The Colorado Rockies placed designated hitter Kris Bryant on the 10-day injured list due to lumba...

The Colorado Rockies placed designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4221" href="/mlb/players/4221">Kris Bryant</a> on the 10-day injured list due to lumbar degenerative disc disease, they announced Monday.It's unclear what type of treatment Bryant will receive for the issue. Manager Bud Black said that while the former NL MVP is likely to return after the minimum 10 days are up, the condition will force the team to manage his playing time."A lot of players - especially at this point in their career - have to manage certain things in their body," Black said, per <a href="https://x.com/TheAndresPablo/status/1911940619930337456">Andrés Soto of MLB.com</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>This is the latest setback for Bryant during an immensely disappointing Rockies tenure. Since joining the Rockies on a seven-year, $182-million contract in 2022, the four-time All-Star has played in just 170 games due to being sidelined by injuries. He's accrued minus-1.8 fWAR as a Rockie, tied for the fourth-worst among hitters with at least 700 plate appearances since 2022.Back issues have been Bryant's most frequent problem. Last year, his recurring back problems forced him to the IL twice; he also missed over a month due to a low back strain in 2022.As a result, the Rockies have deployed Bryant, who was once one of baseball's most versatile defensive players, exclusively as a DH or pinch-hitter this season. He's hitting .154/.195/.205 with one RBI, two walks, and 13 strikeouts over 41 plate appearances in 2025.The 33-year-old is earning $25 million annually through 2028.The Rockies selected catcher Braxton Fulford from Triple-A Albuquerque in a corresponding roster move. To open a 40-man roster spot for Fulford, pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12791" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12791">Jeff Criswell</a> was transferred to the 60-day IL.

DENVER, CO - APRIL 5: Kris Bryant #23 of the Colorado Rockies reacts after striking out in the third inning against the Athletics at Coors Field on April 5, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Rockies place Bryant on IL with lumbar degenerative disc disease

The New York Yankees placed right-hander Marcus Stroman on the 15-day injured list Saturday with ...

The New York Yankees placed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a> on the 15-day injured list Saturday with left knee inflammation. Stroman underwent tests following a disastrous outing Friday against the San Francisco Giants. "When he came out, he said his left knee was bugging him," manager Aaron Boone said after his team's rain-shortened 9-1 loss, per <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1910888345724420097">Yankees Videos</a>. "So we got some X-rays here, and I think he went to the hospital to get some more testing, and so we'll see what (results) we have tomorrow."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Stroman struggled from the outset against the Giants, allowing five runs before recording an out. He was pulled after two-thirds of an inning, having allowed four hits, including a three-run homer to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17231" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17231">Jung Hoo Lee</a>, while walking three.The outing continued a rough start to the season for the 33-year-old, who now owns a 11.57 ERA and 2.04 WHIP with seven strikeouts and seven walks over three starts.Stroman appeared to be getting squeezed out of the Yankees' rotation after not pitching during their playoff run last October. However, injuries to starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a> during spring training allowed the New York native to keep his starting spot for at least the beginning of 2025.The Yankees managed just two hits against Giants pitchers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4388" href="/mlb/players/4388">Robbie Ray</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16212" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16212">Spencer Bivens</a> Friday, before the game was called after five-and-a-half innings due to inclement weather.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 30: Marcus Stroman #0 of the New York Yankees in action against the Milwaukee Brewers at Yankee Stadium on March 30, 2025 in New York City. New York Yankees defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 12-3.

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Stroman lands on IL with knee inflammation 

The MLB-best San Diego Padres will be down a bat for the next little while, as they placed second...

The MLB-best San Diego Padres will be down a bat for the next little while, as they placed second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8318" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8318">Jake Cronenworth</a> on the 10-day injured list with a fractured right rib.Cronenworth characterized the timetable for his return as being "open-ended," although he's optimistic he won't be sidelined for long, according to <a href="https://x.com/AJCassavell/status/1910814782674080142">AJ Cassavell of MLB.com</a>.Utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4829" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4829">Tyler Wade</a> was called up from Triple-A El Paso in a corresponding move.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cronenworth sustained the injury when he was hit by a pitch in the first inning of Sunday's game against the Chicago Cubs, according to <a href="https://x.com/AJCassavell/status/1910804913044726176">AJ Cassavell of MLB.com</a>. He finished that game, then played all nine innings and homered the next night against the Athletics in West Sacramento.However, the 31-year-old was forced to leave Tuesday's game after three innings when he wasn't able to run out a ground ball because of the pain. An MRI taken Thursday revealed the fracture.The Padres became the first team to reach 10 wins Wednesday, but they did so without several of their stars. Besides Cronenworth, the team is also without outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14111" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14111">Jackson Merrill</a>, who's sidelined with a strained hamstring. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8286" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8286">Fernando Tatis Jr.</a> also left Tuesday's game early with a shoulder injury, although he'll return to the lineup Friday against the Colorado Rockies, according to <a href="https://x.com/sdutKevinAcee/status/1910819094443831764">Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune</a>.Cronenworth, a two-time All-Star, is hitting .257/.409/.486 with two homers and five RBIs over 44 plate appearances to start this season.Wade, 30, put up a .524 OPS over 90 games with the Padres last season in a part-time role. He's mostly played second base at Triple-A this year, but he also has experience at third, shortstop, and all three outfield spots. He's a candidate to cover second in Cronenworth's absence; other options include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1660" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1660">Jose Iglesias</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a>.To make room for Wade on the 40-man roster, the Padres transferred knuckleball pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15537" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15537">Matt Waldron</a> to the 60-day IL.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - APRIL 05: Jake Cronenworth #9 of the San Diego Padres fields the ball during the third inning against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on April 05, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Padres place Cronenworth on IL with fractured rib

The Boston Red Sox added some experienced catching depth Thursday, agreeing to a minor-league con...

The Boston Red Sox added some experienced catching depth Thursday, agreeing to a minor-league contract with veteran backstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1798" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1798">Yasmani Grandal</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1910448007142924665">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>.Grandal will earn a base salary of $1.35 million if he's in the majors, a source told <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1910472163012075580">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>. For now, he'll report to Boston's Triple-A affiliate in Worcester, per <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/04/red-sox-sign-former-all-star-catcher-to-minor-league-deal.html">MassLive's Sean McAdam</a>.Grandal can opt out on May 1 if he's not in the majors by then, <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisCotillo/status/1910519471929799009">Cotillo</a> reports.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 36-year-old spent last season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he hit .228/.304/.400 with nine homers and 27 RBIs over 72 games. While far from the All-Star level production of his past, it marked his best offensive season since 2021. However, he was unable to find a contract in free agency this winter, and did not participate in spring training.Grandal brings some much-needed depth behind the plate to Boston's organization. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12269" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12269">Connor Wong</a>, the Red Sox starting catcher, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3261310" href="https://thescore.com/news/3261310">landed</a> on the 10-day injured list this week with a fractured finger. His injury left the team with just two catchers - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15437">Blake Sabol</a>, who was recalled Tuesday after Wong was hurt, and rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14562">Carlos Narváez</a> - on both the 26-man and 40-man rosters.In Worcester, Grandal will share time behind the plate with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8925" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8925">Seby Zavala</a> and Enderso Lira while waiting to be called up to the majors.Grandal is a lifetime .236/.345/.424 hitter with 194 home runs and 592 RBIs across parts of 13 big-league seasons. The native of Havana, Cuba, was an All-Star with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2015, and again in 2019 with the Milwaukee Brewers.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JULY 29: Yasmani Grandal #6 of the Pittsburgh Pirates celebrates after a solo home run in sixth inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on July 29, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Red Sox, Grandal agree to minor-league deal

There's an old adage in baseball: You can't win a pennant or clinch a playoff spot in April, but ...

There's an old adage in baseball: You can't win a pennant or clinch a playoff spot in April, but you sure can lose them. Through the first week-plus of the 2025 season, several teams are in danger of finding this out firsthand.Here, we look at how worried five teams should be amid their early-season struggles. We rate the level of concern, with five grimace emojis being the highest level.<h3>Atlanta Braves</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778829/cropped_GettyImages-2207527048.jpg?ts=1743771472" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778829/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207527048.jpg?ts=1743771472 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778829/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207527048.jpg?ts=1743771472 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778829/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207527048.jpg?ts=1743771472 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778829/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207527048.jpg?ts=1743771472 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778829/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207527048.jpg?ts=1743771472 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure>Record: 2-9 Level of concern: 😬😬😬😬😬<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Braves are already being forced to make baseball history in order to turn their dismal campaign around, as no team has ever made the playoffs after going 0-7 out of the gate.Sure, their season-opening road trip through San Diego and Los Angeles didn't do them any favors, but it's also no excuse for how poorly the Braves have played. Only two of those seven losses were by one-run margins, and they've already lost a potential tiebreaker to the Padres. Their starters, save for Spencer Schwellenbach, have struggled. Reynaldo López hit the IL with a potentially serious shoulder injury after one start, and the bullpen hasn't performed anywhere close to expectations as a unit.Even when including Tuesday's seven-run outburst against the Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta's offense has generally been non-existent. The Braves have hit just eight home runs through their first 11 games, and their 82 wRC+ sits 23rd in the league. Third baseman and former Silver Slugger winner Austin Riley is sporting an 81 wRC+ with a 35.4% strikeout rate.Other factors have also put Atlanta behind the 8-ball early. Jurickson Profar, the team's marquee offseason acquisition, received an 80-game suspension for performance-enhancing drugs after four contests; if Atlanta somehow bucks the odds and makes the playoffs, he'll be ineligible to participate. Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. are still out, and while Strider's making rehab starts, it's still unclear when either star will be back in Atlanta, or what version of the stars the team will get.The Braves finally got win No. 1 in their home opener last week, but they'll need more than that to right this ship. That slow start made this week's series against the Phillies one of the most important early April showdowns that we've seen in awhile, as they try to simply keep pace while digging out of this rut. The Braves are an incredibly talented team - arguably the most talented out of this group - but they're in some serious trouble.<h3>Minnesota Twins</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778831/cropped_GettyImages-2208034936.jpg?ts=1743771776" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778831/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208034936.jpg?ts=1743771776 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778831/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208034936.jpg?ts=1743771776 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778831/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208034936.jpg?ts=1743771776 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778831/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208034936.jpg?ts=1743771776 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778831/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208034936.jpg?ts=1743771776 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Brace Hemmelgarn / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Record: 4-8 Level of concern: 😬😬😬The Twins' stunning collapse last September seems to have carried over into 2025. If not for the schedule-makers gifting them an early series against the lowly White Sox, things could be even worse than they already are.Minnesota is one of the worst offensive teams in the AL thus far (0.2 fWAR), while its 74 wRC+ is tied for 25th in baseball. Three of the Twins' eight homers belong to Harrison Bader. Star shortstop Carlos Correa is 7-for-43 with a 44 wRC+, while Byron Buxton owns a .502 OPS and has struck out 16 times in 41 at-bats. Royce Lewis and Brooks Lee opened the season on the IL, and the Twins' lackluster offense clearly misses them.Things aren't much better on the mound, where the Twins' 4.11 ERA ranks 17th out of 30 teams. Starters Chris Paddack and Bailey Ober both have ERAs above 10. Pablo López, Minnesota's one reliable starter through three turns, injured his hamstring during Tuesday's start and is heading to the IL. Defense has also been an issue for the Twins, with sloppy glovework becoming the norm in their games.So yeah, things are bleak in Minneapolis. But this is where the important caveat comes in: the Twins play in the AL Central. As we saw last year, anything can happen in this division. <h3>Seattle Mariners</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779737/cropped_GettyImages-2207818326.jpg?ts=1744219958" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779737/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207818326.jpg?ts=1744219958 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779737/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207818326.jpg?ts=1744219958 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779737/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207818326.jpg?ts=1744219958 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779737/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207818326.jpg?ts=1744219958 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779737/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207818326.jpg?ts=1744219958 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Stephen Brashear / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Record: 5-8 Level of concern: 😬😬😬😬The Mariners missed the postseason by one game in each of the last two seasons and did little to address an offense that finished 21st in runs scored and 29th in batting average last season. That lack of activity looks like a mistake, as the lineup continues to struggle to score runs through the first 13 games of this campaign.Seattle's 44 runs rank 21st in the league, while the club's .200 batting average sits 29th. Julio Rodríguez, Randy Arozarena, Cal Raleigh, and four other starters are each hitting below .200, and only one player, Jorge Polanco, has at least 10 RBIs.To make matters worse, starting center fielder Victor Robles is out at least 12 weeks after injuring his shoulder, Ryan Bliss is sidelined with a torn biceps, and their starting pitching - which was supposed to be a strength - hasn't looked sharp. Seattle's starters have combined for a 4.55 ERA, which ranks 20th.Bryce Miller, in particular, is off to a rough start. Opposing hitters are batting .302 against the 26-year-old, who is striking out hitters less often and walking more than his averages from last season.<h3>Cincinnati Reds</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779008/cropped_GettyImages-2208590749.jpg?ts=1743855743" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779008/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208590749.jpg?ts=1743855743 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779008/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208590749.jpg?ts=1743855743 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779008/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208590749.jpg?ts=1743855743 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779008/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208590749.jpg?ts=1743855743 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779008/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208590749.jpg?ts=1743855743 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Patrick McDermott / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Record: 5-8 Level of concern: 😬😬It's been a frustrating start to Terry Francona's tenure in Cincinnati. A mystery illness swept their clubhouse, causing the manager and a number of players to be sent to the team hotel during a recent trip to Milwaukee. The team sits below .500 and tied for last in the NL Central thanks largely to a non-existent offense.Cincinnati's already lost three consecutive 1-0 contests - which hadn't happened since 1960 - and was mired in a 35-inning scoreless drought until last week, a stretch that's tied for the fourth-longest in franchise history.As a team, the Reds are hitting .206 while getting on base at a .267 clip.The offense has either shown up in bunches or almost not at all. Cincinnati's scored 14, 11, and 6 runs in a game, but three or fewer runs in nine of 13 contests. The Reds finished 16th in runs, 19th in homers, and 21st in OPS last season, so another slow offensive start is a bit troublesome for a team that did little to improve the lineup over the winter. The club really needs the core of Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Spencer Steer, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand to really take the next step this season.<h3>Baltimore Orioles</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779007/cropped_GettyImages-2208332755.jpg?ts=1743855563" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779007/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208332755.jpg?ts=1743855563 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779007/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208332755.jpg?ts=1743855563 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779007/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208332755.jpg?ts=1743855563 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779007/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208332755.jpg?ts=1743855563 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779007/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208332755.jpg?ts=1743855563 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kevin Sousa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Record: 5-8 Level of concern: 😬😬The Baltimore Orioles were criticized for not doing enough this offseason after failing to replace Corbin Burnes with another top-tier starting pitcher. Thirteen games into their season, the Orioles sit below .500 because of a pitching staff that ranks 26th with a 4.78 ERA.Charlie Morton and Dean Kremer have been particularly bad, combining for 26 earned runs in 27 2/3 innings, but the starting staff isn't responsible for all of the damage. Baltimore's normally potent bullpen has had a few blips on the radar, with Cionel Pérez (16.20 ERA) struggling, while returning closer Félix Bautista is still finding his legs (three walks and two earned runs in three appearances) since coming back from Tommy John surgery.To make things worse, right-hander Zach Eflin went on the IL with a lat strain after a solid start to the campaign.<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pitcher</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>Opp. AVG</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Zach Eflin</td>
<td>18.0</td>
<td>3.00</td>
<td>0.83</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>.215</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dean Kremer</td>
<td>14.1</td>
<td>8.16</td>
<td>1.67</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>.333</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charlie Morton</td>
<td>13.1</td>
<td>8.78</td>
<td>1.88</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>.309</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cade Povich</td>
<td>10.1</td>
<td>3.48</td>
<td>1.84</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>.378</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tomoyuki Sugano</td>
<td>9.1</td>
<td>2.89</td>
<td>1.29</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>.243</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Orioles have one of MLB's deepest lineups - minus the injured Colton Cowser, who is sidelined six-to-eight weeks with a fractured thumb - so the level of concern is moderate. Baltimore won't succeed, however, unless the pitching staff, which could see the injured Grayson Rodriguez return in May, starts to improve.

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Assessing level of concern for 5 MLB teams off to slow starts

The Chicago White Sox were a few feet away from a tie game. Instead, they lost a heartbreaker to ...

The Chicago White Sox were a few feet away from a tie game. Instead, they lost a heartbreaker to the Cleveland Guardians - and possibly their right fielder, too.Chicago trailed 3-1 with two out and two on in the ninth inning when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12599" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12599">Miguel Vargas</a> laced what appeared to be a game-tying single off Guardians closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11259">Emmanuel Clase</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12483" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12483">Jacob Amaya</a> scored easily on the play, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4992">Mike Tauchman</a> rounded third behind him. But Tauchman pulled up lame halfway down the line, allowing Guardians catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3638" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3638">Austin Hedges</a> to apply an uncontested tag to secure a 3-2 Cleveland win.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/emmanuel-clase-in-play-run-s-to-miguel-vargas-x5287?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video Source: <a href="http://www.mlb.com">MLB.com</a>)<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>A clearly frustrated Tauchman was able to pick himself up and walk off the field. The White Sox placed him on the injured list Thursday with a right hamstring strain.Tauchman opened his season on the injured list because of a hamstring strain he suffered during spring training. He was just reinstated from the IL on Sunday.The White Sox fell to 2-9 on the young season despite out-hitting Cleveland 8-3. Tauchman contributed three hits in the loss, including a single in the ill-fated top of the ninth.

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 09: Chicago White Sox right fielder Mike Tauchman (18) on his knees after being tagged out to end the Major League Baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians on April 9, 2025, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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White Sox lose on play at plate when Tauchman injures hamstring

The Baltimore Orioles lost another starting pitcher to the injured list.  Right-hander Zach Eflin...

The Baltimore Orioles lost another starting pitcher to the injured list.Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5202">Zach Eflin</a> was placed on the 15-day IL with a lat strain, the club announced WednesdayEflin will be shut down for around a week, manager Brandon Hyde said Tuesday following the team's 4-3 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByMattWeyrich/status/1909826635869921556">Matt Weyrich of the Baltimore Sun</a>. A firm timetable for his return was not announced.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Eflin left Monday's start after just 73 pitches due to what the team called shoulder fatigue. Though he was effective during the outing, allowing just one run on four hits before being removed, his velocity declined as the game progressed.The 30-year-old also missed time last season due to shoulder inflammation.Eflin's injury is the latest blow to an Orioles rotation that's been without several key members to start the season. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a> has been dealing with elbow inflammation since spring training and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12260" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12260">Kyle Bradish</a> is continuing his recovery from Tommy John surgery, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12581" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12581">Tyler Wells</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9579" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9579">Trevor Rogers</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17461" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17461">Chayce McDermott</a> are also on the IL.Baltimore also lost swingman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2935" href="/mlb/players/2935">Albert Suárez</a> to a shoulder issue after just one regular-season appearance. Suárez was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3261270" href="https://thescore.com/news/3261270">transferred</a> to the 60-day IL on Monday and is expected to miss a few months of action.Eflin, the Orioles' Opening Day starter, is 2-1 with a 3.00 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and eight strikeouts through three starts to start 2025. He's in his first full season with the O's after being acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in a midseason trade last July.Right-hander Colin Selby was recalled from Triple-A to take Eflin's spot on the active roster.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 02: Zach Eflin #24 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 02, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Orioles' Eflin goes on IL with lat strain

Former Baltimore Orioles ace Corbin Burnes shed some light on his negotiations with the team in f...

Former Baltimore Orioles ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> shed some light on his negotiations with the team in free agency this past offseason.Burnes spent one season in Baltimore before inking a six-year, $210-million contract with Arizona Diamondbacks in December. The former Cy Young winner hinted that Baltimore's final offer was for four years, with the potential to go up to five, putting it well short of what Burnes was seeking."I don't think the dollar amount was an issue because the dollars here (in Arizona) were more than what they were there (in Baltimore) in the offers. I just don't think that we necessarily matched up on the years that it was gonna take to kind of get to a dollar amount for me to stay there," Burnes told reporters ahead of his D-Backs facing the Orioles at Chase Field, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByMattWeyrich/status/1909733009647190389">Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"That was kind of one of the things that we were scratching our head at where they kind of got the years from," Burnes added, per <a href="https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/sports/orioles-mlb/corbin-burnes-orioles-offer-head-scratcing-JCUM4BHNYBD2VPI5FRY54HSCRA/">Andy Kostka of the Baltimore Banner</a>. "Not to say they wouldn't have jumped up at the end if things got a little more serious. But just kind of even going back and forth a couple times with them, they were kind of set on those years. But yeah, I'm not sure why."Baltimore's final offer to Burnes was for $180 million over four years, a source told <a href="https://x.com/masnRoch/status/1909743578252722580">MASN's Roch Kubatko</a>. Although less than the deal he signed with Arizona in money and term, the Orioles' offer had an average annual value of $45 million, which would have set a record for pitchers.The Orioles acquired Burnes from the Milwaukee Brewers in February 2024. He pitched well during his brief stay in the Charm City, finishing fifth in AL Cy Young voting after posting a 2.92 ERA and 1.10 WHIP over 32 starts. But when free agency came, Burnes - who lived in Arizona even before joining the D-Backs - was apparently ready to go home."I'm not sure any amount of money would have made much difference," Orioles owner David Rubenstein told <a href="https://x.com/jcalvinmeyer/status/1907182058033565964">the Baltimore Sun's Jacob Calvin Meyer</a> last week about losing Burnes to the D-Backs. "We had an offer that, when you add it all up, was very competitive. We were prepared to put in the money necessary."Burnes, who also reportedly received interest from the San Francisco Giants and Toronto Blue Jays, said he never ruled out a return to Baltimore. He noted that the sides were in contact until very late in the game."No, we never told (Baltimore) that we weren't gonna go there," he said, per Weyrich. "I know (agent Scott Boras) was still in negotiations with them up until a couple days prior of us signing here. This deal here came together very quick, and so, yeah, they (the Orioles) were one of the teams that were still in consideration, that they were still kind of in negotiations with, that we haven't gotten to a point of kind of narrowing it down."But when the Diamondbacks came in, they came in hot and heavy, and like I said, we got it done in a matter of maybe 72 hours. It was quick."Burnes, who is not scheduled to face his former team during this week's series, owns a 5.79 ERA with 11 strikeouts and seven walks through his first two starts with the D-Backs.

BRONX, NY - APRIL 01: Corbin Burnes #39 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches during the game against the New York Yankees on April 1, 2025 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.

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Burnes discusses departure from O's: Money wasn't an issue

The Boston Red Sox placed catcher Connor Wong on the 10-day injured list after fracturing his lef...

The Boston Red Sox placed catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12269" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12269">Connor Wong</a> on the 10-day injured list after fracturing his left pinky finger during Monday night's 6-2 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays.A timetable for his return wasn't immediately known."Late swing got him good, so we're going to have to make a move," manager Alex Cora said, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/04/broken-finger-sends-catcher-connor-wong-to-il-red-sox-to-promote-blake-sabol.html">MassLive's Sean McAdam</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Red Sox recalled catcher Blake Sabol from Triple-A Worcester on Tuesday.Wong suffered the injury when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George Springer</a>'s bat struck him in the top of the first. He was charged with catcher's interference on the play.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/connor-wong-exits-with-hand-injury?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/carson-kelly-hits-for-the-cycle?q=Carson%20Kelly&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">MLB.com</a>)Wong initially remained in the game after being checked out by Red Sox trainers but was removed to start the top of the second. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14562">Carlos Narváez</a> took over behind the plate.The 28-year-old is having a slow start to the season, hitting just 2-for-23 with three walks, seven strikeouts, and no RBIs over his first nine games.Narváez will likely get most of the reps at catcher while Wong is on the IL. The 26-year-old, who Boston acquired from the New York Yankees in an offseason trade, has only 11 games of big-league experience."Connor has been a very important piece for us. Hopefully, he's going to be back soon," Narváez said postgame, per McAdam. "In the meantime, while he's out, I'm going to take accountability to help the team win every game."Sabol is the only other other catcher on the Red Sox 40-man roster. The 26-year-old spent the past two seasons with the San Francisco Giants and has gone 5-for-20 with five walks and four RBIs over six games at Triple-A to start this campaign.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - APRIL 07: A Boston Red Sox trainer checks on Connor Wong #12 after injuring his hand during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park on April 07, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Red Sox catcher Wong lands on IL with fractured finger

Houston Astros right-hander Spencer Arrighetti suffered a broken right thumb Monday in a freak pr...

Houston Astros right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16276" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16276">Spencer Arrighetti</a> suffered a broken right thumb Monday in a freak pregame accident at T-Mobile Park, the team announced.Arrighetti was playing catch in the outfield as the Seattle Mariners were taking batting practice when a Mariners hitter ripped a line drive that struck his thumb and broke it. Tests taken a short time later confirmed the fracture.The 25-year-old won't require surgery on his thumb and will be in a cast for "two or two and a half weeks," before undergoing follow-up imaging, manager Joe Espada told <a href="https://x.com/Chandler_Rome/status/1910035305148846459">The Athletic's Chandler Rome</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Arrighetti owns a 5.59 ERA, 4.64 FIP, and 0.93 WHIP with eight strikeouts and five walks through his first two starts of the season. The New Mexico native is in his second big-league season.The Astros did not place Arrighetti on the injured list prior to Monday's game against the Mariners. He was scheduled to make his next start Friday against the Los Angeles Angels in Houston.Houston was already dealing with a shortage of pitching depth before Arrighetti's injury. Starters J.P. France, Luis Garcia, Cristian Javier, Lance McCullers Jr., and Shawn Dubin all opened the season on the injured list while recovering from elbow or shoulder injuries. Garcia was transferred to the 60-day IL earlier Tuesday, while McCullers is in the middle of a rehab assignment and isn't ready to return just yet.Internal options to replace Arrighetti in the short term include prospects Colton Gordon, Miguel Ullola, A.J. Blubaugh, and Misael Tamarez. All four are currently pitching at Triple-A Sugar Land; of that group, only Gordon is currently on the 40-man roster.Right-hander Ryan Gusto, who made the team out of spring training as a long reliever, could also jump into the rotation. Gusto has made three relief appearances so far this year but has primarily worked as a starter in the minors.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 05: Spencer Arrighetti #41 of the Houston Astros delivers a pitch against the Minnesota Twins in the first inning at Target Field on April 05, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Twins defeated the Astros 6-1.

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Astros' Arrighetti breaks thumb after being hit by liner during BP

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to have locked up one of their homegrown stars in Vladimir Guerrero ...

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to have locked up one of their homegrown stars in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr</a>. A <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> extension is going to take some more time.Bichette was quick to express his happiness for his longtime teammate and friend after news of Guerrero's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3260554" href="https://thescore.com/news/3260554">reported</a> 14-year, $500-million extension. While the star shortstop still hopes to finish his career alongside Guerrero in a Blue Jays uniform, he also acknowledged no movement has been made toward his long-term deal."My goal as a kid was always to be with an organization my whole career and build a winning culture," Bichette told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/blue-jays-celebrate-pending-guerrero-deal-and-a-win-over-red-sox/">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>. "Obviously, that shifted to being with the Blue Jays forever and building a winning culture with Vladdy. Nothing's on the table right now, and I'm just focused on the game."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Doing that with the Blue Jays "would be my preference," Bichette added. "I think we're building something, and I think we're only getting older with more experience that is going to allow us to do that. But I have this season to worry about."Bichette and Guerrero have become inextricably linked with one another since joining the Blue Jays organization as prospects. Both played their first professional seasons in 2016 and first became teammates at Single-A in 2017 before climbing the ladder together. They each reached the majors in 2019, with Guerrero beating Bichette to Toronto by three months.Bichette has established himself as a reliable offensive player and franchise pillar at shortstop. The 27-year-old led the AL in hits twice during his first four seasons while helping lead Toronto to three playoff berths since 2020. However, he is coming off an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3249381" href="https://thescore.com/news/3249381">injury-plagued 2024</a> campaign that saw him post a .598 OPS over 81 games.He's off to a torrid start in 2025, though. He's yet to homer, but Bichette's hitting .295/.354/.386 with four extra-base hits through his first 48 plate appearances this season.The Blue Jays bought out all three of Bichette's arbitration years in 2023 when they inked him to a three-year, $33.6-million contract. That deal still left Bichette in line to become a free agent this coming offseason. Should he get there, he'll be in line for a massive payday as one of the top available position players.Although his future in Toronto remains uncertain, Bichette is confident Guerrero's deal with the Blue Jays will work out for both sides over the long term."Luckily, I was in the know a little bit earlier, but super-excited for him," Bichette said. "Something he wanted, something the organization wanted. Seems like it's going to be a good marriage."

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 30: Bo Bichette #11 of Toronto Blue Jays jogs to the dugout against the Baltimore Orioles in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on March 30, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Bichette's situation unchanged after Vlad's deal: 'Nothing's on the table'

Opening week has come and gone. Though the sample sizes remain small, there's plenty of reason to...

Opening week has come and gone. Though the sample sizes remain small, there's plenty of reason to be optimistic about your team's chances. Here's one thing we loved about each club after the first week of the 2025 season.Jump to: <a href="#ARI">ARI</a> | <a href="#ATH">ATH</a> I <a href="#ATL">ATL</a> | <a href="#BAL">BAL</a> | <a href="#BOS">BOS</a> | <a href="#CHC">CHC</a> | <a href="#CWS">CWS</a> | <a href="#CIN">CIN</a> | <a href="#CLE">CLE</a> | <a href="#COL">COL</a> | <a href="#DET">DET</a> | <a href="#HOU">HOU</a> | <a href="#KC">KC</a> | <a href="#LAA">LAA</a> | <a href="#LAD">LAD</a> | <a href="#MIA">MIA</a> | <a href="#MIL">MIL</a> | <a href="#MIN">MIN</a> | <a href="#NYM">NYM</a> | <a href="#NYY">NYY</a> | <a href="#PHI">PHI</a> | <a href="#PIT">PIT</a> | <a href="#SD">SD</a> | <a href="#SF">SF</a> | <a href="#SEA">SEA</a> | <a href="#STL">STL</a> | <a href="#TB">TB</a> | <a href="#TEX">TEX</a> | <a href="#TOR">TOR</a> | <a href="#WSH">WSH</a><a id="ARI" name="ARI">Arizona Diamondbacks</a>: Eugenio Suárez is a man possessed. The veteran slugger has five home runs, including a game-winning grand slam in the eighth inning at Yankee Stadium. Suárez has five seasons of at least 30 homers, and he looks primed to add a sixth to his resume.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a id="ATH" name="ATH">Athletics:</a> The A's have received excellent production from two burgeoning anchors of their lineup. First baseman Tyler Soderstrom's off to a hot start, hitting .296/.321/.667 with three home runs. Rookie shortstop Jacob Wilson has gone 9-for-24 (.375) with no strikeouts over his first seven games.<a id="ATL" name="ATL">Atlanta Braves</a>: There's not much when you're the only winless team in the league. At least the Braves won't have to travel back to California anytime soon. They'll have nightmares of San Diego and Los Angeles after going 0-7 through those two cities out of the gate.<a id="BAL" name="BAL">Baltimore Orioles</a>: It's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0uRfYBHAFmo">Cedric Mullins again</a>; we can't escape him. Mullins mashed three homers and a team-leading 11 RBIs while posting a 1.092 OPS. That's a fantastic sign for the Orioles, who desperately need Mullins to return to form.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778627/cropped_GettyImages-2207601733.jpg?ts=1743648474" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778627/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207601733.jpg?ts=1743648474 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778627/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207601733.jpg?ts=1743648474 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778627/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207601733.jpg?ts=1743648474 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778627/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207601733.jpg?ts=1743648474 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778627/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207601733.jpg?ts=1743648474 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure><a id="BOS" name="BOS">Boston Red Sox:</a> Craig Breslow locked up two key members of the young core before the first week ended. Newly acquired left-hander Garrett Crochet signed a six-year, $170-million extension. A few days later, top infield prospect Kristian Campbell inked an eight-year, $60-million deal after five big-league contests.<a id="CHC" name="CHC">Chicago Cubs</a>: Runs galore. The Cubs exploded for 35 runs in a three-game wallop of the Athletics in Sacramento. Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki lead the way early, combining for eight home runs, seven doubles, 22 RBIs, and 17 runs in nine contests.<a id="CWS" name="CWS">Chicago White Sox</a>: The White Sox are 2-4 after six games, which is somehow good enough for a share of the division lead. Last year, during their record-setting 121-loss season, it took them 11 contests to secure their second win and 18 games to get their third. After the previous campaign's misery, guaranteeing the White Sox won't be that bad again has to bring smiles to the South Side.<a id="CIN" name="CIN">Cincinnati Reds</a>: Elly De La Cruz had four hits, two homers, and seven RBIs in his first game using a torpedo bat. He hit 25 home runs and stole 67 bases in 2024 without the benefit of the highly publicized piece of lumber. The Reds will need De La Cruz and the rest of the lineup to find some runs, with, or without the torpedo bat after getting shut out in three consecutive games.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776290/cropped_GettyImages-2203968636.jpg?ts=1742516977" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776290/w220xh124_GettyImages-2203968636.jpg?ts=1742516977 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776290/w320xh180_GettyImages-2203968636.jpg?ts=1742516977 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776290/w640xh360_GettyImages-2203968636.jpg?ts=1742516977 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776290/w768xh432_GettyImages-2203968636.jpg?ts=1742516977 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/776290/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2203968636.jpg?ts=1742516977 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Brandon Sloter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a id="CLE" name="CLE">Cleveland Guardians</a>: Kyle Manzardo was expected to face challenges against left-handed pitchers. Instead, he's opened the season by mashing southpaws to the tune of .667/.714/2.167 with two homers. The hulking DH even added a triple for good measure. It's clear Manzardo's ready to anchor Cleveland's lineup.<a id="COL" name="COL">Colorado Rockies</a>: Rockies starting pitchers have an ERA under 2.00. That isn't a typo. Don't adjust your screen. The real test begins when the club returns to Coors Field. At the very least, Kyle Freeland and Germán Márquez should be reliable contributors this season.<a id="DET" name="DET">Detroit Tigers</a>: Casey Mize seems to be finally staking his claim to a rotation spot. The former first overall pick, who's battled elbow injuries, hasn't allowed a run after a solid start to open his year. Mize breaking out would give Detroit three reliable starters, and that could go a long way toward helping the Tigers return to the playoffs.<a id="HOU" name="HOU">Houston Astros</a>: Hunter Brown has carried the momentum from his breakout 2024 campaign into this season. The right-hander has 15 strikeouts and 1.00 WHIP through a pair of starts against the Mets and Twins. Brown could be on the verge of becoming one of the top starters in the AL. <a id="KC" name="KC">Kansas City Royals</a>: Maikel Garcia's gotten off to a tremendous start, slashing .353/.421/.824 with two homers. A Garcia breakout would be welcome news for the Royals, who could desperately use another impact bat. At just 25 years old, there's no reason Garcia can't keep this going.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771018/cropped_GettyImages-2036979261.jpg?ts=1739835144" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771018/w220xh124_GettyImages-2036979261.jpg?ts=1739835144 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771018/w320xh180_GettyImages-2036979261.jpg?ts=1739835144 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771018/w640xh360_GettyImages-2036979261.jpg?ts=1739835144 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771018/w768xh432_GettyImages-2036979261.jpg?ts=1739835144 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/771018/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2036979261.jpg?ts=1739835144 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Masterpress / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a id="LAA" name="LAA">Los Angeles Angels</a>: Forget about his slash line. Mike Trout, who hit his first home run Wednesday, made it through the season's first week healthy. That's a win not just for the Angels but for baseball.<a id="LAD" name="LAD">Los Angeles Dodgers</a>: The Dodgers are cruising, and it doesn't even feel like they're fully operational yet. Six of their first eight wins were comebacks. The margin for error for this collection of talent is so huge. Good luck to the rest of the league.<a id="MIA" name="MIA">Miami Marlins</a>: Otto Lopez looks like a keeper. The 26-year-old leads the Marlins in home runs, RBIs, and OPS through seven games. Any offensive improvement to go with his elite defensive play at second base would make Lopez a valuable piece moving forward.<a id="MIL" name="MIL">Milwaukee Brewers</a>: Freddy Peralta is delivering for a depleted pitching staff. The Brewers ace has 16 strikeouts, one walk, and a 2.08 ERA in his first two starts. With a handful of veterans on the shelf, Milwaukee will need Peralta to be at his absolute best if it hopes to stay afloat.<a id="MIN" name="MIN">Minnesota Twins</a>: Harrison Bader is making his hits count. Minnesota's offseason acquisition is 4-for-19 through six games with three homers. His eight RBIs lead the Twins and account for 37% of the team's runs driven in on the campaign.<a id="NYM" name="NYM">New York Mets</a>: Luis Torrens has been a godsend with Francisco Alvarez on the IL. Torrens is hitting .313 with a .978 OPS. His defensive play behind the plate came up clutch in a recent comeback win over the Marlins.<a id="NYY" name="NYY">New York Yankees</a>: No Juan Soto, no problem for the Yankees. Five hitters have an OPS above .970, and three have hit at least four homers. Aaron Judge has already crushed an AL-best five long balls.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777963/cropped_GettyImages-2206938077.jpg?ts=1743721500" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777963/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206938077.jpg?ts=1743721500 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777963/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206938077.jpg?ts=1743721500 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777963/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206938077.jpg?ts=1743721500 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777963/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206938077.jpg?ts=1743721500 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777963/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206938077.jpg?ts=1743721500 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Samuel Corum / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a id="PHI" name="PHI">Philadelphia Phillies</a>: Jesús Luzardo's new sweeper induced an astonishing 70% whiff rate in his Phillies debut, leading to 11 strikeouts. Luzardo's always had the talent to be among the game's best starters. If he can stay healthy, this could be the year he puts it all together.<a id="PIT" name="PIT">Pittsburgh Pirates</a>: Paul Skenes hasn't really dominated, but he still has a 1.46 ERA with over a strikeout per inning across two starts. Skenes' outings remain appointment viewing.<a id="SD" name="SD">San Diego Padres</a>: It's hard to find any faults when you open 7-0 for the first time in franchise history. The lineup is raking, the rotation looks sharp, and the bullpen has been lights out. Maybe the Padres will find a way to put pressure on the Dodgers atop the NL West standings.<a id="SF" name="SF">San Francisco Giants</a>: The Giants are riding high after sweeping the Astros and opening the season with a 5-1 road record. The club should be encouraged to have this success considering offseason acquisition Willy Adames is struggling to the tune of a .366 OPS.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777882/cropped_GettyImages-2206599498.jpg?ts=1743721582" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777882/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206599498.jpg?ts=1743721582 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777882/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206599498.jpg?ts=1743721582 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777882/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206599498.jpg?ts=1743721582 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777882/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206599498.jpg?ts=1743721582 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777882/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206599498.jpg?ts=1743721582 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Rod Mar / Major League Baseball / Getty</figcaption></figure><a id="SEA" name="SEA">Seattle Mariners</a>: The team's pitching remains elite, with Logan Gilbert and Luis Castillo leading the way. Gilbert's 18 strikeouts tops the AL, and he's issued just one walk in 12 innings. Castillo owns a 3.00 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while holding hitters to a .182 average.<a id="STL" name="STL">St. Louis Cardinals</a>: Iván Herrera hit three of his eight career home runs in one game, becoming the first catcher in Cardinals history to go deep three times in the same contest. St. Louis is certainly hoping Herrera is part of the next homegrown core to usher in another era of great Cardinals baseball.<a id="TB" name="TB">Tampa Bay Rays</a>: Tampa's pitching staff has taken a liking to Steinbrenner Field. Rays hurlers have allowed a league-low two homers through six games while striking out 61 and walking only six in 54 innings. They also own the AL's lowest WHIP (0.91) and ERA (2.00).<a id="TEX" name="TEX">Texas Rangers</a>: After losing multiple starting pitchers to injuries during spring training, the remaining members of the rotation have picked up the slack. Three starters - Jack Leiter, Nathan Eovaldi, and Jacob deGrom - boast an ERA below 1.20. Eovaldi threw a shutout Tuesday, and Leiter followed with five shutout frames in back-to-back 1-0 wins.<a id="TOR" name="TOR">Toronto Blue Jays</a>: The Andrés Giménez trade is paying huge dividends already. Toronto's big offseason acquisition owns a 1.131 OPS with three homers in seven games, and he continues to play stellar defense at second base. It's early, but this could be a sign that Giménez has rediscovered his 2022 form at the plate.<a id="WSH" name="WSH">Washington Nationals</a>: Keibert Ruiz was a top-100 prospect for several years with the Dodgers before landing in Washington. Ruiz struggled to a .619 OPS last season but appears to have put that behind him with a .381 average and 1.149 OPS with two home runs in six games.

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What we loved from each MLB team after 1 week

Philadelphia Phillies superstar Bryce Harper was watching closely as the Los Angeles Dodgers out-...

Philadelphia Phillies superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> was watching closely as the Los Angeles Dodgers out-spent just about everyone this winter. Unlike some fans, though, he has no issue with his rivals flexing their financial muscles to become a better team."I don't know if people will like this, but I feel like only losers complain about what they are doing," Harper told reporters ahead of Friday's series opener against the Dodgers, according to <a href="https://x.com/JDumasReports/status/1908238801543082308">Jason Dumas of WPVI</a>. "I think they're a great team, they're a great organization, (and) that's why guys want to go there and play. L.A.'s a great city to play in, obviously. It's the mecca of, kind of, the world of everything, from food to nightlife to sports, from the Dodgers to the Lakers to anybody."They're gonna continue to get guys, they're gonna continue to pull guys from this sport, and if that's bullpen, starting pitching, international players, anything like that, they're doing what the Dodgers do."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>After winning the World Series with a star-studded squad last October, the Dodgers went on a massive spending spree during the offseason. L.A. stunningly signed two-time Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a> to a five-year, $182-million deal and won the bidding for young Japanese phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a>, adding even more star power to a roster that already included <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a>, among others.The Dodgers also brought in reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5525" href="/mlb/players/5525">Tanner Scott</a> on a four-year, $72-million contract, added <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/4772" href="/mlb/players/4772">Michael Conforto</a> on one-year deals, extended Tommy Edman, and re-signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2444" href="/mlb/players/2444">Kiké Hernández</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3013" href="/mlb/players/3013">Blake Treinen</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/945" href="/mlb/players/945">Clayton Kershaw</a>. Their Opening Day payroll came in at a little over $330 million, nearly $10 million more than the second-place New York Mets, per <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/payroll/_/year/2025">Spotrac</a>.The Phillies have certainly spent in recent years, luring the likes of Harper, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2880" href="/mlb/players/2880">Nick Castellanos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4814" href="/mlb/players/4814">Trea Turner</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2917" href="/mlb/players/2917">Zack Wheeler</a> to town on big-money deals. But their $283-million Opening Day payroll currently ranks fourth in MLB.Philadelphia didn't make any splashy signings this past offseason, only adding reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8362">Jordan Romano</a> and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3559" href="/mlb/players/3559">Max Kepler</a> on one-year deals in free agency. The team did attempt to pursue Sasaki - who will face the Phillies on Saturday in his first MLB road start - but were rebuffed by the right-hander before having a chance to meet with him.Although it's early in the season, this weekend's three-game series at Citizens Bank Park could be an NLCS preview between two of the favorites to come out of a loaded Senior Circuit in October."That's a really good team over there, so we're excited for the matchup tonight," Harper said of the Dodgers. "I think it should be a fun weekend ahead, and they're a really good team, we're a really good team. We got good arms, they got good arms. We got a good lineup, they do as well. So I know we're looking forward to it, I know our fans are too, and we'll see what happens."

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 9: Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the top of the third inning at Citizens Bank Park on July 9, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Dodgers 10-1.

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Harper: 'Only losers complain about' Dodgers' spending

Three months still remain before the trade deadline, but the New York Mets are already dreaming o...

Three months still remain before the trade deadline, but the New York Mets are already dreaming of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5647" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5647">Sandy Alcantara</a> in blue and orange.Several Mets stars endorsed the idea of their team trading for Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young winner, if the Miami Marlins make him available later this year."It would almost be like adding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">(Juan) Soto</a>," shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> told <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/04/02/sports/sandy-alcantara-could-be-mets-target-if-he-gets-put-on-trading-block-in-future/">Mike Puma of the New York Post</a>. "You add Soto, it's going to help the team. You add Alcantara, and it's going to help the team."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Soto agreed, saying, "It would be one of the best trades that we could have. I know we have great pitching here, but adding a Cy Young winner like that would be huge."Right now, though, Alcantara's still a Marlin, and he made the Mets' lives miserable Tuesday. In his second start of the season, he struck out four while allowing three hits over five innings in a 4-2 Miami victory. Alcantara, who missed last season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, earned his first win since September 2023.The 29-year-old was the unanimous 2022 NL Cy Young winner despite pitching for a 93-loss Marlins team. He put up a 2.28 ERA and 0.98 WHIP that season, and established himself as a workhorse by tossing an MLB-high 228 2/3 innings, along with six complete games and one shutout.Despite the Marlins' surprising 4-2 start to this season, questions about Alcantara's future with the rebuilding club have grown louder in recent months. Miami, which went 62-100 without its ace in 2024, is widely expected to finish last in the NL East once again. A healthy Alcantara would likely fetch a big return from a contender if he's made available.The Marlins were quick to wave the white flag last May when they dealt reigning batting champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a> to the San Diego Padres. President of baseball operations Peter Bendix has tried to squelch talk of an early Alcantara trade, saying <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3253425" href="https://thescore.com/news/3253425">last week</a> that it was way too early to even begin thinking about such a move.Alcantara could be a perfect fit atop a Mets rotation that has some good pitchers but might lack a true No. 1. Soto, who was retired by the two-time All-Star twice in Tuesday's game, sees the right-hander as exactly that type of ace."If he goes to a team that has a chance to compete at the end, I think you are going to see who he is," the star slugger said. "He is doing that on a team that has no serious chance to go to the playoffs, but he keeps trying and competing even without run support. Whenever he goes to a winning team you are going to see what Sandy Alcantara is capable of."

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 01: Sandy Alcantara #22 of the Miami Marlins throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at loanDepot park on April 01, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Mets stars want Alcantara in Queens: 'Would almost be like adding Soto'

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired former stolen-base champion Esteury Ruiz from the Athletics in e...

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired former stolen-base champion Esteury Ruiz from the Athletics in exchange for right-handed pitching prospect Carlos Duran, the teams announced.Ruiz had been designated for assignment by the A's on Sunday.Speed is the 26-year-old's greatest asset. Ruiz stole an AL-high 67 bases in 2023, making him just the second rookie in the wild-card era (since 1995) to record a 60-steal season. He could become an important bench weapon for the Dodgers as a pinch-runner during the postseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, Ruiz's overall game still has plenty of holes. He's a lifetime .243/.297/.343 hitter with just seven home runs over 178 big-league games since 2022. He also committed eight errors in 2023, which led all MLB outfielders that season.Ruiz was sidelined for much of last season with a wrist injury, ultimately playing just 29 games in the majors and another 16 in the minors in 2024 as he fell out of favor with the A's.The Dodgers are sending Ruiz to Triple-A Oklahoma City, as he has two-minor-league options remaining, according to <a href="https://x.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1907478875799433656">ESPN's Alden González</a>.Duran, the pitcher heading to the A's, is a 6-foot-7 right-hander who pitched at three minor-league levels last season. The 23-year-old posted a cumulative 3.71 ERA and 1.58 WHIP with 73 strikeouts over 19 starts across three minor-league levels. He opened 2025 at Triple-A, where he struck out eight in his first start of the year.To make room for Ruiz on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers transferred pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16566">Kyle Hurt</a> to the 60-day injured list.

OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 5: Esteury Ruiz #1 of the Oakland Athletics runs the bases during the game against the Toronto Blue Jays at RingCentral Coliseum on September 5, 2023 in Oakland, California. The Blue Jays defeated the Athletics 7-1.

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Dodgers acquire former stolen-base champ Ruiz from A's

The Pittsburgh Pirates optioned former All-Star closer David Bednar to Triple-A Indianapolis as p...

The Pittsburgh Pirates optioned former All-Star closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9025" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9025">David Bednar</a> to Triple-A Indianapolis as part of a series of roster moves prior to Tuesday's game.Bednar, who recorded an NL-best 39 saves in 2023, has struggled to regain any semblance of his All-Star form since the start of the 2024 season. He owns a 6.14 ERA and 1.50 WHIP with 23 saves and a 9.1 K/9 rate over that span.The 30-year-old has allowed four runs (three earned) in one total inning of work to start 2025. Bednar failed to record an out in two of his three outings and was on the mound for two ninth-inning losses in the Pirates' opening series at Miami, including a walk-off wild pitch Sunday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bednar had two minor-league options remaining and less than five years of MLB service time, allowing the Bucs to send him to Indianapolis.The Pirates acquired Bednar, a Pittsburgh native, from the San Diego Padres in January 2021 as part of the return for right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5369" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5369">Joe Musgrove</a>. He quickly broke out as a top-tier reliever in 2021 and earned his first of two straight All-Star berths the following season.It's unclear who manager Derek Shelton will turn to in the ninth inning while Bednar's in the minors. Options he can call upon include right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14028" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14028">Colin Holderman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9568" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9568">Dennis Santana</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12527" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12527">Justin Lawrence</a> or southpaw <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10333" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10333">Caleb Ferguson</a>.Pittsburgh optioned Bednar to open a spot on the active roster for the club's No. 3 prospect, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17525" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17525">Thomas Harrington</a>, who will start Tuesday's game at Tampa Bay in his MLB debut. To open a 40-man roster spot for Harrington, catcher Jason Delay was designated for assignment.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 30: David Bednar #51 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches against the Miami Marlins in the ninth inning of the game at loanDepot park on March 30, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Pirates option former All-Star closer Bednar to Triple-A

Even after a difficult ending to his final season in Houston, Justin Verlander and the Astros wan...

Even after a difficult ending to his final season in Houston, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/195">Justin Verlander</a> and the Astros wanted to keep their union going in 2025.However, the future Hall of Fame pitcher - who signed a one-year, $15-million deal with the San Francisco Giants in January - said this week that owner Jim Crane quashed any chance of his staying in Houston."Jim is like, 'We're not even in a place to make an offer right now,'" Verlander told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6245536/2025/03/31/justin-verlander-astros-reunion-hall-of-fame-cap/">Chandler Rome of The Athletic</a>, adding that he was in touch with Crane "a lot" during the winter. "I appreciated the candidness. That was kind of that for me."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 42-year-old put up a career-worst 5.48 ERA over just 17 starts due to injuries in his final season with the Astros. He was eventually left off the playoff roster for the team's wild-card series against Detroit. Still, the 2017 ALCS MVP told Rome he wasn't ready to leave the Astros again, and there was "mutual interest" in getting a deal done.But when the time came, the Astros were apparently unwilling to stretch their payroll to make it work. Houston's 2025 payroll of approximately $239 million is just below the first luxury tax threshold of $241 million, according to <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/tax/_/year/2025">Spotrac</a>, and it would have soared above that mark by re-signing Verlander. Throughout the offseason, the Astros operated as though they was unable to cross the threshold, sources told Rome."We don't really stay focused on that," Crane said when asked if he gave the front office a mandate to stay below the tax line, per Rome. "We really stay focused on winning and putting the best combination of players we can put on the field."Houston did shed some payroll during the offseason by trading star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> and relief ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3675" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3675">Ryan Pressly</a> to the Cubs, and allowing longtime third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> to leave in free agency. Additionally, Left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a>, a pending free agent, recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247579" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247579">revealed</a> he hasn't received any extension offers from the team.However, the Astros also made at least one win-now move by signing veteran first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">Christian Walker</a> to a three-year, $60-million deal.Over his seven-plus seasons with the Astros (interrupted by a brief detour to the Mets in 2023), Verlander won a pair of Cy Young awards and the 2017 ALCS MVP while pitching the club to three AL pennants and two World Series titles. He owns the lowest WHIP (0.92) and fifth-lowest ERA (2.71) in Astros history.

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 16: Justin. Verlander #35 of the San Francisco Giants watches his teammates throw in the bullpen at Scottsdale Stadium on February 16, 2025 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

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Verlander: Astros said they weren't 'in a place' to make offer despite interest

The New York Yankees added a familiar arm to their bullpen, signing veteran reliever Adam Ottavin...

The New York Yankees added a familiar arm to their bullpen, signing veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1518" href="/wbc/players/1518">Adam Ottavino</a> to a major-league contract, they announced Tuesday.Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.This will mark Ottavino's second stint with the Yankees, as he previously pitched for them in 2019 and 2020.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The New York City native spent the last three seasons across town with the Mets, where he was an effective reliever who could work in multiple situations. Although his ERA spiked to 4.34 over 56 innings in 2024, his 11.3 K/9 rate was his highest in four years, and he also countered the higher ERA with a 3.67 FIP.However, the 39-year-old, who spent spring training with the Boston Red Sox, was roughed up in Grapefruit League play. Ottavino was released by Boston last week after posting a 10.80 ERA with eight strikeouts and five walks in five spring appearances.Ottavino will likely pitch in more of a middle-relief role with the Yankees, adding some depth to a relief corps that includes left-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8824" href="/mlb/players/8824">Tim Hill</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5350" href="/mlb/players/5350">Ryan Yarbrough</a>, plus righties <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/12547" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12547">Yoendrys Gómez</a>.The 14-year veteran owns a lifetime 3.49 ERA, 3.61 FIP, and 1.28 WHIP with 859 strikeouts and 46 saves across 724 big-league appearances with five teams.To make room for Ottavino on the 40-man roster, the Yankees transferred right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10601" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10601">JT Brubaker</a> to the 60-day injured list. New York also placed closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> on the paternity list to open Ottavino's spot on the active 26-man roster.

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 08: Mets pitcher Adam Ottavino (0) during a game between the New York Mets and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field in Denver, CO on August 08, 2024.

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Yankees sign veteran reliever Ottavino to MLB deal

Cleveland Guardians star third baseman José Ramírez avoided serious injury after leaving Saturday...

Cleveland Guardians star third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4066" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4066">José Ramírez</a> avoided serious injury after leaving Saturday's game against the Kansas City Royals with a right wrist sprain, manager Stephen Vogt announced.While he was held out of the lineup for Sunday's series finale, the Guardians are anticipating Ramírez will be ready to return Monday."He passed all the tests (and the) imaging was negative," Vogt said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/jose-ramirez-not-in-guardians-lineup-vs-royals">Tim Stebbins of MLB.com</a>. "He's just day to day, hopefully ready to go (Monday). He could be available off the bench today in a big spot. We also want to be super cautious with this and make sure it doesn't turn into something that’s going to linger."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12316" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12316">Gabriel Arias</a> replaced Ramírez at third base in the sixth inning of Saturday's game. Ramírez appeared to suffer the injury when he attempted to steal a base in the third frame. He was initially listed as day-to-day by the club.The 32-year-old was hitless in two at-bats with one walk before exiting. Ramírez has been a hallmark of consistency, making at least 152 appearances in each of the last four seasons.Ramírez enjoyed the best campaign of his career in 2024, setting new highs in runs (114), RBIs (118), stolen bases (41), and games played (158) to finish fifth in American League MVP voting.

KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 29: Cleveland Guardians third base José Ramírez (11) before an MLB game between the Cleveland Guardians and Kansas City Royals on March 29, 2025 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Guardians' Ramírez avoids serious wrist injury, could play Monday

The Toronto Blue Jays placed right-hander Max Scherzer on the 15-day injured list Sunday with rig...

The Toronto Blue Jays placed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> on the 15-day injured list Sunday with right thumb inflammation.Left-hander Easton Lucas was recalled from Triple-A Buffalo in a corresponding move.Scherzer's first start in a Blue Jays uniform Saturday <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3253383" href="https://thescore.com/news/3253383">ended</a> after just three innings because of what the team initially called right lat soreness. He first felt the tight lat during warmups and tried to gut through it but removed himself after 45 pitches.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Scherzer is dealing with a recurring thumb issue that flared up late in spring training. He said postgame that the lat issue is "100% related to the thumb," according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1906109214704955475">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>. The 40-year-old will now visit a hand specialist in the U.S. on Monday to determine his next steps, manager John Schneider said Sunday, per <a href="https://www.boxingscene.com/articles/terms-agreed-for-naoya-inoue-murodjon-akhmadaliev-in-japan-in-september-say-eddie-hearn">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>."Yeah, I'm frustrated," Scherzer said Saturday, per <a href="http://torontosun.com/sports/baseball/toronto-blue-jays/recipe-for-disaster-thumb-issues-blowing-up-on-blue-jays-starter-max-scherzer">Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun</a>. "I want to pitch. I know I can pitch. I know I can throw the ball really well. Unfortunately I've got an issue going on. It's coming from the thumb and I've got to address this."I've got to zero out that thumb before I can pitch again."The three-time Cy Young winner has struggled to stay healthy over the last few years. He underwent back surgery following an injury sustained while pitching in the 2023 World Series. He made just nine starts last season with the Rangers due to his rehab, as well as shoulder and hamstring issues.Scherzer, who signed a one-year, $15-million contract with Toronto in February, sits 92 strikeouts shy of 3,500 for his career.Lucas, who replaces Scherzer on the active roster, posted a 10.80 ERA across 11 2/3 total big-league innings in 2024 with the Athletics, Tigers, and Blue Jays. He will be in the bullpen and active on Sunday but is also a candidate to take Scherzer's spot in the rotation, Schneider said, according to Matheson. Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17237">Yariel Rodríguez</a> is also a potential rotation option.Scherzer's next start had been scheduled for Friday against the New York Mets at Citi Field.Toronto also selected left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16294" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16294">Mason Fluharty</a> from Triple-A Buffalo, while designating veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9557" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9557">Richard Lovelady</a> for assignment.

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 29: Max Scherzer #31 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches in the first inning of their MLB game against the Baltimore Orioles at Rogers Centre on March 29, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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