Houston Astros third baseman Carlos Correa won't participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic a...

<p>Houston Astros third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992">Carlos Correa</a> won't participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after failing to receive insurance on his major-league contract, he told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7001980/2026/01/27/astros-carlos-correa-missing-world-baseball-classic-insurance/">The Athletic's Chandler Rome</a> on Tuesday.</p><p>Correa was prepared to suit up for Puerto Rico but said he risked forfeiting regular-season salary if he missed any games due to injuries sustained at the event.</p><p>"I'm definitely upset because I've been preparing really hard this offseason to get better this year and be ready early so I can be ready for the WBC," Correa told Rome.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I also understand the business side of things and that's too big of a risk to take, to play with no insurance."</p><p>Correa joins Astros teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a> in missing the event. Altuve won't play for Venezuela due to insurance issues, a source told Rome. <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/jose-altuve-not-participating-2026-world-baseball-classic">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a> reported Monday that Altuve was opting out at the Astros' request, citing a source.</p><p>Altuve had expressed interest in joining Venezuela's roster, which is being managed by Astros bench coach Omar López.</p><p>"I signed the paper that I'm willing to go and play like I did for in the last two WBCs," Altuve said Saturday, according to Rome. "It's always an honor to represent my country. I played in the last one and the one before and I'm trying to do it in this one. I don't know what's going on behind the scenes, but it seems like this year it's not up to me."</p><p>Astros owner Jim Crane is in charge of deciding on WBC participation for multiple players in the organization, sources told Rome. Crane told Correa the club had too many injuries last season and he wanted the three-time All-Star "to focus on the team and spring training" instead of the WBC, the third baseman said.</p><p>Correa and Altuve have a history of injuries, with the latter missing 43 MLB games in 2023 after fracturing his right thumb on a hit-by-pitch at the WBC.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 20: Jose Altuve #27 of the Houston Astros and Carlos Correa #1 take the field together in the fourth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Daikin Park on September 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34271413/related

Correa won't participate in WBC; Altuve reportedly missing event

Three-time American League MVP Aaron Judge is the cover athlete for MLB The Show 2026.   3X AL MV...

<p>Three-time American League MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> is the cover athlete for MLB The Show 2026.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">3X AL MVP ✅ ️2X <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MLBTheShow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MLBTheShow</a> cover athlete ✅ <br>Welcome back, Aaron Judge! <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJudge44?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheJudge44</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yankees</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees_Beisbol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Yankees_Beisbol</a> <a href="https://t.co/2l0kOAt7Nu">pic.twitter.com/2l0kOAt7Nu</a></p>— MLB The Show (@MLBTheShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBTheShow/status/2016194495998521619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The New York Yankees outfielder and captain will appear on the cover for the second time after doing so in 2018. Hall of Fame catcher Joe Mauer is the only other player to grace the cover twice.</p><p>Judge is widely considered one of the greatest players in Major League Baseball after putting together a historical career during his 10 big-league seasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Since debuting in 2016, Judge owns a .294/.413/.615 slash line with 368 homers. The former AL Rookie of the Year has won a batting title and appeared in seven All-Star Games. He also became a Home Run Derby champion during the 2017 event.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34280075/related

Judge graces cover of MLB The Show for 2nd time 

Los Angeles Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts wants to manage Team USA at the 2028 Olympics in L.A. if...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts wants to manage Team USA at the 2028 Olympics in L.A. if Major League Baseball allows its players to participate.</p><p>"I want to manage the Olympic team," Roberts told <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/01/26/sports/dodgers-dave-roberts-wants-to-coach-team-usa-at-2028-olympics/">Dylan Hernandez of the California Post</a>. "That's what I want to do. In L.A., I want to manage that team."</p><p>The 53-year-old manager, whose father spent three decades in the military, believes he's the perfect candidate for multiple reasons.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I went to school here. I manage the Dodgers," he said. "It's a no-brainer."</p><p>The 2028 Games wouldn't be Roberts' first time representing the United States. He was part of the U.S. squad that finished second at the 1999 Pan American Games.</p><p>MLB players typically don't suit up for Olympic competition, but some of them, such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>, have expressed interest in participating in Los Angeles.</p><p>MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has said that he's <a href="https://www.thescore.com/news/3378183/related">increasingly confident</a> big-leaguers will participate in the event.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - OCTOBER 13: Manager Dave Roberts #30 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on during warm ups prior to Game One of the National League Championship Series presented by Booking.com between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on Monday, October 13, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34278843/related

Dodgers' Roberts wants to manage U.S. at 2028 Olympics

The San Francisco Giants agreed to a two-year contract with outfielder Harrison Bader, a source t...

<p>The San Francisco Giants agreed to a two-year contract with outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5438" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5438">Harrison Bader</a>, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2015851279193440586">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Bader's deal is worth $20.5 million and can reach $21 million through incentives, according to the <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2015858503714267466">New York Post's Jon Heyman</a>.</p><p>The outfielder said he's excited to join the Giants, calling them a "perfect fit" for him during an appearance on <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2015947763276505593">"The Show" with Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bader hit .277/.347/.449 with 17 home runs, 54 RBIs, and 11 steals in 146 games between the Minnesota Twins and Philadelphia Phillies last season. His .824 OPS in 50 contests with the Phillies marked a career best.</p><p>The 31-year-old is also a terrific defender, accumulating 51 defensive runs saved in center field throughout his career. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Giants plan to utilize Harrison Bader primarily in center field, source says.<br><br>Jung Hoo Lee, the Giants' primary CF last year, has yet to play a regular-season <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLB</a> game in a corner spot. However, Lee was the Kiwoom Heroes' everyday RF in 2020. <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBNetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLBNetwork</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBKOR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLBKOR</a></p>— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/jonmorosi/status/2015880054870360220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He should help improve a Giants outfield that ranked near the bottom of the majors in defensive runs saved and outs above average in 2025.</p><p><strong>Giants outfielders in 2025</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>DRS</th>
<th>OAA</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jung Hoo Lee</td>
<td>-18</td>
<td>-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Heliot Ramos</td>
<td>-6</td>
<td>-9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drew Gilbert</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Giants pivoted to Bader after reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3462805" href="https://thescore.com/news/3462805">failing to land</a> infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12501" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12501">CJ Abrams</a> from the Washington Nationals in a trade.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 21: Harrison Bader #2 of the Philadelphia Phillies walks off the field after hitting a li out during the fifth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on September 21, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Diamondbacks defeated the Phillies 9-2.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34271449/related

Giants, Bader agree to reported 2-year, $20.5M deal

Washington Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni strongly rejected the notion th...

<p>Washington Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni strongly rejected the notion that his team is actively trying to move shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12501" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12501">CJ Abrams</a> as part of the team's rebuild.</p><p>The San Francisco Giants apparently made an aggressive push to acquire Washington's All-Star shortstop and then shift him to second base, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6994852/2026/01/23/sf-giants-cj-abrams-trade-talks-josuar-gonzalez/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=mlbtw&amp;source=mlbtw">The Athletic's Andrew Baggarly</a>. However, the sides couldn't get a deal done.</p><p>"We'll field calls. I'll give you the cliche response that probably every GM in every sport gives, which is we'd be dumb not to listen, right? But it's not something like we're calling other teams and looking to trade CJ," Toboni told <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Orc9hSfPWrI">106.7 The Fan's Grant &amp; Danny</a> when asked whether he's had discussions with rival executives about Abrams. "And part of the reason why I say that is because I think maybe more so than anyone on our roster, our staff is excited to get their hands on CJ and really work with him from a developmental standpoint."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toboni added: "While we'll always listen, we're gonna take it day-by-day and see what comes our way. And if there's something that makes sense, hey, we'll talk about it. But it hasn't even come close at this point in time."</p><p>When asked if he sees Abrams playing shortstop for the Nationals, Toboni replied: "I do, yes."</p><p>Even before the team <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3461908" href="https://thescore.com/news/3461908">dealt</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12506" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12506">MacKenzie Gore</a> to Texas for five prospects, Abrams was seen as a potential trade piece for the rebuilding Nationals. The 25-year-old is one season removed from making the All-Star team and has three years of team control (including 2026) remaining.</p><p>San Francisco was apparently willing to part with its No. 2 prospect, shortstop Josuar Gonzalez, in a deal for Abrams, according to Baggarly. Other Giants prospects reportedly discussed with Washington included left-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18888" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18888">Carson Whisenhunt</a> and Jacob Bresnahan, outfielder Bo Davidson, and shortstop Jhonny Level.</p><p>Abrams, who's played 13 games at second in the majors, would've joined a strong Giants infield featuring first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a>, shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4784" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4784">Willy Adames</a>, and third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5380" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5380">Matt Chapman</a>.</p><p>Instead, he'll remain a cornerstone of the Nationals for the foreseeable future. Abrams, who put up a .748 OPS with 19 homers in 144 games last season, will form one half of a rotating double-play combo with both <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9620" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9620">Luis García Jr.</a>, whom Toboni said will split time between first and second, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12677" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12677">Nasim Nuñez</a> in 2026.</p><p>The Giants, meanwhile, must now look for a second baseman elsewhere. They <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3454466" href="https://thescore.com/news/3454466">reportedly</a> held conversations with the St. Louis Cardinals about <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13675" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13675">Brendan Donovan</a> and spoke to the Chicago Cubs about <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10637">Nico Hoerner</a> earlier this winter. San Francisco was also apparently involved in trade talks with the Miami Marlins about starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9569">Edward Cabrera</a> before he was dealt to the Cubs, according to Baggarly.</p><p>Despite being linked to multiple top position players, San Francisco has done little this winter to improve its position player group. Potential backup catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15546" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15546">Daniel Susac</a>, a Rule 5 Draft selection in December, is the only bat whom the team has added since the offseason began.</p><p>The Giants' new plan is to try and find a bat in free agency, where they're targeting veteran outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5438" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5438">Harrison Bader</a>, Baggarly reports.</p><p> </p>

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 26: CJ Abrams #5 of the Washington Nationals rounds the bases after hitting a home run against the Chicago White Sox at Nationals Park on September 26, 2025 in Washington, DC.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34235008/related

Nats' Toboni denies shopping Abrams amid Giants' reported pursuit

Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin was named the No. 1 prospect in baseball by MLB Pipel...

<p>Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a> was named the No. 1 prospect in baseball by <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/2026/top100/">MLB Pipeline</a> on Friday.</p><p>Griffin topped the list after an impressive 2025 season where he slashed .333/.415/.527 with 21 home runs, 94 RBIs, and 65 steals across three minor-league levels.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hJMphX5CceU?si=3WhyEjVuzQJG1HPz" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>The Mississippi native was selected ninth overall by the Pirates in the 2024 MLB Draft.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>MLB Pipeline's top five prospects for 2026 are all shortstops.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>RANK</th>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>TEAM</th>
<th>POS.</th>
<th>AGE</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Konnor Griffin</td>
<td>Pirates</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Kevin McGonigle</td>
<td>Tigers</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Jesús Made</td>
<td>Brewers</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td> Leo De Vries</td>
<td>Athletics</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>JJ Wetherholt</td>
<td>Cardinals</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 12: Konnor Griffin #22 of the Pittsburgh Pirates looks on during batting practice prior to the 2025 MLB All-Star Futures Game at Truist Park on Saturday, July 12, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34237525/related

Pirates' Konnor Griffin named MLB's top prospect

As the market for free agents continues to thin out ahead of spring training, here's an early loo...

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34229837/related

Early ranking of next winter's top 20 MLB free agents

The Washington Nationals traded starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers for five pro...

<p>The Washington Nationals traded starting pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12506" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12506">MacKenzie Gore</a> to the Texas Rangers for five prospects, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>The Nationals received shortstop Gavin Fien, right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18623" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18623">Alejandro Rosario</a>, first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17285" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17285">Abimelec Ortiz</a>, infielder Devin Fitz-Gerald, and outfielder Yeremy Cabrera.</p><p>"If you asked me a week ago, was this going to happen? I probably would have said no," Nationals president of baseball operations Paul Toboni said, according to <a href="https://x.com/andrewcgolden/status/2014479042372673560">The Washington Post's Andrew Golden</a>. "But over the course of the last week, just momentum built and finally got to a spot where it made sense for us."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gore posted a 4.17 ERA, 3.74 FIP and 185 strikeouts over 159 2/3 innings last year en route to earning his first All-Star selection. The southpaw, who turns 27 in February, has two years of club control left.</p><p>"We were going to hold a really high bar because we think the world of MacKenzie as a player," Toboni added, according to <a href="https://x.com/Bobby_Blanco/status/2014479296924905539">MASN's Bobby Blanco</a>. </p><p>Gore provides first-year Rangers manager Skip Schumaker with rotation depth behind ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4311" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4311">Jacob deGrom</a> and veteran right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2345" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2345">Nathan Eovaldi</a>.</p><p><strong>Rangers' 2026 projected rotation</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PITCHER</th>
<th>THROWS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jacob deGrom</td>
<td>Right</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Eovaldi</td>
<td>Right</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MacKenzie Gore</td>
<td>Left</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jack Leiter</td>
<td>Right</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jacob Latz</td>
<td>Left</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Fien and Rosario are the two biggest names joining the Nationals. Fien was the Rangers' No. 2 prospect behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17566">Sebastian Walcott</a>, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/rangers/">MLB Pipeline</a>. Rosario was Texas' sixth-ranked prospect and the team's No. 4 pitcher.</p><p>Fitz-Gerald (12th), Cabrera (16th), and Ortiz (18th) were all ranked among the Rangers' top 30 prospects.</p><p>"We do our best to know our players. but every single guy we gave up, we believe in," Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6993006/2026/01/22/mackenzie-gore-rangers-nationals-max-scherzer/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon</a>. </p><p>"We gave up good players, I can tell you that. But we gave them up because they were farther from the big leagues. They were just not going to help us this year."</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 22: MacKenzie Gore #1 of the Washington Nationals pitches in the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on September 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34221487/related

Rangers acquire Gore from Nationals for 5 prospects

Former Blue Jays player Whit Merrifield didn't expect ex-teammate Bo Bichette to return to Toront...

<p>Former Blue Jays player Whit Merrifield didn't expect ex-teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> to return to Toronto this offseason because he believes the two sides had a strained relationship.</p><p>"I know for a fact Bo loves Toronto, loves the Jays, loves the city, loves the fans there. I also know that there was some stuff along the way that happened with Bo and the coaching staff," Merrifield said on his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXdAxhE5QcU">6ix inning stretch</a> podcast. </p><p>"There was some stuff that went on with Bo and the Jays as far as the front office and coaching staff that maybe tainted that relationship a little bit. I don't know how negotiations went, don't know how involved Toronto was in bringing Bo back. I know they probably tried a little bit for the city's sake, but I think it was probably inevitable a little bit that they ended up parting ways."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bichette signed a three-year, $126-million deal with the New York Mets last week after spending all seven of his big-league seasons in Toronto. </p><p>The infielder expressed a desire to remain in Toronto, but said at his introductory press conference with the Mets on Wednesday that signing with New York was a decision he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3461119" href="https://thescore.com/news/3461119">needed to make</a>.</p><p>"I wasn't really surprised he didn't go back to Toronto. I really would have been more surprised if he would have been back in Toronto just from some of the stuff that happened along the way" said Merrifield, who competed alongside Bichette on the Blue Jays in 2022 and 2023.</p><p>"It's not that I think that they ended on bad terms, but I just think it was probably best for both parties that he ended up somewhere else."</p><p> </p>

TORONTO, ON - AUGUST 12: (L-R) Matt Chapman #26, Whit Merrifield #1 and Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays look on during a break in play against the Cleveland Guardians in the eighth inning of their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on August 12, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34224196/related

Merrifield: Blue Jays, Bichette had 'tainted' relationship

Pacific Life Insurance Company on Thursday asked a federal court to dismiss the $8.5-million laws...

<p>Pacific Life Insurance Company on Thursday asked a federal court to dismiss the $8.5-million lawsuit filed by NASCAR champion Kyle Busch and his wife over policies the Buschs claim were sold to them under false and negligent representations as tax-free income for retirement.</p><p>The filing in the Western District of North Carolina — the same court that just heard the Michael Jordan-led antitrust suit against NASCAR — alleges the Buschs purchased five separate Indexed Universal Life policies between 2018 and 2022 to provide more than $90 million in insurance protection for the two-time NASCAR champion.</p><p>The IUL policies were intended to provide immediate death benefit protection and "the opportunity to accumulate cash values when the policies are held for the long term."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pacific Life claims Busch failed to fully fund the policies, let some lapse and surrendered the others. Busch has claimed he is out $10.4 million and filed suit in October alleging Pacific Life failed to reveal the true risks of the policies.</p><p>Pacific Life countered in its request to have the suit dismissed that both Buschs signed multiple documents acknowledging they understood the policies, including one that indicated the couple would pay planned premiums and hold the policies over 30 years through age 70 and beyond.</p><p>"Instead of keeping the policies long enough to capitalize on their growth potential, Plaintiffs failed to timely pay planned premiums, failed to monitor allocation of their policy values between indexed and fixed accounts and surrendered the policies or allowed them to lapse," Pacific Life wrote in the filing. "Rather than accept responsibility for their own decisions, Plaintiffs now attempt to blame their negative outcome on the IUL product."</p><p>An IUL is a combination life insurance policy that provides a death benefit with a cash value component. The cash value growth is tied to a stock market index, supposedly with built-in protections against market downturns.</p><p>When he filed the suit last year, Busch said he was told that if he paid $1 million for five years, he would be able to take out $800,000 a year once he turned 52. Busch claims when he received a sixth premium notice he began asking questions and discovered almost all of his money was gone.</p><p>Pacific Life has countered that the Buschs acknowledged understanding the policies, but also that his claims for breach of fiduciary and negligent misrepresentation come seven years after he began purchasing the policies and are therefore outside the three-year statute of limitations.</p><p>"A plaintiff cannot avoid the statute of limitations by remaining 'willfully blind': A man should not be allowed to close his eyes to the facts readily observable by ordinary attention, and maintain for his own advantage the position of ignorance," Pacific Life wrote. "Such a principle would enable a careless man, and by reason of his carelessness, to extend his right to recover for an indefinite length of time."</p><p>Pacific Life also maintains that all of the Buschs claims on misrepresentation are false due to the "express, repeated disclosures" they signed. Additionally, all five policies come with a cover letter that in bold capitalized letters says “READ YOUR POLICY CAREFULLY” and offered a 20-day cancelation window in which premiums would be refunded.</p><p>Both Buschs signed a form that certified they had received the policies and understood they must carefully review them, Pacific Life said.</p><p>The Buschs also named agent Rodney A. Smith in their lawsuit for steering the Buschs into an unsustainable, high-risk product, along with charging an up-front 35% commission they were unaware of.</p><p>___</p><p>AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a></p>

AVONDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 01: Kyle Busch (#8 Richard Childress Racing Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen Chevrolet) looks on before qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Championship on November 1, 2025 at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34222140/related

Pacific Life seeks to dismiss Kyle Busch's $8.5M lawsuit

Bo Bichette was introduced as the newest member of the New York Mets on Wednesday, but there was ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> was introduced as the newest member of the New York Mets on Wednesday, but there was a chance he could have re-signed with the Toronto Blue Jays had things gone differently.</p><p>"Me and the Blue Jays were in touch all offseason," Bichette told <a href="https://x.com/Sportsnet/status/2014049560134316420">Shi Davidi of Sportsnet</a>. "They showed interest, but at the end of the day, it just became clear for me that this was the decision that I needed to make."</p><p>Bichette signed a three-year, $126-million deal to play third base for the Mets after publicly expressing a desire to remain with the Blue Jays. The 27-year-old, who spent the first seven years of his big-league career in Toronto, said negotiations with the Jays ultimately "didn't pan out."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The infielder was reportedly seeking a $300-million deal in free agency and turned down a seven-year, $200-million offer from the Philadelphia Phillies. The Blue Jays weren't reported to have made Bichette an offer in that range this offseason. Instead, they spent $353 million to improve their rotation, bullpen, and lineup depth by adding <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:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5041" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5041">Tyler Rogers</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20140" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20140">Kazuma Okamoto</a> and re-signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a>.</p><p>Bichette had previously said his "ultimate goal" was to play his entire career with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr</a>. and win a championship with the Jays. They came through Toronto's minor-league system together and both made their MLB debuts in 2019.</p><p>"Vladdy is my brother for life. A friend for life. Will always love him. Value our friendship," Bichette said.</p><p>Bichette also thanked Blue Jays fans for their support throughout his career, specifically mentioning his first at-bat in the World Series when he was returning from a knee injury.</p><p>"Thank you for all of the support. You guys mean a lot to me. Toronto will always be my heart, and I guess I'll see you guys in June," he said.</p><p> </p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 21: Bo Bichette #19 and Carlos Mendoza of the New York Mets pose for a photo during an introductory press conference after signing a contract with the New York Mets at Citi Field on January 21, 2026 in the Queens borough of New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34208231/related

Bichette: Blue Jays were in touch all offseason, but deal didn't pan out

Cody Bellinger is returning to the Bronx.  The New York Yankees agreed to a five-year, $162.5-mil...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> is returning to the Bronx.</p><p>The New York Yankees agreed to a five-year, $162.5-million deal with the outfielder, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2014040364198351003?s=20">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>The contract includes a $20-million signing bonus, full no-trade clause, and opt-outs following the second and third seasons, Passan reports.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>There's no deferred money, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2014042295381696711">MLB.com's Mark Feinsand</a>.</p><p>Bellinger was the top position player remaining in free agency after putting together a terrific 2025 campaign for the Yankees. He slashed .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs, 98 RBIs, and 13 steals in 152 games.</p><p>The 30-year-old also provided value on the other side of the ball, accruing 12 defensive runs saved in the outfield and ranking in the 91st percentile in arm value and 93rd percentile in range, according to <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/cody-bellinger-641355?stats=statcast-r-hitting-mlb">Baseball Savant</a>.</p><p>Bellinger's camp was involved in lengthy contract negotiations with the Yankees after both sides appeared to be in favor of a reunion this winter. </p><p>The Yankees reportedly reopened talks with Bellinger last week. The 30-year-old apparently rejected an initial five-year, $155-million offer while clubs including the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and Toronto Blue Jays reportedly showed interest in him.</p><p>With Bellinger, the Yankees will enter 2026 with a strong lineup that also features <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a>, and reigning AL MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a>.</p><p><strong>Yankees' projected 2026 lineup</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ORDER</th>
<th>POSITION</th>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>BATS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>CF</td>
<td>Trent Grisham</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>RF</td>
<td>Aaron Judge</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>LF</td>
<td>Cody Bellinger</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>1B</td>
<td>Ben Rice</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>DH</td>
<td>Giancarlo Stanton</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>2B</td>
<td>Jazz Chisholm Jr.</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>3B</td>
<td>Ryan McMahon</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>José Caballero</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>Austin Wells</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>New York was eliminated in the 2025 American League Division Series by the Toronto Blue Jays after leading baseball in runs scored during the regular season.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 11: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees celebrates his fifth inning two run home run against the Chicago Cubs at Yankee Stadium on July 11, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34207314/related

Report: Yankees re-sign Bellinger to 5-year, $162.5M deal

The New York Mets' heaviest offseason lifting might be over.  New York isn't expected to make ano...

<p>The New York Mets' heaviest offseason lifting might be over.</p><p>New York isn't expected to make another big-dollar acquisition after signing infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> and trading for outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6988891/2026/01/21/mets-offseason-luis-robert-free-agency/">The Athletic's Will Sammon</a>.</p><p>The development presumably takes the Mets out of the running for free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a>, whom they were reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3458825" href="https://thescore.com/news/3458825">considering</a> on a short-term deal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>New York is still expected to pursue starting pitching help, which the team is more likely to acquire in a trade rather than free agency, sources told Sammon. The Mets are reportedly in contact with the Milwaukee Brewers about ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a>.</p><p>If a Peralta trade can't be worked out, the Mets could revisit the free-agent market for a mid-tier starter, such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3165" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/3165">Jose Quintana</a>, Sammon adds. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a> remains the top starter available in free agency.</p><p>The Mets have been actively reshaping their roster this offseason after missing the playoffs in 2025. </p><p>In addition to Bichette and Robert, they've added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5394" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5394">Luke Weaver</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> this winter while subtracting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4912" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4912">Jeff McNeil</a> from the club.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 01: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Yankee Stadium on April 1, 2025 in New York, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34207230/related

Report: Mets unlikely to make big-dollar acquisition after Robert trade

The Los Angeles Dodgers might not be done after signing outfielder Kyle Tucker.  Los Angeles rema...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers might not be done after signing outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>.</p><p>Los Angeles remains interested in acquiring Milwaukee Brewers ace right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a>, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6983535/2026/01/20/dodgers-freddy-peralta-trade-possibility/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Katie Woo</a>.</p><p>The Dodgers' rotation's injury issues in 2025 make a Peralta trade worth exploring, Woo adds. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a> was the only Dodgers starter who didn't spend time on the injured list last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Dodgers' projected 2026 rotation</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PITCHER</th>
<th>THROWS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Yoshinobu Yamamoto</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Blake Snell</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tyler Glasnow</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shohei Ohtani</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Emmet Sheehan</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Roki Sasaki</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Landing Peralta would require a significant trade package, with the Brewers reportedly desiring a major-league ready replacement for him in a deal.</p><p>Peralta, a two-time All-Star, is heading into his final season before free agency and is owed just $8 million for 2026. The 29-year-old is coming off his finest campaign, having finished fifth in National League Cy Young voting thanks to a 2.70 ERA and 204 strikeouts in 33 starts.</p><p> </p>

SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 22: Freddy Peralta #51 of the Milwaukee Brewers pitches during the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on Monday, September 22, 2025 in San Diego, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34193880/related

Report: Dodgers still pursuing Peralta after adding Tucker

Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski is disappointed his team d...

<p>Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski is disappointed his team didn't sign infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> after he felt a deal was about to come to fruition.</p><p>"I can't say that we ever thought it was done," Dombrowski told reporters Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6986089/2026/01/20/phillies-lose-bo-bichette-mets-gut-punch/">The Athletic's Matt Gelb</a>. “We thought we were very close to having a deal done. We thought it was going to happen. But it wasn't done."</p><p>Dombrowski added losing Bichette to the division rival New York Mets was "a gut punch," but the Phillies needed to "move forward."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bichette turned down a seven-year, $200-million deal from the Phillies, MLB.com's Todd Zolecki reported on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDY49CEbhfw&amp;t=1s">"The Phillies Show"</a> on Saturday. Instead, Bichette joined the Mets on a three-year, $126-million deal with opt-outs after each of the first two seasons.</p><p>"The word 'livid' was used in terms of the reaction to the news that Bo did not end up coming to the Phillies and went to the Mets," Zolecki said.</p><p>"It's kind of a 'rug pulled out from under them' situation."</p><p>Bichette would have added another potent bat to the Phillies' lineup alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4761" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4761">Kyle Schwarber</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4814" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4814">Trea Turner</a>, and the recently re-signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3087" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3087">J.T. Realmuto</a>. The 27-year-old infielder owns a career .806 OPS and ranks seventh in the majors in hits since 2021.</p><p>"I do think (Bichette) was sincere about thinking about coming to Philadelphia," Dombrowski said, according to Gelb.</p><p>The executive added, "I think what ended up happening is the dollar numbers … we were at the numbers they really asked us to match. We were still going through some nuances, but I think in that last time period, the Mets jumped in full bore ahead. Their short-term offer ended up being so much that they decided to take the short-term offer rather than the long-term offer."</p><p>He <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2013634535884234856">said</a> he still feels great about the club despite not adding Bichette and doesn't plan to attempt to sign another marquee free agent, according to <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2013634535884234856">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>.</p><p>"We're content where we are," Dombrowski <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2013637629405995322">said</a>.</p>

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 4: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays bats in the second inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on August 4, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34193561/related

Dombrowski: Phillies losing out on Bichette was 'gut punch'

Atlanta Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim is expected to miss four-to-five months after sustaining a ...

<p>Atlanta Braves shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12593" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12593">Ha-Seong Kim</a> is expected to miss four-to-five months after sustaining a hand injury in Korea, the team announced Sunday.</p><p>Kim underwent surgery to repair a torn tendon in his right middle finger.</p><p>The 30-year-old suffered the injury when he fell on ice, according to <a href="https://x.com/mlbbowman/status/2012980629483237809">Mark Bowman of MLB.com</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kim signed a one-year, $20-million deal with the Braves in December. He appeared in 24 games with Atlanta last season after starting the year with the Tampa Bay Rays.</p><p>He slashed .234/.304/.345 with five home runs and 17 RBIs over 48 contests in 2025.</p><p>Offseason acquisition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5676" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5676">Mauricio Dubón</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5404" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5404">Jorge Mateo</a>, whom the Braves signed to a one-year deal on Monday, will likely share the bulk of shortstop reps with Kim sidelined.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 26: Ha-Seong Kim #9 of the Atlanta Braves looks on during batting practice before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Truist Park on September 26, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34172653/related

Braves' Kim to miss 4-5 months after finger surgery

The New York Yankees are unwilling to engage in a bidding war for free-agent outfielder Cody Bell...

<p>The New York Yankees are unwilling to engage in a bidding war for free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> and are prepared to let the 30-year-old sign elsewhere, reports the <a href="https://x.com/BobKlap/status/2012983714486075861">Newark Star-Ledger's Bob Klapisch</a>.</p><p>New York considers its previous proposal to Bellinger - a five-year, $160-million contract with two opt-outs - to be a fair deal, Klapisch adds.</p><p>Bellinger and the Yankees have been negotiating a new pact for most of the winter, with the free agent's camp reportedly rejecting a five-year, $155-million offer before continuing discussions with New York last week.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Both sides have reportedly explored alternative options. Bellinger has been linked to the San Francisco Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers, though the Dodgers' interest was reported before they agreed to a deal with outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>.</p><p>The New York Mets are also a potential option for Bellinger and are interested in signing him to a short-term deal, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6981273/2026/01/18/mets-bo-bichette-plans-free-agency-trades/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Will Sammon</a>. The Mets are on the hunt for an outfielder after trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a> to the Texas Rangers.</p><p>Bellinger entered free agency following a terrific 2025 season with the Bronx Bombers, slashing .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs while playing terrific outfield defense.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 20: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees waits for a pitch in the fifth inning during a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 20, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34173445/related

Report: Yankees won't engage in bidding war for Bellinger

The Los Angeles Dodgers don't intend to trade outfielder Teoscar Hernández despite agreeing to a ...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers don't intend to trade outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> despite agreeing to a four-year contract with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6978152/2026/01/16/mlb-free-agency-orioles-justin-verlander-zac-gallen/?">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Hernández, who has been mentioned in offseason trade rumors, will reportedly move to left field to accommodate Tucker in right.</p><p>The 33-year-old has emerged as a trade candidate following a down 2025 season in which he slashed .247/.284/.454 and posted his lowest OPS+ (103) across a full campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Although Hernández still hit 25 homers and drove in 89 runs, he ranked in the third percentile in outs above average last season. He's accumulated minus-14 defensive runs saved as a left fielder throughout his career.</p><p>The veteran slugger is owed $41.8 million over the next two years ($16 million of which is deferred) and has contract options for 2028 and 2029.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 5: Teoscar Hernandez #37 of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the outfield in the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on April 5, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34171562/related

Report: Dodgers plan to keep Teo after adding Tucker

The Colorado Rockies agreed to a two-year, $12.8-million deal with veteran utility player Willi C...

<p>The Colorado Rockies agreed to a two-year, $12.8-million deal with veteran utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5188" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5188">Willi Castro</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2011900145215160820">FanSided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>Castro split the 2025 campaign between the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs, slashing .226/.313/.366 with 31 extra-base hits and 10 steals while appearing at six different defensive positions. His arm strength ranked in the 86th percentile, according to <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/willi-castro-650489?stats=statcast-r-hitting-mlb">Baseball Savant</a>. </p><p>The 28-year-old Castro was an All-Star in 2024 when he put together his best campaign in the big leagues.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Colorado has also added outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12616" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12616">Jake McCarthy</a> and veteran starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4295" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4295">Michael Lorenzen</a> to the roster over the past week.</p>

CINCINNATI, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 20: Willi Castro #1 of the Chicago Cubs bats during a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on September 20, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34130489/related

Report: Rockies agree to 2-year, $12.8M deal with Castro

It's been an exciting week for Alex Bregman, who announced Thursday at his introductory press con...

<p>It's been an exciting week for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>, who announced Thursday at his introductory press conference with the Chicago Cubs that he'll play for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome back, Breggy!<br><br>Alex Bregman will play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/u7wBwqTVQ7">pic.twitter.com/u7wBwqTVQ7</a></p>— USA Baseball (@USABaseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/USABaseball/status/2011854421010071726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bregman signed a five-year, $175-million contract with the Cubs after spending the 2025 campaign with the Boston Red Sox. The third baseman played his first nine MLB seasons with the Houston Astros.</p><p>The 31-year-old owns a career .272/.365/.481 slash line with 209 home runs and 725 RBIs. He's earned three All-Star Game nods and won two World Series championships.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bregman's announcement came shortly after retired left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/945" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/945">Clayton Kershaw</a> was added to the star-studded American roster, which also includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>, and more.</p>

BRONX, NY - OCTOBER 02: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox at bat during the American League Wild Card Game 3 against the New York Yankees October 2, 2025 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34128979/related

Bregman added to stacked USA roster for World Baseball Classic

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/bryan-mcwilliam/content_cards

Bryan Mcwilliam

News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/simon-sharkey-gotlieb/content_cards

Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/caio-miari/content_cards