Alex Ovechkin has been cleared to resume full contact in practice, but the 39-year-old won't retu...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1280" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1280">Alex Ovechkin</a> has been cleared to resume full contact in practice, but the 39-year-old won't return to the Washington Capitals' lineup before the holiday break begins."We won't see him before the break, so the target will become some time after the break," coach Spencer Carbery said Friday, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/alex-ovechkin-injury-status-update-december-20">NHL.com's Tom Gulitti</a>."Whether it's that first game (is uncertain), but we won't see him in these next three."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Capitals' first game after the holiday break will be against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Dec. 28.Ovechkin has missed 13 games since he sustained a left fibula fracture in a collision with Utah Hockey Club's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11032" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11032">Jack McBain</a> on Nov. 18. He led the league with 15 goals in 18 games before sustaining the injury.The future Hall of Famer needs 27 goals to break Wayne Gretzky's NHL record of 894.

WASHINGTON, DC - NOVEMBER 02: Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals skates down the ice against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Capital One Arena on November 02, 2024 in Washington, DC.

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Ovechkin won't return before holiday break

The Boston Red Sox agreed to a two-year, $18.25-million deal with left-hander Patrick Sandoval, s...

The Boston Red Sox agreed to a two-year, $18.25-million deal with left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/10786" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/10786">Patrick Sandoval</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1870134970884252029">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.Sandoval is expected to return in the second half of the 2025 campaign after recovering from Tommy John surgery.This isn't the first time the Red Sox have inked a pitcher recovering from elbow surgery to a deal like this. They signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3164" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3164">James Paxton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2851" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2851">Liam Hendriks</a> to similar pacts in recent years.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Red Sox going down road they went with James Paxton and Liam Hendriks in signing a player In LHP Patrick Sanfoval coming off Tommy John with hopes the second year of the $18.25 million deal will represent the biggest payoff. Source confirms deal as first reported by <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffPassan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JeffPassan</a>— Ian Browne (@IanMBrowne) <a href="https://twitter.com/IanMBrowne/status/1870141424487780472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The 28-year-old Sandoval owns a 4.01 ERA and 3.96 FIP in 536 career innings across six campaigns, all with the Los Angeles Angels.Sandoval's best season came in 2022 when he authored a 2.91 ERA with 151 strikeouts in a career-high 148 2/3 innings. The southpaw was 94th percentile in breaking ball value and 79th percentile in pitching run value that year.The Red Sox are projected to begin the 2025 campaign with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9530">Tanner Houck</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10752">Kutter Crawford</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15514" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15514">Richard Fitts</a> in the starting rotation. Boston also has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4272">Lucas Giolito</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12582" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12582">Garrett Whitlock</a> as starting options. Both pitchers are recovering from elbow surgeries.

ANAHEIM, CA - AUGUST 28: Los Angeles Angels Pitcher Patrick Sandoval (43) pitches in first inning of an MLB game between the Texas Rangers and the Los Angeles Angels on August 28, 2019, at Angel Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, CA.

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Report: Red Sox, Sandoval agree to 2-year, $18.25M deal

The Toronto Blue Jays are willing to trade shortstop Bo Bichette if the price is right.   Executi...

The Toronto Blue Jays are willing to trade shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> if the price is right. Executives from three rival teams told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6008454/2024/12/19/blue-jays-vladimir-guerrero-bo-bichette-yankees/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a> that the Blue Jays aren't shopping the 26-year-old infielder but are open to dealing him for a high price.Toronto recently traded for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a>, a second baseman who also has experience at shortstop. He's signed through 2029 with a club option for 2030.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bichette has been an integral part of the Blue Jays' lineup since 2019 but is coming off the worst campaign of his career, which included a calf injury and a broken finger that required surgery. He hit .225/.277/.322 with four home runs and 31 RBIs in 81 games last season.Bichette led the Blue Jays in fWAR and recorded the most hits in the AL twice between 2019-2024.The shortstop is eligible for free agency at the end of the season and is set to earn $16.5 million in 2025.The Blue Jays are also in talks with first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> about a contract extension and appear to be involved in the sweepstakes for third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>, according to Rosenthal.

TORONTO, ON - MAY 10: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays returns to the dugout after striking out during a game against the Minnesota Twins at Rogers Centre on May 10, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Rival executives say Blue Jays open to trading Bichette

Here, we look at how Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury stack up against each another ahead of Saturda...

Here, we look at how Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury stack up against each another ahead of Saturday's rematch for the heavyweight championship of the world in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. One of the most anticipated rematches in heavyweight boxing history is almost here. Heavyweight champion Usyk will square off against former titleholder Fury on Saturday after the Ukrainian defeated the British giant by split decision in May.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The first fight between the two legends was highly contested, with Usyk appearing to win thanks to a dominant ninth round in which he nearly put Fury on the canvas. Fans and pundits are expecting similar fireworks in the second clash."You had your little chance to knock me out, didn't you b---h, and you couldn't do it," Fury told Usyk during a December interview with both fighters on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kT1ARkrNG5U">DAZN</a>."Hit me with 10 shots and couldn't do it. ... You're f---ed in the rematch. ... You know what's coming for you. I'm going to f--k you up, b---h."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kT1ARkrNG5U?si=VHIC3afgrtBtfFdz" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>Fury, who admits he's more focused ahead of the second bout, has done nothing but praise Usyk for handing him the first loss of his career. However, he has also said he believes he won their initial meeting and that the judges gave Usyk the victory because his country is at war."The Gypsy King" spent most of the first fight throwing counterpunches while working off his back foot. Fury said he doesn't plan to change his strategy even though he had success moving forward against the quicker Usyk.Usyk is thinking otherwise. "The Cat" said he intends to make changes because he wants a better result over Fury, who he called the best fighter he's ever faced."Because Tyson know what I do, and I know what Tyson do; it will be a different fight," Usyk told DAZN.Usyk was the aggressor in bout No. 1, moving forward with speed and precision. But his strategy also opened him up for a sharp right jab and uppercut from Fury in Round 6 that wobbled him twice.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6hVcBKxXTXc?si=B0aYqbn1sGB9C6WY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>The ever-reticent Usyk has kept his strategy for the second fight close to his chest. However, he's one of boxing's smartest fighters, so expect something significant from him in the rematch, whatever that may be.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-oAkk5" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/oAkk5/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="355" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();</script></figure>Usyk taking down Fury for a second time would help cement his legacy as one of this generation's great heavyweights and pound-for-pound fighters.If Fury gets revenge and hands Usyk the first loss of his career, the boxing world could be in store for the most epic trilogy of the 21st century.Saturday is a big night in Riyadh, and the world will be watching.

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 23: Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury face off during the Usyk v Fury 2 Press Conference ahead of their IBO, WBC and WBO World Heavyweight titles' fight at Guildhall on October 23, 2024 in London, England.

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Tale of the Tape: Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury 2

The New York Yankees have been one of the busiest teams of the offseason, and general manager Bri...

The New York Yankees have been one of the busiest teams of the offseason, and general manager Brian Cashman doesn't think he's finished."Happy with what we've done thus far, but (we) recognize that the competition in our division alone is rather daunting and everybody is going to try to do everything they can to take the World Series title away from the (Los Angeles) Dodgers," Cashman said Wednesday after the Yankees' introductory press conference for left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, according to <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1869441192422686793">SNY</a>."Got a lot of heavy lifting that we're doing currently, but more to be done."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cashman signed Fried to an eight-year, $218-million contract, then traded for closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> and former NL MVP <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> after the Mets outbid the Yankees for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> in free agency."Conversations will continue with free agents and trade partners," Cashman <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1869442010718838899">said</a>. "No guarantees, but we're trying to be aggressive and find ways to improve the team."Cashman said the Yankees will have an in-person meeting with Japanese pitching phenom Roki Sasaki, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisKirschner/status/1869448608908722317">The Athletic's Chris Kirschner</a>.The Yankees are also reportedly looking at first basemen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3836" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3836">Christian Walker</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1851" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1370" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1370">Carlos Santana</a>, and they've been linked to third basemen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a>."We're getting after it," Cashman said, according to <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1869442148740771859">SNY</a>. "Our intention is to find a way back to the World Series. Stay tuned."

WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - MARCH 12: New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman talks on the phone prior to a Grapefruit League spring training game between the Washington Nationals and the New York Yankees at FITTEAM Ballpark of The Palm Beaches on March 12, 2020 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Many professional and college sports are canceling or postponing their games due to the ongoing threat of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

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Cashman plans to stay aggressive after Yankees' additions

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to be interested in bringing in some extra Canadian flavor.  Toronto...

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to be interested in bringing in some extra Canadian flavor.Toronto is among a group of teams in on right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8297" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8297">Nick Pivetta</a>, according to the <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1869176479315370104">New York Post's Jon Heyman</a>.Pivetta, who hails from Victoria, British Columbia, is one of the top remaining starters available in a free-agent market that still includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5646">Jack Flaherty</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4239">Sean Manaea</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Toronto's rotation was supposed to be a strength last season but finished 14th in ERA and 19th in FIP during the Blue Jays' down year.Projected 2025 rotation w/ 2024 stats<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PITCHER</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>K/9</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Kevin Gausman</td>
<td>181</td>
<td>3.83</td>
<td>3.77</td>
<td>8.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>José Berríos</td>
<td>192.1</td>
<td>3.60</td>
<td>4.72</td>
<td>7.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Bassitt</td>
<td>171</td>
<td>4.16</td>
<td>4.08</td>
<td>8.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bowden Francis</td>
<td>103.2</td>
<td>3.30</td>
<td>4.36</td>
<td>8.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yariel Rodriguez</td>
<td>86.2</td>
<td>4.47</td>
<td>4.34</td>
<td>8.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The 31-year-old Pivetta spent the past five seasons pitching in the AL East with the Boston Red Sox, where he authored a 4.29 ERA and 10.2 K/9 in 633 innings.He struck out 172 in 145 2/3 innings last season, which included five double-digit strikeout games.Pivetta rejected a $21.05-million qualifying offer from Boston in November, meaning the pitcher is tied to draft-pick compensation if he signs with anyone but the Red Sox.

Boston, MA - September 11: Boston Red Sox pitcher Nick Pivetta reacts after a strike out against the Baltimore Orioles during the fifth inning at Fenway Park. (Danielle Parhizkaran/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

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Report: Blue Jays interested in Canadian hurler Pivetta

Kyle Tucker hasn't suited up in a game for the Chicago Cubs and he's already open to a contract e...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> hasn't suited up in a game for the Chicago Cubs and he's already open to a contract extension."Definitely. Chicago's a great city to play in, great city in general, so I'm open for anything," Tucker said Tuesday, according to the <a href="https://x.com/M_Montemurro/status/1869104527733084280">Chicago Tribune's Meghan Montemurro</a>.Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said he's excited to bring in Tucker because he's the type of player Chicago needed on its roster, adding a contract extension is something that will be discussed in the future.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I don't know what the future holds," Hoyer said, according to <a href="https://x.com/maddie_m_lee/status/1869090443885175286">Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>."But obviously Chicago sells itself really well. And so, I'm excited to bring him in for this year, and we'll see where it goes beyond that. But clearly this was the kind of player that we lacked."Tucker was acquired in a four-player trade last week after the 27-year-old put together seven fantastic seasons with the Houston Astros, which included three All-Star Game appearances and a 2022 World Series championship.The Florida native slashed .274/.353/.516 with 125 home runs, 417 RBIs, and 94 steals in 633 games for the Astros before the trade. He also won a Gold Glove as a right fielder in 2022 after amassing 14 defensive runs saved.He's projected to earn $15.8 million through arbitration and will become a free agent for the first time at the end of the season.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - APRIL 28: Kyle Tucker #30 of the Houston Astros celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run in the first inning of a 2024 Mexico City Series game between the Houston Astros and the Colorado Rockies at Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium on Sunday, April 28, 2024 in Mexico City, Mexico.

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Tucker 'definitely' open to extension with Cubs after trade

Jordan Romano is excited about his opportunity with the Philadelphia Phillies, but he admits that...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8362">Jordan Romano</a> is excited about his opportunity with the Philadelphia Phillies, but he admits that being non-tendered by the Toronto Blue Jays was tough for him to process at first."Yeah, that was a little bit difficult," the 31-year-old pitcher recently said on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-phillies-reliever-jordan-romano-joins-the-show/id1738537069?i=1000680704809">"The Phillies Show."</a>"Took me a couple days for it to sink in. ... It was a little difficult for a few days for sure."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The veteran reliever from Markham, Ontario said being let go by his hometown team made things harder to swallow, especially after he spent six big-league seasons with the Blue Jays, which included 105 saves and two All-Star Game appearances."That was a difficult couple of days," he explained. "Nothing too crazy, but I was just a little bit bummed."Romano inked a one-year, $8.5-million deal with the Phillies shortly after he was let go by the Blue Jays. He's ecstatic to be joining an "unbelievable" team that won a division crown in 2024 and is already over being non-tendered by Toronto."Reliever, you know, so you've got to have a short memory," he said."It was a pretty quick turnaround. Feel like I've had a ton of training over the years, so that made the transition easier."

DETROIT, MI - MAY 25: Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Jordan Romano (68) walks to the dugout at the end of the eighth inning of a regular season Major League Baseball game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Detroit Tigers on May 25, 2024 at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan.

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Romano: 'Difficult couple of days' after Blue Jays non-tendered me

The market for Jack Flaherty is beginning to take shape.  The Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red So...

The market for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5646">Jack Flaherty</a> is beginning to take shape.The Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox appear to be interested in the free-agent right-hander, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5994597/2024/12/14/mariners-luis-castillo-trade-mlb-offseason-notes/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.Baltimore views Flaherty as a fallback option if it fails to re-sign right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a>, while the Red Sox should not be ruled out even after acquiring left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> in a trade last week, according to Rosenthal.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Flaherty appeared in nine games for the Orioles in 2023, but he underperformed after coming over in a trade from the St. Louis Cardinals. Orioles officials believe he was worn down that season, Rosenthal adds.Baltimore's projected rotation without Burnes - its ace last season - consists of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5202">Zach Eflin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8585">Dean Kremer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17501" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17501">Albert Suárez</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9579" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9579">Trevor Rogers</a>.Meanwhile, Boston's current rotation features Crochet, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9530" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9530">Tanner Houck</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10752">Kutter Crawford</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15514" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15514">Richard Fitts</a>.The 29-year-old Flaherty performed well in 2024, posting a combined 3.17 ERA and 10.8 K/9 in 28 starts for the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers. He also pitched 22 postseason innings for the Dodgers, allowing 18 earned runs and six homers in five outings.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 14: Jack Flaherty #0 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches in the first inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on September 14, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Report: Orioles, Red Sox connected to Flaherty

The Philadelphia Phillies continue to ask for a lot in return when teams ask about third baseman ...

The Philadelphia Phillies continue to ask for a lot in return when teams ask about third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10702" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10702">Alec Bohm</a>.Philadelphia requested hard-throwing closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16437">Mason Miller</a> when the Athletics inquired about Bohm, a source told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5994597/2024/12/14/mariners-luis-castillo-trade-mlb-offseason-notes/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.The Athletics ended the conversation after being asked for Miller.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Philadelphia also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3149884" href="https://thescore.com/news/3149884">reportedly</a> asked the Seattle Mariners for one of their top starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12378">George Kirby</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12376" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12376">Logan Gilbert</a> in exchange for Bohm.Bohm has been a popular trade target this offseason after he made his first All-Star team thanks to a 44-double campaign that included 97 RBIs and a .779 OPS (117 OPS+).Phillies manager Rob Thomson recently said the club isn't "trying to trade" the 28-year-old, who is under contract for two more seasons and projected to earn $8.1 million through arbitration.

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 05: Alec Bohm #28 of the Philadelphia Phillies returns to the dugout in the third inning during Game 1 of the Division Series presented by Booking.com between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, October 5, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Phillies asked for Miller after A's inquired about Bohm

Luis Arraez's tenure in San Diego might be a short one.  The Padres have discussed trading the in...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a>'s tenure in San Diego might be a short one.The Padres have discussed trading the infielder to provide them with payroll flexibility to shore up other areas of need, sources told <a href="https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2024/12/11/padres-depart-winter-meetings-with-sights-set-on-getting-better-for-less/">Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune</a>.Arraez is projected to earn $14.6 million through arbitration before hitting free agency at the end of the 2025 campaign.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The three-time batting champion won his third consecutive hitting crown with the Padres after slashing .318/.346/.398 following a trade with the Miami Marlins last May.Arraez is one of the league's best contact hitters and rarely strikes out, but he also ranked in the ninth percentile or lower last season in average exit velocity, barrel percentage, and hard-hit percentage.San Diego is reportedly fielding calls for right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a>, who also came over to the Padres last season and is in the mix for 10-time Gold Glove third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a> of the St. Louis Cardinals.The Padres have been linked to Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki, and manager Mike Shildt <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3155231" href="https://thescore.com/news/3155231">said</a> they should be "legitimate contenders" to acquire him.

SAN DIEGO, CA - AUGUST 21: Luis Arraez #4 of the San Diego Padres plays during a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, August 21, 2024 at Petco Park in San Diego, California.

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Report: Padres have discussed trading Arraez 

Garrett Crochet reflected Thursday on the historically bad campaign the Chicago White Sox endured...

<a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> reflected Thursday on the historically bad campaign the Chicago White Sox endured in 2024, one day after the left-hander was traded to the Boston Red Sox in a five-player deal."We truly seemed to be the most unlucky team, which happened to award us the most losingest team, which is tough," Crochet said, according to <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1867328192954216697">MLB.com's Scott Merkin</a>.He <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1867328015341945117">added</a>: "I remember so many games where I would get in the car on the way home and be like, 'What the f--k just happened?' The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3841">(Travis) Jankowski</a> robbing the home run. It was like, 'Dude, what is going on?'"<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Crochet was one of the few bright spots on a White Sox squad that set a modern-era record with 121 losses last season. The 25-year-old was the club's lone All-Star representative, ending the campaign with a 3.58 ERA, a 2.69 FIP, and 209 strikeouts in 146 innings.The pitcher's stellar campaign, years of club control, and low salary made him one of the offseason's most intriguing trade pieces. Crochet <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1867329095769432513">said</a> he and the White Sox never discussed an extension.Crochet admitted playing for one of the worst teams in history was tough but praised White Sox general manager Chris Getz for starting to rebuild the franchise properly since taking over."Immediately, when he took over the new role, I felt like he started going about it the right way, in terms of rebuilding the infrastructure from the ground up and making sure it’s a sustainable program for years and years to come," Crochet <a href="https://x.com/scottmerkin/status/1867328730236170600">said</a>.

DETROIT, MI - SEPTEMBER 29: Bryan Ramos #44 (L), Garrett Crochet #45 (C) and Jonathan Cannon #48 (R) of the Chicago White Sox and others look on during the final game of the year, against the Detroit Tigers, at Comerica Park on September 29, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Newly traded Crochet reflects on tough year with 'unlucky' White Sox

The San Francisco Giants might be looking to make another splash in free agency after signing sho...

The San Francisco Giants might be looking to make another splash in free agency after signing shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4784" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4784">Willy Adames</a> to a seven-year, $182-million contract.San Francisco is among a half-dozen teams showing interest in free-agent right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a>, according to the <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/12/11/sports/giants-and-blue-jays-making-strong-push-for-corbin-burnes/">New York Post's Jon Heyman</a>.Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey met with Burnes' agent, Scott Boras, late Tuesday, Heyman adds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Burnes is the top starter remaining in free agency after another tremendous season with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024. The 30-year-old posted a 2.92 ERA in 194 1/3 innings en route to finishing fifth in AL Cy Young voting.He's also finished top eight in Cy Young voting in five consecutive seasons, which included him winning the 2021 NL Cy Young with the Milwaukee Brewers.The Giants' projected rotation for next season is expected to feature ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10606">Logan Webb</a>, lefties <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4388">Robbie Ray</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15805" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15805">Kyle Harrison</a>, and right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9599" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9599">Jordan Hicks</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17633">Landen Roupp</a>.The Toronto Blue Jays are also among the teams interested in Burnes, according to Heyman. The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox were connected to Burnes before they acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>, respectively.

TORONTO, ON - JUNE 4: Corbin Burnes #39 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Toronto Blue Jays in the first inning at the Rogers Centre on June 4, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Giants met with Boras about free-agent ace Burnes

The Pittsburgh Pirates appear willing to deal two members of their starting rotation.  Pittsburgh...

The Pittsburgh Pirates appear willing to deal two members of their starting rotation.Pittsburgh is open to the idea of trading right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236">Mitch Keller</a>, and young hurler <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15909">Jared Jones</a> is "very available," a source told <a href="https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2024/12/11/rumors-winter-meetings-mitch-keller-jack-suwinski-bullpen-coach/stories/202412100091">Andrew Destin and Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette</a>.The Pirates are interested in moving Keller while his value is high in order to trim payroll and open funds to improve other areas of the roster, according to Destin and Hiles.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Keller inked a five-year, $77-million extension with the Pirates last February and went on to post a 4.25 ERA in 178 innings.Jones, meanwhile, has looked like a future piece of the Pirates' rotation behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a>. The 23-year-old pitched well in his debut season, authoring a 4.14 ERA with 132 strikeouts in 121 2/3 frames. He has multiple years of control left and is earning a league minimum salary.Pittsburgh has been busy this offseason, acquiring infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13830" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13830">Spencer Horwitz</a> on Tuesday in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians that involved pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15398" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15398">Luis L. Ortiz</a>, while adding minor pieces to its bullpen mix in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13940" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13940">Hunter Stratton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9011" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9011">Tanner Rainey</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14850" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14850">Peter Strzelecki</a>.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 27: Jared Jones #37 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in action against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on September 27, 2024 in New York City. The Pirates defeated the Yankees 4-2.

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Report: Pirates open to trading starters Keller, Jones

The Texas Rangers are bringing back Nathan Eovaldi on a three-year contract, the team announced. ...

The Texas Rangers are bringing back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2345" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2345">Nathan Eovaldi</a> on a three-year contract, the team announced. Eovaldi's pact is reportedly worth $75 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1866648751479382205">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.Eovaldi spent the past two seasons with the Rangers and became a free agent after declining a $20-million player option with Texas for 2025.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old registered a 3.72 ERA and 8.5 K/9 in 314 2/3 innings over the last two seasons and posted a 5-0 record with a 2.95 ERA during the Rangers' 2023 World Series run.Eovaldi was also 87th percentile in chase percentage last season, with opposing teams hitting just .200 off his splitter, and finished seventh among qualified starters with a 48.3% ground-ball rate.Texas was reportedly in on left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a> before he signed an eight-year, $218-million deal with the New York Yankees on Tuesday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rangers also were in on Fried. Team’s RSN outlook growing more encouraging. Would have backloaded deal for Fried, and might be doing same with Eovaldi. Three years, $75M, per <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffPassan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JeffPassan</a>— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1866649590180479469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Rangers were on the hunt for a starter to join a rotation that's expected to include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4311" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4311">Jacob deGrom</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4229" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4229">Jon Gray</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8161" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8161">Tyler Mahle</a> next season.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13850" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13850">Cody Bradford</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15735" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15735">Kumar Rocker</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13876" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13876">Jack Leiter</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8152" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8152">Dane Dunning</a> are also options to start as Texas looks to rebound from a disappointing 78-84 campaign in 2024.The Rangers designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12546" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12546">Roansy Contreras</a> for assignment to make room for Eovaldi on the 40-man roster.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 16: Nathan Eovaldi #17 of the Texas Rangers celebrates an out against the Houston Astros to end the fifth inning in Game Two of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park on October 16, 2023 in Houston, Texas.

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Rangers sign Eovaldi to 3-year deal reportedly worth $75M

The Cleveland Guardians traded second baseman Andrés Giménez and right-hander Nick Sandlin to the...

The Cleveland Guardians traded second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> and right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12325" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12325">Nick Sandlin</a> to the Toronto Blue Jays for infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13830" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13830">Spencer Horwitz</a> and minor-league outfielder Nick Mitchell, the teams announced.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3156453" href="https://thescore.com/news/3156453">Horwitz was then flipped</a> to the Pittsburgh Pirates in a multi-player deal late Tuesday.Giménez is a three-time Gold Glove winner and was the recipient of the 2023 Platinum Glove in the American League as a second baseman. He's also an above-average defender at shortstop. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, the Blue Jays starting shortstop the past five seasons, is a free agent after 2025.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Everything about him was attractive," Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins said of Giménez on Tuesday, according to MLB.com's <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/1866639704805777895">Keegan Matheson</a>. "The work we did on his bat and the offensive impact that can be there, the teammate … we've heard incredible things about the person. That level of speed and athleticism, being here for a long time."The 26-year-old Giménez slashed .252/.298/.340 with 63 RBIs and 30 steals last season, which came two years after he posted an .837 OPS (141 OPS+) and finished sixth in AL MVP voting.Giménez signed a seven-year, $106.5-million contract extension in March 2023. The infielder is set to earn $10 million next season and is owed $94 million through 2029.He's also got a $23-million club option, with a $2.5-million buyout, in 2030.Sandlin, 27, has spent all four of his big-league seasons with the Guardians. He owns a career 3.27 ERA and 10.3 K/9 in 195 1/3 innings. He's under contract until the end of 2027 and is projected to earn $1.6 million through arbitration this season.Meanwhile, Horwitz just completed his first full campaign in the bigs. The 27-year-old slashed .265/.357/.433 with 12 homers, 19 doubles, and 40 RBIs in 97 games while appearing at first and second base. Mitchell was a fourth-round draft choice by the Blue Jays in 2024. The 21-year-old Indiana native hit .289/.350/.467 with four homers and 13 RBIs in 22 games for Single-A Dunedin last season.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 14: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Andres Gimenez #0 of the Cleveland Guardians in action against the New York Yankees during game two of the American League Division Series at Yankee Stadium on October 14, 2022 in New York, New York. The Guardians defeated the Yankees 4-2 in ten innings.

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Blue Jays acquire Giménez in 4-player trade with Guardians

Nolan Arenado's agent, Joel Wolfe, said his client wants to be traded to a contender if he is dea...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a>'s agent, Joel Wolfe, said his client wants to be traded to a contender if he is dealt by the St. Louis Cardinals this winter.Wolfe has spoken directly with the Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Diego Padres, who are showing interest in his client, according to <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2024/12/10/nolan-arenado-trade-rumors-cardinals-contract/76895668007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>.Arenado would have to waive his no-trade clause for such a deal to happen, which Wolfe said his client would consider for "more teams than you would think."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He would strongly consider it if it's the right place to go," Wolfe said, "but he's not going to go just anywhere. We hope something good happens, but he's not going to approve and move his family and go play somewhere that would be (a lateral move).Wolfe added Arenado wants to "win now and consistently for the remainder of his career" and is looking for a team "that has the throttle down."The eight-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove winner is expected to be dealt this offseason, with Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3155439" href="https://thescore.com/news/3155439">saying</a> at the winter meetings his "intention is to try (and trade him)."St. Louis is planning to reduce payroll as it shifts toward a rebuild. Arenado's contract has $74 million remaining over the next three years, with $10 million of it being paid by the Colorado Rockies. Arenado, who is a California native, would prefer to play for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but the reigning World Series champions are sticking with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4250" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4250">Max Muncy</a> at third base, according to Nightengale. He also has the Padres and Los Angeles Angels on his wish list and would be willing to accept a trade to the Phillies, Red Sox, or New York Mets, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/nolan-arenado-has-list-of-trade-candidates?partnerID=mlbapp-iOS_article-share">MLB.com's John Denton</a>.The Cardinals are also talking to the Yankees about Arenado, according to <a href="https://x.com/dgoold/status/1866600242755539322">Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>.

CLEVELAND, OH - JULY 27: Nolan Arenado #28 of the St. Louis Cardinals waits to bat against the Cleveland Indians during the first inning at Progressive Field on July 27, 2021 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: Arenado's agent spoke to BoSox, Padres, Phils, Astros about trade

The Chicago White Sox agreed to a major-league deal with veteran outfielder Mike Tauchman, report...

The Chicago White Sox agreed to a major-league deal with veteran outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4992">Mike Tauchman</a>, reports <a href="https://x.com/CST_soxvan/status/1866334831845466573">Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>. Financials of the pact are not known.Tauchman moves from the North Side of Chicago to the South Side after spending the past two campaigns with the Chicago Cubs.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old Illinois native appeared in 217 games over his two-year stint with the Cubbies, authoring a .250/.360/.372 slash line with 15 home runs, 77 RBIs, and 13 steals.Tauchman has appeared in all three outfield spots during his seven-year career and has typically played well defensively. He's collected 22 defensive runs saved in the bigs.He'll join a White Sox outfield rotation that consists of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5354" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5354">Andrew Benintendi</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12533" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12533">Dominic Fletcher</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a> heading into the 2025 campaign, although Robert is heavily rumored to be traded this offseason.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 04: Mike Tauchman of the Chicago Cubs bats in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field on August 04, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: White Sox, Tauchman agree to major-league deal

It looks like the New York Yankees and New York Mets are going to battle over another player this...

It looks like the New York Yankees and New York Mets are going to battle over another player this winter.The two New York clubs are vying for Chicago White Sox left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> and appear to be the most aggressive suitors as of Monday, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5983024/2024/12/09/garrett-crochet-white-sox-trade-mets-yankees/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon</a>.The Mets appear to have the edge over the Yankees because their farm system features prospects better suited to the White Sox, who need up-the-middle position players, Rosenthal and Sammon add.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12406" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12406">Brett Baty</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15424" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15424">Luisangel Acuña</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16155" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16155">Jett Williams</a> are reportedly players in which Chicago might be interested. Meanwhile, the Yankees and White Sox were reportedly far apart on a deal involving Crochet last summer because New York's farm system didn't have the kind of position players Chicago wanted, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/insider/story/_/id/42873976/mlb-free-agency-2024-2025-new-york-yankees-plan-b-juan-soto">ESPN's Buster Olney</a>.The two clubs were among the finalists for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>, who reportedly chose Queens over the Bronx.Crochet is an intriguing trade option for clubs, as he's under club control until the end of 2027 and projected to make $2.9 million through arbitration this year.The former first-round draft choice authored a 3.58 ERA, 2.69 FIP, and 12.9 K/9 in a career-high 146 innings for the rebuilding White Sox last season.The Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Red Sox are among the other teams interested in Crochet, according to Rosenthal and Sammon.

SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 20: Garrett Crochet #45 of the Chicago White Sox pitches during the second inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres on September 20, 2024 at Petco Park in San Diego, California.

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Report: Yankees, Mets most aggressive suitors for Crochet

The Toronto Blue Jays intend to continue pursuing a contract extension with Vladimir Guerrero Jr....

The Toronto Blue Jays intend to continue pursuing a contract extension with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> after missing out on superstar outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> in free agency. The failed pursuit comes one year after they were unable to sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>."We are committed to always being fair and being consistent. Nothing has changed in terms of our pursuit of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and we are very hopeful to extend him," Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said Monday, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/vladimir-guerrero-jr-could-cash-in-as-2025-free-agent">MLB.com's Keegan Matheson</a>.A Guerrero extension has become a focal point of the Blue Jays' offseason with Soto off the board, as the 25-year-old is destined to become a free agent after the 2025 campaign concludes.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's definitely one of them," manager John Schneider said on MLB Network after being asked if extending Guerrero was priority No. 1."Vladdy's a special guy, special player. ... We want him to be with us as long as possible. He knows that. We've expressed that to him a lot over the years. Hopefully we can get something done. We want what's best for him and best for us. Vladdy's gonna get taken care of and we definitely want that to be in a Jays uniform."Atkins said that while the Blue Jays "had a lot of interest" in signing Soto and would consider making budget exceptions for players like him or Ohtani, the organization has to operate efficiently when considering payroll increases for other players like Guerrero."Every player, every acquisition is unique. I would say that those two are incredibly unique," Atkins said in reference to Soto and Ohtani. "Could there be other avenues where there are opportunities to be a bit more nimble or agile with our payroll? Yes. But we try to operate in the most efficient way possible with a set of parameters to start, then present opportunities as they come."Guerrero <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2940287" href="https://thescore.com/news/2940287">said</a> in July he would like to stay in Toronto after a report claimed his camp and the Blue Jays had discussed a contract extension but were not close to reaching one.In September, Guerrero <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3087347" href="https://thescore.com/news/3087347">added</a> the Blue Jays need to "get better at everything." The club finished last in the AL East despite a tremendous season from the four-time All-Star, which included 30 home runs, 103 RBIs, and a .940 OPS (166 OPS+).The Blue Jays haven't made any significant additions this offseason and non-tendered closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8362">Jordan Romano</a>, who signed with the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - JULY 30: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays reacts during the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on July 30, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Atkins: Blue Jays hope to extend Guerrero after missing out on Soto

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