The Los Angeles Angels signed veteran reliever Héctor Neris to a minor-league contract, the team ...

The Los Angeles Angels signed veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3377" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/3377">Héctor Neris</a> to a minor-league contract, the team announced Thursday.Neris will make $1.5 million if he's added to the major-league roster, according to <a href="https://x.com/AriA1exander/status/1912953253018669348">Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston</a>.The right-hander started the season with the Atlanta Braves but was designated for assignment after allowing five earned runs in two appearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 35-year-old is just two years removed from a highly effective campaign with the Houston Astros in 2023, during which he worked to a 1.71 ERA and 1.05 WHIP with a 10.1 K/9 across 68 1/3 innings. Los Angeles entered Thursday with its bullpen owning the worst ERA (6.11) and FIP (5.24) in the American League. Neris holds a 3.40 ERA (123 ERA+) across 610 career appearances.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 30: Hector Neris #50 of the Atlanta Braves throws a pitch against the San Diego Padres during the eighth inning at Petco Park on March 30, 2025 in San Diego, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31000567/related

Angels sign Neris to minor-league contract

Max Verstappen is focused on winning races as rumors about him leaving Red Bull continue to swirl...

Max Verstappen is focused on winning races as rumors about him leaving Red Bull continue to swirl."Honestly a lot of people are talking about it, except me," Verstappen said, according to <a href="https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/max-verstappen-responds-to-red-bull-exit-fears/10714254/">Jake Boxall-Legge of Autosport.com</a>. "I just want to focus on my car, work with the people in the team - that's the only thing I'm thinking about in Formula 1. I'm very relaxed."Verstappen followed up a win in Japan two weeks ago with a sixth place at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday. Afterward, he voiced his displeasure with many aspects of the Red Bull Racing RB21.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, then <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3267700" href="https://thescore.com/news/3267700">indicated</a> that Verstappen could leave if improvements aren't made to the car. He's previously spoken about a performance-related clause in Verstappen's contract that could force the issue."I am happy (at Red Bull). I'm just not very happy with, of course, our car," Verstappen said. "But that goes for everyone. We all want to be better, there's no secret about that. That's what we're trying to improve."Talks of Verstappen leaving Red Bull first gained steam during the second half of the 2024 season, when the Dutchman secured the World Drivers' Championship despite winning just two of the final 14 races.He ranks third in this season's standings (69 points) behind McLaren drivers Lando Norris (77) and Oscar Piastri (74).Verstappen and Red Bull will look to get back on track in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.

JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA - ARPIL 17: Max Verstappen of Red Bull participates in a news conference ahead of the Formula 1 Saudi Arabia Grand Prix at the 6.1 kilometer long Jeddah Corniche Circuit, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, April 17, 2025.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30998999/related

Verstappen 'very relaxed' at Red Bull, focused on improving car

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola is frustrated by one of the worst stretches of ...

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4777" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4777">Aaron Nola</a> is frustrated by one of the worst stretches of his 11-year career.The righty allowed seven runs over 5 1/3 innings pitched in Wednesday night's loss to the San Francisco Giants. He issued four walks, including one with the bases loaded for the second consecutive start."It drives me crazy," Nola said of the bases-loaded walk, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/aaron-nola-s-early-struggles-continue-in-phillies-loss">Todd Zolecki of MLB.com</a>. “I mean, it's unacceptable. Three times in my career I've done that, and two times in the past two games.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I've just got to get ahead better. Too many free passes, and usually those runners have been scoring. I'm just making it harder on myself in those situations. Eight walks in two games overall. That's not good. I'll clean it up."Nola owns an 0-4 record with a 6.65 ERA and 1.66 WHIP through four starts, having allowed a National League-high 16 earned runs. His walk rate has increased from 6.1% last year to 9% in 2025.The 31-year-old received downballot Cy Young votes in 2024 after working to a 3.57 ERA (115 ERA+) in 33 starts."My body feels good," Nola said. "Definitely the worst start I've ever had by far. All I can do is keep working and keep trying to have good weeks and prepare as best as I can for the next game I pitch. Take all my work into that game and just compete."The one-time All-Star holds a career 3.74 ERA and 1.14 WHIP with a 9.9 K/9 through 1643 innings pitched. He's in the second season of a seven-year, $172-million contract.

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 30: Aaron Nola #27 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on from the dugout after leaving the game during the sixth inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on March 30, 2025 in Washington, DC.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30996814/related

Phillies' Nola laments command issues amid 'worst start' of career

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Myles Straw isn't just playing his best baseball in years - he's hav...

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8938" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8938">Myles Straw</a> isn't just playing his best baseball in years - he's having a great time doing it too."I'm having the most fun I probably had in my career," he said, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/blue-jays-myles-straw-back-to-having-fun-on-the-field/">Sportnet's David Singh</a>. "I'm happy to be here no matter what, whether I'm playing or not. I look forward to helping the team win that day, and it's just fun. It's fun to be around these guys every day."The Cleveland Guardians traded Straw and international bonus pool money to the Blue Jays during the offseason - a deal that was heavily criticized after Toronto failed to land prized amateur free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Straw's fit and price tag both raised concern. The 30-year-old accrued just 0.2 fWAR in 2023 and spent most of the 2024 season in the minor leagues despite owning a five-year, $25-million contract."I almost feel like I lost some love for the game," Straw said of his struggles. "And when you start doing that, the game doesn't give love back to you."Straw is already worth 0.5 fWAR in 13 games with the Blue Jays, filling in for injured outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9524" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9524">Daulton Varsho</a>. He's slashing .379/.419/.552 with a home run and two doubles.His defense, long his calling card, has also been excellent: He ranks in the 92nd percentile for outs above average.The Blue Jays entered Wednesday with a 10-8 record.

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 31: George Springer, Myles Straw #3, and Alan Roden #18 of Toronto Blue Jays celebrate defeating the Washington Nationals in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on March 31, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30986963/related

Straw 'having the most fun' of career playing with Blue Jays

Juan Soto is still adjusting to life as a New York Met.   MLB's highest-paid player believes pitc...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> is still adjusting to life as a New York Met. MLB's highest-paid player believes pitchers are attacking him differently now that he doesn't have former teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> protecting him in the New York Yankees' lineup."It's definitely different," Soto said of pitchers' approach, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/04/14/sports/juan-soto-talks-to-post-about-pitchers-approach-without-aaron-judge-protection/">Mike Puma of the New York Post</a>. "I had the best hitter in baseball hitting behind me. I was getting more attacked and more pitches in the strike zone, less intentional walks and things like that. I was pitched differently last year."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Soto hit his second home run of the season in the Mets' 5-1 win over the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday night. The 26-year-old owns a .250/.400/.429 slash line with six RBIs through his first 16 games as a Met. He had three home runs and 15 RBIs in his first 16 games with the Yankees in 2024.Opposing pitchers seemingly prefer to take their chances with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, who has thrived hitting behind Soto. Alonso entered Tuesday with the highest OPS (1.136) in the National League."Everybody has got a role and I feel as a team, we have got to attack pitchers as a team," Soto said. "We don't have to attack the pitchers as individuals. If they don't want to pitch to me, I just pass the baton and let (Alonso) do his thing. If they don't want to pitch to him, he should do the same thing."The Mets have gotten off to an 11-5 start even though their offense isn't firing on all cylinders: They've only scored 66 runs as a team while posting the NL's fifth-lowest WRC+ (94).Soto hit a career-high 41 home runs with 109 RBIs in 2024.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 14: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets looks on during an at-bat against the Minnesota Twins in the first inning at Target Field on April 14, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Mets defeated the Twins 5-1.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30975165/related

Soto: 'I was pitched differently' in Yankees' lineup with Judge

Atlanta Braves ace Chris Sale ripped his latest poor performance after Sunday's 8-3 loss to the T...

Atlanta Braves ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1577" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1577">Chris Sale</a> ripped his latest poor performance after Sunday's 8-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. "Frustrated would be a wild understatement," he said after allowing four runs in 4 1/3 innings pitched, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/chris-sale-struggles-in-braves-loss-to-rays">Mark Bowman of MLB.com</a>. "I just hate sucking, and I'm just bad. It's simple."The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner has been a shell of himself through his first four starts in 2025. He owns a 6.63 ERA and 1.53 WHIP after winning the pitching triple crown last year.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He's one of several key players struggling on a Braves team that has stumbled to a 4-11 record out of the gate. "I don't know if I’ve ever been this frustrated, honestly," Sale said. "I feel like I'm banging my (freaking) head against the wall right now, and I'm getting nothing out of it."Sale showed signs of rounding into form despite the poor results. His fastball averaged 96.2 mph on Sunday after sitting at just 93.2 mph through his first three outings. His 41.7% chase rate also ranks in the 95th percentile. His next start is likely to be next weekend against the Minnesota Twins.

TAMPA, FLORIDA - APRIL 13: Chris Sale #51 of the Atlanta Braves reacts in the fifth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on April 13, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30963079/related

Braves' Sale frustrated amid poor start: 'I just hate sucking'

Toronto Blue Jays closer Jeff Hoffman was pitching with some extra emotion during Sunday's 7-6 wi...

Toronto Blue Jays closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a> was pitching with some extra emotion during Sunday's 7-6 win over the Baltimore Orioles. The closer, who nearly joined the Orioles in the offseason as a free agent before a deal fell apart due to failed physical assessments, blew a kiss at Baltimore's dugout after closing out the game.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jeff Hoffman blows as a kiss to the O’s bench <a href="https://t.co/OzOeYdXmr4">pic.twitter.com/OzOeYdXmr4</a>— Paul Mancano (@PaulMancano) <a href="https://twitter.com/PaulMancano/status/1911525338125095021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"When I'm thinking about the games before the games are being played and stuff, yeah, obviously that's in definitely my head, but once I'm in the game, in the moment, I'm focused on making pitches," Hoffman told reporters, including Jacob Calvin Meyer of <a href="https://x.com/jcalvinmeyer/status/1911535557160612182">The Baltimore Sun</a>, postgame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"If you get started thinking about all that stuff while you're out there, things tend not to go well. So I do my best to stay in the moment and just try to make the next pitch and get my team back in the dugout."Hoffman held the Orioles scoreless in the ninth inning before coming back out to secure the win in the tenth.The righty has made an excellent first impression since joining the Blue Jays on a three-year, $33-million contract. He owns a 0.96 ERA and 0.64 WHIP with 13 strikeouts through 9 2/3 innings pitched. "I did not see (the kiss), but whatever he wants to do, he can do it," Blue Jays outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8938" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8938">Myles Straw</a> said, according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1911543713039303020">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>. "As long as he keeps pitching like that, he can do whatever he wants."Hoffman was an All-Star in 2024 as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies.He and the Blue Jays head home to Toronto to open a three-game series against the Atlanta Braves on Monday.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 13: Jeff Hoffman #23 of the Toronto Blue Jays celebrates with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 after a 7-6 victory against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 13, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30961729/related

Blue Jays' Hoffman blows kiss at Orioles' dugout after closing game

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Springer left Sunday's game against the Baltimore Orioles wit...

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George Springer</a> left Sunday's game against the Baltimore Orioles with left wrist discomfort.X-rays on Springer's wrist were negative, and the Blue Jays are considering him day-to-day, according to <a href="https://x.com/ArdenZwelling/status/1911529598954995861">Sportsnet's Arden Zwelling</a>.Springer <a href="https://x.com/thejaysnation/status/1911500410944438338">looked uncomfortable after a swing</a> during an at-bat in the fifth inning. He convinced team trainers to let him stay in the game but shook out his hand in visible pain after striking out.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15496" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15496">Will Wagner</a> pinch hit for Springer when his spot in the lineup came up again in the top of the seventh inning. Springer was serving as designated hitter.The 35-year-old has been hot to start the season, hitting .375/.436/.604 with two home runs and 10 RBIs through 16 games. He's hit three doubles and one triple while stealing two bases.Springer struggled for much of 2024, hitting just 19 home runs with a career-low .674 OPS (91 OPS+) in 145 games.The Blue Jays ultimately won the game 7-6 in 10 innings.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 12: George Springer #4 of the Toronto Blue Jays reacts after flying out in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 12, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30957830/related

Blue Jays' Springer day-to-day after exiting with wrist discomfort

Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout took the high road after a fan impeded his ability to catch a ...

Los Angeles Angels star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a> took the high road after a fan impeded his ability to catch a fly ball in foul territory during the second inning of Saturday night's game against the Houston Astros. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/tyler-anderson-foul-to-yainer-diaz-jc0iqa?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/tyler-anderson-foul-to-yainer-diaz-jc0iqa">MLB.com</a>)"They were really apologetic," Trout said after meeting with the fan and his young son, who he was trying to protect by catching the ball, according to Jeff Fletcher of <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2025/04/12/angels-win-in-houston-after-fan-pulls-ball-from-mike-trouts-glove/">The Orange County Register.</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Obviously, didn't really affect the game. I got a kid myself. That kid was probably nine years old. ... They're really nice people."Trout immediately motioned to the umpires for an interference call after the incident occurred, but they ruled no interference because the contact was initiated out of bounds in foul territory. The three-time MVP said postgame that the fan got a finger on the ball before he caught it, meaning the play would have been ruled dead regardless of whether he made the catch, per Fletcher. The incident was ultimately inconsequential, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15394" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15394">Yainer Diaz</a> was retired on the next pitch.The Angels went on to win the game 4-1.

HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 12: Los Angeles Angels right fielder Mike Trout (27) complains to first base umpire Alan Porter (64) after a fan interfered with his catch in the bottom of the second inning during the MLB game between the Los Angeles Angels and Houston Astros at Daikin Park on April 12, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30950476/related

Trout forgives 'really apologetic' Astros fan who stole fly ball

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora didn't mince words after the Chicago White Sox embarrassed his t...

Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora didn't mince words after the Chicago White Sox embarrassed his team 11-1 on Friday night."We didn't hit. We didn't play defense. We didn't pitch," Cora said, per <a href="https://x.com/NESN/status/1910887715626680651">NESN</a>. "Turn the page, be ready for tomorrow. We just gotta be better."Chicago entered the contest on an eight-game losing streak but scored double-digit runs for the second time this season with the help of Boston's five errors, its most in a game since 2021.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4767" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4767">Sean Newcomb</a> lasted just four innings, allowing six runs - only two of which were earned - on six hits. He also walked two batters. Offensively, Boston's star hitters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> combined for one hit. "It's a horrible night, we know it," Cora said. "It's a horrible night in every aspect of the game. We didn't play well. They know it, we know it, I know it. Just got to show up tomorrow and win a game."The Red Sox dropped to 7-8 on the year after the loss, which was their fourth in their past five games. The White Sox, meanwhile, improved to 3-10 after getting back in the win column.Game 2 of the series gets underway at 4:10 p.m. ET Saturday.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - APRIL 11: Triston Casas #36 of the Boston Red Sox tags out Luis Robert Jr. #88 of the Chicago White Sox at first base during the first inning at Rate Field on April 11, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30937588/related

Cora: Red Sox 'just gotta be better' after blowout loss to White Sox

The Los Angeles Dodgers activated star first baseman Freddie Freeman from the injured list, the t...

The Los Angeles Dodgers activated star first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a> from the injured list, the team announced Friday.Freeman is batting fourth and playing at first against the Chicago Cubs.The 35-year-old landed on the injured list in early April with an ankle injury after slipping in the shower. The ankle he hurt was the same one he had surgically repaired during the offseason. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Freeman had an MRI exam on his ankle that only showed scar tissue fraying, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1910817594703306838">ESPN's Alden González</a>.The eight-time All-Star was off to a hot start at the plate before being sidelined, having hit two home runs with a 1.083 OPS through 12 plate appearances. He owns a career .899 OPS (142 OPS+) through 16 seasons.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 29: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts to his solo home run while rounding the bases in the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Dodger Stadium on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30932508/related

Dodgers reinstate Freeman from IL

New York Yankees closer Devin Williams is searching for answers amid a rocky start with his new t...

New York Yankees closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> is searching for answers amid a rocky start with his new team. "I haven't felt like 100% myself up to this point, but I would say I'm getting closer," Williams said after being pulled in the ninth inning of Wednesday's 4-3 win over the Detroit Tigers, per <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/yankees-devin-williams-still-figuring-stuff-out-early-season-struggles">SNY</a>.The righty's ERA ballooned to 12.00 after allowing three earned runs against Detroit. He was relieved by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9004" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9004">Mark Leiter Jr.</a>, who recorded the final out of the game to nail down the win for the Yankees. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Williams surrendered a walk-off single in extra innings against the Pittsburgh Pirates in his previous appearance on April 6."I'm confident this is going to be a distant memory as we continue to move forward," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said."(Williams is) not far off. Just a little better strike-throwing. Once he starts doing that and dictating counts, then you're going to see it because his stuff is not far off. This is his fourth outing. He'll be fine, he'll get through this. Just early part of the season."The Yankees acquired Williams during the offseason from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9727" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9727">Nestor Cortes</a>. He pitched to a sparkling 1.25 ERA and 0.97 WHIP over 22 appearances in 2024. Williams is a two-time All-Star with 69 career saves.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - APRIL 09: Devin Williams #38 of the New York Yankees delivers a pitch against the Detroit Tigers during the bottom of the ninth inning at Comerica Park on April 09, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30912952/related

Williams: 'Haven't felt like 100% myself' with Yankees so far

The San Diego Padres placed outfielder Jackson Merrill on the 10-day injured list with a hamstrin...

The San Diego Padres placed outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14111" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14111">Jackson Merrill</a> on the 10-day injured list with a hamstring strain, the club announced Tuesday. Merrill, who was held out of Monday's game against the Athletics, is walking fine but not recovering as quickly as hoped, according to <a href="https://x.com/sdutKevinAcee/status/1909747419157610899">Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune</a>.The Padres locked up the 21-year-old for the long term last week on a nine-year, $135-million <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3256488" href="https://thescore.com/news/3256488">contract extension</a>. Escalators and a 10th-year option can bring the total value of the deal to $204 million. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Merrill has been worth every penny at the plate thus far in 2025, slashing .378/.415/.676 with three home runs and 10 RBIs in 10 games. San Diego recalled outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10161" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10161">Oscar Gonzalez</a> from Triple-A in a corresponding move. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13983" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13983">Brandon Lockridge</a> played center field in Merrill's absence Monday night and remains a candidate for playing time.San Diego entered Tuesday with an MLB-best 9-2 record.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 02: Jackson Merrill #3 of the San Diego Padres bats during the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Petco Park on April 02, 2025 in San Diego, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30900618/related

Padres place Merrill on IL with hamstring strain

The Toronto Blue Jays have made progress in contract extension talks with star first baseman Vlad...

The Toronto Blue Jays have made progress in contract extension talks with star first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a>, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/04/06/sports/mets-fans-vlad-guerrero-jr-affection-may-be-for-naught-and-thats-for-the-best/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.If finalized, the deal is expected to pay Guerrero around $500 million over 14 years.Discussions are seemingly ongoing despite Guerrero's self-imposed deadline at the beginning of spring training. The Blue Jays <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3251507" href="https://thescore.com/news/3251507">reportedly</a> made him a new offer at the end of March.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Guerrero is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3239777" href="https://thescore.com/news/3239777">reportedly</a> seeking a contract worth $500 million in present-day value before deferrals.The 26-year-old is slashing .256/.333/.333 through 10 games this season. The four-time All-Star hit 30 home runs with a .940 OPS (167 OPS+) last year.Guerrero and the Blue Jays will open a four-game series Monday against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 02: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays bats in the first inning during a game against the Washington Nationals at Rogers Centre on April 02, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30883084/related

Report: Jays making progress in Guerrero extension talks

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki came away from his start against the Philadelphia Phillie...

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a> came away from his start against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday feeling positive."I felt I had something," Sasaki said postgame through an interpreter, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6257928/2025/04/05/dodgers-win-phillies-roki-sasaki-bounce-back-start/">Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic</a>.Sasaki allowed just one earned run over four innings pitched in the Dodgers' 3-1 win at Citizens Bank Park.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Last time around, I felt like I wanted to throw strikes, but I couldn’t," he added. "I really worked on my mechanics since that game and really felt like I was able to do that today."Sasaki struggled in his previous outing against the Detroit Tigers at Dodger Stadium on March 29, walking four batters while failing to make it through the second inning. The 23-year-old was visibly emotional after being removed from that game and admitted to feeling nervous ahead of Saturday's start."I did go through the week feeling a little anxious," Sasaki said. "I was searching for something that I could feel confident about."Sasaki joined the defending-champion Dodgers this offseason as an amateur international free agent to much fanfare, immediately becoming one of the most hyped prospects in recent memory.He owns a 4.15 ERA and a 2.08 WHIP through three MLB starts.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 05: Roki Sasaki #11 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches during the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on April 05, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30868780/related

Sasaki encouraged after latest start: 'Felt I had something'

New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. believes his teammate Aaron Judge is already an...

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> believes his teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> is already an all-time great."Guys keep getting on for him, and he just keeps on performing and showing us why he's the MVP of the league and one of the best players to ever play this game," Chisholm said of Judge after the Yankees' 9-7 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday night, per <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1907989375574524014">SNY</a>."We all just try to be like him. We all tell him every day, 'Hey, we want to be you when we grow up.' But at the same time, we're out here playing a team game, and we've got our big brother leading us, and he helps a lot."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Judge kick-started the Yankees' offense in the bottom of the first inning with his MLB-leading fifth home run of the season, a three-run blast off Diamondbacks starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4059" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4059">Merrill Kelly</a>. The home run was the 500th extra-base hit of Judge's career in his 999th game, making him the third-fastest Yankee to reach the mark behind Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig.The reigning AL MVP later added a double and a single to up his slash line to a ridiculous .417/.481/1.167 through six contests. Judge also stole his first base of the season in the fourth inning."I told (Chisholm) I was going to catch him in stolen bases this year, so I think we're both trying to beat each other," Judge <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1907991583640736042">joked</a> postgame. "It's going to be a good year. We're going to go out there and continue to push each other. I think everyone in this clubhouse is striving to be great."Judge hit a league-leading 58 home runs in 2024 while establishing new career highs in OPS (1.159), OPS+ (223), and RBIs (144). The 32-year-old entered Thursday having already accrued 52 career fWAR.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 03: Jazz Chisholm Jr. #13 of the New York Yankees celebrates his fourth inning two-run home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks with teammate Aaron Judge #99 at Yankee Stadium on April 03, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30844683/related

Yankees' Chisholm: Judge 'one of the best players to ever play this game'

The Los Angeles Dodgers placed star first baseman Freddie Freeman on the 10-day injured list with...

The Los Angeles Dodgers placed star first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a> on the 10-day injured list with an ankle injury, the club announced Thursday. The move is retroactive to March 31, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabianArdaya/status/1907951738541297713">Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic</a>.Freeman injured his ankle earlier this week when he slipped in the<a href="https://thescore.com/news/3255344"> shower</a>. He sprained the same ankle late last year and needed surgery in the offseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 35-year-old hit a two-run home run and a double in his last appearance on March 29 against the Detroit Tigers.Los Angeles has kept up its winning ways even without the reigning World Series MVP in its lineup, becoming the first defending champions in MLB history to begin the season with an 8-0 record.Freeman owns a 1.083 OPS through 12 plate appearances in 2025.L.A. recalled catcher Hunter Feduccia from Triple-A Oklahoma City in a corresponding roster move.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 29: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Los Angeles Dodgers fields the ball during a 7-3 win over the Detroit Tigers at Dodger Stadium on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30842580/related

Dodgers place Freeman on IL with ankle injury after shower slip

Starting pitcher Sean Manaea isn't rejoining the New York Mets' rotation any time soon after expe...

Starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4239">Sean Manaea</a> isn't rejoining the New York Mets' rotation any time soon after experiencing a setback in his rehab from an oblique injury he suffered during spring training."He experienced some discomfort a couple of days ago while he was starting to ramp up," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said Tuesday, per <a href="https://x.com/SNYtv/status/1907161155195342953">SNY</a>."We took an MRI again and it showed inflammation, so he got a PRP injection yesterday. He's not throwing for two weeks now."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Mendoza acknowledged that the setback likely means Manaea won't return until mid to late May. Previous <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3225687">reports</a> said the Mets didn't consider the injury serious and expected him back in April.Mets starting pitchers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5006" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5006">Frankie Montas</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8406" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8406">Paul Blackburn</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17559" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17559">Christian Scott</a> also remain sidelined.Manaea returned to New York on a three-year, $75-million contract during the offseason. The lefty recorded a 3.47 ERA (114 ERA+) across a career-high 181 2/3 innings pitched in 2024.The 33-year-old owns a 4.00 ERA and 1.20 WHIP through nine MLB campaigns.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 20: Starting pitcher Sean Manaea #59 of the New York Mets reacts as he leaves the game during the 3rd inning of Game Six of the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30817234/related

Mets' Manaea won't throw for 2 weeks after suffering setback

Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz is the latest player to produce impressive results with...

Cincinnati Reds shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14246">Elly De La Cruz</a> is the latest player to produce impressive results with a torpedo bat.The dynamic star went 4-for-5 with two home runs and seven RBIs in the Reds' 14-3 rout of the Texas Rangers on Monday night.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/elly-de-la-cruz-s-stellar-game-at-the-plate?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/elly-de-la-cruz-s-stellar-game-at-the-plate?q=Elly%20De%20La%20Cruz&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">MLB.com</a>)<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It feels good," De La Cruz said of hitting with a torpedo bat, according to <a href="https://x.com/char_cliff/status/1906879710988009950">Charlie Clifford of NBC 5 Cincinnati</a>. "It feels really good."The new style of bat, named for the torpedo-esque shape, is thickest near the label rather than the barrel. The bats first came to the baseball world's attention during the New York Yankees' home run barrage against the Milwaukee Brewers over the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3253934" href="https://thescore.com/news/3253934">weekend</a>.MLB declared the torpedo bats legal despite skepticism and concern. Some players have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3255055" href="https://thescore.com/news/3255055">criticized</a> them, while others, such as Yankees infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr</a>., have defended them.Switching to the torpedo bat seemed to spark De La Cruz, who entered Monday's game with just an extra-base hit on the season."It’s more the player than the bat," Reds manager Terry Francona said of his young star's performance, per <a href="https://x.com/char_cliff/status/1906878965719130333">Clifford</a>. He added: "I told him the most impressive thing was the line drive to left field - you better make some pretty good pitches if he is on balance like that."De La Cruz, 23, entered the season as a potential MVP candidate in the National League after hitting 25 home runs and stealing an MLB-leading 67 bases in 2024. Cincinnati continues its series against Texas on Tuesday.

CINCINNATI, OHIO - MARCH 31: Elly De La Cruz #44 of the Cincinnati Reds flips his bat on a two-run home run in the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Great American Ball Park on March 31, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30810379/related

Reds' De La Cruz has 2-HR, 7-RBI game with torpedo bat

Major League Baseball suspended Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar for 80 games on Monday...

Major League Baseball suspended Atlanta Braves outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2876" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2876">Jurickson Profar</a> for 80 games on Monday for violating its performance-enhancing drug policy.Profar tested positive for HCG, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/1906827857591955529">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>. One of HCG's effects includes boosting testosterone production.The switch-hitting 32-year-old joined the Braves on a three-year, $42-million contract this past offseason after a breakout 2024 campaign with the San Diego Padres.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Today is the most difficult day of my baseball career," Profar said in a statement, according to <a href="https://x.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1906831659728797936">ESPN's Alden González</a>. "I am devastated to announce that I have been suspended for 80 games by Major League Baseball and the Commissioner's office, for testing positive for a banned substance this offseason. This is especially painful for me because anyone who knows me and has seen me play knows I am deeply passionate about the game. There is nothing I love more than competing with my teammates and being a fan favorite."I want to apologize to the entire Braves organization, my teammates, and the fans. It is because of my deep love and respect for this game that I would never knowingly do anything to cheat it. I have been tested my entire career, including eight times last season alone, and have never tested positive. I would never willingly take a banned substance, but I take full responsibility and accept MLB's decision."I am devastated that I won't be on the field with my teammates for the next 80 games. I look forward to competing again at the highest level this season upon my return."Profar will be ineligible to play in the postseason under MLB's current roster rules and eligibility requirements.The 12-year-veteran hit a career-high 24 home runs last season while posting his highest slugging percentage (.459) in a season with at least 100 at-bats. His average exit velocity of 91.1 mph was in the 80th percentile and substantially higher than the 86.5 mph he put up in 2023.He recorded three hits in 15 at-bats during the Braves' first four games of 2025.Atlanta added outfield depth earlier Monday by acquiring <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12532">Stuart Fairchild</a> from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for cash considerations.Profar owns a career .245/.331/.394 slash line with 111 home runs.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 30: Jurickson Profar #7 of the Atlanta Braves looks on during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on March 30, 2025 in San Diego, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/30807150/related

Braves' Profar suspended 80 games for PED violation

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/ben-wrixon/content_cards