Dodgers Pitcher Brusdar Graterol Undergoes Shoulder Surgery, Out Until Second Half of 202511/15/2024  Dodgers right-hander Brusdar Graterol announced on his Spanish-language X post that he underwent shoulder surgery yesterday. The team later confirmed that Graterol had surgery to repair his right shoulder labrum and is not expected to return until the second half of the 2025 season.
The news is not entirely surprising given Graterol's injury-plagued 2024 season, primarily due to persistent shoulder issues. He started the season on the injured list with hip tightness and right shoulder inflammation, which sidelined him until August. In his first game back, Graterol suffered a right hamstring strain, forcing another stint on the IL. Though he was briefly reactivated in September, he returned to the IL due to renewed shoulder inflammation. He missed most of the postseason but managed to return for the World Series. Graterol's 2024 season was limited to just 7 1/3 innings in the regular season and 2 1/3 innings in the World Series. Despite his efforts to contribute, his persistent shoulder issues ultimately necessitated surgical intervention. Prior to 2024, Graterol was a key component of the Dodgers' bullpen, posting a 2.69 ERA over 171 appearances from 2020 to 2023. Though his strikeout rate of 18.9% was below average, his impressive 5.5% walk rate and elite 62.5% ground ball rate made him an effective reliever. Among pitchers with at least 170 innings pitched during that period, only Clay Holmes, Andre Pallante, and Framber Valdez had better ground ball rates. Although Graterol played a role in the Dodgers' World Series victory, 2024 was largely a lost season for him. With at least half of 2025 projected to be missed, his path to arbitration will be affected. He earned $2.7 million this year, and MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz projects a similar figure for 2025. Graterol's potential salary increase in 2026 will depend on his recovery timeline and performance once he returns to the mound. The Dodgers and their fans will be hoping for a full recovery for Graterol as they navigate the challenges ahead.
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 MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi reports that Milwaukee Brewers’ shortstop Willy Adames is drawing extensive interest from multiple teams across the majors.
Adames' market includes teams with a need at shortstop, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, San Francisco Giants, and Boston Red Sox. However, several other clubs are also eyeing Adames as a potential third baseman. According to Morosi, teams like the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros are among those considering Adames for a position at third base. The Astros, in particular, have a vacancy at third base after Alex Bregman entered free agency. While Houston is keen to re-sign Bregman, Morosi suggests that Adames could be their choice if they fail to retain him. Although Adames is a natural shortstop, he is reportedly open to moving to another position for the right team and contract, as mentioned by The Athletic (subscription required). The versatile infielder's flexibility and high demand demonstrate his significant value as teams strategize their rosters for the upcoming seasons.  The Hudson Valley Renegades, in a bid to celebrate the core aspects of their home state, have introduced a new alternate identity called the "Big Apples." This exciting unveiling took place at a gala event on Friday morning and marks a significant nod to both the region's rich apple heritage and the iconic Big Apple, New York City.
The Significance of Big Apples New York state ranks as the second-largest producer of apples in the United States, with the Hudson Valley region being a hub of apple orchards. This new identity, therefore, complements the Renegades' previous local food-themed identity, the Cider Donuts. Additionally, the Big Apples name pays homage to New York City, approximately 100 miles south of the Hudson Valley. The Renegades' affiliation with the Yankees since 2021 further solidifies this connection. Design and Inspiration The Renegades will debut their Big Apples uniforms on three occasions in 2025: July 26, August 15, and September 4. These logos and uniforms, designed by San Diego-based Brandiose, feature the primary logo character named Empire. Empire references both New York's nickname and a variety of apples first cultivated in the state. Empire is depicted holding the Statue of Liberty's torch in his left hand and wearing a giant foam finger on his right. The design incorporates a blue and gold color scheme inspired by the New York state flag. Historical Tie-Ins and Celebration "We were really intentional about when we wanted the first [Big Apples] game to be," said Vasile. "July 26 coincides with the date in 1788 when New York signed the Constitution and officially became a state. The New York ratifying convention took place in Poughkeepsie at the Dutchess County courthouse, just 25 miles north of the ballpark." The unveiling event at Heritage Financial Park featured representatives from apple orchards throughout the region. The Renegades also announced the continuation of their partnership with Hudson North Cider, which had previously collaborated with the team on a Cider Donuts-inspired beverage. This partnership will now extend to a special Big Apple cider using apples from New Paltz, a nearby town. Merchandise and Fan Engagement Big Apples merchandise is now available both at the ballpark and online. While the Renegades gained notoriety for their scented Cider Donuts merchandise, the Big Apples offerings are currently aroma-free. "We talked about it, but couldn't figure out what we wanted the smell to be," said Vasile. "Apple-scented would probably be too close to what we had with Cider Donuts, and then it's, well, what kind of smell would make it smell like New York?" The introduction of the Big Apples identity is a celebration of the Hudson Valley Renegades' local roots and their connection to New York's rich cultural and agricultural heritage. Fans can look forward to seeing the team don their new uniforms in 2025, bringing a fresh and exciting element to the game.  The Cleveland Guardians have announced exciting updates to their jersey set for the 2025 season. These refinements aim to inject new energy into the team's uniforms while honoring the club’s rich 124-year history. The updated jerseys will complement Cleveland’s City Connect uniforms, completing the 2025 on-field look.
Blue Alternative Road Uniform The most significant change for the 2025 season is the redesigned blue alternative uniform. While retaining its navy base, the jersey will now feature the Guardians' 'Diamond C' logo instead of 'Cleveland' across the chest. This new design pays homage to the franchise's historical jerseys from 1901-1945, including the 1920 World Series team, which also sported a 'C' on the chest. The updated jersey will also include distinctive red-white-red piping to complement the navy base. Red Alternative Home Uniform The red home alternative uniform will also see a fresh look for 2025. The script 'Guardians' from the 2024 jerseys will be replaced with the club’s Bridge Print font, with 'Guardians' displayed prominently across the chest. The piping on this jersey will feature a blue-white-blue pattern, further integrating the Guardians brand with a consistent font seen on the back numbers of all Cleveland jerseys. White Home Uniform Cleveland’s white home uniform will maintain its classic appearance with script 'Guardians' across the chest. The logo will now be positioned horizontally rather than on a slant. Additionally, new piping will be introduced with a red-blue-red design around the neckline and arms. A new home hat will debut in 2025, exclusively for this uniform set, featuring a red main color with a blue bill. The 'Diamond C' will remain a staple on all hats, with the blue cap and red bill being worn with other jerseys (home red, road blue, road gray). Gray Road Uniform The gray road jersey will remain unchanged, continuing to feature 'Cleveland' across the chest in Bridge Print font. The piping on this jersey will match the red-blue-red color scheme seen on the white home uniform. These thoughtful updates ensure that the Cleveland Guardians' jerseys honor the team's legacy while introducing a refreshed and energized look for the 2025 season. Fans can look forward to seeing their team take the field in these new designs, which balance tradition with modern style.  The Pittsburgh Pirates made an exciting announcement on Friday, revealing a unique and enticing offer for fans and collectors alike. The team is offering a remarkable package of perks, including 30 years' worth of season tickets at PNC Park, in exchange for a rare and highly coveted 1-of-1 Paul Skenes rookie card.
The Coveted Rookie Card The card in question is part of the recently released 2024 Topps Chrome Update set. What makes this card truly special is that it is a one-of-a-kind (1-of-1) collectible, featuring not only Paul Skenes' autograph but also the MLB debut patch he wore during his first regular-season game. Such exclusivity and personal touch make this card a highly sought-after item among collectors. The Pirates' Generous Offer The Pirates are going all out to secure this unique piece of memorabilia. They have outlined an impressive package of perks for the individual who pulls the card and is willing to part with it in favor of the organization. The package includes:
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity This offer underscores the Pirates' commitment to their fans and the value they place on unique collectibles. For the lucky individual who finds this 1-of-1 Paul Skenes rookie card, the decision to exchange it for such an extraordinary package of experiences and access to Pirates baseball could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Pirates' announcement has generated buzz among collectors and baseball fans, adding an extra layer of excitement to the hobby. It will be interesting to see who ends up pulling the card and whether they decide to take the Pirates up on their generous offer.  The Major League Baseball Players Union has settled a significant lawsuit against sports betting giant FanDuel. The lawsuit accused FanDuel of using the names and likenesses of hundreds of MLB players on its betting platform without proper authorization.
Settlement Details On Friday, a FanDuel spokesperson announced that the company and the union had reached a confidential licensing agreement. As part of this settlement, the players agreed to dismiss their claims with prejudice in a New York federal court filing, which means these claims cannot be refiled in the future. Attempts to obtain additional comments or details from union spokespeople and attorneys have so far been unsuccessful. Ongoing Legal Battles The MLB Players Union has also filed similar complaints against other major sports betting companies, including FanDuel's competitor DraftKings. These cases are still active and ongoing. The lawsuits, which were initiated in September, argued that these companies "flagrantly" violated the rights of nearly every active MLB player by using their names, images, and likenesses without obtaining the necessary licenses. "For professional athletes, the ability to control the commercial use of their names, images, and likenesses is a crucial return on their substantial career investment," the players asserted. FanDuel had not formally responded to the allegations in court at the time of the settlement. NFL Players Union Involvement In a related matter, the National Football League's Players Union has filed its own lawsuit against DraftKings. This lawsuit, which remains ongoing, alleges that DraftKings misused NFL player likenesses on non-fungible tokens (NFTs) without proper authorization. The resolution of the MLB Players Union's lawsuit against FanDuel marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussions about the commercial rights of professional athletes. As the legal battles continue, the outcome of these cases will likely have broad implications for the sports betting industry and the protection of athlete likenesses. The Doosan Bears of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) have announced the signing of left-handed pitcher Cole Irvin to a one-year contract. This deal guarantees Irvin $1 million, which includes an $800,000 salary and a $200,000 signing bonus. This move, reported by Jee-ho Yoo of Yonhap News Agency, marks Irvin's first stint overseas after spending six seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Irvin's MLB Journey Cole Irvin, now 30 years old and turning 31 in January, has had a notable MLB career, having pitched for the Philadelphia Phillies, Oakland Athletics, Baltimore Orioles, and Minnesota Twins. He was a reliable innings eater for the Athletics during the 2021-22 seasons, starting 62 games and posting a respectable 4.11 ERA. Known for his control, Irvin's fastball averaged 90.7 mph, and he maintained a strikeout rate of 16.8% while limiting opponents to a walk rate of just 5.2%. However, Irvin's journey in the MLB has not been without its challenges. Acquired by the Orioles in exchange for Darell Hernaiz before the 2023 season, Irvin struggled early on and was optioned to Triple-A. He eventually returned to the majors, ending the season with a 4.42 ERA in 77 1/3 innings, often pitching out of the bullpen. His 2024 season also proved difficult, as he recorded a 4.86 ERA in 16 starts and nine relief appearances before being designated for assignment and claimed by the Twins. Irvin's final MLB season saw him post a 5.11 ERA in 3 2/3 innings with Minnesota before electing free agency in October. A New Opportunity with Doosan Bears Irvin joins the Doosan Bears with a career 4.54 ERA, a 17.1% strikeout rate, and a 5.6% walk rate over 593 innings in the big leagues. The Bears highlighted Irvin's "great control" in their announcement, a trait that has been his hallmark throughout his career. Heading overseas presents a unique opportunity for Irvin. Many pitchers have used their time in leagues like the KBO to refine their skills, develop new pitches, or adjust their mechanics, often returning to the MLB with improved performance. For Irvin, this could be a chance to reignite his career and possibly attract interest from MLB teams or secure a more lucrative contract within Asia, particularly in Japan, where players typically command higher salaries than in Korea. Looking Forward The $1 million salary Irvin receives is the maximum for first-year foreign signees in the KBO, underscoring the Bears' belief in his potential impact. Whether Irvin uses this experience to make adjustments that catch the eye of MLB scouts or to secure a more prominent role in Asian baseball, his journey will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. As Irvin embarks on this new chapter with the Doosan Bears, the baseball community will be eager to see how he adapts and performs in the KBO. This move represents both a fresh start for Irvin and an exciting development for the Bears as they add a seasoned pitcher with a proven track record of control and resilience.  The Washington Nationals are gearing up for an exciting offseason as they look to strengthen their roster with potential signings of veteran pitcher Frankie Montas and slugging first baseman Pete Alonso. These moves could signal significant step forward for the Nationals as they aim to return to competitive baseball.
Frankie Montas: A Bargain Free-Agent Deal The Nationals are considering signing veteran right-hander Frankie Montas to a bargain free-agent deal. Montas had a challenging time with the New York Yankees but showed improvement after joining the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite a rough 2023 season marred by shoulder surgery, Montas managed to fan 29% of the batters he faced after moving to Milwaukee. His fastball gained velocity, and he featured his sinker and cutter more effectively. Montas' potential signing is seen as a strategic move to bolster the Nationals' rotation. While his 2024 stats (7-11 record, 4.84 ERA) aren't eye-popping, his improvements and veteran experience make him a valuable addition. The Nationals are in a prime position to spend, with Patrick Corbin's contract coming off the books and a deep farm system. Pete Alonso: Power Boost at First Base The Nationals are also listed among the top fits for slugging first baseman Pete Alonso. Alonso, who hit 46 home runs in 2024, could provide a much-needed power boost to the Nationals' lineup. His consistent ability to hit 40 or more home runs in a season would fill a glaring need for Washington, who ranked near the bottom of the league in overall power production last season. Alonso's presence at first base would anchor the heart of the Nationals' lineup, giving young players like CJ Abrams and Dylan Crews additional protection. His power from the right side would complement the Nationals' left-handed hitters, creating a more balanced lineup that could better compete against National League pitching2. Impact on the Nationals' Rebuild Signing both Montas and Alonso would mark a significant step forward for the Nationals as they look to move out of their multi-year rebuild. Montas' experience and Alonso's power potential could elevate the team's offensive profile and provide the consistency needed to compete in the National League East. Additionally, Alonso's star power and reliability could energize a fanbase eager to see a return to competitive baseball. The Nationals' interest in these players shows their commitment to building a competitive team around their young core. With the potential signings of Montas and Alonso, the Nationals could position themselves as a future force in the division. Conclusion The Washington Nationals' offseason moves are generating excitement as they look to bolster their roster with Frankie Montas and Pete Alonso. These signings could provide the team with the pitching stability and power hitting needed to compete in the National League East. As the Nationals continue to build for the future, fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead.  A New Opportunity
Former Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Jack O'Loughlin is embarking on a new journey after signing a minor league deal with the Colorado Rockies. This move marks a significant step in O'Loughlin's career, as he aims to make a strong impression at the Rockies' Spring Training camp. O'Loughlin's Journey Jack O'Loughlin, a promising left-handed pitcher from Adelaide, Australia, made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the Athletics in 2024. Despite a challenging rookie season, where he struggled to find consistency, O'Loughlin showcased glimpses of his potential, leaving a lasting impression on those who saw him pitch. During the 2024 season, O'Loughlin appeared in 22 games for the Athletics, posting a 5.02 ERA with 34 strikeouts over 28.2 innings. While these numbers may not jump off the page, his powerful fastball and sharp breaking ball have made him a player to watch. Scouts have noted his impressive velocity and movement, suggesting that with some refinement, he could become a reliable option out of the bullpen. The Rockies' Perspective For the Rockies, signing O'Loughlin is a low-risk, high-reward move. The team is looking to bolster its pitching depth, and O'Loughlin's potential makes him an intriguing addition. Rockies' General Manager expressed optimism about the signing, highlighting O'Loughlin's raw talent and the opportunity for him to develop further within their organization. "Jack has shown that he has the tools to be successful at this level," the GM said. "We believe that with the right coaching and support, he can take the next step in his career and become a valuable contributor to our team." Preparing for Spring Training As O'Loughlin heads into Spring Training with the Rockies, he will be focused on refining his mechanics and improving his consistency. The coaching staff will work closely with him to harness his strengths and address any weaknesses. This period will be crucial for O'Loughlin as he aims to secure a spot on the Rockies' roster for the 2025 season. Looking Ahead Jack O'Loughlin's journey is a testament to the resilience and determination required to succeed in professional sports. His move to the Colorado Rockies represents a fresh start and a chance to prove himself at the highest level. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see how he performs in the upcoming season. With his talent and the support of the Rockies' organization, O'Loughlin has the opportunity to carve out a successful career in the MLB. As he takes this next step, there's a sense of excitement and anticipation about what the future holds for the young left-hander.  The Seattle Mariners have officially declined their $12 million option on veteran Jorge Polanco, making him a free agent. This decision comes after a disappointing 2024 season for Polanco, who struggled with injuries and posted career lows in batting average and on-base percentage. With Polanco's departure, the Mariners are now on the hunt for a new second baseman this offseason.
Polanco's 2024 Season: A Statistical Overview Polanco's 2024 season was marred by injuries and underperformance. In 118 games, he managed a batting average of just .213, with 15 home runs, 45 RBIs, and a career-worst 29.2% strikeout rate. His on-base percentage was .296, and he produced a mere 0.3 WAR, the lowest in his career since 2015. Polanco also played through a knee injury, which required surgery in early October. Mariners' Options for Second Base With Polanco out of the picture, the Mariners have several options to consider for the second base position. Here are a few potential candidates:
The Mariners' Offensive Struggles The Mariners' offensive struggles in 2024 were a significant factor in their decision to move on from Polanco. The team ranked in the bottom ten in RBIs, bottom five in total bases, and had the second-worst team batting average in the league2. Addressing these issues will be a top priority for the Mariners this offseason. Looking Ahead The Mariners' front office is determined to upgrade their batting order and find a reliable second baseman. Whether they opt for a high-profile free agent like Torres or Kim, or turn to their internal options, the goal is clear: improve the team's offensive production and make a strong push for the playoffs in 2025. The Mariners' offseason moves will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. With the right additions, Seattle could be a formidable contender in the American League West next season.  As awards season heats up, it's important to highlight the All-MLB Team presented by MGM Rewards, which uniquely honors the best players across Major League Baseball, considering the entirety of the season. This prestigious accolade stands apart from others by acknowledging the comprehensive performance of players throughout the year.
Sixth Annual All-MLB Team Announcement The sixth annual All-MLB Team was announced on Thursday night, celebrating the standout performers of the 2024 season. Like in previous years, the selection process was split evenly between fan votes (50%) and a panel of experts (50%). This ensures a balanced perspective, combining popular opinion with professional insight. The All-MLB Team is divided into First and Second Teams, each featuring one selection per position: catcher, first base, second base, shortstop, third base, designated hitter (DH), three outfielders (regardless of specific outfield position), five starting pitchers, and two relievers. Voters were instructed to consider only regular-season performance when casting their ballots. Team Highlights The San Diego Padres led the 2024 selections with four players on the All-MLB teams. The Kansas City Royals, Houston Astros, and Los Angeles Dodgers followed closely, each with three players selected. Notably, the Dodgers, Yankees, and Guardians were the only teams with multiple First Team honorees, showcasing their top-tier talent. 2024 All-MLB Teams First Team
Second Team
Conclusion The All-MLB Team continues to be a significant accolade, recognizing the top performers across Major League Baseball. By considering the entirety of the season and combining fan input with expert analysis, the All-MLB Team provides a comprehensive snapshot of the best players in the game. Fans and players alike eagerly anticipate this annual announcement, celebrating the achievements of the sport's elite. Congratulations to all the 2024 All-MLB Team honorees! The Boston Red Sox took a significant step in their pursuit of star outfielder Juan Soto by meeting with him and his representatives, including renowned agent Scott Boras, in Southern California on Thursday night. The three-hour meeting, reported by Sean McAdam of MassLive, was characterized as "productive" and served as an introductory and informative session. Importantly, discussions did not venture into specific financial terms or contract details.
A Historic Presentation Soto, one of the most sought-after talents in baseball, was reportedly "impressed" by Boston's presentation. The Red Sox showcased a video highlighting their storied history of star players from the Dominican Republic, Soto’s home country. This nod to their rich heritage was a strategic move, aimed at resonating with Soto on a personal level. Vision for the Future In addition to honoring their past, the Red Sox laid out an ambitious vision for the future. They detailed a promising pipeline of prospects who could potentially join forces with Soto to drive the team’s success in the coming years. This forward-looking approach is a critical aspect of Boston’s pitch, as they aim to build a competitive roster around the young phenom. Next Steps While this initial meeting set a positive tone, it is just the beginning of a series of discussions Soto is expected to have with multiple teams in Southern California over the next few days. The Red Sox will hope that their blend of historical reverence and future promise will set them apart in the competitive pursuit of Soto's signature. By fostering a connection with Soto and presenting a comprehensive plan for the future, the Red Sox have positioned themselves as serious contenders in the race to secure one of baseball’s brightest stars. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching as these negotiations unfold. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and Soto continues his meetings with potential suitors. The Boston Red Sox have bolstered their bullpen by signing veteran left-handed reliever Justin Wilson to a one-year contract. With this addition, Boston's 40-man roster is now at full capacity. Wilson, represented by ACES, is guaranteed $2.25 million under the new deal, with potential incentives totaling an additional $750,000. He can earn $150,000 for reaching each of 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60 appearances.
Career and Recent Performance Justin Wilson, 37, has an extensive track record in the majors, although recent years have seen him struggle with injuries. After returning from Tommy John surgery, Wilson pitched 46 2/3 innings for the Cincinnati Reds last year, ending the season with a 5.59 earned run average (ERA). Several factors contributed to these struggles, including an elevated average on balls in play and a high home run rate. The latter was significantly influenced by pitching in Cincinnati's Great American Ball Park, known for being exceptionally hitter-friendly. Seven out of the ten home runs Wilson allowed were at home, a testament to the park's impact on his stats. Encouraging Metrics Despite the disappointing ERA, Wilson's underlying metrics paint a more optimistic picture. He posted a 24.4% strikeout rate and a 6.2% walk rate, both better than the league average. His fastball velocity was impressive, averaging 95.5 mph—the second-highest mark of his career. His cutter also reached a career-high average velocity of 92.3 mph. Advanced metrics like xFIP (3.99) and SIERA (3.41), which account for normalized homer-to-flyball rates, suggest that Wilson could bounce back if he maintains his 2024 performance levels. Historical Success From 2015 to 2020, Wilson was one of the most reliable left-handed relievers in baseball. During that period, he played for the Yankees, Tigers, Cubs, and Mets, accumulating a 3.41 ERA over 291 innings in 344 games. He maintained a 28.2% strikeout rate and a 10.8% walk rate. His command in 2024 showed significant improvement compared to previous seasons, and his ability to generate strikeouts remained intact. Known for his late-inning prowess, Wilson has amassed 142 holds and 20 saves over his 12-year major league career. Looking Ahead The Red Sox are hopeful that Wilson can rebound and provide a reliable left-handed option out of the bullpen. If he can continue to pitch at the level suggested by his underlying metrics, Wilson could be a valuable asset for Boston in their quest for postseason success in 2025. The Tampa Bay Rays have secured a temporary home for the 2025 regular season: George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. This decision comes in the wake of significant damage to Tropicana Field caused by Hurricane Milton last month, with repairs not expected to be completed until 2026.
A New Home for the 2025 SeasonI n light of the extensive damage, the Rays had to find an interim venue for their home games. After considering various options, the team decided on Steinbrenner Field, which serves as the spring training home for the New York Yankees and the Single-A Tampa Tarpons in the Florida State League. “We deeply appreciate that the Yankees have graciously allowed us to play at Steinbrenner Field for the 2025 season,” said Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg. “The hurricane damage to Tropicana Field has forced us to take some extraordinary steps, just as Hurricanes Helene and Milton have forced thousands of families and businesses in our community to adapt to new circumstances as we all recover and rebuild.” Spring Training Arrangements The Rays will continue to use their Charlotte Sports Park facility in Port Charlotte, Fla., for their spring training workouts and home games. The Yankees will hold their spring training games at Steinbrenner Field before the Rays take over for the regular season. “We are happy to extend our hand to the Rays and their fans by providing a Major League-quality facility for them to utilize this season,” said Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner. “Both the Yankees organization and my family have deep roots in the Tampa Bay region, and we understand how meaningful it is for Rays players, employees, and fans to have their 2025 home games take place within 30 minutes of Tropicana Field. In times like these, rivalry and competition take a back seat to doing what’s right for our community — which is continuing to help families and businesses rebound from the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.” MLB's Commitment to the Community Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized MLB’s goal of keeping the Rays close to their fans in the Tampa Bay area. The selection of Steinbrenner Field meets this objective, ensuring that Rays fans can still enjoy home games within their local market. “Given the significant challenges caused by Hurricane Milton, I appreciate the hard work and collaboration between the two teams that allowed the Rays to make the best decision for next season," Manfred said. "This outcome meets Major League Baseball’s goals that Rays’ fans will see their team play next season in their home market and that their players can remain home without disruption to their families.” Conclusion The decision to play the 2025 season at George M. Steinbrenner Field reflects the resilience and adaptability of the Rays organization. With the support of the Yankees and the MLB community, the Rays and their fans can look forward to a season of competitive baseball, even in the face of adversity. In an effort to bolster their roster, the Atlanta Braves have made several key signings to their minor league system. According to their transaction logs on MLB.com, the Braves have signed infielder Charles Leblanc and catcher Yohel Pozo to minor league contracts. Both players had opted for free agency earlier this offseason. Additionally, MLB Trade Rumors has reported that the Braves have also brought on infielder Kobe Kato on a minor league deal. Charles Leblanc: A Versatile InfielderCharles Leblanc, who spent his age-28 season with the Los Angeles Angels organization, brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the Braves. In 98 Triple-A games, Leblanc hit .254/.379/.437, with 12 home runs and an impressive 16.4% walk rate. He also made a brief appearance in the big leagues, hitting two home runs in 28 plate appearances. Leblanc was originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in the fourth round of the 2016 MLB Draft. He has a career batting line of .259/.364/.454 across four Triple-A seasons and has played 197 games in the majors with a .254/.330/.412 line. Primarily a third baseman, Leblanc has also logged over 1,000 innings at both second and first base, 473 innings at shortstop, and 376 innings in left field. Yohel Pozo: Adding Depth Behind the PlateCatcher Yohel Pozo, who signed with the Rangers as an international free agent in 2013, brings additional depth to the Braves' catching corps. Pozo made his MLB debut with the Rangers in 2021, appearing in 21 games, mostly as a designated hitter. During his stint with Texas, he slashed .284/.312/.378 with one home run and nine RBIs. Although Pozo has not appeared in the majors since 2021, he has performed well in Triple-A over the past three seasons with the Rangers and Athletics organizations. Pozo's signing comes as the Braves look to strengthen their catching options following the departure of Travis d'Arnaud this offseason. Kobe Kato: A Rising InfielderThe Braves have also added infielder Kobe Kato, a 25-year-old who was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 13th round of the 2021 MLB Draft. After being released by the Astros early in 2024, Kato found success with the independent York Revolution and earned a new opportunity with the Seattle Mariners. He climbed three minor league levels, reaching Triple-A, and hit .283/.393/.389 with one home run and eight steals in 135 plate appearances. Primarily a second baseman, Kato has also gained experience at shortstop, third base, and all three outfield positions, making him a valuable asset for the Braves' minor league system. Conclusion These signings reflect the Braves' commitment to building a strong and versatile roster. By adding players like Charles Leblanc, Yohel Pozo, and Kobe Kato, the Braves are ensuring they have the depth and talent needed to compete at the highest level. As the 2024 season approaches, these new additions will be closely watched to see how they contribute to the team's success. In a groundbreaking announcement today, Major League Baseball (MLB) revealed its plans to take over the distribution of local broadcasts for the Cincinnati Reds starting in the 2025 season. This significant move promises to enhance how Reds fans experience the games, both on television and through new streaming options.
A Seamless Transition MLB's decision to handle the distribution means that fans can continue enjoying their beloved Reds games on television as they always have. The familiar voices of the broadcasters, the excitement of live action, and the comfort of watching the game from home remain unchanged. The New Streaming Era What sets this announcement apart is the introduction of a direct-to-consumer streaming option. For the first time, Reds fans will have the flexibility to stream games directly to their devices without the worry of blackout restrictions. This streaming service aims to provide a more accessible and convenient way for fans to stay connected with their team, no matter where they are. Benefits for Fans The new streaming option will offer several advantages:
Looking Ahead With MLB taking charge of local broadcasts, the future of Reds games looks bright and inclusive. This move aligns with the league's commitment to embracing modern technology and catering to the evolving preferences of baseball fans. As we await the 2025 season, Reds fans can look forward to a new era of accessibility and convenience. The combination of traditional television broadcasts and innovative streaming options ensures that the excitement of Reds baseball remains within reach for everyone. The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres kicked off the 2024 MLB season with an exciting game on March 20, 2024, at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea. The Dodgers emerged victorious with a 5-2 win over the Padres in the season opener.
Game Summary The Padres took an early lead, scoring two runs in the fourth inning. However, the Dodgers staged a remarkable comeback in the eighth inning, scoring four runs to take the lead. Shohei Ohtani played a crucial role in the rally, driving in a run with a single. The Padres' first baseman, Jake Cronenworth, committed a costly error that allowed the Dodgers to capitalize and secure the win. Key Performances
Betting Odds The Dodgers were favored to win with odds of -200, while the Padres were underdogs at +166. The over/under for total runs scored was set at 8.52. Box Score Highlights
Conclusion The Dodgers' comeback victory in the season opener sets an exciting tone for the rest of the season. With key performances from new additions like Ohtani and Hernández, the Dodgers look poised for a strong season ahead. The Padres, despite the loss, showed resilience and will be looking to bounce back in the next game. It has been rumored for quite a while, but now it is official - Cody Bellinger is returning to the Cubs on a 3 year, $80 Million deal.
Bellinger, aged 28, reportedly has the option to opt out after either the first or second years of the contract. Sources indicate he's slated to earn $30 million for the upcoming season, another $30 million in 2025 (conditional on not opting out after the first year), and $20 million in 2026 (provided he doesn't opt out after the second year). In 2023, Bellinger's improved health propelled him to a standout season, earning him recognition as the National League Comeback Player of the Year. Despite finishing 10th in NL MVP voting, he significantly reduced his strikeout rate compared to previous seasons and demonstrated prowess against left-handed pitchers, boasting a .337 batting average with a .984 OPS against them. Prior to joining the Cubs, Bellinger had endured two challenging seasons due to a lingering shoulder injury sustained during the 2020 playoffs. Despite registering his lowest average exit velocity of his career in 2023 at just 87.9 mph, he adjusted his approach by shortening his swing with two strikes, resulting in softer contact but fewer strikeouts. Remarkably, his whiff rate dropped to a career-low of 15.6%, and he batted .279 with two strikes, ranking second in all of baseball behind Luis Arraez. After securing a deal worth $17.5 million with Chicago, Bellinger earned a Silver Slugger award. He then chose to decline a $25 million option for the current season, entering a market rife with potential for top-tier hitters. However, initial assessments by general managers deemed his asking price excessive. As Bellinger lingered on the market, the pool of teams willing to make significant financial commitments dwindled. Via Mark Sheldon on Twitter, the Reds added Veteran Tony Kemp to the Minor League Roster.
Kemp is in his 9th MLB Season and has previously been with the Astros, Blue Jays, Cubs and Athletics. If he makes the squad, he will get a $1.75 Million contract with $750K in incentives. The Diamondbacks announced the signing of 2 veteran outfielders - Albert Almora Jr and Kyle Garlick - to Minor League Contracts with an invite to Spring Training Camp.
Apart from Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Randal Grichuk, the D-backs roster boasts several left-handed hitting outfielders. Both players being discussed are right-handed hitters. Via Jon Heyman, the Mariners are signing Brian Anderson to a Minor League deal, with a $2 Million guarantee if he makes the roster.
Anderson has been with the Marlins and Brewers during his 7 year MLB career. He has a .252 average, 66 HR and 273 RBI. At 3B and DH, his offense will def give him a chance to make the squad. Jon Heyman reported via Twitter that the Reds have signed Mike Ford to a Minor League deal.
The deal is for $1.3 if he makes the Major League Roster, with another $125K in incentives. This is Fords 6th year in the MLB, with previous stops with the Yankees, Giants, Mariners, Giants and Angels. He has a .211 batting average, 36 HR and 85 RBI. |