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MLB News

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

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Bryce Harper's Role as First Baseman Reaffirmed by Phillies GM

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Bryce Harper's defensive position remains a key topic for the Philadelphia Phillies, with President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski reiterating that the club views Harper as their everyday first baseman. Dombrowski stated they "really like our club with him there" and that Harper "continues to get better" at the position. This comes after Harper had previously indicated a willingness to return to the outfield if the Phillies acquired a significant bat at first base. Dombrowski and Harper reportedly had a "nice conversation" before the GM Meetings to clear the air regarding Dombrowski's earlier end-of-season remarks.

Edwin Díaz Puts Mets Return at 50-50 Amid Free Agency, Seeks Nine-Figure Deal

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Edwin Díaz, the Mets' All-Star closer, recently opted out of his record five-year, $102 million deal and stated his chances of returning to the New York Mets are "50-50." Speaking ahead of the 2025 MLB Awards in Las Vegas, where he accepted the Trevor Hoffman NL Reliever of the Year Award, Díaz praised the organization but indicated he's not interested in a discount and is ready to explore other options. He is reportedly seeking another nine-figure deal, similar to his previous contract. While his 2025 season was exceptional, earning him All-Star honors, his 2024 saw a 3.52 ERA with seven blown saves and a shoulder impingement, and he missed 2023 with a torn patellar tendon. Ranked No. 11 on Yahoo Sports' free agent list and the top reliever available, Díaz is expected to draw significant interest from teams beyond the Mets, posing a challenge for Mets owner Steve Cohen.

Mookie Betts Shines as Co-Host of 2025 MLB Awards, Demonstrating Versatility Beyond the Diamond

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Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts showcased his versatility by co-hosting the 2025 MLB Awards in Las Vegas, trading his uniform for a velvet suit. His teammate Will Smith highlighted Betts' confidence, which he brought to the stage alongside comedian Roy Wood Jr. This marked Betts' first awards show hosting gig, though he has prior experience with his Bleacher Report podcast, "On Base With Mookie Betts." Betts displayed natural banter and ease, drawing parallels to his successful transition from right field to shortstop this past season. During the event, he accepted the fifth consecutive Edgar Martínez Outstanding Designated Hitter Award on behalf of Shohei Ohtani. Betts playfully suggested he's ready to host the next MLB Awards solo, proving his range extends far beyond his decorated baseball career.

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

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Texas Rangers right-hander Jacob deGrom, 37, has been voted the American League Comeback Player of the Year. This prestigious award follows his remarkable return from Tommy John surgery in June 2023. After making three starts late in the 2024 season, deGrom delivered an outstanding performance this year, posting a 12-8 record with a 2.97 ERA and 185 strikeouts across 172 2/3 innings. His dominant season also earned him his fifth career All-Star selection, highlighting his successful recovery and significant impact on the Rangers' rotation.

Aaron Judge Named All-MLB First Team Outfielder and AL Hank Aaron Award Winner

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Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees had a stellar 2025 season, earning a spot on the All-MLB first team as an outfielder. Judge was also named MVP of his respective league for the second consecutive year, solidifying his status as one of baseball's premier players. His exceptional hitting prowess was further recognized with the AL Hank Aaron Award for best hitter, an honor he shared with Shohei Ohtani. These accolades underscore Judge's consistent high-level performance and significant contributions to the Yankees throughout the entire regular season.

Cal Raleigh Earns All-MLB First Team Honors and AL MVP Runner-Up Spot

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Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners had an incredible 2025 season, culminating in significant recognition. He was named to the All-MLB first team as a catcher, acknowledging his outstanding performance throughout the entire regular season. Raleigh also distinguished himself by being named the MVP runner-up in the American League, highlighting his impact and consistent excellence for the Mariners. His inclusion on the All-MLB first team places him among the league's elite players, recognized for his accomplishments over the full season.

Juan Soto Reflects on Coach Richardson's Departure, Credits Him for Baserunning Success

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Juan Soto expressed sadness over the departure of New York Mets 1B coach Antoan Richardson, who left to join the division rival Braves. Soto grew very close with Richardson during his first season with the Mets, crediting him significantly for his improved outfield defense and baserunning. With Richardson's help, Soto achieved a career-high 38 stolen bases, more than doubling his previous best of 12, and joined the exclusive 30-30 club. Soto stated, "Antoan did an unbelievable job. He’s been helping me since Day 1, so I give all of the credit to him." While sad, Soto acknowledged the business aspect of baseball, saying, "you’ve got to understand it’s a business at the end of the day." Richardson's impact extended beyond Soto, as the Mets ranked fifth in stolen bases as a team.

Starling Marte's Free Agency: Juan Soto Praises Veteran Outfielder's Leadership

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Veteran outfielder Starling Marte is a free agent after four seasons with the Mets, and teammate Juan Soto has publicly endorsed his return. Soto emphasized Marte's leadership and presence in the locker room, stating the team needs someone who helps through difficult periods. Despite his Mets tenure being marred by injuries, Marte was an All-Star in 2022 and contributed in 2025 as a bench hitter, slashing .270/.335/.410 with a .745 OPS, nine home runs, and 34 RBI in 98 games. The Mets' appetite to sign the 37-year-old remains unclear, but Soto's support is significant.

Pete Alonso's Free Agency: Juan Soto Hopes Mets Re-Sign All-Time HR Leader

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Pete Alonso is testing free agency for the second consecutive year, having opted out of his contract after a bounce-back 2025 season where he became the Mets' all-time leader in home runs. Mets teammate Juan Soto strongly advocated for Alonso's return, calling him "one of the best power hitters in this generation." Soto expressed his enjoyment playing with Alonso, noting their combined 81 home runs in 2025, and hoped for more opportunities to play together. Alonso had previously re-signed with the Mets in February but is now exploring his options again, with Soto's endorsement adding to his profile.

Mets Reportedly Fielding Trade Inquiries for Utility Infielder Jeff McNeil

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The New York Mets are reportedly fielding trade inquiries for veteran utility infielder Jeff McNeil as they look to retool their roster ahead of the 2026 season. McNeil, 33, recently underwent a procedure for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome but is expected to be ready for spring training, which may not deter interested teams. He is in the final guaranteed year of his contract, owed $15.75 million in 2026. McNeil had a solid 2025 season, slashing .243/.335/.411 with a .746 OPS over 122 games, his highest OPS since 2022. His versatility was a key asset, playing five different positions, including 79 games at second base and 34 in center field. However, president of baseball operations David Stearns anticipates McNeil will play less center field moving forward, given the Mets' stocked infield.

Kyle Schwarber Finishes Second in NL MVP Race After Leading League in Homers and RBIs

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Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber secured second place in the 2025 National League MVP voting, finishing behind unanimous winner Shohei Ohtani. Schwarber, a three-time All-Star, received 23 second-place votes. He had a standout season, leading the NL with 56 home runs and topping all of MLB with 132 RBIs. Schwarber played in all 162 games, anchoring a Phillies lineup that achieved 96 wins. His powerful offensive production made him a strong contender for the award, showcasing his consistent impact for the team.

Jackie Bradley Jr., 2018 World Series Champion, Joins Indianapolis Clowns in Banana Ball

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Former 11-year MLB veteran and 2018 World Series champion Jackie Bradley Jr. was the first overall pick in the inaugural Banana Ball player draft, committing to full-time participation with the Indianapolis Clowns. Bradley Jr., an All-Star in 2016 and Golden Glove winner in 2018, last played in MLB in 2023 with the Kansas City Royals. His decision was influenced by his daughter's love for Banana Ball and a successful appearance with the Savannah Bananas. Bradley Jr. expressed his desire to help grow the game and bridge pre-integration Black baseball to modern baseball through the historically significant Clowns, who once signed Hank Aaron. While not ruling out a potential MLB return if the opportunity is right for his family, he is content with his career and focused on his new role, which could set a trend for other former MLB players.

Guardians Star Emmanuel Clase Pleads Not Guilty to Pitch Rigging Conspiracy

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Cleveland Guardians star pitcher Emmanuel Clase, 27, pleaded not guilty Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Brooklyn federal court to charges of taking bribes to rig pitches. The three-time All-Star and Guardians' all-time saves leader was released on a $600,000 bond, surrendering his passport and agreeing to GPS monitoring, limited travel, and no gambling. Clase, who is on non-disciplinary paid leave since July due to an MLB investigation, is accused of accepting thousands to help gamblers win over $460,000 by providing pitch information and intentionally throwing balls. Prosecutors allege he began sharing info in 2023, sought payoffs this year, and even spoke to a bettor before an April Red Sox game, leading to an $11,000 win. His lawyer maintains his innocence, noting Clase voluntarily returned to the U.S. He is due back in court December 2, facing charges that carry up to 20 years in prison.

Devin Williams' 2025 Yankees ERA Misleading, Advanced Metrics Point to Strong Free Agency Demand

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Devin Williams' 4.79 ERA with the New York Yankees in 2025 doesn't tell the full story, as advanced metrics like xERA (3.09), FIP (2.68), and DRA (3.01) indicate he pitched closer to a 3.00 ERA. Entering free agency, Williams is expected to draw significant interest, with Dodgers rumors already circulating. Despite losing the closer's job briefly, he maintained a 34.7% strikeout rate (97th percentile) and his lowest walk rate since 2020 (9.7%). After a tough start (11.25 ERA in first 10 games), he rebounded with a 3.83 ERA over his final 57 appearances, including a dominant August (49% K-rate) and 13 consecutive scoreless outings, encompassing four postseason games. A major factor in his high ERA was poor inherited runner support; 70% of the 10 runners he left on base scored, more than double the MLB average. While his hard-hit rate increased and airbender changeup's barrel rate declined, his underlying performance suggests he remains a valuable asset.

Paul Skenes Denies Yankees Trade Rumors, Reaffirms Commitment to Pittsburgh Pirates

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Pittsburgh Pirates Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes addressed a recent NJ.com report suggesting he desires a trade to the New York Yankees and lacks confidence in the Pirates' ability to win. Skenes firmly denied the claims, stating, "I'm on the Pirates. My goal is to win with the Pirates. I love the city of Pittsburgh... I want to be a part of the group that did that." He added he doesn't know the source of the report. General Manager Ben Cherington previously confirmed Skenes will remain a Pirate in 2026. The 2023 No. 1 pick, under team control through 2029, won the 2025 NL Cy Young with a 1.97 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, 7.7 WAR, and 216 strikeouts in 187.2 innings. Despite the Pirates' recent struggles (71-91 in 2025), Skenes remains focused on winning in Pittsburgh.

Astros GM Dana Brown Indicates Cam Smith's Roster Spot Not Guaranteed for Next Season

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Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown indicated that rookie Cam Smith's roster spot for next season is not guaranteed, suggesting he "could begin next season at Triple-A Sugar Land 'if he hasn't turned the corner'." Brown expressed high hopes for Smith's potential, calling him a future "star," but emphasized the need for more consistency. Smith, who turns 23 in February, made the Opening Day roster after a strong spring training but finished his rookie campaign with a .236/.312/.358 slash line, nine home runs, and a 27.8 percent strikeout rate over 134 games. He saw limited playing time late in the season, starting only six of the final 20 games. Despite surprisingly solid play in right field, a new position for him, Smith's limited minor-league experience (32 games, 134 plate appearances) means further seasoning might benefit both him and the Astros, though he will have a chance to win a starting job in spring training.

Kyle Tucker's Agent Meets with Cubs Amidst Offseason Rumors

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Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer met with Kyle Tucker's agent, Casey Close, at the GM Meetings. Indications suggest Tucker may be in Chicago for only one year. The Cubs are reportedly set in center and left fields and have MLB-ready prospects for right field, but they are in need of at least one starting pitcher and potentially bullpen help. The Cubs may focus their free agent spending on their pitching staff. Close also represents other top free agents like Kyle Schwarber and Michael King.

Tarik Skubal Trade Rumors: Mets, Blue Jays, Cubs Emerge as Top Fits

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Detroit Tigers' Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal could be on the trade block this offseason due to a significant gap in extension talks and his impending free agency. If the Tigers entertain offers, the New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Chicago Cubs are identified as the three best fits. The Mets are considered the most likely destination, possessing the financial flexibility and farm system depth to acquire Skubal, potentially forming an elite rotation with Kodai Senga and filling a void that has plagued them despite high spending. The Blue Jays, whose rotation ranked 20th in MLB in ERA in 2025, could elevate their staff significantly by adding Skubal, complementing pitchers like Shane Bieber and Chris Bassitt. The Cubs, seeking to bolster a mixed rotation, see Skubal as an ace to compete in the NL Central, especially with potential free agents like Shota Imanaga and Michael Soroka. Skubal, who has won two consecutive AL ERA titles and led pitchers in WAR for two seasons, posted a 2.21 ERA and 0.89 WHIP in 195.1 innings during the 2025 regular season, followed by a 1.74 ERA and 0.68 WHIP in the postseason. Trade proposals for Skubal could involve prospects such as Ricky Tiedemann, Gage Stanifer, Arjun Nimmala for Toronto; Ethan Conrad, Moises Ballesteros, Jaxon Wiggins for Chicago; and Mark Vientos, Luisangel Acuna, Jonah Tong for New York.

Alex Bregman Opts Out, Weighs Free Agency Amidst Contract Predictions and Suitors

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All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman has opted out of the remaining two years and $80 million on his contract with the Boston Red Sox, entering free agency for the second consecutive offseason. Bregman, ranked as the second-best free agent available, demonstrated strong performance in 2025, slashing .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs and 28 doubles in 114 games, despite a quad injury that impacted his performance in the latter half of the season. He achieved career highs in average exit velocity (90.1 mph) and hard-hit rate (44.4%) at age 31, showcasing excellent plate discipline and contact skills. Defensively, he remains comfortably above average at third base. Concerns for potential suitors include his age (turning 32 in spring training) and the potential for decline, with projections suggesting a contract similar to Josh Donaldson's four-year, $90 million deal or Freddie Freeman's six-year, $162 million contract. The Red Sox, New York Mets, Detroit Tigers, and Toronto Blue Jays are identified as potential landing spots, with the Mets considering him as a significant offensive and defensive upgrade, potentially alongside Pete Alonso. Bregman's ability to perform in high-leverage situations and his leadership qualities are also noted strengths.

Bo Bichette: Yankees' Potential Shortstop Solution Amidst Volpe's Injury and Performance Concerns

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The New York Yankees are considering a significant offseason move for free agent shortstop Bo Bichette, as Anthony Volpe's performance and recent shoulder surgery raise questions about the position's future. Bichette enjoyed a strong bounce-back season in 2025, playing in 139 games and slashing .311/.357/.483 with an .840 OPS, setting career bests in average, OBP, and OPS. Despite a knee injury that limited his power numbers, he demonstrated improved plate discipline, walking 40 times and maintaining a strong strikeout percentage (86th percentile). His defense at shortstop is considered serviceable, and he proved capable of playing second base. However, signing Bichette would require substantial financial commitment, potentially impacting the Yankees' ability to pursue other free agents like Cody Bellinger, and his injury history, including a month-long knee issue in 2025 and missing half of 2024, is a concern. Bichette's defensive metrics have also been negative in most seasons. Despite these cons, the article argues the Yankees should pursue Bichette to upgrade their shortstop position, citing past misses on high-profile free agents.