Baseball – Winnipeg Free Press

Kennedy, Frazier among 5 to sign minor deals with Rangers

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 8:31 PM CST

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Veteran right-hander Ian Kennedy and outfielder Clint Frazier were among five players the Texas Rangers signed Friday to minor league contracts that included invitations to major league spring training.

Left-hander Danny Duffy, right-hander Reyes Moronta and outfielder Travis Jankowski also got invitations to spring training in Arizona.

The 38-year-old Kennedy returns to Texas after going to 4-7 with 10 saves and a 5.36 ERA in 57 relief appearances for the Arizona Diamondbacks last season. Kennedy had 16 saves and a 2.51 ERA in 31 relief appearances in 2021 for the Rangers before being traded to Philadelphia in a deadline deal. The 16-year veteran is a former starter who became a reliever in 2019.

Frazier, a first-round draft pick by Cleveland in 2013, batted .216 in 19 games for the Chicago Cubs last season before being designated for assignment on June 10. He spent the rest of the season with Triple-A Iowa, batting .190 in 66 games. He played for the New York Yankees from 2017-21.

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Remaining Free Agents

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Remaining Free Agents

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 6:56 PM CST

NEW YORK (AP) — The 62 remaining free agents:

AMERICAN LEAGUE

BALTIMORE (2) — Robinson Chirinos, c; Rougned Odor, 2b.

BOSTON (1) — Michael Wacha, rhp.

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Yesterday at 6:56 PM CST

NEW YORK (AP) — The 62 remaining free agents:

AMERICAN LEAGUE

BALTIMORE (2) — Robinson Chirinos, c; Rougned Odor, 2b.

BOSTON (1) — Michael Wacha, rhp.

Free agent Jesús Aguilar reaches $3M, one-year deal with A’s

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Free agent Jesús Aguilar reaches $3M, one-year deal with A’s

The Associated Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 5:29 PM CST

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — The Oakland Athletics and slugger Jesús Aguilar agreed to a $3 million, one-year contract Friday.

The 32-year-old Aguilar batted .235 with 16 homers, 51 RBIs and a .661 OPS in 129 games for the Marlins and Orioles last season. He was leading the Marlins with 15 homers and 49 RBIs but was hitting only .236 when they released him in late August after falling out of NL wild-card contention.

Oakland general manager David Forst expects Aguilar to split time between first and DH while playing every day.

___

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Yesterday at 5:29 PM CST

OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — The Oakland Athletics and slugger Jesús Aguilar agreed to a $3 million, one-year contract Friday.

The 32-year-old Aguilar batted .235 with 16 homers, 51 RBIs and a .661 OPS in 129 games for the Marlins and Orioles last season. He was leading the Marlins with 15 homers and 49 RBIs but was hitting only .236 when they released him in late August after falling out of NL wild-card contention.

Oakland general manager David Forst expects Aguilar to split time between first and DH while playing every day.

___

RHP Fairbanks, Rays agree to $12 million, 3-year contract

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

RHP Fairbanks, Rays agree to $12 million, 3-year contract

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 4:33 PM CST

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Reliever Pete Fairbanks and the Tampa Bay Rays avoided arbitration when they agreed Friday to a $12 million, three-year contract that could be worth up to $24.6 million over four seasons.

The deal includes salaries of $3,666,666 this year and $3,666,667 in each of the next two seasons. The Rays have a $7 million option for 2026 with a $1 million buyout.

His 2024 and 2025 salaries could increase by $300,000 each based on games finished in the previous season: $150,000 each for 35 and 40.

Tampa Bay's option price could increase by up to $6 million, including $4 million for appearances: $1 million each for 60 and 70 in 2025; $500,000 for 125 from 2023-25 and $1 million each for 135, 150 and 165 from 2023-25. The option price could increase by $2 million for games finished in 2025: $500,000 each for 25, 30, 35 and 40.

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Yesterday at 4:33 PM CST

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Reliever Pete Fairbanks and the Tampa Bay Rays avoided arbitration when they agreed Friday to a $12 million, three-year contract that could be worth up to $24.6 million over four seasons.

The deal includes salaries of $3,666,666 this year and $3,666,667 in each of the next two seasons. The Rays have a $7 million option for 2026 with a $1 million buyout.

His 2024 and 2025 salaries could increase by $300,000 each based on games finished in the previous season: $150,000 each for 35 and 40.

Tampa Bay's option price could increase by up to $6 million, including $4 million for appearances: $1 million each for 60 and 70 in 2025; $500,000 for 125 from 2023-25 and $1 million each for 135, 150 and 165 from 2023-25. The option price could increase by $2 million for games finished in 2025: $500,000 each for 25, 30, 35 and 40.

Royals make official deal with veteran reliever Chapman

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Royals make official deal with veteran reliever Chapman

The Associated Press 2 minute read Yesterday at 3:40 PM CST

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals signed veteran reliever Aroldis Chapman to a $3.75 million, one-year contract Friday, a week after agreeing to terms with the seven-time All-Star, who is coming off a lackluster season with the New York Yankees.

Chapman was once known for consistently throwing 100 mph fastballs past woebegone hitters. But the left-hander, who will be 35 on opening day, was 4-4 with a 4.46 ERA in his final season with the Yankees, who ultimately left him off their AL Division Series roster when his actions raised questions about his dedication to the team.

Chapman had spent time on the injured list with Achilles tendinitis in May, then lost the closer job to Clay Holmes. He was on the IL again in August for a leg infection following a tattoo, then missed a mandatory team workout for the playoffs.

The Royals are gambling that he can help what was one of baseball's worst bullpens last season. The relievers had a 4.66 ERA, fourth-worst in the majors, and the team had done little to upgrade this offseason until recently trading away injury-prone shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and outfielder Michael A. Taylor for a trio of pitching prospects.

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Yesterday at 3:40 PM CST

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals signed veteran reliever Aroldis Chapman to a $3.75 million, one-year contract Friday, a week after agreeing to terms with the seven-time All-Star, who is coming off a lackluster season with the New York Yankees.

Chapman was once known for consistently throwing 100 mph fastballs past woebegone hitters. But the left-hander, who will be 35 on opening day, was 4-4 with a 4.46 ERA in his final season with the Yankees, who ultimately left him off their AL Division Series roster when his actions raised questions about his dedication to the team.

Chapman had spent time on the injured list with Achilles tendinitis in May, then lost the closer job to Clay Holmes. He was on the IL again in August for a leg infection following a tattoo, then missed a mandatory team workout for the playoffs.

The Royals are gambling that he can help what was one of baseball's worst bullpens last season. The relievers had a 4.66 ERA, fourth-worst in the majors, and the team had done little to upgrade this offseason until recently trading away injury-prone shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and outfielder Michael A. Taylor for a trio of pitching prospects.

Joe Mauer will become 38th member of Twins Hall of Fame

The Associated Press 1 minute read Preview

Joe Mauer will become 38th member of Twins Hall of Fame

The Associated Press 1 minute read Yesterday at 3:37 PM CST

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Joe Mauer will be the next addition to the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame.

Mauer will become the 38th member of the group when he's inducted on Aug. 5 before the Twins host Arizona, the team announced Friday.

Mauer was the 2009 AL MVP. He won three batting titles — the only AL catcher to do so — and also received three Gold Glove awards.

Mauer is eligible for the National Baseball Hall of Fame for the first time next year.

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Yesterday at 3:37 PM CST

FILE - Minnesota Twins' Joe Mauer celebrates his home run with Twins' third base coach Gene Glynn against the Detroit Tigers in the first inning during a baseball game Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018, in Minneapolis. Joe Mauer will be the next addition to the Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame. Mauer will become the 38th member of the group when he’s inducted on Aug. 5, 2023 before the Twins host Arizona. (AP Photo/Andy Clayton-King, File)

Braves sign manager Snitker to extension through 2025 season

Charles Odum, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Braves sign manager Snitker to extension through 2025 season

Charles Odum, The Associated Press 3 minute read Yesterday at 3:35 PM CST

ATLANTA (AP) — Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker, coming off the team's fifth consecutive NL East title, signed a contract extension on Friday that runs through the 2025 season.

Snitker, 67, guided the Braves to the 2021 World Series championship before the team won 101 games last season.

Snitker said Saturday he is excited about the future of the Braves, who have locked up many core players to long-term deals despite losing shortstop Dansby Swanson and first baseman Freddie Freeman as free agents in back-to-back offseasons.

Snitker applauded the work of general manager Alex Anthopoulos in signing newly acquired catcher Sean Murphy and others to long-term deals.

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Yesterday at 3:35 PM CST

FILE - Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker speaks with members of the media during a baseball National League Division Series news conference ahead of Game 4 against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, in Philadelphia. Braves manager Brian Snitker, coming off the team's fifth consecutive NL East title, signed a contract extension through the 2025 season, Friday, Jan. 27, 2023.(AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

Ray Herbert, Detroit sandlot ace and 1962 AL All-Star, dies

Ryan Kryska, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Ray Herbert, Detroit sandlot ace and 1962 AL All-Star, dies

Ryan Kryska, The Associated Press 4 minute read Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

Ray Herbert, a 1962 All-Star Game winning pitcher who threw batting practice for his hometown Detroit Tigers for decades after retiring, died peacefully in Plymouth, Michigan, five days after his 93rd birthday.

Herbert started his big league career with Detroit in 1950 and pitched for four teams over 14 seasons. He was a 20-game winner for the White Sox in 1962, then led the American League with seven shutouts in 1963 with Chicago.

Herbert was a part of a generation of Detroiters who flocked to the diamonds of the city's historic Northwestern Field, a sandlot that turned out players such as Willie Horton, Bill Freehan and Frank Tanana. It was famed Tigers scout “Wish” Egan who spotted Herbert and his older brother, Donald, on the field so loaded with talent that sponsors, reporters and scouts alike were in attendance.

Herbert died Dec. 20 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease, his brother Richard Herbert said. He was born Dec. 15, 1929.

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Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

FILE - Philadelphia Phillies baseball pitcher Ray Herbert smiles March 1965, in Clearwater, Fla. Herbert, a 1962 American League All-Star winning pitcher who threw batting practice for his hometown Detroit Tigers for decades after retiring, died peacefully in Plymouth, Mich., on Dec. 20, 2022, five days after his 93rd birthday. (AP Photo/Harry Harris, File)

Athletics trade LHP Cole Irvin to Orioles for minor leaguer

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Athletics trade LHP Cole Irvin to Orioles for minor leaguer

The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

BALTIMORE (AP) — The Baltimore Orioles acquired left-hander Cole Irvin from the Oakland Athletics on Thursday along with minor league right-hander Kyle Virbitsky for minor league infielder Darell Hernaiz.

Oakland had already dealt catcher Sean Murphy to the Braves this offseason after last year's trade-heavy winter sending away several stars: Matt Olson to Atlanta, Matt Chapman to Toronto and Chris Bassitt to the Mets.

The 28-year-old Irvin went 9-13 with a career-best 3.98 ERA over 30 starts for the last-place A's, who lost 102 games in manager Mark Kotsay's first season.

Hernaiz is a shortstop prospect who reached Double-A last season.

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Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

FILE - Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Cole Irvin throws to the plate during the first inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels on Sept. 29, 2022, in Anaheim, Calif. The Baltimore Orioles acquired Irvin from the Oakland Athletics on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, along with minor league right-hander Kyle Virbitsky for minor league infielder Darell Hernaiz. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

Voth, Orioles avoid arbitration, agree at $1.85 million

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Voth, Orioles avoid arbitration, agree at $1.85 million

The Associated Press 2 minute read Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

BALTIMORE (AP) — Right-hander Austin Voth avoided a salary arbitration hearing with the Baltimore Orioles, agreeing Thursday to a $1.85 million, one-year contract.

Voth's deal includes a $2.45 million team option for 2024 that can escalate by up to $500,000 based on starts this year: $100,000 for 12 and each additional three through 24.

His 2023 salary is at the midpoint between the $2 million he had asked for and the $1.7 million offered by the Orioles when proposed arbitration salaries were exchanged on Jan. 13.

The 30-year-old Voth was 5-4 with a 3.04 ERA in 17 starts and five relief appearances for the Orioles last season, striking out 72 and walking 25 in 83 innings.

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Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

FILE - Baltimore Orioles pitcher Austin Voth delivers against the New York Yankees in the third inning of a baseball game on Oct. 1, 2022, in New York. Voth avoided a salary arbitration hearing with the Orioles, agreeing Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, to a $1.85 million, one-year contract. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

Brown hired as general manager of Houston Astros

Kristie Rieken, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Brown hired as general manager of Houston Astros

Kristie Rieken, The Associated Press 4 minute read Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

HOUSTON (AP) — In joining the World Series champion Houston Astros, new general manager Dana Brown's goal is to keep the team at the top of the league.

“I’m coming to a winning team and a big part of what I want to do is sustain the winning long term,” he said. “We want to continue to build, continue to sign good players, continue to develop players and continue the winning success.”

Brown was hired by the Astros on Thursday, replacing James Click, who was not given a new contract and parted ways with the Astros just days after they won the World Series.

Brown spent the last four seasons as the vice president of scouting for the Atlanta Braves.

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Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

A’s running out of time to find home in Oakland, Las Vegas

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 7 minute read Preview

A’s running out of time to find home in Oakland, Las Vegas

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press 7 minute read Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The Oakland Athletics have spent years trying to get a new stadium while watching Bay Area neighbors such as the Giants, Warriors, 49ers and Raiders successfully move into state-of-the-art venues, and now time is running short on their efforts.

The A's lease at RingCentral Coliseum expires after the 2024 season, and though they might be forced to extend the terms, the club and Major League Baseball have deemed the stadium unsuitable for a professional franchise.

They are searching for a new stadium in Oakland or Las Vegas, but they have experienced difficulties in both areas. The A's missed a major deadline in October to get a deal done in Oakland, and there has been little indication they will receive the kind of funding they want from Las Vegas.

“I think the A’s have to look at it in a couple of ways,” said Brendan Bussmann, managing partner at Las Vegas-based B Global. “Obviously, they have struggled in Oakland to get a deal across the line. It isn’t for a lack of effort. … You have an owner that’s willing to pony up money, you have a club that wants to sit there and figure out a way to make it work, and you keep running into obstacles along the way.

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Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023

This artists rendering provided by BIG/Oakland A's show the proposed stadium for the Oakland Athletics baseball team in Oakland Calif. The Oakland Athletics have spent years trying to get a new stadium while watching Bay Area neighbors the Giants, Warriors, 49ers and Raiders successfully move into state-of-the-art venues, and now time is running short on their efforts.(BIG/Oakland A's via AP)

Jeffrey Springs, Rays agree to $31 million, 4-year contract

The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Jeffrey Springs, Rays agree to $31 million, 4-year contract

The Associated Press 4 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Left-hander Jeffrey Springs became the first of the 33 players who exchanged proposed arbitration salaries with their teams to reach a deal, agreeing Wednesday to a $31 million, four-year contract with the Tampa Bay Rays that could be worth $65.75 million over five seasons.

The 30-year-old Springs was among seven Rays who swapped arbitration figures with the team on Jan. 13. He began last season in the bullpen, transitioned to the starting rotation in May and finished 9-5 with a 2.46 ERA in 33 appearances, including 25 starts. He is 14-6 with a 2.70 ERA in 76 outings — 51 of them in relief — since he was acquired from Boston in February 2021.

Rays president of baseball operations Erik Neander said the sides had been working toward an agreement for weeks and that Springs — drafted in the 30th round by the Texas Rangers in 2015 — has earned the opportunity to be a big part of Tampa Bay's future.

“Jeffrey’s journey in baseball is a story of constant development and improvement. It’s a heck of a story,” Neander said, noting Springs was not drafted high and spent time with multiple organizations before landing with the Rays and becoming an important component of the team's success.

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Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

FILE -Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Jeffrey Springs delivers against the Cleveland Guardians during the first inning of a baseball game Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, in Cleveland. Left-hander Jeffrey Springs became the first of the 33 players who exchanged proposed arbitration salaries with their teams to reach a deal, agreeing Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023 to a $31 million, four-year contract with the Tampa Bay Rays that could be worth $65.75 million over five seasons.(AP Photo/Ron Schwane, File)

Beltré, Mauer eligible for Baseball Hall of Fame next year

Noah Trister, The Associated Press 4 minute read Preview

Beltré, Mauer eligible for Baseball Hall of Fame next year

Noah Trister, The Associated Press 4 minute read Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

Scott Rolen is headed to the Hall of Fame. Next year, make way for another star third baseman.

Adrián Beltré highlights the first-time eligibles for 2024. While Rolen's election Tuesday capped an impressive six-year rise in his vote total, Beltré has a good chance to go in on the first ballot. Although he was never an MVP, he finished his career with 3,166 hits, 477 home runs and five Gold Gloves, remaining productive all the way through his final season at age 39.

Joe Mauer, Chase Utley, David Wright, José Bautista and Matt Holliday are also expected to make their debuts on the ballot next year. Mauer is the only catcher to win three batting titles and was the American League MVP in 2009.

It was no surprise that several players made big jumps in the voting this year. Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens and Curt Schilling — all of whom received majority support but fell short of the 75% threshold for induction — weren't on the ballot anymore. Since there's a 10-player maximum for each voter, when candidates like that are no longer an option, others can benefit.

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Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023

FILE - Texas Rangers' Adrian Beltre smiles in the dugout during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Seattle Mariners after he was replaced by Jurickson Profar at third base, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)

Red Sox complete $7 million deal with Duvall, cut Barnes

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Red Sox complete $7 million deal with Duvall, cut Barnes

The Associated Press 3 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

BOSTON (AP) — Adam Duvall and the Boston Red Sox finalized their $7 million, one-year contract Tuesday.

The veteran outfielder can earn another $3 million in performance bonuses based on plate appearances. The sides agreed to terms last week, pending a physical.

To make room for Duvall on the 40-man roster, Boston cut former closer Matt Barnes — an All-Star in 2021 and a key member of the Red Sox bullpen for much of his nine-year career.

In a surprise move, the 32-year-old Barnes was designated for assignment, meaning the team has seven days to trade, release or send him outright to the minors. The right-handed reliever has more than $10.6 million remaining on his contract.

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

BOSTON (AP) — Adam Duvall and the Boston Red Sox finalized their $7 million, one-year contract Tuesday.

The veteran outfielder can earn another $3 million in performance bonuses based on plate appearances. The sides agreed to terms last week, pending a physical.

To make room for Duvall on the 40-man roster, Boston cut former closer Matt Barnes — an All-Star in 2021 and a key member of the Red Sox bullpen for much of his nine-year career.

In a surprise move, the 32-year-old Barnes was designated for assignment, meaning the team has seven days to trade, release or send him outright to the minors. The right-handed reliever has more than $10.6 million remaining on his contract.

Remaining Free Agents

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Remaining Free Agents

The Associated Press 2 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — The 67 remaining free agents:

AMERICAN LEAGUE

BALTIMORE (3) — Jesús Aguilar, 1b; Robinson Chirinos, c; Rougned Odor, 2b.

BOSTON (1) — Michael Wacha, rhp.

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — The 67 remaining free agents:

AMERICAN LEAGUE

BALTIMORE (3) — Jesús Aguilar, 1b; Robinson Chirinos, c; Rougned Odor, 2b.

BOSTON (1) — Michael Wacha, rhp.

Mike Clevinger investigated by MLB for domestic violence

The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Mike Clevinger investigated by MLB for domestic violence

The Associated Press 3 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Clevinger is being investigated by Major League Baseball following an allegation of domestic violence.

Olivia Finestead publicly revealed the allegations in an Instagram post Tuesday. Clevinger, a 32-year-old right-hander and a six-year major league veteran, agreed to a $12 million, one-year contract as a free agent that was announced on Dec. 4.

“MLB opened an investigation after learning of these allegations,” the team said in a statement. “The White Sox were not aware of the allegations or the investigation at the time of his signing. The White Sox will refrain from comment until MLB’s investigative process has reached its conclusion.”

Jay Reisinger, a lawyer for Clevinger, issued a statement that said, “Mike emphatically denies the accusations made by Ms. Finestead."

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

FILE -San Diego Padres starting pitcher Mike Clevinger throws during the first inning in Game 4 of the baseball NL Championship Series between the San Diego Padres and the Philadelphia Phillies on Oct. 22, 2022, in Philadelphia. Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Clevinger is being investigated by Major League Baseball following an allegation of domestic violence, Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023.(AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)

Scott Rolen elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame

Ronald Blum, The Associated Press 5 minute read Preview

Scott Rolen elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame

Ronald Blum, The Associated Press 5 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — Scott Rolen sat with his son in the parking lot outside Indiana's Bloomington South High School in 2018, waiting to coach grade schoolers in basketball and listening on the radio for results of his first appearance on baseball's Hall of Fame ballot.

“`Dad, I think you're getting in,'” Rolen recalled 10-year-old Finn predicting.

Rolen received 10.2% of the vote, double the 5% minimum to remain on the ballot the following year but far short of the 75% needed for election.

“`Did we win?'” dad remembered his son asking. “I said, `Oh, we won. Yes, we won.'”

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

FILE - St. Louis Cardinals Scott Rolen and teammate Albert Pujols celebrate as Detroit Tigers Ramon Santiago walks off the field after the St. Louis Cardinals defeated Detroit Tigers in Game 5 of the World Series in St. Louis, Oct. 27, 2006. Rolen could become just the 18th third baseman elected to baseball's Hall of Fame, the fewest of any position. Rolen, Todd Helton and Billy Wagner are the leading contenders in the Baseball Writers' Association of America vote announced Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023.(AP Photo/Tom Gannam, File)

Mets sign outfielder Tommy Pham to $6 million, 1-year deal

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Mets sign outfielder Tommy Pham to $6 million, 1-year deal

The Associated Press 2 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Mets signed veteran outfielder Tommy Pham to a one-year contract for $6 million Tuesday, adding to their busy offseason.

Pham can earn another $2 million in performance bonuses based on plate appearances. He provides depth and a dangerous bat, giving New York a proven fourth outfielder and a right-handed option at designated hitter to complement lefty Daniel Vogelbach.

The 34-year-old Pham spent last season with Cincinnati and Boston, batting .236 overall with 17 home runs, 63 RBIs and a .686 OPS. He scored 89 runs in 144 games.

“Tommy adds another versatile right-handed bat to our lineup,” general manager Billy Eppler said in a statement. “His ability to grind through at bats, stay within the strike zone, impact the baseball, and run the bases is a valuable addition to our ballclub.”

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

FILE -Cincinnati Reds' Tommy Pham (28) celebrates with teammates after scoring on a Donovan Solano double during the third inning of a baseball game against the Miami Marlins, Monday, July 25, 2022, in Cincinnati. The New York Mets signed veteran outfielder Tommy Pham to a one-year contract Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, adding to their busy offseason. (AP Photo/Jeff Dean, File)

Royals get LHP Taylor from Boston for oft-injured SS Mondesi

Dave Skretta, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Royals get LHP Taylor from Boston for oft-injured SS Mondesi

Dave Skretta, The Associated Press 3 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Royals acquired left-hander Josh Taylor from the Boston Red Sox for injury-prone shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and an additional player on Tuesday, the second straight day that Kansas City dealt one of its surplus position players in a bid to upgraded its lackluster bullpen.

The 30-year-old Taylor missed all of last season with a back injury, but he was stellar over the previous three seasons in Boston, with a 3.69 ERA and 129 strikeouts over 121 appearances. At one point during the 2021 season, he had a streak of 26 consecutive scoreless outings, the longest streak for a left-hander in franchise history.

He also pitched in six of 11 postseason games for the Red Sox in '21, allowing one earned run over four innings pitched.

“Josh Taylor is someone we've valued for a long time,” Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said. “If you go back and look at what he did in 2019 in Boston and what he did again in 2021 in Boston in a playoff run, it was really really impressive.”

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

FILE - Kansas City Royals' Adalberto Mondesi bats against the Seattle Mariners on Saturday, April 23, 2022, in Seattle. The Royals acquired left-hander Josh Taylor from the Boston Red Sox for injury-prone shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and an additional player on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, the second straight day that Kansas City dealt one of its surplus position players in a bid to upgraded its lackluster bullpen.(AP Photo/Stephen Brashear, File)

Police recover Guardians manager Francona’s stolen scooter

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Police recover Guardians manager Francona’s stolen scooter

Tom Withers, The Associated Press 2 minute read Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

CLEVELAND (AP) — The case of the stolen scooter has been solved.

Cleveland police recovered Guardians manager Terry Francona's beloved two-wheeled ride on Tuesday night after it was swiped from outside his downtown apartment this past weekend.

A team spokesman said police located the scooter and arrangements were being made for Francona to pick it up Wednesday. The scooter was being stored with the Cleveland Police traffic unit motorcycles.

Francona, who was named AL Manager of the Year last season, has been riding a scooter from his residence to Progressive Field for years.

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Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023

FILE - Cleveland Guardians manager Terry Francona looks on from the dugout before Game 4 of a baseball AL Division Series against the New York Yankees, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, in Cleveland. The scooter that Francona rides from his downtown Cleveland apartment to Progressive Field was swiped over the weekend. Francona’s scooter was parked outside his residence. A team spokesman said police were notified of the theft, which happened late Friday night or early Saturday Jan. 21. (AP Photo/Phil Long, File)

Twins acquire veteran OF Michael A. Taylor from Royals

Dave Campbell, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Twins acquire veteran OF Michael A. Taylor from Royals

Dave Campbell, The Associated Press 3 minute read Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Twins acquired veteran Michael A. Taylor from the Kansas City Royals on Monday night, adding depth and defense to their outfield in exchange for two relief pitching prospects.

The 31-year-old Taylor batted .254 with nine home runs and 43 RBIs in 414 at-bats last season for the Royals, his second year with the club after spending his first seven major league seasons with the Washington Nationals.

The Twins sent 23-year-old right-hander Steven Cruz and 25-year-old left-hander Evan Sisk to the Royals.

Taylor’s best offensive season came in 2017 with the Nationals, when he hit .271 with 19 homers, 53 RBIs and an .806 OPS in 118 games. His greatest value is in the grass, though. Taylor was a Gold Glove winner in his Royals debut in 2021 and gives the Twins a third outfielder on their roster who has won the award, joining Byron Buxton (2017) and newcomer Joey Gallo (2020 and 2021).

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Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

FILE - Kansas City Royals' Michael A. Taylor (2) scores with Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh waiting for the throw during the 10th inning of a baseball game April 24, 2022, in Seattle. The Minnesota Twins have acquired veteran outfielder Taylor for more depth and better defense from the Kansas City Royals for two relief pitching prospects. (AP Photo/John Froschauer, File)

Remaining Free Agents

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Remaining Free Agents

The Associated Press 2 minute read Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — The 70 remaining free agents:

AMERICAN LEAGUE

BALTIMORE (3) — Jesús Aguilar, 1b; Robinson Chirinos, c; Rougned Odor, 2b.

BOSTON (2) — Tommy Pham, of; Michael Wacha, rhp.

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Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

NEW YORK (AP) — The 70 remaining free agents:

AMERICAN LEAGUE

BALTIMORE (3) — Jesús Aguilar, 1b; Robinson Chirinos, c; Rougned Odor, 2b.

BOSTON (2) — Tommy Pham, of; Michael Wacha, rhp.

Nelson Cruz, Padres finalize $1 million, 1-year contract

The Associated Press 2 minute read Preview

Nelson Cruz, Padres finalize $1 million, 1-year contract

The Associated Press 2 minute read Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Longtime slugger Nelson Cruz and the San Diego Padres finalized a $1 million, one-year contract on Monday.

The sides agreed to the deal on Jan. 11, pending a physical.

The right-handed-hitting Cruz, who turns 43 on July 1, is expected to platoon at designated hitter with 37-year-old lefty hitter Matt Carpenter, who signed a one-year deal with the Padres last month.

Cruz is a seven-time All-Star and four-time Silver Slugger Award winner who has 459 home runs in 18 big league seasons. He had 10 homers and 64 RBIs in 124 games with Washington last year. He didn’t play after Sept. 13 due to an eye condition that required offseason surgery.

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Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Longtime slugger Nelson Cruz and the San Diego Padres finalized a $1 million, one-year contract on Monday.

The sides agreed to the deal on Jan. 11, pending a physical.

The right-handed-hitting Cruz, who turns 43 on July 1, is expected to platoon at designated hitter with 37-year-old lefty hitter Matt Carpenter, who signed a one-year deal with the Padres last month.

Cruz is a seven-time All-Star and four-time Silver Slugger Award winner who has 459 home runs in 18 big league seasons. He had 10 homers and 64 RBIs in 124 games with Washington last year. He didn’t play after Sept. 13 due to an eye condition that required offseason surgery.

Arte Moreno takes Angels off market, will continue as owner

Greg Beacham, The Associated Press 3 minute read Preview

Arte Moreno takes Angels off market, will continue as owner

Greg Beacham, The Associated Press 3 minute read Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno has decided not to sell the team.

Moreno took his franchise off the market Monday after announcing his plan to explore a sale of the team last August. The 76-year-old owner met with prospective buyers during the winter.

“During this process, it became clear that we have unfinished business and feel we can make a positive impact on the future of the team and the fan experience," Moreno said in a statement. “This offseason, we committed to a franchise record player payroll, and still want to accomplish our goal of bringing a World Series championship back to our fans.”

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said he is “very pleased" Moreno is staying in the game.

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Monday, Jan. 23, 2023

January 28, 2023