The Detroit Tigers locked up franchise shortstop Kevin McGonigle with an eight-year, $150-million...

The Detroit Tigers locked up franchise shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18596" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18596">Kevin McGonigle</a> with an eight-year, $150-million contract extension that starts in 2027 and goes through 2034, the club announced Wednesday.The deal includes a $14-million signing bonus, a $5-million assignment bonus if the player is traded, and performance escalators that can push the total value to $160 million.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kevin McGonigle 8-year, $150 million contract: $14 million signing bonus. 2027: $1M 2028: $7M 2029: $16M 2030: $21M 2031: $22M 2032: $23M ($25M if reaches escalators) 2033: $23M ($26M if reaches escalators 2034: $23M ($28M if reaches escalators) $5M if traded each time.— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) <a href="https://twitter.com/BNightengale/status/2044438130317771220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>McGonigle is the No. 2-ranked prospect in baseball, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects">MLB Pipeline</a>. The 21-year-old was selected with the 37th pick in the 2023 draft.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Since I've been drafted by the Tigers, the way I am, I'm loyal,” McGonigle said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/kevin-mcgonigle-tigers-contract-extension">Jason Beck of MLB.com</a>. "I want to stick in one spot and help a team to win a World Series."McGonigle is slashing .311/.417/.492 with one homer, eight RBIs, and 11 walks in 17 games as a rookie after making the Tigers out of spring training."You guys have already seen (it) on the field," president of baseball operations Scott Harris said. "He has some rare gifts in the batter's box, but what might be less obvious is he has the grit and the determination to be great, to get the absolute most out of these gifts."He has put in so much time, effort, and energy and getting the most out of his gift so far, and we expect that to continue throughout this contract and deep into his career."McGonigle's extension is the latest in a wave of deals for young shortstop prospects. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a> inked a nine-year, $140-million contract less than a week after his MLB debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Colt Emerson signed an eight-year, $95-million pact with the Seattle Mariners and Cooper Pratt got an eight-year, $50.75-million deal from the Milwaukee Brewers before either player reached the majors.

DETROIT, MI - APRIL 12: Kevin McGonigle #7 of the Detroit Tigers celebrates with teammates in the dugout after hitting his first major league home run in the 5th inning of the game against the Miami Marlins at Comerica Park on April 12, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. The Tigers defeated the Marlins 8-2.

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Tigers sign McGonigle to 8-year, $150M extension

Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Jorge Soler will serve a four-game ban for his role in start...

Los Angeles Angels designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler </a>will serve a four-game ban for his role in starting a benches-clearing melee with the Atlanta Braves last week, the Angels said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/RhettBollinger/status/2044495753473663071">Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com</a>.Soler will miss the last two games of Los Angeles' current series against the New York Yankees and the first two contests of the weekend series versus the San Diego Padres.The 34-year-old was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3517868" href="https://thescore.com/news/3517868">originally suspended</a> for seven games but appealed MLB's decision.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Braves pitcher Reynaldo López had his ban lowered to five contests last Wednesday after also initially receiving a seven-game suspension. The right-hander didn't miss a start as a result of an off day.Soler and López exchanged punches on April 7 after the slugger charged the mound following the hurler's high-and-tight pitch.

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 7: Benches clear as pitcher Reynaldo López #40 of the Atlanta Braves and right fielder Jorge Soler #12 of the Los Angeles Angels fight on the field during the fifth inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 7, 2026 in Anaheim, California.

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Soler's suspension reduced to 4 games for Angels-Braves brawl

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen isn't panicking despite his team's rough start to the season.  Co...

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen isn't panicking despite his team's rough start to the season.Cohen used social media to share several positive takeaways from Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, which extended the Mets' losing streak to seven games."Nobody likes to lose but I saw some 'green shoots tonight,'" Cohen <a href="https://x.com/StevenACohen2/status/2044285702985437291?s=20">wrote</a> on X. "On offense, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">(Francisco) Lindor</a> had two hits including a home run. (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo) Bichette</a> got a double hitting it to left field as opposed to recently being right-field prone. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19109">(Carson) Benge</a> got a solid hit. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">(Juan) Soto</a> started his running progression today. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">(Marcus) Semien</a> hit a shot that might have been a home run on a warmer night. Finally, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a> pitched an outstanding game, going seven innings.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Hang in there fans, we will turn this around!"New York (7-11) struck out at least 10 times for a fourth straight contest. The Mets trailed by one in the ninth and Bichette, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10690" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10690">Francisco Alvarez</a> all went down swinging."It's easy to put too much pressure on yourself," manager Carlos Mendoza said postgame, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/mets-losing-skid-f5f9f9a21517d2e2de8721c000e5bce8">Beth Harris of The Associated Press</a>. "You got to go back to your fundamentals, you got to go back to what got you to this level, understanding that you are a great hitter. ..."I know it's tough right now, but the last thing you could do is just panic and try to do too much."The Mets are 3-7 since Soto sustained a calf injury April 3.New York sits last in the NL East despite an offseason roster overhaul that brought in Bichette, Semien, Polanco, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>.

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14: New York Mets outfielder Luis Robert Jr. (88) reacts to striking out with two runners in scoring position in the 8th inning of the MLB game between the New York Mets and the Los Angeles Dodgers on April 14, 2026 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA.

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Cohen stays positive amid Mets' 7-game skid: 'We will turn this around'

Ty Gibbs has a famous last name and has spent much of his life in the spotlight, recently being u...

Ty Gibbs has a famous last name and has spent much of his life in the spotlight, recently <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-jgr-gabehart-lawsuit-spire-c2b26afd0c9ae9bea9ec3160198be80c">being unwittingly thrust</a> into the center <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-gibbs-spire-gabehart-data-760bc194476c2453c64e168ba5e7d86d">of a contentious court case</a>.The attention is less than comfortable for the grandson of Joe Gibbs, a Hall of Fame legend as a championship team owner in NASCAR and a Super Bowl-winning coach in the NFL.“Yeah, I feel like I could be a lot bigger in the community than what I am,” Ty Gibbs said about his place in NASCAR <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-bristol-joe-ty-gibbs-0685c9c7d11049f6a7167c2dc640ae57">after his first career victory Sunday</a> at Bristol Motor Speedway. “I just enjoy privacy. I don’t really want to show off a lot, too. I just enjoy training on my bike, getting strong, working hard during the week. I’m not here to be a moving billboard. I don’t really care. I don’t have any social media on my phone at the moment. I just really enjoy racing and focusing on myself.”<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The focus at Bristol was squarely on the 23-year-old after he deftly fended off NASCAR champions Ryan Blaney and Kyle Larson on a two-lap overtime restart. The relief of finally breaking through in his 131st Cup start was evident. Gibbs celebrated by playfully crashing his grandfather’s national TV interview and handing the checkered flag to his mother, Heather, before giving her a ride to victory lane in the No. 54 Toyota.“It’s just a thrill to see this happen because I don’t know how to explain it,” said Joe Gibbs, who has half of his eight grandchildren working at Joe Gibbs Racing, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-cup-championship-hendrick-gibbs-28e29a6a3df7c126f7198b72a4ed8d5a">the team he founded 35 years ago</a>. “It’s just a special feeling for all of us. I called my wife, and she’s crying. The whole family is crying. We love this. We really appreciate what today meant to us and the family.”The narrative was positive for the Gibbs organization, which has been ensnared <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-indycar-gibbs-spire-gabehart-lawsuit-84740bfd1539aebd87b619f48f9c3363">in some unflattering headlines</a> after <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-jgr-gabehart-lawsuit-0dc501bec7f345ea374dc6dcbc658167">suing former competition director Chris Gabehart</a> for breach of contract.In a court filing, Gabehart said he expressed “serious concerns” about team management after he felt pressured to help Ty Gibbs (and was moved to the No. 54 pit box to call strategy). Gabehart said Gibbs “was not held to the same meeting attendance standards as others on the team.”After the Bristol win, Gibbs made multiple references to “people saying false things” (without naming Gabehart) and steadfastly reaffirmed his work ethic.”I’ve stayed after it the whole time,” Gibbs said. “Obviously, people are going to say false things about how I wasn’t present in meetings. I’ve been the same the whole time, just to clarify that.”But others have noticed a change in his demeanor. To defuse the driver’s frustration during races, crew chief Tyler Allen said “a huge focus” entering 2026 was on keeping it fun because a “loose, fun Ty is a fast Ty.”During a stretch of four consecutive finishes of sixth or better before Bristol, Gibbs impressed his teammates by speaking up in debriefs with helpful advice.“He’s been in a good mood,” JGR driver Christopher Bell said. “He’s happy. Ty is killing it. It’s fun to see his confidence is literally radiating from him. He’s really switched on right now. He’s taken a huge step, and he’s a joy to be around right now.”Gibbs, who was involved <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-playoffs-hamlin-gibbs-7420215379bef5a0797c555a3f0037c8">in a run-in last year with teammate Denny Hamlin</a>, was a little defensive about whether he had changed that much.“I’ve always had fun,” he said. “I think that’s taken out of turn. I truly enjoy the position I’m in. Obviously, being around such a great group of people is so much fun. These guys love racing as much as I do, or even more, and I know I love it a lot.”Joe Gibbs hopes more people see that side of his grandson.“He’s really, really got a good sense of humor,” Gibbs said. “We laugh all the time. I think the farther we go in this sport, hopefully, his personality and everything come out, the kind of kid he is. When I’m around him, he’s fun.”Pit crew woesBristol runner-up Blaney’s pit crew ranked 32nd of 37 teams in Sunday’s race, raising questions about how long Team Penske can stay patient with a group that has squandered more than 80 positions on pit stops over the past seven races.“We’ve got to get better for sure,” said Blaney, who lost seven spots on two mediocre pit stops midrace at Bristol. “If we’re going to keep competing and get cars that can win, we’ve got to clean that up.”Hendrick strugglesA <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-hendrick-martinsville-elliott-0b5f9fb6d23676f2fb95d52e360d110f">Martinsville Speedway win</a> didn’t provide much momentum for Chase Elliott, who finished 22nd after starting 18th. Teammates William Byron (30th) and Alex Bowman (37th) also struggled for Hendrick Motorsports, which has 13 top 10s among its four drivers through eight races.Hendrick vice chairman Jeff Gordon addressed the slow start before Sunday's race. “We’re being challenged right now, not that I don’t like it, but also I love it because I know what we’re capable of, and I love watching us do the climb,” Gordon said. “It teaches us things about ourselves, and I think it only makes us stronger.”___ AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>

BRISTOL, TENNESSEE - APRIL 12: Ty Gibbs, driver of the #54 Monster Energy Toyota, celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Food City 500 at Bristol Motor Speedway on April 12, 2026 in Bristol, Tennessee.

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Gibbs having fun as Cup Series winner while trying to maintain low profile

The Houston Astros placed shortstop Jeremy Peña on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 1 hamstri...

The Houston Astros placed shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12665" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12665">Jeremy Peña</a> on the 10-day injured list with a Grade 1 hamstring strain and starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20139" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20139">Tatsuya Imai</a> on the 15-day IL with right arm fatigue, the club announced Monday.Peña was pulled from Saturday's game with what the Astros originally called knee tightness, while Imai recorded one out during a rough start Friday.Houston's rotation has lost Imai, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12893" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12893">Hunter Brown</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10662" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10662">Cristian Javier</a> in recent days.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Peña is slashing .256/.304/.349 with a stolen base in 10 games to start the season. The 28-year-old was named a 2025 All-Star en route to finishing 10th in AL MVP voting.Imai owns a 7.27 ERA across three starts in 2026. He joined the Astros on a three-year, $54-million contract in the offseason following a successful career in Japan.The Astros recalled right-hander J.P. France, left-hander Colton Gordon, and infielder Shay Whitcomb from Triple-A in a roster shuffle. Houston also optioned right-hander Jayden Murray.

HOUSTON, TX - JUNE 27: Jeremy Peña #3 of the Houston Astros walks to first base after being hit by a pitch during the game between the Chicago Cubs and the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on Friday, June 27, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Astros' Peña sidelined with hamstring strain, Imai out due to arm fatigue

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired infielder Lenyn Sosa from the Chicago White Sox for minor-league o...

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12907" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12907">Lenyn Sosa</a> from the Chicago White Sox for minor-league outfielder Jordan Rich and a player to be named later or cash, the clubs announced Monday.Sosa has gone 7-for-33 with three RBIs over 12 games this season. The 26-year-old went deep 22 times with 75 RBIs and a .727 OPS across 140 contests in 2025.The Blue Jays could use Sosa's defensive versatility amid a wave of injuries that's sidelined <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George Springer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14202">Addison Barger</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11875" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11875">Alejandro Kirk</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sosa has no minor-league options left.Right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a> was transferred to the 60-day injured list to make room on Toronto's 40-man roster.Rich, 18, hasn't made his professional debut. He was selected in the 17th round of the 2025 draft.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - APRIL 4: Lenyn Sosa #50 of the Chicago White Sox bats in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rate Field on April 4, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Blue Jays add Lenyn Sosa in trade with White Sox

The New York Mets promoted veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel on Saturday, the team announced.  Kimbr...

The New York Mets promoted veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1378">Craig Kimbrel</a> on Saturday, the team announced.Kimbrel signed a minor-league deal with the Mets in January. He's yet to pitch in the majors this season."It's a great opportunity just to come in here and try to help these guys out and throw up scoreless innings," Kimbrel said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNY_Mets/status/2043005516020859270?s=20">SNY</a>. "Just happy to get the opportunity and see what I can do with it."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 37-year-old right-hander appeared in 14 games split between the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros in 2025.He owns a career 2.58 ERA with a 1.02 WHIP and 14 K/9 over 16 years. His 440 saves are second to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1563" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1563">Kenley Jansen</a> among active pitchers."I get an adrenaline boost every time I get an opportunity to pitch in a big-league ballgame," Kimbrel <a href="https://x.com/SNY_Mets/status/2043006116984963394?s=20">added</a>. "Someone told me a long time ago, as soon as that goes away, it's time to go home."Kimbrel is a nine-time All-Star, a World Series champion (2018 Boston Red Sox), the 2011 NL Rookie of the Year, and a four-time Reliever of the Year (2012, 2013, 2014, and 2017). His resume gives him a strong chance to be inducted into the Hall of Fame when his playing career is over.Left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9557" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9557">Richard Lovelady</a> was designated for assignment to make room for Kimbrel on the active roster.

JUPITER, FL - MARCH 06: New York Mets pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) prepares to throw the ball from the mound during a MLB spring training game against the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium on March 6, 2026 in Jupiter, Florida.

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Mets call up former star reliever Kimbrel

The Detroit Tigers placed center fielder Parker Meadows on the 10-day injured list Friday with a ...

The Detroit Tigers placed center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10655" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10655">Parker Meadows</a> on the 10-day injured list Friday with a left radius fracture after he collided with teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12329" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12329">Riley Greene</a> in the eighth inning of Thursday's loss to the Minnesota Twins.Meadows also suffered a concussion and needed five stitches inside his mouth, according to <a href="https://x.com/EvanPetzold/status/2042679261908132177?s=20">Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press</a>. The 26-year-old doesn't have a timetable to return and is expected to miss significant time.Meadows and Greene crashed into each other after the two outfielders simultaneously went to make a play on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4609" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4609">Josh Bell</a>'s line drive. Greene held on for the catch, but Meadows fell to the ground and remained down for several minutes before being carted off the field.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Parker Meadows is carted off the field after a nasty collision in the outfield with Riley Greene <a href="https://t.co/5DCBp95WK9">pic.twitter.com/5DCBp95WK9</a>— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/2042334973428900321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"When we got out there, it looked like he had bit his lip or inside his mouth, so there was some blood, and he was pretty out of it," manager A.J. Hinch said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/parker-meadows-and-riley-greene-collision">Jason Beck of MLB.com</a>.He added, "Those are scary collisions. You don't know what you're going to get when you get there. Obviously, we're going to get him checked out for everything, but this one worries me."Greene echoed similar sentiments."I haven't looked at it," Greene said, per <a href="https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/04/09/detroit-tigers-swept-by-minnesota-twins-parker-meadows-injured/89531093007/">Chris McCosky of The Detroit News</a>. "The ball was in between us, and we just collided. It's a terrible feeling. I'm just hoping Parker is OK. He hit my head. I don't know where I hit him. I really hope he's OK."Detroit recalled outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11079" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11079">Wenceel Pérez</a> from Triple-A to take Meadows' spot on the active roster.The Twins swept the Tigers in the four-game series.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 09: Parker Meadows #22 of the Detroit Tigers is carted off the field after colliding with teammate Riley Greene #31 (not pictured) in the eighth inning at Target Field on April 09, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Twins defeated the Tigers 3-1.

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Tigers' Meadows out with broken arm, concussion after scary collision

Atlanta Braves right-hander Reynaldo López and Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Jorge Soler r...

Atlanta Braves right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5352" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5352">Reynaldo López</a> and Los Angeles Angels designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler</a> received seven-game suspensions for their roles in Tuesday's benches-clearing brawl, MLB announced Wednesday.López and Soler were also fined an undisclosed amount. Both players appealed their punishments.López already reached an agreement to have his ban reduced to five games, according to <a href="https://x.com/grantmcauley/status/2041982542421659872">Grant McAuley of 92.9 The Game</a>. The pitcher will begin serving the suspension immediately, which means he won't miss a start as a result of an off day.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Soler charged the mound after a high-and-tight pitch by López in the fifth inning, and the two players exchanged punches. Braves manager Walt Weiss helped end the melee by tackling Soler.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here’s what just took place in Anaheim: <a href="https://t.co/hL1myd5PJd">pic.twitter.com/hL1myd5PJd</a>— BravesVision (@BravesVisionTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/BravesVisionTV/status/2041717944049164300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>López threw punches at Soler while still holding the baseball.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
buddy got punched in the face with a baseball. <a href="https://t.co/mwzgpLYf0T">pic.twitter.com/mwzgpLYf0T</a>— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jared_Carrabis/status/2041877629712617964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Braves and Angels wrap up their three-game series Wednesday.

ANAHEIM, CA - APRIL 07: Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Jorge Soler (12) swings a punch at Atlanta Braves pitcher Reynaldo Lopez (40) on the mound as home plate umpire Edwin Moscoso trails the play during the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the Los Angeles Angels on April 7, 2026 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA.

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Kansas City Royals ace Cole Ragans left Wednesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians after ta...

Kansas City Royals ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14571" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14571">Cole Ragans</a> left Wednesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians after taking a comebacker off his pitching hand.Ragans was hit by a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4066" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4066">José Ramírez</a> liner in the first inning.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here's the video of Cole Ragans' apparent hand injury <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Royals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Royals</a> <a href="https://t.co/sJRDj3VyB9">pic.twitter.com/sJRDj3VyB9</a>— Jaylon T. Thompson (@jaylonthompson) <a href="https://twitter.com/jaylonthompson/status/2041936794141225008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Royals announced Ragans suffered a thumb contusion, according to <a href="https://x.com/anne__rogers/status/2041954971336237343?s=20">Anne Rogers of MLB.com</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Manager Matt Quatraro said postgame that Ragans didn't break any bones, per Royals broadcaster <a href="https://x.com/goldbergkc/status/2041971345005625428">Joel Goldberg</a>.The left-hander initially stayed in the game after a lengthy visit by Quatraro and head athletic trainer Kyle Turner but departed after facing the next two hitters - including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17370" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17370">Chase DeLauter</a>, who hit a two-run double.Ragans logged just 61 2/3 innings (13 starts) in 2025 due to multiple injuries.The 28-year-old finished fourth in AL Cy Young voting in 2024.

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 08: Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans (55) leaves the game during the first inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians on April 8, 2026, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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Royals' Ragans exits after pitching hand struck by liner

The Pittsburgh Pirates and MLB's No. 1 prospect Konnor Griffin are close to finalizing a nine-yea...

The Pittsburgh Pirates and MLB's No. 1 prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a> are close to finalizing a nine-year, $140-million contract extension, according to <a href="https://x.com/Buster_ESPN/status/2039795767477674314?s=20">Buster Olney of ESPN</a>.The deal - if finalized - will establish a new record in terms of compensation for a player who has yet to debut in the majors, besting Colt Emerson's eight-year, $95-million pact signed with the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday.Griffin, the consensus No. 1 prospect in baseball, is expected to make his MLB debut Friday in the Pirates' home opener against the Baltimore Orioles. The 19-year-old shortstop will be the first teenaged position player to suit up in the majors since Juan Soto in 2018.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Griffin was one of the last cuts during spring training but responded with a torrid start in the first five Triple-A games of his career, going 7-for-16 with three stolen bases and five walks. In 2025, he slashed .333/.415/.527 with 21 homers, 94 RBIs, and 65 steals across 122 contests between three minor-league levels.The Pirates selected Griffin with the No. 9 pick in the 2024 draft.

BRADENTON, FLORIDA - MARCH 20, 2026: Konnor Griffin #75 of the Pittsburgh Pirates warms up prior to a spring training Spring Breakout game against the Detroit Tigers at LECOM Park on March 20, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida.

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Report: Pirates, Griffin nearing 9-year, $140M extension

The Konnor Griffin era is here for the Pittsburgh Pirates.  The 19-year-old shortstop phenom is g...

The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a> era is here for the Pittsburgh Pirates.The 19-year-old shortstop phenom is getting called up to make his MLB debut against the Baltimore Orioles for the Pirates' home opener Friday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Opening Debut. <a href="https://t.co/ILemWfjIHS">pic.twitter.com/ILemWfjIHS</a>— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pirates/status/2039709840944054769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Griffin is the consensus No. 1 prospect in all of baseball. He will be the first teenaged position player to suit up in the majors since Juan Soto in 2018.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Griffin was one of the last cuts during spring training but responded with a torrid start in the first five Triple-A games of his career. He went 7-for-16 with three stolen bases and five walks to earn the promotion. His latest offensive showing came after slashing .333/.415/.527 with 21 homers, 94 RBIs, and 65 steals across 122 contests between three minor-league levels in 2025.The Pirates selected Griffin with the No. 9 pick in the 2024 draft.Pittsburgh's front office and Griffin are also deep in extension talks, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/48370345/sources-pirates-konnor-griffin-holding-contract-negotiations">Buster Onley of ESPN</a>.The team's offers are closer to the eight-year, $111-million deal Corbin Carroll signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks in March 2023, while Griffin's camp is looking for something similar to Roman Anthony's eight-year, $130-million pact with the Boston Red Sox, according to Olney.

BRADENTON, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 12: Konnor Griffin #75 of the Pittsburgh Pirates at bat during a spring training workout at Pirate City on February 12, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida.

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The Seattle Mariners and top shortstop prospect Colt Emerson agreed to an eight-year contract ext...

The Seattle Mariners and top shortstop prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17510" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17510">Colt Emerson</a> agreed to an eight-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.Emerson's deal is for $95 million and includes a ninth-year club option, a full no-trade clause, and escalators that can bring the total north of $130 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2038972820907274479?s=20">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>."Colt is a tremendous person and true all-around player who is committed to achieving excellence in everything he does, both on and off the field," president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto said in a statement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We all look forward to his eventual arrival in Seattle, where he will be a Mariner for many years to come."Emerson's agreement establishes a record for a player who has yet to debut in the majors, reports <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2038974910094082515?s=20">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>. The deal comes a day after the Milwaukee Brewers made headlines for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3511281" href="https://thescore.com/news/3511281">reportedly</a> finalizing an eight-year extension with shortstop Cooper Pratt, who also hasn't appeared in an MLB game."I am excited to play for the Mariners for a really long time," Emerson said in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/DKramer_/status/2039131240310378709">MLB.com's Daniel Kramer</a>. "The people in the organization, including my teammates, the staff, and the Seattle fans are a big reason why my family and I love being here and want to stay here."The 20-year-old Emerson is the No. 7-ranked prospect in all of baseball, per <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/top100/">MLB Pipeline</a>.Emerson hit 16 homers with 78 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and an .842 OPS over 130 games between three minor-league levels in 2025.Seattle selected Emerson with the No. 22 pick in the 2023 draft.

PEORIA, ARIZONA - MARCH 13: Colt Emerson #85 of the Seattle Mariners runs to third base during the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Peoria Stadium on March 13, 2026 in Peoria, Arizona.

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Mariners, Emerson agree to 8-year extension reportedly worth $95M

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Cody Ponce sustained an ACL sprain in his right knee and will miss...

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> sustained an ACL sprain in his right knee and will miss significant time, manager John Schneider said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/2039076278272164045?s=20">Shi Davidi of Sportsnet</a>.The Blue Jays are waiting for second opinions before determining how to proceed with Ponce's injury.The 31-year-old could need extensive rehab instead of surgery since he avoided a full tear, reports <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/2039076831840632914?s=20">Hazel Mae of Sportsnet.</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ponce <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3511448" href="https://thescore.com/news/3511448">hurt himself</a> while fielding a grounder during Monday's loss to the Colorado Rockies - his first MLB appearance since 2021. He joined Toronto on a three-year, $30-million deal in the offseason after winning the 2025 KBO MVP in South Korea.Schneider added that the team won't adjust its rotation through the next turn, per <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2039080186440720894?s=20">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>. For additional pitching depth, the club has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18911" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18911">Lazaro Estrada</a> on hand, along with Adam Macko, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12889" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12889">CJ Van Eyk</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17252" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17252">Chad Dallas</a>.Ponce joins <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber,</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a> as notable Blue Jays starters currently sidelined.

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 30: Toronto Blue Jays Starting Pitcher Cody Ponce (66) reacts after an injury during the MLB regular season game between the Colorado Rockies and the Toronto Blue Jays on March 30, 2026, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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Blue Jays' Ponce has ACL sprain, will miss significant time

Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban isn't happy with his business partners.  "I don't regr...

Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban isn't happy with his business partners."I don't regret selling," Cuban said during an episode of the "Intersections" podcast published Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48356499/mark-cuban-says-regrets-selling-mavericks-adelson-dumont-families">Tim MacMahon of ESPN</a>. "I regret who I sold to. I made a lot of mistakes in the process, and I'll leave it at that."Cuban sold his majority share of the Mavericks to the Adelson and Dumont families for $3.5 billion in December 2023. He explained that one motivation for the sale was that he didn't want his family tied to the team.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"My kids, they were coming of age where they would have the mindset that they want to work at the Mavs," Cuban said. "I didn't want them to. If fans don't like what you're doing or the team's not doing well, you're the worst human being on the planet."The 67-year-old believed after the sale that he would still have a major role in the team's basketball operations, despite Patrick Dumont being named governor. However, Cuban continuing to make basketball operation decisions wasn't part of the deal, sources told MacMahon.Cuban was upset after Dumont approved the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025. He learned about the completed deal when he received a call from now-fired general manager Nico Harrison.Cuban still owns a 27% stake in the Mavericks.

DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 5: Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban looks on during a game between the Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs in the first half at American Airlines Center on February 5, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

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Cuban: I 'regret' selling Mavericks to Adelson, Dumont families

Masai Ujiri has found his next big basketball role in Canada.  The former longtime Toronto Raptor...

Masai Ujiri has found his next big basketball role in Canada.The former longtime Toronto Raptors president joined the expansion Toronto Tempo as a principal owner, the WNBA team announced Tuesday.Ujiri will play a role in developing women's basketball leaders through a new coaching mentorship program.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A leader who changed the game for Canada now joins the team ready to change it again 🤝 Welcome to the Tempo, Masai Ujiri! We’re thrilled to have you as a Principal Owner. Presented by Sephora Canada <a href="https://t.co/PRwg7AsYXc">pic.twitter.com/PRwg7AsYXc</a>— Toronto Tempo (@TempoBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TempoBasketball/status/2038920581727346844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"As an honourary Canadian, I’m excited to be part of the Tempo team as I believe they are building something truly historic - a franchise that represents not only Canada, but the future of basketball," Ujiri said.The 55-year-old was let go by the Raptors last June following a 12-year run between that was highlighted by the franchise's first and only NBA championship in 2019."I want to win with the Tempo and I want to win another NBA championship because I wasn't able to celebrate and be happy because of that police incident that happened to me," Ujiri told <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48354693/masai-ujiri-joins-ownership-group-wnba-toronto-tempo">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>.Ujiri is referring to an incident where a sheriff's deputy stopped him from entering the court to celebrate the Raptors' title over the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena after Ujiri didn't provide the proper credentials, which lead to an altercation.Maple Leaf Sport &amp; Entertainment board member Larry Tanenbaum, tennis legend Serena Williams, and Montreal Canadiens owner Geoff Molson are among other major names that are part of the Tempo ownership group.The Tempo will kick off their inaugural season May 8 against the Washington Mystics at Toronto's Coca-Cola Coliseum.

TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 2: Toronto Raptors general manager Masai Ujiri speaks during Vince Carter's jersey retirement ceremony at halftime of a game between the Sacramento Kings and the Toronto Raptors on November 2, 2024 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Ex-Raptors president Ujiri joins Tempo ownership

The Milwaukee Brewers and shortstop Cooper Pratt are finalizing an eight-year, $50.75-million con...

The Milwaukee Brewers and shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17536" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17536">Cooper Pratt</a> are finalizing an eight-year, $50.75-million contract extension with two club options, according <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2038708720092262590">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>.Pratt's options will be worth $15 million per season, reports <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2038703088111104052?s=20">Bob Nightengale of USA Today</a>."What's not to like?" Brewers manager Pat Murphy said of Pratt, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/milwaukee-brewers-cooper-pratt-c12719aaef9ad3459be7fa9fd5d4c53b">Steve Megargee of The Associated Press</a>. "Aptitude. He's a baseball player. He's a good baseball player. He's got a ways to go. He's got to develop. Great human, a worker."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 21-year-old prospect has appeared in just three Triple-A games and has never played in the majors.Pratt hit eight homers with 62 RBIs, 31 stolen bases, and a .691 OPS over 120 contests in Double-A during the 2025 campaign. He's the No. 4-ranked prospect in the Brewers' minor-league system and considered an exceptional defender.Milwaukee selected Pratt in the sixth round of the 2023 draft.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 23: Cooper Pratt #87 of the Milwaukee Brewers up to bat against the Cincinnati Reds during the exhibition game at American Family Field on March 23, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) — Alan Gustafson ignored the phone call while packing a suitcase for the S...

<div>
MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) — Alan Gustafson ignored the phone call while packing a suitcase for the Sunday morning drive to Martinsville Speedway. Then he saw whom he’d missed — <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nascar-racing">NASCAR</a> Cup Series <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-rick-hendrick-300-wins-byron-gordon-a93cc00b54118921b1e506f3e16edee1">team owner Rick Hendrick</a>.
“I better get on it,” Gustafson said with a chuckle. “As soon as I got in the car, I called him right back.”
The founder of Hendrick Motorsports had a message that he wanted the crew chief for Chase Elliott to deliver to his team, and it set the tone <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-martinsville-elliott-hamlin-da4e7412cdbe79a570e17593d9eff2b9">for their first victory of the season</a>.
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
“He just basically was super positive,” Gustafson said. “The quote from him was: ‘This is a marathon, not a 10K race. We’re in it for the long run. Regardless of the way it starts, it’s about the way it finishes.’"
That certainly was the case at Martinsville, where Elliott started 10th and was hardly a factor as Denny Hamlin led the first 292 of 317 laps <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-martinsville-qualifying-hamlin-10ce78581bb44707a9b8a6e1dd0a57e1">from the pole</a>.
But Gustafson made the critical call for an early pit stop that vaulted the No. 9 Chevrolet to the front, and Elliott led the final 69 laps for his 22nd career win despite having the sixth-fastest car, according to Racing Insights, a NASCAR analytics firm.
His victory in the seventh race is the earliest in a season for the 2020 Cup champion, who now enters an off week with some peace of mind.
“That was one of the first things I thought about,” Elliott said of winning early. “Man, this is awesome. We’ve never done that. Going into the off week with the win is really cool. I know we still have a lot of room for improvement, don’t get me wrong, but a great way to cap off this first stretch. A lot of good momentum for the whole organization.”
After a rough start of four top-five finishes among its four cars through the first six races, it’s fitting that Hendrick Motorsports earned its first victory of 2026 at Martinsville Speedway.
The team has a record 31 wins at the short track, which typifies the performance and resilience of NASCAR’s winningest outfit and its redoubtable founder.
Rick Hendrick lost his son, a brother, two nieces and two key executives <a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-virginia-kansas-nascar-kyle-larson-cdd3bd6faf3b6797ed559c93b6062ce2">when a Hendrick plane crashed</a> en route to Martinsville on Oct. 24, 2004. The team pushed through the tragedy, and Sunday marked its record 321st victory in NASCAR’s premier series (along with 15 championships, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-championship-hamlin-briscoe-byron-bell-phoenix-8ffacadac0bfd868f2794c944041297a">most recently last season with Kyle Larson</a> ).
This year’s struggles pale by comparison. With a new Camaro body necessitating setup adjustments, Hendrick also wasn’t alone in being behind — Chevy teams were winless through six races for the first time since 2019.
“I hate it when we go through stuff like this, but we’ve been through this before,” said Hendrick vice chairman Jeff Gordon, who had four championships and 93 wins <a href="https://apnews.com/jeff-gordons-influence-on-nascar-honored-at-hall-of-fame-9f4cca7f34654fdaac7724d84947faa9">in a Hall of Fame driving career</a> for the team. “You lean on your tools more. You get back to the basics.”
Part of the team’s foundation is an actively engaged owner offering a constant source of encouragement behind the scenes.
Before calling Gustafson on Sunday morning, Hendrick rang Elliott on Saturday night. The driver said he “shot the breeze” with Hendrick about his car dealerships and the performance of Elliott’s car. Hendrick, who juggles racing with running an automotive empire, also revealed he’d miss Sunday’s race.
Though there was no discussion of his season, Elliott knew Hendrick had his back.
“I feel that all the time from him,” Elliott said. “He’s always done a great job of just showing support to me, whether things are going good or bad. Always cool to hear from him.”
Gordon said the conversations aren’t always pleasant. In fact, Hendrick’s “kick in the butt” sessions are legendary.
There was the “pork chop meeting” at a race in the early 2000s when Hendrick destroyed the dinner he was holding in his hand while railing about an issue (the meat allegedly flew off the bone he angrily waved and struck a crew chief).
Hendrick held <a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-jimmie-johnson-charlotte-nascar-2084271b43055ce6bf1ba103a4727775">the famous “milk and cookies meeting”</a> with Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus when the pair wanted to split after the 2005 season. With milk and cookies as props, Hendrick underscored that his star driver and crew chief were acting like petulant children.
The message was heeded. Johnson and Knaus won the next five Cup championships and seven overall, and they entered the NASCAR Hall of Fame together in 2024.
“This is what I love about his style is that he mixes it up,” Gordon said about Hendrick. “He’ll surprise you. Some days, he will just get fired up. Then there’s the days where you think you’re going to get that, and he is calm and just positive and supportive. His experience of being in business, he knows how to read a room, how to read people and how to motivate them when they need it most.”
In this case, Gustafson said the check-in by the boss helped remove any prerace pressure.
“Ultimately, go out and have some fun,” Gustafson said. “Don’t focus on any of the noise, focus on what we can control. It was just nice to hear from him. He’s the master of knowing what to say at the right time.”
___
AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>
</div>

MARTINSVILLE, VA - MARCH 29: Chase Elliott (#9 Hendrick Motorsports UniFirst Chevrolet) celebrates in Victory Lane following the running of the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400 on March 29, 2026, at Martinsville Speedway in Martinsville, VA.

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Home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor had a rough day at the office.  Bucknor saw six calls overturned b...

Home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor had a rough day at the office.Bucknor saw six calls overturned by the new ABS challenge system during the Cincinnati Reds' 6-5 win in extras over the Boston Red Sox on Saturday.The 63-year-old had back-to-back third strikes reversed by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a>'s challenges in the sixth inning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
C.B. Bucknor tried to ring up Eugenio Suárez on back-to-back pitches. Suárez challenged both and won both challenges. (H/T: <a href="https://twitter.com/tylermilliken_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tylermilliken_</a>) <a href="https://t.co/erzchAXPw0">pic.twitter.com/erzchAXPw0</a>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/2038021628542832868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Reds went 5-for-5 on challenges in the contest, while the Red Sox were 1-for-3.Bucknor also punched out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4232" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4232">Trevor Story</a> on a check-swing call in the eighth without asking for help from the first base ump. Story was livid with the call, and Red Sox manager Alex Cora was eventually ejected after supporting his player.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Home plate umpire CB Bucknor ruled Trevor Story swung here 🤔🧐 <a href="https://t.co/kMKTsQpWik">pic.twitter.com/kMKTsQpWik</a>— NESN (@NESN) <a href="https://twitter.com/NESN/status/2038029499409821875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"He has one job to do: call balls and strikes," Cora said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/NESN/status/2038043555944358030">NESN</a>. "It wasn't his best day. That's what the system does. It's out there. Everybody sees it. He'll be the first one to accept it. I saw him putting his head down after one of the challenges. We're all human."Bucknor, who's one of the longest-tenured active umps, has worked in the majors since 1996.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 09: Home plate umpire CB Bucknor looks on during the third inning of the game between the San Diego Padres and the Boston Red Sox at Petco Park on August 09, 2025 in San Diego, California.

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The Chicago Cubs and second baseman Nico Hoerner agreed to a six-year, $141-million contract exte...

The Chicago Cubs and second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10637">Nico Hoerner</a> agreed to a six-year, $141-million contract extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2037655212022718521?s=20">Jeff Passan of ESPN</a>.The reported deal is the fourth-largest pact for a second baseman in MLB history. Only Robinson Canó, Marcus Semien, and Jose Altuve received more guaranteed money.Deferrals will take the current-day value of Hoerner's contract into the mid-$130-million range, according to <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/2037658199617151477?s=20">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hoerner also received a full no-trade clause, reports <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2037676975675126208?s=20">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.The 28-year-old would've been a free agent at the end of the 2026 season.Hoerner owns a career .282/.340/.384 slash line with 36 homers, 128 doubles, 278 RBIs, and 131 stolen bases over seven seasons with the Cubs. He's accumulated 17.4 fWAR since 2022.The two-time Gold Glover is one of the best defenders in baseball at the keystone position. He finished in the 98th percentile for outs above average in 2025.The reported extension comes days after the Cubs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3506804" href="https://thescore.com/news/3506804">agreed</a> to a six-year, $115-million pact with All-Star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12736">Pete Crow-Armstrong</a>. Chicago also landed third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> in free agency with a five-year, $175-million deal in January.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 9: Nico Hoerner #2 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates a hit in Game Four of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field on October 9, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Cubs, Hoerner agree to 6-year, $141M extension

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Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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