Sun, 09 Mar 2025 17:42:07 -0400WeeblySun, 09 Mar 2025 14:30:31 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/thomas-pannone-sidelined-with-torn-flexor-tendonMilwaukee Brewers left-hander Thomas Pannone suffered a torn flexor tendon during the Brewers’ Cactus League game against the Guardians last Sunday. According to MLB.com’s Adam McCalvy, Pannone will be sidelined for at least a month while recovering from the injury, although surgery is not currently being considered. This setback is a significant blow for Pannone, who was vying for a spot on the Brewers' Opening Day roster.
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Pannone's injury not only disrupts his plans for the season but also impacts the Brewers' pitching depth. With Pannone out of minor league options, his placement on the injured list allows him to remain within the organization without being exposed to the waiver wire. While this situation provides some security for Pannone, his health concerns make it unlikely that he would be claimed by another team. As the Brewers navigate this challenge, they will need to explore alternative options to strengthen their pitching staff during Pannone's recovery.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:23:57 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/mets-overpower-marlins-7-3-in-spring-training-victoryOn March 8, 2025, the New York Mets secured a convincing 7-3 win over the Miami Marlins in a spring training game at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Florida. The Mets’ offense came alive early and stayed consistent, pounding out 10 hits and drawing seven walks to fuel their scoring. Juan Soto led the charge, going 3-for-3 with an RBI double in the first inning that set the tone, raising his spring training average to .400. Joey Meneses added a solo home run, while Brett Baty delivered a two-run double, contributing to New York’s dominance as they built a 7-0 lead by the sixth inning.
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David Peterson earned the win for the Mets, pitching four scoreless innings, allowing just one hit, walking two, and striking out two in a 47-pitch outing that showcased his command. The Marlins struggled to respond, with their offense quiet until late, managing only three runs against New York’s pitching staff. Miami’s Max Meyer tossed three strong innings, but the damage was done early, and relievers like Donovan Walton couldn’t stem the tide. The Mets’ victory improved their spring record to 5-8-2, while the Marlins fell to 3-8, highlighting New York’s offensive depth and pitching resilience in this Grapefruit League matchup.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:22:31 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/astros-stun-yankees-with-5-2-walk-off-win-in-spring-trainingOn March 8, 2025, the Houston Astros pulled off a dramatic 5-2 victory over the New York Yankees in a spring training game at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches in Palm Beach, Florida. The game remained a tight pitchers’ duel until the ninth inning, when the Astros erupted for five runs to secure the win. César Salazar delivered the decisive blow, blasting a walk-off three-run homer to right field off Yankees reliever Edgar Barclay, who took the loss after surrendering the late rally. Misael Tamarez earned the win for Houston, closing out the game as the Astros improved their spring record.
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The Yankees held a 2-0 lead for much of the contest, thanks to solid pitching from Allan Winans and timely hitting. However, their bullpen faltered in the ninth, allowing Houston to capitalize. Until that point, New York’s pitching had been impressive, stifling the Astros’ offense through eight innings. For Houston, the late surge showcased their resilience, with Salazar’s homer capping a comeback that turned a quiet game into a thrilling finish. The loss dropped the Yankees to a 7-5 spring record, while the Astros celebrated a victory that highlighted their potential depth as they prepare for the regular season.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:20:45 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/athletics-secure-4-2-victory-over-diamondbacks-in-spring-training-openerOn March 8, 2025, the Oakland Athletics kicked off their Big League Weekend with a 4-2 win against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Las Vegas Ballpark in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Athletics’ offense was powered by a balanced attack, with key contributions coming from their young prospects. JP Sears earned the win, delivering a solid start by pitching 3.0 innings, allowing three hits and one earned run while striking out four and issuing two walks. The A’s capitalized on their opportunities, building a lead that held firm before a sellout crowd of 8,708 fans, marking a strong start to their final spring training campaign before relocating from Oakland.
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The Diamondbacks struggled to find their rhythm against Oakland’s pitching, managing just two runs despite a competitive effort. Arizona’s lone bright spots included a run scored off Sears and another later in the game, but their offense couldn’t overcome the Athletics’ steady performance. The A’s bullpen locked down the victory, with relievers stifling any chance of a Diamondbacks rally. This game, part of a two-game spring training series, showcased Oakland’s emerging talent and set the stage for their next matchup against Arizona on March 9, while the Diamondbacks look to rebound from the early setback.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:16:51 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/angels-power-past-brewers-6-2-in-spring-training-showdownOn March 8, 2025, the Los Angeles Angels defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 6-2 in a spring training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix in Phoenix, Arizona. The Angels’ offense came alive with three home runs, showcasing their power early in the exhibition season. Nolan Schanuel, J.D. Davis, and Jo Adell each went deep, with Schanuel and Adell continuing to build their cases for roster spots. Tyler Anderson earned the win, pitching 3.1 innings and allowing two runs on two hits—both solo homers—while striking out two and walking one, providing a steady presence on the mound.
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The Brewers countered with solo home runs from Christian Yelich and Rhys Hoskins, but their offense couldn’t keep pace with the Angels’ barrage. Elvin Rodriguez took the loss for Milwaukee, struggling to contain Los Angeles’ bats as the Angels built a lead that held firm. The Brewers’ pitching staff managed to keep the game competitive early, but the Angels’ power surge proved decisive. This victory improved the Angels’ spring training record, offering a positive note as they gear up for their next matchup against the Reds on March 9, while the Brewers look to rebound from the defeat.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:11:36 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/padres-cruise-to-7-2-victory-over-guardians-in-spring-training-clashOn March 8, 2025, the San Diego Padres delivered a convincing 7-2 win against the Cleveland Guardians in a spring training game at Peoria Stadium in Peoria, Arizona. The Padres’ offense broke out early, with designated hitter Gavin Sheets smashing his first home run of the spring in the first inning, a three-run blast off Single-A pitcher Alonzo Richardson that drove in three runs after starter Luis L. Ortiz labored through a 24-pitch frame. Luis Arraez added to the effort, going 2-for-3 with a double, while Xander Bogaerts chipped in with a 1-for-2 performance, including a two-run single in the first, helping San Diego build a commanding lead.
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Yu Darvish earned the win for the Padres, pitching 2.2 innings and allowing two runs on four hits, with three strikeouts, one walk, and a hit batsman, showcasing his veteran poise. The Padres’ bullpen took over seamlessly, with relievers Jason Adam, Robert Suarez, Adrián Morejón, Yuki Matsui, and Wandy Peralta each tossing scoreless innings, combining for a dominant effort that limited the Guardians’ comeback hopes. Cleveland’s Luis L. Ortiz took the loss, struggling through 2.2 innings with three hits and four earned runs. This victory snapped a Padres skid, improving their Cactus League record to 4-10-1, while offering a glimpse of their potential as they gear up for the regular season.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:37:56 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/athletics-crush-rockies-8-1-in-spring-training-routOn March 8, 2025, the Oakland Athletics delivered a dominant 8-1 victory over the Colorado Rockies in a spring training game at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Athletics’ offense exploded early, with Brent Rooker setting the tone by going 2-for-3, including a home run and two RBIs. Lawrence Butler also contributed significantly, finishing 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI, while Tyler Soderstrom added a 1-for-2 performance with a run scored. Oakland’s bats racked up eight runs, capitalizing on Rockies pitching miscues to build an insurmountable lead by the middle innings.
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The Athletics’ pitching staff was equally impressive, led by starter Joey Estes, who tossed three scoreless innings, allowing just one hit while striking out two to earn the win. The bullpen continued the dominance, with relievers like Kyle Muller and Hogan Harris stifling Colorado’s offense, limiting them to a lone run late in the game. The Rockies struggled to find any rhythm against Oakland’s arms, with their only run coming as a consolation in the later innings. This convincing performance boosted the Athletics’ spring morale, showcasing their potential as they prepare for their final season in Oakland before the planned relocation.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:36:32 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/white-sox-top-dodgers-5-2-in-spring-training-upsetOn March 8, 2025, the Chicago White Sox delivered a surprising 5-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in a spring training game at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona. The White Sox, coming off a historically dismal 2024 season, showcased an unexpected offensive spark against the reigning World Series champions. Miguel Vargas ignited the Chicago attack with a solo home run, setting the tone early, while the team capitalized on Dodgers pitching to build a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. This win marked a rare bright spot for a White Sox squad looking to rebound from a 121-loss campaign.
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The Dodgers, despite the loss, saw a strong outing from starter Tyler Glasnow, who struck out six over three innings but couldn’t prevent the White Sox from pulling ahead. Los Angeles managed only two runs, with their offense stifled by Chicago’s pitching staff after Glasnow’s exit. The White Sox bullpen held firm, shutting down any late Dodgers rally attempts. The game, attended by fans entertained by legendary White Sox organist Nancy Faust, highlighted Chicago’s potential to surprise this spring, while the Dodgers, still fine-tuning their roster, slipped to a 5-5 record in Cactus League play.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:35:13 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/rangers-outlast-royals-5-3-in-spring-training-victoryOn March 8, 2025, the Texas Rangers secured a 5-3 win over the Kansas City Royals in a spring training matchup at Surprise Stadium in Surprise, Arizona. The Rangers’ offense struck early and held firm, with Ezequiel Duran leading the charge by going 2-for-3, including a home run and two RBIs. Wyatt Langford also contributed significantly, finishing 2-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored, boosting his spring batting average to an impressive .421. Starter Cody Bradford earned the win, pitching three innings and allowing two runs on three hits while striking out two, setting the tone for Texas’ pitching effort.
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The Royals mounted some resistance, with Garrett Hampson going 2-for-3 and scoring a run, but their offense couldn’t overcome the Rangers’ lead. Kansas City’s pitching struggled to contain Texas’ bats, with reliever Matt Sauer taking the loss after a shaky outing. The Rangers’ bullpen, including Jose Urena and Grant Wolfram, tightened up late, with Wolfram striking out two in a scoreless inning to help seal the victory. This win showcased Texas’ blend of young talent and veteran presence, improving their spring record and providing a positive note as they prepare for the regular season.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:33:56 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/giants-dominate-royals-7-3-in-spring-training-showdownOn March 8, 2025, the San Francisco Giants showcased their offensive and pitching prowess in a 7-3 victory over the Kansas City Royals during a spring training game at Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Giants’ lineup erupted with power, led by Matt Chapman and Mike Yastrzemski, who both launched home runs off Royals starter Michael Wacha. Chapman and Yastrzemski combined for five RBIs, providing the bulk of the afternoon’s scoring. Keaton Winn earned the win, delivering a strong performance with two scoreless innings, allowing just one walk while striking out one, further solidifying his case for a role in the Giants’ plans.

The Royals struggled to keep pace, managing only three runs against a Giants pitching staff that kept them in check for most of the game. Michael Wacha took the loss after surrendering the early homers, while Kansas City’s offense couldn’t capitalize against San Francisco’s arms. The Giants’ bullpen, including standouts Ryan Walker and Erik Miller, maintained control, with only non-roster invitee Justin Garza faltering by allowing three runs in the ninth. This win improved the Giants’ spring record to 8-3, offering a promising sign of their potential as they gear up for the regular season.

]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:32:35 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/cubs-hold-off-mariners-for-9-8-spring-training-triumphOn March 8, 2025, the Chicago Cubs narrowly defeated the Seattle Mariners 9-8 in a thrilling spring training game at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona. The Cubs’ offense erupted early, driven by Pete Crow-Armstrong, who smashed two home runs—a solo shot and a grand slam—finishing the day 2-for-3 and boosting his spring profile significantly. Miguel Amaya also shone, going 2-for-3 with a home run, while Seiya Suzuki added a solo homer to the tally. The Cubs built a substantial lead, but the Mariners mounted a late comeback, making it a one-run game by the ninth inning.
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Chicago’s pitching was tested, with starter Justin Steele navigating early trouble before the bullpen took over. Cade Horton, a highly touted prospect, closed out the game, earning the save despite allowing a solo home run to Colt Emerson. Seattle’s Harry Ford also went deep, contributing to the Mariners’ effort to rally back from a 9-3 deficit. The Cubs’ seven hits and three homers proved just enough to hold off Seattle’s late surge, improving Chicago’s spring record to 6-5-1 and offering fans an exciting preview of the team’s offensive potential ahead of their upcoming Tokyo Series against the Dodgers.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:31:15 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/reds-edge-diamondbacks-9-8-in-spring-training-thrillerOn March 8, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds outlasted the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-8 in a high-scoring spring training battle at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Arizona. The Reds’ offense was firing on all cylinders, led by Christian Encarnacion-Strand, who went 2-for-3 with a home run—his third of the spring—and continued to make a strong case for a roster spot. Gavin Lux and Austin Hays also delivered multi-hit games, with Lux going 2-for-2 and Hays 2-for-3, bolstering Cincinnati’s attack. Elly De La Cruz added a 1-for-3 performance with a stolen base, showcasing his speed, while Tommy Friedl chipped in with a 1-for-3 day and a walk. The Reds’ seven hits and timely scoring helped them improve their spring record to 7-6-1.
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The Diamondbacks kept pace for much of the game, with Eugenio Suarez powering their effort by going 1-for-3 with a home run and four RBIs, and Jack Hurley impressing at 2-for-2 with two RBIs. Arizona’s pitching faltered late, however, as Sean Moll picked up the win for Cincinnati with a scoreless inning, while Justin Martinez took the loss for the Diamondbacks. Trevor Rogers also contributed for the Reds, tossing a scoreless inning with two strikeouts. Despite a late push that brought them within one run, Arizona couldn’t overcome Cincinnati’s offensive output, falling to a competitive but ultimately losing effort in this spring training clash.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:30:01 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/blue-jays-blank-tigers-5-0-in-spring-training-shutoutOn March 8, 2025, the Toronto Blue Jays delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over the Detroit Tigers in a spring training game at TD Ballpark in Dunedin, Florida. The Blue Jays’ offense ignited early, with George Springer reaching base on an error in the fifth inning, allowing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to score and push the lead to 4-0. Guerrero Jr., a cornerstone of Toronto’s lineup, continued to showcase his value as the team built momentum. The Jays’ bats stayed disciplined, capitalizing on Tigers’ miscues to secure a comfortable advantage by the game’s midpoint.

​The pitching staff, led by newcomer Max Scherzer—nicknamed "Mad Max"—dominated the Tigers’ lineup, tossing four scoreless innings with three strikeouts in his second spring start for Toronto. Scherzer’s veteran presence stifled Detroit’s offense, which managed little resistance throughout the game. The Blue Jays’ bullpen followed suit, preserving the shutout with crisp relief work. This win highlighted Toronto’s blend of offensive opportunism and pitching prowess, offering a promising glimpse into their 2025 preparations as they improved their spring record against a Tigers squad unable to find the scoreboard.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:28:20 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/braves-rally-past-pirates-for-6-5-spring-training-victoryOn March 8, 2025, the Atlanta Braves staged a dramatic 6-5 comeback win against the Pittsburgh Pirates in a spring training game at CoolToday Park in North Port, Florida. The Braves trailed for much of the contest but erupted for four runs in the ninth inning to secure the walk-off victory. Spencer Schwellenbach started for Atlanta, pitching three innings and allowing two runs on four singles in the third, while striking out four overall. The Braves’ offense struggled early but found life late, with Ozzie Albies and Marcell Ozuna contributing key hits in a first-inning rally that initially put Atlanta up 2-0.
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The Pirates responded with a steady offensive effort, taking a lead thanks to solid performances from Jared Triolo, Bryan Reynolds, and DJ Stewart, who all had strong days at the plate. Pittsburgh’s Mike Burrows delivered a decent outing, though not dominant, as the Pirates built a 5-2 advantage by the ninth. However, Atlanta’s late surge proved decisive, with a four-run outburst in the final frame—capped by a walk-off hit—dropping Pittsburgh to 9-6 in Grapefruit League play. The game was marred slightly for the Braves by an injury to outfielder Jurickson Profar, who left with a jammed left wrist, though the team’s resilience shone through in a thrilling finish.
]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:26:48 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/phillies-outlast-blue-jays-5-4-in-spring-training-nail-biterOn March 8, 2025, the Philadelphia Phillies edged out the Toronto Blue Jays 5-4 in a tightly contested spring training game at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Florida. The Phillies’ offense was paced by a balanced attack, with notable contributions from their lineup as they capitalized on key moments. Taijuan Walker started on the mound, delivering a solid outing with three innings pitched, allowing two runs on three hits while striking out two, setting the tone for Philadelphia’s pitching effort. The game remained close throughout, with the Phillies pulling ahead late to secure the victory and improve their spring record.
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The Blue Jays put up a strong fight, with their offense generating four runs, though specific standout performances were not detailed in available recaps. Toronto’s pitching struggled to contain Philadelphia’s bats, particularly in critical situations, as reliever Mason Fluharty earned the win for the Phillies with a scoreless inning. The Blue Jays’ bullpen couldn’t hold the line, and despite a competitive effort, they fell short, dropping their spring training record to 5-5. This matchup showcased both teams’ potential, with the Phillies’ resilience proving the difference in a game that featured multiple lead changes and plenty of early-season drama.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:25:21 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/twins-rally-to-edge-red-sox-9-8-in-spring-training-thrillerOn March 8, 2025, the Minnesota Twins pulled off an exhilarating 9-8 comeback victory against the Boston Red Sox in a spring training game at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Florida. The Twins’ offense was tested early but found its rhythm late, overcoming a furious Red Sox rally to secure the win. Aaron Sabato delivered the decisive blow with a walk-off RBI single in the ninth inning, capping a game that saw Minnesota improve their spring record to 6-5-3. The Twins’ resilience shone through as they navigated a high-scoring affair, with key contributions from multiple players keeping them in contention throughout.
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The Red Sox, who fell to 7-6-1 with the loss, mounted a significant challenge, highlighted by Trayce Thompson’s grand slam in the eighth inning—his fifth home run of the spring, leading all MLB players in the exhibition season. Boston’s starter Sean Newcomb set a strong tone with 2.2 scoreless innings, but their bullpen couldn’t hold off Minnesota’s late surge. The Twins’ defense also played a pivotal role, with standout plays helping to stem the Red Sox’s momentum. This back-and-forth battle showcased both teams’ depth and provided an entertaining glimpse of their potential as the regular season approaches.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:23:43 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/rays-top-orioles-6-3-in-spring-training-showdownOn March 8, 2025, the Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Baltimore Orioles 6-3 in a spring training game held in Sarasota, Florida. The Rays' offense came alive, powered by a decisive inning that propelled them to victory. Key contributors included players like Jose Siri and Yandy Diaz, who have been reliable bats in past matchups, though specific performances from this game highlighted a collective effort. Kevin Kelly earned the win in relief, showcasing Tampa Bay’s pitching depth, while the Rays capitalized on opportunities against a struggling Orioles bullpen, notably tagging Seranthony Domínguez with the loss.
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The Orioles, despite a competitive effort, couldn’t overcome Tampa Bay’s surge. Baltimore’s lineup managed three runs, with players like Cedric Mullins potentially contributing based on his spring form, but it wasn’t enough to match the Rays’ output. Seranthony Domínguez faltered on the mound, allowing the Rays to pull ahead in a critical stretch. This loss dropped the Orioles to a 5-6 record in spring training, while the Rays improved to an identical 5-6 mark, setting the stage for their next matchup against the Blue Jays as they continue to fine-tune their roster for the regular season.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:21:44 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/cardinals-edge-nationals-5-3-in-spring-training-clashOn March 8, 2025, the St. Louis Cardinals secured a 5-3 victory over the Washington Nationals in a spring training matchup at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. The Cardinals' offense was sparked by key contributions from Ryan Vilade and Michael Helman, who each drove in runs to help secure the win. Thomas Saggese also stood out, going 2-for-3 at the plate with two runs scored, boosting his spring batting average to an impressive .318. Starting pitcher Steven Matz delivered a solid performance, pitching four innings and allowing five hits and two earned runs while striking out three, showcasing his health and effectiveness early in the spring.
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The Cardinals' bullpen played a crucial role in preserving the lead, combining for five innings of work and surrendering just one unearned run while striking out four Nationals batters. Roddery Munoz continued to impress on the mound, adding to the growing intrigue around his potential role with the team. For the Nationals, the offense couldn’t capitalize enough against the Cardinals' pitching, managing only three runs despite a competitive effort. This win highlighted St. Louis’ depth and resilience, with both established players and prospects stepping up in a well-rounded team performance.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:16:24 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/tigers-prospect-jackson-jobe-showcases-confidence-in-spring-trainingDetroit Tigers' up-and-coming pitcher Jackson Jobe, one of MLB Pipeline's top pitching prospects, demonstrated his confidence and skill during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Despite the Tigers' 5-0 loss, Jobe threw 3 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing only one hit and striking out Toronto slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Jobe's performance highlighted his potential, and his post-game comments showcased his unwavering confidence. "I'm done with trying to dot a gnat's a--," Jobe said via Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press. "Just, here's my stuff. If you hit it, good. Odds are, probably not."
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Jobe's confidence is backed by his impressive track record. Last season, he was called up late to aid the Tigers' postseason run. In his two regular-season appearances from the bullpen, Jobe threw four innings, surrendering just one hit and no earned runs. He also made two postseason appearances, throwing 1 2/3 innings and giving up five hits and three earned runs. As Jobe prepares for his rookie season, he is expected to join the Tigers' starting rotation. His spring training performance and confident mindset suggest he is ready to make a significant impact on the team's success.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:13:08 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/christian-yelich-homers-for-the-first-time-since-back-surgery-each-day-has-felt-betterChristian Yelich’s first hit of Spring Training served as a promising sign that his surgically repaired back is holding up well. The Milwaukee Brewers star blasted a solo home run over the batter’s eye in center field during the first inning of Saturday's 6-2 loss to the Angels at American Family Fields of Phoenix. While the result was impressive, Yelich emphasized the importance of the process. “It’s always good to have positive steps, whether it’s a home run or not,” he said. “If it’s a good at-bat, or you feel like you’re putting good swings on balls, or being on time, that’s what you look for in Spring Training.”
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Yelich also reflected on the joy of hitting a home run after his back surgery. “Obviously, you’ll always take the home runs. It’s cool to prove to yourself that it’s still in there and stuff like that. But you’re just trying to build the timing back, the rhythm, just being comfortable being back in the box in a game environment. We’ve still got a ways to go this spring, but each day has felt better, which is nice.” Brewers manager Pat Murphy echoed Yelich's sentiments, stating, “It’s good to see balls and strikes. It’s good to know you still have your eye. And then you’ve got to hit some balls on the barrel. It’s good to have him do that today.” As Yelich continues his recovery, both he and the team remain optimistic about his progress and future performance.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:10:16 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/scherzer-dominates-in-2025-spring-trainingMax Scherzer, 40, delivered a vintage performance in just his third start of 2025 Spring Training. The right-hander struck out six different Tigers in 3 1/3 innings of one-hit scoreless pitching, leading the Blue Jays to a 5-0 victory at TD Ballpark. Scherzer's diverse arsenal of pitches—including two 94 mph four-seamers, two changeups, one slider, and one curve—kept the Tigers' hitters off balance. Toronto manager John Schneider removed Scherzer after 49 pitches (38 strikes), and All-Star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. applauded the veteran, who has an impressive pitching line of nine innings, 14 strikeouts, zero walks, three hits, and two earned runs in his new uniform.
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Coming off a challenging 2024 season with the Rangers, where injuries limited him to a 2-4 record and a 3.95 ERA in 43 1/3 innings, Scherzer appears to be in top form. After undergoing back surgery for a herniated disk and dealing with a shoulder flareup and hamstring injury, Scherzer is grateful to be healthy again. "I’ve got a few years of … I know what it’s like to be healthy. I was able to pitch with every pitch, working with [catcher Alejandro] Kirk to kind of get to the right lanes. I got in my work," Scherzer said with a smile. With this strong start, Scherzer is poised to make a significant impact for the Blue Jays in the upcoming season.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:07:09 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/erick-mejia-transitions-to-pitching-in-nationals-spring-campErick Mejia is embarking on a new chapter in his 13-year career by transitioning from an infielder to a pitcher in the Washington Nationals' spring camp. This significant career shift was highlighted during a recent 25-pitch live batting practice session against minor league hitters, where none of his pitches were put into play, showcasing his potential on the mound. Mejia's determination to reinvent himself as a pitcher reflects his dedication to the game and his willingness to adapt to new challenges.
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Mejia's MLB resume includes 17 games with the Kansas City Royals during the 2019-20 seasons. The majority of his career has been spent in the farm systems of the Mariners, Dodgers, Royals, and Nationals, where he has compiled a .264/.333/.387 batting line over 3998 career plate appearances in the minors. As he transitions to pitching, Mejia's extensive experience in professional baseball will undoubtedly aid him in his new role. The Nationals are optimistic about what Mejia can bring to the mound as he continues to develop his pitching skills.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:05:09 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/erasmo-ramirez-faces-extended-absence-due-to-shoulder-injuriesTwins right-hander Erasmo Ramirez is expected to miss significant time after being diagnosed with tears in his teres minor and lat muscles, as reported by team trainer Nick Paparesta. Ramirez will be re-evaluated in multiple weeks, but the veteran pitcher is likely facing a lengthy absence. This news is a setback for Ramirez, who signed a minor league contract with the Twins on February 15 and has only appeared in one Spring Training game so far.
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Ramirez's injury is a blow to the Twins, as they were hoping to benefit from his experience in what would be his 14th Major League season. Despite his brief tenure with the organization, Ramirez's potential contribution was anticipated to be significant. As he begins the recovery process, the Twins will need to explore alternative options to strengthen their pitching staff while Ramirez works towards a return to the mound.]]>Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:02:45 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/phillies-showed-interest-in-pete-alonso-during-offseasonBefore Pete Alonso re-signed with the New York Mets, the Philadelphia Phillies were among the teams that "checked in" on his free agent market, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Alonso ultimately chose to return to Queens on a two-year, $54 million deal with an opt-out clause after the 2025 season. This interest from the Phillies marks the first public indication of their pursuit of Alonso, revealing their willingness to make a significant move within the NL East.
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Bryce Harper hinted at the Phillies' interest earlier this week when discussing his potential return to right field. Harper mentioned that when Alonso was still available, he suggested to the team and his agent, Scott Boras, that he would be open to moving back to the outfield if it would benefit the team. "When Pete was on the block still, I kind of sat there and was like, 'Hey, why not?'" Harper said. "I love playing first base. It’s been great. But if it’s going to help us win, I’d go back out there [to the outfield]." This willingness to adapt highlights Harper's commitment to the team's success and the potential impact Alonso could have had on the Phillies' roster.]]>Sat, 08 Mar 2025 21:43:46 GMThttp://called3rdstrike.net/news/jacob-degrom-impresses-in-2025-spring-training-debutTwo-time Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom is back and ready to make a strong impact in 2025. In his spring training debut for the Texas Rangers, deGrom delivered a flawless performance in two innings against the Kansas City Royals. He struck out Bobby Witt Jr. and Kyle Isbel in the first inning and added another strikeout against Tyler Gentry in the second inning. In total, deGrom threw 31 pitches, 21 of which were strikes, and averaged 97 mph on his four-seam fastball. Since signing a five-year, $185 million deal with the Rangers in December 2022, deGrom has logged just nine starts due to Tommy John surgery in June 2023, making his recent outing all the more impressive.
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DeGrom's successful return to the mound signals a promising season ahead for the Rangers ace. After recovering from surgery and making his comeback in September, deGrom looks poised to reclaim his dominant form. His performance in the exhibition game showcased his enduring talent and determination, providing a glimpse of what fans can expect in the upcoming season. With deGrom leading the charge, the Rangers have high hopes for a competitive 2025 campaign, and his presence on the mound will undoubtedly be a key factor in their success.]]>