The Tampa Bay Rays announced Wednesday that they have begun exclusive negotiations concerning the...

<p>The Tampa Bay Rays announced Wednesday that they have begun exclusive negotiations concerning the possible sale of the team, according to <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/1935386214573732010">MLB.com's Mark Feinsand</a>.</p><p>The Rays statement identified the interested group led by Patrick Zalupski, Bill Cosgrove, and Ken Babby, and "prominent Tampa Bay investors."</p><p>It stated no further comments would be made from either party during their discussions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Zalupski, a Jacksonville developer, has signed a letter of intent to purchase the Rays in a deal that values the team at roughly $1.7 billion, sources told <a href="https://www.sportico.com/business/team-sales/2025/tampa-bay-rays-sale-new-owner-patrick-zalupski-deal-1234856945/">Scott Soshnick and Kurt Badenhausen of Sportico</a>. </p><p>A letter of intent is not a purchase agreement and does not guarantee the completion of the deal, Soshnick and Badenhausen added.</p><p>It was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3238107" href="https://thescore.com/news/3238107">reported</a> in March that MLB commissioner Rob Manfred and several team owners were pressuring Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg to sell the team amid concerns surrounding its long-term future.</p><p>Tampa Bay is playing its home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field, one of the New York Yankees' minor-league stadiums, while Tropicana Field is being repaired from damages caused last year by Hurricane Milton.</p><p>The Rays' current ownership backed out of a proposed deal to build a new stadium in St. Petersburg as part of a larger development project in March. </p><p>A Sternberg-led group originally bought the Rays in 2004. </p><p> </p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - JULY 02: A view of the Tampa Bay Rays logo during an MLB game between the Tampa Bay Rays and Kansas City Royals on July 02, 2024 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Rays announce they have started negotiations to sell team

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is convinced Randy Vásquez plunked Shohei Ohtani on purp...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is convinced <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14200" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14200">Randy Vásquez</a> plunked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> on purpose in the third inning of Tuesday night's heated 8-6 victory over the San Diego Padres. </p><p>Vásquez hit Ohtani in the leg with a fastball inside after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5880" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5880">Lou Trivino</a> hit <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8286" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8286">Fernando Tatis Jr.</a> in the top half of the inning. The umpiring crew responded by issuing both teams a warning, which led Roberts to lose his temper and ultimately get ejected.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/shohei-ohtani-hit-by-pitch-rwfs9u?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/shohei-ohtani-hit-by-pitch-rwfs9u?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Absolutely," Roberts said on whether Vásquez hit Ohtani intentionally, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6434002/2025/06/17/dodgers-padres-incident-ejection-june/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=mlbtw&amp;source=mlbtw">Fabian Ardaya and Dennis Lin of The Athletic</a>. </p><p>"He hasn't come close. For me, if they feel that's warranted on their side, part of baseball, that’s what they feel. I give him credit because they hit him in the leg. Own it, and we move on. It's not a misfire."</p><p>Vásquez, meanwhile, chalked up hitting Ohtani to following the game plan they had for pitching to him. </p><p>"The plan that we had beforehand was to execute a pitch that was inside, a fastball that was inside," he said. "We were able to execute it."</p><p>Los Angeles tagged Vásquez for three runs through five innings before erupting for five more in the sixth off reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15393" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15393">Jeremiah Estrada</a>. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8289" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8289">Will Smith</a> put the Dodgers ahead for good with a two-run homer. </p><p>"We love the passion," Smith said postgame. "We love (Roberts') commitment to winning and competitiveness, standing up for what’s right. So you know when he’s mad, probably something has gone wrong."</p><p>Dodgers reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17229" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17229">Matt Sauer</a> later hit Padres infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1660" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1660">Jose Iglesias</a> in the wrist in the seventh inning, but he wasn't ejected.</p><p>The clubs continue their four-game series on Wednesday night. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 17, 2025: Dodgers manager runs onto the field to complain after Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani (17) was hit by a pitch and umpires issued a warning to both teams in the third inning at Dodger Stadium on June 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Roberts was ejected.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Roberts: Padres 'absolutely' hit Ohtani on purpose

Welcome to the second edition of theScore's 2025 Rookie of the Year rankings, where we look at th...

<p><em>Welcome to the second edition of theScore's 2025 Rookie of the Year rankings, where we look at the top five rookies in each league. Odds courtesy of theScore Bet and ESPN Bet.</em></p><h3>American League</h3><p><strong>5. Noah Cameron, Royals</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790828/cropped_GettyImages-2220286406.jpg?ts=1750174111" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790828/w220xh124_GettyImages-2220286406.jpg?ts=1750174111 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790828/w320xh180_GettyImages-2220286406.jpg?ts=1750174111 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790828/w640xh360_GettyImages-2220286406.jpg?ts=1750174111 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790828/w768xh432_GettyImages-2220286406.jpg?ts=1750174111 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790828/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2220286406.jpg?ts=1750174111 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ed Zurga / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>IP</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
<th> ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>42.1</td>
<td>1.91</td>
<td>3.64</td>
<td>32</td>
<td>0.90</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Outside of one rough outing against the New York Yankees, Cameron has been incredible. He hasn't allowed more than a single earned run in any of his other six starts, five of which have lasted at least six innings. His FIP and underlying metrics suggest this level of success likely isn't sustainable, but Cameron undoubtedly deserves a place on this list.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>4. Shane Smith, White Sox</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790560/cropped_GettyImages-2219609997.jpg?ts=1749991716" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790560/w220xh124_GettyImages-2219609997.jpg?ts=1749991716 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790560/w320xh180_GettyImages-2219609997.jpg?ts=1749991716 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790560/w640xh360_GettyImages-2219609997.jpg?ts=1749991716 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790560/w768xh432_GettyImages-2219609997.jpg?ts=1749991716 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790560/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2219609997.jpg?ts=1749991716 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>IP</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>72.2</td>
<td>2.85</td>
<td>3.53</td>
<td>66</td>
<td>1.22</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The right-hander has deployed a five-pitch mix, headlined by a fastball that averages 95.2 mph, to impressive results. Smith has struggled to get batters to chase consistently, yet still has found success by limiting their quality of contact. He has only allowed more than three earned runs in one of his 14 starts and has only failed to complete five innings three times.</p><p><strong>3. Chase Meidroth, White Sox</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784003/cropped_GettyImages-2213124037.jpg?ts=1746374981" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784003/w220xh124_GettyImages-2213124037.jpg?ts=1746374981 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784003/w320xh180_GettyImages-2213124037.jpg?ts=1746374981 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784003/w640xh360_GettyImages-2213124037.jpg?ts=1746374981 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784003/w768xh432_GettyImages-2213124037.jpg?ts=1746374981 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784003/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2213124037.jpg?ts=1746374981 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Matt Dirksen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>fWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>50</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>.695</td>
<td>1.1</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Meidroth is putting together a strong rookie campaign after being dealt to Chicago in the Garrett Crochet trade. His counting stats don't jump off the page, but he's managed a .358 on-base percentage and the fourth-most fWAR among AL rookie position players. He's also displayed great range at shortstop, ranking in the 89th percentile for outs above average.<strong> </strong></p><p><strong>2. Carlos Narváez, Red Sox</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789730/cropped_GettyImages-2218750869.jpg?ts=1749567093" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789730/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218750869.jpg?ts=1749567093 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789730/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218750869.jpg?ts=1749567093 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789730/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218750869.jpg?ts=1749567093 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789730/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218750869.jpg?ts=1749567093 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789730/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218750869.jpg?ts=1749567093 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rob Tringali / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>fWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>57</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>.814</td>
<td>2.5</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>With more playing time, Narváez has continued to impress - his 2.5 fWAR, .814 OPS, and 127 wRC+ rank second among AL rookies. He's also solidified himself as an elite defensive catcher since the last edition of these rankings, scoring well above average in every metric. He's someone to watch amid the youth movement in Boston.</p><p><strong>1. Jacob Wilson, Athletics</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789729/cropped_GettyImages-2218697606.jpg?ts=1749566913" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789729/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218697606.jpg?ts=1749566913 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789729/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218697606.jpg?ts=1749566913 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789729/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218697606.jpg?ts=1749566913 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789729/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218697606.jpg?ts=1749566913 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789729/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218697606.jpg?ts=1749566913 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Lachlan Cunningham / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>fWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>69</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>.903</td>
<td>3.4</td>
<td>-600</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Wilson is putting together an all-time great rookie season. The 23-year-old ranks second in the league in total hits (98) and batting average (.360) behind only Aaron Judge. He isn't just hitting for contact either, as his<strong> </strong>eight home runs are also tops among AL rookies. Wilson has the look of a franchise cornerstone for the Athletics, and the award is his to lose, barring a massive slump or injury.</p><h3>National League</h3><p><strong>5. Liam Hicks, Marlins</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789749/cropped_GettyImages-2218490057.jpg?ts=1749569896" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789749/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218490057.jpg?ts=1749569896 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789749/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218490057.jpg?ts=1749569896 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789749/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218490057.jpg?ts=1749569896 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789749/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218490057.jpg?ts=1749569896 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789749/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218490057.jpg?ts=1749569896 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Megan Briggs / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>fWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>45</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>.812</td>
<td>0.8</td>
<td>+6000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Canadian catcher's game doesn't jump off the page, but he does a few things very well. One of them is putting the ball in play: Hicks' 19 strikeouts are the fewest among NL rookies with at least 120 at-bats, and he's done so while racking up a respectable 12 extra-base hits.<strong> </strong>Hicks is also second among NL rookies with 25 RBIs<strong>. </strong></p><p><strong>4. Hyeseong Kim, Dodgers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790562/cropped_GettyImages-2218932824.jpg?ts=1749992106" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790562/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218932824.jpg?ts=1749992106 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790562/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218932824.jpg?ts=1749992106 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790562/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218932824.jpg?ts=1749992106 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790562/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218932824.jpg?ts=1749992106 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790562/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218932824.jpg?ts=1749992106 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ronald Martinez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>fWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>11</td>
<td>.969</td>
<td>0.9</td>
<td>+1800</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Kim has only played in 30 games this season, but he's already accrued the third-most fWAR (0.9) among all rookie position players in the NL. While he's not likely to maintain a 175 wRC+ the rest of the way, his expected batting average (.293) suggests the hits are for real. He's also already stolen six bases thanks to his legitimate speed. Clearly, Kim is in a great situation as a productive, versatile player in a loaded lineup.</p><p><strong>3. Chad Patrick, Brewers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786706/cropped_GettyImages-2214071235.jpg?ts=1747847865" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786706/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214071235.jpg?ts=1747847865 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786706/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214071235.jpg?ts=1747847865 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786706/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214071235.jpg?ts=1747847865 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786706/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214071235.jpg?ts=1747847865 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786706/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214071235.jpg?ts=1747847865 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>IP</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>79.2</td>
<td>3.50</td>
<td>3.59</td>
<td>76</td>
<td>1.28</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Patrick has delivered both quality and quantity: his 79 2/3 innings and 1.6 fWAR are both tops among NL rookie pitchers.<strong> </strong>He's delivered five quality starts and only allowed more than three earned runs in a game twice all year.<strong> </strong>The young pitcher has been a great story for the Brewers and looks capable of keeping this up despite pedestrian strikeout numbers.</p><p><strong>2. Ben Casparius, Dodgers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789744/cropped_GettyImages-2218057969.jpg?ts=1749569001" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789744/w220xh124_GettyImages-2218057969.jpg?ts=1749569001 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789744/w320xh180_GettyImages-2218057969.jpg?ts=1749569001 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789744/w640xh360_GettyImages-2218057969.jpg?ts=1749569001 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789744/w768xh432_GettyImages-2218057969.jpg?ts=1749569001 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789744/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2218057969.jpg?ts=1749569001 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Nicole Vasquez / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>IP</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>47.2</td>
<td>3.02</td>
<td>2.23</td>
<td>48</td>
<td>1.03</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The 26-year-old has been a stabilizing arm amid the Dodgers' seemingly never-ending rash of pitching injuries. Casparius has limited free passes and hard contact exceptionally well - his 5.2% walk rate and 31.3 hard-hit% both rank in the 89th percentile or better - and his 2.23 FIP suggests he's been somewhat unlucky and could improve on his already good 3.02 ERA. His recent move to the starting rotation should only boost his stock.</p><p><strong>1. Drake Baldwin, Braves</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789738/cropped_GettyImages-2217878009.jpg?ts=1749568171" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789738/w220xh124_GettyImages-2217878009.jpg?ts=1749568171 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789738/w320xh180_GettyImages-2217878009.jpg?ts=1749568171 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789738/w640xh360_GettyImages-2217878009.jpg?ts=1749568171 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789738/w768xh432_GettyImages-2217878009.jpg?ts=1749568171 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789738/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2217878009.jpg?ts=1749568171 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cole Carter / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>fWAR</th>
<th>ODDS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>47</td>
<td> 7</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>.800</td>
<td>1.5</td>
<td>+225</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Even if Baldwin has fallen back to earth a bit, he's still putting up great numbers. His fWAR (1.5) leads all qualified NL rookie position players, his seven home runs are tied for second, and his wRC+ (123) and OPS (.800) rank top three.<strong> </strong>The underlying metrics are also encouraging, as he's hitting the ball hard without striking out very much. Defensively, Baldwin has thrown out runners at an above-average clip while grading in the 77th percentile for framing. He's the complete package and the NL's most valuable rookie.</p>

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MLB Rookie Rankings: Wilson, Baldwin early front-runners 

The Toronto Blue Jays are shaking up their pitching staff.   The club announced Tuesday they plac...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays are shaking up their pitching staff. </p><p>The club announced Tuesday they placed struggling starting pitching <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12435" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12435">Bowden Francis</a> on the injured list with a right shoulder impingement and designated reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10603" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10603">Erik Swanson</a> for assignment.</p><p>Toronto recalled right-hander Paxton Schultz and selected the contract of lefty Justin Bruihl from Triple-A in the corresponding roster shuffle. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Francis doesn't have any structural damage in his shoulder, manager John Schneider said, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1935071999052923059">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>.</p><p>The 29-year-old has been one of MLB's least effective pitchers after impressing in the second half of the 2024 season. He owns a 6.05 ERA (69 ERA+) and 1.53 WHIP through 14 starts and completed five innings only once in his last six outings. However, some of that came while he was hurt, as Schneider acknowledged Tuesday that Francis had been battling the shoulder impingement for his last two-to-three starts, per <a href="https://x.com/ArdenZwelling/status/1935073872371499503">Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling</a>.</p><p>Swanson, meanwhile, started the season on the injured list and has struggled mightily since returning to the mound. He's allowed nine earned runs on eight hits in just 5 1/3 innings pitched. </p><p>He posted a 5.03 ERA last year in a disappointing follow-up to an excellent 2023 campaign, his first in Toronto after being acquired from the Seattle Mariners in a trade for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a>.</p><p>Toronto remains without pitchers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3943" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3943">Yimi García</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12325" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12325">Nick Sandlin</a>, all of whom were expected to fill large roles. Scherzer will make another rehab start in Triple-A on Wednesday. He could come off the IL next week, depending on the results of his outing, <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1935072190258430052">Nicholson-Smith</a> added.</p><p>The Blue Jays' staff entered Tuesday with the fourth-worst ERA (4.22) in the American League.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

SEATTLE, WA - MAY 10: Starting pitcher Bowden Francis #44 of the Toronto Blue Jays walks off the field during a game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on May 10, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. The Blue Jays own 6-3.

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Blue Jays place Francis on IL with shoulder injury, DFA Swanson

Shohei Ohtani was feeling emotional after making his long-awaited pitching debut as a member of t...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani </a>was feeling emotional after making his long-awaited pitching debut as a member of the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday night.</p><p>"I'm just really grateful, reflecting back on all the support that I received from the doctors that operated on me, the support staff, the team and everybody who supported me along the way," he said after Los Angeles' 6-3 victory over the San Diego Padres, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/shohei-ohtani-makes-dodgers-pitching-debut">Sonja Chen of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>The two-way phenom allowed one run on two hits in his first inning of work since 2023. He threw 28 pitches in the abbreviated outing, including a fastball that exceeded 100 mph and another at 99.9 mph.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He gave up a sacrifice fly to Padres third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2577" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2577">Manny Machado</a> after allowing back-to-back singles, then retired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12551" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12551">Gavin Sheets</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3629" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3629">Xander Bogaerts</a> via ground balls to avoid further damage.</p><p>The usually unflappable star admitted to feeling some nerves while pitching in front of a packed Dodger Stadium. </p><p>"Definitely a little bit more than when I was solely a position player," he said. </p><p>Ohtani went 2-4 with two RBIs at the plate as the designated hitter. He's scored the most runs in all of baseball (73) and leads the National League with 25 homers and a 1.039 OPS (190 OPS+). </p><p>He's eyeing a more prolonged appearance his next time out. </p><p>"I did hit 100 today, so I want to see first where my body feels and how it reacts," Ohtani said. "But the expectation is for me to go once a week, hopefully to be able to go a little longer every time I'm out there so that the bullpen won't be so taxed."</p><p>Los Angeles will take whatever length it can get from Ohtani, as 14 of its pitchers are currently on the injured list.</p><p>Ohtani owns a career 3.02 ERA with an 11.3 K/9 as a pitcher. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

Los Angeles, CA - June 16:Shohei Ohtani's walks on the field to pitch for the Dodgers against the Padres at Dodger Stadium on Monday, June 16, 2025. This was the first time on the mound for Shohei Ohtani in a Dodger uniform.

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Ohtani 'really grateful' after making Dodgers pitching debut

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages believes San Diego Padres pitcher Dylan Cease hit him o...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12702" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12702">Andy Pages</a> believes San Diego Padres pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a> hit him on purpose in Monday night's game.</p><p>Pages gave Cease a piece of his mind after the right-hander drilled him with a fastball inside in the bottom of the fourth inning.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/andy-pages-hit-by-pitch-max-muncy-to-2nd?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/andy-pages-hit-by-pitch-max-muncy-to-2nd?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I probably shouldn't have reacted like that, but he doesn't miss with a slider on the corner, yet he can miss with a fastball?" Pages said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45529367/dodgers-andy-pages-fired-hit-dylan-cease-pitch">Alden Gonzalez of ESPN</a>. </p><p>Pages added: "I tried to find a way to apologize."</p><p>Cease, meanwhile, came away from the altercation feeling confused, despite the teams' longstanding rivalry.</p><p>"I didn't understand it," he said of Pages' reaction. "It's not going to deter me from throwing inside. I don't know if I've ever hit a Dodger before. It just happens. It's part of the game."</p><p>Pages came around to score on a single from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> in what became a five-run inning for the Dodgers. Cease allowed six earned runs over five innings pitched with nine strikeouts.</p><p>Los Angeles won the game 6-3 with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18594" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18594">Ben Casparius</a> picking up the win in relief of Ohtani, who opened the game on the mound in what was his first pitching appearance since 2023. </p><p>Pages has accrued 2.5 fWAR while hitting .282/.323/.483 with 13 home runs and 46 RBIs for the Dodgers so far this season. </p><p>The NL West rivals will continue their series on Wednesday night. </p>

Los Angeles, CA - June 16:Dodgers Andy Pages, #44, is restrained by the umpire after he was hit on a wild pitch by Padres Dylan Cease during 4th inning action at Dodger Stadium on Monday, June 16, 2025. The Dodger defeated the Padres 6-3.

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Dodgers' Pages frustrated by Cease HBP, admits he overreacted

The New York Yankees announced Monday that they reinstated slugger Giancarlo Stanton from the 60-...

<p>The New York Yankees announced Monday that they reinstated slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a> from the 60-day injured list.</p><p>The five-time All-Star has been sidelined with tendinitis in both elbows. He's batting fifth as the designated hitter in Monday's lineup against the Los Angeles Angels in what will be his season debut. </p><p>New York designated utility man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5742" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5742">Pablo Reyes</a> for assignment in a corresponding roster move. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stanton enjoyed a somewhat resurgent campaign in 2024, hitting 27 home runs with 72 RBIs in 114 games. The .773 OPS (114 OPS+) he recorded was his highest since 2021.</p><p>Stanton also authored several memorable moments throughout New York's run to the World Series. He was named ALCS MVP and homered two times in the Fall Classic against the Los Angeles Dodgers.</p><p>How the Yankees deploy their lineup around Stanton is to be determined. New York has used <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16165">Ben Rice</a> as its designated hitter for much of 2025, but he could see time at catcher to accommodate.</p><p>Rice could also form a platoon with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1851" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a> at first base. </p><p>Stanton, 35, is in the 11th season of a 13-year, $325-million contract he originally signed with the Miami Marlins.</p><p>He is MLB's active home run leader with 429 for his career.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 07: Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees takes batting practice before the game against the San Diego Padres at Yankee Stadium on May 7, 2025 in New York, New York.

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Yankees reinstate Stanton from IL ahead of season debut

The San Francisco Giants weren't the only team interested in trading for Rafael Devers before Sun...

<p>The San Francisco Giants weren't the only team interested in trading for Rafael Devers before Sunday's blockbuster deal.</p><p>While there's little evidence the Red Sox were shopping him, the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays were among the teams that called Boston to inquire about Devers' availability, <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/06/how-rafael-devers-went-from-face-of-red-sox-franchise-to-unsalvageable-situation-shocking-trade-sean-mcadam.html">Sean McAdam of MassLive</a> reports.</p><p>None of those clubs were as motivated as the Giants, McAdam adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>San Francisco ultimately <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3300663" href="https://thescore.com/news/3300663">acquired</a> the three-time All-Star for Kyle Harrison, Jordan Hicks, and two prospects. The Giants are on the hook for the remaining $254.5 million Devers is owed over the next eight seasons.</p><p>Devers' refusal to work out at first base following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12885" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12885">Triston Casas</a>' season-ending injury led the organization to believe he'd no longer do what was best for the team, and it considered the situation unsalvageable, sources told McAdam.</p><p>This came after Devers' public spat with the front office for the decision to move him off third base after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> signed during the offseason.</p><p>Devers hasn't let off-field drama affect his play in 2025. The 28-year-old appeared in an MLB-high 73 games as a designated hitter while slashing .272/.401/.504 with 15 home runs and 58 RBIs.</p><p>He owns a career .859 OPS (129 OPS+) through nine seasons. </p><p>The Giants entered Monday two games back of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West with a 41-31 record. The 37-36 Red Sox, meanwhile, are 6.5 games back of the first-place New York Yankees in the AL East.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 13: Rafael Devers #11 of the Boston Red Sox looks on in the tenth inning against the New York Yankees at Fenway Park on June 13, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Report: Braves, Padres, Blue Jays inquired about Devers' availability

Boston Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet stood by his decision to pitch Aaron Judge aggressively in the...

<p>Boston Red Sox ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> stood by his decision to pitch <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> aggressively in the ninth inning of Friday night's dramatic 2-1 victory over the New York Yankees.</p><p>Crochet took the mound with a 1-0 lead, vying for a complete-game shutout. He'd struck out Judge in his three previous at-bats - and in six straight dating back to their last matchup - but threw a fastball in the zone on a full count that the two-time MVP crushed for a game-tying home run.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/aaron-judge-ties-game-on-115-5-mph-443-ft-home-run?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/aaron-judge-ties-game-on-115-5-mph-443-ft-home-run?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm going to live and die with my best pitch," Crochet said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45510684/aaron-judge-solves-garrett-crochet-red-sox-get-last-laugh">ESPN</a>. "Whether it be pitch selection or execution, tough way to end it. But overall, I felt really good tonight."</p><p>Crochet then departed the game, allowing just one earned run on four hits with seven strikeouts over 8 1/3 innings.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1366" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1366">Aroldis Chapman</a> recorded the final two outs of the ninth before giving way to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12582" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12582">Garrett Whitlock</a> in the tenth. He picked up the win as Boston won on a walk-off single from catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14562">Carlos Narváez</a>. </p><p>"It was a special feeling jogging back out there (for the ninth)," Crochet said. "Standing (ovation). I could tell the fans wanted me out there. I already wanted to be out there pretty bad. But it made it mean a little bit more. It made me grab a little bit more in that inning. I wish I could have finished it out. ... If my night had to end there from a home run, I'm at least glad that it was on a fastball."</p><p>Crochet has been fantastic in his first season with the Red Sox. The left-hander owns a 2.24 ERA (184 ERA+) and 1.03 WHIP with an American League-leading 117 strikeouts through 15 starts.</p><p>Boston acquired Crochet from the Chicago White Sox for a package of prospects during the offseason and inked him to a six-year, $170-million extension before the season started. </p><p>"He's an incredible pitcher," Judge said. "That's why they traded for him. He works both sides of the plate (and) has overpowering stuff. I was trying to get on base to start a rally, and I was happy to tie it."</p><p>Boston will send <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18694" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18694">Hunter Dobbins</a> to the mound opposite <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a> in the second game of its series against the Yankees on Saturday.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - JUNE 13: Starting pitcher Garrett Crochet #35 of the Boston Red Sox throws in the first inning against the New York Yankees at Fenway Park on June 13, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Crochet doesn't regret Judge at-bat: 'Live and die with my best pitch' 

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Chris Bassitt praised his teammates following Tuesday's 10-9 v...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a> praised his teammates following Tuesday's 10-9 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.</p><p>"I'm just really proud of this team," Bassitt said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/andres-gimenez-hr-leads-blue-jays-to-win-over-cardinals">MLB.com's Keegan Matheson</a>.</p><p>"From the second we showed up to spring training, even the offseason, I feel like we're really fighting for each other, really working together. It's hard to beat us when we're doing that. One through nine is doing their job, if not way more, but we're playing a very unselfish brand of baseball."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto won for the 10th time in its last 12 contests and improved to a season-high seven games over .500.</p><p>Bassitt allowed four earned runs over seven innings pitched. The offense racked up 16 hits behind him, the biggest of which was a three-run home run off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andres Giménez</a>'s bat in the first inning.</p><p>The right-hander believes the lessons learned from last year's struggles have paved the way for the Blue Jays to play better baseball. </p><p>"Sometimes you've gotta go through some (crap) to basically get exposed and then fix issues," Bassitt said, according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1932640185805599135">Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet</a>. "Last year, I definitely never want to go through it again, but it exposed a lot of things and tested a lot of people."</p><p>An improved offense has powered Toronto's turnaround after finishing last in the American League East in 2024. The Blue Jays lead the AL in runs scored (187) and rank second in wRC+ (122) since May 1st. </p><p>Toronto has gone 23-14 during that time frame despite injuries to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9524" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9524">Daulton Varsho</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3943" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3943">Yimi García</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a>.</p><p>"Hopefully we get back to full strength and it gets that much better, but the way they're going about it right now is professional and pretty f-----g awesome," manager John Schneider said, per <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/1932630235511488569">Matheson</a>.</p><p>The Blue Jays will look to complete a three-game sweep of the Cardinals on Wednesday afternoon. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

ST. LOUIS, MO - JUNE 10: Chris Bassitt #40 of the Toronto Blue Jays pitches during the game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Bassitt praises Blue Jays' recent play: 'Really proud of this team'

The Baltimore Orioles are getting some much-needed reinforcements.  The club announced Tuesday it...

<p>The Baltimore Orioles are getting some much-needed reinforcements.</p><p>The club announced Tuesday it reinstated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5763">Cedric Mullins</a> and infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12662" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12662">Jordan Westburg</a> from the injured list, both of whom were sidelined with hamstring strains. </p><p>Baltimore optioned <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15488" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15488">Heston Kjerstad</a> and designated <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12639" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12639">Emmanuel Rivera</a> for assignment in corresponding moves.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mullins has been the Orioles' best hitter when healthy this season. The 30-year-old posted a .771 OPS (121 OPS+) with 10 home runs, 31 RBIs, and eight stolen bases in 50 games before getting hurt. </p><p>Westburg has been limited to just 23 games in 2025 but was an All-Star last year after hitting 18 home runs with 63 RBIs. </p><p>Kjerstad has struggled to a .192/.240/.327 slash line in 156 at-bats. Rivera, meanwhile, owns a .578 OPS (69 OPS+).</p><p>The Orioles entered Tuesday with a disappointing 26-38 record. </p>

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 29: Jordan Westburg #11 and Cedric Mullins #31 of the Baltimore Orioles celebrate at in the outfiedl at the end of their MLB game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on March 29, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Orioles reinstate Mullins, Westburg from IL, option Kjerstad

The Milwaukee Brewers are promoting right-handed pitching prospect Jacob Misiorowski, sources tol...

<p>The Milwaukee Brewers are promoting right-handed pitching prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17570" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17570">Jacob Misiorowski</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1932491073869525426">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>He's expected to start Thursday against the St. Louis Cardinals. </p><p>Misiorowski, 23, is the 68th-ranked prospect on <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects">MLB Pipeline</a> and one of the hardest throwers in the minor leagues. His fastball frequently reaches triple digits and has touched 103 mph this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Milwaukee drafted Misiorowski in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft. </p><p>The 6-foot-7 fireballer racked up 80 strikeouts in 63 1/3 innings pitched at Triple-A Nashville this season. He's recorded a career 12.3 K/9 in the minor leagues but has never thrown 100 innings in a campaign.</p><p>The Brewers have a need in the rotation with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9727" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9727">Nestor Cortes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8683" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8683">Brandon Woodruff</a> still on the injured list. </p>

GOODYEAR, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 25, 2025: Jacob Misiorowski #93 of the Milwaukee Brewers throws a pitch during the first inning of a spring training game against the Cleveland Guardians at Goodyear Ballpark on February 25, 2025 in Goodyear, Arizona.

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Report: Brewers call up Misiorowski, expected to start Thursday

Athletics center fielder Denzel Clarke knows the ridiculous catch he made in Monday night's game ...

<p>Athletics center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14575" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14575">Denzel Clarke</a> knows the ridiculous catch he made in Monday night's game against the Los Angeles Angels was special. </p><p>"I'm always very tentative to say this was the best one. But I think this is probably the best one I've ever made," he said of the wall-climbing grab, according to <a href="https://x.com/MartinJGallegos/status/1932297998303994031">Martín Gallegos of MLB.com</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/nolan-schanuel-flies-out-sharply-to-center-fielder-denzel-clarke?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/nolan-schanuel-flies-out-sharply-to-center-fielder-denzel-clarke?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Angels first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17192" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17192">Nolan Schanuel</a> certainly agreed after being robbed of what appeared to be a home run. </p><p>"I sat here for like 10 minutes watching over and over," he <a href="https://x.com/MartinJGallegos/status/1932302041852051626">said</a>. "A bunch of my friends sent it to me. It stings. But it's kind of like I get a little part of history with it, because we'll see that catch for years and years."</p><p>The Angels ultimately won the game 7-4 behind a gem from starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10619" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10619">Yusei Kikuchi</a>. Schanuel added two hits and an RBI. </p><p>Clarke, 25, has burst onto the scene as one of the best defensive outfielders in baseball as a rookie. He's already been worth eight outs above average with a fielding run value of seven. </p><p>The Toronto native also ranks 94th percentile in sprint speed. </p><p>Game two of the clubs' three-game series gets underway Tuesday night. </p><p> </p><p> </p>

ANAHEIM, CA - JUNE 09: Denzel Clarke #1 of the Athletics makes a catch in the outfield during the game between the Athletics and the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on Monday, June 9, 2025 in Anaheim, California.

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Athletics' Clarke: Catch vs. Angels 'best one I've ever made'

It's the call that all of New England has been waiting for.  The Boston Red Sox have promoted out...

<p>It's the call that all of New England has been waiting for.</p><p>The Boston Red Sox have promoted outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17320" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17320">Roman Anthony</a> - baseball's consensus No. 1 prospect - to the majors, they announced Monday.</p><p>Anthony will make his big-league debut on Monday batting fifth and playing right field against the Tampa Bay Rays at Fenway Park. His presence also saw <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17342" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17342">Kristian Campbell</a> slide from center field to second base and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13703" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13703">Ceddanne Rafaela</a> from right to center, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a> will man left.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Boston also placed outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13925" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13925">Wilyer Abreu</a> on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain in a corresponding move. To clear a 40-man roster spot for Anthony, first baseman/outfielder Ryan Noda was designated for assignment.</p><p>Anthony himself confirmed the call-up as he drove out of Worcester, Massachusetts, before the news broke officially. He arrived at Polar Park ready to board the WooSox bus for a road trip to Lehigh Valley, only to find himself being redirected east to Boston.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Roman Anthony, the top prospect in baseball, has been called up to the Red Sox. From the man himself. <a href="https://t.co/VwP5uBzyU4">pic.twitter.com/VwP5uBzyU4</a></p>— Katie Morrison-O'Day (@KatieMo61) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatieMo61/status/1932163795838963773?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"He (Worcester manager Chad Tracy) sent us a message and said, 'Hey, we're gonna delay the bus. Something might be going on at the top.' Didn't really think anything of it," Anthony said after arriving at Fenway, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/06/roman-anthony-expected-4-hour-bus-ride-monday-instead-hes-in-middle-of-red-sox-lineup.html">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>. "Was waiting around in the food room with a few of the guys. Then all of the sudden, he came out and said, 'You're going to the big leagues.' From there on out, it has been a little bit of a blur.</p><p>"But it was amazing. You dream of that every single day. To finally hear it was awesome."</p><p>The 21-year-old hit .288/.423/.491 with 10 homers, 29 RBIs, and an International League-leading 51 walks over 58 games in Triple-A this season. Calls for his promotion - already mounting in the face of the Red Sox struggles - grew to a fever pitch Saturday after he demolished a 497-foot grand slam at Worcester's Polar Park.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/anthony-demolishes-a-497-foot-grand-slam?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: MLB.com)</p><p>His promotion reunites Anthony with fellow top prospects Campbell and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16199" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16199">Marcelo Mayer</a> in Beantown. Campbell made the Red Sox out of spring training and signed an eight-year, $60-million extension five games into his career, while Mayer earned his call-up last month after Alex Bregman's injury.</p><p>"It has been a long time coming," Mayer told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/06/roman-anthony-joining-red-sox-on-monday-no-1-prospect-gets-call-to-majors.html">MassLive's Cotillo, Lauren Campbell, Christopher Smith, and Katie Morrison-O'Day</a>. "It has been talked about for a very long time. It's kind of crazy today's the day we're all going to share the field together in the big leagues. I'm super excited. I think we have a really good team, and he's just another addition."</p><p>Boston is hoping the three youngsters can help snap the team out of its ongoing funk. Despite taking a series from the rival Yankees in New York over the weekend, the team enters Monday having dropped nine of 14 to fall 8 1/2 games out of first in the AL East.</p><p>The team is also missing four key members of its lineup with Bregman, first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12885" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12885">Triston Casas</a>, outfielder/DH <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15430" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15430">Masataka Yoshida</a>, and now Abreu on the IL. Cora said that Abreu's side issue emerged Monday afternoon, and it was felt he could use some extra days to recover, according to <a href="https://x.com/MacCerullo/status/1932177117175025913">Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald</a>.</p><p>The Red Sox also selected right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17407" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17407">Brian Van Belle</a> from Triple-A and DFA'd reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8961" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8961">Robert Stock</a> before Monday's game.</p>

PORT CHARLOTTE, FLORIDA - MARCH 13, 2025: Roman Anthony #48 of the Boston Red Sox runs the bases after hitting a solo home run during the fifth inning of a spring training Spring Breakout game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Charlotte Sports Complex on March 13, 2025 in Port Charlotte, Florida.

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Red Sox promote top prospect Anthony

Atlanta Braves third baseman Austin Riley is struggling to understand how his team has fallen int...

<p>Atlanta Braves third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8131" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8131">Austin Riley</a> is struggling to understand how his team has fallen into another seven-game losing streak.</p><p>"I’m a little lost for words, explanations on what it is to get us going right now," he said after Sunday's 4-3 loss to the San Francisco Giants. </p><p>"It’s a lot of disappointment and some self-reflection (around the team). You know, just trying to evaluate ourselves and what we can do to be better. A lot of guys that are in here have been a part of that (postseason streak) and know how to win. And it’s just not happening right now."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Atlanta started the season 0-7 with several key players - mainly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8292" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8292">Ronald Acuna Jr.</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13620" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13620">Spencer Strider</a> - sidelined due to injuries. </p><p>The Braves appeared primed to go on a run with those two back in the fold, but they have instead sunk to 10 games under .500 for the first time since 2017, when they finished the season 72-90.</p><p>They're currently mired in a 3-14 skid that includes eight one-run losses.</p><p>"I think when it continues and the same thing happens over and over and again, every day with the one-run games, you start trying to look for answers," Riley said. "And it’s just not happening. Like I said, kind of lost for words on what we need to do."</p><p>Riley hasn't played up to the level that earned him top-10 MVP votes from 2021-2023, but he's still posted a .783 OPS (119 OPS+) with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs through 64 games.</p><p>Atlanta entered Monday ranked 11th in the National League in runs scored. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MAY 27: Austin Riley #27 of the Atlanta Braves during the game against the Philadelphia Phillies on May 27, 2025 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Riley 'lost for words' amid Braves' latest 7-game losing skid

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw didn't appreciate the St. Louis Cardinals us...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/945" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/945">Clayton Kershaw</a> didn't appreciate the St. Louis Cardinals using his past failures as pregame hype material ahead of his start Sunday at Busch Stadium.</p><p>The Cardinals showed Matt Adams' three-run home run off Kershaw from Game 4 of the 2014 NLCS on their stadium video board in an attempt to dig up old memories.</p><p>"I think it's a little bush league, but I don't expect anything less from these guys," Kershaw said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JohnDenton555/status/1931848271435055317">MLB.com's John Denton</a>. "So, it's no worries."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Many consider Adams' home run as the lowest point in Kershaw's complicated playoff resume, which includes plenty of early-career struggles but also two World Series championships. </p><p>The 37-year-old lefty responded to the pregame trolling with his best start of the season. He struck out seven Cardinals across five innings pitched while holding them to just one run.</p><p>Los Angeles rode his strong performance to a decisive 7-3 victory. </p><p>Kershaw, now in his 18th campaign with the Dodgers, made his season debut May 17. He spent the first month-and-a-half of the year on the injured list while recovering from offseason surgeries to his knee and toe.</p><p>The three-time Cy Young Award winner is 17 strikeouts away from reaching 3,000 for his career.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 03: Clayton Kershaw #22 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches during the game between the New York Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Kershaw rips Cardinals for pregame video: 'Bush league'

Aaron Judge was well aware of Boston Red Sox pitcher Hunter Dobbins saying he'd rather retire tha...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> was well aware of Boston Red Sox pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18694" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18694">Hunter Dobbins</a> saying he'd rather retire than play for the New York Yankees ahead of the teams' head-to-head clash on Sunday Night Baseball.</p><p>"I've only heard Ken Griffey Jr. say that, so I was a little surprised," the slugger said after his team's 11-7 loss. </p><p>Judge also responded on the diamond by welcoming Dobbins to New York with an opposite-field home run in the first inning.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/aaron-judge-s-two-run-homer-22?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/aaron-judge-s-two-run-homer-22?q=Aaron%20Judge&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">MLB.com</a>)</p><p>Dobbins got the last laugh, however, picking up the win after holding New York to three runs across five innings. </p><p>"I mean, you can't really say something like that and not expect a passionate fan base like the Yankees to say something," Dobbins <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/aaron-judge-homers-off-red-sox-rookie-after-spicy-comments">said</a>. "If anything, it made the rivalry atmosphere feel a lot more fun. I enjoyed it a lot."</p><p>Red Sox catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14562">Carlos Narváez</a> chased Yankees ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a> in the sixth inning with a three-run home run. The lefty had allowed just two earned runs total over his previous four starts. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a> tacked on two more runs with a single in the sixth. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10014" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10014">Abraham Toro</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4232" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4232">Trevor Story</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> all homered off New York's relievers in the final two innings to put the game out of reach. </p><p>Judge hit his second home run of the game in the bottom of the ninth. </p><p>The 39-25 Yankees hold an 8.5-game lead over the 32-35 Red Sox in the AL East.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 08: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees looks on prior to the game between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, June 8, 2025 in New York, New York.

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Judge 'surprised' by comments from Red Sox pitcher Dobbins

The Los Angeles Angels announced Sunday that they acquired veteran outfielder LaMonte Wade Jr. an...

<p>The Los Angeles Angels announced Sunday that they acquired veteran outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8896" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8896">LaMonte Wade Jr.</a> and cash from the San Francisco Giants for a player to be named later.</p><p>The Giants had designated Wade for assignment Wednesday.</p><p>Wade, 31, owns a .167/.275/.271 slash line with one home run and 15 RBIs through 169 plate appearances this season. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The lefty was a reliable platoon bat against right-handed pitching from 2021-24, posting an OPS+ of 117 or better three separate times. He recorded a .380 on-base percentage with a .761 OPS last year.</p><p>The Angeles' current roster of outfielders - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5431" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5431">Taylor Ward</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9561" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9561">Jo Adell</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3941" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3941">Chris Taylor</a> - are all right-handed hitters. </p><p>Wade owns a career .742 OPS (108 OPS+) through seven seasons. </p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 25: LaMonte Wade Jr. #31 of the San Francisco Giants prepares for a pitch during a baseball game against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on May 25, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Angels acquire Wade from Giants for PTBNL

Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner happily shared what he said to home plate umpire Derek T...

<p>Chicago Cubs second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10637">Nico Hoerner</a> happily shared what he said to home plate umpire Derek Thomas to get himself ejected from Sunday's 4-0 loss to the Detroit Tigers.</p><p>"I don't think it's really that often you can, verbatim, say to the press afterwards what got you thrown out, so I said 'You're having a really bad day,'" he said, per <a href="https://x.com/UnderdogMLB/status/1931813058663354623">Underdog MLB</a>.</p><p>The exchange occurred after Thomas rang up Hoerner on a pitch from Tigers starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5646">Jack Flaherty</a> that appeared to be out of the zone. He made his comment and was quickly ejected.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Cubs manager Craig Counsell came to the defense of his player and also got tossed from the game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/nico-hoerner-craig-counsell-ejected-in-5th?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9864" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9864">Vidal Bruján </a>replaced Hoerner at second base and went hitless in his lone at-bat. </p><p>Flaherty and three relievers combined to shut out the Cubs on four hits. Detroit's pitching staff held Chicago's potent lineup to just seven runs total across their three-game series. </p><p>Hoerner and company will look to rebound Monday in Philadelphia against the Phillies.</p><p> </p>

DETROIT, MI - JUNE 08: Chicago Cubs second base Nico Hoerner (2) gets ejected from the game by umpire Greg Gibson (53) during a regular season Major League Baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and the Detroit Tigers on June 08, 2025 at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan.

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Cubs' Hoerner talks ejection: Told ump 'You're having a really bad day'

Boston Red Sox starter Walker Buehler didn't mince words after allowing seven runs in Friday nigh...

<p>Boston Red Sox starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> didn't mince words after allowing seven runs in Friday night's 9-6 loss to the New York Yankees. </p><p>"This organization put a lot of faith in me this offseason, and I've been f-----g embarrassing for us," he said after lasting just two innings, according to <a href="https://x.com/SmittyOnMLB/status/1931180758758039560">Christopher Smith of MassLive</a>.</p><p>Buehler hasn't yet lived up to the one-year contract worth a little more than $21 million the Red Sox gave him in the offseason. He owns a 5.18 ERA and 1.44 WHIP through his first 10 outings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The righty's struggles have intensified over his past two starts, during which he's allowed 17 hits, including four home runs. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13802" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13802">Anthony Volpe</a> took him deep Friday in the Yankees' five-run first inning.</p><p>"It’s tough,” Buehler <a href="https://x.com/SmittyOnMLB/status/1931195282361917822">said</a>. "It’s obviously a big game and a big rivalry that I was excited to be a part of. And for it to go the way that it did is super disappointing, especially after the past two, three weeks of kind of prep and throwing and all that kinda shit and how I’m feeling. Physically I feel great and for it to happen that way, it sucks."</p><p>Buehler came to Boston after seven years with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Injuries limited him to just 75 1/3 innings in 2024, but he shined in the playoffs for the eventual World Series champions. </p><p>The 30-year-old holds a career 3.39 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 06: Walker Buehler #0 of the Boston Red Sox reacts against the New York Yankees during the first inning at Yankee Stadium on June 06, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.