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Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Josh Hader Advances Shoulder Recovery, Throws Off Mound Three Times

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Houston Astros general manager Dana Brown confirmed on Wednesday that closer Josh Hader has made notable progress in his recovery from a shoulder issue. Brown stated that Hader has already thrown off a mound three times, a detail reported by Chandler Rome of The Athletic. This update is a positive indicator for the left-handed reliever, suggesting he is effectively moving through his rehabilitation program and is on schedule to prepare for the upcoming season.

Guardians' Emmanuel Clase Implicated in Pitch Rigging Scandal as Teammate Pleads Not Guilty

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Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase has been implicated in a significant pitch rigging scandal, facing charges alongside teammate Luis Ortiz. The allegations state that Clase and Ortiz accepted bribes to assist gamblers in winning bets placed on pitches they threw, directly influencing game outcomes. This development comes as Ortiz recently entered a plea of not guilty to these serious charges. The situation casts a shadow over the Guardians' pitching staff, with both players central to the ongoing investigation into the integrity of the game.

Giants Ace Logan Webb Finishes Fourth in NL Cy Young Voting, Earns Gold Glove

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San Francisco Giants ace Logan Webb concluded an impressive 2025 MLB season by finishing fourth in the National League Cy Young Award voting, accumulating 47 points. The right-hander, who will turn 29 next week, led MLB with 207 innings pitched and achieved a career-high 224 strikeouts, becoming the first Giant since 1944 to lead the NL in both categories. Webb was listed on over half of the 30 ballots, receiving 10 third-place votes, placing him behind unanimous winner Paul Skenes, Christopher Sánchez of the Phillies, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Dodgers. This marks his third top-six finish in the past three seasons (second, sixth, fourth). Earlier in the month, Webb also secured his first NL Gold Glove Award for pitchers, highlighting his all-around stellar performance.

Tommy Edman to Undergo Ankle Surgery, Dodgers Utility Player Eyes Spring Training Return

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Los Angeles Dodgers utility player Tommy Edman is scheduled for right ankle surgery, general manager Brandon Gomes announced. Edman has been dealing with ankle issues since midway through the 2024 season, initially with St. Louis before being traded to the Dodgers in July. Despite the ongoing discomfort, he played through the season, was traded to the Dodgers in July, and ultimately earned NL Championship Series MVP honors. In the 2025 World Series victory over Toronto, Edman batted .143 but made crucial defensive plays at second base and center field. He signed a five-year, $74 million contract last offseason and is expected to be ready for spring training.

Stephen Vogt Wins Second Consecutive AL Manager of the Year Award

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Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt has been named the American League Manager of the Year for the second consecutive season, receiving 17 of 30 first-place votes. This marks a repeat of his 2024 honor, a feat previously achieved by Tampa Bay's Kevin Cash in 2020-2021. Vogt led Cleveland to a second straight AL Central title, overcoming a significant deficit after trailing Detroit by 15 1/2 games in early July. The Guardians' remarkable comeback, including a 10-game losing streak from June 26 to July 6, culminated in clinching the division on the final day, marking the largest in-season comeback in MLB history. Vogt emphasized a 'win today' mantra to his team during their resilient stretch. The team's performance in September occurred after closer Emmanuel Clase and pitcher Luis Ortiz were placed on paid leave due to a sports betting investigation. Vogt, who played 10 seasons in the majors before retiring in 2022, was hired by Cleveland in November 2023 after a stint as Seattle's bullpen coach.

Byron Buxton Weighs Potential Changes Amidst MLB Hot Stove Rumors

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Byron Buxton is reportedly considering potential changes as the MLB hot stove season gets underway. While specific details regarding the nature of these considerations are not provided, his name is being mentioned in the context of offseason speculation. This suggests that Buxton's situation is being monitored by various parties, and potential future developments could be on the horizon for the player. The timing of these considerations aligns with the broader MLB offseason news cycle.

Ketel Marte Trade Talks Heat Up Amidst MLB Hot Stove Rumors

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Trade talks involving Ketel Marte are reportedly picking up, indicating significant interest from teams like the Dodgers and Mets. This development is part of the ongoing MLB hot stove season, with speculation surrounding player movements and potential team strategies. The Arizona Diamondbacks player is a key figure in these early discussions, suggesting a potential shift in his team affiliation as the offseason progresses. Further details on the specifics of these trade discussions are expected as the hot stove period continues.

Aaron Judge and Yankees Aim for 2026 World Series Title

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As Aaron Judge heads into his 11th MLB season, the New York Yankees are focused on their quest to win a World Series in 2026. Judge, a key player for the Yankees, has yet to secure a championship ring in his career. The team's strategy and player acquisitions throughout the offseason will be crucial in determining their success in achieving this goal. The article highlights the team's ongoing efforts to build a roster capable of contending for a championship around their star player.

Kyle Tucker Explores Free Agency Options if He Departs Chicago Cubs

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Star outfielder Kyle Tucker is considering his options as a free agent, with speculation focusing on the best potential fits should he decide to leave the Chicago Cubs. The discussion centers on various MLB teams that could pursue the talented player if he enters the market, highlighting his status as a sought-after outfielder.

Bryce Harper and Dave Dombrowski Mend Relationship After Executive's 'Hurtful' Comments

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Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper and President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski have had a "nice conversation" to smooth over recent tensions. Harper expressed feeling "hurt" and "uncomfortable" by Dombrowski's public comments questioning his ability to return to elite form after a statistically down 2025 season, where he played 132 games, hitting 27 home runs, recording 75 RBI, and batting .261 with an .844 OPS, which he attributed to a wrist injury. Dombrowski clarified his remarks, emphasizing the Phillies' commitment to Harper, stating trade rumors were "further from the truth" and that he expects better years from the eight-time All-Star. Harper, who has six years left on his contract, indicated openness to moving back to the outfield, but Dombrowski prefers to keep him at first base, where he has performed well and continues to improve.

Mets Weighing Pros and Cons of Signing Slugger Kyle Schwarber

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Kyle Schwarber, a free agent this offseason and considered the second-best pure designated hitter behind Shohei Ohtani, is being considered by the New York Mets. Schwarber is coming off a strong 2025 season, slashing .240/.365/.563 with 56 home runs and 132 RBIs, earning him an MVP finalist nod. He has consistently hit over 38 home runs in the last four seasons and ranks second in baseball with 187 home runs in that span. His advanced metrics show elite performance in exit velocity, barrel percentage, hard-hit rate, bat speed, and walk percentage. However, concerns remain about his career .231 batting average, particularly if he hits near the Mendoza line while striking out frequently on a long-term, high-value contract. His role as a full-time DH also limits lineup flexibility, especially if Pete Alonso departs. The Mets face a decision point, with Schwarber's market likely more defined than Alonso's, potentially requiring a swift move to secure a proven slugger.

Devin Williams: Dodgers Show Mutual Interest Amidst Yankees' Payroll Concerns

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have expressed interest in signing free agent pitcher Devin Williams, with reports indicating mutual interest. Williams, who struggled in his first season with the Yankees posting a 4.79 ERA and 1.12 WHIP over 62.0 innings, still showcased elite strikeout ability with a 13.1 K/9 rate. His potential departure, alongside fellow free agent Luke Weaver, leaves the Yankees' bullpen in an uncertain state. This pursuit comes as the Yankees' ownership reiterates a commitment to staying under a $300 million payroll, a figure considered unsustainable. Despite this, the team aims to re-sign Cody Bellinger, add relief pitching, a starting pitcher, and a right-handed bat, potentially fitting these moves within a high $200 million payroll, though room for significant acquisitions like Bellinger appears tight.

Shohei Ohtani Nears Fourth MVP in Five Years, Solidifying All-Time Great Status

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Los Angeles Dodgers' two-way sensation, Shohei Ohtani, is reportedly on the cusp of securing his fourth Most Valuable Player award within a remarkable five-year span. This incredible achievement places his current performance stretch among the most dominant runs in baseball history. Ohtani's consistent excellence as both a hitter and a pitcher has not only made him a cornerstone for the Dodgers but also sparked widespread discussion about where his unparalleled five-year stretch ultimately ranks against the sport's all-time greats. His impending fourth MVP further cements his legacy as one of baseball's most extraordinary talents.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Bryce Harper Holds 'Long Conversation' with Phillies President Dombrowski

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Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski recently confirmed a lengthy discussion with star player Bryce Harper. While Dombrowski did not elaborate on the specifics of their conversation, the interaction highlights ongoing communication between the team's leadership and its key slugger. The nature of their discussion remains private, but it signals engagement between Harper and the front office.

Stephen Vogt Repeats as AL Manager of the Year After Cleveland's Historic Finish

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Stephen Vogt has secured his second consecutive AL Manager of the Year award, a testament to his leadership with the Cleveland Guardians. His ability to maintain the belief of the Guardians team through a historic finish was a significant factor in swaying votes for the prestigious honor. This back-to-back recognition underscores Vogt's impact and success in guiding the Cleveland club.

Brewers Ace Freddy Peralta Likely Trade Candidate Amid Strong 2025 Season

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Milwaukee Brewers ace Freddy Peralta, 29, is reportedly a "likely" trade candidate this winter as he enters the final year of his club control before free agency. Brewers president Matt Arnold acknowledged significant interest in Peralta, stating the team can "never shut the door on anything" regarding players, despite wanting to compete with him next season. Peralta is coming off his best career season in 2025, leading the NL with 17 wins, posting a career-best 2.70 ERA, and recording 204 strikeouts in 33 starts. He holds a career 3.59 ERA over 162 starts in eight seasons with Milwaukee.

Aaron Judge Favored to Win Third AL MVP After Dominant 53-Homer Campaign

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New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge is widely expected to secure his third career AL MVP Award following an exceptional 2025 season. Judge posted a dominant .331/.457/.688 slash line, hitting 53 home runs, driving in 114 runs, and achieving a 215 OPS+ with 9.7 bWAR. While Cal Raleigh surpassed him in home runs and RBI, Judge's superior batting average and OPS are considered overwhelming factors. Judge, who was a unanimous MVP winner in 2024, is on an incredible run. His potential third MVP would mark the 23rd time a Yankees player has won the award, further solidifying the franchise's leading position in MVP history.

Cal Raleigh's Historic 60-Homer Season Puts Him in AL MVP Debate

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh delivered a historic 2025 season, hitting 60 home runs and driving in 125 runs, both single-season records for catchers and switch-hitters. His impressive stat line of .247/.359/.589 with a 169 OPS+ and 7.4 bWAR earned him a spot as an AL MVP finalist, battling Aaron Judge for the award. Despite Judge's higher batting average and OPS, Raleigh's power numbers and his demanding role behind the plate make his production MVP-worthy in most years. If Raleigh were to win, he would become only the third Mariners player to receive the award, joining franchise legends Ken Griffey Jr. (1997) and Ichiro Suzuki (2001).

Shohei Ohtani Poised for Historic Fourth MVP Award After Stellar Two-Way Season

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Shohei Ohtani is set to capture his fourth career MVP Award, his second in the National League, following a remarkable 2025 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. As a designated hitter, Ohtani posted a .282/.374/.582 slash line with 55 home runs, 102 RBI, a 179 OPS+, and 6.6 bWAR. He also made a modest pitching contribution after Tommy John surgery, going 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA and 62 strikeouts in 47 innings, adding 1.1 bWAR. Despite being "more beatable" than his historic 2024 season (54 HR, 59 SB, 130 RBI) and finishing with 20 steals after shoulder surgery, Ohtani's overall performance positions him to join Barry Bonds as the only player to win MVP three years in a row (2023-2025). He has won all three previous MVP awards unanimously and could make it a fourth, moving into second place on the all-time MVP list. This would mark the Dodgers' 14th MVP winner.

Dodgers Utility Player Tommy Edman Undergoes Ankle Surgery, Aims for Spring Training Return

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Los Angeles Dodgers utility player Tommy Edman is scheduled to undergo right ankle surgery next week. The procedure aims to address his ankle issue, with the expectation that he could be ready to participate in spring training. This development provides a timeline for Edman's recovery and potential return to the field, offering a positive outlook for his availability ahead of the upcoming season.