castrovince/status/1926694325544505580">Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com</a>. The previous record of 12 for this feat - which has become widely known as a "Maddux," in honor of the legendary pitcher who did it a record 14 times - was shared by Sandy Koufax in his 1964 no-hitter, Cliff Lee in 2011, and Carlos Carrasco in 2014.The 28-year-old also set a new Tigers record for strikeouts without issuing a walk in a shutout, breaking the old mark of 10 set by "Wild" Bill Donovan against the St. Louis Browns in 1908, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/2QGtb">Stathead</a>. The 13 strikeouts also tied the franchise record for Ks in a shutout by a left-hander and were one off the team's overall mark.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tarik Skubal is the first pitcher in Tigers history to throw a complete game with zero walks, no more than two hits, and 13+ strikeouts. The last Major League pitcher to do so was Jacob deGrom on April 23, 2021. <a href="https://t.co/fScGwpVEE3">pic.twitter.com/fScGwpVEE3</a>— Tigers PR (@DetroitTigersPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/DetroitTigersPR/status/1926697662742458750?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The southpaw's <a href="https://www.mlb.com/glossary/advanced-stats/game-score">Game Score</a> of 96 is the <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/Y4X39">highest</a> by a Tigers pitcher since Hall of Famer Jim Bunning's no-hitter on July 20, 1958 (Bunning scored a 97 in that outing). Bunning and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/195">Justin Verlander</a>, who did it twice, are the only other Tigers with Game Scores of 95 or better in a nine-inning start. Skubal is also just the <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/VPG7C">sixth pitcher</a> to record a Game Score above 95 this decade.Cleveland had no answers for Skubal, who started his day with five perfect innings before allowing a leadoff double to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12512" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12512">Will Wilson</a> in the sixth. The Guardians only had three total baserunners on the day (two singles and one hit-by-pitch), none of whom advanced beyond second base.With such little resistance from Cleveland and an efficient pitch count, it made manager AJ Hinch's decision to let Skubal pitch the ninth a very easy one."In this era, starting pitching still matters," Hinch <a href="https://x.com/DetroitTigersPR/status/1926713754596639061">said</a>. "Obviously, we are careful across the industry in how we handle these guys, and the pitch counts have diminished and the inning totals have diminished. Sometimes it's your big boy's day, and you got to leave him out there."The outing lowered Skubal's ERA to 2.49 and dropped his WHIP to 0.84 through 11 starts. He also took over the AL strikeout lead with 92 and owns the majors' lowest BB/9 rate at 0.9, while his 13.14 strikeout-to-walk ratio is nearly two points better than the single-season record.All of the run support he needed came during a five-run Tigers fourth against Cleveland's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15706" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15706">Logan Allen</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8847" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8847">Zach McKinstry</a> provided the winning blow with a two-run homer.

DETROIT, MI - MAY 25: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers reacts after throwing the final strikeout in his first career complete game to win the game between the Cleveland Guardians and the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Sunday, May 25, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Skubal destroys Guardians with 13-K, 94-pitch shutout

The Boston Red Sox will be without Alex Bregman longer than they initially expected after the thi...

The Boston Red Sox will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> longer than they initially expected after the third baseman sustained a "significant" right quadriceps injury during Friday's game, manager Alex Cora announced Saturday."He's going to be out for a while. Very similar to (his previous quad injury in) '21," Cora said following Boston's 6-5 win over the Baltimore Orioles in Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader."I'm not going to give you a timetable. Hopefully, our medical staff (will have him ready) sooner rather than later, but he will be out for a while."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bregman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3290281" href="https://thescore.com/news/3290281">left</a> Friday's game accompanied by a trainer after singling in the fifth inning with what the team initially called right quad tightness. While initially optimistic about his status, an MRI taken Saturday confirmed the severity of his injury."Yeah no doubt, it surprised me a lot," Bregman said Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.bostonherald.com/2025/05/24/red-sox-star-infielder-expected-to-miss-significant-time-with-quad-injury/">Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald</a>. "But it is what it is, and now I'm going to try and take it day by day and crush rehab."In 2021, while playing for the Houston Astros, Bregman missed over two months of action due to a left quad strain.The 31-year-old was off to a fantastic start in Boston after joining the Red Sox on a three-year, $120-million deal in February. Bregman owns a .299/.385/.553 slash line with 11 homers and 35 RBIs over 51 games this season. Defensively, his six defensive runs saved lead all qualified AL third basemen.The Red Sox <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3290751" href="https://thescore.com/news/3290751">called up</a> prized infield prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16199" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16199">Marcelo Mayer</a> from Triple-A in response to Bregman's injury. Mayer arrived at Fenway Park Saturday afternoon and will play third base in his debut during the nightcap. Though a natural shortstop, he's played six games at third in the minors, four of which have come this season."We'll play him everywhere," Cora said of Mayer. "He can play second, he can play shortstop, he can play third."Other options to man third in Bregman's absence besides Mayer include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13720" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13720">David Hamilton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10014" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10014">Abraham Toro</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13718" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13718">Nick Sogard</a>. Cora also listed center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13703" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13703">Ceddanne Rafaela</a> as a possibility in emergency situations Friday, per <a href="https://x.com/MacCerullo/status/1926024322990141581">Cerullo</a>.One player fans shouldn't expect to see at the hot corner is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a>. Cora said the slugger, who was forced off his longtime position and into full-time DH duties following Bregman's signing, won't be returning to third, according to <a href="https://x.com/jcmccaffrey/status/1926380817766314443">The Athletic's Jen McCaffrey</a>.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 23: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox exits the game during the fifth inning of game one of a doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park on May 23, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Cora: Bregman's quad injury 'significant,' timetable still unknown

Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes isn't paying attention to trade rumors that have grown louder ...

Pittsburgh Pirates ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> isn't paying attention to trade rumors that have grown louder during the team's recent struggles."It doesn't make any difference with the (trade) talks," Skenes told <a href="https://x.com/JMackeyPG/status/1926111346392793129">Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette</a> following the Bucs' 6-5 win over the Milwaukee Brewers. "I'm not going anywhere, I don't think. I have to figure out how to continue to improve this place."He added: "There's no substance to just all that talk that you hear on social media and news outlets and stuff like that," Skenes said, according to the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3290479" href="https://thescore.com/news/3290479">Associated Press</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Pirates seem headed toward yet another losing campaign. Although they're 6-8 since new manager Don Kelly took over for the fired Derek Shelton earlier this month, they're already 13 1/2 games out of first place in the NL Central. Pittsburgh's 18-34 record places second worst in the NL, ahead of only the lowly Colorado Rockies.Skenes has nothing to do with any of that. The reigning NL Rookie of the Year is authoring a sensational sophomore season, owning a 2.36 ERA and 0.95 WHIP with 70 strikeouts over 11 starts. Still, he's received zero support, owning a 3-5 record that includes a complete-game loss; the Pirates are 4-7 in games he's started.The entire situation has led to some questioning whether Pittsburgh should look to trade Skenes this summer for what would be a gigantic return. General manager Ben Cherington <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3289915" href="https://thescore.com/news/3289915">shot down</a> any notion of such a move this week, saying that a Skenes trade is "not at all part of the conversation."Skenes won't be in control of his future until after the 2029 season, when he reaches free agency. Sill, the 22-year-old doesn't expect to be moved any time soon and seems eager to bring winning baseball back to the Steel City."When I got drafted, I came in with the intention of winning a World Series here. That hasn't changed," Skenes <a href="https://x.com/JMackeyPG/status/1926111346392793129">said</a>. "I don't think my days here are numbered by any means."

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 23: Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches during the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at PNC Park on May 23, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Pirates' Skenes dismisses trade rumors: 'I'm not going anywhere'

The slumping Athletics shook up their roster Friday in an effort to end their nine-game losing st...

The slumping Athletics shook up their roster Friday in an effort to end their nine-game losing streak.The A's optioned starting center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12422" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12422">JJ Bleday</a> to Triple-A Las Vegas and designated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5778" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5778">Seth Brown</a>, a longtime member of the club, for assignment as part of a 10-player roster shuffle.Outfielder Denzel Clarke, ranked as the A's No. 8 prospect by <a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2015-athletics/prospects/?season=2025&amp;ranking=preseason">Baseball America</a>, was one of five players called to the majors from Triple-A on Friday. Left-hander Jacob Lopez and corner infielder CJ Alexander were also recalled, while catcher Willie MacIver and infielder/outfielder Logan Davidson were promoted to the big leagues for the first time.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>This was Brown's seventh season with the A's and 10th in their organization, making him by far the team's longest-tenured member. The former 19th-rounder reached the 20-homer mark in each of his first two full big-league seasons, including a career-high 25 in 2022.However, Brown hasn't posted an OPS above .700 since that 2022 campaign. The 32-year-old, who has one more year of arbitration remaining, started just 19 games this year and was hitting .192/.311/.288 with one homer, three RBIs, and 17 strikeouts before being cut.Bleday entered this year as the A's starting center fielder but lost that job after failing to repeat his breakout 2024 campaign. The 27-year-old put up a .762 OPS with 20 homers last season but hit just .204/.291/.365 with six homers and 18 RBIs over 47 games in 2025. He also played poor defense, contributing minus-6 defensive runs saved in center.The A's are hoping Clarke will improve their production in center field. The 25-year-old Toronto native was hitting .286/.436/.419 with 21 RBIs, seven steals, and 29 walks over 133 plate appearances at Triple-A before his call-up. Clarke's best attributes are his speed and base-stealing abilities, as well as his defense.MacIver, 28, hit .389/.469/.548 with two homers and 30 RBIs in 35 games as a catcher and DH at Las Vegas this year. He'll presumably serve as Shea Langeliers' primary backup.Davidson was hitting .303/.452/.428 with two homers and 22 RBIs over 186 PAs at Triple-A. The 2019 first-rounder started games at all four infield positions, as well as left field, this season.Lopez has shuttled between West Sacramento and Las Vegas this year, making four appearances in the majors. He'll start Friday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies, according to <a href="https://x.com/MartinJGallegos/status/1926023683534893463">Martín Gallegos of MLB.com</a>. Alexander made his big-league debut with Kansas City last summer.In addition to sending out Brown and Bleday, the A's also optioned right-hander Carlos Duran and catcher Jhonny Pereda to Triple-A. Duran allowed three earned runs in one-third of an inning during his big-league debut Thursday. Pereda made waves by striking out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> late in a blowout loss last week but put up a .480 OPS in 16 games at his regular position.The A's also placed third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3741" href="/mlb/players/3741">Gio Urshela</a> on the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain and cleared a 40-man roster spot by moving second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14042" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14042">Zack Gelof</a> to the 60-day IL.The A's started their maiden season in West Sacramento strong but have fallen off of late. Thursday's loss to the Los Angeles Angels was their ninth straight and dropped them seven games back of first-place Seattle.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 2: Seth Brown #15 of the Athletics looks on in the dugout prior to the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on May 2, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Slumping A's DFA Brown, option Bleday as part of 10-player shuffle

Ronald Acuña Jr. is back.  The Atlanta Braves activated their star outfielder from the injured li...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuña Jr.</a> is back.The Atlanta Braves activated their star outfielder from the injured list Friday, paving the way for Acuña to make his season debut against the San Diego Padres at Truist Park.Acuña will lead off and play right field in Friday's game.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
La Bestia is BACK 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/ronaldacunajr24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ronaldacunajr24</a> <a href="https://t.co/1Ccmd38SXU">pic.twitter.com/1Ccmd38SXU</a>— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Braves/status/1925733831513972823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Acuña hasn't played in the majors since tearing the ACL in his left knee on May 26, 2024. It was the second time he required ACL reconstruction surgery, having previously torn the ligament in his right knee in 2021.After a nearly yearlong rehab, the 2023 NL MVP finally returned to game action last week, making minor-league rehab appearances in the Florida Complex League and with Triple-A Gwinnett. Acuña went 6-for-15 with two homers, four extra-base hits, and seven walks over his six-game rehab stint.In his final rehab outing on Wednesday, Acuña went 1-for-4 with a walk and played a full nine innings in right field for the first time this year. The Braves had scheduled a seventh rehab game for Acuña on Thursday, but with his return to the majors imminent, they scratched him from Gwinnett's lineup shortly before first pitch."It'll be good, he feels ready, and that's great," manager Brian Snitker said, according to <a href="https://www.ajc.com/sports/2025/05/ronald-acuna-will-rejoin-braves-in-coming-days-possibly-friday/">Gabriel Burns of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution</a>. "It'll be great to get him back in the lineup."In his most recent full campaign, Acuña ran away with NL MVP honors after producing just the fifth (to that date) 40-homer, 40-steal season, and first-ever 40-70 campaign. He also hit .337/.416/.596 and led the majors in hits (217), runs (149), steals, and OBP.The Braves have sorely missed his electric bat atop their lineup. Atlanta's leadoff hitters own a .603 OPS through 49 games in 2025, a figure that ranks last in the NL and 28th overall."We know how electric that guy is," first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4249" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4249">Matt Olson</a> told Burns. "MVP-caliber player. To get his energy back, and lead off the game with No. 13, it's going to be exciting."The Braves also designated shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3574" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3574">Orlando Arcia</a> for assignment Friday.Thursday's loss to the Washington Nationals dropped the Braves to 24-25 on the season. Although they've recovered somewhat from a disastrous 0-7 start, Snitker's club enters play Friday sitting 7.5 games behind the first-place Phillies and 3.5 games out of a playoff spot.

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 13: Ronald Acuña Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves stands in the dugout during the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Truist Park on September 13, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Braves' Acuña to make season debut Friday

The Colorado Rockies found yet another new low Thursday afternoon.  With their 2-0 loss to the Ph...

The Colorado Rockies found yet another new low Thursday afternoon.With their 2-0 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field, the Rockies fell to 8-42, marking the worst 50-game start in baseball's modern era (since 1901).The 1904 Washington Senators held the previous 50-game record in the modern era, opening that season 9-41. Only one team - the 1895 Louisville Colonels - has ever endured a worse start than this year's Rockies, according to <a href="https://champsorchumps.us/records/worst-mlb-regular-season-records-through-50-games">Champs Or Chumps</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Colorado's start is also worse than that of the 1899 Cleveland Spiders, who went 9-41 out of the gate en route to a single-season loss record of 134 games. Thursday's defeat puts the Rockies on pace for 136, which would break the Spiders' 126-year-old mark.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>50-Game Record</th>
<th>Final Record</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1895 Louisville Colonels</td>
<td>7-43</td>
<td>35-96</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2025 Rockies</td>
<td>8-42</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1886 Washington Nationals</td>
<td>9-41</td>
<td>28-92</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1899 Cleveland Spiders</td>
<td>9-41</td>
<td>20-134</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1904 Washington Senators</td>
<td>9-41</td>
<td>38-113</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1897 St. Louis Browns</td>
<td>10-40</td>
<td>29-102</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2023 Athletics</td>
<td>10-40</td>
<td>50-112</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1932 Red Sox</td>
<td>10-40</td>
<td>43-111</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>For additional perspective, the 2024 Chicago White Sox started 15-35 and finished with a modern-era record 121 losses.The Rockies dropped to 1-9 since firing longtime manager Bud Black on May 11. They've now been shut out eight times in 2025, including a historic 21-0 defeat against San Diego on May 10.

DENVER, CO - MAY 19: Colorado Rockies interim manager Warren Schaeffer (34) looks on from the dugout during a game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on May 19, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Rockies off to worst 50-game start in modern era

Tyler Glasnow is throwing baseballs again, but it's still unclear when the injured right-hander w...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a> is throwing baseballs again, but it's still unclear when the injured right-hander will be able to help the Los Angeles Dodgers' ailing rotation.Glasnow, who has been on the injured list with shoulder inflammation since late April, began a throwing program earlier this week. However, he's only throwing on flat ground, manager Dave Roberts noted Thursday."From what I hear, the catch play, the flat-ground stuff has been good. I'm not sure when he's going to get on the mound, though," Roberts told <a href="https://x.com/Matthew__Moreno/status/1923159994570092892">Matthew Moreno of Dodger Blue 1958</a> ahead of Thursday's game against the Athletics.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Glasnow visited with Neal ElAttrache - the noted orthopedic surgeon who is also the Dodgers' head physician - on Monday, <a href="https://dodgerblue.com/dodgers-injury-updates-blake-snell-tyler-glasnow-meeting-with-dr-neal-elattrache/2025/05/12/">Matt Borelli of DodgerBlue.com</a> reported earlier this week.This shoulder issue is the latest ailment to befall Glasnow, who's struggled to stay healthy throughout his career. Although he threw a career-high 134 innings in 2024, he's never made more than 22 starts in a season and missed last year's World Series run because of an elbow injury.Glasnow posted a 4.50 ERA with 23 strikeouts and 11 walks over five early-season starts in 2025. He pitched into the sixth inning during just one of those outings, and he departed his most recent start April 27 after just one inning because of the shoulder issue. Glasnow landed on the IL a few days later.He's one of 14 Dodgers pitchers on the IL with an array of injuries. L.A. entered play Thursday owning the best record in the National League despite being down to just four regular starters - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9566">Dustin May</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9723" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9723">Tony Gonsolin</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12497" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12497">Landon Knack</a>. Reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17229" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17229">Matt Sauer</a> was tabbed to start Thursday's game as an opener.While the team is getting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/945" href="/mlb/players/945">Clayton Kershaw</a> back Saturday, his season debut will come a little more than a week after rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a> landed on the IL with his own shoulder issue. Two-time Cy Young Award winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a> has also been out since April because of shoulder problems.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 27: Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Dodger Stadium on April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Roberts: Glasnow throwing on flat ground, return to mound still TBD

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Josh Goldberg

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