AutoDraft Pro
Get the app

Player news from trusted outlets

MLB News

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

Saturday, September 13, 2025

Brandon Sproat Shines with Six Shutout Innings in Second MLB Start for Mets

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Mets pitcher Brandon Sproat delivered an outstanding performance in his second major league start, throwing six shutout innings against the Texas Rangers on Saturday. Despite the Mets' eventual 3-2 loss, Sproat was highly efficient, needing only 70 pitches while showcasing excellent command. He effectively utilized his running two-seamer, sweeper, and change-up, keeping hitters off balance and allowing no walks while striking out three. This strong outing, which earned him Game MVP honors, lowered his ERA to 2.25 across his first two starts and offered a significant lift and hope for the future for the struggling Mets.

Logan Webb Takes Full Blame for Giants' Missed Playoff Opportunity After Challenging Start

AutoDraft Pro AI

San Francisco Giants ace Logan Webb took full blame for the team's 13-7 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on September 13, 2025, which cost them a crucial NL wild-card spot opportunity. Webb described his performance as "unacceptable" and "not great," stating, "I really let the team down today." He pitched 4.0 innings, surrendering 10 hits and six earned runs, striking out five and walking two, including a solo home run to Shohei Ohtani. Manager Bob Melvin noted Webb "just didn’t have his great stuff today." Webb admitted to "overthinking a little" and "trying to be cute" with his pitches. The loss was particularly impactful as it followed the New York Mets' eighth straight loss, presenting the Giants with a clear chance to move into a playoff position. Webb acknowledged, "Everyone knows what’s going on... I did a bad job today."

Anthony Rizzo Honored by Cubs, Nearly Catches Home Run Ball at Wrigley Field

AutoDraft Pro AI

Anthony Rizzo, currently affiliated with the New York Yankees, was recently honored by the Chicago Cubs on September 13, 2025, just days after his retirement. During the event at Wrigley Field, Rizzo nearly made a memorable catch in the bleachers, attempting to haul in a home-run ball. This moment drew a notable contrast to his storied career, specifically recalling his iconic catch of the final out during the 2016 World Series. While he secured that pivotal out for the Cubs' championship, he was unable to 'haul this one in' during his recent visit, adding a lighthearted note to his tribute.

Tigers Ace Tarik Skubal Avoids Serious Injury, Expected to Make Next Start

AutoDraft Pro AI

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is reportedly "all good" after an injury scare during his Friday start. Skubal had departed the game against the Marlins with tightness in his left side, sparking concern for the team's rotation. However, subsequent reports confirmed that the issue was not serious, and the talented left-hander is now expected to make his next scheduled start. This positive update, following his exit from the game, alleviates worries for the Tigers, ensuring their ace remains a key part of their pitching plans moving forward.

Jonah Tong Retains Mets Rotation Spot Despite Challenging Start, Receives Team Support

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that 22-year-old right-hander Jonah Tong will remain in the big league rotation for now, despite a difficult outing on Friday night where he recorded only two outs and surrendered six runs on four hits and three walks. Mendoza acknowledged the situation is fluid but emphasized the plan is to keep Tong starting. The manager expressed confidence in Tong's talent and ability to learn from his first truly rough major league experience, noting his positive personality and focus on the next game. Crucially, Tong received significant support from his veteran teammates and the entire club after his emotional start, a gesture Mendoza highlighted as a testament to the team's strong camaraderie and care for each other.

Kodai Senga Set for Second Triple-A Start After Dominant First Outing

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that 32-year-old right-hander Kodai Senga is scheduled to make a second start at Triple-A Syracuse. This decision aligns with the initial plan, allowing Senga to continue refining his mechanics and ensure a full recovery, as he needs to be down for 15 days anyway. His first outing with Syracuse was highly successful, where he allowed just one run on three hits over six innings, striking out eight without issuing any walks. Mendoza praised Senga's performance, noting his effective use of all pitches, aggressive strike-throwing, and impressive metrics, including 18 whiffs on 43 swings and a perfect 11 whiffs on 11 swings with his forkball. The Mets are optimistic about his progress as he works towards rejoining the big league rotation.

Huascar Brazobán Optioned to Triple-A by Mets Despite Recent Strong Performance

AutoDraft Pro AI

Reliever Huascar Brazobán was optioned by the New York Mets to Triple-A Syracuse on September 13, 2025, to accommodate the need for a fresh bullpen arm. This move occurred despite Brazobán's recent effective outing, where he pitched 3.1 scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and a walk, after being added to the big league roster for Friday's series opener. Brazobán has frequently moved between the majors and Triple-A throughout the current season. With the Mets, he has accumulated a 3.67 ERA and 1.296 WHIP across 47 games, including three starts as an opener, tallying 51 strikeouts and 27 walks over 56.1 innings.

Mets Recall Right-Hander Dom Hamel from Triple-A for Bullpen Reinforcement

AutoDraft Pro AI

Right-hander Dom Hamel, 26, has been recalled by the New York Mets from Triple-A Syracuse on September 13, 2025, to provide a fresh arm for the bullpen. This marks his second call-up this season, having previously been brought up in early August but sent down before making his MLB debut. In 31 games (11 starts) with Triple-A Syracuse this year, Hamel has posted a 5.32 ERA and 1.330 WHIP with 75 strikeouts and 22 walks over 67.2 innings. This season is notable as his first working extensively out of the bullpen, a shift from his 2022-2023 campaigns where he primarily started, making 52 starts in 57 appearances across Syracuse and Double-A Binghampton.

Jacob deGrom Dominates in Citi Field Return, Secures Rangers Victory

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jacob deGrom made a triumphant return to Citi Field, pitching seven strong innings for the Texas Rangers in an 8-3 win over the New York Mets. He received a six-run lead before throwing his first pitch and a video tribute from his former team. DeGrom allowed three runs on four hits, striking out batters and averaging 98 mph with his fastball, topping out at 99.6 mph. His 2.14 regular-season ERA at Citi Field is the second-lowest for a pitcher since 1920 with at least 500 innings. DeGrom, who left the Mets in December 2022, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to pitch there again and acknowledged the special feeling of facing former teammates. He also commented on the possibility of the Mets retiring his number, calling it a "huge honor." Despite past injuries, deGrom has been effective this season, showcasing his resilience and Hall of Fame potential.

Patrick Bailey's Walk-Off Grand Slam Secures Giants Win, Makes MLB History

AutoDraft Pro AI

San Francisco Giants catcher Patrick Bailey delivered a dramatic walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the 10th inning on Friday night, securing a crucial 5-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. The decisive blast came after reliever Tanner Scott intentionally walked two batters to load the bases, setting the stage for Bailey's heroics. This marked Bailey's second walk-off home run of the season, following an inside-the-park homer on July 9. With this grand slam, Bailey made MLB history as the first player to record both an inside-the-park walk-off home run and a walk-off grand slam in the same season. The win moved the Giants within a half-game of the National League's final wild-card spot, with starter Justin Verlander describing the game as 'special' and having a 'playoff atmosphere.'

Friday, September 12, 2025

Dominic Smith Exits Giants Game with Right Thigh Injury, MRI Scheduled

AutoDraft Pro AI

San Francisco Giants first baseman Dominic Smith departed Friday night's 5-1 walk-off victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers due to a right thigh injury. The incident occurred in the top of the fourth inning at Oracle Park when Smith suffered the injury while stretching for a throw at first base, immediately grabbing his leg. Manager Bob Melvin confirmed Smith will undergo an MRI exam on Saturday to determine the severity, noting the injury appears to be higher on his hamstring, which could be a slightly better prognosis. Smith, 30, had been batting cleanup and holds a .284 average with a .750 OPS in 63 games since signing with the Giants on June 4. Wilmer Flores replaced him at first base.

Tanner Scott Gives Up Walk-Off Grand Slam in Tough Dodgers Loss to Giants

AutoDraft Pro AI

Tanner Scott entered the game in the bottom of the 10th inning with the score tied 1-1 and proceeded to give up a walk-off grand slam to Patrick Bailey, resulting in a 5-1 loss for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the San Francisco Giants. Scott walked Jung Hoo Lee before surrendering the decisive hit with the bases loaded. This late-game collapse overshadowed a strong pitching performance from Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who had pitched seven scoreless innings. The Dodgers' offense was largely ineffective throughout the game, managing only four hits.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto Delivers Gem, but Dodgers' Offense Falters in Walk-Off Loss

AutoDraft Pro AI

Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitched an outstanding seven innings, allowing only one run on one hit while striking out 10 batters. This performance, following a near no-hitter, lowered his season ERA to 2.66 and marked his third start of at least seven innings in his last four outings. Despite Yamamoto's brilliance, the Los Angeles Dodgers' offense struggled, managing only four hits against the San Francisco Giants. Michael Conforto provided the Dodgers' lone run with a solo home run in the seventh inning. The offense failed to capitalize on opportunities, leaving runners stranded and ultimately contributing to a 5-1 walk-off loss in extra innings after Tanner Scott gave up a grand slam.

Luis Gil's Six Hitless Innings Against Red Sox Hailed as Potential Springboard for Yankees

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Yankees right-hander Luis Gil delivered a stellar performance on Friday night, throwing six hitless innings against the division-rival Boston Red Sox. Despite issuing four walks and striking out four, Gil navigated traffic effectively, helping the Yankees secure a crucial win. This outing lowered his season ERA to an impressive 2.83, and his career ERA against the Red Sox now stands at an outstanding 0.99 over five starts. Gil has been in excellent form, allowing just one earned run over his past two starts, both against divisional opponents. He emphasized the importance of contributing in the tight division race. Manager Aaron Boone noted Gil's good stuff and ability to get big outs, expressing hope that this dominant outing will serve as a "springboard" for the young pitcher.

Tanner Bibee Delivers Rare Complete-Game Shutout for Cleveland Guardians

AutoDraft Pro AI

On September 13, 2025, Tanner Bibee achieved a significant milestone for the Cleveland Guardians, throwing a complete-game shutout. This dominant performance marked the first time the Guardians had experienced such an outing in six years, highlighting Bibee's exceptional control and effectiveness on the mound. His rare nine-inning shutout provided a much-needed boost for the team, showcasing his potential as a top-tier starter.

Jacob deGrom Reflects on Emotional Citi Field Return, Earns 12th Win, Discusses Mets No. 48 Retirement

AutoDraft Pro AI

Texas Rangers right-hander Jacob deGrom made an emotional and highly-anticipated return to Citi Field, securing his 12th victory of the season. During his "special" night, the Mets honored him with a tribute video before he pitched seven strong innings, allowing three runs on four hits with two strikeouts and no walks, notably setting down 13 consecutive hitters after the third inning. The Rangers provided immediate run support, scoring six runs against Mets rookie Jonah Tong in the first. Following the game, deGrom, 37, expressed it would be a "huge honor" if the Mets were to retire his No. 48, reflecting on his dominant nine-year tenure where he earned NL Rookie of the Year, two Cy Youngs, and a 2.52 ERA.

Kevin Pillar Seeks Closure at Home Run Derby X After Rangers Release, Reflects on Career

AutoDraft Pro AI

Former Texas Rangers outfielder Kevin Pillar is participating in Home Run Derby X in Kansas City, representing the Blue Jays, viewing it as an opportunity for closure on his MLB career. Pillar recently announced his retirement after being released by the Rangers this season following 20 games, having signed a Minor League deal and making the club out of Spring Training. He expressed feelings of sadness, shock, and bitterness but felt he "left nothing on the table." Pillar, a 32nd-round pick from a Division II school, reflected on his unlikely 10-year career, which included setting a DII record 54-game hitting streak and becoming one of only seven players from his draft class with 100 steals and 100 home runs. He now enjoys baseball as a fan, free from the pressures of playing.

Mets Rookie Jonah Tong Receives Support After Difficult Start Against Jacob deGrom

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Mets rookie right-hander Jonah Tong, 22, endured a challenging start against Jacob deGrom at Citi Field, allowing six runs on four hits and three walks in the first inning. Thrust into a playoff race after pitching in Double-A last month, Tong was visibly emotional post-game, expressing disappointment and concern for the bullpen. Manager Carlos Mendoza and teammate David Peterson offered encouragement, with Mendoza noting Tong's maturity but emphasizing his need for further development. Despite the rough outing, Tong remains a viable option for the Mets, who are considering their next steps for the young pitcher as he reflects on the experience.

Giants' Matt Chapman Avoids Suspension, Settles with MLB for Fine

AutoDraft Pro AI

San Francisco Giants third baseman Matt Chapman has successfully appealed his one-game suspension, reaching a settlement with Major League Baseball to instead pay an undisclosed fine. The Giants announced the agreement on Friday, September 13, ahead of their series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Chapman's initial suspension stemmed from his involvement in a benches-clearing incident at Colorado on September 2, where he was disciplined for "pushing" Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland. Chapman, Freeland, and Giants shortstop Willy Adames were all ejected during the first-inning fracas. Despite the pending appeal, Chapman played the following night, leading the Giants to a 10-8 victory. Other players, including Freeland, Adames, and Rafael Devers, also received fines for their roles in the altercation, which began after Devers' two-run homer and subsequent celebration.

Will Smith's Hand Injury Lingers, Dodgers Monitor Catcher's Return Amid IL Talk

AutoDraft Pro AI

Kansas City Royals catcher Will Smith continues to manage a bone bruise in his right hand, sustained from a foul tip on September 3. He remained out of the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Giants, though manager Dave Roberts indicated he was available in an emergency capacity. Smith had returned to play Tuesday after missing five games but was scratched Wednesday due to renewed swelling during warm-ups. Despite X-rays, CT scans, and an MRI all coming back clean, the team is monitoring his condition closely. Roberts acknowledged Smith will likely manage the injury through the season, with an IL stint not ruled out if his condition doesn't improve. Smith, batting .296 with a .901 OPS in 110 games, is a key offensive contributor.