The Philadelphia Phillies wasted no time reuniting with an old friend after missing out on Bo Bic...

<p>The Philadelphia Phillies wasted no time reuniting with an old friend after missing out on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>. </p><p>Philadelphia agreed to to a three-year, $45-million contract with free-agent catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3087" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/3087">J.T. Realmuto</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2012230898645622985">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>. The contract includes annual award bonuses and performance incentives that could raise the deal's total value to $60 million, per <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2012234972694745401">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>Realmuto, who will turn 35 in March, has spent the last seven seasons as the Phillies' primary catcher. He's won two Gold Gloves and two of his three career Silver Sluggers during his time in Philadelphia.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Oklahoma native is coming off a tough 2025 season, though. His .257/.315/.384 slash line was his worst since his rookie campaign with the Miami Marlins in 2015. He also showed defensive decline; his minus-2 defensive runs saved was the third-lowest total among catchers with at least 900 innings, and he ranked in the seventh percentile of framing.</p><p>Realmuto did continue to excel in some areas, however, leading all catchers in putouts and double plays while catching an NL-high 30 runners stealing. Additionally, his 1.86 pop time ranked in the 99th percentile. Offensively, Realmuto hit 12 homers, marking the 11th straight campaign that he's recorded at least 10 round-trippers, and also stole eight bases.</p><p>The Phillies were thought to be the front-runners for Bichette in recent days. Had they signed the infielder, Realmuto would have wound up elsewhere due to the payroll ramifications. But when Bichette <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3457049" href="https://thescore.com/news/3457049">shocked</a> the baseball world Friday by reportedly agreeing to a three-year, $126-million deal with the rival New York Mets, Philadelphia quickly pivoted back to its longtime catcher.</p><p>His return gives Philadelphia another much-needed right-handed bat in what is projected to be a lefty-heavy lineup. Including top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17816" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17816">Justin Crawford</a>, the Phillies currently have six projected regulars who hit from the left side. The team already tried to correct this imbalance in December by signing outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8821" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8821">Adolis García</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10155" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10155">Rafael Marchán</a> was projected to start behind the plate if Realmuto departed and will now likely serve as his backup. Philadelphia also has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5839" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5839">Garrett Stubbs</a> on its 40-man roster, although both Stubbs and Marchán are out of minor-league options. Minor-league free agents <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12442" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12442">Mark Kolozsvary</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12295" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12295">René Pinto</a> will also be candidates to win the backup job in spring training.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 06: J.T. Realmuto #10 of the Philadelphia Phillies celebrates after hitting a double during the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game two of the National League Division Series at Citizens Bank Park on October 06, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Phillies, Realmuto reunite on 3-year, $45M deal

After months of trying, Steve Cohen finally lured another superstar to Flushing. It just wasn't t...

<p>After months of trying, Steve Cohen finally lured another superstar to Flushing. It just wasn't the guy anybody expected.</p><p>The New York Mets landed infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> on a three-year contract, a source told <a href="https://x.com/WillSammon/status/2012208449103216832">Will Sammon of The Athletic</a>. The deal is worth $126 million and includes full <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2012211828898619612">no-trade</a> protection, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2012209043905925450">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>Bichette receives <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2012209604675977551">opt-outs</a> after the 2026 and '27 seasons and also gets a $5-million opt-out bonus, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2012209787056926748">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>. There's apparently no deferred money in the deal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Completion of the agreement is pending a physical, Sammon adds.</p><p>A natural shortstop, Bichette will shift to third base for the Mets, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2012210900707525109">Heyman</a>. The 27-year-old has never played a professional inning at the hot corner and hadn't played anywhere but shortstop in the majors until shifting to second base during the 2025 World Series. Bichette has consistently ranked as one of the worst defensive shortstops in baseball but expressed an openness to moving off the position throughout the offseason.</p><p>New York already had a star shortstop in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> and acquired veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a> - Bichette's onetime double-play partner in Toronto - to play second base earlier this winter.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12406" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12406">Brett Baty</a> had been projected to man third before Bichette's arrival. Now he's expected to shift into more of a super-utility role, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2012213082940940455">Heyman</a>. Baty has mostly played third and second in the majors but did man left field for one inning in 2023.</p><p>Offensively, Bichette instantly improves the Mets' lineup, giving them more left-right balance plus some additional punch at the top of the order alongside Lindor and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>. The Florida native is a two-time AL hits leader and was on pace to do it for a third time in 2025 before a knee injury halted his regular season in early September.</p><p><strong>Mets' projected 2026 lineup</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Order</th>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Bats</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Francisco Lindor</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>S</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Juan Soto</td>
<td>RF</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Bo Bichette</td>
<td>3B</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Jorge Polanco</td>
<td>1B</td>
<td>S</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Marcus Semien</td>
<td>2B</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Brett Baty</td>
<td>DH</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Francisco Alvarez</td>
<td>C</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Carson Benge</td>
<td>LF</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Tyrone Taylor</td>
<td>CF</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Bichette, a lifetime .294/.337/.469 hitter, has averaged 196 hits, 24 homers, and 41 doubles per 162 games over his seven-year career. His .311 average was tied for second in the majors last year.</p><p>The Mets' deal with Bichette comes barely 12 hours after they were spurned by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker,</a> who <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3454642" href="https://thescore.com/news/3454642">signed</a> his own short-term contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. New York reportedly offered Tucker $220 million over four years but came up $20 million short of the Dodgers' final offer.</p><p>The club beat out NL East rivals the Philadelphia Phillies for Bichette's services. The Phillies had been seen as the favorites to land Bichette following a reportedly positive meeting earlier this week. The Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Blue Jays were also connected to Bichette this winter.</p><p>His signing also comes after the Mets saw franchise pillars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> depart in free agency. The team responded to those losses by signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> to play first base, trading for Semien, and adding relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5394" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5394">Luke Weaver</a>.</p><p>Bichette had spent his entire seven-year career to date with the Blue Jays and had previously expressed a desire to remain in Toronto alongside fellow star and good friend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> However, he became squeezed out of the Blue Jays' crowded infield after their signing of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20140" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20140">Kazuma Okamoto</a>. It was also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3456988" href="https://thescore.com/news/3456988">reported</a> Friday that Bichette had some long-term concerns about Rogers Centre's artificial surface, likely due to his history of leg issues.</p><p>Because he rejected their qualifying offer earlier this winter, the Blue Jays will receive a compensatory draft pick after the fourth round of the 2026 draft. New York, meanwhile, will forfeit its second- and fifth-highest draft picks, along with $1 million from its international bonus pool, as a penalty for the signing, per <a href="https://x.com/MLBDraft/status/2012212783903850601">MLB Pipeline</a>.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - OCTOBER 23: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays works out in the infield during World Series Workout Day ahead of Game 1 of the World Series at Rogers Centre on October 23, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Mets land Bichette on 3-year, $126M deal

After being spurned by Kyle Tucker, the Toronto Blue Jays may return their attention to a reunion...

<p>After being <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3454642" href="https://thescore.com/news/3454642">spurned</a> by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>, the Toronto Blue Jays may return their attention to a reunion with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>. However, their quest to keep the infielder may be facing a new obstacle.</p><p>Bichette - now the best free-agent bat remaining - privately expressed concerns about playing half of his remaining career games on Rogers Centre's artificial turf, sources told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/kyle-tucker-deal-affects-blue-jays-yankees-mets">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>. While not necessarily the deciding factor, it may play a role in his choice, Feinsand reports.</p><p>Rogers Centre's surface didn't prevent Bichette from breaking out as a star and a face of the franchise over the last seven seasons. The 27-year-old has led the AL in hits twice and was on his way to doing it again in 2025 before a sprained knee ended his regular season in early September.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bichette's landed on the injured list with lower-body injuries during each of the last three seasons, including a right calf strain that limited him to 81 games in 2024 (last year's knee injury was unrelated to turf, as it was sustained in a home-plate collision at Yankee Stadium). If Bichette feels that artificial turf is exacerbating his leg issues, he might benefit from shifting to natural grass as he ages.</p><p>The two-time All-Star remains close with fellow star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> after they rose through Toronto's farm system together, and Bichette was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3385082" href="https://thescore.com/news/3385082">open</a> about his desire to stay in Canada earlier this winter. It's unclear if the sides have talked recently.</p><p>Bichette is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3449932" href="https://thescore.com/news/3449932">reportedly</a> seeking a $300-million contract and has apparently told teams that he's open to moving off shortstop. It's unclear if the Blue Jays are open to meeting his price tag. Toronto also faces significant competition for his services, as Bichette <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3454932" href="https://thescore.com/news/3454932">reportedly</a> had a positive meeting with the Philadelphia Phillies this week. The Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Boston Red Sox are among the other teams who've been connected to him this winter.</p><p>If he returned to Toronto, Bichette would likely slide over to second base full time, as he did during the World Series. That would move <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> to shortstop and likely push <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10877">Ernie Clement</a> into a super-utility role. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14202">Addison Barger</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14134" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14134">Davis Schneider</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5788" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5788">Nathan Lukes</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a> would then be left to battle for at-bats in the corner outfield spots.</p><p>Clement would presumably become Toronto's everyday second baseman if Bichette signs elsewhere.</p><p>Even after missing out on Tucker and potentially losing Bichette, Toronto's enjoyed a productive offseason. The reigning AL champions inked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a>, arguably the top free-agent starting pitcher of this class, to a seven-year deal in December and signed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5041" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5041">Tyler Rogers</a>, corner infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20140" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20140">Kazuma Okamoto</a>, and starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> to multi-year contracts.</p>

TORONTO, ON - AUGUST 16: Toronto Blue Jays infielder Bo Bichette (11) is seen after an MLB game between the Texas Rangers and the Toronto Blue Jays on August 16, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON.

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Report: Bichette concerned about Rogers Centre's artificial turf

The Boston Red Sox have responded to losing Alex Bregman by beefing up their starting rotation.  ...

<p>The Boston Red Sox have responded to losing Alex Bregman by beefing up their starting rotation.</p><p>Boston agreed to a five-year, $130-million contract with free-agent left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/9813" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/9813">Ranger Suárez</a>, <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2011517886314267121">Bob Nightengale of USA Today</a> reports.</p><p>The contract - Boston's first big-league free-agent deal handed out this offseason - doesn't contain any deferrals and or opt-outs, Nightengale <a href="http://x.com/BNightengale/status/2011521128175714698">adds</a>. He didn't receive a no-trade clause either, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/2011523181346243008">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Suárez heads to the AL East after spending his first eight major-league seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies. He also reportedly drew interest from the Baltimore Orioles before ultimately landing in Beantown.</p><p>The 30-year-old is coming off an excellent 2025 campaign. He posted a 3.20 ERA, 3.21 FIP, and 1.22 WHIP along with a career-high 151 strikeouts while issuing just 38 walks and allowing only 14 homers in 157 1/3 innings. However, he was limited to just 26 regular-season starts because of a back issue.</p><p>Suárez has never lit up the radar gun, possessing a fastball that averaged 91.3 mph last year, and he hasn't ranked above the 44th percentile in velocity overall. He's risen to stardom as a master of control, utilizing a six-pitch arsenal headlined by a devastating sinker that ties hitters in knots and effectively limits the long ball.</p><p>He has also excelled when the lights are brightest. Suárez, who became a postseason star in Philadelphia, sports a lifetime 1.48 ERA with 44 strikeouts over 11 playoff appearances since 2022.</p><p>Still, a few concerning signs emerged during his 2025 campaign. Suárez's average fastball velocity has dropped nearly two full miles per hour since 2023, while his opponents' average exit velocity and hard-hit percentage ranked in the 95th percentile or higher last season. Additionally, since becoming a full-time starter, he hasn't made more than 29 starts in a year because of recurring back and hamstring issues.</p><p>Suárez deepens the Red Sox rotation overall behind ace Garrett Crochet, adding another proven arm alongside offseason trade additions Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo, plus right-hander Brayan Bello. Patrick Sandoval and Kutter Crawford are also expected to return from injuries at some point in 2026.</p><p>With Suárez solidifying the rotation, Boston can now give its full attention to replacing Bregman's bat in the lineup. The Red Sox had been pushing hard to retain Bregman before he opted to join the Chicago Cubs on a five-year deal reportedly worth more than what Boston had offered.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Adding Suarez's $26M AAV to the payroll, Boston's CBT number moved up to a projected ~$268.9M. <br><br>That's $24.90M over the 1st CBA threshold and $4.90M over the 2nd.<br><br>That hops them up to 6th in MLB and would be their highest CBT payroll of all time.<br><br>Roster is still incomplete.</p>— Red Sox Payroll (@redsoxpayroll) <a href="https://twitter.com/redsoxpayroll/status/2011533502156849592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Red Sox have been connected to Bo Bichette, although he appears to be seeking a longer-term deal. They've reportedly shown interest in Eugenio Suárez as a potential short-term solution at the hot corner as well. Slugger Willson Contreras, one of the Red Sox significant trade additions this winter, said Wednesday that he's hoping to recruit the power-hitting third baseman, who he called a "really close" friend, according <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2026/01/will-red-sox-trade-addition-recruit-really-close-friend-eugenio-suarez-49-hr-in-2025-to-boston.html">MassLive's Christopher Smith</a>.</p><p>Philadelphia, meanwhile, will receive a draft pick after the fourth round of the 2026 draft as compensation for the southpaw's signing in Boston, according to <a href="https://x.com/MLBPipeline/status/1990916923480240347">MLB Pipeline</a>. Suárez became tied to draft-pick compensation after rejecting the Phillies' qualifying offer in November.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - AUGUST 24: Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ranger Suárez (55) pitches the ball during the game between the Washington Nationals and the Philadelphia Phillies on August 24th, 2025 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA.

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Report: Red Sox agree to 5-year, $130M deal with Ranger Suárez

Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow acknowledged it won't be easy to fill the voi...

<p>Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow acknowledged it won't be easy to fill the void left by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> after he signed with the Chicago Cubs in free agency.</p><p>"Any time you are active in trying to bring a player in, it's disappointing to lose out," Breslow told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2026/01/as-alex-bregman-leaves-red-sox-craig-breslow-says-its-disappointing-to-lose-out-qa.html">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a> via email Sunday. "We do this job because we are competitive and we want to deliver a championship to our fans, and falling short in a pursuit is an obstacle to that."</p><p>Bregman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3452551" href="https://thescore.com/news/3452551">reportedly agreed</a> to a five-year, $175-million contract with the Cubs over the weekend. The contract is said to include $70 million worth of deferrals, as well as a full no-trade clause.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 31-year-old came to Boston last winter on a three-year, $120-million deal that included two opt-outs. He enjoyed a solid 2025 season, hitting .273/.360/.462 with 18 homers despite a quad strain limiting him to 114 games. The third baseman then opted out to seek a long-term contract.</p><p>Bregman also made an impact off the field during his one year in Beantown. The two-time World Series champion emerged as an important veteran leader in a clubhouse that dealt with some turmoil during the season, and he also served as a mentor to many of the team's young stars.</p><p>Boston apparently pushed hard to keep Bregman at Fenway Park, tabling a five-year, $165-million offer with deferrals, a source told <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2026/01/alex-bregman-leaves-red-sox-for-cubs-five-thoughts-on-bostons-offer-whats-next-more-sean-mcadam.html">MassLive's Sean McAdam</a>. However, the Red Sox apparently didn't include a no-trade clause in their offer, and Bregman also took issue with how Boston spread out the deferred payments in its offer, reports McAdam.</p><p>Breslow wouldn't go into specifics about the negotiations, only saying that he "respect(s) the right" to free agency that Bregman "earned." The Red Sox are the only team that's yet to sign a big-league free agent this winter.</p><p>The executive said he remained optimistic about his team's chances in the hyper-competitive AL East.</p><p>"I am not going to gloss over the impact that Alex had on our season. He is a great player with a strong leadership presence in our clubhouse," Breslow said. "But this job requires balancing long- and short-term interests and making the best decisions for the organization, difficult as they be. It means losing out on good players sometimes.</p><p>"However, while we will enter the '26 season with different personnel, there will be no less resolve to compete for the division and make a deep postseason run. I believe in the group we have while we keep working to find ways to add to it."</p><p>The Red Sox have been linked to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> throughout the offseason and now could be in a position to push hard for the two-time All-Star infielder. Some people inside the organization have apparently preferred Bichette to Bregman all along, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6961817/2026/01/12/red-sox-options-alex-bregman-gone-free-agency/">Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>The Red Sox are also showing interest in veteran third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/3362" href="/wbc/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a>, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6912366/2026/01/11/boston-red-sox-alex-bregman-walks/">McCaffrey</a> reports. Suárez is a weak defender but has the type of right-handed power swing that would play well at Fenway Park. It's unclear if the Red Sox and Suárez have had any contract talks.</p>

BOSTON, MA - MAY 19: Craig Breslow chief baseball officer of the Boston Red Sox before the game against the New York Mets at Fenway Park on May 19, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Breslow: 'Disappointing' to see Bregman leave Red Sox

The St. Louis Cardinals and reliever Ryne Stanek agreed to a 1-year, $3.5-million contract with a...

<p>The St. Louis Cardinals and reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5911" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5911">Ryne Stanek</a> agreed to a 1-year, $3.5-million contract with a $6-million club option for 2027, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2010095788110848442?s=20">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Stanek, who was born in St. Louis, is coming off a down 2025 campaign with the New York Mets. In 65 appearances, he posted a 5.30 ERA and 1.57 WHIP - both career-worst marks in a full season - along with a 4.40 FIP, 58 strikeouts, and 32 walks. His 5.1 BB/9 rate was his highest since 2022.</p><p>However, there were a few positives to be found in his 2025 season. Stanek's fastball, his main weapon, averaged 98.5 mph and sat in the 96th percentile, while he placed above the 70th percentile in chase and whiff percentage. He also found success with his slider, holding opponents to a .184 average and .286 SLG against the breaking pitch. Stanek was effective in limiting the long ball as well, allowing just seven homers in 56 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The rebuilding Cardinals are likely hoping they can help Stanek rediscover the form that made him a dominant reliever earlier this decade, with eyes towards flipping him at the trade deadline. He'll likely have plenty of chances to establish himself as a late-inning weapon in a bullpen that features <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12559" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12559">Riley O'Brien</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9590" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9590">JoJo Romero</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17421" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17421">Matt Svanson</a>, among others.</p><p>Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom is familiar with Stanek, having been a member of the Tampa Bay Rays' front office when they drafted him in 2012.</p><p>Stanek owns a lifetime 3.85 ERA, 4.17 FIP, and 1.32 WHIP with 532 strikeouts and 14 saves across parts of nine big-league seasons with five teams. Excluding the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign, he's made at least 59 appearances in every season since 2018.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 28: Ryne Stanek #55 of the New York Mets pitches against the Miami Marlins during the fourth inning at loanDepot park on September 28, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Cardinals, Stanek agree to 1-year, $3.5M deal

The Washington Commanders are promoting assistant quarterbacks coach David Blough to offensive co...

<p>The Washington Commanders are promoting assistant quarterbacks coach David Blough to offensive coordinator, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Blough had been drawing interest from the Detroit Lions for their vacant OC position, sources told <a href="https://x.com/RapSheet/status/2009773290156343619">Ian Rapoport of NFL Network</a>. Instead, he'll remain in the nation's capital and take over play-calling duties following the departure of Kliff Kingsbury.</p><p>Blough first joined the Commanders' staff as an assistant QB coach in 2024. He entered the coaching ranks after spending five years as a backup QB in the NFL. The 30-year-old took his last snaps in 2023, when he was a member of Detroit's practice squad.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Commanders slumped to 5-12 this season as star signal-caller Jayden Daniels struggled to stay healthy. Washington scored 356 points in 2025, ranking 22nd in the league.</p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - DECEMBER 24: A Washington Commanders helmet on the field before a game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Commanders promote assistant coach Blough to OC

Kyle Tucker is the best position player available in free agency this winter. While he'd instantl...

<p>Kyle Tucker is the best position player available in free agency this winter. While he'd instantly improve any team, his high price tag has helped drag his availability into the new year. Still, the longer he lingers on the market, the more likely it is that a surprise team enters the mix - perhaps offering a short-term, big-money deal. Here, we take a look at some of the best fits for Tucker, from the most talked-about clubs to some potential wild cards.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-y5cp9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/y5cp9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>The Blue Jays have been connected to Tucker all winter, and with good reason. Ownership has spared no expense in trying to improve the team after coming inches from a World Series title. The Blue Jays need a big bopper - ideally from the left side - to complement Vladimir Guerrero Jr. for both the short and long term. Tucker fits the Jays' offensive profile to a tee: He's a patient, high-contact, low-strikeout hitter with power who's fast on the bases.<strong> </strong>A Tucker megadeal would take the Blue Jays' payroll and luxury-tax bill into a whole other stratosphere, but that's a small price to pay - and one that Rogers Communications is obviously able to afford. The Jays also have long-term wiggle room for another contract with George Springer, Kevin Gausman, and Shane Bieber, among others, set to come off the books next winter.</p><p>If Tucker does take a long-term deal from Toronto, it would almost certainly end Bo Bichette's tenure north of the border. Tucker would also create a logjam of corner types; Kazuma Okamoto, Anthony Santander, Addison Barger, Davis Schneider, and Nathan Lukes all still need at-bats, meaning one of the four incumbents might find themselves on the move if Tucker arrives. Still, this would be a great problem for the Blue Jays to have. He'd make the reigning AL champions that much better, and if you're another AL East team, the thought of Guerrero and Tucker mashing together for the next decade should give you nightmares.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VxCiB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VxCiB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>Tucker led the Cubs back to the playoffs in his first (and perhaps only) season on the North Side of Chicago while winning a Silver Slugger and flirting with a 30-30 season. Whether that was enough to convince the Cubs to re-sign the four-time All-Star remains to be seen, although the fit - at least on paper - remains apparent. Even a struggling Tucker dramatically improves the Cubs' lineup, and he's a far better defender than Seiya Suzuki in right field. A reunion seems to make a lot of sense.</p><p>The questions here have more to do with whether the Cubs want to meet Tucker's price tag, be it on a short- or long-term deal. Of course, the Cubs should be spending: They're a big-market team with rich owners and a history of running high payrolls. But in this specific case, it's also fair to wonder about Tucker's overall fit with the franchise. His home-road splits in 2025 were skewed heavily in favor of the road, and his second-half downturn, while injury related, raised more than a few eyebrows. Maybe the two sides really didn't click last year - but we don't know this for a fact. Unless Tucker already told them he's leaving, there's no reason the Cubs shouldn't move heaven and earth to keep him at Wrigley Field.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-J15aO" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/J15aO/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>Steve Cohen loves to make a splash, and surely he's itching to shake things up after last September's collapse and the departures of Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz. In this regard, Tucker would represent a perfect fit for the Mets. The trio of Tucker, Juan Soto, and Francisco Lindor would be downright scary. Brandon Nimmo's trade opened up a corner outfield spot, and Tucker's an obvious upgrade over Soto in right field; Soto has experience in left, and is probably better suited for that corner anyway.</p><p>The actual contract should be of no concern to Cohen, who's shown little restraint when it comes to spending. If Cohen wants something, he'll clearly <a href="https://www.artnews.com/art-news/market/steven-a-cohen-revealed-as-buyer-of-141-3-m-giacometti-sculpture-4290/">stop at nothing</a> to acquire it. A short-term deal could work for both sides, and indeed, the Mets would <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3449150" href="https://thescore.com/news/3449150">reportedly</a> prefer to bring him in on a short-term agreement. If that interest is mutual, this feels like a very good match.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5OQCg" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5OQCg/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>Yeah, this one is wishful thinking. But the Pirates have shown an inclination to spend this offseason, and if they want to meet Tucker's price - which they should - it would be a perfect pairing. He'd obviously lengthen the Pirates' lineup and would be a great fit at PNC Park. He'd give the club a legitimate offensive anchor to build around for the next decade and could help transform Pittsburgh into a destination while dramatically increasing the odds that Paul Skenes sticks around. Yes, the Pirates would have to overpay to lure Tucker given their history - the franchise has never even come close to making this kind of signing - but it would instantly pay off.</p><p>Adding Tucker is the kind of move a rebuilding franchise makes when it wants to send a message that it's ready to start contending. The Bucs had a good start to the winter by trading for Brandon Lowe and signing Ryan O'Hearn. If they were to shock the world and open the wallet for Tucker, they might just win the offseason.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-jc56P" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/jc56P/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>Buster Posey's swung for the fences multiple times in his first year-plus running the Giants, so why wouldn't he do it again? Tucker would enjoy taking aim at McCovey Cove for the next decade, and he has the defensive capabilities required to patrol Oracle Park's quirky right field. Now imagine having to navigate a lineup of Jung Hoo Lee, Willy Adames, Tucker, Matt Chapman, and Rafael Devers - not to mention top prospect Bryce Eldridge. Tucker would push the Giants right back into contention in the rough-and-tumble NL West. They could also likely afford it over the long haul, even after accounting for their other long-term deals on the books. With Tucker in tow, the future would be very bright in San Francisco.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-CGfz4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/CGfz4/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>There's no indication that the Tigers are ready to hand out a long-term contract here, but if Tucker's willing to take (or ends up having to take) a shorter agreement with opt-outs, they'd be in a good position to land him. Tucker fits the Tigers offensively, even if he'd add yet another left-handed bat to their lineup. But his impact would be immediate on the field. Signing Tucker even for the short term would also signal a willingness to make the most of Tarik Skubal's last year under team control. If the Tigers aren't going to trade Skubal - and they shouldn't - they should make every effort to improve the club now and convince him to stick around. Signing Tucker would represent a significant contribution toward that mission.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-2PSXj" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/2PSXj/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>Hey, this sounds familiar. The Astros traded Tucker last winter because they had no intention of signing him to the long-term contract he wants. But if he was open to, let's say, a three-year, $140-million deal with opt-outs? That might change some things. Both sides know each other very well, so not much background work would be needed beyond the negotiations. The fit is very clear after the Astros weren't able to replace Tucker's production in right field. Owner Jim Crane has been loath to hand out long-term deals, so the only way this would work is if Tucker's market collapses to the point that he has to take a shorter agreement. Should that happen, a brief reunion could benefit both parties.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-IaiDw" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/IaiDw/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="81" 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><p>As always, the two-time defending champions are lurking, waiting to pounce if the price is right. Tucker's fit with the Dodgers on both sides of the ball is obvious. By adding Tucker, Teoscar Hernández could move to left field, where his poor defense plays a bit better. Landing Tucker might also open up avenues for a need-for-need trade involving other outfielders on the roster. Like with the Astros, a Tucker-Dodgers union probably only happens if he's ready to accept a short-term contract. The Dodgers generally prefer to make these deals happen on their terms - which is possible when you've just won two straight titles featuring a roster that's loaded with future Hall of Famers. Is L.A. Tucker's likeliest destination? Probably not. But count the Dodgers out of these sweepstakes at your peril.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34033563/related

8 potential landing spots for Kyle Tucker

There's a new entrant in the Kyle Tucker sweepstakes - for the right price.  The New York Mets ar...

<p>There's a new entrant in the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> sweepstakes - for the right price.</p><p>The New York Mets are among the teams showing the most interest in the four-time All-Star outfielder, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6951582/2026/01/07/mets-kyle-tucker-mlb-free-agency/?source=emp_shared_article">Will Sammon of The Athletic</a>. However, New York's preference would be to land Tucker on a shorter-term deal with a higher average annual value instead of a long-term agreement, Sammon adds.</p><p>On paper, Tucker would be a great fit at Citi Field. The Mets have an opening in the corner outfield after trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a> to Texas in November. Tucker's primarily played right field in the majors but does have 72 games of experience in left and could easily switch corners with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> entrenched in right.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He'd also help fill the lineup void left by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>'s departure to Baltimore. Tucker, Soto, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> would rank among the best top-order trios in baseball.</p><p>The Mets haven't been quiet this winter despite losing Alonso and star closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> in free agency. New York replaced Díaz by luring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5394" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5394">Luke Weaver</a> away from the crosstown rival Yankees, inked slugging infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> to a two-year deal, and acquired veteran second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a> in the Nimmo trade.</p><p>New York's main competition for Tucker appears to be the Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers, according to Sammon. Toronto is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3447450" href="https://thescore.com/news/3447450">reportedly</a> ramping up its pursuit of the 28-year-old after signing Japanese star<a data-in-app-uri="" href=""> Kazuma Okamoto</a> on Sunday. The Orioles and Yankees have also been linked to Tucker this winter.</p><p>Tucker's been among the most consistent hitters in baseball since reaching the majors in 2018, owning a career .273/.358/.507 slash line with 147 homers, 490 RBIs, and 119 steals across 769 big-league games. As a member of the Chicago Cubs in 2025, he won his second career Silver Slugger despite being limited to 136 games because of injuries.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 11: Kyle Tucker #30 of the Chicago Cubs in action against the New York Mets at Citi Field on May 11, 2025 in New York City. The Mets defeated the Cubs 6-2.

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Report: Mets eyeing Tucker, would prefer short-term deal

Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark is taking a leave of absence for personal reasons, the t...

<p>Ottawa Senators goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> is taking a leave of absence for personal reasons, the team announced Sunday.</p><p>The Senators didn't provide a timetable for his return.</p><p>"Linus has the full support of our organization during this time," Senators president of hockey operations Steve Staios said in a statement. "Out of respect to Linus, we will not be making any further comments."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ullmark has struggled this season, posting a 2.95 goals against average and a career-worst .881 save percentage while allowing a league-high 82 goals in 28 games. Ottawa pulled the 2023 Vezina Trophy winner from Saturday's loss against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period after allowing four goals on 14 shots in just over 27 minutes of action.</p><p>The 32-year-old is in the second season of a four-year, $33-million contract.</p><p>Rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9225" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9225">Leevi Merilainen</a>, who's been Ullmark's backup this campaign, will presumably take over as Ottawa's No. 1 goalie going forward. The 23-year-old Finn is 4-6-0 with a .874 save percentage and 3.43 GAA in 10 games this season. The Sens also have netminders Hunter Shepard, Jackson Parsons, and Mats Sogaard in their AHL organization with the Belleville Senators.</p><p>Ottawa sits 12th in the Eastern Conference with an 18-14-5 record.</p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - DECEMBER 23: Linus Ullmark #35 of the Ottawa Senators tends net during the second period against the Buffalo Sabres at Canadian Tire Centre on December 23, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The Buffalo Sabres defeated the Ottawa Senators 3-2 in overtime.

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Sens' Ullmark takes leave of absence for personal reasons

Nearly a decade after retiring, Alex Rodriguez remains one of baseball's most polarizing figures,...

<p>Nearly a decade after retiring, Alex Rodriguez remains one of baseball's most polarizing figures, particularly regarding his Hall of Fame candidacy.</p><p>Yet the former superstar shortstop now says he's made peace with the prospect of never having a plaque in Cooperstown.</p><p>"I have a life today that I didn't have for the first 40 years," Rodriguez recently told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6870472/2025/12/28/alex-rodriguez-mlb-hall-of-fame-therapy/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=twhq&amp;source=twitterhq">Jason Jones of The Athletic</a>. "If I went to the Hall of Fame, in a weird way, I would be hollow inside. I would still be in a lot of pain.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I would rather have what I have today, because it really helped me unlock a lot of the work that I needed to do."</p><p>Drafted first overall by the Seattle Mariners in 1993, Rodriguez helped redefine the shortstop position during the first half of his career with Seattle and the Texas Rangers before moving to third base after a trade to the New York Yankees.</p><p>The three-time AL MVP ranks fifth all time in home runs (696), fourth in RBIs (2,086), and eighth in runs scored (2,021). One of just four players in both the 3,000-hit and 600-homer clubs, Rodriguez led his league in home runs five times, had three 50-homer campaigns, and authored a rare 40-40 season in 1998.</p><p>However, Rodriguez's prickly off-field persona and use of performance-enhancing drugs have stalled his Hall of Fame candidacy. He first admitted to using PEDs in 2009, claiming he took steroids during his time with the Rangers from 2001-03. Rodriguez's subsequent involvement in the BioGenesis scandal led MLB to suspend him for the entire 2014 season.</p><p>Rodriguez has received limited support since debuting on the Hall of Fame ballot in 2022, topping out at 37.1% in 2024. As of Sunday, he's garnered 49.3% of the vote from 67 publicly revealed ballots in this year's cycle, per <a href="https://onedrive.live.com/personal/f2e5d8fc5199dfaf/_layouts/15/Doc.aspx?sourcedoc=%7B4902e0d6-166c-4d3f-a1f1-8d418ab21879%7D&amp;action=default&amp;redeem=aHR0cHM6Ly8xZHJ2Lm1zL3gvYy9mMmU1ZDhmYzUxOTlkZmFmL0VkYmdBa2xzRmo5Tm9mR05RWXF5R0hrQndRUmxiSV8tNmtCZkREZm1HalIwZVE_ZT1ianJ5TEw&amp;slrid=a086e7a1-e078-0000-2c8d-4a3a3bbdf475&amp;originalPath=aHR0cHM6Ly8xZHJ2Lm1zL3gvYy9mMmU1ZDhmYzUxOTlkZmFmL0lRRFc0QUpKYkJZX1RhSHhqVUdLc2hoNUFjRUVaV3lQX3VwQVh3dzM1aG8wZEhrP3J0aW1lPXFuMzZyVDlHM2tn&amp;CID=6f51bcd5-5e86-4deb-9285-c4031d46c6c7&amp;_SRM=0:G:37">Ryan Thibodaux's Hall of Fame Tracker</a>. Rodriguez's eligibility on the BBWAA ballot expires in 2030.</p><p>But even before the BioGenesis scandal, "A-Rod" was a controversial figure among his own team's fans primarily due to previous PED allegations and his outspoken personality. Describing himself as a "recovering narcissist," Rodriguez told The Athletic that he views his season-long suspension as a pivotal point in his life, one that pushed him to embrace therapy and accept accountability for his past behavior.</p><p>"The year (of) suspension gave me this time and the space and the privacy to really dig in and turn that lens inward," Rodriguez said. "Where I am today, I think, is 100% connected to the work that I did. So, if the Hall of Fame was a price, then, you know, that's on me."</p><p>Since retiring in 2016 after being released by the Yankees, Rodriguez has entered the business world and is now a part-owner of the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves and the WNBA's Minnesota Lynx. The 50-year-old also remains involved in baseball, serving as a broadcaster with Fox.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - APRIL 09: Alex Rodriguez #13 of the New York Yankees looks on after striking out during the game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on April 9, 2016 in Detroit, Michigan. The Yankees defeated the Tigers 8-4.

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A-Rod: I don't care about getting into HOF anymore

Toronto Raptors wing RJ Barrett was in the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Golden S...

<p>Toronto Raptors wing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/69533" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/69533">RJ Barrett</a> was in the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Golden State Warriors after missing the last 15 contests due to a right knee sprain.</p><p>The Raptors will have Barrett on a minutes restriction during the game, according to <a href="https://x.com/michaelgrange/status/2005350714747621680">Sportsnet's Michael Grange</a>.</p><p>Barrett hasn't played since suffering the injury during Toronto's win over the Brooklyn Nets on Nov. 23. He received a platelet-rich plasma injection in his knee earlier in December to help his recovery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 25-year-old was off to a hot start before the issue, averaging 19.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists while shooting a career-best 50.6% from the field in 17 games this season.</p><p>The Raptors have sorely missed Barrett, going 6-9 in his absence after a 12-5 start to the campaign. Darko Rajakovic's club enters Sunday's tilt having dropped three of its last five matchups, including a 21-point loss to the league-worst Washington Wizards on Friday.</p>

TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 21: RJ Barrett #9 of the Toronto Raptors looks on against the Washington Wizards during the second half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on November 21, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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Raptors' Barrett returns vs. Warriors after 5-week absence

The Chicago Cubs have brought some more power into their bullpen, as they've agreed to a one-year...

<p>The Chicago Cubs have brought some more power into their bullpen, as they've agreed to a one-year contract with veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4217" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4217">Hunter Harvey</a>, <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2005007420494676427">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>Harvey will earn $6 million next season, a source told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/47428030/sources-cubs-reliever-hunter-harvey-agree-1-year-deal">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>Harvey, who spent 2025 with the Kansas City Royals, only made 12 big-league appearances last year while battling shoulder and adductor injuries. He's only pitched in 18 total games since July 14, 2024, when Kansas City acquired him from the Washington Nationals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>When healthy, though, the 31-year-old has shown flashes of dominance in the bullpen. Harvey didn't allow a run and had 11 strikeouts with just one walk during his abbreviated 2025 campaign. In 2023, his most recent full season, the right-hander recorded 10 saves with a 2.82 ERA and 0.94 WHIP over 60 2/3 innings for Washington, while his 98.3 mph fastball velocity ranked in the 96th percentile that season.</p><p>Health permitting, Harvey should get plenty of opportunities to establish himself as a high-leverage weapon for the Cubs ahead of closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13748" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13748">Daniel Palencia</a>. He's the latest new face in a bullpen that's already added veteran right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10583" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10583">Jacob Webb</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8432" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8432">Phil Maton</a>, as well as southpaw <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8389" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8389">Hoby Milner</a>, in free agency this winter.</p><p>A onetime top prospect after being drafted 22nd overall by Baltimore in 2013, Harvey owns a lifetime 3.11 ERA, 3.16 FIP, and 1.10 WHIP with 201 strikeouts and 11 saves across 182 big-league appearances for the Orioles, Nats, and Royals.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - JULY 30: Kansas City Royals Hunter Harvey (56) follows through on a pitch in the sixth inning of an MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Royals on July 30, 2025 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

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Report: Cubs agree to 1-year, $6M deal with Hunter Harvey

The Cincinnati Reds added some depth to their outfield by signing JJ Bleday to a one-year contrac...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds added some depth to their outfield by signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12422" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12422">JJ Bleday</a> to a one-year contract, the team announced Saturday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to Reds Country, JJ‼️ <a href="https://t.co/9JQT19XO0b">pic.twitter.com/9JQT19XO0b</a></p>— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reds/status/2004980001444430126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bleday's deal will pay him a base salary of $1.4 million and includes incentives, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2004952947780972852">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>To make room for Bleday on the 40-man roster, Cincinnati designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12441" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12441">Keegan Thompson</a> for assignment.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bleday was designated for assignment and then non-tendered by the Athletics in November following a difficult 2025 season. The 28-year-old took a big step back offensively, hitting .212/.294/.404 with 14 homers and 39 RBIs over 98 games with the A's and was twice optioned to Triple-A.</p><p>However, he's also just one year removed from a breakout 2024 campaign in which he slashed .243/.324/.437 with 20 homers and 60 RBIs. Bleday's bat also improved during the second half of 2025, as his .801 OPS after the All-Star break was over 100 points higher than his first-half total. Cincinnati's undoubtedly hoping that a move to cozy Great American Ball Park can help him rediscover that form.</p><p>Bleday joins <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8747" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8747">TJ Friedl</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12369" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12369">Noelvi Marte</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12613" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12613">Will Benson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11787" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11787">Tyler Callihan</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8195">Gavin Lux</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12789" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12789">Spencer Steer</a> as potential outfield options for manager Terry Francona. He also offers some versatility, having experience manning all three outfield spots in the majors. Bleday's arm is his biggest defensive asset, as he ranked in the 81st percentile of arm strength last season.</p><p>Originally drafted fourth overall by Miami out of Vanderbilt in 2019, Bleday is a lifetime .215/.307/.394 hitter with 49 homers, 142 RBIs, and 12 steals across 404 big-league games with the A's and Marlins.</p><p>The Reds added another outfielder via trade Saturday, acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14554" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14554">Dane Myers</a> from the Miami Marlins in exchange for outfield prospect Ethan O'Donnell. Myers, 29, hit .235/.291/.326 with six homers, 31 RBIs, and 18 steals across 106 games for the Marlins in 2025 while playing all three outfield spots. He's under team control through 2029.</p><p>Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10764" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10764">Lyon Richardson</a> was DFA'd to open Myers' 40-man roster spot.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 28: JJ Bleday #33 of the Athletics bats in the bottom of the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Sutter Health Park on September 28, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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Reds sign Bleday to 1-year deal reportedly worth $1.4M

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love won't play in Saturday night's game against the Baltimo...

<p>Green Bay Packers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a> won't play in Saturday night's game against the Baltimore Ravens because of a concussion, the team announced Friday. </p><p>Backup <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174046" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174046">Malik Willis</a> is expected to start for Green Bay, sources told <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/2004655272309215721?s=20">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>. </p><p>Love was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3433222" href="https://thescore.com/news/3433222">concussed</a> during the Packers' Week 16 loss to the Chicago Bears after taking a helmet-to-helmet hit while being sacked in the second quarter. Willis finished that game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Saturday's Packers-Ravens showdown at Lambeau Field has become a battle of the backups. Baltimore, which is fighting for its playoff life, is expected to start <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/105226" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/105226">Tyler Huntley</a> with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/97162" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/97162">Lamar Jackson</a> doubtful because of a back injury.</p><p>The Packers clinched a playoff spot Thursday thanks to the Detroit Lions' loss to the Minnesota Vikings.</p>

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 16: Jordan Love #10 of the Green Bay Packers stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on November 16, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Packers' Love out vs. Ravens with concussion

Dallas Mavericks superstar Anthony Davis is expected to miss a few games after sustaining a minor...

<p>Dallas Mavericks superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> is expected to miss a few games after sustaining a minor groin strain during his team's Christmas Day loss to the Golden State Warriors, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2004615905922400621">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>The Mavericks will evaluate Davis daily and take a cautious approach in determining his return, Charania reports. He's listed as questionable for Saturday's game in Sacramento, according to <a href="https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/2004695039533002816">NBA insider Marc Stein</a>.</p><p>Davis suffered the strain early in the second quarter when he pulled up lame while running down the court. He quickly went to the bench for an examination before heading to the locker room for the remainder of the evening. Davis scored three points with three rebounds and three blocks in 11 minutes of action Thursday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/63vjq1kk0O">pic.twitter.com/63vjq1kk0O</a></p>— No Context NBA (@NoContext_NBA_) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoContext_NBA_/status/2004355617197380041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The oft-injured center has been limited to 16 games this season because of a recurring left calf issue.</p><p>Davis continues to make an impact when available. The former first overall pick is averaging 20.5 points, 10.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.6 blocks while shooting 52.1% from the field for the Mavericks this season.</p><p>That production has made Davis the subject of trade rumors in spite of his trouble staying on the court. Multiple contenders have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3423068" href="https://thescore.com/news/3423068">reportedly</a> been linked to Davis should Dallas make him available at this year's trade deadline.</p><p>Thursday's loss dropped the Mavericks to 12-20, leaving them one game out of the final Western Conference play-in spot.</p>

DALLAS, TEXAS - OCTOBER 26: Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks walks backcourt during a game against the Toronto Raptors at American Airlines Center on October 26, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Report: AD expected to miss time with minor groin strain

The Athletics have locked up another piece of their young core, agreeing to a seven-year extensio...

<p>The Athletics have locked up another piece of their young core, agreeing to a seven-year extension with outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12358" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12358">Tyler Soderstrom</a>, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Soderstrom's deal is worth $86 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2004278207701492168">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>The contract also includes a club option for 2033, and could max out at $131 million through various escalator clauses, Passan reports. It also delays Soderstrom's eventual free agency by at least three years.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Soderstrom's contract represents the largest guaranteed deal in A's history. The previous record was pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4775" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4775">Luis Severino</a>'s three-year, $67-million deal signed last winter.</p><p>The 24-year-old is coming off a breakout 2025 season that saw him hit .276/.346/.474 with 25 homers, 93 RBIs, and eight steals over 158 games. Defensively, Soderstrom recorded 11 outfield assists and had 10 defensive runs saved in left field - a remarkable feat given 2025 was his first season playing the outfield as a professional.</p><p>Soderstrom, who originally came up as a catcher, also displayed his versatility by making 49 appearances at first base in 2025.</p><p>Soderstrom is now slated to be a central piece of the first Las Vegas Athletics teams once the historic franchise officially moves to Nevada in 2028. The A's are entering the second season of a temporary three-year stint in West Sacramento, California, while their new Las Vegas ballpark is constructed. Before that, the franchise, which originated in Philadelphia, spent 56 seasons in Oakland.</p><p>The A's now have two-thirds of their outfield in Soderstrom and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14243" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14243">Lawrence Butler</a> - who inked a seven-year, $65.5-million extension last March - locked up through 2031. First baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18799">Nick Kurtz</a>, the 2025 AL Rookie of the Year, and All-Star shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17378">Jacob Wilson</a> also remain under team control via arbitration through at least 2030, while DH <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9582" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9582">Brent Rooker</a> is signed until 2029.</p><p>Other homegrown A's players under club control include starting catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12388">Shea Langeliers</a> (arbitration-eligible through 2028), second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14042" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14042">Zack Gelof</a> (2029), plus right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10695" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10695">Luis Medina</a> (2028) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13836" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13836">Mitch Spence</a> (2029).</p><p>Soderstrom's extension continues a busy stretch for the A's, who <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3435010" href="https://thescore.com/news/3435010">acquired</a> veteran utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4912" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4912">Jeff McNeil</a> from the New York Mets last Monday. The club also inked reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9004" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9004">Mark Leiter Jr.</a> to a one-year deal earlier this month.</p><p>The A's clearly see a pathway to success in 2026 despite going 76-86 during their first season in West Sacramento. The nomadic franchise hasn't finished above .500 since 2021, the year after their most recent playoff appearance. However, Mark Kotsay's club finished 2025 strong, going 35-29 in the second half.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 26: Tyler Soderstrom #21 of the Athletics reacts after hitting a double during the bottom of the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Sutter Health Park on September 26, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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A's ink Soderstrom to 7-year extension reportedly worth $86M

Cody Bellinger has a new suitor out west.  The San Francisco Giants are among the teams intereste...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> has a new suitor out west.</p><p>The San Francisco Giants are among the teams interested in signing Bellinger, <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/12/25/sports/what-yankees-think-of-chances-of-losing-cody-bellinger-to-mets/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>Bellinger is no stranger to the Giants, having spent the bulk of his nine-year career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The longtime rivals now appear to be competing for Bellinger's services, as the Dodgers remain interested in a reunion with the 2019 NL MVP, Heyman adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The New York Yankees, where Bellinger played in 2025, are also continuing to try and re-sign the two-time All-Star, according to Heyman. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> is also a big fan of Bellinger's, as Heyman notes that the Yankees captain is pushing hard to keep him in pinstripes long term.</p><p>Bellinger's elite defense at all three outfield positions would make him a good fit to patrol spacious Oracle Park. He'd add another powerful left-handed bat to a solid Giants lineup already featuring slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> and fellow outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17231" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17231">Jung Hoo Lee</a>, plus top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18787" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18787">Bryce Eldridge</a>.</p><p>The Dodgers would also benefit greatly from Bellinger's defense in either corner outfield spot. He'd also come to the two-time defending champions at a cheaper cost than fellow Scott Boras client <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8173" href="/wbc/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>, while lengthening their lineup overall. Bellinger's familiarity with the Dodgers, his original organization, is also likely an asset for the team in their pursuit of his services.</p><p>Hitting into Yankee Stadium's short porch for the long term should also appeal to Bellinger. While general manager Brian Cashman <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1997851681674174605">said</a> earlier this month that he believes his team's lineup is too left-handed, retaining Bellinger would potentially give Cashman some flexibility to try and move one of their other lefty bats in a trade. </p><p>New York is currently projected to have five left-handed hitters - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8203" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8203">Trent Grisham</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16165">Ben Rice</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12678" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12678">Austin Wells</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4985" href="/mlb/players/4985">Ryan McMahon</a> - as regulars in 2026. Of that group, only McMahon is expected to be part of a platoon.</p><p>Bellinger is coming off a solid 2025 season that saw him hit .272/.334/.480 with 29 homers, 98 RBIs, and 13 steals over 152 games. He also displayed more patience at the plate, increasing his walk rate by nearly a full percentage point while simultaneously dropping his strikeout rate to a career-low 13.7%.</p><p>Defensively, Bellinger shuttled between all three outfield spots and was a positive defender in both corners, while also making seven appearances at first base.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 11: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees celebrates his fifth inning two run home run against the Chicago Cubs at Yankee Stadium on July 11, 2025 in New York City.

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Report: Giants interested in Bellinger; Dodgers, Yanks still pursuing star

The Buffalo Sabres fired general manager Kevyn Adams, the organization announced Monday.  Jarmo K...

<p>The Buffalo Sabres fired general manager Kevyn Adams, the organization announced Monday.</p><p>Jarmo Kekalainen, who joined the franchise as a senior adviser in May, was promoted as Adams' replacement. He assumes the position on a full-time basis.</p><p>"We are not where we need to be as an organization, and we are moving forward with new leadership within our hockey operations department," Sabres owner Terry Pegula said in a statement. "We are dedicated to building an organization that is competitive year after year, and we have fallen short of that expectation. ...</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Jarmo has distinguished himself over the last eight months, and his experience, professionalism, and drive speaks for itself. I am looking forward to him leading our organization to the next level."</p><p>Adams joined the organization as an assistant coach in 2011 and had served as GM since June 2020. Under his watch, the Sabres surpassed the 90-point mark just once, when they finished with 91 points in 2022-23. However, they missed the playoffs that year by one point. Adams' Sabres teams finished no higher than 20th in the NHL during any of his five full seasons in charge.</p><p>Buffalo hasn't reached the postseason since 2011 and last won a playoff round in 2007. The team finished 14th in the Eastern Conference last season and is currently tied with the Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets for the fewest points (32) in the East after a 14-14-4 start to this campaign.</p><p>Kekalainen, 59, was the Blue Jackets' GM for over a decade. He led Columbus to five playoff appearances and the first two playoff series wins in franchise history before being fired in February 2024.</p><p>"It is a great honor to be named general manager of the Buffalo Sabres," Kekalainen said. "I would like to extend my thanks to Terry and Kim Pegula for this opportunity. I am humbled to be the steward of this team and look forward to experiencing the passion that Sabres fans bring to every game."</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 29: Kevyn Adams of the Buffalo Sabres attends the NHL Draft at Sphere on June 29, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Sabres fire Kevyn Adams, promote Kekalainen to GM

Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard will be sidelined until at least early January after sustai...

<p>Chicago Blackhawks star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> will be sidelined until at least early January after sustaining an upper-body injury in Friday's game, head coach Jeff Blashill said Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/BenPopeCST/status/2000615118267166770">Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>.</p><p>There's no firm timetable for Bedard's return, as he won't be re-evaluated until the new year. Blashill said this is "what was expected" after the initial diagnosis.</p><p>Bedard, who was placed on injured reserve Monday, doesn't need surgery at this time, Blashill <a href="https://x.com/BenPopeCST/status/2000615625627258885">added</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 20-year-old center suffered what appeared to be a right shoulder injury while taking a faceoff in the final second of Friday's loss at St. Louis. After that game, Blashill <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3426137" href="https://thescore.com/news/3426137">described</a> the play as a "freak accident."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Connor Bedard appeared to injure his shoulder off the faceoff with less than a second left. <a href="https://t.co/NJHk84s9uO">pic.twitter.com/NJHk84s9uO</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1999687250926534977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The injury halts what's been a breakout season for the former first overall pick, who leads his team in goals (19), assists (25), and points (44). Bedard is just four goals shy of equaling his output over 82 games last season.</p><p>His play has helped lift the surprising Blackhawks into contention for a playoff spot. Chicago, which last reached the postseason in 2020, enters Monday sitting three points back of the San Jose Sharks for the final Western Conference wild-card berth.</p><p>Bedard's injury may also impact his chances of cracking Canada's squad for the Winter Olympics in February. Rosters for the tournament are due to be announced Dec. 31.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Connor Bedard's injury will sideline him until after Team Canada's 🇨🇦 Olympic roster is finalized. His 1.42 points per game this season trails only Nathan MacKinnon (1.72), Mark Stone (1.60) and Connor McDavid (1.58) among Canadians, and is equal to Macklin Celebrini's output.</p>— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) <a href="https://twitter.com/reporterchris/status/2000623589515788423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Chicago also recalled defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10654" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10654">Ethan Del Mastro</a> and goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2077" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2077">Laurent Brossoit</a> from the AHL on Monday.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - NOVEMBER 18: Connor Bedard #98 of the Chicago Blackhawks looks on during the second period against the Calgary Flames on November 18, 2025 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

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Bedard out until at least early January with upper-body injury

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