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MLB News

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

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Aaron Judge Absent from All-Star Game Swing-Off, Remains Key Storyline for MLB's Second Half

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Aaron Judge, identified as a significant storyline to watch as MLB's second half begins, was notably absent from the All-Star Game's inaugural swing-off tiebreaker. As a prominent power hitter and veteran, Judge had already left the ballpark by the time the tiebreaker commenced, a common practice for All-Star starting position players looking to maximize their break. This early departure meant the American League manager did not have him available for the predetermined swing-off participants.

Adam Frazier Reacquired by Kansas City Royals in All-Star Break Trade

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Veteran utility player Adam Frazier, 33, has been reacquired by the Kansas City Royals from the Pittsburgh Pirates in an All-Star break trade, with the Royals sending minor league infielder Cam Devanney to Pittsburgh. Frazier has played in 78 games this season, primarily at second base, left field, and right field, posting a .255 batting average with 21 RBIs. Having previously played for Kansas City last season, and covering every position except catcher and pitcher since his 2016 debut, Frazier joins the Royals as they are 4 1/2 games back of the American League’s final wild-card spot, bolstering their lineup for a potential playoff push.

James Wood Emerges as a Stabilizing Force and Budding Superstar for the Nationals

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James Wood, at just 22 years old, has become a pivotal and stabilizing force for the Washington Nationals, providing a rare spark for the team. The outfielder, who recently made his first All-Star appearance alongside MacKenzie Gore, delivered a monster first half slashing .278/.381/.534 with a .915 OPS and 22 home runs, accumulating a 4.4 bWAR. Agent Scott Boras compares his early impact to that of Bryce Harper and Juan Soto, highlighting his exceptional talent. Wood, acquired in the Juan Soto trade, demonstrates elite tools with a 93.6 mph average exit velocity and a low chase rate, earning praise from peers like Kyle Schwarber for his calm demeanor and comprehensive skills. Despite uncertainties about a long-term extension with the Nationals, Wood remains focused on his performance, consistently "sticking to his plan" at the plate.

Eugenio Suárez's X-rays Negative After All-Star Game Hand Injury Scare

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Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez has reportedly dodged a major injury scare after being hit by a pitch on his left hand during the All-Star Game. Suárez, who experienced obvious pain after being struck by Chicago White Sox right-hander Shane Smith, underwent X-rays which thankfully came back negative. Although he remained in the game, Suárez was replaced by Miami's Kyle Stowers in the first tiebreaking home run swing-off. Currently hitting .250 with 31 homers and 78 RBIs, Suárez's health is a crucial factor as he is considered a potential top target ahead of the upcoming MLB trade deadline.

All-Star Game MVP Kyle Schwarber Discusses Historic Swing-Off Win and Redefining His Role Beyond Just a Slugger

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Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber was named the MLB All-Star Game MVP after leading the National League to a wild victory in the event's first Home Run Derby-style tiebreaker. Despite going 0-for-2 with no hits in the main game, Schwarber delivered clutch heroics in the swing-off by drilling all three of his attempts over the fence, including a 461-foot blast, making him the first non-pitcher in MLB history to win the All-Star Game MVP without recording a hit. Beyond this historic performance, Schwarber expressed his desire to be known as more than just a home run hitter, emphasizing his excellent plate discipline, high walk rate, and focus on situational hitting. A three-time All-Star, he has consistently produced runs and leads the Phillies in home runs, but aims to contribute in diverse ways, often batting leadoff despite his power profile. Schwarber, who has had a storied career including a World Series win and numerous playoff home runs, remains focused on winning, a philosophy instilled by Jon Lester.

Giants' Robbie Ray Recalls Shock and Disbelief at All-Star Game Swing-Off Announcement

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Robbie Ray recounted his astonishment upon learning of MLB's new All-Star Game swing-off tiebreaker. He described how Dodgers manager Dave Roberts informed the National League dugout, saying, "Guys, you won’t believe this. If the game ends in a tie, I pre-selected three guys for a Home Run Derby. That’s how we’re going to finish it." Ray emphasized the collective disbelief among players, stating, "Nobody knew. We were all like, ‘Is this really how all this is going to happen?’ ”

Giants' Logan Webb Calls All-Star Game Swing-Off a 'Perfect Way' to End Game, Prefers it Over Extra Innings

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San Francisco Giants pitcher Logan Webb expressed his surprise at MLB's first-ever All-Star Game swing-off tiebreaker, stating he "had no clue this was a thing" until it unfolded. Despite the initial shock, Webb became a proponent of the new format, sharing a group text with other players who believe games should "always end just like that" rather than through traditional extra innings. He lauded the swing-off as a "perfect way" to conclude the All-Star Game, especially after witnessing Kyle Schwarber's decisive performance.

Mets Weigh Trade Options for Center Fielder Cedric Mullins

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The New York Mets are reportedly considering a trade for center fielder Cedric Mullins, with discussions highlighting both the potential benefits and drawbacks of acquiring him. This evaluation comes as the Mets assess their roster needs and potential additions for the upcoming season.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Cal Raleigh Makes History Winning Home Run Derby and Driving Record Viewership

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Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh achieved a historic milestone on July 15, 2025, by becoming the first catcher and first switch-hitter to win the MLB All-Star Home Run Derby, defeating Junior Caminero in the final and eliminating Oneil Cruz in the semifinal. His victory, which included a record-tying 470.62-foot blast, significantly boosted the Derby's ratings, with viewership up 5% from 2024 to an average of 5.729 million. Raleigh, who leads the majors with 38 homers and 82 RBIs and is the American League's starting catcher for the All-Star Game, is now on pace to challenge Aaron Judge's single-season American League home run record. He attributes his success to strong mental and physical self-care, even appearing on the All-Star red carpet. His father, Todd, served as his personal pitcher, and his 15-year-old brother, Todd Jr., was his catcher during the event.

Shohei Ohtani's All-Star Role and Off-Field Acquisition

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Shohei Ohtani participated in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game festivities, making an appearance on the red carpet. In the game itself, the Los Angeles Dodgers star was strategically placed in the National League lineup to bat ahead of Ronald Acuña Jr., aiming to give Acuña Jr. an advantage against AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. Off the field, Ohtani garnered attention for acquiring a Barry Bonds bobblehead.

Aaron Judge's All-Star Presence and Enduring Home Run Legacy Highlighted

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Aaron Judge, recognized as a titan of MLB, is a prominent participant in the 2025 All-Star Game. His legendary home run records, particularly the American League single-season benchmark, continue to be highlighted, even as Cal Raleigh's historic first-half performance poses a challenge. Judge's enduring influence on power hitting was further reaffirmed when Oneil Cruz tied his record for the longest homer outside of Coors Field during the recent Home Run Derby.

Kyle Schwarber Named All-Star Game MVP After Dominant Swing-Off Performance

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Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber was named the MLB All-Star Game MVP after leading the National League to a dramatic victory in the first-ever tiebreaking swing-off. Schwarber delivered three crucial home runs on three swings in the tiebreaker, securing a 4-3 win for the NL following a 6-6 tie in regulation. Despite going 0-for-2 with a walk in the game itself, this marked his third All-Star appearance and made him only the second Phillies player to earn the MVP award, celebrating a season where he entered the break with 30 home runs.

Veteran Clayton Kershaw Named 'Legend Pick' for 2025 MLB All-Star Game

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At 37 years old, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw has been selected as a "legend pick" for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, marking his 11th career All-Star appearance. The future Hall of Famer, who debuted in 2008, has amassed 442 career wins, showcasing remarkable longevity and consistency. Kershaw's selection highlights his enduring impact on the league, demonstrating a significant evolution from his clean-shaven rookie days to his current bearded veteran persona.

David Peterson Reflects on All-Star Experience and Prepares for Second Half

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Mets left-hander David Peterson reflected on his first career All-Star appearance, describing it as an 'awesome' experience. Following the Midsummer Classic, Peterson is now focused on his preparations and performance for the second half of the MLB season.

Jacob Wilson Makes Historic All-Star Debut as Starting Shortstop

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Rookie shortstop Jacob Wilson made a memorable debut at the MLB All-Star Game, starting for the American League. His appearance marked a historic moment as he and his father, former 12-year Major Leaguer Jack Wilson, became the first father/son duo to both be All-Star shortstops. Wilson was mic'd up during the game, sharing a unique interaction with his father, who also wore a microphone. He faced Giants' Logan Webb and Nats' MacKenzie Gore, showing a quick plate approach with an average of 3.24 pitches per at-bat and a 34% first-pitch swing rate.

Pete Alonso Blasts Three-Run Homer in MLB All-Star Game

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Mets slugger Pete Alonso made a significant impact during the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, smashing a crucial opposite-field three-run home run to right field. This powerful hit padded the National League's lead during the Midsummer Classic.

Tarik Skubal Crowned AL All-Star Game Starter After Dominant First Half

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Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal has been selected as the American League's starting pitcher for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, solidifying his status as the reigning AL Cy Young winner. Skubal has maintained exceptional performance, with a 10-3 record, a 2.23 ERA, 0.83 WHIP, and 153 strikeouts in 121 innings, demonstrating an elite combination of low walk and high strikeout rates. His dominance has drawn praise from across the league, with many considering him the best pitcher globally. In the All-Star Game, he is slated to face Ronald Acuna Jr. early, providing a challenging matchup for the Braves slugger.

Francisco Lindor Receives Boos, Smiles at 2025 MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta

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Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was met with anticipated boos from the Atlanta crowd during the 2025 MLB All-Star Game. Despite the reception, Lindor notably smiled, indicating he expected and was unfazed by the crowd's reaction alongside his fellow Mets All-Stars.

Max Fried Returns to Atlanta as All-Star, Sidelined by Blister Despite Leading AL in Wins

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New York Yankees ace Max Fried, who recently signed an eight-year, $218 million contract, received a warm welcome upon his return to Atlanta for the All-Star festivities, his first appearance since joining the Yankees after eight seasons with the Braves. Despite leading the American League with 11 wins, Fried is unable to pitch in the All-Star Game due to a blister on his left index finger, leading to his replacement by Yankees teammate Carlos Rodón. He is still attending the event in his former home city, and the Yankees are considering him for a start against Toronto later this month.

Ronald Acuña Jr. Shines on All-Star Red Carpet, Prepares for Tarik Skubal Matchup

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Ronald Acuña Jr. showcased his style on the MLB All-Star red carpet, earning recognition as a standout. In the All-Star Game, the Atlanta Braves slugger is slated for an early challenging matchup against American League starting pitcher and Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. Shohei Ohtani will bat strategically ahead of Acuña Jr. to help him see more pitches from Skubal during his first plate appearance.