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MLB News

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

Monday, September 22, 2025

Dodgers Eye Roki Sasaki for Playoff Bullpen Amidst Persistent Relief Struggles

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are exploring a potential playoff bullpen role for injured starting pitcher Roki Sasaki, a reflection of the team's ongoing relief struggles. Sasaki, who hasn't pitched in a major league game for over four months due to shoulder problems and posted a 4.72 ERA in eight starts, recently made two relief appearances for Triple-A Oklahoma City, touching 100 mph. He is set to rejoin the Dodgers for their upcoming series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, with his earliest availability on Wednesday. Manager Dave Roberts expressed uncertainty about immediately deploying Sasaki in high-leverage situations, given his limited big-league relief experience. With only six regular-season games remaining, Sasaki's audition for a postseason bullpen spot highlights the Dodgers' desperate search for late-inning solutions.

Sunday, September 21, 2025

Astros Pitcher Jason Alexander Gives Up Cal Raleigh's Record-Breaking 58th Home Run

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Houston Astros pitcher Jason Alexander was on the mound when Seattle Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh hit his MLB-leading 58th home run on Sunday night. Raleigh connected off Alexander for a two-run shot in the second inning, extending the Seattle Mariners' lead to 7-0. This particular home run by Raleigh was significant as it broke multiple MLB and franchise records, including surpassing Ken Griffey Jr.'s single-season mark and Mickey Mantle's switch-hitter record, making Alexander the pitcher on record for this historic moment.

J.P. Crawford's Grand Slam Ignites Mariners' Offense Against Astros

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Seattle Mariners infielder J.P. Crawford played a crucial role in the team's dominant performance against the Houston Astros. In the second inning, Crawford connected for a grand slam, immediately putting the Seattle Mariners ahead 5-0. This powerful hit provided a strong foundation for the Mariners' offense, setting the stage for Cal Raleigh's subsequent two-run home run that further extended their lead. His early offensive contribution was key in the Mariners' sweep of the Astros, helping Seattle take control of the AL West.

Cal Raleigh's Historic 58th Home Run Shatters Records, Propels Mariners to AL West Lead

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Seattle Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh continued his historic season, hitting his MLB-leading 58th home run on Sunday night, a two-run shot against Houston Astros pitcher Jason Alexander. This monumental blast, which came after J.P. Crawford's grand slam, not only extended the Mariners' lead but also set multiple records. Raleigh surpassed Ken Griffey Jr.'s franchise single-season mark of 56 homers, Mickey Mantle's MLB record of 54 for a switch-hitter, and Salvador Perez's 48 for a catcher. With 58 homers, Raleigh is now five ahead of Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber. His consistent power, including another recent homer, was instrumental in the Seattle Mariners sweeping the Houston Astros, giving them a three-game lead in the AL West with six games left in the season.

Sean Manaea Pitches in Mets' Critical Loss, Team Falls into Wild-Card Tie

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Sean Manaea and the New York Mets experienced a challenging Sunday at Citi Field, enduring a 3-2 loss to the Washington Nationals. This defeat concluded what was described as an 'ugly weekend' for the team. The outcome of Manaea's outing, combined with a 1-0 victory by the Cincinnati Reds over the Chicago Cubs, has significant implications for the Mets' postseason aspirations. As of the article published on September 22, 2025, the New York Mets are now tied with Cincinnati for the final National League wild-card position, highlighting the critical nature of their recent performance.

Ben Rice's Grand Slam and Five-RBI Outburst Powers Yankees to Crucial Win

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New York Yankees' Ben Rice delivered a game-changing performance on Sunday, hitting a tiebreaking grand slam in the top of the 10th inning to secure a 7-1 victory over the Baltimore Orioles. This pivotal hit, off Keegan Akin, was part of a dominant day for Rice, who finished with four hits and five runs batted in. Earlier in the game, he also contributed an RBI single. The grand slam, the Yankees' ninth of the year, helped New York stay two games behind the Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East race. Rice's heroics came after a close call, as he hit a foul dribbler just before clearing the bases, demonstrating his clutch ability under pressure. The Yankees are off Monday before Luis Gil takes the mound Tuesday against the Chicago White Sox.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Drives in Two as Blue Jays Clinch AL Playoff Spot

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Vladimir Guerrero Jr. played a pivotal role in the Toronto Blue Jays' significant achievement on September 21, 2025, as they secured the first American League playoff berth of the season. Guerrero Jr. contributed two crucial runs, helping his team clinch their spot in the postseason. This performance underscores his importance to the Blue Jays as they became the first AL team to punch their ticket to the playoffs, highlighting a strong and successful season for the Toronto club.

Jacob Young's Highlight-Reel Catches Extend Mets' Playoff Woes

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Washington Nationals center fielder Jacob Young delivered a pivotal performance on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Citi Field. Young made two incredible, highlight-reel catches that directly contributed to a costly 3-2 defeat for the struggling New York Mets. His defensive heroics were instrumental in the Nationals' victory, further complicating the Mets' battle for control of the final wild-card slot in the National League, effectively extending their woes.

Mike Trout Hits 400th Career Homer, Shares Memorable Catch with Fan

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Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout reached a significant career milestone on September 20, 2025, hitting his 400th career home run against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. The 34-year-old outfielder, in his 15th season, became the 59th MLB player to reach 400 homers and the 20th to accomplish this feat with a single franchise. The 485-foot blast was Trout's third of at least that distance since Statcast began tracking in 2015, the most by any player. Following the game, a fan named Alberto, who caught the historic ball, returned it to Trout. In a heartwarming exchange, Trout provided Alberto with three signed bats and two signed baseballs, and fulfilled an unusual request to play catch with the fan on the field, creating a lasting memory for Alberto and his son. Trout admitted feeling pressure nearing the milestone, with this being only his second long ball since August 7.

New York Mets' Cedric Mullins Involved in Daylen Lile's Knee Injury

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On Sunday, September 21, 2025, New York Mets player Cedric Mullins hit a sinking liner during a game against the Washington Nationals. Washington Nationals rookie outfielder Daylen Lile sustained a left knee contusion while attempting a sliding catch of Mullins' hit, forcing Lile to exit the game. No further details regarding Mullins' individual performance were provided in the report.

Washington Nationals Rookie Daylen Lile Suffers Left Knee Contusion, Exits Game

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On Sunday, September 21, 2025, Washington Nationals rookie outfielder Daylen Lile, 22, exited his club's game against the New York Mets in the third inning due to a left knee contusion. The injury occurred when Lile attempted a sliding catch of a sinking liner hit by Cedric Mullins. This early departure raises immediate concerns for the Nationals regarding the young player's condition and potential recovery timeline.

Milwaukee Brewers Pitcher Brandon Woodruff Hits IL with Lat Strain, Playoff Status Doubtful

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Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a right lat strain, a development that significantly jeopardizes his availability for the upcoming playoffs. The move, effective as of September 21, 2025, means the Brewers will be without a crucial arm as they prepare for postseason contention. Woodruff's injury casts a shadow over the team's pitching rotation, with his potential return timeline remaining uncertain. This setback is a major concern for the Milwaukee Brewers, impacting their strategic planning for the playoffs.

Ranger Suárez Struggles Early, Gives Up Six Runs in Phillies' Loss to Diamondbacks

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Philadelphia Phillies starter Ranger Suárez endured a difficult outing, surrendering six runs on eight hits in just the first two innings of the team's 9-2 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks' offense exploded in the second inning, scoring five runs off Suárez after loading the bases. This included a two-run single and Corbin Carroll's 31st home run of the season, extending Arizona's lead to 6-0. Suárez, who was pulled after four innings and 79 pitches, delivered what was described as an 'ugly performance,' potentially serving as a necessary reset before the upcoming playoffs. The loss concluded the Phillies' six-game road trip.

Nolan Arenado Receives Emotional Ovation in Potential Final Cardinals Home Game

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On Sunday, September 21, 2025, St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado received a significant ovation at Busch Stadium, in what many speculate could be his last home game for the team. The Cardinals intentionally placed Arenado in the lineup for the game, only to pull him shortly thereafter, allowing him to be recognized by the home crowd. This poignant moment underscores the uncertainty surrounding Arenado's future with the St. Louis Cardinals.

Luis Vázquez's Journey from Puerto Rico Inspires Orioles Community

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Baltimore Orioles player Luis Vázquez, who hails from 'up in the mountains' of Puerto Rico, is a source of immense pride and inspiration for his community. As reported on September 21, 2025, Vázquez's journey to the major leagues is seen as a collective triumph, encapsulated by the powerful sentiment, 'For one of us to make it, it means we all made it.' His success resonates deeply, symbolizing shared achievement and hope for many.

Giants Rookie Trevor McDonald Impresses in First Start, Secures Another Opportunity

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San Francisco Giants rookie pitcher Trevor McDonald delivered a strong performance in his audition against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday, September 21, 2025, earning him another starting opportunity. McDonald allowed just one run over six-plus innings, striking out three and scattering six hits. Manager Bob Melvin praised the 24-year-old's determination, stating he 'deserved another start' and 'he's not afraid' against a formidable lineup. Top prospect Bryce Eldridge also commended McDonald's quick work and ability to throw strikes. While McDonald primarily relies on his sinker, his breaking ball was particularly effective in this outing, helping him settle in early. He aims to finish the season strong to carry momentum into the offseason and secure a spot on the team next spring.

Tigers Designate Veteran Pitcher Charlie Morton for Assignment Amidst Struggles

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The Detroit Tigers designated veteran right-hander Charlie Morton for assignment on Sunday, September 21, as the club battles to maintain its American League Central lead. The 41-year-old Morton struggled significantly since joining the Tigers from the Orioles at the Trade Deadline in exchange for Minor League left-hander Micah Ashman. He posted a 2-3 record with a 7.09 ERA across nine starts. His recent performance included allowing six runs in just 1 1/3 innings against the Braves on Friday, contributing to Detroit's 5-12 record this month and a shrinking division lead from 9 1/2 games to just one. In a corresponding move, Tanner Rainey was called up from Triple-A Toledo.

Tyrone Taylor Feeling Good, Slated for Triple-A Action This Sunday

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New York Mets outfielder Tyrone Taylor is making positive strides in his recovery, with manager Carlos Mendoza announcing on Saturday, September 21, 2025, that Taylor is 'feeling good' and is expected to play in Triple-A on Sunday. This development suggests Taylor is nearing a return to action, potentially providing a boost to the Mets' roster. The update was part of a broader series of team news shared by Mendoza before Saturday's game, underscoring Taylor's progress and potential impact for the New York Mets.

Kodai Senga Set to Throw Live Batting Practice This Week for Mets

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New York Mets pitcher Kodai Senga is slated to take a significant step in his recovery process this week, with manager Carlos Mendoza confirming on Saturday, September 21, 2025, that Senga is scheduled to throw live batting practice. This update, provided prior to the Mets' game against the Nationals, indicates positive progress for the right-hander as he works towards a potential return. The news comes amidst other team updates, highlighting Senga's individual advancement as a key focus for the New York Mets.

Shohei Ohtani Blasts 53rd Home Run, Ties for National League Lead

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Shohei Ohtani delivered a significant performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers on September 21, 2025, launching his 53rd home run of the season. This powerful blast tied him for the National League lead in home runs. Ohtani's crucial contribution helped the Dodgers erase an early four-run deficit, leading them to a 7-5 victory over the Giants. His continued offensive prowess was instrumental in securing the win for Los Angeles.