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MLB News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Monday, November 17, 2025

Michael King's Durability Concerns and Performance Dip Cloud Mets' Signing Decision

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The Mets are evaluating free agent pitcher Michael King, weighing the pros and cons of a potential signing. In 2024, King had a strong season for the Padres, transitioning to a full-time starter and pitching 173.2 innings with a 2.95 ERA and 201 strikeouts. However, his 2025 season was hampered by injuries, including a nerve issue in his throwing shoulder and a knee injury, limiting him to 73.1 innings over 15 starts with a 3.44 ERA. Advanced metrics show a significant drop from 2024 to 2025, with his pitching run value falling from elite to near the bottom, and key metrics like xERA, chase percentage, and whiff percentage declining. His fastball velocity also decreased from 2022 to 2025. While King's recent transition to starting means less arm mileage, his durability and recent performance inconsistencies make him a question mark for the Mets' rotation needs, potentially leading to a short-term contract.

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Josh Naylor Finalizing Five-Year Contract with Mariners After Impactful Season

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First baseman Josh Naylor, 28, is finalizing a five-year contract with the Seattle Mariners, a move president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto called a priority after acquiring him from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Naylor became a free agent following the Mariners' ALCS loss to the Toronto Blue Jays. Manager Dan Wilson highly praised Naylor's intensity, drive, and significant impact on and off the field during his three months with the franchise. In 54 games with Seattle, Naylor hit .299 with nine home runs, 33 RBIs, and 19 stolen bases. He continued his strong performance in 12 postseason games, batting .340 with three homers, five RBIs, and two stolen bases. For the entire season, Naylor posted a .295 average, 20 home runs, 92 RBIs, and a career-high 30 stolen bases.

Giants Ace Logan Webb 'Close' to Joining Team USA for 2026 World Baseball Classic

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San Francisco Giants ace Logan Webb is reportedly "close" to joining Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with full support from manager Mark DeRosa, who stated, "Logan Webb’s participation is definitely something we are interested in." While the partnership remains unofficial due to procedural hurdles, Webb, a two-time MLB All-Star, is seen as a great addition. He previously intended to pitch in the 2023 WBC but opted to focus on changing the Giants' culture and signed a five-year, $90 million extension. Now, with new Giants manager Tony Vitello handling culture duties, Webb is better positioned to represent his country. The seven-year veteran finished the 2025 MLB season fourth in NL Cy Young Award voting, posting a 15-11 record, a 3.22 ERA, and leading MLB with 207 innings pitched and 34 starts.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Robinson Canó Makes Emotional Citi Field Return in Dominican Republic's Exhibition Win

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MLB veteran Robinson Canó made an emotional return to Citi Field on Saturday, participating in the "RD-PR Showdown" exhibition game between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico winter leagues. The 17-year veteran, who played for the Mets from 2019-22, went 1-for-3 with a double and a walk for the Dominican Republic before being replaced in the seventh inning. The game was billed as a tribute to Canó, with every Dominican team member wearing his No. 24. He fought back tears, tipping his cap to the crowd and embracing teammates, stating, “Coming back here again and being able to play again means a lot to me... this day will have a special place in my heart.” The Dominican Republic ultimately won the contest 6-2.

Enrique Hernández Undergoes Elbow Surgery, Misses WBC; Dodgers Reunion Possible

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Free-agent utility player Enrique Hernández recently underwent surgery on his left elbow to repair an injury that plagued him throughout the summer, initially sustained in May and leading to a bone fracture from playing through it. As a result, Hernández, 34, will miss next spring's World Baseball Classic, where he was slated to play for Puerto Rico. No specific timetable for his return has been provided. Despite struggling in 2023 with a .203/.255/.366 slash line (72 OPS+), 10 home runs, and 35 RBIs in 92 games, he was a key contributor during the Dodgers' World Series run, appearing in 17 contests with 7 RBIs. There is mutual interest in a reunion with the Los Angeles Dodgers, which would mark his 10th season with the franchise. Hernández, who holds the Dodgers' all-time playoff appearance record, boasts career stats of .236/.305/.403 (91 OPS+) over 12 seasons, accumulating nearly 18 WAR while playing various defensive positions.

Diamondbacks Weighing Trade Possibility for All-Star Second Baseman Ketel Marte

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The Arizona Diamondbacks are reportedly considering trading All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte as they look to address significant pitching needs this offseason. With Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly entering free agency, the team requires at least two new starters, and free agency costs are expected to be high given their projected 2026 payroll commitments of around $145 million. While GM Mike Hazen is open to trading top prospects like Jordan Lawlar or Ryan Waldschmidt, prospects are not as highly valued as in previous years. Marte, still in his prime and on an affordable $91 million contract through 2030 with a 2031 player option, represents a significant trade asset. Although a trade is deemed "possible, but not likely" due to the need for a blockbuster return, his value makes him a prime candidate to acquire the top-tier pitching Arizona desperately needs.

Phillies Not Expected to Re-Sign Free-Agent Left-Hander Ranger Suárez

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The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly not expected to re-sign free-agent left-hander Ranger Suárez this offseason. This decision comes as the team also anticipates being without ace Zack Wheeler, who is recovering from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery, at the onset of next season. Despite these potential pitching losses, Phillies executive Dave Dombrowski stated that acquiring another top-market starter is not the team's highest priority, though they acknowledge the need for starting pitching depth. Suárez's departure would impact the rotation, which is currently projected to feature Cristopher Sánchez, Jesús Luzardo, Aaron Nola, Taijuan Walker, and prospect Andrew Painter.

Friday, November 14, 2025

Ketel Marte Emerges as Prime Trade Target for Red Sox, Mariners, and Tigers

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Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte is a prime trade candidate, offering a star switch-hitter in his prime on a team-friendly contract ($92 million over five seasons, 2031 player option). The two-time Silver Slugger, who posted 10 DRS at second base in 2024 and has a career 121 OPS+, can also play shortstop and center field. Following Arizona's disappointing season, Marte is drawing interest from playoff-caliber teams. The Boston Red Sox see him as a veteran complement, potentially offering Mikey Romero, Hunter Dobbins, and Jhostynxon Garcia. The Seattle Mariners, Marte's original team, could offer Cole Young and Emerson Hancock for a permanent second base solution, despite possibly prioritizing current infielders. The Detroit Tigers view Marte as an offensive upgrade over Gleyber Torres, potentially trading Max Clark and Colt Keith to bolster their World Series contention. Marte's clutch 2023 postseason performance (2 HR, 11 RBIs, .329/.380/.534 in 17 games) highlights his value.

Stephen Vogt Finalizes Guardians Coaching Staff, Emphasizing Player Development and Familiar Faces

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Cleveland Guardians skipper Stephen Vogt has completed his coaching staff, appointing Tony Arnerich as bench coach and Andy McKay as field coordinator. Vogt humorously acknowledged the physical resemblance between himself and Arnerich, joking it was a factor in the hiring. Both Arnerich and McKay previously worked with Vogt in Seattle; Arnerich was a hitting coach and McKay an assistant general manager for the Mariners. Vogt conducted a thorough search, reviewing over 30 candidates for each position, before selecting his former colleagues. He underscored the importance of continuous player development at the Major League level for the young Guardians roster and expressed confidence in his staff's ability to foster growth. Vogt also celebrated former colleague Craig Albernaz's new role as Orioles manager.

Alex Bregman Enters Free Agency Seeking Long-Term Deal After Opting Out of Red Sox Contract

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Alex Bregman, a three-time All-Star and two-time world champion, is back on the free-agent market for his age-32 season, seeking a long-term, rest-of-his-career contract after opting out of a three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox. He is willing to accept a lesser annual salary for a longer commitment. His 2025 season with Boston started strong, batting .299/.385/.553 over 51 games before a strained quad on May 23. After returning before the All-Star break, his production waned in late August, finishing with an .821 OPS (128 OPS+). Bregman, known for his steady hitting (123 OPS+ over six seasons, 13.4% career strikeout rate) and above-average defense at third base, is considered the top long-term third baseman available. Potential fits include the Red Sox, Tigers, Mets, Yankees, Cubs, and Mariners, with a projected floor of $140 million over five years, and a specific prediction of six years, $168 million with the Mets.

Paul Skenes-to-Yankees Rumor Generates Significant MLB Buzz

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Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes recently became the subject of a high-profile rumor linking him to a potential move to the New York Yankees. This report quickly made headlines and generated considerable discussion within the baseball community, highlighting the significant interest surrounding the young talent and the potential impact of such a move. The speculation surfaced during a period of end-of-year MLB awards announcements and other significant league news.

Aaron Judge Repeats as AL MVP, Edging Out Cal Raleigh in Tight Race

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New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge secured his third American League MVP award, narrowly prevailing over Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh in a fiercely contested race. Despite Raleigh's historic 2025 season, which saw him hit 60 home runs—an unprecedented feat for a catcher—Judge's consistently incredible performance could not be overlooked, ultimately earning him the prestigious honor for the second consecutive time.

Shohei Ohtani Secures Fourth Unanimous MVP, Eyes Barry Bonds' Record

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Shohei Ohtani unanimously claimed his fourth MVP award, marking his second consecutive in the National League and third overall since 2023. This historic achievement places him second only to Barry Bonds' record of seven MVPs, with experts believing his unique two-way skill set makes catching Bonds highly probable. In the past season (2025), Ohtani delivered a career-high 55 home runs with a .282 average and an NL-leading 1.014 OPS. He also successfully returned to the mound after his second UCL surgery, posting a 1-1 record with a 2.87 ERA in 14 starts, and is expected to reach new pitching heights in 2026. Since joining the Dodgers on a 10-year, $700 million deal, he has won two league MVPs and two World Series championships, solidifying his status as the world's best player with five All-Star selections, three Silver Slugger Awards, and the 2018 AL Rookie of the Year.

Roman Anthony Headlines Young Core as Red Sox Eye Extended Contention Window

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Outfielder Roman Anthony is identified as a key component, headlining the impressive young core that is expected to keep the Boston Red Sox in contention for the foreseeable future. The team, coming off a Wild Card Series loss to the Yankees, is projected for an extended run of contention starting in 2025, with more talent on the way and financial capacity to spend. Despite having a logjam of outfielders, including Ceddanne Rafaela, Wilyer Abreu, Jarren Duran, and Jhostynxon Garcia, Anthony is considered untouchable and "going nowhere," indicating his central role in the Red Sox's long-term plans. The team's chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow, emphasized the need to avoid complacency despite the promising outlook.

Jacob deGrom Named AL Comeback Player of the Year After Stellar Return

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Texas Rangers pitcher Jacob deGrom, a 37-year-old right-hander, has been voted the American League Comeback Player of the Year. This prestigious award follows his impressive return to the mound after undergoing Tommy John surgery in June 2023. DeGrom made three starts near the end of the 2024 season and, in the current year, posted a remarkable 12-8 record with a 2.97 ERA and 185 strikeouts across 172 2/3 innings. His dominant performance also earned him his fifth career All-Star selection, solidifying his successful comeback.

Corbin Carroll Added to Stacked Team USA Roster for 2026 World Baseball Classic

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Outfielder Corbin Carroll (AZ) has been named to the Team USA roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, alongside Pete Crow-Armstrong (Chicago Cubs). Carroll, a highly-touted talent, posted 5.8 WAR last season with a .259 batting average, .343 on-base percentage, and .541 slugging percentage, contributing 31 home runs, 84 RBI, 107 runs, and 32 stolen bases. He has previously finished in the top five of MVP voting and has experience playing right field and some left field. His addition bolsters the speed and overall talent of the Team USA squad, which also includes Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, and Paul Skenes, under manager Mark DeRosa.

Pete Crow-Armstrong and Corbin Carroll Join Team USA for 2026 World Baseball Classic

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Outfielders Pete Crow-Armstrong (Chicago Cubs) and Corbin Carroll (AZ) have been announced as additions to the Team USA roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. This duo brings significant speed to the USA outfield. Carroll, who posted 5.8 WAR last season with a .259/.343/.541 slash line, 31 home runs, and 32 stolen bases, has a top-five MVP finish and has played primarily right field with some left field experience. Crow-Armstrong, in his age-23 season, achieved a .247/.287/.481 line with 31 home runs, 95 RBI, 35 stolen bases, and 6.0 WAR, becoming the first Cubs player with 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases since Sammy Sosa. He is also recognized as one of baseball's best defensive players, tying for the top spot in Statcast's 'outs above average' metric. They will join previously announced players Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, and Paul Skenes on the roster managed by Mark DeRosa.

Tarik Skubal's Future Dominates Offseason Talk Amidst Cy Young Success and Blockbuster Trade Rumors

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Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, turning 29 next week, is at the center of offseason trade speculation as he approaches his walk year before 2026 free agency. The left-hander recently secured his second consecutive American League Cy Young Award, boasting a 2.30 ERA (180 ERA+) and a 6.90 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 62 starts in the last two seasons, accumulating 13 Wins Above Replacement. Despite his elite performance, Tigers owner Chris Ilitch has expressed little optimism about a long-term extension. While an extension or delaying a decision until next summer are options, a trade is considered least desirable for Detroit. However, several teams are positioned to make a blockbuster offer, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Seattle Mariners, Boston Red Sox, and Baltimore Orioles, all possessing the prospect capital and, in most cases, financial means to acquire and potentially extend the two-time Cy Young winner. Skubal is seen as a realistic threat to become the first pitcher since Greg Maddux to win three consecutive Cy Youngs.

Luis Robert Jr. Trade Debate: Mets Weigh Risk vs. Reward for White Sox Outfielder

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The Mets are considering a trade for White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr., a move that presents both significant pros and cons. Robert Jr. is an exceptional athlete with elite tools, demonstrated by his 2023 MVP-caliber season where he posted an .857 OPS with 38 home runs. Despite a statistically disappointing 2025 season (.661 OPS), advanced metrics suggest potential for offensive improvement, with a strong July/August showing (.808 OPS) before a hamstring injury ended his season. His contract includes $20 million for 2026 and a $20 million club option for 2027. Defensively, he is a plus center fielder (+7 OAA in range, 93rd percentile) with 90th percentile sprint speed. However, concerns linger about his injury history, having missed significant time in all but his 2023 season, playing only 210 of 324 games over the last two years. Acquiring him could also block prospects like Carson Benge or Jett Williams. The Mets might acquire him for a surplus infielder like Mark Vientos or Ronny Mauricio plus a mid-level prospect, but this conflicts with David Stearns' stated intention to allow young players like Benge an opportunity.

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Shohei Ohtani Secures Fourth Unanimous MVP, Leads Dodgers to World Series Title

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Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani has clinched his fourth Major League MVP award, marking his third consecutive win and fourth overall. The 31-year-old, known as a pitcher who hits home runs, was unanimously named the National League's best player, receiving all 30 first-place votes. Ohtani's dominant season included hitting 55 home runs for the Dodgers and playing a crucial role in their second straight World Series victory, sweeping the Toronto Blue Jays. He is now second on the all-time MVP list and the first player to win the award in both the American League (2021, 2023 with Angels) and National League. Ohtani expressed his focus on team success, stating, "If I'm playing well as an individual that means I'm helping the team win." His historic achievements include rewriting history to send the Dodgers to the World Series and making MLB 50-50 history, solidifying his potential as one of the best ever.