RONALD BLUM Baseball Writer.

FILE - New York Mets' Francisco Lindor walks to the dugout during a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladk,File)

Lindor, Correa, Báez left off Puerto Rico’s WBC roster over insurance coverage

Puerto Rico’s World Baseball Classic roster is missing Francisco Lindor, Carlos Correa, and Javy Báez due to insurance issues.  Defending champion Japan enters the tournament headed by Shohei Ohtani. The U.S. boasts its strongest pitching staff led by Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal, and position players are headed by captain Aaron Judge. The tournament, featuring 78 All-Stars, runs from March 5-17. Japan beat the U.S. 3-2 in the 2023 final for its third title and first since 2009. The Americans won in 2017 and the Dominican Republic in 2013.

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Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani leaves after talking to reporters during DodgerFest at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Major League Baseball salary increase slowed to 1.4% in 2025 while setting record at $4.7 million

Major League Baseball’s average salary increased by 1.4% last year, reaching a record $4.7 million, according to the players’ association. This is the smallest increase since the average dropped for four straight seasons before 2022. The average rose 2.9% in 2024 after increases of 7.2% in 2023 and 14.8% in 2022. The average has risen 28.3% in the first four seasons of the current labor deal. Union figures are based on 2025 salaries, bonuses and prorated shares for 1,046 players. MLB has not yet finalized its 2025 average, which may differ slightly due to methodology.

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FILE - New York Mets right fielder Carlos Beltran lunges for the ball during the third inning of an MLB baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, April 22, 2011 in New York. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)

Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame

Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones have been elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame. Beltrán, in his fourth ballot appearance, received 84.2% of the votes from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. Jones, in his ninth appearance, was picked on 78.4% of ballots. Beltrán’s vote percentage has steadily increased since 2023. He was also briefly hired as the New York Mets’ manager in 2019. Jones started with just 7.3% in 2018 but has steadily climbed. They will be inducted in Cooperstown, New York, on July 26, along with second baseman Jeff Kent.

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FILE - New York Mets right fielder Carlos Beltran lunges for the ball during the third inning of an MLB baseball game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, April 22, 2011 in New York. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)

Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones appear on track to gain election to the Baseball Hall of Fame

Carlos Beltrán and Andruw Jones appear on track to gain election to the Baseball Hall of Fame on Tuesday. As of Monday evening, Beltrán had been picked on 89.2% of ballots revealed early on Ryan Thibodaux’s online vote-tracker, while Jones was at 83%, both surpassing the 75% needed for induction. Beltrán, in his fourth ballot appearance, has steadily increased his support since 2023. Jones, on his ninth ballot, has also seen significant growth since his first appearance in 2018. If elected, they would be inducted on July 26 alongside Jeff Kent. Other candidates like Chase Utley and Félix Hernández seem likely to fall short this year.

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FILE - Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal throws during the first inning in Game 5 of baseball's American League Division Series against the Seattle Mariners, Oct. 10, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

Tarik Skubal asks for record $32 million in arbitration while Detroit Tigers offer $19 million

Two-time AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal asked for a record $32 million in salary arbitration while the Detroit Tigers offered the left-hander $19 million. Skubal was the most prominent of the 166 players eligible for arbitration at the start of the day who swapped figures with their teams. Those without agreements face hearings before three-person panels from Jan. 26 to Feb. 13. A two-time All-Star, the 29-year-old Skubal will be eligible for free agency after the World Series. He is 54-37 with a 3.08 ERA in six major league seasons.

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Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks at a new conference at Major League Baseball's office in New York on Jan. 8, 2026, announcing a volunteer initiative with Foster Love to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. (AP Photo/Ron Blum)

9 FanDuel network teams end deals, MLB prepared to produce and distribute broadcasts

Nine Major League Baseball teams have ended their deals with the FanDuel Sports Network for local broadcasts. Commissioner Rob Manfred says MLB is ready to produce and distribute the games. Main Street Sports Group, which runs FanDuel networks, missed a payment to the St. Louis Cardinals. It also carries games for other MLB, NBA, and NHL teams. Manfred assures fans will still see games, whether through Main Street, a third party, or MLB media. MLB previously took over broadcasts for several teams after missed payments. Local media provides over 20% of industry revenue.

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FILE - Los Angeles Dodgers World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto holds his trophy as teammates celebrate their win in Game 7 of baseball's World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Toronto. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis, File)

Los Angeles Dodgers to pay record $169 million luxury tax after winning 2nd straight World Series

The Los Angeles Dodgers will pay a record $169.4 million luxury tax after winning their second straight World Series title, raising their two-year total to $272.4 million. The New York Mets have the second-highest tax bill among the nine teams that pay at $91.6 million despite missing the 12-team playoffs, raising their tax owed to $320.3 million in the last four years under high-spending owner Steve Cohen. The Dodgers will pay tax for the fifth straight season. The Dodgers’ total broke the previous high of $103 million they had set last year.

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New York Mets pitcher Clay Holmes and wife Ashlyn, play Santa and Mrs. Claus during the baseball team’s holiday party, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Ronald Blum)

Holmes is sad to see Alonso, DĂ­az and Nimmo leave Mets but trusts front-office retool decisions

Clay Holmes is sad over the departure of New York Mets stars Pete Alonso, Edwin DĂ­az and Brendan Nimmo, noting their strong connection with fans. Alonso signed with Baltimore, DĂ­az joined the Dodgers and Nimmo was traded to Texas. Holmes, who is entering his second season with the Mets, will be joined by former Yankees closers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver. The Mets also have signed infielder Jorge Polanco. Holmes, who shifted to the starting rotation last season, is optimistic about the team’s direction despite the changes.

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Edwin DĂ­az speaks during his introduction as a new member of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

Dodgers owe $1.06 billion in deferred money to 9 players through 2047 after Edwin DĂ­az deal

Edwin Díaz won’t receive all of his $69 million from the Dodgers until 2047, with the closer’s deal raising deferred payment obligations for the two-time World Series champions to more than $1.06 billion due to nine players. As part of the three-year contract announced Friday, Díaz gets a $9 million signing bonus payable on Feb. 1, according to terms obtained by The Associated Press. He receives a $14 million salary next year and $23 million in each of the following two seasons. The Dodgers will defer $4.5 million annually.

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FILE - Philadelphia Phillies' Kyle Schwarber connects for a double during the first inning in Game 4 of baseball's National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Oct. 9, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

New contracts and newborns go together for Phillies’ Kyle Schwarber

Kyle Schwarber has signed a $150 million, five-year deal to stay with the Philadelphia Phillies just before the expected birth of a daughter. He shared Wednesday how he rushed to Philadelphia for contract formalities and then returned to Ohio to be with his family. Schwarber turns 33 in March. He had a standout year with 56 homers and 132 RBIs. He expressed his desire to continue contributing to the Phillies and compete for World Series titles. Phillies president Dave Dombrowski emphasized Schwarber’s impact on the team since joining. Schwarber won a World Series title with the Cubs in 2016.

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Dave Roberts, manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, answers questions during a news conference at the MLB winter meetings, Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Roberts says World Baseball Classic a ‘very delicate’ matter for Ohtani, Yamamoto and Sasaki

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts isn’t sure about restrictions for Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki in the World Baseball Classic. Ohtani had elbow surgery in September 2023 and helped the Dodgers win the World Series. Roberts says discussions about their participation are ongoing. Ohtani, a four-time MVP, might focus on hitting rather than pitching for Japan in the WBC. Roberts emphasized the importance of representing their country but acknowledged potential costs. The Dodgers plan to have Ohtani in the starting rotation next season, with a flexible schedule to keep him rested.

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FILE - Former Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Barry Bonds acknowledges the crowd during a ceremony for players that are part of the team's 2024 Hall of Fame class before a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds in Pittsburgh, Aug. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger, File)

Hall of Fame chair thinks Bonds, Clemens denied entry by committee for same views held by writers

Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens face only one more chance to enter baseball’s Hall of Fame under current rules. Hall chairman Jane Forbes Clark believes the contemporary era committee evaluates the Steroids Era like baseball writers. Bonds and Clemens received fewer than five votes from the committee that elected Jeff Kent. Clark says discussions among writers influence the committee. Candidates with fewer than five votes are ineligible for the next three-year cycle. If Bonds and Clemens fail again in 2031, they would be barred from future ballots unless rules change. This opens spots for other candidates.

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FILE - Los Angeles Dodgers Jeff Kent hits a two-run home run against the San Francisco Giants in the fourth inning of a baseball game in San Francisco, Sept. 26, 2008. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)

Jeff Kent elected to baseball Hall of Fame, which again keeps doors shut for Bonds and Clemens

Jeff Kent has been elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame by the contemporary era committee, while steroids-tainted stars Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens were among seven players who fell short once again. Kent appeared on 14 of 16 ballots, two more than the 12 ballots needed for the 75% minimum. Carlos Delgado received nine votes, followed by Don Mattingly and Dale Murphy with six each, Bonds, Clemens, Gary Sheffield and Fernando Valenzuela each received fewer than five votes. Kent will be inducted at the hall in Cooperstown, New York, on July 26.

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FILE - Texas Rangers' Adolis Garcia, surrounded by teammates and staff, holds up the Commissioner's Trophy during a World Series baseball championship celebration, Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

Adolis GarcĂ­a among 66 non-tender free agents, while Jonathan India tops 34 agreeing to contracts

Texas outfielder Adolis García, catcher Jonah Heim and right-hander Josh Sborz were among 66 players who became free agents Friday when they weren’t offered 2026 contracts. New York Yankees relievers Mark Leiter Jr., Ian Hamilton, Scott Effross and Jake Cousins also were cut loose along with Boston first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, Houston infielder/outfielder Ramón Urías and Chicago White Sox outfielder Mike Tauchman. Thirty-four players agreed to contracts ahead of the non-tender deadline, led by Kansas City infielder Jonathan India, newly acquired Atlanta utilityman Mauricio Dubón and Yankees pitcher Clarke Schmidt, who will miss all or most of the season while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

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MLB commissioner Rob Manfred speaks prior to Game 2 of baseball's World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, in Toronto. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

MLB will comply with Senate’s request for gambling investigation documents, commissioner says

Major League Baseball says it will comply with a Senate committee’s request for documents on gambling investigations. Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell sent a letter to Commissioner Rob Manfred asking for information by Dec. 5. This follows indictments of Cleveland pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, who are accused of taking bribes to rig pitches. They have pleaded not guilty. Manfred says MLB’s internal investigation has no timetable. MLB is also aiding players who have received threats related to gambling. Manfred avoided discussing management’s positions in collective bargaining for a new labor contract.

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani, pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto and pitcher Roki Sasaki celebrate after their win against the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 7 of baseball's World Series, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Toronto. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

After the $500 million Dodgers’ title repeat, what’s next for MLB?

The $500 million Los Angeles Dodgers’ thrilling World Series win over the Toronto Blue Jays attracted record international attention for Major League Baseball, affirmed LA’s status as the sport’s best team and drew more attention to baseball’s payroll disparity heading into what is likely to be contentious labor negotiations. Los Angeles’ 5-4, 11-inning win over Toronto in Game 7 on Saturday night capped a postseason with seven winner-take-all games, two more than any previous year.

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Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage celebrates the end on the seventh inning in Game 5 of baseball's World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Yesavage strikes out 12 as rookie pitches Blue Jays past Dodgers 6-1 for 3-2 lead in World Series

Trey Yesavage set a World Series rookie record with 12 strikeouts, and the Toronto Blue Jays opened Game 5 with back-to-back homers in a 6-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers that moved them within one win of their first championship since 1993. Davis Schneider and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. connected on Blake Snell’s first and third pitches, the first consecutive home runs to start a Series game. Yesavage, a precocious 22-year-old right-hander who began his season pitching before 327 fans in Class A, broke the prior rookie record of 11 strikeouts set by Don Newcombe for the Dodgers in 1949. Toronto leads 3-2 in the best-of-seven matchup and can dethrone the defending champions back home when the Series resumes Friday night at Rogers Centre.

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FILE - Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) and his son, Charlie Freeman, participate in batting practice before a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim, Calif., June 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis, File)

Up past bedtime, Charlie Freeman still missed dad Freddie’s World Series homer

Charlie Freeman missed watching his dad, Freddie Freeman, hit a one of his biggest home runs. Freddie said Charlie, who turned 9 in September, was in the family room when the Los Angeles Dodgers won 6-5 against the Toronto Blue Jays on Freeman’s 18th-inning home run that ended World Series Game 3. Charlie had to catch the replay after hearing the cheers. The Dodgers have created a family-friendly atmosphere, with players like Clayton Kershaw also having clubhouse spaces for their kids. The team aims to attract and retain top talent, signing stars like Shohei Ohtani and Blake Snell in recent years.

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Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Trey Yesavage speaks during a World Series baseball media day, Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, in Toronto. The Toronto Blue Jays face the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 on Friday. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Take it from the top: Toronto’s Trey Yesavage uses unusually high arm angle to his advantage

Trey Yesavage, a 22-year-old rookie for the Toronto Blue Jays, is getting attention with his unusual pitching style. He starts Game 5 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday night. Yesavage has a high arm angle and an unusually high release point. Yesavage began the season in Class A and quickly moved up. His pitching mix includes fastballs, sliders and splitters. Yesavage’s postseason performance has been mixed.

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Toronto Blue Jays' pitcher Shane Bieber yells in his glove as he leaves the game during the sixth inning in Game 4 of baseball's World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Back from Tommy John surgery, Shane Bieber elbows Shohei Ohtani right out of the spotlight

Shane Bieber outshined Shohei Ohtani in his World Series debut. Bieber, a former Cy Young Award winner, returned from Tommy John surgery two months ago. He led Toronto to a 6-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, tying the World Series at two games each. Bieber struck out Ohtani twice while allowing one run and four hits in 5 1/3 innings. Bieber was traded by Cleveland to Toronto at the July 31 deadline for minor league right-hander Khal Stephen.

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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts speaks prior to Game 4 of baseball's World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Dodgers’ Roberts against extending ghost runner to postseason. Blue Jays’ Schneider not sure

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is against using the automatic runner rule for extra innings in the World Series. Blue Jays manager John Schneider isn’t sure. Roberts and Schneider addressed the possibility a day after the Dodgers beat the Blue Jays 6-5 in 18 innings in Game 3 to take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven matchup. The automatic runner rule has been used in the regular season since 2020. Each team starts every extra inning with a runner at second base. Among 209 extra-inning games this season, all ended by the 13th.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Freddie Freeman celebrates his walk off home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the 18th inning in Game 3 of baseball's World Series, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

Dodgers produce 18-inning World Series sequel, `The Late, Late Sho’

The Dodgers have won a thrilling 18-inning game against the Toronto Blue Jays, taking a two-to-one lead in the World Series. Freddie Freeman hit a home run to secure the 6-5 victory for Los Angeles. Shohei Ohtani had another impressive performance, reaching base nine times. The game lasted over six hours and saw 609 pitches thrown. Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw came out of the bullpen in the 12th inning. Los Angeles used a record 10 pitchers in the game.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani celebrates their win against the Toronto Blue Jays during the 18th inning in Game 3 of baseball's World Series, Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

The Dodgers’ historic World Series Game 3 victory, by the numbers

The Los Angeles Dodgers outlasted the Toronto Blue Jays with a 6-5, 18-inning win in Game 3 of the World Series on Monday night, producing a lengthy list of records topped by Shohei Ohtani as they took a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven matchup. Ohtani was the Dodgers’ designated hitter a day before he is to pitch in Game 4 and had one of the most memorable games at the plate in World Series history.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani works out ahead of Game 3 of the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays in Los Angeles, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

Ohtani has one place he doesn’t want to hear the ‘We don’t need you!’ chant — at home

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way star, jokes about not wanting to hear the “We don’t need you!” chant from his family. Blue Jays fans chanted during the World Series opener because he signed with the Dodgers instead of Toronto. Ohtani is hitting .224 in 12 postseason games with six homers and make his Series mound debut in Game 4 on Tuesday. He is 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA in his postseason mound starts. Ohtani hopes his performances inspire more two-way players.

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani celebrates their win against the Milwaukee Brewers in baseball's National League Championship Series, Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, in Los Angeles.(AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Blue Jays in World Series for first time since before Ohtani was born, while Dodgers seek to repeat

The Toronto Blue Jays are back in the World Series for the first time since 1993. They host the Los Angeles Dodgers in Friday night’s opener. The Dodgers are aiming to become the first repeat winners since the Yankees from 1998 to 2000. Shohei Ohtani leads the Dodgers with standout performances both at bat and on the mound. Toronto manager John Schneider feels the pressure of representing an entire country. Toronto hopes to secure its first title since back-to-back championships in 1992 and ’93.

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New York Yankees' Aaron Judge reacts after striking out against the Toronto Blue Jays during the eighth inning of Game 4 of baseball's American League Division Series, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Yankees’ Aaron Judge doesn’t need surgery, Volpe and RodĂłn had operations and could miss opening day

Yankees star Aaron Judge won’t need surgery on his elbow but shortstop Anthony Volpe and left-hander Carlos Rodón had operations this week and could miss opening day. Judge’s throwing was limited after he hurt the flexor tendon in his right elbow in July. Manager Aaron Boone says an MRI after the team was eliminated last week showed “no surgery is going to be needed.” Volpe had surgery Tuesday with Dr. Christopher Ahmad to repair the labrum in his left shoulder. Boone said he can start hitting in four months but can’t dive on it for six months. Rodón was operated on by Dr. Neal ElAttrache to remove loose bodies in his left elbow and shave a bone spur.

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New York Yankees' Aaron Judge reacts after striking out against the Toronto Blue Jays during the eighth inning of Game 4 of baseball's American League Division Series, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Aaron Judge remains without World Series ring as Yankees’ title drought reaches 16 years

Aaron Judge’s brilliant season wasn’t enough to end the New York Yankees’ championship drought. The Yankees lost to Toronto in the AL Division Series, marking their 16th consecutive season without a World Series title. Judge hit .500 in seven playoff games but couldn’t carry the team to victory. Despite winning his first AL batting crown and being on a Hall of Fame track, Judge remains without postseason success. The Yankees’ bullpen and rotation faltered against Toronto, and the team faces potential roster changes. Gerrit Cole, recovering from Tommy John surgery, expects to return by May, but the Yankees need a bullpen rebuild.

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Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider talks to reporters at Yankee Stadium in New York, Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Hat trick: The Blue Jays think their 1992 World Series-style caps are a lucky charm

The Toronto Blue Jays have found success after switching to retro caps with white panels. Relief pitcher Jeff Hoffman suggested the change after the team lost six out of seven games, dropping into a tie with the New York Yankees for the AL East lead. Since adopting the 1992 World Series-style hats, the Blue Jays have gone 5-0. They now lead the Yankees 2-0 in their best-of-five AL Division Series. The team wore the caps in July for the first time since 2022, breaking them out for a Hall of Fame weekend promotion. Players have embraced the change, sticking with the white-panel hats and navy jerseys.

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Toronto Blue Jays' George Springer walks on the field during batting practice at Yankee Stadium in New York, Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Yankees would accomplish a rare feat if they come back down 0-2 in best-of-5 series vs. Blue Jays

The Yankees are facing a tough challenge as they trail 0-2 against Toronto in their AL Division Series. The Blue Jays have dominated, scoring the most runs of any team in its first two postseason games. Historically, teams with a 2-0 lead in a best-of-five series have won 80 out of 90 times. Yankees manager Aaron Boone emphasizes focusing on winning each pitch. Carlos RodĂłn will pitch for the Yankees, while Shane Bieber will start for Toronto. The Blue Jays have been wearing retro caps since September 25, and they are undefeated in them since the switch.

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New York Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler delivers against the Boston Red Sox during the eighth inning of Game 3 of an American League wild-card baseball playoff series, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Schlittler’s playoff gem for Yankees against rival Red Sox prompts Boone to say `A star is born’

Cam Schlittler has become an instant star for the New York Yankees, delivering a dominant performance against the rival Boston Red Sox in a playoff elimination game. The 24-year-old rookie pitched eight overpowering innings with 12 strikeouts and no walks as New York beat Boston 4-0, advancing to the Division Series against Toronto. Schlittler, who grew up a Red Sox fan in Massachusetts, prepared by speaking with Yankees great Andy Pettitte. Schlittler’s fastball reached 100 mph, and the right-hander struck out more batters than any other Yankees pitcher in a postseason debut. New York manager Aaron Boone praised Schlittler’s fearless approach.

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New York Yankees' Cam Schlittler pitches during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Flamethrowers rule mound as right-hander average 4-seam fastball reaches 95 mph

Flamethrowers have dominated the mound in the major leagues this year. The average four-seam fastball among right-handed pitchers has reached 95 mph for the first time. According to MLB Statcast, average velocity has increased for seven straight seasons. Reliever Mason Miller, traded from Oakland to San Diego in July, reached 100 mph with a big league-high 422 pitches. A study released by MLB last December concluded that rising velocities and maximum effort are likely causes of the vast increase in pitcher injuries. Home runs rose to 1.16 per game, while stolen bases and strikeouts per team per game dropped.

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Los Angeles Dodgers two-way player Shohei Ohtani (17) center, celebrates after the Dodgers clinched the National League West title against the Arizona Diamondbacks during a baseball game at Chase Field Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)

MLB spending disparity on display in playoffs as $509 million Dodgers take on $121 million Reds

Baseball’s economic disparity is evident in the playoffs. The Los Angeles Dodgers have committed over $500 million in salaries and luxury tax this season. They face the Cincinnati Reds, who have a $121 million payroll. Six of the 12 postseason teams have payrolls of $200 million or more. The Dodgers lead with a $341.5 million payroll and nearly $168 million in luxury tax. The New York Mets, despite spending $428.8 million, didn’t make the playoffs. The Yankees, with the third-highest spend, face the Red Sox. Cleveland has the lowest payroll among playoff teams at $103.9 million.

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New York Yankees' Max Fried pitches during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Red Sox and Yankees meet in high-profile Wild Card Series starting Tuesday

Aaron Judge prefers to focus on the Yankees’ upcoming Wild Card Series against Boston rather than past losses. Despite beating the Orioles and finishing with a 94-68 record, the Yankees lost the division title to Toronto on a tiebreaker. The Yankees will host the Red Sox in a best-of-three series starting Tuesday. Boston’s Garrett Crochet and New York’s Max Fried start the opener in a matchup of top left-handers, followed by Brayan Bello of the Red Sox and Carlos RodĂłn of the Yankees in Game 2. The Yankees have home-field advantage due to a better record than Boston.

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Philadelphia Phillies' Trea Turner fouls the ball off during the third inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)

Trea Turner wins NL batting title with record-low .304 average, and Aaron Judge leads majors at .331

Philadelphia’s Trea Turner won his second National League batting title with a record-low .304 average, and the New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge earned his first American League championship by leading the major leagues at .331. San Diego’s Tony Gwynn had the previous low for an NL champion at .313 in 1988. The only lower average by any batting champion was .301 by Boston’s Carl Yastrzemski, who won the AL title in 1968. Turner, who went 0 for 2 on Sunday in his return from a strained right hamstring, was the NL’s only .300 hitter. The previous low of three was set in 2022 and matched last year.

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New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton, left, celebrates with Aaron Judge after a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

AL East race goes down to final day with Yankees and Blue Jays tied for lead

The New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays are tied atop the AL East at 93-68 going into the final day of the regular season. The Blue Jays hold the head-to-head tiebreaker, having won the season series against the Yankees. On Sunday, Luis Gil will pitch for the Yankees against Baltimore, while Kevin Gausman will face Tampa Bay in Toronto. The division winner will be the AL’s top playoff seed. The runner-up likely will host Boston in a Wild Card Series starting Tuesday. New York seeks its second straight AL East title, while Toronto aims for its first since 2015.

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New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton smiles after hitting a two-run home run during the third inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

With 23 homers and 64 RBIs in 75 games, Stanton’s half season better than most players’ full years

Giancarlo Stanton’s performance this season has been impressive despite being sidelined until mid-June with elbow injuries. He has hit 23 homers with 64 RBIs in 75 games after his pair of two-run homers and five RBIs led Yankees over the Orioles 8-4. New York remained tied with Toronto for the AL East lead with two games left, though the Blue Jays hold the tiebreaker. Aaron Judge, nearing his first batting title, hit a go-ahead, two-run homer. The Yankees have won 51 of the 58 games where both Stanton and Judge have homered., including the postseason.

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New York Yankees' Max Fried pitches during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Fried Rice combo sparks jokes among Yankees pitcher Max Fried and catcher Ben Rice

A Fried Rice combo left Ben Rice hungering to yuk it up with Max Fried. About to catch his Yankees teammate for the first time, the New York catcher couldn’t wait to mention the battery word play when he walked into the pregame meeting. “It’s such a layup of a joke I had to say it right right when we got in there,” Rice said after Fried pitched the Yankees over the Chicago White Sox 8-1. “First Fried Rice combo of the year.” Fried became the major leagues’ first 19-game winner. He is 6-0 with a 1.55 ERA in his last seven starts.

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FILE - Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred speaks during a news conference, June 29, 2019, in London. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland, file)

MLB drops plan for London games in 2026, says nearing deals TV with NBC, ESPN, Netflix, Apple

Major League Baseball has canceled plans to play games in London next season due to scheduling conflicts with West Ham’s Olympic Stadium and TV commitments. MLB wanted the Yankees and Blue Jays to play in London in June, but West Ham’s schedule and Fox’s World Cup coverage made it impossible. Commissioner Rob Manfred confirmed the decision on Tuesday. MLB played in London in 2019, 2023 and 2024. Manfred said MLB remains interested in Europe and is working on initiatives in India and Mexico. MLB has expanded its presence in Asia.

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Texas Rangers pitcher Jacob deGrom reacts during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets, Friday, Sept. 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Jacob deGrom gets present in Citi Field return: a 6-run lead before throwing his first pitch

Jacob deGrom received a present in his return to Citi Field: a six-run lead before he threw a pitch. He was greeted with applause when he came out to warm up before his first appearance against the New York Mets since leaving in December 2022. A two-time Cy Young Award winner who went 82-57 in nine seasons for the Mets, deGrom received a somewhat muted response when he took the mound only because fans were stunned when the Texas Rangers knocked out rookie Josh Tong after two outs in a 22-minute top of the first.

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New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone reacts during the third inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

Baseball’s biggest spenders are stumbling, with the Dodgers, Mets and Yankees beset by injuries

Baseball’s top spenders are struggling with injuries and roster challenges as the trade deadline approaches. The New York Mets, with a big league-high $326 million payroll, lead the NL East but have a losing record since mid-June. The Los Angeles Dodgers, spending just $200,000 less, lead the NL West but have also struggled since early July. The New York Yankees, third in spending, have lost their division lead due to a poor stretch since late May. Despite being playoff contenders, these teams haven’t met expectations. Injuries have forced them to use numerous starting pitchers and adjust lineups frequently.

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In latest bat flip flap, big league players side with Little Leaguer

Jazz Chisholm Jr. criticized the attempted suspension of a Little Leaguer for a bat flip, calling it “ridiculous.” The incident involved 12-year-old Marco Rocco from New Jersey, who ejected for unsportsmanlike behavior after a home run on July 16. His father, a lawyer, challenged the suspension in court and won. Marco played Thursday for Haddonfield, New Jersey, on Thursday and ent 0 for 2. Toronto pitcher Max Scherzer and others have weighed in, with Scherzer supporting emotional displays in the game. Baseball has increasingly embraced emotion, with notable moments like JosĂ© Bautista’s 2015 bat flip gaining attention.

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Philadelphia Phillies' Kyle Schwarber celebrates as he runs for a single during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees Friday, July 25, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Schwarber’s 1,000th hit is 319th homer, topping McGwire for most to the mark

Kyle Schwarber reached 1,000 hits with his 319th home run, surpassing Mark McGwire for the most home runs among players with 1,000 hits in major league history.  Schwarber hit two two-run homers in a 12-5 win over the New York Yankees. His first homer started a comeback from a 2-0 deficit. Schwarber, who is 32 and eligible for free agency this fall, has been a key player for the Phillies. He has 36 homers this season, just three shy of the major league leader. Phillies fans and management have expressed their desire to keep him.

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Dr. David Altchek poses in his office filled with sports memorabilia in New York, Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Dr. David Altchek, Mets medical director and Tommy John surgery pioneer, dies at 68

Dr. David Altchek, a renowned orthopedic surgeon and longtime New York Mets medical director, has died at 68. Altchek told associates last year he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He performed more than 2,400 Tommy John surgeries during his career and was instrumental in developing the “docking procedure,” a breakthrough technique for the surgery. In addition to serving as the Mets’  medical director, he held prominent roles in sports medicine, including with the ATP Tour and U.S. Davis Cup team.

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Miami's Kyle Stowers challenge is being reviewed during eighth inning at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Cal Raleigh successful as 4 of 5 challenges reverse calls in first All-Star use of robot umpire

Seattle catcher Cal Raleigh successfully used the robot umpire to gain a strikeout for pitcher Tarik Skubal in the first inning of the All-Star Game. He changed an 0-2 pitch to a strike on San Diego’s Manny Machado. Four of five challenges of plate umpire Dan Iassogna’s calls were successful in the first All-Star use of the ABS system, which could make its regular-season debut next year. The players’ association is unsure whether the Automated Ball-Strike System is accurate enough. A decision for 2026 use likely will be considered by sport’s 11-man competition committee.

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Philadelphia Phillies Kyle Schwarber celebrates after winning the tiebreaker at the MLB baseball All-Star game between the American League and National League, Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

Kyle Schwarber’s 3 homers in All-Star Game’s first tiebreaking swing-off lift NL over AL

Kyle Schwarber went 3 for 3 in the first All-Star Game home run swing-off to put the National League ahead 4-3 following a 6-6 tie in which the American League rallied from a six-run deficit. In baseball’s equivalent of soccer’s penalty-kicks shootout, the game was decided by having three batters from each league take three swings each off coaches. The change was agreed to in 2022 to alleviate the concern of teams running out of pitchers. Schwarber was named All-Star MVP after going 0 for 2 with a walk in the game.

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MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks during the first round of the MLB baseball draft Sunday, July, 13, 2025 in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

A lockout is looming over MLB in December 2026, with a salary cap fight possibly at the center

Major League Baseball faces a potential lockout in December 2026. Players and management have long clashed over salary cap proposals, a format that union head Tony Clark criticizes as harmful to competition and player salary guarantees. Commissioner Rob Manfred argues the cap could address payroll disparities as MLB also tries to deal with declining revenue from regional sports networks. Teams like the Dodgers and Mets have pushed payrolls to record levels, highlighting disparity. Baseball’s collective bargaining agreement expires in December 2026, and past negotiations have led to nine work stoppages.

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FILE - Major League Baseball Players Association Executive Director Tony Clark answers a question during a news conference in New York on March 11, 2022. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)

Major League Baseball, union could let big leaguers in 2028 Olympics during extended All-Star break

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred and players’ union head Tony Clark say plans are moving ahead exploring the possibility of using major leaguers in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, a tournament that could be played on an extended All-Star break. MLB met with Los Angeles organizers Monday in Atlanta ahead of the All-Star Game and Manfred said the Olympic officials were meeting with the Major League Baseball Players Association. The World Baseball Softball Confederation said Monday the baseball tournament will be played from July 15-20 at Dodger Stadium. Manfred says “We’ll see whether there’s any movement on that.”

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Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh, watches with his dad Todd who pitched and brother Todd Jr. catcher during the MLB baseball All-Star Home Run Derby, Monday, July 14, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

With family support, Cal Raleigh becomes first catcher, switch-hitter to win Home Run Derby

Seattle’s Cal Raleigh won his first All-Star Home Run Derby after leading the big leagues in long balls going into the break, defeating Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero 18-15 in the final round. The Mariners’ breakout slugger nicknamed Big Dumper advanced from the first round on a tiebreaker by less than an inch over the Athletics’ Brent Rooker, then won his semifinal 19-13 over Pittsburgh’s Oneil Cruz, whose 513-foot first-round drive over Truist Park’s right-center field seats was the longest of the night. Hitting second in the final round, the 22-year-old Caminero closed within three dingers, took three pitches and hit a liner to left field.

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FILE - The Automated Ball-Strike System plays on the scoreboard after a pitch call was challenged during the first inning of a spring training baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and the San Diego Padres, Feb. 26, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

Robot umpires to make All-Star Game debut, another step toward possible regular-season use in 2026

Major League Baseball is testing automated ball-strike systems in the All-Star Game for the first time. The system, used in some minor leagues since 2019, allows teams two challenges per game, retaining them if successful. All-Star starters Tarik Skubal of Detroit and Paul Skenes of Pittsburgh say pitchers often think everything is a strike. Clayton Kershaw believes the system works if it’s adjusted for player height, which it does. During spring training tests, teams won 52.2% of challenges.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani scores against the San Francisco Giants during the 11th inning of a baseball game in San Francisco, Sunday, July 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Shohei Ohtani to hit leadoff for NL in All-Star Game, followed by Ronald Acuña Jr. of host Braves

Shohei Ohtani will bat leadoff as the designated hitter for the National League in Tuesday’s MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced the NL lineup, with Ronald Acuña Jr. batting second and Ketel Marte third. Paul Skenes of the Pirates will start for the NL, while Detroit’s Tarik Skubal will pitch for the AL. Gleyber Torres will lead off for the AL, followed by Riley Greene and Aaron Judge. Skenes and Skubal rank first and second in fastball velocity this season. Skenes has a 2.01 ERA, while Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, holds a 2.23 ERA.

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Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Charlie Morton (50) delivers during the second inning in the first baseball game of a doubleheader against the New York Mets, Thursday, July 10, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)

Curveballs are disappearing in MLB as velocity obsession reshapes pitching landscape

Curveballs are disappearing from Major League Baseball as pitchers prioritize velocity, emphasizing sliders and sweepers. Curveball usage dropped from 10.7% in 2019 to 8.4% this season, with 22,962 fewer thrown in 2024 than five years earlier. Pitchers and coaches say the focus has shifted to harder, faster pitches that generate more swings and misses. Batters are hitting .225 against curveballs this season, lower than fastballs. The game continues evolving toward power and speed.

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New York Yankees' Aaron Judge (99) runs after hitting a two run home run during the inning of a baseball game against the , Saturday, July 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Aaron Judge becomes fastest to 350 homers, doing so in 1,088 games, bettering Mark McGwire’s 1,280

Aaron Judge didn’t just become the fastest player to hit 350 home runs, he did it in 192 fewer games than Mark McGwire. Judge homered to right-center on a high 0-2 fastball from Brad Keller, a two-run, ninth-inning drive a couple rows into the right-center field seats during the New York Yankees’ 5-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs. He reached 350 in his 1,088th game. McGwire hit No.350 in his 1,280th game, against Detroit’s Brian Moehler on June 2, 1997, bettering Harmon Killebrew in his 1,319th game

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New York Yankees pitcher Max Fried (54) throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Saturday, July 12, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yankees All-Star Max Fried forced from start by index finger blister, which caused 4 past IL stints

Yankees All-Star left-hander Max Fried left a start against the Chicago Cubs after a season-low three innings because of a a blister on his left index finger. Fried was on the injured list for blisters on his left index finger in 2018, ’19, ’21 and ’23. Fried allowed nine of 18 batters to reach, giving up four runs — three earned — six hits and three walks. He threw just 39 of 73 pitches for strikes, falling behind with first-pitch balls to nine batters.

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New York Yankees players celebrate with outfielder Aaron Judge, center, after the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, July 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yankees’ Aaron Judge makes 3 outstanding catches, robs Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong of home run

Aaron Judge made three outstanding catches in right field, robbing Pete Crow-Armstrong of a home run, Dansby Swanson of a single and Kyle Tucker of a two-run hit in the New York Yankees’ 11-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 6-foot-7 Judge leaped at the right-field wall to catch a 327-foot drive by Crow-Armstrong against Carlos Rodón in the fourth inning, denying what would have been Crow-Armstrong’s 26th home run. Judge then rushed in and dove for a backhand grab on Swanson’s sinking liner for the third out of the inning and made a sliding catch on Tucker in the eighth.

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New York Yankees' Cody Bellinger hits a home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs, Friday, July 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Yanks’ Cody Bellinger hits 3rd home run of game against Cubs, an inning after being robbed

Cody Bellinger hit three two-run homers, leading the New York Yankees to an 11-0 win over the Chicago Cubs. Facing his former team, Bellinger homered in a three-run third off Chris Flexen and in the fifth against Caleb Thielbar. Bellinger nearly went deep in the seventh but was robbed by Kyle Tucker on a drive above the right-field wall. Bellinger homered in the eighth off Jordan Wicks, just above the glove of leaping center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Traded to the Yankees in December, Bellinger is batting .406 during a career-high 16-game hitting streak.

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New York Mets' Jeff McNeil (1) celebrates with Brett Baty (7) after scoring on his two-run home run during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Friday, July 4, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis)

Jeff McNeil’s home run and sparkling defensive play carry Mets past Yankees in Subway Series

Jeff McNeil’s clutch performance helped the New York Mets secure a thrilling 6-5 win over the Yankees in their Subway Series opener at Citi Field. McNeil hit a go-ahead, two-run homer in the seventh inning off Luke Weaver and made a diving play at second base in the ninth to prevent a potential rally. The Mets overcame two deficits, while the Yankees squandered leads of 2-0 and 5-3. The Mets have won three straight after losing 14 of 17, while the Yankees have lost five in a row. Both teams were in first place when they met at Yankee Stadium in May but have faded badly of late.

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New York Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Jr. reacts after hitting a three-run scoring triple during the third inning of a baseball game against the Athletics, Sunday, June 29, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Jazz Age at Yankee Stadium as Chisholm sparks Yankees at plate, on defense and in clubhouse

The Jazz Age is in full swing at Yankee Stadium. Whether with his bat, his glove, his arm or his smile, Jazz Chisholm Jr. is energizing the New York Yankees and their fans. Chisholm hit a second-inning, go-ahead homer and a bases-loaded triple while making three sparkling defensive plays at third base in a 12-5 romp over the Athletics. Chisholm is batting .318 with six homers, 18 RBIs and four stolen bases since returning from strained right oblique on June 3, raising his season totals to .242 with 13 homers, 35 and 10 steals in 53 games.

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New York Yankees pitcher Ryan Yarbrough winds up during a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox, Friday, June 13, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Jim Davis)

Yarbrough goes on injured list in another hit to Yankees pitching, Winans to make New York debut

The New York Yankees pitching took another hit when Ryan Yarbrough was put on the 15-day injured list with a strained right oblique. A 33-year-old right-hander, Yarbrough is 3-1 with a 3.90 ERA in eight starts and eight relief appearances. New York already was missing ace Gerrit Cole (Tommy John surgery), AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil (lat strain) and Marcus Stroman (knee). Rookie Allan Winans will make his Yankees debut on Monday night at Cincinnati after going 7-0 with an 0.90 ERA at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

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New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton bats during the first inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Monday, June 16, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith)

Giancarlo Stanton makes season debut for Yankees after missing first 70 games

Giancarlo Stanton got two hits in his season debut for the Yankees against the Los Angeles Angels after missing New York’s first 70 games because of inflammation in the tendons of both elbows. Stanton received a standing ovation when he came to the plate with two on and two outs in the first inning. Batting fifth, the designated hitter hit a 101.5 mph groundout to third on the first pitch. He then grounded a sinker to left against José Soriano for a 111.1 mph single in the fourth.

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New York Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Jr. hits an RBI single during the second inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox, Friday, June 6, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr. has The Seventy Percent Solution

Jazz Chisholm Jr. has The Seventy Percent Solution. While most athletes talk about the urge to give 100% or even 110%, the New York Yankees infielder thinks his success since returning from the injured list has been caused by limiting his intensity. Chisholm hit a three-run, go-ahead homer in the first inning and four RBIs to spark the Yankees over the Boston Red Sox 9-6 in the first meeting this year of AL East rivals. He says: “Just go at 70%. That’s what’s been working for me.”

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FILE - MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks at the SBJ CAA World Congress of Sport, April 22, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)

Trump’s support of Rose among the voices Manfred listened to in ruling MLB ban ended with death

President Donald Trump’s support of Pete Rose was among the factors Major Legaue Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred weighed when he decided last month that permanent bans by the sport ended with death, which allows the career hits leader to be considered for the Hall of Fame. Manfred announced the new interpretation on May 13, a decision that allows Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson to be considered for a Hall committee vote in December 2027. Manfred also said computer technology to appeal ball/strike calls could be in place for the 2026 regular season.

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Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani stands on second base during the third inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets Friday, May 23, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith)

Shohei Ohtani likely won’t make big league mound return until after All-Star break

On the eve of Shohei Ohtani facing batters for the first time since elbow surgery in September 2023, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the two-way star likely won’t return to a major league mound until after the All-Star break. Ohtani is to pitch batting practice before Sunday night’s series finale against the New York Mets. Roberts says “he’s doing his first simulated game for two innings and in theory you got to build a starter up to five, six innings.” He adds: “And so just the natural progression, I just don’t see it being before that.”

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