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MLB News

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

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Juan Soto's Near Game-Tying Homer Highlights Mets' Playoff Push Struggles

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Juan Soto experienced a night of near-misses for the New York Mets on Wednesday, September 18, 2025, during their loss to the Padres. In the bottom of the seventh inning, with the Mets trailing by one run, Soto came inches away from a game-tying two-run blast against San Diego reliever Mason Miller. The 102.6 mph fastball he laced deep down the left field line hooked just shy of the foul pole, a moment Soto described as a "long strike." This would have been his 42nd homer, surpassing his career-high of 41, which he had tied earlier in the game. Soto had another chance in the ninth with the tying run on base but hit a 100.5 mph comebacker directly to closer Robert Suarez, ending the game. The loss reduced the Mets' third Wild Card lead to 1.5 games over the Diamondbacks and 2.0 over the Reds and Giants with 10 games remaining. Soto emphasized the team's need for consistency, stating, "We still have a playoff spot so we’re definitely still in this, but we have to get going right now."

Dodgers Eye Shohei Ohtani for Playoff Bullpen Role; Outfield Stint Ruled Out

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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed discussions about utilizing Shohei Ohtani as a reliever in the upcoming playoffs. This potential bullpen role comes despite Ohtani expressing his willingness to play in the outfield on Tuesday, a possibility Roberts definitively ruled out. The Dodgers are exploring all options to maximize Ohtani's impact in the postseason, focusing his pitching contributions on a relief capacity rather than a defensive outfield role, despite his stated readiness to play there.

Trent Grisham's Two Home Runs and Four RBI Lead Yankees to Series-Clinching Victory

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Trent Grisham delivered a standout performance for the New York Yankees on Wednesday night, hitting two home runs and driving in four runs to power the team to a 10-5 win over the Twins in Minnesota. His second-inning solo shot initially gave the Yankees a 2-1 lead. Grisham's impactful night earned him Game MVP honors and was crucial in clinching the series win. This strong outing continues what is described as a career year for Grisham, bringing his season totals to 33 home runs and 70 RBI. Notably, this marks his eighth long ball in his last 19 games and his tenth in the last 22, showcasing his recent power surge.

Cubs' Kyle Tucker Seeks Additional Treatment for Plateaued Calf Recovery

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Chicago Cubs' four-time All-Star Kyle Tucker has traveled to Florida for further treatment on his injured left calf. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed on September 18, 2025, that Tucker's recovery had "plateaued," necessitating the trip for specialized care. This update highlights a potential setback or a slower-than-anticipated rehabilitation process for the key player. The decision to seek additional treatment underscores the team's concern regarding his progress and aims to accelerate his return to play, ensuring he receives the most effective care for his injury.

Mets' Francisco Alvarez Returns to Lineup After Being Hit by Pitch

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New York Mets starting catcher Francisco Alvarez was back in the lineup on Wednesday, September 18, 2025, just one day after a concerning incident. Alvarez had exited Tuesday's game when he was struck on his left arm by a pitch. His swift return underscores his resilience and the team's assessment of his immediate health, allowing him to continue his role as the primary catcher.

Mets Activate Backup Catcher Luis Torrens from Injured List

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Backup catcher Luis Torrens was officially reinstated from the injured list by the New York Mets on Wednesday, September 18, 2025. His activation provides additional depth behind the plate for the team. Torrens' return to the active roster was confirmed in a news update published on the same day, signaling his readiness to rejoin game action.

Brewers Place Pitcher Jose Quintana on Injured List Due to Calf Injury

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Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jose Quintana has been placed on the Injured List (IL) due to a calf injury, a move announced on September 18, 2025. This development impacts the Brewers' pitching staff as the team navigates the final stretch of the season with the playoffs approaching. Quintana's absence, stemming from the calf issue, means the Brewers will be without his services for an undetermined period, requiring adjustments to their roster.

Brewers' All-Star Closer Trevor Megill's Playoff Return Remains Uncertain

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Milwaukee Brewers' All-Star closer Trevor Megill's availability for the upcoming playoffs is currently in doubt, as the team remains unsure about his potential return timeline. This uncertainty surrounding Megill, a key bullpen piece, comes at a critical juncture for the Brewers as they eye a postseason run. The development, reported on September 18, 2025, highlights a significant concern for Milwaukee's bullpen depth as the playoffs approach, with no clear date set for his comeback.

Justin Verlander's 'Remarkable' Late-Season Dominance Powers Giants' Crucial Win

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San Francisco Giants ace Justin Verlander continued his 'remarkable' late-season dominance, delivering seven scoreless innings in a crucial extra-innings victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on September 17, 2025. The veteran right-hander allowed just three hits, striking out three and walking two over 107 pitches, primarily utilizing his four-seam fastball and slider. Despite not earning the win himself, Verlander's stellar outing snapped the Giants' four-game skid and kept their postseason hopes alive. Manager Bob Melvin praised his performance, noting Verlander's ability to 'step up when you need him.' This outing extends an impressive 11-game stretch where Verlander boasts a 2.17 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, .211 opposing batting average, and 60 strikeouts, solidifying his impact as the Giants (76-76) chase an NL Wild Card spot.

Ian Happ's Homer and Three RBIs Propel Cubs to First Playoff Berth Since 2020

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Ian Happ delivered a pivotal performance on September 17, 2025, playing a crucial role in the Chicago Cubs clinching their first postseason berth since 2020. Happ homered and drove in three runs, spearheading the Cubs' victory. This win marked their seventh triumph in eight games, solidifying their impressive late-season surge. His offensive contributions were instrumental in securing the team's playoff spot, highlighting his impact as the Cubs continue their strong run towards the postseason.

Red Sox Exercise Caution with Wilyer Abreu's Calf Strain Recovery

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Boston Red Sox outfielder Wilyer Abreu, who has been sidelined since August 17 due to a calf strain, is progressing but the team is taking a cautious approach to his return. Manager Alex Cora confirmed on September 17, 2025, that Abreu would not be activated before Thursday's game, despite being close to a return. Abreu is scheduled for sprinting drills but not base running, as he experienced soreness after a recent heavy running day. Cora emphasized the team's desire to avoid any setbacks, noting that Abreu's recovery isn't necessarily behind schedule. The 26-year-old has recorded a .253/.325/.486 slash line with 22 home runs, 16 doubles, and 69 RBIs in 108 games this season.

Willson Contreras' Stellar 2025 Season Ends Prematurely Due to Biceps Strain

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Willson Contreras' 2025 season has concluded prematurely due to a right biceps strain, with the St. Louis Cardinals placing their slugging first baseman on the 10-day injured list. Manager Oliver Marmol confirmed the decision was made to prevent a mild strain from worsening, especially given the Cardinals' fading playoff hopes. Contreras, 33, had a standout year after transitioning from catcher to first base following an injury-filled 2024 season that included a fractured right forearm and a broken right middle finger. In 135 games, he led the team with 20 home runs and 80 RBIs, slashing .257/.344/.447, and hitting a career-best 31 doubles. Defensively, he excelled at his new position, recording +6 outs above average, tied for fifth in MLB. Marmol praised his successful adjustment and offensive production.

Bryce Harper Featured in Debate Over Most Important Players of This Generation

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Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper was a central figure in a recent Baseball Bar-B-Cast discussion on September 17, 2025. The debate focused on whether he and Shohei Ohtani are the two most important players of this generation. While specific on-field actions for Harper on this date were not detailed, his inclusion in such a high-level discussion underscores his continued prominence and perceived significance in the 2025 MLB season, highlighting his enduring impact on the league.

Blue Jays Phenom Trey Yesavage Makes Immediate Impact in Impressive Debut

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Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Trey Yesavage made an impressive debut, immediately drawing attention on the Baseball Bar-B-Cast on September 17, 2025. His strong performance suggests he could become an integral part of the Blue Jays' push for the American League East title. As a new phenom, Yesavage's early impact is seen as a key storyline from the 2025 MLB season, offering a significant boost to the team's postseason aspirations.

Cal Raleigh Shatters Mickey Mantle's Switch-Hitting Home Run Record with 56

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh made history on Tuesday night, September 17, 2025, by setting a new single-season record for most home runs hit by a switch hitter. Surpassing the legendary Mickey Mantle, Raleigh now boasts 56 homers for the year. His unbelievable campaign, especially while serving as the team's primary catcher, has propelled him into serious contention for the American League Most Valuable Player award, placing him alongside New York Yankees superstar Aaron Judge in the tight race. This historic run by "Big Dumper" remains a captivating storyline as the Mariners approach the postseason.

Aaron Judge's Home Run Record Challenged by Mariners' Cal Raleigh

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New York Yankees star Aaron Judge's notable home run record is currently under scrutiny as Seattle Mariners slugger Cal Raleigh continues his impressive 2025 campaign. Following a monster two-homer night on Tuesday, September 17, 2025, Raleigh has reached 56 home runs, significantly closing the gap on Judge's established mark. This development places Judge's record in the spotlight, highlighting the exceptional power hitting displayed by Raleigh and setting up a compelling chase as the season progresses towards its conclusion.

Fantasy Pitching Streamers: Joey Cantillo and Luis Morales Ranked for Final Weeks

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Luis Morales (36% rostered) is recommended as a streaming starting pitcher for the final weeks of the fantasy baseball season. While acknowledging his last two starts were not ideal, the article attributes this to pitching in a highly hitter-friendly park. Morales is now set to face the Pirates in Pittsburgh, a matchup considered more favorable. He is ranked as a strong preference by fantasy analyst Eric Samulski, who believes the talented rookie can perform well in this outing. This recommendation is part of a broader strategy for fantasy managers to optimize their pitching rotations.

Fantasy Pitching Streamers: Joey Cantillo and Luis Morales Ranked for Final Weeks

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For the final two weeks of the fantasy baseball season, Joey Cantillo and Luis Morales are highlighted as recommended streaming starting pitchers. Eric Samulski ranks Cantillo (26% rostered) as a strong preference, noting his underrated performance and favorable matchup against a left-handed heavy Twins offense. Luis Morales (36% rostered) is also listed as a strong preference, with Samulski believing his recent struggles were due to pitching in a hitter-friendly park, and now he gets a better matchup against the Pirates in Pittsburgh. Both pitchers are advised for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge in head-to-head titles or roto points.

Mookie Betts Ignites Dodgers' Offense with 'Headspace' Shift Ahead of Playoffs

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Mookie Betts is finding his stride at a crucial time for the playoff-bound Los Angeles Dodgers. In a conversation with CBS Sports, Betts revealed that he has "switched my headspace," attributing his recent surge to a mental adjustment. This comes after a period where he was reportedly struggling. The article highlights Betts' ability to bounce back and the significant expectations placed upon him and the Dodgers as they head into the postseason.

George Springer Highlighted as Top Home Run Prop Bet for September 17

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George Springer of the Toronto Blue Jays is identified as a prime candidate for home run player props on September 17. The Inside the Lines team, which has achieved over 30 units in profit this season with their nightly home run bets, specifically points to Springer as a strong selection. This recommendation is part of their broader offering of free daily picks across various sports, detailed on the Inside the Lines blog. The focus on Springer underscores his potential for hitting home runs on this particular date.