Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Charlie Morton is searching for answers amid one of the worst ...

<p>Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1117" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1117">Charlie Morton</a> is searching for answers amid one of the worst stretches of his 18-year career.</p><p>"The results are so bad that there will be times randomly during the day where I'll think about it. I'll think about how poorly I've pitched, and I'll think about how bad the results are," Morton said after allowing three earned runs over four innings in Wednesday's loss to the Minnesota Twins, per <a href="https://x.com/masnOrioles/status/1920310881272869372">MASN</a>.</p><p>"It's almost shocking to me because I have the experience, I have knowledge, I still think that I physically have the tools to be a halfway decent pitcher."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Morton's tenure in Baltimore is off to a nightmare start after joining on a one-year, $15-million deal. He's now 0-7 with a 9.38 ERA and 2.08 WHIP.</p><p>The 41-year-old has allowed a league-worst 33 total earned runs and has walked an American League-high 22 batters.</p><p>"Those thoughts kind of creep into your head like, 'What I am doing?'" Morton said. "Cause if I'm not helping the team, if I'm just kind of weighing the team down ... and I think that's the trap of still having my stuff come out well."</p><p>Morton is throwing his fastball and curveball, his two primary pitches, at roughly the same speeds he did in 2024 when he worked to a respectable 4.19 ERA and 1.33 WHIP in 165 1/3 innings. </p><p>He has nonetheless struggled to limit hard contact this year. His hard-hit rate has ballooned to 47.7% while his average exit velocity has risen to 91.4 mph, both of which rank in the 13th percentile.</p><p>Still, for all the struggles, the veteran isn't ready to give up yet. </p><p>"I know that may sound crazy, but not too long ago I actually had a decent year," Morton said. "So it's really hard for me not to think there's a possibility I go out there and just have a decent stretch or a decent year." </p><p>The right-hander owns a career 4.09 ERA (99 ERA+) with 2,075 strikeouts across 2,157 1/3 innings pitched.</p><p>Baltimore entered Thursday last in the AL East with a 13-22 record.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - MAY 07: Baltimore Orioles pitcher Charlie Morton (50) looks on after the first inning of the MLB game between the Baltimore Orioles and Minnesota Twins on May 7th, 2025, at Target Field in Minneapolis, MN,

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Orioles' Morton dumbfounded by struggles: 'What am I doing?'

The Arizona Diamondbacks unveiled their newest City Connect uniforms Monday.  The jerseys maintai...

<p>The Arizona Diamondbacks unveiled their newest City Connect uniforms Monday.</p><p>The jerseys maintain the "Serpientes" branding of the club's first City Connect while reintroducing the iconic purple-teal color combination made famous by their late 1990s and early 2000s squads.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DJR5FgcubvA/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DJR5FgcubvA/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>The new jerseys feature an embroidered "1998" jock tag in an outline of Arizona that pays homage to the year the club was established.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>“I think they're pretty sick," shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12530">Geraldo Perdomo</a> said of the new threads, according to <a href="https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/mlb/diamondbacks/2025/05/05/arizona-diamondbacks-new-city-connect-jersey-reaction/83444938007/">Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic</a>. "They're beautiful.</p><p>"It's like the old purple and teal that we had in 2001. Those are the best uniforms we've had so far. I think (purple) has been a part of the organization's history. It's our identity. And I like the 'Serpientes.'"</p><p>Arizona stopped wearing purple after the 2006 season. </p><p>The Diamondbacks debuted their original Serpientes City Connect uniforms, which were a desert sand color, in 2021.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/522758/cropped_GettyImages-1324413205.jpg?ts=1657303810" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/522758/w220xh124_GettyImages-1324413205.jpg?ts=1657303810 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/522758/w320xh180_GettyImages-1324413205.jpg?ts=1657303810 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/522758/w640xh360_GettyImages-1324413205.jpg?ts=1657303810 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/522758/w768xh432_GettyImages-1324413205.jpg?ts=1657303810 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/522758/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1324413205.jpg?ts=1657303810 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Norm Hall / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>"I like the purple. I like the colors of the uniform, but for a lot of people I know who have grown up in Phoenix and Scottsdale, everything about the Diamondbacks to them is purple," starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a> said.</p><p>"For them to kind of take what the people from the community wanted and pay tribute to the history of what the purple uniforms have meant to the organization I think is really cool. I think they did a really good job."</p>

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Diamondbacks bring back purple with new City Connect uniforms

Veteran pitcher Ross Stripling announced on social media Monday that he is retiring after a nine-...

<p>Veteran pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3905" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3905">Ross Stripling</a> announced on social media Monday that he is retiring after a nine-year MLB career. </p><p>"After 13 seasons and full of tremendous pride and gratitude, it's time to hang up the cleats," the 35-year-old wrote in <a href="https://x.com/RossStripling/status/1919410850437189884">a statement on X</a>. "I never could have imaged the experiences and memories I'd be a part of. They exceeded every hope that my younger self could have dreamt for my baseball career."</p><p>The Los Angeles Dodgers drafted Stripling in 2012, and he spent parts of four seasons in their minor-league system before debuting in 2016. He made his lone All-Star appearance two years later, recording a 3.02 ERA (128 ERA+) and 1.19 WHIP across 122 innings pitched.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Toronto Blue Jays acquired Stripling during the 2020 season. He struggled in his first two years in Toronto but bounced back in 2022, recording the best fielding independent pitching mark (3.11) of his career.</p><p>The right-hander signed a two-year, $25-million contract with the San Francisco Giants that began in 2023 but was traded to the Athletics ahead of what became his final campaign in 2024. </p><p>"This has been an unbelievable honor, and I feel incredibly lucky to be so fulfilled and content with leaving the game behind," Stripling posted. "Now, I'm excited to be home and begin the next chapter of life with my amazing family."</p><p>Stripling retires with a 4.17 ERA and 1.25 WHIP across 846 1/3 innings. </p><p> </p>

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 08: Ross Stripling #36 of the Oakland Athletics pitches against the Detroit Tigers in the top of the eighth inning at the Oakland Coliseum on September 8, 2024 in Oakland California.

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Former All-Star pitcher Stripling retires after 9 seasons

The Minnesota Twins are getting back two key pieces of their lineup.  Minnesota announced Monday ...

<p>The Minnesota Twins are getting back two key pieces of their lineup.</p><p>Minnesota announced Monday that it reinstated third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12346" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12346">Royce Lewis</a> and utility man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5188" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5188">Willi Castro</a> from the injured list. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14500" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14500">Edouard Julian</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15575" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15575">Mickey Gasper</a> were optioned to Triple-A St. Paul in corresponding moves.</p><p>Lewis, 25, has been sidelined since mid-March with a hamstring strain. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 2017 No. 1 pick has been a dynamic hitter when healthy but has struggled with persistent injury issues throughout his career. He has played just 152 games since debuting in 2022.</p><p>Lewis hit 16 home runs with 47 RBIs and a .747 OPS (106 OPS+) across 82 contests in 2024.</p><p>Castro, an All-Star last year, was hitting .227/.292/.364 with one home run and a stolen base in 18 games before suffering an oblique strain. </p><p>The return of both players should provide the Twins' offense with a much-needed shot in the arm. The lineup ranks 18th in MLB in runs scored (133) and 23rd in home runs (28).</p><p>Minnesota entered Monday with a 15-20 record. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JUNE 26: Willi Castro #50 of the Minnesota Twins celebrates his two-run home run with Royce Lewis #23 in the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on June 26, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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An uncharacteristically average start to the season is beginning to wear on Philadelphia Phillies...

<p>An uncharacteristically average start to the season is beginning to wear on Philadelphia Phillies superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a>.</p><p>"I'm frustrated on a bigger level," Harper said after Sunday's 11-9 loss in extra innings to the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to <a href="https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/bryce-harper-stats-phillies-bryson-stott-leadoff-lineup-20250505.html">Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer</a>.</p><p>"Obviously I've been through ruts in my career and gone through ups and downs worse than what I'm on right now. But just frustrated for the fans, frustrated for my team."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Harper hit his sixth home run in the first inning Sunday and owns a .786 OPS (119 OPS+) through 34 games. He only has 12 extra-base hits so far after recording 72 in 145 contests last year.</p><p>The two-time MVP's slugging percentage now sits at .422, well below the .519 clip he's averaged across his 14-year career. </p><p>"His expectations of himself are higher than anybody else," Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. "And he knows how important he is to the ballclub and to the city and the franchise. So, he wears it. He really does. That's who he is."</p><p>Harper is in the seventh season of a 13-year, $330-million contract. </p><p>Philadelphia's offense as a whole hasn't quite gotten rolling yet. The star-studded group ranks ninth in the National League in runs scored (159) and home runs (34) after finishing top five in both last year.</p><p>The club holds a 19-15 record after winning 95 games in 2024. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - MAY 02: Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on during a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Citizens Bank Park on May 02, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Welcome to theScore's roundup of everything you need to know from around MLB. Here we'll touch on...

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First pitch: Everything you need to know from the week in MLB

The Los Angeles Dodgers are promoting infielder Hyseong Kim to their major-league roster Saturday...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers are promoting infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/15796" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/15796">Hyseong Kim</a> to their major-league roster Saturday during their weekend series against the Atlanta Braves, the club announced.</p><p>Los Angeles signed Kim to a three-year, $12.5-million deal out of the KBO League during the offseason.</p><p>The Dodgers placed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9695" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9695">Tommy Edman</a> on the injured list with right ankle <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279576" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279576">inflammation</a> in a corresponding roster move.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kim, 26, spent spring training with the Dodgers and recorded six hits in 29 at-bats. He's been playing at Triple-A Oklahoma, where he managed a 105 wRC+ with 13 stolen bases in 28 games.</p><p>His first appearance will be his major-league debut. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3941" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3941">Chris Taylor</a> is starting Saturday's game at second base.</p><p>The Dodgers entered Saturday with an MLB-best 22-10 record. </p><p> </p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 09: Hyeseong Kim #6 of the Los Angeles Dodgers runs to first base during the seventh inning of a Spring Training game against the Athletics at Camelback Ranch on March 09, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Dodgers call up Kim, place Edman on IL with ankle inflammation

The Boston Red Sox announced Saturday that they placed first baseman Triston Casas on the injured...

<p>The Boston Red Sox announced Saturday that they placed first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12885" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12885">Triston Casas</a> on the injured list with a ruptured patellar tendon. </p><p>Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow said Casas will need surgery, and the team is not expecting him back this season, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/05/red-sox-triston-casas-has-ruptured-patellar-tendon-will-miss-rest-of-season.html">Chris Cotillo of MassLive</a>.</p><p>"It's a big loss," Breslow said. "In addition to what we think we were gonna get on the offensive side, he was a stabilizing presence and made some nice plays in the field. Also, a big personality and a big part of the clubhouse and the team. He's going to be missed in all facets."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Casas exited Friday's game against the Minnesota Twins on a cart after getting hurt while running to first base on a ground ball.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/triston-casas-reaches-on-a-fielding-error-by-pitcher-joe-ryan?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>"It's a significant knee injury," Red Sox manager Alex Cora said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/05/after-triston-casas-significant-injury-how-might-red-sox-fill-first-base.html">Cotillo</a>. "He's at the hospital right now, getting more tests and all that stuff. We'll have more information (Saturday)."</p><p>Casas was replaced at first base by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13606">Romy Gonzalez</a>.</p><p>A fractured rib limited Casas to 63 games last season.</p><p>The 25-year-old is slashing .182/.277/.303 with three home runs, three doubles, 11 walks, and 11 RBIs across 29 contests this campaign.</p><p>The Red Sox selected utility man Abraham Toro to the active roster in the corresponding roster shuffle. He and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13606">Romy Gonzalez</a> are likely to handle the bulk of the playing time at first base.</p><p>"We'll talk, and we’ll see where we're at," Breslow said, per Cotillo. "But I think Romy and Toro, they can do the job. I truly believe that, so we’re gonna roll with them."</p><p>Boston also reinstated lefty Brennan Bernardino from the paternity list while optioning <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15592" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15592">Luis Guerrero</a> to Triple-A Worcester.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MA Triston Casas #36 of the Boston Red Sox is carted off the field after sustaining an injury at first base during the second inning of a game against the Minnesota Twins in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Red Sox slugger Casas suffers ruptured patellar tendon 

Pete Crow-Armstrong spoke highly of his Chicago Cubs teammates after hitting two home runs in Fri...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12736">Pete Crow-Armstrong</a> spoke highly of his Chicago Cubs teammates after hitting two home runs in Friday's 10-0 rout of the Milwaukee Brewers. </p><p>"It's so easy to hit in this lineup," he said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JesseRogersESPN/status/1918509574434287702">ESPN's Jesse Rogers</a>. "I feel so confident going up to the plate in the 7-hole. Talk about flying under the radar. I feel like I can hide in there in a way.</p><p>"Hitting in this lineup is the biggest difference I've seen this year to any other year I’ve ever played baseball."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 23-year-old outfielder is authoring a breakout season, slashing .266/.305/.508 with six home runs, 10 doubles, and 12 stolen bases through 32 games played.</p><p>He's already accrued 2.1 fWAR, the fourth-most in the league.</p><p>Chicago's lineup has scored an MLB-leading 202 runs. The dynamic group, led by offseason-acquisition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>, leads the National League in wRC+ (126), batting average (.266), and slugging percentage (.461). </p><p>The Cubs lead baseball with 44 stolen bases, and their 49 home runs rank third behind the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees.</p><p>Crow-Armstrong and company will look to keep rolling Saturday in Milwaukee in the second game of their series with the Brewers.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - MAY 02: Pete Crow-Armstrong #4 of the Chicago Cubs runs to first base after hitting a home run during the game between the Chicago Cubs and the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on Friday, May 2, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Crow-Armstrong loving Cubs' offense: 'So easy to hit in this lineup'

The Toronto Blue Jays signed pitcher Spencer Turnbull to a major-league deal, a source told Sport...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays signed pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5365" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5365">Spencer Turnbull</a> to a major-league deal, a source told <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1918645059513098342">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>.</p><p>Financial details of the contract aren't yet known.</p><p>Toronto further bolstered its pitching depth by also signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4493" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4493">José Ureña</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1918657139624603701">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Turnbull, 32, worked to a 2.65 ERA and 1.05 WHIP with 58 strikeouts across 54 1/3 innings pitched with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024. Seven of his 17 appearances were starts.</p><p>Ureña allowed five earned runs in one appearance for the New York Mets this season before being designated for assignment. He recorded a 3.80 ERA and 1.32 WHIP in 109 innings with the Texas Rangers in 2024. </p><p>Both righties are candidates to join the Blue Jays starting rotation, which is still without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a>. Toronto has deployed Easton Lucas and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17237">Yariel Rodríguez</a> in his absence to mixed results.</p><p>Turnbull owns a career 4.26 ERA (106 ERA+) across six MLB campaigns but has not thrown more than 56 2/3 innings in a season since 2019.</p><p>Ureña holds a 4.80 ERA (85 ERA+) across 951 1/3 career innings pitched. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JUNE 26, 2024: Spencer Turnbull #22 of the Philadelphia Phillies throws a pitch during the third inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on June 26, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Report: Blue Jays sign Turnbull, Ureña to major-league contracts

The Boston Red Sox placed starting pitcher Walker Buehler on the 15-day injured list with right s...

<p>The Boston Red Sox placed starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder bursitis, the team announced.</p><p>Buehler's IL stint is retroactive to Tuesday. Right-hander Hunter Dobbins was recalled from Triple-A Worcester in a corresponding move.</p><p>Manager Alex Cora expressed optimism that Buehler's absence will be brief.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We don't think it's that serious," Cora said, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/05/red-sox-walker-buehler-shoulder-to-hit-injured-list-rookie-set-to-replace-him-in-rotation.html">Chris Cotillo of MassLive</a>. "Miss two starts and hopefully be back as soon as the days are over."</p><p>The right-hander was scheduled to pitch Friday against the Minnesota Twins but returned to Boston on Thursday to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279046" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279046">undergo tests</a> after experiencing soreness in his shoulder. </p><p>Buehler has battled injuries in recent years. He missed the entire 2023 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery and threw only 75 1/3 innings during the regular season in 2024.</p><p>The veteran owns a 4.28 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with 29 strikeouts in 33 2/3 innings pitched this season, his first with the Red Sox after leaving the Los Angeles Dodgers to sign a one-year deal worth just over $21 million. </p><p>Buehler holds a career 3.31 ERA (124 ERA+) across 747 1/3 innings.</p><p> </p>

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 26: Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Walker Buehler (0) delivers a pitch to the plate during the first inning of game 2 of the Major League Baseball doubleheader between the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Guardians on April 26, 2025, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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Red Sox place Buehler on IL with right shoulder bursitis

The Arizona Diamondbacks reinstated second baseman Ketel Marte from the injured list, the team an...

<p>The Arizona Diamondbacks reinstated second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3555" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3555">Ketel Marte</a> from the injured list, the team announced Friday.</p><p>He's batting leadoff Friday night against the Philadelphia Phillies after missing 23 games with a hamstring injury. </p><p>Outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13874" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13874">Jorge Barrosa</a> was optioned to Triple-A Reno in a corresponding move. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Marte, 31, was off to a hot start at the plate before being sidelined, slashing .346/.469/.930 through 32 plate appearances.</p><p>The switch-hitter finished third in National League MVP voting last season after posting career highs in home runs (36), RBIs (95), and OPS+ (155) while hitting atop the Diamondbacks' lineup. </p><p>On April 2, Arizona inked Marte to a $116.5-million contract extension that runs through the 2031 season.</p><p>The two-time All-Star owns a career .816 OPS (119 OPS+). </p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 30: Ketel Marte #4 of the Arizona Diamondbacks gets ready in the batters box against the Chicago Cubs at Chase Field on March 30, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

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D-Backs' Marte returns after missing 23 games with hamstring injury

The Detroit Tigers designated pitcher Kenta Maeda for assignment, they announced Thursday.  Maeda...

<p>The Detroit Tigers designated pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5339" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5339">Kenta Maeda</a> for assignment, they announced Thursday.</p><p>Maeda, 37, owns a 7.88 ERA and 1.88 WHIP through eight innings pitched for the Tigers in 2025. He's allowed nine hits and walked six batters. </p><p>The right-hander is in the final season of a two-year, $24-million contract. He struggled mightily in 2024 as well, coughing up 22 home runs with a 6.09 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 29 appearances. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Maeda has been worth minus-0.1 fWAR during his Tigers tenure. </p><p>The nine-year veteran has also pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Minnesota Twins throughout his career.</p><p>To fill Maeda's spot on the active roster, Detroit recalled right-hander Tyler Owens from Triple-A Toledo. Owens, ranked as the Tigers' No. 25 prospect by <a href="https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2009-detroit-tigers/prospects/?season=2025&amp;ranking=preseason">Baseball America</a>, owns a 4.50 ERA and 1.79 WHIP with 11 strikeouts and nine walks over 12 relief appearances with Toledo this year.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 29: Kenta Maeda #18 of the Detroit Tigers reacts in the eighth inning against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on April 29, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Tigers designate Maeda for assignment

The Cincinnati Reds announced Thursday they optioned former All-Star closer Alexis Díaz to Triple...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds announced Thursday they optioned former All-Star closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13669" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13669">Alexis Díaz</a> to Triple-A Louisville.</p><p>Right-hander Luis Mey was recalled in a corresponding move. </p><p>Díaz, 28, delivered one of the worst outings of his career Wednesday against the St. Louis Cardinals. He was called upon in the top of the ninth with the Reds trailing 1-0 but coughed up back-to-back-to-back home runs, ultimately leaving his team in a 6-0 hole.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We decided to let him try to figure out, get right in Triple-A," Reds manager Terry Francona said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/reds-alexis-diaz-c4c5060fa0f639c845adc592c3c944ad">Jeff Wallner of The Associated Press</a>. "The consistency just isn't there. It's difficult to hear that, I'm sure. We don't want that to derail him either."</p><p>The righty has been a shell of his former self since returning from the injured list, walking five batters and allowing eight hits in six innings pitched.</p><p>Díaz has posted just a 4.5 K/9 through six appearances this year, the lowest of his career by far. He recorded an 8.8 K/9 in 2024 after managing an elite 11.5 or better in his first two seasons.</p><p>"We told him, 'Hey, we're not giving up on you. Just want you to be more consistent,'" Francona said. "We need him to help us win."</p><p>Veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4500" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4500">Emilio Pagán</a> appears likely to continue closing games for the Reds. He has eight saves so far this season.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

DENVER, COLORADO - APRIL 26: Alexis Diaz #43 of the Cincinnati Reds pitches in the eighth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on April 26, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Reds option former All-Star closer Díaz to minor leagues

It's been a long road back to the major leagues for Lance McCullers.  The Houston Astros announce...

<p>It's been a long road back to the major leagues for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4233" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4233">Lance McCullers</a>.</p><p>The Houston Astros announced the right-hander will make his first start for the team since 2022 on Sunday against the Chicago White Sox, according to <a href="https://x.com/Chandler_Rome/status/1917612674067632241">The Athletic's Chandler Rome</a>.</p><p>"It's a day I've been waiting for a long time," McCullers said, according to <a href="https://x.com/brianmctaggart/status/1917618733255909828">Brian McTaggart of MLB.com</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I thank my teammates, coaching staff, (and the) Astros organization for standing by me and supporting me. I'm excited to get this type of stuff done with and just get back into the flow of pitching for this team."</p><p>McCullers, 31, opened the 2023 season on the injured list with a muscle strain in his right elbow. He then underwent surgery to repair a flexor tendon, which kept him out for the remainder of the year and all of 2024. </p><p>His last full season was in 2021 when he finished seventh in American League Cy Young voting with a 3.16 ERA and 1.22 WHIP across 162 1/3 innings. </p><p>McCullers has made just 47 starts since the end of 2018. </p><p>Other Astros starting pitchers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12203" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12203">Luis Garcia</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10662" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10662">Cristian Javier</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13784" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13784">J.P. France</a> remain sidelined with long-term injuries. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16276" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16276">Spencer Arrighetti</a>, meanwhile, is on the 15-day injured list with a fractured thumb. </p><p>Houston's current group of starters, led by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12893" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12893">Hunter Brown</a>, entered Wednesday with the AL's fourth-best ERA (3.59) and FIP (3.64). </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 13: Lance McCullers Jr. #43 of the Houston Astros watches from the dugout in the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park on April 13, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Astros' McCullers to make 1st start since 2022 on Sunday

First impressions aren't everything, but making a good one can go a long way. This is especially ...

<p>First impressions aren't everything, but making a good one can go a long way. This is especially true when you're a star player looking to endear yourself to a new organization and fan base.</p><p>Here's how 10 of MLB's biggest offseason acquisitions have fared through the season's first month.</p><p><strong>Juan Soto, Mets: B-</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781539/cropped_GettyImages-2211172766.jpg?ts=1745185697" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781539/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211172766.jpg?ts=1745185697 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781539/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211172766.jpg?ts=1745185697 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781539/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211172766.jpg?ts=1745185697 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781539/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211172766.jpg?ts=1745185697 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781539/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211172766.jpg?ts=1745185697 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Expectations for Soto were sky-high after signing the largest contract in professional sports history. The four-time All-Star hasn't yet produced like he can, but there are zero concerns since the new season is just over a month old. The 26-year-old's .374 on-base percentage is elite as always, but the powers numbers are significantly down, with three homers and a .398 slugging percentage through 30 games. However, Soto's presence in the lineup is clearly a factor, as the Mets boast an MLB-best 21-9 record. It's scary to think how good New York can be when he gets going.</p><p><strong>Kyle Tucker, Cubs: A+</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/cropped_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/781248/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208401910.jpg?ts=1745012636 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Trading for Tucker has turned the Cubs into an offensive juggernaut. The five-tool star has been his usual excellent self at the plate, slashing .288/.397/.568 with seven home runs, 25 RBIs, and eight stolen bases. It's not just his production that stands out, however, as his presence seems to have made everyone around him better. Chicago needs to do whatever it can to keep him around for the long haul, but extending the soon-to-be prize of free agency won't be easy or inexpensive.</p><p><strong>Alex Bregman, Red Sox: A</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778744/cropped_GettyImages-2208349075.jpg?ts=1743716056" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778744/w220xh124_GettyImages-2208349075.jpg?ts=1743716056 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778744/w320xh180_GettyImages-2208349075.jpg?ts=1743716056 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778744/w640xh360_GettyImages-2208349075.jpg?ts=1743716056 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778744/w768xh432_GettyImages-2208349075.jpg?ts=1743716056 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778744/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2208349075.jpg?ts=1743716056 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Greg Fiume / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Red Sox raised some eyebrows when they gave Bregman a whopping three-year, $120-million deal. However, the 31-year-old's been Boston's best player to start 2025. He leads the team in hits (40), doubles (11), homers (six), RBIs (23), batting average (.331), OPS (.971), and fWAR (1.5). The two-time All-Star entered the season with great career numbers at Fenway Park but has also been producing on the road, slashing .353/.397/.603 over 16 contests.</p><p><strong>Max Fried, Yankees: A+</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783103/cropped_GettyImages-2209894902.jpg?ts=1745944667" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783103/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209894902.jpg?ts=1745944667 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783103/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209894902.jpg?ts=1745944667 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783103/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209894902.jpg?ts=1745944667 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783103/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209894902.jpg?ts=1745944667 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783103/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209894902.jpg?ts=1745944667 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rob Tringali / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Yankees signed Fried to an eight-year megadeal hoping to pair him with Gerrit Cole and reigning rookie of the year Luis Gil. Injuries to both holdovers have forced Fried to become the ace in New York, and he's done an excellent job so far. The lefty owns a 5-0 record with a 1.19 ERA and 1.04 WHIP through six starts, having not allowed more than two earned runs in any of them. There are still questions about how this deal will age in its later years, but there's no telling where the Yankees would be right now without Fried's stabilizing presence atop the rotation.</p><p><strong>Corbin Burnes, Diamondbacks: C-</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779604/cropped_GettyImages-2207564342.jpg?ts=1744157475" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779604/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207564342.jpg?ts=1744157475 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779604/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207564342.jpg?ts=1744157475 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779604/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207564342.jpg?ts=1744157475 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779604/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207564342.jpg?ts=1744157475 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779604/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207564342.jpg?ts=1744157475 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Some concerning trends for the 2021 NL Cy Young winner have continued into this season after developing over the last few years. The 30-year-old's FIP and WHIP are consistently going up while his K/9 goes down, which suggests he's not the dominant swing-and-miss pitcher he once was. His 4.1 BB/9 in 2025 is also a career worst. Burnes' whiff rate is in the 27th percentile and hard-hit percentage is shockingly in the fifth percentile. He's got plenty of time to figure it out, but it's not ideal for the D-Backs considering they just invested $210 million in a regressing arm.</p><p><strong>Willy Adames, Giants: D</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783106/cropped_GettyImages-2211801338.jpg?ts=1745944798" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783106/w220xh124_GettyImages-2211801338.jpg?ts=1745944798 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783106/w320xh180_GettyImages-2211801338.jpg?ts=1745944798 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783106/w640xh360_GettyImages-2211801338.jpg?ts=1745944798 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783106/w768xh432_GettyImages-2211801338.jpg?ts=1745944798 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783106/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2211801338.jpg?ts=1745944798 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Andy Kuno/San Francisco Giants / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Giants have been one of baseball's surprise packages in 2025 despite Adames not yet finding his stride at the plate. The 29-year-old has hit just two<strong> </strong>home runs and holds a .591 OPS (71+) in the first season of his seven-year, $182-million contract. The fit was always questionable on paper: Oracle Park in San Francisco is a tough place for righties to hit for power. Adames will probably get it going, but it's not unreasonable to think the Giants may not be getting the 30-home run guy they paid a pretty penny for.</p><p><strong>Blake Snell, Dodgers: C</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782446/cropped_GettyImages-2209831193.jpg?ts=1745628114" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782446/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209831193.jpg?ts=1745628114 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782446/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209831193.jpg?ts=1745628114 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782446/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209831193.jpg?ts=1745628114 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782446/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209831193.jpg?ts=1745628114 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/782446/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209831193.jpg?ts=1745628114 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brandon Sloter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's not really fair to grade Snell since he's made only two starts. So, his letter is based on his lack of availability. The two-time Cy Young winner hasn't pitched in almost a month due to a shoulder issue, and a timetable for his return is unclear after a recent injection. The 32-year-old isn't new to injuries, as he logged just 104 innings last year and only made 31-plus starts in a season twice over his 10-year career. The silver lining for the Dodgers is they just need Snell to be healthy for the playoffs, as all would be forgotten with another title.</p><p><strong>Roki Sasaki</strong><strong>, Dodgers: D+</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783108/cropped_GettyImages-2212159415.jpg?ts=1745945124" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783108/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212159415.jpg?ts=1745945124 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783108/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212159415.jpg?ts=1745945124 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783108/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212159415.jpg?ts=1745945124 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783108/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212159415.jpg?ts=1745945124 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783108/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212159415.jpg?ts=1745945124 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Baseball's top prospect is clearly still adjusting to the majors after coming over from Japan. The 23-year-old starter has shown flashes of what made him such a hot commodity during the offseason, but his skills aren't refined yet and feel raw. He's only made it through six innings once and has walked almost as many batters (18) and he's struck out (20). Sasaki's Baseball Savant page is also covered with blue outside of fastball velocity. He's still oozing with potential and doesn't cost the Dodgers anything, but this looks like a long-term project.</p><p><strong>Garrett Crochet, Red Sox: A+</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778599/cropped_GettyImages-2207601827.jpg?ts=1743639739" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778599/w220xh124_GettyImages-2207601827.jpg?ts=1743639739 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778599/w320xh180_GettyImages-2207601827.jpg?ts=1743639739 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778599/w640xh360_GettyImages-2207601827.jpg?ts=1743639739 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778599/w768xh432_GettyImages-2207601827.jpg?ts=1743639739 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/778599/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2207601827.jpg?ts=1743639739 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Crochet has been exactly what Boston thought it was getting when it acquired the ace from the White Sox for a hefty package of prospects. The left-hander owns a 2.05 ERA<strong> </strong>with a 1.05 WHIP and 50 strikeouts over an MLB-high 44 innings (seven starts) while leading a rotation that's been hit hard by injuries and underperformance. The 25-year-old is doing a great job of limiting hard contact so far compared to 2024, as he's currently in the 86th percentile for hard-hit percentage compared to the 49th percentile last year.</p><p><strong>Anthony Santander, Blue Jays: D</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783112/cropped_GettyImages-2210605482.jpg?ts=1745945624" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783112/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210605482.jpg?ts=1745945624 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783112/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210605482.jpg?ts=1745945624 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783112/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210605482.jpg?ts=1745945624 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783112/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210605482.jpg?ts=1745945624 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/783112/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210605482.jpg?ts=1745945624 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mark Blinch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Santander's reputation as a slow starter wasn't exaggerated. The Blue Jays' marquee offseason addition has gotten off to a brutal start, hitting just three home runs in 28<strong> </strong>games after clubbing 44 last year. He ranks in the 38th percentile or worse in barrel rate, hard-hit rate, and expected slugging percentage. His struggles at the plate, coupled with his poor defense and baserunning, have amounted to a minus-0.4 fWAR thus far. The Blue Jays desperately need his bat to wake up if they want to avoid falling behind in the competitive AL East.</p>

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<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers announced Monday that starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a> has been placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation.</p><p>Right-hander Noah Davis was recalled in a corresponding roster move.</p><p>Glasnow exited Sunday's start before the second inning after seemingly feeling something during his warmup throws.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He believes it may be attributable to mechanical changes he's made to try to stay healthy.</p><p>"I’m just obsessed with trying to figure out what’s going on. And it’s been like this for a few years, and I’m trying to find a way to stay healthy, and I’ll try to do whatever," Glasnow said, according to <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2025/04/27/dodgers-rout-pirates-as-tyler-glasnow-exits-early-again/">Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register</a>.</p><p>"I just don’t really have an answer right now, and I think that’s the most frustrating thing. It's not a lack of trying. It’s just kind of just getting exhausting at this point. I know it’s probably exhausting for a lot of people, for me especially. ... I feel bad for my teammates. I feel bad for people watching."</p><p>It's a second consecutive early departure for Glasnow, who was pulled from his last start April 20 after just four innings due to lower leg cramps.</p><p>Injuries remain an ongoing concern for the 31-year-old. He threw a career-high 134 innings in 2024 but missed the entirety of Los Angeles' World Series run with an elbow issue.</p><p>The righty has never made more than 22 starts in a season. </p><p> </p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 27: Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on during the game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Sunday, April 27, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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<p>New York Mets owner Steve Cohen believes it's only a matter of time before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> breaks out in a big way.</p><p>"If you ask him, he'd probably say it's not going as what he hoped," Cohen said of Soto's start to the season, according to <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/steve-cohen-pete-alonso-juan-soto-4-28-25">Danny Abriano of SNY</a>. </p><p>"That's not what the back of his baseball card would say. But saying that, there's a lot of subtle things that he does that I really think matters. The way that he works the count, makes pitchers throw extra pitches, really matters."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Soto entered Monday as the owner of a .248/.374/.396 slash line and .770 OPS (122 OPS+) in 28 games.</p><p>The 26-year-old is still controlling the strike zone at an elite level: He's walked 21 times while striking out only 18 times. However, he's hit only three home runs thus far after slugging 41 last year.</p><p>"And saying that, I'm not worried about Juan," Cohen said. "He's singularly focused on baseball. He's a pure hitter. Let's have this discussion at the end of the year."</p><p>Cohen brought Soto to Queens on a 15-year, $765-million contract this past offseason, the richest in baseball history. </p><p>The lefty phenom is MLB's active leader in on-base percentage (.419) and has hit 204 home runs through eight campaigns. </p><p> </p><p> </p>

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 26: New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto (22) looks on during an MLB game against the Washington Nationals on April 26, 2025 at Nationals Park in Washington, DC.

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<p>The Atlanta Braves signed outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3674" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/3674">Eddie Rosario</a> to a major-league contract, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Rosario appeared in two games with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025 before being designated for assignment and electing free agency. </p><p>This latest stint with the Braves will be Rosario's third. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Atlanta first acquired the lefty in a midseason trade in 2021, and he became an integral part of their World Series team. He joined the Nationals as a free agent ahead of the 2024 season but wound up back with the Braves on a minor-league deal partway through the year after being released.</p><p>The 11-year veteran owns a career .748 OPS (100 OPS+). </p><p>The Braves optioned outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10712" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10712">Jarred Kelenic</a> to Triple-A Gwinnett in the corresponding roster shuffle. The former top prospect slashed .167/.231/.300 with two home runs in 23 games after posting a .679 OPS in 2024. </p><p>Righty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12846" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12846">Davis Daniel</a> was also optioned to Triple-A while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8134" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8134">Ian Anderson</a>, another member of the 2021 World Series team, reported to Atlanta after being claimed off waivers Sunday from the Los Angeles Angels.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 02, 2025: Eddie Rosario #9 of the Los Angeles Dodgers bats during the fifth inning of a spring training game against the Chicago White Sox at Camelback Ranch on March 02, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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<p>New York Yankees second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a> will no longer be suspended for posting on X during an April 17 game.</p><p>Chisholm was originally handed a one-game ban for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3270397" href="https://thescore.com/news/3270397">tweeting</a> 'not even f------ close' shortly after getting tossed from that contest against the Tampa Bay Rays by umpire John Bacon for arguing balls and strikes. </p><p>The second baseman intended to appeal the suspension but his meeting with the league never happened. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"They were just like 'There's no suspension, guys,'" he said, according to <a href="https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/04/27/yankees-jazz-chisholm-jr-suspension-mlb-appeal/">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News.</a> "I think they talked to my agent."</p><p>A league source told Phillips that MLB and Chisholm reached a settlement agreement that rescinded the suspension yet kept the $5,000 fine.</p><p><a href="https://www.mlb.com/player-resource-center/player-policies">MLB's Social Media Policy</a> prohibits the use of electronics during games with no specified exceptions for ejected players. It also prohibits conduct that questions the impartiality of umpires or denigrates them.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 25: Jazz Chisholm Jr. #13 of the New York Yankees stands by the dugout after the top of the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on April 25, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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Ben Wrixon

Associate Baseball News Editor

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Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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