With the Baseball Hall of Fame's class of 2025 announcement approaching, it's time to review this...

<p><em>With the Baseball Hall of Fame's class of 2025 announcement approaching, it's time to review this year's ballot. Today, we look at returnees with stellar numbers who had on- and off-field controversies that stalled their candidacies - and sent one player's into a tailspin. </em></p><p><em>Note: All WAR figures from Baseball Reference unless otherwise noted.</em></p><h3>Andy Pettitte</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/4357/cropped_REU_1868222.jpg?ts=1673900165" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/4357/w220xh124_REU_1868222.jpg?ts=1673900165 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/4357/w320xh180_REU_1868222.jpg?ts=1673900165 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/4357/w640xh360_REU_1868222.jpg?ts=1673900165 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/4357/w768xh432_REU_1868222.jpg?ts=1673900165 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/4357/w1080xh607_REU_1868222.jpg?ts=1673900165 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ray Stubblebine / Reuters</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Position:</strong> SP<br><strong>Years: </strong>1995-2013<br><strong>Teams:</strong> Yankees, Astros<br><strong>S-JAWS:</strong> 47.2 (82nd at SP)<br><strong>WAR:</strong> 60.2 (64th)<br><strong>Year on ballot:</strong> 7th (13.5% in 2024)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>IP</th>
<th>W-L</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
<th>K</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>3316</td>
<td>256-153</td>
<td>3.85</td>
<td>1.35</td>
<td>2448</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Pettitte never won a major award, but he was consistent on the mound for most of his career and is New York's all-time strikeout leader. His weak regular-season numbers are somewhat offset by his playoff resume, which includes eight World Series appearances, five rings, the 2001 ALCS MVP, and multiple records, including the most wins (19) in postseason history.</p><p>But he likely hasn't been able to garner support because his name was in the Mitchell Report alongside other PED users. Pettitte admitted to using human growth hormone shortly after the report's release but said he only did it to speed up his recovery from a 2002 elbow injury and never used any steroids (HGH is a banned substance, but it's technically not a steroid). It's true: He never tested positive for any banned substance after MLB began its drug testing program in 2004. But, even if we ignore the HGH incident, Pettitte's case is far from a statistical lock, relying heavily on his playoff dominance.</p><p>Voters have generally given Pettitte the cold shoulder over his first six years on the ballot. This year, however, he seems to be making something of a move. Thanks to a net gain of 18, Pettitte's suddenly sitting at 33.7% in the tracker, by far his best showing on public ballots since arriving in 2019 and more than double last year's final pre-election total.<strong> </strong>Only Carlos Beltrán (net-20) has a higher net gain so far this cycle.</p><h3>Manny Ramírez</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/454400/cropped_GettyImages-589146006.jpg?ts=1620173241" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/454400/w220xh124_GettyImages-589146006.jpg?ts=1620173241 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/454400/w320xh180_GettyImages-589146006.jpg?ts=1620173241 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/454400/w640xh360_GettyImages-589146006.jpg?ts=1620173241 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/454400/w768xh432_GettyImages-589146006.jpg?ts=1620173241 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/454400/w1080xh607_GettyImages-589146006.jpg?ts=1620173241 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rick Friedman / Corbis Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Position:</strong> RF/LF<br><strong>Years: </strong>1993-2011<br><strong>Teams:</strong> Cleveland, Red Sox, Dodgers, White Sox, Rays<br><strong>JAWS:</strong> 54.6 (10th at LF)<br><strong>WAR:</strong> 69.3 (8th)<br><strong>Year on ballot:</strong> 9th (32.5% in 2024)</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>BA</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>H</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2302</td>
<td>.312</td>
<td>.996</td>
<td>2574</td>
<td>555</td>
<td>1831</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Ramírez was one of the most dangerous hitters of his generation. He was an integral part of Cleveland's powerful 1990s clubs and two World Series-winning teams in Boston. The nine-time Silver Slugger ranks 15th all-time in homers and 20th in RBIs, and he owns the sixth-best slugging percentage (.585) and OPS among right-handed hitters. Ramírez is undeniably one of the greatest right-handed hitters since the Second World War and, on paper, a first-ballot Hall of Famer. Unfortunately, his two positive performance-enhancing drug tests - the second of which led to him suddenly retiring in 2011 rather than serving a 100-game suspension - are a massive stain on his resume.</p><p>Ramírez is at 36.2% in the tracker<strong> </strong>right now, up slightly from his final total last winter. But that also means nothing because of a minus-2 net gain, and his final number will drop again once private ballots are included. Not even the inevitable tenth-year bump in 2026 can save him now.</p><h3>Alex Rodriguez</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/493182/cropped_GettyImages-51725767.jpg?ts=1733765799" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/493182/w220xh124_GettyImages-51725767.jpg?ts=1733765799 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/493182/w320xh180_GettyImages-51725767.jpg?ts=1733765799 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/493182/w640xh360_GettyImages-51725767.jpg?ts=1733765799 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/493182/w768xh432_GettyImages-51725767.jpg?ts=1733765799 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/493182/w1080xh607_GettyImages-51725767.jpg?ts=1733765799 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Vince Bucci / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Position:</strong> SS/3B<br><strong>Years: </strong>1994-2016<br><strong>Teams:</strong> Mariners, Rangers, Yankees<br><strong>JAWS:</strong> 90.9 (2nd at SS)<br><strong>WAR:</strong> 117.6 (2nd)<br><strong>Year on ballot:</strong> 3rd (34.8% in 2024)</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>BA</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>H</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2784</td>
<td>.295</td>
<td>.930</td>
<td>3115</td>
<td>696</td>
<td>2086</td>
<td>329</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Rodriguez redefined the shortstop position before a pretty impressive second act at third base. The raw numbers speak for themselves: three MVPs, four Hank Aaron Awards, 10 Silver Sluggers, top-five all-time in home runs and RBIs, top-10 in extra-base hits, total bases and runs scored, top-15 in both versions of WAR (and second among shortstops), and one of four players with 3,000 hits and 600 homers. If that's not a Hall of Famer, what is?</p><p>Alas, nothing is that simple with A-Rod. He <a href="https://vault.si.com/vault/2009/02/16/confronting-arod">admitted</a> to using PEDs while with the Rangers from 2001-03 (before MLB began its drug testing program) after being named in a 2009 report that listed 104 players as having failed MLB's supposedly anonymous drug tests six years earlier. </p><p>His name came up again in 2013 when the <a href="https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/a-miami-clinic-supplies-drugs-to-sports-biggest-names-6396907">Miami New Times</a> linked Rodriguez, and several other stars, to the anti-aging clinic that supplied them with PEDs. A-Rod missed the entire 2014 season because of the ensuing suspension.</p><p>Rodriguez's tracker total (40.5% of known ballots) looks OK given his situation, but that net gain of minus-1 indicates his support is all but capped out with six years remaining in his candidacy.</p><h3>Omar Vizquel</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/492999/cropped_GettyImages-1320176263.jpg?ts=1642722836" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/492999/w220xh124_GettyImages-1320176263.jpg?ts=1642722836 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/492999/w320xh180_GettyImages-1320176263.jpg?ts=1642722836 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/492999/w640xh360_GettyImages-1320176263.jpg?ts=1642722836 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/492999/w768xh432_GettyImages-1320176263.jpg?ts=1642722836 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/492999/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1320176263.jpg?ts=1642722836 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Focus On Sport / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Position:</strong> SS<br><strong>Years: </strong>1989-2012<br><strong>Teams:</strong> Mariners, Cleveland, Giants, Rangers, White Sox, Blue Jays<br><strong>JAWS:</strong> 36.2 (45th at SS)<br><strong>WAR:</strong> 45.6 (31st)<br><strong>Year on ballot:</strong> 8th (17.7% in 2024)</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>BA</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>H</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>SB</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2968</td>
<td>.272</td>
<td>.688</td>
<td>2877</td>
<td>80</td>
<td>951</td>
<td>404</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Vizquel was a great defensive shortstop with 11 Gold Gloves to his name. But he <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/Aqldl">ranks 18th</a> among shortstops in fielding runs and posted negative total zone run numbers in two of his Gold Glove-winning seasons. He retired as the all-time hits leader among Venezuelans and ranks 13th all-time in games played, but he only got to those marks while in part-time roles until age 45.</p><p>Nonetheless, his fielding, longevity, and status as a respected leader of Cleveland's iconic 1990s teams helped Vizquel cross the 50% mark in 2020, usually a sign of eventual induction. That climb stopped following a December 2020 investigation by <a href="https://theathletic.com/2254716/2020/12/16/omar-vizquel-domestic-abuse/">The Athletic's Katie Strang and Ken Rosenthal</a> into domestic violence allegations. Vizquel was never charged with any crime and has <a href="http://twitter.com/VizquelOmar13/status/1475596219212836866">repeatedly</a> <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2023/12/31/omar-vizquel-unwelcomed-sexual-harassment-lawsuit-hall-of-fame/72057157007/">denied</a> all the allegations. </p><p>The following August, a former bat boy with autism for the Double-A Birmingham Barons <a href="https://theathletic.com/2757738/2021/08/07/omar-vizquel-sued-for-sexual-harassment-by-former-birmingham-barons-batboy/">sued</a> Vizquel and the White Sox (Birmingham's parent team), alleging that Vizquel, then the Barons' manager, sexually harassed and exposed himself to the bat boy in the shower in 2019. The White Sox fired Vizquel in September 2019.</p><p>Vizquel received 49.1% in 2021 because many voters who would eventually stop supporting him had already cast their ballots. He's seen a 66% drop in support since. With just 20 public votes thus far, Vizquel's destined to finish his eligibility at the bottom of the ballot.</p>

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2025 Baseball HOF preview: Can any controversial star gain momentum?

The San Diego Padres added some catching depth Thursday, agreeing to a minor-league contract with...

<p>The San Diego Padres added some catching depth Thursday, agreeing to a minor-league contract with veteran free-agent backstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1841" href="/wbc/players/1841">Martín Maldonado</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/dennistlin/status/1880012197197484372">Dennis Lin of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Maldonado's deal includes an invitation to big-league spring training.</p><p>The 38-year-old will try to get back to the majors following a dismal 2024 season with the Chicago White Sox. Maldonado hit a career-worst .119/.174/.230 with four home runs and 51 strikeouts across 48 games before being released in July. His batting average was the lowest ever in a single season for a position player with at least 135 at-bats, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/OQaRh">Stathead</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Maldonado's defense, his calling card, also fell off in 2024. The former Gold Glove winner put up minus-7 defensive runs saved and minus-3 catcher framing runs, while catching only three runners stealing in 388 2/3 innings behind the plate.</p><p>He'll attempt to return to the majors as a glove-first backup and clubhouse leader in San Diego. Projected starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10824" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10824">Luis Campusano</a> and minor-league journeyman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12296" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12296">Brett Sullivan</a>, who got into seven games last season, are the only catchers currently on the Padres' 40-man roster.</p><p>Maldonado could also help mentor 18-year-old top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16184">Ethan Salas</a>, who's risen quickly through the Padres' farm system but has only played nine games above Single-A.</p><p>A veteran of 14 big-league seasons, Maldonado is best known for his six years with the Houston Astros, where he was the starting catcher on three pennant-winning clubs and one World Series champion. The Puerto Rico native ranks fourth in defensive runs saved (59) among catchers with at least 9,000 innings since 2003, and he won a Gold Glove with the Angels in 2017.</p><p> </p>

CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 20: Chicago White Sox catcher Martín Maldonado (15) looks on during an MLB game against the Houston Astros on June 20, 2024 at Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Padres agree to minor-league deal with Martín Maldonado

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2025 Baseball HOF preview: Wright, Pedroia among stars hoping to stay on

Spring training is about a month away, but Alex Bregman still isn't ready to lower his asking pri...

<p>Spring training is about a month away, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> still isn't ready to lower his asking price.</p><p>The All-Star third baseman's agent, Scott Boras, told <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2025/01/15/pete-alonso-alex-bregman-scott-boras-corbin-burnes/77725450007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a> that his client - who remains a free agent - is still seeking a long-term deal and isn't interested in signing a shorter contract with opt-outs.</p><p>"Bregman's a championship player, teams know it," Boras said. "It's really a matter of his decision-making and theirs, about how you can close up that gap. There's substantial interest (in long-term) deals."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bregman became a free agent for the first time this winter following nine seasons with the Houston Astros. The 30-year-old headed to the open market after a bit of a down year at the plate in which he hit .260/.315/.453 with 26 homers and 75 RBIs over 145 games. However, Bregman won his first Gold Glove at the hot corner.</p><p>The Astros and Bregman were apparently far apart in negotiations earlier in the winter. Bregman reportedly sought a deal north of $200 million, while the Astros offered $156 million over six years. Houston chose to move on after acquiring Isaac Paredes to play third base.</p><p>The Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays have been linked to Bregman this offseason. He and his camp remain engaged with all three teams, according to Nightengale, although no deal appears to be imminent.</p><p>Signing Bregman will require a team to forfeit a draft pick since he turned down the Astros' qualifying offer in November.</p>

OAKLAND, CA - JULY 22: Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros during the game against the Oakland Athletics at the Oakland Coliseum on July 22, 2024 in Oakland, California. The Athletics defeated the Astros 4-0.

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Boras: Bregman not interested in signing short-term deal

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2025 Baseball HOF preview: Best of this year's 'one-and-dones'

The Roki Sasaki sweepstakes are down to three finalists - the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padr...

<p>The Roki Sasaki sweepstakes are down to three finalists - the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays. We won't have to wait much longer to see where Sasaki signs, as he's eligible to pick a team as early as Wednesday, the first day of the 2025 international amateur signing window, and has until Jan. 23 to ink a deal in the majors.</p><p>Before his decision is announced, let's dive into the pros and cons of all three finalists.</p><h3>Dodgers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759966/cropped_GettyImages-2179895461.jpg?ts=1733845605" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759966/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179895461.jpg?ts=1733845605 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759966/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179895461.jpg?ts=1733845605 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759966/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179895461.jpg?ts=1733845605 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759966/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179895461.jpg?ts=1733845605 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759966/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179895461.jpg?ts=1733845605 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Dodgers are once again in the mix for a top free agent. It's no surprise given the organization's 12-year run of success. To many observers, they're the favorite. But is L.A. the right fit for Sasaki?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Pros</strong></p><p>Let's get the obvious out of the way - it's the Dodgers. They're more than just the reigning World Series champions. This team is a star-studded machine. Over the last 12 seasons, the Dodgers won 11 division titles (and missed the 12th by one game), four pennants, and two championships. They're in a class of their own at the major-league level. Who wouldn't want to join them?</p><p>The Dodgers also offer committed ownership that will stop at nothing to field a winner and have a world-class player development system that continues to churn out impact prospects. Sasaki could become an even better pitcher under the Dodgers. Furthermore, the franchise boasts one of the sport's most iconic uniforms and offers a world-famous venue in a great city. And, as a bonus, he could make his big-league debut back home when the Dodgers open their 2025 season in Tokyo.</p><p>Sasaki can also find comfort in the clubhouse. The Dodgers' imprint in Japan is second to none, and he already has relationships with Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Having multiple people that speak his language would ease the transition of joining a new league and country.</p><p><strong>Cons</strong></p><p>Money is clearly not at the front of Sasaki's mind. He chose to forgo a potentially bigger payday at age 25 by coming over now. But of the three finalists, the Dodgers can only offer him a maximum of $8.1 million, the lowest maximum bonus among the three finalists. It's not the biggest factor going against L.A., but it's worth noting.</p><p>Then there's the injury factor. For all of their success developing pitchers, the Dodgers simply can't keep them healthy. Nearly every one of their most important starting pitchers last season, plus several of their prized youngsters, missed some or all of 2024 with injuries. Some of those injuries were shoulder and elbow ailments. Sasaki battled through an elbow issue in NPB last year, and he's a fragile young pitcher. Does he really want that kind of track record hanging over his head as a rookie?</p><p>L.A. also has a ton of starting pitchers. That might allow the team to limit Sasaki's innings and protect his arm, but it would come at the cost of experience. He'd also be joining a fully developed team with many established stars, including several big-name Japanese players that dwarf Sasaki's star power back home. With the Dodgers, he could merely be a cog in a well-oiled machine as opposed to his own unique brand of star elsewhere. If he wants the challenge of building something himself without the intense spotlight that comes with life in Los Angeles, this team might not be for him.</p><h3>Padres</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749139/cropped_GettyImages-2176828824.jpg?ts=1728475640" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749139/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176828824.jpg?ts=1728475640 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749139/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176828824.jpg?ts=1728475640 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749139/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176828824.jpg?ts=1728475640 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749139/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176828824.jpg?ts=1728475640 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749139/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176828824.jpg?ts=1728475640 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Daniel Shirey / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Padres have been under the Dodgers' shadow for a while. The rivalry has blossomed since a postseason meeting in 2020, and the Dodgers have two World Series titles in that span, while the Padres are yet to punch a ticket to the Fall Classic. Luring Sasaki away from Los Angeles could shift momentum in the rivalry and turn the animosity up to 11.</p><p><strong>Pros</strong></p><p>San Diego is one of the most consistently underrated cities in the U.S., offering all the benefits of Southern California life without the spotlight and traffic of Los Angeles. Sasaki seems to be a quieter personality, and this should be a major selling point.</p><p>But while the Padres are a smaller-market team, they've been aggressive in their attempts to build a winner of late and have shown a willingness to spend. They've reached the playoffs three times this decade, have a core group of stars locked up long term, and are right in the middle of their competitive window. San Diego also has a great development program and is known for getting the best out of its prospects, especially pitchers. Pitching at friendly Petco Park also has to be a positive, as is the chance to be in the same rotation as Yu Darvish, his friend and idol.</p><p>While there's pressure to win now in San Diego, it's not a major media market. Sasaki could have the best of both worlds - a winning location coupled with anonymity - if he chooses San Diego.</p><p><strong>Cons</strong></p><p>As we already mentioned, the Dodgers have owned the NL West. The Padres, meanwhile, last claimed a division crown in 2006. That level of dominance narrows San Diego's path to the postseason, along with the chance for Sasaki to thrive under the bright lights of October and replicate Yamamoto's rookie season.</p><p>The Padres are also dealing with serious ownership uncertainty, as the widow of former owner Peter Seidler is filing a lawsuit against two of his brothers for control of the club. San Diego increased its spending in the final years Peter owned the franchise, and it's fair to wonder if that spending will be impacted if the ownership squabble isn't resolved in a timely fashion.</p><h3>Blue Jays</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/606135/cropped_GettyImages-1568283080.jpg?ts=1702411310" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/606135/w220xh124_GettyImages-1568283080.jpg?ts=1702411310 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/606135/w320xh180_GettyImages-1568283080.jpg?ts=1702411310 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/606135/w640xh360_GettyImages-1568283080.jpg?ts=1702411310 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/606135/w768xh432_GettyImages-1568283080.jpg?ts=1702411310 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/606135/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1568283080.jpg?ts=1702411310 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steph Chambers / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Blue Jays are a surprising finalist. They're coming off their first season in the AL East basement in over a decade. What can the franchise offer a pitcher of Sasaki's caliber?</p><p><strong>Pros</strong></p><p>If Sasaki's looking to forge his own path, there's no better opportunity than Toronto. We hear it all the time - the Blue Jays are the only MLB team that represents an entire country. Some might roll their eyes at that, but a number of players that signed with the club in recent years acknowledged a sense of pride.</p><p>Blue Jays pitching coach Pete Walker could be an intriguing X-factor as the team tries to sell Sasaki on the merits of joining them. Walker boasts a number of high-profile success stories in which he helped a pitcher unlock another level. Robbie Ray won the 2021 AL Cy Young in Toronto, and Kevin Gausman and Alek Manoah were finalists for the award in recent years.</p><p>Sasaki would also benefit from pitching in front of one of, if not the best, defensive clubs in baseball. The Blue Jays have won consecutive AL team Gold Glove awards and have two of the best defenders at their respective positions in center fielder Daulton Varsho and second baseman Andrés Giménez. That level of defensive insulation could be reassuring to Sasaki if he struggles to adjust during the huge transition from Japan to North America.</p><p>Sasaki should feel relatively confident that ownership will continue to spend in an effort to field a competitive team. The Blue Jays are consistently a top-10 payroll team in baseball, and they'll need to continue spending to keep pace in the AL East.</p><p><strong>Cons</strong></p><p>The Blue Jays own a concerning track record when it comes to developing pitchers and keeping them healthy. The club was hit by a rash of serious elbow or arm injuries to young hurlers over the past few years. Manoah, Ricky Tiedemann, Brandon Barriera, and Landon Maroudis all sustained serious injuries that required surgery within the last year, and that should be a point of concern for a pitcher like Sasaki, who's only eclipsed 100 innings twice in his young career. The track record of homegrown pitching success stories under Ross Atkins have been few and far between.</p><p>Sasaki and his representatives will likely have big questions about the roster in Toronto moving forward. The Blue Jays face the possibility of starting the 2026 season without both Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, and the farm system is lacking in impact talent, leaving the franchise in a precarious position. It's hard to see Sasaki signing up for that level of uncertainty without some level of assurance for the Blue Jays' front office that alternatives will be lined up to ensure the team remains competitive.</p><p>Sasaki might also wonder about pitching in the AL East. The Yankees never accept losing, the Red Sox are on the upswing, and the Orioles are loaded with homegrown offensive talent. Throw in the Rays and their ability to put pressure on opposing pitchers, and it's easy to see why pitching in the AL East isn't the most appealing scenario.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 20: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan looks on during the 2023 World Baseball Classic Semifinal game between Team Mexico and Team Japan at loanDepot Park on Monday, March 20, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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Sasaki's selection: Breaking down the Japanese ace's 3 finalists

The Toronto Blue Jays and All-Star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. avoided arbitration Thursd...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays and All-Star first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> avoided arbitration Thursday by agreeing to a $28.5-million contract for 2025, the team announced.</p><p>The figure represents the third-largest one-year contract for an arbitration-eligible player in MLB history, per <a href="https://twitter.com/SNstats/status/1877513920295936080">Sportsnet Stats</a>. Only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> ($30 million in 2023) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> ($31 million in 2024) have received higher deals.</p><p>Guerrero enjoyed a bounce-back 2024 season, winning a Silver Slugger and finishing sixth in AL MVP voting after hitting .323/.396/.544 with 30 home runs and 103 RBIs in 159 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 25-year-old is entering his final season of team control before free agency. While Guerrero and the Blue Jays are apparently interested in an extension, the sides are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3182449" href="https://thescore.com/news/3182449">reportedly</a> around $100 million apart. Guerrero has also said he won't negotiate after spring training begins.</p><p>The Blue Jays avoided arbitration with all eight of their eligible players.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - SEPTEMBER 11: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays gestures in the sixth inning during a game against the New York Mets at Rogers Centre on September 11, 2024 in Toronto, Canada.

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Blue Jays, Vladdy avoid arbitration with 1-year, $28.5M deal

The Boston Red Sox are wasting no time trying to keep Garrett Crochet at Fenway Park for the long...

<p>The Boston Red Sox are wasting no time trying to keep <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> at Fenway Park for the long haul.</p><p>Boston has had some discussions with the newly acquired left-hander about a contract extension, a source told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/01/red-sox-garrett-crochet-have-opened-talks-on-contract-extension.html">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>. It's unclear how advanced the discussions might be.</p><p>The Red Sox landed Crochet from the Chicago White Sox in a blockbuster trade for four prospects during the winter meetings. He was made available by Chicago after authoring a breakout 2024 season, his first as a full-time starter. The 25-year-old put up a 3.58 ERA, 2.69 FIP, and 1.07 WHIP across 32 starts for the White Sox, while his 209 strikeouts ranked fourth in the American League.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Crochet is entering his second year of arbitration and is projected by <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html?utm_source=twitter">MLB Trade Rumors</a> to earn $2.9 million in 2025. He and the Red Sox have until 1 p.m. ET Thursday to agree to a contract for 2025 or exchange figures ahead of an arbitration hearing next month.</p><p>The Red Sox have made upgrading their pitching staff a priority this offseason. In addition to trading for Crochet, the team also signed former All-Star right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> and veteran closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1366" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1366">Aroldis Chapman</a>.</p>

SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 20: Garrett Crochet #45 of the Chicago White Sox pitches during the second inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres on September 20, 2024 at Petco Park in San Diego, California.

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Report: Red Sox, Crochet have discussed extension

The Texas Rangers added yet another big arm to their revamped bullpen, signing right-hander Chris...

<p>The Texas Rangers added yet another big arm to their revamped bullpen, signing right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3974" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3974">Chris Martin</a> to a one-year contract, they announced Monday.</p><p>Martin's deal is for $5.5 million and includes a $1-million signing bonus, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1876656914672861546">FanSided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>The contract brings Martin back to his hometown of Arlington, Texas, for what could be his final season. In September, he told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2024/09/top-red-sox-reliever-i-think-next-year-will-be-my-last-year.html">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a> that he was anticipating retiring after 2025. It will also mark Martin's second stint with the Rangers, having pitched for them from 2018-19.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 38-year-old spent the last two seasons with the Boston Red Sox, who had interest in retaining Martin and offered him more money, a source told <a href="https://x.com/bradfo/status/1876448458242146662">Rob Bradford of Audacity Sports</a>. However, he ultimately took fewer dollars in order to pitch at home.</p><p>Martin has quietly been one of the best relievers in baseball since 2020. Over that span, he's put up the lowest BB/9 rate (1.06) among qualified relievers while allowing just 18 home runs. In 2023, he earned some down-ballot Cy Young votes after posting a sparkling 1.05 ERA and 1.03 WHIP while surrendering only eight walks and two homers in 51 1/3 innings.</p><p>Martin was limited to 45 appearances this past season because of shoulder and elbow injuries, and he also missed time due to anxiety. When healthy, he was still effective, putting up a 3.45 ERA, 2.78 FIP, and 1.13 WHIP along with 50 strikeouts and just three walks.</p><p>He gives Rangers manager Bruce Bochy another new high-leverage weapon out of the bullpen. Texas has been busy upgrading its relief corps this winter, having previously added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10583" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10583">Jacob Webb</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8389" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8389">Hoby Milner</a>, and Shawn Armstrong in free agency while also trading for left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15660" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15660">Robert Garcia</a>.</p><p>Martin owns a lifetime 3.38 ERA, 2.96 FIP, and 1.13 WHIP with 357 strikeouts and 14 saves over parts of nine big-league seasons with seven teams. He earned a World Series ring as a member of the Atlanta Braves in 2021.</p><p>To make room for Martin on the 40-man roster, Texas designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10558">Matt Festa</a> for assignment.</p>

BOSTON, MA - MAY 1: Chris Martin #55 of the Boston Red Sox reacts during the eighth inning of a game against the San Francisco Giants on May 1, 2024 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Rangers sign Chris Martin to 1-year deal reportedly worth $5.5M

The Cincinnati Reds acquired infielder Gavin Lux from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for out...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds acquired infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8195">Gavin Lux</a> from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for outfield prospect Mike Sirota and a competitive balance round A draft pick, the teams announced.</p><p>Lux, 27, hit .251/.320/.383 with 10 home runs and 50 RBIs across 139 games with the Dodgers last season. Due to his struggles against left-handers, he was primarily deployed at second base against right-handed pitching as part of a platoon. He was their primary starter at the keystone during the postseason and had a key at-bat in their World Series-clinching win at Yankee Stadium.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gavin Lux’s last at-bat in a Dodgers uniform.<br><br>He hit the game-tying sacrifice fly in the 8th inning of World Series Game 5.<br><br>The Dodgers took the lead two batters later, and the rest is history.<br><br>A nice lasting image for Lux in Los Angeles.<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/RWxEwo7ec9">pic.twitter.com/RWxEwo7ec9</a></p>— Noah Camras (@noahcamras) <a href="https://twitter.com/noahcamras/status/1876408025692746140?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>His place in the Dodgers' infield became more of a question after L.A. added another left-handed hitting infielder, Korean star second baseman Hyeseong Kim, last week.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>At the time of Kim's signing, general manager Brandon Gomes had <a href="https://x.com/ByJackHarris/status/1875296002128932956">said</a> Lux was still slated to be the Dodgers' starting second baseman. Now, L.A. can shift <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> from shortstop to second - his natural infield spot - while Kim and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a> work in a shortstop platoon.</p><p>With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13866" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13866">Matt McLain</a> due to return at second base after missing 2024, the Reds are preparing to use Lux all over the diamond in a utility role. Although second has been his primary position, Lux has big-league experience at shortstop and left field. He was supposed to be L.A.'s shortstop last season before swapping spots with Betts amid throwing issues in spring training.</p><p>"We look at (Lux) as a guy that's going to play second base, play some outfield and DH some in spring training. We'll also give him a look at third and short and see where it is, see where he is defensively with all those positions," president of baseball operations Nick Krall said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/gavin-lux-reds-dodgers-trade">Mark Sheldon of MLB.com</a>. "We think that he's a quality left-handed hitter that just lengthens our lineup out."</p><p>Lux owns a lifetime .709 OPS across parts of five seasons with the Dodgers. The Wisconsin native is entering his second year of arbitration and is projected by <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html?utm_source=twitter">MLB Trade Rumors</a> to earn $2.7 million in 2025.</p><p>The New York Yankees and Seattle Mariners reportedly had interest in trading for Lux before he was sent to Cincinnati.</p><p>To make room for Lux on the 40-man roster, Cincinnati designated reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12546" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12546">Roansy Contreras</a> for assignment.</p><p>Sirota, the prospect heading to L.A., was Cincinnati's third-round pick out of Northeastern this past summer. The 21-year-old, a grandnephew of Hall of Fame pitcher Whitey Ford, boosted his draft stock by hitting .298/.473/.513 with seven homers, 37 RBIs, and 19 steals as a junior with Northeastern. </p><p>The Dodgers originally drafted Sirota as a high-schooler in 2021.</p><p>The pick Cincinnati is sending to the Dodgers is the 37th overall selection in the 2025 draft. The trade gives the Dodgers two picks - the 37th and 40th overall choices - in competitive balance round A, which falls immediately after the first round. Cincinnati's pick cannot be traded a second time.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - JULY 21: Los Angeles Dodgers second base Gavin Lux (9) runs during an MLB baseball game against the Boston Red Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 21, 2024 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

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Dodgers trade Lux to Reds

Nolan Arenado's got eyes for Fenway Park.  The Boston Red Sox are one of Arenado's preferred dest...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a>'s got eyes for Fenway Park.</p><p>The Boston Red Sox are one of Arenado's preferred destinations if he's traded by the St. Louis Cardinals, sources told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2025/01/red-sox-a-preferred-destination-in-nolan-arenado-trade-talks.html">MassLive's Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam</a>.</p><p>Arenado, who put up a .719 OPS with 16 homers in 152 games with St. Louis last season, has full control of his future thanks to a full no-trade clause. He used that clause to block a deal that would have sent him to the Houston Astros last month.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Arenado's agent, Joel Wolfe, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3156213" href="https://thescore.com/news/3156213">revealed</a> in December that he spoke to the Red Sox directly after getting permission from the Cardinals to do so. But while the 10-time Gold Glove third baseman would apparently sign off on a move to Boston, it's not clear whether there have been any trade talks between Boston and St. Louis, or how far along they might be. </p><p>Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak has been open about trying to move Arenado before Opening Day in an attempt to trim payroll. The 33-year-old is owed $74 million over the final three years of his contract, although some of that is deferred. A small portion would also be covered by his former team, the Colorado Rockies, per <a href="https://legacy.baseballprospectus.com/compensation/cots/national-league-central/st-louis-cardinals/">Cot's Contracts</a>.</p><p>Trading for Arenado would also lead to a major roster shake-up in Boston, as the Red Sox already employ an All-Star third baseman in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a>. Although Arenado has expressed a willingness to play first base, he's been the gold standard for defense at the hot corner over the last decade. A more likely scenario would see Devers, who's more limited defensively, move across the diamond.</p><p>Shifting Devers to first would then open the door for Boston to trade <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12885" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12885">Triston Casas</a>, who's reportedly been made available this winter. Although chief baseball officer Craig Breslow <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3174646" href="https://thescore.com/news/3174646">denied</a> this week that Casas is being shopped, the belief around the majors is that the team is still open to dealing the young first baseman, Cotillo and McAdam report.</p><p>The Red Sox, who finished third in the AL East at 81-81 in 2024, beefed up their starting rotation this offseason by signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> and trading for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>. They've also recently been connected to another star third baseman in free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>.</p><p>Other reported suitors for Arenado include the New York Yankees, who recently signed his longtime Cardinals teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1851" href="/mlb/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a>. The Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego Padres have also been linked to Arenado.</p>

BOSTON, MA - MAY 13: Nolan Arenado #28 of the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on May 13, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Report: Red Sox among Arenado's preferred teams

The Toronto Blue Jays have made an offer to free-agent outfielder Anthony Santander, a source tol...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays have made an offer to free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a>, a source told <a href="https://www.click2houston.com/sports/2025/01/04/after-astros-talks-with-bregman-stalled-3-teams-emerge-as-serious-suitors/">Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston</a>.</p><p>Details of Toronto's reported proposal to the 2024 American League All-Star aren't known. Santander is thought to be asking for a five-year deal worth at least $100 million, according to <a href="http://www.mlb.com/news/best-remaining-mlb-free-agents-2025">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Santander, the best outfielder left on the free-agent market, has also generated interest from the Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Angels, and Houston Astros, Alexander reports. It's unclear if any of those teams have made a formal offer to the switch-hitter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old hit free agency after a breakthrough 2024 campaign in which he hit .235/.308/.506 with 44 home runs and 102 RBIs with the Baltimore Orioles. For his efforts, Santander won his first career Silver Slugger and was named an American League All-Star.</p><p>Santander is tied to draft-pick compensation after rejecting Baltimore's $21.05-million qualifying offer in November.</p><p>The Blue Jays have been attempting to make a splash throughout this offseason, but have come up short in their pursuit of several marquee free agents, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a>.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JULY 30: Anthony Santander #25 of the Baltimore Orioles bats against the Toronto Blue Jays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on July 30, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Report: Blue Jays make offer to Santander

It hasn't taken Walker Buehler long to start recruiting more talent to the Boston Red Sox.  Buehl...

<p>It hasn't taken <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> long to start recruiting more talent to the Boston Red Sox.</p><p>Buehler, who officially joined the Red Sox on a one-year, $21.05-million contract last week, revealed Friday that he's been talking Boston up to star free-agent infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>. Buehler and Bregman are longtime friends and recently bought a racehorse together.</p><p>"I have certainly made a pitch all over the place for him to come to Boston," Buehler said during his introductory news conference with Red Sox media, according to <a href="https://www.bostonherald.com/2025/01/03/walker-buehler-says-hes-made-a-pitch-for-top-free-agent-to-join-him-with-red-sox/">Mac Cerullo of the Boston Herald</a>. "He and I have been buddies for a long time, we played on Team USA a little bit in college."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bregman feels like something of a natural fit for the Red Sox: He's a right-handed-hitting infielder with power and could help balance a lefty-heavy lineup. With <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> entrenched at the hot corner, Bregman would likely have to shift to second base in Boston, which he's hinted at being willing to do in the right situation.</p><p>Playing home games at Fenway Park would also likely hold great appeal to the 30-year-old Bregman, who's a lifetime .375/.490/.750 hitter at the venerable ballpark. He'd also bring significant championship pedigree to the Red Sox, having won two titles with the Houston Astros during that franchise's recent decade of success.</p><p>However, it's unclear if the Red Sox and Bregman have had any contract talks, or how serious any pursuit of him may be. Last month, <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2024/12/red-sox-pursuing-free-agent-alex-bregman-but-internal-divide-exists.html">MassLive's Sean McAdam</a> reported that the club's opinions about signing him were divided. Manager Alex Cora - who coached Bregman in Houston earlier in his career - and president Sam Kennedy were said to be in favor, while others, including chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, weren't as keen on him.</p><p>The Red Sox would also have to surrender draft-pick compensation to sign Bregman after he rejected Houston's qualifying offer earlier in the offseason.</p><p>Bregman's said to be looking for a deal north of $200 million this winter. The Detroit Tigers are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3172253" href="https://thescore.com/news/3172253">reportedly</a> also showing heavy interest in signing last year's AL Gold Glove third baseman.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - JULY 08: Walker Buehler of the National League All-Stars and Alex Bregman of the American League All-Stars speak on during the Gatorade All-Star Workout Day at Progressive Field on Monday, July 8, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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New Red Sox starter Buehler 'made a pitch' to free-agent star Bregman

The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Korean second baseman Hyeseong Kim to a three-year, $12.5-million ...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Korean second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18713" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18713">Hyeseong Kim</a> to a three-year, $12.5-million contract, they announced Friday. </p><p>Kim's deal also includes a two-year club option for 2028-29 that must be picked up together. If exercised, the option could bring the contract's total value to $22 million, Kim's agency, CAA Baseball, confirmed to <a href="https://x.com/Jeeho_1/status/1875287165615403212">Jeeho Yoo of Yonhap News</a>.</p><p>Kim had until 5 p.m. ET Friday to negotiate a deal with an MLB club, or he would've returned to the Kiwoom Heroes of the Korean Baseball Organization.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just waking up (5 a.m. Saturday here!) and reading Korean media reports on Hyeseong Kim's signing with Dodgers. (3yrs+ 2yr option at max. $22M)<br>One report quotes a CAA official as saying Shohei Ohtani (fellow CAA client) met with Kim in the U.S. and "gave him a lot of advice"</p>— Jeeho Yoo (@Jeeho_1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jeeho_1/status/1875272671036117164?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 25-year-old KBO star recorded 11 homers, 75 RBIs, 30 stolen bases, and a .841 OPS over 127 games for the Heroes in 2024. He also won the KBO Fielding Award at second base for a second consecutive season.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hyeseong Kim. Dodger. 🇰🇷<br><br>Enjoy his elite defensive highlight reel<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/23cLE6twgI">pic.twitter.com/23cLE6twgI</a></p>— Shawn Spradling (@Shawn_Spradling) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/1875265105417662734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Where he'll play in Los Angeles is still being determined. General manager Brandon Gomes said the team's current "mindset" remains heading into 2025 with Mookie Betts at shortstop and Gavin Lux at second, according to <a href="https://x.com/ByJackHarris/status/1875296002128932956">Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times</a>. That means Kim, who has experience at both middle infield spots, is likely destined for a utility role.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gomes also insisted the Dodgers "don't feel like there's anything necessarily that we need to do" as far as dealing from its abundance of infielders<br><br>For now, team is looking at Kim signing as "adding a really talented player and kind of see where things play out" as spring nears</p>— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByJackHarris/status/1875296004247056617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Kim left an impression on the Dodgers when he played against them during an exhibition game in Seoul last March as a member of the Korean national team.</p><p>"Our scouts like the second baseman, just the way his body moves," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said at the time, according to <a href="https://x.com/Jeeho_1/status/1875270278470889633">Yoo</a>. "There's some life to the bat, and, defensively, he made a nice play out there."</p><p>The Dodgers will also have to pay the Heroes a release fee as part of the signing. Per the <a href="https://www.mlb.com/glossary/transactions/korean-posting-system">MLB-KBO posting agreement</a>, as Kim's deal is worth less than $25 million guaranteed, L.A. will pay the Heroes 20% of his $12.5-million contract. If his option is picked up, Kiwoom would receive 15% of his salary in 2028-29, according to <a href="https://x.com/Jeeho_1/status/1875286484758229270">Yoo</a>.</p><p>The defending World Series champions have now inked two-time Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a>, re-signed All-Star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a>, and reportedly added Kim this offseason.</p><p>To open a 40-man roster spot for Kim, the Dodgers designated catcher Diego Cartaya for assignment. Cartaya, once one of the organization's top prospects, put up a .686 OPS in 95 games split between Double-A and Triple-A last season.</p><p>The Los Angeles Angels, Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres also made offers to Kim before he signed with the Dodgers, <a href="https://x.com/Jeeho_1/status/1875272672751579438">Yoo</a> reports.</p>

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - MARCH 18: Kim Hye-seong #3 of Team Korea hits a double in the 3rd inning during the exhibition game between Team Korea and Los Angeles Dodgers at Gocheok Sky Dome on March 18, 2024 in Seoul, South Korea.

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Dodgers sign KBO star Hyeseong Kim to 3-year, $12.5M deal

The Miami Marlins acquired rookie first baseman Matt Mervis and cash from the Chicago Cubs in exc...

<p>The Miami Marlins acquired rookie first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15534" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15534">Matt Mervis</a> and cash from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9864" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9864">Vidal Bruján</a>, the teams announced.</p><p>The deal marks a change of scenery for a pair of former top prospects. Bruján ranked as high as No. 45 in the majors in 2020 on <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/2020/top100/">MLB.com</a>'s top 100 list while playing in the Tampa Bay Rays system. Mervis was never among the top 100 league-wide but had been ranked among the best prospects in the Cubs' system the last few years.</p><p>Mervis hit three home runs over 127 MLB plate appearances across the last two seasons. He spent most of 2024 at Triple-A Iowa, where he hit .235/.329/.434 in an injury-shortened season. However, the left-handed hitting slugger slashed .282/.399/.533 with 22 homers and 78 RBIs at Triple-A in 2023. The Cubs had hopes that he'd be their first baseman of the future before acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12484" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12484">Michael Busch</a> last offseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 26-year-old will likely get the chance to play every day at first base in Miami. Utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13656" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13656">Jonah Bride</a>, the Marlins' projected starter at first base before Sunday's trade, was the only player on their 40-man roster who's played the position in the majors. Rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13760" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13760">Deyvison De Los Santos</a>, the team's projected Opening Day DH, has experience at first in the minors but has yet to make his big-league debut.</p><p>Originally signed by the Cubs as an undrafted free agent in 2020, Mervis is still classified as a rookie for the 2025 season and has one minor-league option remaining.</p><p>Bruján, who'll turn 27 in February, was originally acquired by the Marlins from Tampa Bay in a multi-player trade last November. He hit .222/.303/.319 with two homers and 16 RBIs across 102 games with the Marlins in 2024 before being designated for assignment last week.</p><p>Bruján has more big-league experience than Mervis, having played in 201 contests across four seasons with the Rays and Marlins. He has no minor-league options left but won't reach arbitration until 2026.</p><p>The switch-hitter adds some additional versatility to the Cubs' bench in 2025. While his primary positions are second base, right field, and shortstop, Bruján's made at least one appearance in the majors at every position but catcher. He'll likely compete with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14686" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14686">Luis Vazquez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14187" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14187">Gage Workman</a> in spring training for a bench spot.</p>

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 29: Miami Marlins shortstop Vidal Brujan (17) bats during an MLB game against the Colorado Rockies on August 29, 2024 at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado.

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The 2024 MLB season was a wild ride. With plenty of records, classic moments, and even scandals, ...

<p>The 2024 MLB season was a wild ride. With plenty of records, classic moments, and even scandals, it'll undoubtedly be remembered for a long time. Let's look back at nine stories that captivated the baseball world this year.</p><h3>Ippei's arrest</h3><p>Ippei Mizuhara became an unlikely star in his own right as Shohei Ohtani's interpreter and right-hand man - until it all fell apart. Shortly after the Los Angeles Dodgers' season opener in Seoul, the baseball world got rocked by reports alleging Mizuhara had stolen nearly $17 million from the superstar to place bets with a bookmaker who was the target of a federal investigation. Mizuhara's story changed frequently, as Ohtani insisted that his former interpreter lied repeatedly. Mizuhara later pled guilty to charges of bank fraud and subscribing to a false tax return, and now faces up to 33 years in prison. He's scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 24.</p><p>Ohtani, for his part, was investigated and subsequently cleared of any wrongdoing by MLB. Still, the Mizuhara scandal came on the heels of his signing a then-record $700-million contract with the Dodgers, so this saga dominated sports news for much of the year, and it'll no doubt continue to be a story during Ohtani's career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Skenes arrives with a bang</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632463/cropped_GettyImages-2156574759.jpg?ts=1718157342" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632463/w220xh124_GettyImages-2156574759.jpg?ts=1718157342 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632463/w320xh180_GettyImages-2156574759.jpg?ts=1718157342 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632463/w640xh360_GettyImages-2156574759.jpg?ts=1718157342 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632463/w768xh432_GettyImages-2156574759.jpg?ts=1718157342 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/632463/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2156574759.jpg?ts=1718157342 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Dilip Vishwanat / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Less than a year after being drafted first overall, Paul Skenes arrived in Pittsburgh and laid waste to National League hitters. The 22-year-old turned in an all-time great inaugural campaign, going 11-3 with a 1.96 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 170 strikeouts in 23 starts with the Pirates. Skenes didn't qualify for the title, but his ERA was the lowest in the majors after his May 11 debut. He only allowed more than three runs once and had five no-run, eight-K outings. Skenes was so dominant that he was chosen as the NL's All-Star starter after just 11 major-league appearances. Not only did he run away with NL Rookie of the Year honors, but he finished third in Cy Young voting. It was a fitting entrance for the sport's next great ace.</p><h3>White Sox make worst kind of history</h3><p>Nobody expected the 2024 Chicago White Sox to win the World Series. But who saw <em>this</em> coming? That the White Sox lost a modern-era record 121 contests - only the 1899 Cleveland Spiders lost more - doesn't even begin to tell the story. This club finished 80 games below .500, posted the lowest winning percentage in a 162-match season, and became the first team in 125 years to have three separate 12-game losing streaks - including an AL record-tying 21-contest skid. Three AL Central teams made the playoffs because they got more chances to beat up on this team, and a fourth (the Minnesota Twins) only missed because of a brutal, unrelated collapse. The 2024 White Sox were a flaming car wreck, and nobody could look away. </p><h3>Farewell to Oakland</h3><p>After decades of false starts and relocation threats, 2024 marked the Athletics' final campaign in Oakland. The announcement was a long time coming, but it still marked a sad end to baseball - and major pro sports - in the East Bay. Owner John Fisher's decision to move the team to Sacramento's Triple-A ballpark for at least three seasons while awaiting the new facility in Las Vegas raised even more eyebrows. Oakland fans let MLB know what it's losing by turning the Coliseum into a sold-out party during its final game in September.</p><h3>Ohtani reaches new heights</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758784/cropped_GettyImages-2179001259.jpg?ts=1733319175" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758784/w220xh124_GettyImages-2179001259.jpg?ts=1733319175 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758784/w320xh180_GettyImages-2179001259.jpg?ts=1733319175 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758784/w640xh360_GettyImages-2179001259.jpg?ts=1733319175 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758784/w768xh432_GettyImages-2179001259.jpg?ts=1733319175 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758784/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2179001259.jpg?ts=1733319175 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images / MediaNews Group / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ohtani used the 2024 campaign to prove he was worth every penny of that $700 million deal. Playing strictly as a designated hitter while rehabbing as a pitcher, he inaugurated baseball's 50-50 club with 54 homers and 59 steals. The 30-year-old led the NL in homers and RBIs (130), OBP (.390), slugging (.646), OPS (1.036), and runs scored (134), was the first player to record 400 total bases since 2001, and finished four points shy of a triple crown. He reached 50-50 in an iconic three-homer, six-hit, 10-RBI outing - arguably the greatest single-game performance in history. Oh, and he helped the Dodgers win a World Series despite hurting his shoulder in Game 2. The easy choice for NL MVP, Ohtani is now one of two players, alongside Frank Robinson, to win the award in both leagues.</p><h3>Tigers and 'pitching chaos'</h3><p>On July 30, the Detroit Tigers waved the white flag and dealt pending free agent Jack Flaherty to the Dodgers. On Aug. 10, they fell to 55-63 and 10 games back of a playoff spot. Then, out of nowhere, Detroit started to win. Despite a patchwork rotation made up of AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal and what manager A.J. Hinch called "pitching chaos," the young team went 31-13 down the stretch to improbably clinch its first playoff berth in a decade. Detroit subsequently upset the heavily favored Houston Astros in the wild-card round and, although their season ended in the ALDS, the plucky Tigers won plenty of fans during their magical run.</p><h3>OMG! Mets craft new miracle</h3><p>Over in the Senior Circuit, the New York Mets were busy pulling off their own Cinderella run. Carlos Mendoza's club went 0-5 out of the gate and sat at 22-33 on May 29 before surging to contention over the final four months. This quirky group brought Grimace, that purple thing from McDonald's, into baseball lore, and used the hit song "OMG!" by their utility infielder Jose Iglesias (as Candelita) as a rallying cry. On the field, Francisco Lindor pushed the club into the playoffs with a dramatic go-ahead homer on the campaign's final day, then hit the NLDS-winning grand slam as the Mets upset the Philadelphia Phillies. Their wild run to the NLCS electrified baseball and set the stage for a franchise-altering offseason.</p><h3>Dodgers finally finish the job</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752726/cropped_GettyImages-2181371034.jpg?ts=1730385854" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752726/w220xh124_GettyImages-2181371034.jpg?ts=1730385854 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752726/w320xh180_GettyImages-2181371034.jpg?ts=1730385854 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752726/w640xh360_GettyImages-2181371034.jpg?ts=1730385854 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752726/w768xh432_GettyImages-2181371034.jpg?ts=1730385854 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/752726/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2181371034.jpg?ts=1730385854 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Dodgers have been baseball's model franchise for over a decade, but their critics had plenty of fuel. They only won one championship - in the shortened 2020 season - and were stunningly swept by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2023 NLDS after their 100-win campaign. This time, however, L.A. would not be denied: The team weathered another slew of pitching injuries and Mookie Betts' broken hand en route to posting the best record in baseball. Facing another early exit against the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers righted the ship and eliminated their rivals in a tense NLDS, then fought off the Mets to win the pennant. Freddie Freeman's epic walk-off grand slam in Game 1 of the World Series set the tone, and Los Angeles dispatched the New York Yankees in five for its second title in five years, and first in a 162-game season since 1988.</p><h3>Soto crosses town</h3><p>The cloud of Juan Soto's pending free agency hung above the Yankees all summer long. Once he hit the open market, the baseball world was fixated on the 26-year-old's every move. At times, it felt like the entire offseason was on pause, waiting for his decision. Ultimately, Soto found his money in New York - but not in the Bronx. Mets owner Steve Cohen lured Soto across town with a record 15-year, $765-million contract on the first day of the winter meetings. Stealing a superstar from their civic rivals marked a milestone moment for the Mets. For the league, his signing upped the price tag for just about everyone else and opened the floodgates in what's been a wild winter. MLB will feel the effects of the deal for years to come. </p>

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9 baseball stories that captivated us in 2024

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic exited his team's Christmas Day loss to the Minnesota Timberwol...

<p>Dallas Mavericks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> exited his team's Christmas Day loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves after suffering a left calf strain.</p><p>The team is reportedly preparing for an extended absence for its star, who left the stadium on crutches, <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1872095175142711409">Shams Charania of ESPN</a> reports. He'll undergo an MRI on Thursday.</p><p>Doncic sustained the injury late in the second quarter on a noncontact play. He came up lame and grabbed his leg after starting to drive on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/93891" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/93891">Jaden McDaniels</a>. The Slovenian star immediately went to the locker room with a noticeable limp.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Luka Doncic went back to the locker room after an apparent injury on this play. <a href="https://t.co/R8xlcLdeHQ">pic.twitter.com/R8xlcLdeHQ</a></p>— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNNBA/status/1872018152650854405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Mavericks didn't provide any further updates about the nature of his injury.</p><p>Doncic scored 14 points and grabbed five rebounds in 16 minutes before sustaining the injury. The 25-year-old had missed two of Dallas' last three games because of a left heel contusion.</p><p>The Mavericks mounted a furious comeback attempt without Doncic in the fourth quarter but ultimately fell short in a 105-99 defeat.</p>

DALLAS, TX - DECEMBER 25: Luka Doncic #77 of the Dallas Mavericks shoots the ball during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on December 25, 2024 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Report: Mavs bracing for Doncic to miss extended time

Jimmy Butler's preference is for the Miami Heat to move him before the trade deadline, sources to...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/2809" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/2809">Jimmy Butler</a>'s preference is for the Miami Heat to move him before the trade deadline, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43152878/sources-jimmy-butler-prefers-trade-miami-deadline">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>Although he'd like to be dealt elsewhere, Butler has yet to formally request a trade, Charania adds. </p><p>If no trade can be found, the six-time All-Star is prepared to finish this season in Miami and then test free agency, <a href="https://x.com/Anthony_Chiang/status/1871953037230739838">Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald</a> reports. Butler, who's earning around $48.8 million this season, holds a $52-million player option for 2025-26. Interested teams have been told that he intends to decline the option this summer, according to Charania.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Multiple teams are already showing interest in the 35-year-old wing. Butler's preferred destinations reportedly include the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and his hometown Houston Rockets. However, the Rockets are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3158648" href="https://thescore.com/news/3158648">reportedly</a> unlikely to pursue a Butler trade at this time.</p><p>Butler is listed as doubtful for Thursday's game against the Orlando Magic after not traveling with the team Wednesday, <a href="https://x.com/Anthony_Chiang/status/1872058162012115119">Chiang</a> adds.</p><p>While Miami has spoken to interested teams over the past few weeks, it's unknown if the team has received any official trade offers, per <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nba/miami-heat/article297567663.html">the Miami Herald's Chiang and Barry Jackson</a>.</p><p>Butler's led the Heat to a pair of Eastern Conference championships and three conference finals appearances over his six seasons in Miami. However, relations between him and the team began to sour after he missed the Heat's first-round series against the Boston Celtics with a knee injury last year.</p><p>Following the Heat's elimination last spring, president Pat Riley expressed his unhappiness with Butler for tweeting that the Celtics and New York Knicks would be "at home" if he'd been healthy. Riley's reaction took Butler by surprise, a source told Chiang and Jackson.</p><p>Butler decided that 2024-25 would be his final season in Miami once extension talks stalled over the summer, Chiang and Jackson report.</p><p>Butler is averaging 18.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game across 20 contests this season. He left Miami's Dec. 20 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder early with an illness and has missed the team's last two games. The Heat listed him as doubtful for Thursday's game against the Orlando Magic, citing a return to competition reconditioning.</p><p>The Heat currently hold the Eastern Conference's No. 6 seed with a 14-13 record.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 20: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat controls the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Kaseya Center on December 20, 2024 in Miami, Florida. <<enter caption here>> during the second half at Kaseya Center on December 04, 2024 in Miami, Florida.

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WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez has his next opponent in sight.  Lopez and Subriel...

<p>WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez has his next opponent in sight.</p><p>Lopez and Subriel Matias are finalizing an agreement for a 140-pound title fight March 15, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/43129251/sources-teofimo-lopez-subriel-matias-finalizing-march-15-fight">ESPN's Mike Coppinger</a>.</p><p>The fight will be aired as part of a pay-per-view card on ESPN+. A location for the bout isn't set, although it will take place in the United States, according to Coppinger.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lopez, 27, will be looking for his third successful defense of the WBO junior welterweight title. "The Takeover" first claimed the title by beating Josh Taylor in 2023 and most recently defended it via unanimous decision against Steve Claggett this past June.</p><p>Lopez owns a 21-1 professional record with 13 victories via knockout. The Brooklyn native held multiple titles at lightweight before moving up a class two years ago.</p><p>Matias, meanwhile, is hoping to become a champion for the second time in his career. He won the IBF junior welterweight belt in February 2023 and successfully defended it once before he lost the title to Liam Paro on June 15, 2024. The Puerto Rico native rebounded from that defeat by scoring a second-round KO of Roberto Ramirez in November.</p><p>The 32-year-old is 21-2 as a professional, with all of his victories coming via knockout.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 08: Teofimo Lopez celebrates defeating Jamaine Ortiz to retain the WBO junior welterweight title at Michelob ULTRA Arena on February 08, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Report: Teofimo Lopez finalizing March 15 title fight vs. Matias

The Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a minor-league contract with designated hitter Eloy Jiménez, so...

<p>The Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a minor-league contract with designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8146" href="/wbc/players/8146">Eloy Jiménez</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JesseRogersESPN/status/1871239600532025763">ESPN's Jesse Rogers</a>.</p><p>Jiménez is hoping a move to Tampa will help revitalize his floundering career. The 28-year-old just completed his worst season, hitting .238/.289/.336 with six home runs and 23 RBIs across 98 games split between the Chicago White Sox and Baltimore Orioles.</p><p>Baltimore acquired Jiménez from the White Sox at this year's trade deadline, hoping a change of scenery and move to a contender might spark his bat. Instead, he slumped to a .586 OPS with one homer in 100 plate appearances after the trade and was optioned to Triple-A late in the season. The Orioles declined his $16.5-million club option in November.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Although he came up as an outfielder, the oft-injured Jiménez was always known as a poor defender and has played just 15 games in the outfield over the past two seasons. As strictly a DH, he could be a fit for the Rays provided he's able to rediscover his past power. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13641" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13641">Jonathan Aranda</a> and Jake Magnum are currently projected to open the season in a platoon at DH in Tampa.</p><p>Once a top prospect with the White Sox, Jiménez signed a six-year, $43-million extension in 2019 that was a then-record for a player with no MLB service time. Despite a 31-homer rookie campaign, he never lived up to the deal's expectations, in part thanks to a slew of injuries. Jiménez has never played more than 122 games in a season and has spent time on the IL every year save for the shortened 2020 campaign.</p><p>For his career, Jiménez is a .269/.318/.462 hitter with 95 home runs and 298 RBIs across parts of six seasons with the White Sox and Orioles. The Dominican Republic native won a Silver Slugger in 2020.</p>

DENVER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 1: Eloy Jiménez #72 bats in the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on September 1, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

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Josh Goldberg

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