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MLB News

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

Friday, September 26, 2025

Clay Holmes Named Mets' Saturday Starter Amidst Bullpen Flexibility for Crucial Series

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New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed on Friday that Clay Holmes will take the mound as the Saturday starter for their crucial weekend series against the Marlins. This decision comes just days after Holmes pitched an inning out of the bullpen in Chicago, with Mendoza noting his ability to "bounce back" from a recent mixed-results outing against the Cubs. The Mets are keeping their bullpen options open, with Sean Manaea potentially piggybacking off Holmes' start, a strategy previously successful against the Padres. The team emphasized a "one day at a time" approach for their pitching plans, focusing on the immediate game.

Trevor McDonald Continues September Surge with Dominant 10-Strikeout Performance for Giants

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Trevor McDonald delivered his second consecutive strong outing on Friday, striking out 10 batters and walking none over seven innings in the team's 6-3 win against the Colorado Rockies. McDonald, who was called up last week despite being on the 40-man roster all year, continued his impressive September surge. He recorded 18 swinging strikes, tying for the eighth-most by a Giants starter this season. The lone blemish was a hung curveball that resulted in a home run. His recent performances, including a strong start at Dodger Stadium five days prior, have significantly improved his standing for next spring, potentially earning him a bullpen job.

All-Star Kyle Tucker Returns to Cubs Lineup After Calf Injury Ahead of Playoffs

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All-Star Kyle Tucker has officially rejoined the Chicago Cubs lineup, making his anticipated return against the Cardinals. This significant development follows his activation from the injured list, where he had been sidelined due to a calf issue. Tucker's rejoining of the team, confirmed on September 26, 2025, provides a timely boost for the Cubs, especially as they prepare for the upcoming playoffs. His presence as an All-Star is expected to be a crucial factor for the team's performance in the postseason, bolstering their roster at a critical juncture.

Bryce Harper Concludes Regular Season on a High Note with Phillies

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Bryce Harper, representing the Philadelphia Phillies, is noted for concluding the regular season on a high. As the MLB season winds down on the last Friday of September 2025, Harper is highlighted in discussions around best bets, suggesting strong performance or expectations for the final games. While specific details of his recent play are not elaborated in the article content, the headline indicates a positive finish to his individual regular season campaign, positioning him as a player to watch as the postseason approaches.

Cal Raleigh Hits Historic 60th Homer, Secures AL West Title for Mariners

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh achieved a monumental milestone on September 24, 2025, hitting his historic 60th home run of the season against Colorado Rockies reliever Angel Chivilli. This 389-foot blast, his second long ball of the night, made him only the seventh player in MLB history to reach the 60-homer mark. The momentous occasion was followed by a heartwarming story: the fan who caught the ball, Glenn Mutti-Driscoll, generously gifted it to 12-year-old Marcus Rueblos, who then ensured the ball was returned to Raleigh. In exchange, Marcus received a signed bat and a batting practice invitation, while Mutti-Driscoll also met Raleigh and received a signed bat. Raleigh's two homers that night were crucial in the Mariners' 9-2 victory over the Rockies, clinching the American League West Division title for Seattle, their first since 2001.

Juan Soto Emerges as a Top Home Run Prop Bet for Friday, September 26th

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New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto has been identified as one of the best bets for home run player props on Friday, September 26th. The Inside the Lines team, known for dishing out nightly home run bets and reporting a successful season up almost 30 units, has included Soto in their top recommendations. This highlights Soto's potential for a significant offensive performance, making him a key player to watch for those following daily free picks across various sports.

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Brett Baty's All-Around Performance Earns Praise, Playing Like Everyday Player

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Mets third baseman Brett Baty delivered a standout performance in the 8-5 victory over the Cubs, highlighted by a crucial three-run home run off southpaw Shota Imanaga, which provided a six-run cushion. Beyond his offensive contribution, Baty also impressed with a nifty barehanded defensive play in the third inning. Manager Carlos Mendoza lauded Baty's growth, stating he "feels like he’s an everyday player at this level," noting his confidence and joy. Over his last 15 games, Baty is hitting .289 with a .333 OBP and .533 slugging percentage. His success against left-handers is particularly notable, slashing .247/.301/.377 with a .678 OPS, a testament to his approach of "not trying to do too much."

Francisco Lindor Joins Elite 30-30 Club for Second Time in Career

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New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor achieved a significant career milestone, joining the exclusive 30-30 club for the second time after hitting his 30th home run of the season. This solo shot contributed to the Mets' 8-5 win over the Chicago Cubs. Lindor's accomplishment, paired with 30 stolen bases, marks a historic moment for the 2025 Mets, as he and Juan Soto are only the third pair of teammates to achieve 30-30 seasons simultaneously. It also signifies the first time in franchise history that three players (Lindor, Soto, and Pete Alonso) have hit 30 home runs in a single season. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Lindor as an "elite player," while Lindor humbly credited his "good teammates."

Nolan McLean's Gritty 11-Strikeout Performance Keeps Mets' Playoff Hopes Alive

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New York Mets rookie right-hander Nolan McLean delivered a pivotal, albeit imperfect, performance on September 26, 2025, striking out a career-high 11 batters over 5.1 innings in an 8-5 road win against the Cubs. This crucial outing kept the Mets' postseason hopes alive, securing sole possession of the NL's third wild-card spot. McLean was responsible for all five runs, including two solo homers to Seiya Suzuki and Dansby Swanson, and a three-run blast by Suzuki that ended his night at 94 pitches. Despite the blemishes, manager Carlos Mendoza praised McLean's poise, adjustments, and effective use of his cutter. The 24-year-old, making just his eighth MLB start, received significant run support and 3.2 scoreless innings from the bullpen. McLean boasts a stellar 2.06 ERA with 57 strikeouts across 48 innings this season. He remains eligible for rookie status next season, a factor the Mets are considering as they plan to keep him fresh for a potential Wild Card series.

Retiring Dodgers Legend Clayton Kershaw Reflects on Final Division Title Celebration

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All-time great pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who recently announced his retirement after the 2025 season, celebrated his 12th NL West title with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Following an 8-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday, Kershaw expressed that he will miss the camaraderie and working towards a common goal with his teammates more than anything else. An 11-time All-Star and three-time Cy Young Award winner, Kershaw won his first of 14 division titles as a rookie in 2008. The Dodgers, who won the World Series last season, secured their 12th NL West title in 13 years, marking a poignant moment for the veteran left-hander.

Freddie Freeman's Two-Homer Performance Powers Dodgers to NL West Title

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First baseman Freddie Freeman delivered a stellar performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers, hitting two home runs and driving in three RBIs during their 8-0 shutout victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday. Freeman's homers, including one back-to-back with Andy Pages, were instrumental in propelling the Dodgers to clinch their 12th NL West title in 13 years. With these two long balls, Freeman now has 23 home runs on the season. His offensive contributions were a significant part of the team's dominant win, which secured their fourth consecutive division championship and highlighted their strong form.

Shohei Ohtani Blasts 54th Home Run, Matches Career High as Dodgers Clinch Division

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Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani matched his career high with his 54th home run of the season, a two-run shot that dramatically splashed into Chase Field’s swimming pool during Thursday's 8-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. This powerful hit gave Ohtani 101 RBIs for the season and contributed to his big league-high 144 runs scored. His impressive performance was a key factor as the Dodgers clinched their 12th NL West title in 13 years, securing their fourth straight division championship. Ohtani's consistent power and run production continue to be a cornerstone of the World Series champion Dodgers' success.

Seattle Mariners Seek Fan Who Gifted Cal Raleigh's 60th Home Run Ball

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The Seattle Mariners are making a public appeal to locate the man who, on Wednesday night in Seattle, gave Cal Raleigh's 60th home run ball to a young 12-year-old fan. This gesture, involving a significant milestone for Raleigh, has prompted the team to seek a connection with the generous individual. The Mariners' initiative underscores the special nature of Raleigh's achievement and the heartwarming interaction between the fan and the young boy, as they aim to acknowledge the fan's sportsmanship.

Cade Horton's Back Injury Puts Playoff Status in Question for Chicago Cubs

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Chicago Cubs starter Cade Horton's status for the upcoming wild-card playoff series against the Padres is currently in doubt due to a back injury. Despite Horton's 'adamant' insistence that he is capable of pitching, the Cubs organization is still in the process of evaluating the full extent of his injury. This ongoing assessment leaves his potential participation in the crucial playoff series uncertain, creating a significant concern for the team as they prepare for postseason play and await further medical updates.

Giancarlo Stanton's Clutch Three-Run Double Secures Yankees' Sweep, Earns MVP

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Giancarlo Stanton delivered a pivotal performance for the New York Yankees on Thursday night, despite entering the game with a challenging September, batting just .175 with 35 strikeouts through his first two at-bats. In the fifth inning, the veteran slugger broke a 3-1 deficit by ripping a 109 mph three-run double down the left-field line off reliever Tyler Gilbert. This crucial hit, which was misplayed by Curtis Mead, put the Yankees ahead 4-3. Stanton's heroics were instrumental in securing a 5-3 victory and a much-needed sweep over the White Sox, helping the Yankees remain tied atop the AL East. He was named Game MVP for his decisive contribution and also drew a leadoff walk in the seventh, leading to another Yankees run.

Kenley Jansen's Stellar Season with Angels Underscores Missed Dodgers Reunion Opportunity

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Kenley Jansen, currently pitching for the Los Angeles Angels, is having a stellar season with a 2.64 ERA and converting 28 of 29 save opportunities, not having given up a hit in over a month as of late September 2025. The veteran closer, who played for the Dodgers from 2010-21 and the Braves in 2022, missed the postseason for the first time in 11 years in 2023. He expressed how difficult it is to reach the playoffs, appreciating the Dodgers' consistent success. Jansen declined to watch the Dodgers' playoff opener, telling his family, "I’m not on the Dodgers anymore." There was a missed opportunity for the Dodgers to acquire Jansen, who would have been their most reliable right-handed reliever, but the Angels did not sell at the trade deadline. Jansen is set to begin his offseason workouts on Wednesday, following the article's publication.

Reds' Nick Lodolo Strikes Out 12 Before Exiting with Groin Injury

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Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Lodolo delivered a dominant performance on September 25, 2025, striking out 12 batters in a crucial game against the Pirates. Despite his strong outing, Lodolo exited the game with a groin injury. The Reds ultimately secured a victory, pulling them within a half-game of the New York Mets for the final National League wild-card spot, highlighting the significance of Lodolo's contribution before his departure.

Taijuan Walker Impresses in Relief, Shows Increased Velocity for Phillies

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Taijuan Walker entered the game in the sixth inning, replacing Walker Buehler, as part of manager Rob Thomson's planned piggyback strategy. Despite allowing the first two hitters to reach base, Walker quickly shut down the Miami Marlins' threat with a fly ball and two strikeouts, then retired them again in the seventh. Manager Rob Thomson noted Walker's velocity was up, touching 94 mph, and his split-finger fastball was effective, leading to three encouraging strikeouts and missing bats for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Walker Buehler Battles Through Five Innings, Earns Win in Phillies' Series Victory

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Phillies starter Walker Buehler made his second start of the season, battling through five tough innings against the Miami Marlins on Thursday. Despite struggling early with command, walking two in the first, he managed to secure the win, allowing three hits, three walks, and striking out two. Buehler has now given up just one earned run in 13 innings with the Philadelphia Phillies. He considered the outing a 'huge step forward,' particularly with his changeup, and expressed readiness for any role in the playoffs, emphasizing his commitment to winning a world title.

Noelvi Marte's Game-Saving Robbery Fuels Reds' Playoff Push

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On September 25, 2025, Cincinnati Reds infielder Noelvi Marte delivered a spectacular defensive highlight, robbing the Pittsburgh Pirates of a game-tying home run. This crucial play directly contributed to the Reds' ongoing fight for the last National League playoff spot. Marte's heroics underscore the team's determination as they battle down to the wire in the competitive NL wild card race, keeping their postseason aspirations alive with a pivotal moment of individual brilliance.