Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant will miss Monday's game in Phoenix against the Suns and Wedn...

<p>Houston Rockets forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/345" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/345">Kevin Durant</a> will miss Monday's game in Phoenix against the Suns and Wednesday's contest in Golden State versus the Warriors while tending to a family matter, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1992688375044940286">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Monday was scheduled to be Durant's first game against the Suns since they traded him to Houston in July. The 37-year-old spent the past three campaigns with Phoenix and previously played three years with Golden State.</p><p>Durant is averaging 24.6 points through 14 contests in his first season with the Rockets.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Houston owns a 10-4 record and sits fifth in the Western Conference after acquiring Durant as part of a seven-team trade.</p>

HOUSTON, TX - NOVEMBER 16: Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets dribbles the ball during the game against the Orlando Magic on November 16, 2025 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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Report: Durant to miss 2 games due to family matter

The Detroit Tigers are on the hunt for starting pitching and might make an unorthodox signing to ...

<p>The Detroit Tigers are on the hunt for starting pitching and might make an unorthodox signing to fill their need.</p><p>Detroit is talking to free-agent right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a> about becoming a starter, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6830980/2025/11/23/ryan-helsley-starter-detroit-tigers/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, Cody Stavenhagen, and Katie Woo</a>.</p><p>The Tigers are slated to enter next season with a rotation featuring back-to-back AL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5646">Jack Flaherty</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10561" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10561">Casey Mize</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20103" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20103">Troy Melton</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15420">Reese Olson</a> is also expected to return from season-ending shoulder surgery, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17680" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17680">Jackson Jobe</a> will likely miss most of 2026 after Tommy John surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Helsley has pitched every game of his major-league career in relief and hasn't started a professional baseball game since 2019 with the St. Louis Cardinals' Triple-A affiliate.</p><p>The free-agent crop of relievers this offseason is far more plentiful than the market for starters, and converting to the new role could provide Helsley with more options for a deal. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8239">Clay Holmes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5533" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5533">Seth Lugo</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9842" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9842">Michael King</a> successfully transitioned from the bullpen to starting roles in recent years.</p><p>Helsley led the majors with 49 saves in 2024, but he wasn't as effective last season for the Cardinals, who traded him to the New York Mets in July. The 31-year-old couldn't turn things around in New York, posting a 7.20 ERA and 1.80 WHIP in 22 games.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 17: Ryan Helsley #56 of the New York Mets throws a pitch in the eighth inning during a game against the San Diego Padres at Citi Field on September 17, 2025 in New York City.

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Report: Tigers talking to free agent Helsley about starting role

The Texas Rangers non-tendered outfielder Adolis García ahead of Friday's deadline, the team anno...

<p>The Texas Rangers non-tendered outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8821" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8821">Adolis García</a> ahead of Friday's deadline, the team announced.</p><p>Garcia was projected to earn $12.1 million in arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2026.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><p>The 32-year-old slashed .227/.271/.394 with 19 home runs, 75 RBIs, and 13 steals in 135 games last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The two-time All-Star hit 141 homers and 458 RBIs while stealing 74 bases and winning a Gold Glove during his six seasons with the Rangers.</p><p>He was also named ALCS MVP in 2023 after slashing .357/.400/.893 with five homers and 15 RBIs in seven games against the Houston Astros. The Rangers went on to win the World Series that year.</p><p>Texas also non-tendered catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5040" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5040">Jonah Heim</a> as well as right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10583" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10583">Jacob Webb</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8475" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8475">Josh Sborz</a>. Heim and Sborz were part of the team's 2023 World Series squad.</p><p>"I'd like to express the club's sincere appreciation for the efforts of each of the four players included in today's announcement," Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young said in a statement. "Regardless of what happens moving forward, Adolis, Jonah, and Josh will always be remembered for their contributions to the first World Series title in franchise history. Those memories will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Rangers fans. We are grateful for their time in Texas and the mark they have left on this franchise."</p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 23: Adolis García #53 of the Texas Rangers reacts to a called strike during the second inning against the Minnesota Twins at Globe Life Field on September 23, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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Rangers non-tender García, Heim

The Arizona Diamondbacks agreed to a one-year, $2.75-million deal with free-agent catcher James M...

<p>The Arizona Diamondbacks agreed to a one-year, $2.75-million deal with free-agent catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3118" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3118">James McCann</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/nickpiecoro/status/1991965639595217308">Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic</a>.</p><p>McCann can earn an additional $500,000 in bonuses.</p><p>The 35-year-old veteran backstop appeared in 42 games for the D-Backs last season, authoring a .260/.324/.431 slash line with five homers and 17 RBIs in 137 plate appearances. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>McCann appeared in 40 games - 35 starts - behind the dish and should act as a backup to starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11877">Gabriel Moreno</a>.</p><p>McCann, an All-Star in 2019, has played 12 seasons in the majors for various clubs.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 13: James McCann #8 of the Arizona Diamondbacks runs the bases on his ninth inning home run against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on August 13, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

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D-Backs, McCann agree to 1-year, $2.75M deal

Former New York Mets reliever Adam Ottavino believes manager Carlos Mendoza is responsible for th...

<p>Former New York Mets reliever Adam Ottavino believes manager Carlos Mendoza is responsible for the rash of pitching injuries that plagued the team in 2025.</p><p>"They need to be better than this. This is embarrassing. This is actually pathetic. ... I would've never let this happen if I was on the team last year," Ottavino said while hosting an episode of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sVJjbgkAEE">"Baseball and Coffee."</a></p><p>Ottavino added that Mendoza "has no idea what he's doing" when it comes to bullpen decisions and keeping pitchers healthy, and he stressed that he hopes something changes in the future.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"If they continue down this path, they're gonna be f---ed, because you cannot injure this many dudes every year," Ottavino said. "Hopefully, this is not an actual strategy because it's freakin' pathetic, and it's not player-friendly, and eventually people will catch on.</p><p>The Mets used an MLB-record 46 pitchers during the 2025 season and suffered injuries to numerous players, including five pitchers who remain sidelined after major arm surgeries.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PITCHER</th>
<th>INJURY</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Tylor Megill</td>
<td>Tommy John surgery</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Reed Garrett</td>
<td>Tommy John surgery</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max Kranick*</td>
<td>Flexor tendon surgery</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dedniel Núñez</td>
<td>Tommy John surgery</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Danny Young</td>
<td>Tommy John surgery</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*reportedly non-tendered by Mets on Friday</em></p><p>New York missed the playoffs last campaign and has several pitchers, including All-Star closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a>, entering free agency this offseason.</p><p> </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 31: Kodai Senga #34 of the New York Mets hands the ball to Carlos Mendoza #64 after being taken out of the game against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field on August 31, 2025 in New York City.

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Former Mets reliever blames Mendoza for pitcher injuries

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is uncertain why he's the focus of trade rumors on the heels of w...

<p>Detroit Tigers ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a> is uncertain why he's the focus of trade rumors on the heels of winning back-to-back Cy Young Awards.</p><p>"The way social media is, it's hard not to see things about yourself, especially when it's talking about trades and all of those hypotheticals," Skubal said during an appearance on <a href="https://x.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1991595631727858052">"Foul Territory."</a></p><p>"It's not like I want to be traded, so it's kind of like, why am I in these conversations?"</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Skubal is entering the final season of his current deal with the Tigers before potentially entering free agency. He's been arguably the most dominant pitcher in baseball over the past two campaigns, prompting suggestions that his price tag might be too rich for Detroit. The Tigers, whose payroll was around $160 million last season, reportedly <a href="http://Report:%20Skubal%20rejected%20Tigers'%20offer%20of%20less%20than%20%24100M%20last%20year">offered</a> the left-hander a four-year extension worth less than $100 million in 2024.</p><p>While MLB insider and former general manager Jim Bowden <a href="https://www.si.com/mlb/tigers/onsi/news/insider-reveals-number-tigers-must-reach-extend-ace-tarik-skubal">believes</a> the Tigers need to start extension conversations with Skubal and his agent Scott Boras at $350 million, the southpaw said he "doesn't really know where they come up with these" contract valuations.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"I don't really know where they come up with these numbers."<br><br>Tarik Skubal says there's a lack of truth behind offseason rumors that he's involved in, especially as it relates to his contract. <a href="https://t.co/myzkwfEXUt">pic.twitter.com/myzkwfEXUt</a></p>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1991596984525021516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Skubal won his second Cy Young in 2025 after posting an AL-best 2.21 ERA with 241 strikeouts in 195 1/3 innings for the Tigers. </p><p> </p><p> </p>

CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 02: Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal (29) on the field as the Detroit Tigers celebrate winning the Major League Baseball 2025 American League Wild Card Game 3 between the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians on October 2, 2025, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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Skubal doesn't want to be traded: 'Why am I in these conversations?'

The New York Yankees are interested in bringing back right-handed reliever Devin Williams, and th...

<p>The New York Yankees are interested in bringing back right-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, and the two sides have discussed the possibility of a reunion, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6822236/2025/11/20/mlb-offseason-kyle-tucker-orioles-angels-braves/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon</a>.</p><p>Williams is a popular target for teams on the hunt for bullpen help. He's already been connected to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cincinnati Reds, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets in offseason rumors.</p><p>The 31-year-old had an up-and-down campaign with the Yankees in 2025 after they acquired him in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. He blew four saves and posted the highest ERA of his career but maintained strong strikeout numbers (13.1 K/9) and a solid FIP (2.68).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Williams <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/devin-williams-to-test-free-agency-is-open-to-rejoining-yankees">expressed interest</a> in returning to New York even though he was jeered by Yankees fans at points last season.</p><p>"I kind of got the complete experience," Williams said recently. "I started off bad. They're booing me as I come out of the bullpen. So, obviously, I got the worst of it at the beginning.</p><p>"And then in the end, I think against Toronto, they gave me a standing ovation as I'm coming off the mound. I got the full experience."</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - APRIL 17: Devin Williams #38 of the New York Yankees reacts in the ninth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on April 17, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Report: Yankees, Williams discussed potential reunion

The Baseball Writers' Association of America revealed the 2026 Hall of Fame ballot on Monday, fea...

<p>The Baseball Writers' Association of America revealed the 2026 Hall of Fame ballot on Monday, featuring 12 first-time candidates alongside 15 returnees.</p><p>Making their debut on the ballot are Ryan Braun, Shin-Soo Choo, Edwin Encarnación, Gio González, Alex Gordon, Cole Hamels, Matt Kemp, Howie Kendrick, Nick Markakis, Daniel Murphy, Hunter Pence, and Rick Porcello.</p><p>The new additions join 15 former players returning to the ballot after each received at least 5% of the overall vote in 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Manny Ramirez is on the ballot for his 10th and final year.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>2025 %</th>
<th>TIMES ON BALLOT</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Carlos Beltrán</td>
<td>70.3</td>
<td>4th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andruw Jones</td>
<td>66.2</td>
<td>9th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chase Utley</td>
<td>39.8</td>
<td>3rd</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alex Rodriguez</td>
<td>37.1</td>
<td>5th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Manny Ramirez</td>
<td>34.3</td>
<td>10th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andy Pettitte</td>
<td>27.9</td>
<td>8th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Félix Hernández</td>
<td>20.6</td>
<td>2nd</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bobby Abreu</td>
<td>19.5</td>
<td>7th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jimmy Rollins</td>
<td>18.0</td>
<td>5th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Omar Vizquel</td>
<td>17.8</td>
<td>9th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dustin Pedroia</td>
<td>11.9</td>
<td>2nd</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Buehrle</td>
<td>11.4</td>
<td>6th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Francisco Rodríguez</td>
<td>10.2</td>
<td>4th</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Wright</td>
<td>8.1</td>
<td>3rd</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Torii Hunter</td>
<td>5.1</td>
<td>6th</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Beltran and Jones are the only returning players to receive more than 50% of the BBWAA votes last year. Players who garner votes on 75% of all ballots cast earn election into the Hall of Fame.</p><p>The results of the 82nd Hall of Fame election will be announced Jan. 20.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JULY 28: Ryan Braun speaks during his Walk of Fame ceremony before the game against the Miami Marlins at American Family Field on July 28, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Braun, Encarnación among 12 new additions to 2026 Hall of Fame ballot

The New York Yankees are closing in on a one-year deal with veteran swingman Ryan Yarbrough, sour...

<p>The New York Yankees are closing in on a one-year deal with veteran swingman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5350" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5350">Ryan Yarbrough</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1990447372749750527">FanSided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>Yarbrough will earn $2.5 million in 2026, with the opportunity to receive an additional $250,000 in performance bonuses, according to the <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/1990487327173468468">New York Post's Joel Sherman</a>.</p><p>He appeared in 19 games for the Yankees last season, including eight starts, and posted a 4.36 ERA in 64 innings. He held left-handed hitters to a .576 OPS in 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The southpaw enters his ninth big-league campaign, having spent most of his career in the AL East.</p><p>Yarbrough pitched five seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays and has also played for the Toronto Blue Jays, Kansas City Royals, and Los Angeles Dodgers.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JUNE 01: New York Yankees pitcher Ryan Yarbrough (33) throws a pitch during the MLB game between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 1, 2025 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

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Report: Yankees, Yarbrough agree to 1-year, $2.5M deal

It'll be a big day for boxing fans on Dec. 19, as Jake Paul will fight former heavyweight champio...

<p>It'll be a big day for boxing fans on Dec. 19, as Jake Paul will fight former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in a professional bout at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Netflix announced Monday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yes, it’s real.<br><br>JAKE PAUL vs. ANTHONY JOSHUA. A career-defining pro heavyweight fight. LIVE only on Netflix Friday, December 19. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JakeJoshua?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JakeJoshua</a> <a href="https://t.co/zG4RSqsTxU">pic.twitter.com/zG4RSqsTxU</a></p>— Netflix (@netflix) <a href="https://twitter.com/netflix/status/1990404556329558340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The bout between Paul and Joshua is an official fight under standard boxing rules, according to boxing insider Dan Rafael.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jake Paul v Anthony Joshua is an official fight under normal <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/boxing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#boxing</a> rules. 8 rounds. Three-minute rounds. 10-ounce gloves. Result goes on their record. Official fight. <a href="https://t.co/GCpBizpuIm">https://t.co/GCpBizpuIm</a></p>— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanRafael1/status/1990432331954291148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"This isn't an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day," Paul said in a statement. "A professional heavyweight fight against an elite world champion in his prime.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears, and no one can deny me the opportunity to fight for a world title. To all my haters, this is what you wanted."</p><p>Paul was originally scheduled to take on Gervonta "Tank" Davis in an exhibition on Nov. 14, but the fight was canceled after a civil lawsuit was filed against Davis in Miami-Dade County at the end of October.</p><p>This will be the biggest fight of Paul's career, with the 28-year-old YouTuber turned prizefighter having mostly fought MMA combatants or fighters past their prime since transitioning to boxing.</p><p>Paul defeated Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. by unanimous decision in June in his most recent bout, following a unanimous decision win over a 58-year-old Mike Tyson last November.</p><p>Paul owns a professional record of 12 wins and one loss, with seven knockouts.</p><p>Joshua, an Olympic gold medalist and two-time heavyweight champion, lost his titles to Oleksandr Usyk in September 2021 and hasn't reclaimed any since. He's lost three of his last seven fights, including an IBF title bout against Daniel Dubois in September 2024.</p><p>In his prime, Joshua was considered the top heavyweight in the world, picking up 25 of his 28 career wins by knockout.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

Jake Paul at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture date: Saturday July 19, 2025.

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Paul, Joshua to square off Dec. 19 on Netflix

The Chicago Cubs are looking to upgrade their starting rotation this offseason and have their eye...

<p>The Chicago Cubs are looking to upgrade their starting rotation this offseason and have their eyes on one of the top arms available.</p><p>Chicago has right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9842" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9842">Michael King</a> on its radar and views him as a starter with a lot of upside when healthy, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6806320/2025/11/14/chicago-cubs-2025-offseason-intel-pitching-pursuits/">Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>King made only 15 starts for the San Diego Padres last season while dealing with shoulder and knee ailments, but he's expected to command ample interest after posting a 3.10 ERA in 247 innings over the past two campaigns.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Cubs could use another arm in the rotation after southpaw <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17236">Shota Imanaga</a> became a free agent earlier this month when Chicago rejected an option in his contract. Additionally, left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10586">Justin Steele</a> is recovering from elbow ligament surgery.</p><p>The Padres offered King a one-year, $22.025-million qualifying offer. He is expected to decline it before the Nov. 18 deadline and join free agency in the process.</p><p>Chicago is showing a willingness to sign players attached to qualifying offers this offseason, sources told Sharma and Mooney.</p>

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 01: Michael King #34 of the San Diego Padres throws a pitch against the Atlanta Braves during the second inning in Game One of the Wild Card Series at Petco Park on October 01, 2024 in San Diego, California.

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Report: Cubs have King on radar to improve rotation

Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow is interested in making a big addition to the...

<p>Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow is interested in making a big addition to the rotation this offseason.</p><p>"I don't think we're going to spend a ton of time trying to add a No. 4, a No. 5 starter," Breslow said at the GM meetings Monday, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/11/red-sox-looking-for-front-of-a-rotation-starter-via-trade-or-free-agency.html">MassLive's Christopher Smith</a>.</p><p>The Red Sox employed one of the top starters in baseball last season in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>. The left-hander finished the campaign with 255 strikeouts in 205 1/3 innings and is a finalist for the AL Cy Young.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4272">Lucas Giolito</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> were the only Red Sox pitchers other than Crochet to make at least 12 starts last season. Buehler didn't finish the year with the Red Sox, and Giolito is a free agent after declining his contract option.</p><p>Breslow said he feels good about Boston's starting depth, but believes an upgrade near the top of the rotation is necessary. He said he'll consider free agency and trades.</p><p>"Particularly someone that we feel like can pitch alongside or slot in behind Garrett and start a playoff game for us," Breslow said. </p><p>"Last season, Bello played that role for a majority of the season. Lucas played that role for a majority of the season. Because of the depth that we've built up over the last couple of years, we feel pretty good about just overall starting pitching. Kind of maybe Nos. three-ish through 10-ish."</p><p>The Red Sox were connected to Minnesota Twins right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12305" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12305">Joe Ryan</a> at last season's trade deadline. There are also a number of high-end starters available in free agency such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/9813" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/9813">Ranger Suárez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9842" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9842">Michael King</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a>.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - AUGUST 19: Chief Baseball Officer of the Boston Red Sox Craig Breslow looks on before a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park on August 19, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Breslow: Red Sox eyeing 'front of a rotation' starter this offseason

Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin was named 2025 National League Rookie of the Year on Monday ...

<p>Atlanta Braves catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15587" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15587">Drake Baldwin</a> was named 2025 National League Rookie of the Year on Monday after receiving 21 first-place votes from members of the BBWAA.</p><p>Chicago Cubs right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19127" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19127">Cade Horton</a> finished second, while Milwaukee Brewers infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14512" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14512">Caleb Durbin</a> came in third.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="NL Rookie of the Year" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CrV5D" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CrV5D/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="222" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The 24-year-old Baldwin finished his debut campaign with 19 home runs, 80 RBIs, and an .810 OPS. He led qualified NL rookies in RBIs and fWAR.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Looking back at the start of the year, I never really thought I was going to be in this position," Baldwin told MLB Network. "Being able to get this is one of the coolest things I've ever had happen."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">2005 NL ROY Ryan Howard announces Drake Baldwin as the 2025 National League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year! <a href="https://t.co/wVbUQjmT9s">pic.twitter.com/wVbUQjmT9s</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1988048353800974769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Baldwin is the fifth Braves players to win Rookie of the Year since 2000, joining Rafael Furcal (2000), Craig Kimbrel (2011), Ronald Acuña Jr. (2018), and Michael Harris II (2022).</p><p>Baldwin also joins Earl Williams (1971) as the only catchers in Braves history to receive the honor. </p><p> </p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - AUGUST 07: Drake Baldwin #30 of the Atlanta Braves hits a solo homer in the second inning against the Miami Marlins at Truist Park on August 07, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Braves' Baldwin wins NL Rookie of the Year

San Diego Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. and Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. we...

<p>San Diego Padres outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8286" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8286">Fernando Tatis Jr.</a> and Kansas City Royals shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12336" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12336">Bobby Witt Jr.</a> were selected as the winners of the Platinum Glove for their respective leagues on Friday.</p><p>This is the second time Tatis has won the Platinum Glove after he also took it home in 2023. </p><p>The 26-year-old finished the 2025 campaign with 15 defensive runs saved. He's in the 99th percentile in arm strength, 94th percentile in range, and 82nd percentile in arm value, according to <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/fernando-tatis-jr-665487?stats=statcast-r-hitting-mlb">Baseball Savant</a>. The three-time All-Star also made just three errors in 1,299 innings as San Diego's right fielder.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Witt earned his first Platinum Glove after finishing the 2025 campaign with 24 outs above average and posting a fielding run value in the 99th percentile.</p><p>His .983 fielding percentage in 1,340 innings at shortstop was also the best mark of his career. </p><p> </p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 09: Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (7) fields a ground ball in the third inning of game 3 of the ALDS between the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals on October 9, 2024 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Tatis, Witt awarded Platinum Gloves

Major League Baseball revealed the 2025 American League Silver Slugger winners Friday, one day af...

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 07: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees hits a three-run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fourth inning in game three of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 07, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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2025 Silver Sluggers: Judge wins for 5th time, D-Backs claim 3 awards

With the offseason underway, we rank the top 20 free-agent position players (ages at start of 202...

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Top 20 MLB free-agent position players

New York Mets right-hander Edwin Díaz opted out of his contract with the team to become a free ag...

<p>New York Mets right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> opted out of his contract with the team to become a free agent.</p><p>Díaz, 31, had two years and a club option left on the five-year, $102-million deal he signed with the Mets in 2022.</p><p>The hard-throwing closer was terrific for the Mets last season, posting a 1.63 ERA and saving 28 games with a 13.3 K/9 in 66 1/3 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Díaz has been one of baseball's elite closers throughout his career, saving 253 games and striking out 839 in 520 appearances for the Mets and Seattle Mariners. </p><p>San Diego Padres closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13691" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13691">Robert Suarez</a> also opted out of his deal Monday, making him a free agent as well.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Edwin Díaz #39 of the New York Mets celebrate their 7-3 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers at the end of the ninth inning during Game Two of the Championship Series at Dodger Stadium on October 14, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Díaz becomes free agent after opting out of Mets deal

San Diego Padres right-hander Robert Suarez has opted out of his deal with the club to become a f...

<p>San Diego Padres right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13691" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13691">Robert Suarez</a> has opted out of his deal with the club to become a free agent.</p><p>The 34-year-old had two years and $16 million remaining on a five-year, $46-million contract he signed with San Diego in 2022.</p><p>Suarez led the National League with 40 saves last season while authoring a 2.97 ERA and striking out 75 in 69 2/3 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Venezuela native debuted for the Padres in 2022 as a 31-year-old after pitching in Mexico and Japan earlier in his career.</p><p>He's saved 77 games and posted a 3.36 FIP and 9.4 K/9 in 206 big-league games, all with the Padres.</p><p>Suarez becomes one of the top relief arms available this offseason along with fellow closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a>, who reportedly opted out of his deal with the New York Mets on Monday.</p>

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 16: Robert Suarez #75 of the San Diego Padres prepares to pitch against the Baltimore Orioles during the eighth inning at PETCO Park on August 16, 2023 in San Diego, California.

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Padres closer Suarez opts out of deal to join free agency

Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens are among a group of eight players featured on the contemporary bas...

<p>Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens are among a group of eight players featured on the contemporary baseball era ballot revealed by the National Baseball Hall of Fame on Monday.</p><p>Joining Bonds and Clemens are Carlos Delgado, Jeff Kent, Don Mattingly, Dale Murphy, Gary Sheffield, and Fernando Valenzuela.</p><p>Bonds (66%) and Clemens (65.2%) fell short of Hall of Fall induction during their 10th and final appearances on the BBWAA ballot in 2022.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A 16-person committee will meet Dec. 7 during baseball's winter meetings to discuss potential election into the Hall of Fame for players included on the ballot. A 75% vote is necessary for election.</p><p>The eight players on the contemporary era ballot were selected by the BBWAA-appointed historical overview committee from a list of eligible candidates who had significant impact on the game of baseball since 1980.</p><p>The results of the contemporary era ballot vote will be announced Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. ET.</p>

Barry Bonds claps after reaching second base on a 3rd inning double. ; GIANTS V. CUBS at ATT&T PARK. ; Photo: Mark Costantini / S.F. Chronicle ; ; ; Ran on: 12-01-2007 ; ; Ran on: 12-01-2007

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Bonds, Clemens among 8 players on contemporary era HOF ballot

Toronto Blue Jays infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa provided some insight on why he was unable to scor...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4693" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4693">Isiah Kiner-Falefa</a> provided some insight on why he was unable to score the game-winning run against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the ninth inning of Saturday's Game 7 loss.</p><p>Kiner-Falefa was thrown out at the plate by Dodgers second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a>, who had tied the game in the top half of the inning with a home run. Rojas briefly bobbled the ball before narrowly making the play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MIGGY AND ANDY SEND US TO EXTRAS! <a href="https://t.co/BxwqJ9VcS6">pic.twitter.com/BxwqJ9VcS6</a></p>— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dodgers/status/1984828932256895023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"They told us to stay close to the base," Kiner-Falefa said, according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1984876092331573336">Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"They don't want us to get doubled off in that situation with a hard line drive."</p><p>Kiner-Falefa was inches from scoring a run that would've given the Blue Jays their first World Series title in 32 years. The veteran infielder, pinch-running for the hobbled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, was criticized because of the short lead he took at third base before attempting to score.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Isiah Kiner-Falefa 😞 <a href="https://t.co/Od04mp2BPR">pic.twitter.com/Od04mp2BPR</a></p>— 🇺🇲*La Hiena*Conservadora*🇵🇷 (@GeorgeBader16) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeBader16/status/1984998889053728793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"The lead is small. In that situation, you can't get doubled off. I got the best secondary I could from that spot and it didn't work out," Kiner-Falefa said.</p><p>The 30-year-old told Nicholson-Smith after the game that he was receiving hateful messages, including a threat to break his legs.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14202">Addison Barger</a> was memorably doubled off at second base after an aggressive lead on a low fly ball in Friday's Game 6 to give the Dodgers a series-tying win.</p>

Toronto, Ontario, Saturday, November 1, 2025 - Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) catches the ball for the out as Toronto Blue Jays' Isiah Kiner-Falefa slide into home for a force out during the ninth inning of Game seven of the 121st World Series between the LA Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

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Jays' Kiner-Falefa explains not scoring game-winner after receiving threats

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Bryan Mcwilliam

News Editor

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