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MLB News

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

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Brandon Nimmo's Three-Run Homer and Key Outfield Assist Propel Mets to Series Win

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New York Mets left fielder Brandon Nimmo delivered a heroic performance on Thursday, September 18, 2025, contributing significantly to the Mets' 6-1 series-clinching victory over the San Diego Padres. Nimmo tied his career-high with his 24th home run of the season, a crucial three-run blast in the third inning off Wandy Peralta that put the Mets ahead for good. This marked his seventh game this season with three or more RBI, and he has now hit safely in 25 of his last 31 starts. Nimmo explained his approach against the tough lefty Peralta, focusing on finding the barrel and executing with two strikes. Beyond his offensive heroics, Nimmo also made a pivotal outfield assist in the first inning, throwing out Manny Machado at second base, a play he noted helped shift momentum and prevent an easier scoring opportunity for the Padres.

Cal Raleigh Praises Bryan Woo's Deceptive Fastball, Frustrating Hitters

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh has been a key witness to Bryan Woo's emergence, having been behind the plate for 51 of Woo's 69 major-league starts. Raleigh describes Woo's "superpower" four-seam fastball as highly deceptive, noting, "Guys feel like they're seeing it, and they're not. It's created a lot of angry hitters.” He further elaborated on Woo's smooth delivery, which makes the pitch appear to come out easily, yet it gets on hitters unexpectedly. Raleigh's insights highlight the unique characteristics of Woo's arsenal that have made him one of the Mariners' most dependable starters this season, consistently frustrating opposing batters with its unusual movement and velocity.

Bryan Woo Anchors Mariners' Rotation with Dominant, Deceptive Four-Seam Fastball

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Bryan Woo has solidified his role as the Seattle Mariners' most dependable starter in 2025, largely due to his "superpower" four-seam fastball. Opponents are hitting a mere .152 against the pitch, the lowest mark among MLB starting pitchers, complemented by a 28.6% whiff rate. Woo's impeccable command and smooth delivery amplify the pitch's effectiveness, making it appear to rise to hitters, as noted by Mookie Betts. He recently set an MLB record with 25 consecutive starts of at least six innings and two or fewer walks, surpassing Juan Marichal. Drafted by the Mariners in 2021 after Tommy John surgery, Woo's potential was recognized despite a high college ERA. He learned to leverage his low release height for optimal fastball placement high in the zone and later added a two-seam fastball. His fastball variations comprise 73% of his pitches, the highest rate for any MLB starter. Teammates and coaches praise his deceptive stuff and bravery in the strike zone, with his 4% walk rate among the league's lowest.

Jonah Tong Silences Doubters with Impressive Bounce-Back Outing for New York Mets

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New York Mets pitcher Jonah Tong delivered a crucial bounce-back performance on Thursday afternoon against the San Diego Padres, silencing doubters after a recent struggle. The 22-year-old right-hander pitched 5.0 innings, allowing just one unearned run on four hits, setting a new career-high with eight strikeouts and issuing no walks. This outing followed a difficult start against the Texas Rangers where he gave up six earned runs. Tong credited "a lot more strikes" and "confidence to attack hitters" for his success. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Tong's aggressive approach, noting his impressive fastball, changeup, and curveball. Teammate Pete Alonso emphasized the importance of such development for the young pitcher, stating Tong "has got sky-high potential" and showed "a lot of character." The Mets secured their third win in four games, bolstering their 2025 postseason aspirations.

Tarik Skubal's Tigers Swept, AL Central Race Tightens

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The Detroit Tigers, featuring pitcher Tarik Skubal, experienced a sweep at the hands of the Guardians, a development that has significantly tightened the American League Central race. This outcome has notably shrunk Detroit's advantage in securing a playoff bye. Following the series, the Detroit Tigers now hold a 3 ½-game lead over the Guardians, highlighting the increased pressure on the team as the season progresses. Skubal was identified in the headline as part of the Tigers' roster during this pivotal series.

Justin Verlander, Riding Hot Streak, Aims for 21st Season in 2026

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander has expressed his strong desire to continue his career into the 2026 MLB season. Currently riding a significant hot streak, the veteran right-hander boasts an impressive 2.17 ERA over his last 11 starts. Verlander, who will turn 43 in February 2026, is aiming for what would be his 21st professional season. His current performance suggests he believes he can still contribute at a high level, pushing past an age where most players have retired. This ambition highlights his enduring commitment to the game.

Bo Bichette Leads MLB in Hits Despite Knee Injury, Market Value Rising for Star Shortstop

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Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette, a significant riser to fourth in the free-agent rankings, is currently sidelined with a sprained knee, having not played since September 6. Despite the injury, the 28-year-old is leading all of baseball in hits for a resurgent Toronto team, marking a reassuring offensive season after his production significantly declined in 2024. While his defense at shortstop is considered borderline unplayable, likely prompting a future move to second or third base, his exceptional bat remains a highly coveted asset capable of anchoring any lineup. A contract similar to Willy Adames' seven-year, $182 million deal is considered a reasonable target for Bichette.

Kyle Schwarber Blasts 53 Homers, Phillies Reunion Likely Amidst Cubs Interest

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Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, ranked third in the upcoming free-agent class, has had an historic 2025 season, smashing 53 home runs as of September 18th – a feat achieved by only 23 other MLB hitters. The 33-year-old has become a beloved figure in Philadelphia and a key clubhouse leader. While the consensus suggests a reunion with the Phillies, the Chicago Cubs are noted as a potential suitor. If Kyle Tucker departs, the Cubs, who drafted Schwarber and won the 2016 World Series with him, would seek to bring him home to boost their offense and appease fans.

Alex Bregman Thriving in Boston, Expected to Opt Out Despite Quad Injury

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Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman, ranked second among upcoming free agents, has enjoyed a wonderful first year with the team, despite a two-month absence due to a quad injury. The 32-year-old has delivered his most productive offensive season in three years, complemented by stellar defense at the hot corner. Bregman has also proven indispensable in the clubhouse, guiding the young Red Sox squad. He currently has two years remaining on his contract at $40 million each, but is widely expected to opt out and retest the market. Despite past lower-body issues affecting his athleticism, there's strong belief he will maximize his abilities, making him a valuable asset for any team.

Kyle Tucker's Calf Injury Clouds Postseason Return, Historic Free Agency Still Expected

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Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker, ranked first among upcoming free agents, has experienced a tumultuous period despite his consistent top ranking. After a challenging summer, the 29-year-old slugger ignited in mid-August, hitting four home runs with a 1.040 OPS from the 16th onward. However, his season was interrupted on September 2 when he sustained a calf issue, sidelining him since. His potential return for October is a significant storyline for the Chicago Cubs. While his relatively underwhelming 2025 campaign hasn't altered his free-agent stock, he is still projected to command a historic deal, though a $500 million contract now seems unlikely.

Dodgers Rookie Roki Sasaki Strives for MLB Return, Playoff Role After Extended Absence

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Los Angeles Dodgers rookie Roki Sasaki is actively working to get back on track and earn a playoff role as of September 18, 2025. Sasaki has not pitched in the majors since May, marking a challenging and disappointing start to his first MLB season. Efforts to return include a 'tweaked repertoire,' suggesting strategic adjustments are being made. His current focus is on ending his rookie campaign on a positive note by rejoining the team and contributing to their playoff push, despite the extended absence from major league play.

Reed Garrett's Regular Season Ends as Mets Reliever Lands on IL with Elbow Sprain

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New York Mets reliever Reed Garrett has been placed back on the 15-day Injured List with a right elbow sprain, effectively ending his regular season. The move, announced on September 18, 2025, comes shortly after Garrett was activated on September 7 from a previous stint on the IL for right elbow inflammation, indicating a recurrence of his elbow issues. This season, the right-hander made 58 appearances, recording a 3.90 ERA. His performance was notably streaky, starting strong in April and May without allowing an earned run, but then struggling significantly with a 7.36 ERA in June and an 8.00 ERA in August. His absence impacts the Mets' bullpen as they make other roster adjustments.

Aaron Judge Highlighted as Top Home Run Prop Bet for September 18th

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As the MLB season progresses, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees is being identified as a prime candidate for home run player props on September 18th. The Inside the Lines team, which has achieved over 30 units in profit on home run bets this season, has highlighted Judge among their best bets. This recommendation comes as part of their broader strategy of providing daily free picks across various sports, detailed on their blog.

Kumar Rocker's Rookie Season Under Review Amidst Unmet Expectations

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Kumar Rocker, a highly touted prospect, is among the MLB rookies who have yet to demonstrate their full potential, according to recent analysis. Despite being a high draft pick and possessing strong credentials, Rocker has not yet proven his value to the Texas Rangers. The article suggests that these rookies, including Rocker, are facing scrutiny as they navigate their initial professional seasons. The focus is on how these players can adjust and improve to meet the significant expectations placed upon them, with the hope that they can still turn their performances around.

Dylan Crews and Kumar Rocker: Rookies Facing Scrutiny Amidst High Expectations

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Despite entering MLB with significant credentials and high draft pedigree, promising rookies Dylan Crews and Kumar Rocker are currently not living up to the hype. The article highlights that these players, drafted with the expectation of immediate impact, have yet to fully prove their value on the field. Further analysis is needed to understand the specific reasons behind their slow starts and to identify potential pathways for them to turn their seasons around and meet the high expectations set by their draft positions and team affiliations. The Washington Nationals' Dylan Crews and the Texas Rangers' Kumar Rocker are among those under the microscope.

Trevor Story's Perfect Stolen Base Streak Ends at 31, Paired with Resurgent Power

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Trevor Story of the Boston Red Sox saw his American League record streak of 31 consecutive stolen bases to start the season come to an end on Wednesday when he was caught stealing second base in the bottom of the eighth inning against the A's. This remarkable run surpassed Carl Crawford's 2009 streak of 30. Story's performance this season has been a resurgence, as he has combined his career-best 31 stolen bases with 24 home runs, his highest total since 2021. Despite the end of his streak, Trea Turner remains the only player since 1951 to achieve at least 30 stolen bases without being caught in a full season.

Manny Machado's 14th Career Grand Slam Propels Padres to Crucial Victory

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San Diego Padres star Manny Machado delivered a pivotal performance, launching his 14th career grand slam—the most among active players—to secure a 7-4 victory over the New York Mets. The tie-breaking blast, his second grand slam this season and 26th homer overall, came in the fifth inning off David Peterson, giving the Padres a 6-2 lead. Manager Mike Shildt praised Machado's 'calmness' in high-pressure situations, while Machado himself stated he was 'just trying to drive in one' run. This crucial win keeps the Padres two games behind the Dodgers in the NL West and five games ahead of the Mets for a wild card spot, highlighting Machado's significant impact.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Royals Pitcher Ryan Bergert Placed on Injured List Due to Forearm Tightness

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Kansas City Royals pitcher Ryan Bergert has been placed on the injured list after experiencing tightness in his right forearm. The issue arose before Wednesday's victory over the Mariners, prompting the decision to move him to the IL. Bergert, who was originally scheduled to take the mound as the starter for Friday's game against Toronto, will now be sidelined as he recovers from the forearm discomfort. This move impacts the Royals' pitching plans, necessitating an adjustment to their rotation.

Blake Snell Delivers Season-Best Dominance, Strikes Out 12 in Dodgers' Shutout Win

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Blake Snell delivered his best performance in a Los Angeles Dodgers uniform on Wednesday night, dominating the Philadelphia Phillies in a 5-0 shutout victory. The $180-million offseason signee pitched seven scoreless innings, recording a season-high 12 strikeouts. Snell showcased an aggressive, attacking game plan, retiring the first eight batters he faced and freezing Kyle Schwarber with one of his seven curveball punchouts. A pivotal moment occurred in the seventh inning when, after two walks, Snell convinced manager Dave Roberts to let him stay in, subsequently striking out Otto Kemp with a 95-mph fastball on his 112th pitch. His stellar outing significantly eased the pressure on the Dodgers' bullpen and helped the team maintain a two-game lead in the National League West.

Mets' David Peterson Grapples with Inconsistent Form, Manager Trusts Him for Next Start

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New York Mets pitcher David Peterson continued his second-half struggles, allowing six runs in five innings during a recent 7-4 loss to the Padres on September 17, 2025. The outing, which included a Manny Machado grand slam, contributed to his 5.71 ERA over 11 starts since making his first All-Star team, a significant increase from his sub-3.00 ERA earlier in the season. Despite the inconsistency, manager Carlos Mendoza expressed trust in Peterson, stating, "We need him. He’s been a big part of this team." Mendoza confirmed Peterson will make his next start, emphasizing the team's need for him to return to his earlier ace-like form as they push for a playoff spot. Peterson acknowledged his struggles, noting, "It’s obviously tough when you know what you’re capable of."