INSIDER
Yamamoto outduels Darvish in historic matchup as Dodgers beat Padres 2-0 to reach NLCS
Read full article: Yamamoto outduels Darvish in historic matchup as Dodgers beat Padres 2-0 to reach NLCSYoshinobu Yamamoto outdueled Yu Darvish in a historic playoff matchup of Japanese-born starters, and the Los Angeles Dodgers got home runs from Kikรฉ Hernรกndez and Teoscar Hernรกndez to beat the San Diego Padres 2-0 and advance to the National League Championship Series.
Dodgers will start Yamamoto against San Diego's Darvish in winner-take-all Game 5 of NLDS
Read full article: Dodgers will start Yamamoto against San Diego's Darvish in winner-take-all Game 5 of NLDSShohei Ohtani will get his wish to see Los Angeles Dodgers teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto face off against San Diego's Yu Darvish in the decisive Game 5 of the National League Division Series.
Dodgers turn to Brasier to start NLDS Game 4 vs Padres as they try to stave off elimination
Read full article: Dodgers turn to Brasier to start NLDS Game 4 vs Padres as they try to stave off eliminationThe Los Angeles Dodgers are going with reliever Ryan Brasier as their starter for Game 4 against the San Diego Padres as they try to avoid elimination in their NL Division Series.
Dodger Stadium fans toss balls and trash on field, interrupt Padres' 10-2 win that evens NLDS
Read full article: Dodger Stadium fans toss balls and trash on field, interrupt Padres' 10-2 win that evens NLDSFans threw baseballs in the direction of San Diego left fielder Jurickson Profar and then tossed trash that caused a lengthy delay before the Padres beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 10-2 and to even their NL Division Series at a game apiece.
Tossed balls from stands, apparently aimed at Profar, interrupt Padres' win in NLDS Game 2
Read full article: Tossed balls from stands, apparently aimed at Profar, interrupt Padres' win in NLDS Game 2Dodger Stadium fans tossed baseballs, apparently at San Diego left fielder Jurickson Profar, and then threw trash that caused a 12-minute wait between pitches during the seventh inning of NL Division Series Game 2.
White Sox lose 120th game to tie post-1900 record by the 1962 expansion New York Mets
Read full article: White Sox lose 120th game to tie post-1900 record by the 1962 expansion New York MetsThe Chicago White Sox tied the post-1900 record of 120 losses by the 1962 expansion New York Mets when the San Diego Padres won 4-2 by rallying for three runs in the eighth inning, highlighted by Fernando Tatis Jr.โs towering home run.
Padres acquire RHP Dylan Cease in multiplayer trade with White Sox
Read full article: Padres acquire RHP Dylan Cease in multiplayer trade with White SoxThe San Diego Padres have acquired right-hander Dylan Cease in a trade with the Chicago White Sox for reliever Steven Wilson and three prospects: right-handers Drew Thorpe and Jairo Iriarte, and outfielder Samuel Zavala.
Padres rally for 2-game Mexican sweep, beat Giants 6-4
Read full article: Padres rally for 2-game Mexican sweep, beat Giants 6-4Matt Carpenter capped an eighth-inning rally with a tiebreaking, two-run double off the glove of diving centerfielder Mike Yastrzemski, and the San Diego Padres beat the San Francisco Giants 6-4 for a two-game sweep of Major League Baseballโs first regular-season series in Mexico City.
Scherzer rebounds, Mets blank Padres 5-0 in playoff rematch
Read full article: Scherzer rebounds, Mets blank Padres 5-0 in playoff rematchMax Scherzer shut down the San Diego Padres for five innings, rebounding from his postseason flop against them last year, and the New York Mets won 5-0 in a playoff rematch between National League heavyweights.
Ohtani leads Japan over South Korea 13-4 at World Classic
Read full article: Ohtani leads Japan over South Korea 13-4 at World ClassicShohei Ohtani doubled and singled for his second straight two-hit game, and Japan overcame a three-run deficit to beat South Korea 13-4 for its second straight win at the World Baseball Classic.
Spotlight turns to baseball and Padres' weighty expectations
Read full article: Spotlight turns to baseball and Padres' weighty expectationsJust hours after confetti fell on the NFL champion Kansas City Chiefs in Glendale, Arizona, the sports spotlight shifted to baseball as pitchers and catchers who will play in the World Baseball Classic began reporting to spring training complexes throughout the Phoenix area and in Florida.
Yu Darvish gets $90 million from Padres to stay through '28
Read full article: Yu Darvish gets $90 million from Padres to stay through '28Yu Darvish has signed a new contract with the San Diego Padres that guarantees the pitcher an additional $90 million and will keep him with the club through the 2028 season.
Padres pull out 5-3 victory over Dodgers, tie NLDS 1-all
Read full article: Padres pull out 5-3 victory over Dodgers, tie NLDS 1-allManny Machado homered early and added an RBI double off Clayton Kershaw, and Jurickson Profar singled home the go-ahead run in the sixth inning as the San Diego Padres beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 5-3 to even their NL Division Series at a game apiece.
Dodgers beat Padres 4-0, make statement with 3-game sweep
Read full article: Dodgers beat Padres 4-0, make statement with 3-game sweepCody Bellinger hit two homers, Tyler Anderson allowed two hits over seven innings and the Los Angeles Dodgers completed a statement-making sweep of the revamped San Diego Padres with a 4-0 victory.
Carpenter hammers Cubs; 2 HRs, 7 RBIs in Yanks' 18-4 rout
Read full article: Carpenter hammers Cubs; 2 HRs, 7 RBIs in Yanks' 18-4 routMatt Carpenter homered twice and tied his career high with seven RBIs, powering the New York Yankees to complete a weekend sweep of the Chicago Cubs with a 18-4 rout for their 11th win in 12 games.
Darvish rebounds, Padres beat Braves 2-1 despite just 3 hits
Read full article: Darvish rebounds, Padres beat Braves 2-1 despite just 3 hitsYu Darvish rebounded from the shortest outing of his career by dominating into the seventh inning and the San Diego Padres beat the Atlanta Braves 2-1 despite having just three hits.
LEADING OFF: Struggling Padres face Braves, Turner on a roll
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Struggling Padres face Braves, Turner on a rollThe Padresโ hopes of shaking off a disappointing 2021 arenโt off to a great start โ San Diego has lost four of five heading into its series finale against the World Series champion Braves.
LEADING OFF: Struggling Padres face Braves, Buxton OK
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Struggling Padres face Braves, Buxton OKThe Padresโ hopes of shaking off a disappointing 2021 arenโt off to a great start โ San Diego has lost four of five heading into a series finale against the World Series champion Braves.
Giants miss chance to clinch NL West, fall to Padres in 10th
Read full article: Giants miss chance to clinch NL West, fall to Padres in 10thThe San Francisco Giants missed a chance to clinch the NL West on their own field, falling to the San Diego Padres 3-2 when Jake Cronenworth hit an RBI double in the 10th inning.
LEADING OFF: Scherzer unbeaten with Dodgers, faces Reds
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Scherzer unbeaten with Dodgers, faces RedsMax Scherzer has dominated since being traded to the Dodgers, and tries to extend his success streak when he pitches at Cincinnati on Saturday in a matchup with playoff implications.
Giants clinch playoff spot, thump Padres 9-1 for 8th in row
Read full article: Giants clinch playoff spot, thump Padres 9-1 for 8th in rowThe surprising San Francisco Giants became the first team to clinch a playoff spot this season, hitting four home runs to beat the San Diego Padres 9-1 on Monday night for their season-high eighth consecutive victory.
LEADING OFF: Angels' dual threat Ohtani starts at Astros
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Angels' dual threat Ohtani starts at AstrosBig league home run leader Shohei Ohtani is unbeaten in his last 13 starts going into this outing for the Los Angeles Angels against the AL West-leading Astros in Houston.
Snell pulled after 7 no-hit innings, Padres beat D-backs 3-0
Read full article: Snell pulled after 7 no-hit innings, Padres beat D-backs 3-0Blake Snell threw seven hitless innings before being pulled for a reliever, and San Diego lost its bid for a combined no-hitter in the eighth inning when Arizonaโs David Peralta dropped a bloop single into shallow left field in the Padres' 3-0 win.
LEADING OFF: Bรกez, Mets barb home fans, anger team president
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Bรกez, Mets barb home fans, anger team presidentJavier Bรกez and his New York Mets teammates get a day to cool off after the derogatory gestures they directed toward frustrated fans at Citi Field angered club management.
LEADING OFF: Padres try new pitch, Reds-Brewers, O's skid
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Padres try new pitch, Reds-Brewers, O's skidOne day after firing pitching coach Larry Rothschild, the slumping San Diego Padres begin a three-game series Tuesday night against the NL West rival Los Angeles Dodgers.
Olympics video: Japan rallies against bullpen to beat US baseball 7-6 in 10 innings
Read full article: Olympics video: Japan rallies against bullpen to beat US baseball 7-6 in 10 inningsYuki Yanagita tied it with an RBI grounder off Scott McGough in the ninth inning, Takuya Kai hit a winning single against Edwin Jackson in the 10th and Japan beat the United States 7-6 Monday night to reach the Olympic semifinals.
Japan rallies against bullpen to beat US 7-6 in 10 innings
Read full article: Japan rallies against bullpen to beat US 7-6 in 10 inningsYuki Yanagita tied it with an RBI grounder off Scott McGough in the ninth inning, Takuya Kai hit a winning single against Edwin Jackson in the 10th and Japan beat the United States 7-6 Monday night to reach the Olympic semifinals.
Darvish fans 11, Padres get 2 big homers to beat Dodgers 6-2
Read full article: Darvish fans 11, Padres get 2 big homers to beat Dodgers 6-2Yu Darvish struck out 11 in six brilliant innings to become the fastest big leaguer to reach 1,500 for his career, Manny Machado and Jake Cronenworth homered and the San Diego Padres beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-2 in the opener of a three-game series between the NL West rivals.
LEADING OFF: Bieber ailing, Braves rookie Davidson excels
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Bieber ailing, Braves rookie Davidson excelsReigning AL Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber wonโt throw for at least two weeks because of a right shoulder strain, an injury that will further test Clevelandโs pitching depth.
Davies strong, Rizzo, Wisdom homer in Cubs' 7-1 win vs Pads
Read full article: Davies strong, Rizzo, Wisdom homer in Cubs' 7-1 win vs PadsZach Davies allowed just one hit in six scoreless innings, Anthony Rizzo homered and drove in four runs, and Patrick Wisdom went deep again for the Chicago Cubs as they defeated the San Diego Padres 7-1.
Baez, Rizzo lead surging Cubs past Padres 6-1
Read full article: Baez, Rizzo lead surging Cubs past Padres 6-1Javier Bรกez lined a two-run homer, Anthony Rizzo had two doubles among three hits and the surging Chicago Cubs beat the San Diego Padres 6-1 on for their third straight win and ninth in 10 games.
Tatis slam, 6 RBIs, Padres beat M's, sweep 9-game homestand
Read full article: Tatis slam, 6 RBIs, Padres beat M's, sweep 9-game homestandFernando Tatis Jr. homered twice, including a 447-foot grand slam, and drove in six runs for the San Diego Padres, who beat the Seattle Mariners 9-2 to sweep a nine-game homestand.
Fuentes, Rockies split doubleheader with virus-short Padres
Read full article: Fuentes, Rockies split doubleheader with virus-short PadresJosh Fuentes capped a big night with a two-out, walk-off single in the eighth inning after earlier hitting a two-run homer and the Colorado Rockies salvaged a doubleheader split by beating the virus-hampered San Diego Padres 3-2.
Like father, like son: Tatรญs hits 2 HRs, Padres beat LA 6-1
Read full article: Like father, like son: Tatรญs hits 2 HRs, Padres beat LA 6-1Fernando Tatรญs Jr. hit two homers at Dodger Stadium on the 22nd anniversary of his father hitting two grand slams in one inning at the same park, and the San Diego Padres earned their third straight victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, 6-1.
Betts makes diving grab as Dodgers beat Padres 2-0
Read full article: Betts makes diving grab as Dodgers beat Padres 2-0Mookie Betts made an outstanding diving catch and Clayton Kershaw starred on the mound and at the plate, helping the Los Angeles Dodgers top the San Diego Padres 2-0 in another compelling thriller between the NL West rivals.
Seager's homer in 12th sends Dodgers to 11-6 win over Padres
Read full article: Seager's homer in 12th sends Dodgers to 11-6 win over PadresCorey Seager hit a tiebreaking, two-run homer on Tim Hillโs first pitch of the 12th inning and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the San Diego Padres 11-6 in a tense, entertaining first matchup this season between NL West rivals who have visions of deep playoff runs.
LEADING OFF: Crowds back on opening day, Cole starts season
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Crowds back on opening day, Cole starts seasonEARLY TESTSThe Washington Nationals will be short-handed due to a positive coronavirus test for the second straight season opener. General manager Mike Rizzo did not reveal who the five players were, and the only certainty as of Wednesday night was that opening day starter Max Scherzer wasn't one of them. The Nationals did not have any players test positive during spring training prior to that. But in a what-are-the-odds moment, all three are set to start on opening day. To be pitching the same day as those guys is pretty cool.โMITTS AND MITTENSNolan Arenado, Kris Bryant and Miguel Cabrera will be wearing gloves on opening day.
LEADING OFF: Crowds back on opening day, Cole starts season
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Crowds back on opening day, Cole starts seasonAll 30 teams are scheduled to be in action, with Gerrit Cole set to throw the first pitch of the season against Toronto at Yankee Stadium. A year after no fans were allowed during the virus-shortened 60-game season, every stadium is open, in varying degrees as teams adhere to coronavirus protocols. But in a what-are-the-odds moment, all three are set to start on opening day. To be pitching the same day as those guys is pretty cool.โAdMITTS AND MITTENSNolan Arenado, Kris Bryant and Miguel Cabrera will be wearing gloves on opening day. Rain is in the forecast along the East Coast, which could affect games at Fenway Park, Yankee Stadium, Citizens Bank Park and Nationals Park.
Amazin' at-bat: Mets' Guillorme draws 22-pitch walk vs Hicks
Read full article: Amazin' at-bat: Mets' Guillorme draws 22-pitch walk vs HicksโI donโt even think Iโve had a 13 pitch at-bat in my career.โHicks was scheduled to pitch one inning. Carlos Martรญnez worked four innings in the start for St. Louis, allowing two runs and five hits. Pittsburgh starter Steven Brault allowed three runs on five hits and a walk in three innings. YANKEES 5, BLUE JAYS 1New York starter Deivi Garcรญa gave up one hit and an unearned run in three innings. Dean Kremer allowed a run on three hits, walked two and struck out four in the start for Baltimore.
Springer, Bauer, Lindor lead list of big names on new teams
Read full article: Springer, Bauer, Lindor lead list of big names on new teamsThe reigning World Series champions already had a pair of Cy Young Award winners in Clayton Kershaw and David Price. Darvish has twice finished runner-up for a Cy Young Award, including last season when he was 8-3 with a 2.01 ERA in 12 starts. Lester is a three-time World Series champion, winning twice with Boston and once with the Cubs. Heโs part of a rotation led by three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer, 2019 World Series MVP Stephen Strasburg and lefty Patrick Corbin. Bradley was a Gold Glove winner in 2018 when the Red Sox won the World Series.
All-Stars, Iowa cornfield, Arenado return spice MLB schedule
Read full article: All-Stars, Iowa cornfield, Arenado return spice MLB scheduleWith a good young rotation and a deep lineup, the Braves are looking for their first World Series title since 1995. While San Diego is much improved, World Series MVP Corey Seager and Los Angeles are well-positioned for a run at another championship. The last time the All-Stars descended on Atlanta, Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter had three hits and two RBIs in the AL's 6-3 victory at Turner Field in 2000. AdTHURSDAY, AUG. 12New York Yankees at Chicago White Sox: Major League Baseball comes to Iowa. SUNDAY, SEPT. 26Houston Astros at Oakland Athletics: The AL West rivals close out their season series with Oakland's home finale.
Indians minus Ramรญrez, Reyes after they break virus protocol
Read full article: Indians minus Ramรญrez, Reyes after they break virus protocolNew York starter Jordan Montgomery gave up two hits in three scoreless innings. Brubaker allowed two hits over two scoreless innings and Chase De Jong followed with two shutout innings. MARLINS 4, METS 4Miami starter Pablo Lopez gave up a hit and a walk over three scoreless innings. German Marquez scattered three hits and a walk over three scoreless innings for Colorado. Kansas City starter Jakob Junis pitched three innings and gave up one hit, a leadoff homer to Trent Grisham.
Coming home: Padres' Musgrove wears No. 44 to honor Peavy
Read full article: Coming home: Padres' Musgrove wears No. 44 to honor Peavy(AP Photo/Ron Schwane, file)When Joe Musgrove reported to spring training to start his sixth big league season, a brown and gold No. 44 San Diego Padres jersey was hanging in his locker. 44 is a nod to Jake Peavy, the fiery right-hander Musgrove grew up cheering for. "The last few days here, it just feels right.โMusgrove was obtained in a trade with rebuilding Pittsburgh on Jan. 19, the third big trade Padres general manager A.J. Musgrove said he was an energetic and emotional player as a kid, which is why he idolized Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner.
Spring training '21: New year, but COVID-19 protocols remain
Read full article: Spring training '21: New year, but COVID-19 protocols remainFILE - In this Feb. 18, 2014, file photo, Atlanta Braves batting helmets sits on the field under a shining sun during a spring training baseball workout in Kissimmee, Fla. Major League Baseball revamped its spring training exhibition schedule because of the pandemic, cutting travel for Florida-based teams in an effort to avoid the novel coronavirus, the league announced Friday, Feb. 12, 2021. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)NEW YORK โ Completing the 2020 season required MLB to rewrite its rule book. The Grapefruit League schedule was reworked to limit travel, and clubs wonโt play exhibitions against local colleges โ usually a spring staple. MLB has claimed billions in losses after playing the 2020 season almost entirely without fans, and free agents were met by a sluggish market this winter. AdSeveral notable players remain available.
AP source: Chicago Cubs, RHP Jake Arrieta agree to reunion
Read full article: AP source: Chicago Cubs, RHP Jake Arrieta agree to reunionPhiladelphia Phillies' Jake Arrieta pitches during the second inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets, Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)CHICAGO โ Jake Arrieta is returning to the Chicago Cubs, agreeing to a $6 million, one-year contract on Friday. The 34-year-old Arrieta won the NL Cy Young Award with Chicago in 2015 and helped the Cubs win the 2016 World Series for their first championship since 1908. He went 68-31 with a 2.73 ERA in 128 starts over five years in his first stint with the team. He tossed a five-hitter in the Cubs' 4-0 win at Pittsburgh in the 2015 NL wild-card game.
Yu kidding? Darvish learned via Twitter of trade to Padres
Read full article: Yu kidding? Darvish learned via Twitter of trade to PadresThe San Diego Padres traded for another big arm on Tuesday night, Dec. 29, acquiring Darvish in a blockbuster deal with the Cubs. The Padres got Darvish, catcher Victor Caratini and cash from the Cubs for right-hander Zach Davies and four young minor leaguers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)SAN DIEGO โ Yu Darvish found out things move fast when San Diego Padres general manager A.J. The Padres also got catcher Victor Caratini as part of the trade for right-hander Zach Davies and four young minor leaguers. โActually, I wanted to throw against the Padres last season just to see how good I was.
Hoyer insists Cubs plan to compete after dealing Darvish
Read full article: Hoyer insists Cubs plan to compete after dealing DarvishHoyer insisted the Chicago Cubs are taking a different approach this time. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)CHICAGO โ Jed Hoyer insists this time won't be like 2011 for the Chicago Cubs. Along the way, Cubs fans endured a painful rebuild that included a 101-loss 2012 season. โWe know that we're coming to the end of this group of players โ a wildly successful, franchise-changing run with this group of players,โ Hoyer said. "We haven't gotten extensions, and as a result, there are contractual realities to how long we control some of these players,โ Hoyer said.
Padres acquire RHP Yu Darvish in blockbuster trade with Cubs
Read full article: Padres acquire RHP Yu Darvish in blockbuster trade with CubsThe San Diego Padres traded for another big arm on Tuesday night, Dec. 29, acquiring Darvish in a blockbuster deal with the Cubs. The Padres got Darvish, catcher Victor Caratini and cash from the Cubs for right-hander Zach Davies and four young minor leaguers. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)San Diego Padres general manager A.J. The aggressive Padres got Yu Darvish in a trade with the Chicago Cubs, adding another ace to their rotation after announcing a deal for Blake Snell earlier in the day. During his time in Texas' front office, Preller scouted Darvish before the Rangers acquired the Japanese right-hander in 2012.
Padres finalize deal acquiring ace Blake Snell from Rays
Read full article: Padres finalize deal acquiring ace Blake Snell from RaysThe San Diego Padres finalized their acquisition of ace left-hander Snell from the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2020, sending four prospects in exchange for the 2018 AL Cy Young Award winner. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)SAN DIEGO โ Blake Snell gave up the ball in Game 6 of the World Series, shaking his head after manager Kevin Cashโs curious pitching change. The San Diego Padres, determined to go all the way, just wanted him that much. He pitched spectacularly into the sixth inning of World Series Game 6 against the Dodgers before Cash pulled him after 73 pitches. โThis acquisition is in line with our overall strategy to build a consistently winning ballclub for the great city of San Diego,โ Padres owner Peter Seidler said.
Freeman among trio of Braves on All-MLB first team
Read full article: Freeman among trio of Braves on All-MLB first teamFreeman easily won the NL MVP award Thursday, Nov. 12, topping off a trying year that saw him become so ill with COVID-19 he prayed please dont take me. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)NEW YORK โ National League MVP Freddie Freeman was one of three Atlanta Braves selected to the All-MLB first team on Wednesday night. San Diego had two players on the top team: shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. and third baseman Manny Machado. AL MVP Josรฉ Abreu of the Chicago White Sox was the first baseman on the second team, which also included Philadelphia catcher J.T. Realmuto, Rays second baseman Brandon Lowe, Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager and Indians third baseman Josรฉ Ramรญrez.
Mookie Betts, Jacob deGrom in the mix for historic NL awards
Read full article: Mookie Betts, Jacob deGrom in the mix for historic NL awards(AP Photo/Eric Gay)Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts could become the second player to win the MVP award in each league, and New York Mets ace Jacob deGrom is in the running for his third consecutive NL Cy Young Award. Betts, Freddie Freeman and Manny Machado are the top finishers for NL MVP in balloting by the Baseball Writersโ Association of America. DeGrom, Trevor Bauer and Yu Darvish are the finalists in the NL Cy Young race. Betts, who won the 2018 AL MVP award with Boston, helped the Dodgers win the World Series last week for the first time since 1988. Frank Robinson is the only player to win the MVP award in both leagues, accomplishing the feat in 1961 with Cincinnati and 1966 for Baltimore.
Pitchers already experiencing both extremes this postseason
Read full article: Pitchers already experiencing both extremes this postseasonChicago White Sox pitcher Matt Foster walks to the dugout after retiring the Oakland Athletics during the fourth inning of Game 3 of an American League wild-card baseball series Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
Pitchers already experiencing both extremes this postseason
Read full article: Pitchers already experiencing both extremes this postseasonIt's been a feast-or-famine postseason on the pitcher's mound so far. Then there were teams like the Indians and Chicago White Sox, whose seasons are over in large part because of control problems that popped up at the worst possible time. The Atlanta-Cincinnati contest was the first postseason game to be scoreless after 11 innings. San Diego was only in that position because the Cardinals couldn't hold off the Padres' sluggers Thursday. The White Sox ended up using nine pitchers and Oakland used eight.
Cooper homers, Sรกnchez dominates, Marlins knock out Cubs 2-0
Read full article: Cooper homers, Sรกnchez dominates, Marlins knock out Cubs 2-0Miami Marlins relief pitcher Brandon Kintzler, left, and catcher Chad Wallach (17) celebrate a 2-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs in Game 2 of a National League wild-card baseball series Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)CHICAGO โ The Miami Marlins didn't need a hand from a fan at Wrigley Field to knock the Chicago Cubs out of the playoffs this time. Led by manager Don Mattingly and CEO Derek Jeter, the Marlins remained unbeaten in all seven postseason series they have played following triumphs in the 1997 and 2003 World Series. The Cubs havenโt advanced since the 2017 team lost in the NLCS. You can make your first half disappear.โBRAVE WORLDThe Marlins lost six of 10 against the Braves, including a 29-9 romp at Atlanta on Sept. 9.
LEADING OFF: Cubs' Darvish tries to save season vs Marlins
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Cubs' Darvish tries to save season vs MarlinsA look at what's happening around the majors Friday:___TRY AGAINThe Cubs and Marlins resume their series a day after poor weather caused a postponement at Wrigley Field. He wasnโt in the starting lineup for Thursdayโs postponed game, but manager Don Mattingly had not ruled out using him. The ace right-hander was a steady presence for the Cubs throughout the pandemic-shortened season, joining the NL Cy Young Award conversation. The Marlins will counter with 22-year-old Sixto Sรกnchez, who debuted Aug. 22 and posted a 3.46 ERA in seven starts. โThatโs the thing.โThe Braves wonโt play again until Tuesday, when theyโll open an NL Division Series against either the Cubs or Marlins in Houston.
Game 2 of Marlins-Cubs wild-card series postponed
Read full article: Game 2 of Marlins-Cubs wild-card series postponedCHICAGO โ The Chicago Cubs are counting on Yu Darvish to help them avoid a playoff sweep by the Miami Marlins. Game 2 of the NL wild-card series between the Cubs and Marlins was postponed Thursday because there was rain in the forecast. But as much as anything, I think respect for the organization โ of where we're going and how we're doing it and how we're trying to get there and what we're building. I think, hopefully, people are seeing that.โThe Marlins will have one of baseball's top prospects on the mound for Game 2. โI felt like his stuff is dynamic enough that he can dominate a game if he's on,โ Mattingly said.
LEADING OFF: Marlins' Marte hopes to play with broken hand
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Marlins' Marte hopes to play with broken handThe Marlins are hoping center fielder Starling Marte can play through a broken bone in his left hand as they try to eliminate the Cubs at Wrigley Field. To do it, the Braves might need to make a whole lot more contact at the plate than they did Wednesday while beating the Reds 1-0 in 13 innings โ the first postseason game to be scoreless after 11. Theyโll be up against Luis Castillo (4-6, 3.21), who makes his first career playoff start for the Reds. He was out for a second straight playoff game because of a sprained right foot that kept him out of the final three games of the regular season. Wainwright closed out the Padres at Petco Park in their previous postseason appearance in 2006.
Dickerson homers as Marlins beat Cubs 5-1 in playoff opener
Read full article: Dickerson homers as Marlins beat Cubs 5-1 in playoff opener(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)CHICAGO โ The Miami Marlins just kept fighting. Corey Dickerson hit a three-run homer off a fading Hendricks in the seventh inning, and Miami beat the Chicago Cubs 5-1 on Wednesday in Game 1 of their NL wild-card series. The Marlins, who rallied past the Cubs in a memorable NLCS that year, have never lost a playoff series. Yu Darvish starts for the Central champion Cubs, and rookie right-hander Sixto Sรกnchez get the ball for upstart Miami. โItโs going to be great.โDarvish is making his first playoff appearance since signing with Chicago before the 2018 season.
LeMahieu, Soto batting champs in shortest season in century
Read full article: LeMahieu, Soto batting champs in shortest season in centuryThe .245 big league batting average was the the lowest since .237 in 1968 and down from .252 last year. LeMahieu hit .364 for the New York Yankees, the highest for an AL batting champion since Minnesotaโs Joe Mauer hit .365 in 2009 and well ahead of 2019 AL batting champion Tim Anderson of the Chicago White Sox, who finished second at .322. LeMahieu won the NL batting title with Colorado in 2016. โYou've got to just roll with it.โSoto batted .351 for Washington and at 21 years, 11 months, 2 days became the youngest NL batting champion. Bieber and the Chicago Cubsโ Yu Darvish tied for the major league lead in wins with eight.
LEADING OFF: 2 NL playoff spots still open with 2 days left
Read full article: LEADING OFF: 2 NL playoff spots still open with 2 days left(AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)A look at what's happening around the majors on Saturday:PLAYOFF CHASEAfter manager Don Mattinglyโs Marlins and the Cincinnati Reds clinched postseason spots, two NL playoff slots are still open with two days left in the regular season. They are hoping to get back on track heading into their playoff appearance since 2008, but the health of Jimรฉnez is a concern. Acquired last month in a big trade with Cleveland, Clevinger left his start against the Angels on Wednesday after just one inning. โWe have not ruled out anything for next week and the first round of the playoffs,โ Padres general manager A.J. If Clevinger canโt pitch the playoff opener, Dinelson Lamet could start.
LEADING OFF: NL playoff race wide open, AL nearly locked in
Read full article: LEADING OFF: NL playoff race wide open, AL nearly locked inThe Marlins, Phillies, Cardinals, Reds, Brewers and Giants are the top teams still in contention -- and theyโre packed tightly with slots available for one team from the NL East, another from the NL Central and then two wild cards. The Mets (26-31) and Rockies (25-31) are mathematically eligible but need to win out just to have a shot. AL-MOST OVEROnly one playoff spot remains open in the AL, and Michael Brantley and the Astros are on the verge of clinching it. The Twins are trying to seal the AL Central. The Chisox have lost five in a row, dropping them out of the AL Central lead and one game behind Minnesota.
Kuhl goes 7 sharp innings as Pirates blank slumping Cubs 7-0
Read full article: Kuhl goes 7 sharp innings as Pirates blank slumping Cubs 7-0Pittsburgh Pirates outfielders, from left, Jared Oliva, Bryan Reynolds and Gregory Polanco (25) celebrate the final out of a 7-0 win over the Chicago Cubs in a baseball game in Pittsburgh, Thursday, Sept. 24, 2020. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)PITTSBURGH โ Chad Kuhl pitched seven sharp innings and Colin Moran and Bryan Reynolds had home runs among their three hits each Thursday in the Pittsburgh Piratesโ 7-0 victory over the slumping Chicago Cubs. The Cubs, who clinched a postseason berth Tuesday, are stumbling toward the playoffs with five losses in six games. Geoff Hartlieb and Blake Cederlind completed the shutout in which the Piratesโ staff was backed by four home runs. Mills lasted 3 2/3 innings and gave up four runs and eight hits with one walk and two strikeouts.
Twins clinch 2nd straight playoff spot, beat Mills, Cubs 8-1
Read full article: Twins clinch 2nd straight playoff spot, beat Mills, Cubs 8-1Minnesota Twins' Jake Cave (60) runs to score on a single hit by Eddie Rosario against the Chicago Cubs during the sixth inning of a baseball game, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)CHICAGO โ Eddie Rosario, Miguel Sanรณ and Josh Donaldson homered as the Minnesota Twins clinched a second straight postseason berth with an 8-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday night. The Twins, who won the division last year, will make back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time since 2009-10. After Mills struck out the first two batters of the game, Rosario homered on the first pitch he saw for a 1-0 lead. In the sixth, Rosario hit an RBI single for a 2-1 lead.
LEADING OFF: Verlander set for TJ, Bumgarner seeks 1st win
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Verlander set for TJ, Bumgarner seeks 1st winThe reigning AL Cy Young Award winner says he needs Tommy John surgery, likely putting him out of action through all of next year. โI tried as hard as I could to come back and play this season,โ Verlander said. โUnfortunately, my body just didnโt cooperate.โThe Astros hold the eighth and final spot in the AL playoff race. Verlander went 21-6 with a 2.58 ERA last year, striking out a career-high 300 and throwing his third no-hitter. His top competitors are likely two-time defending winner Jacob deGrom of the Mets, Atlantaโs Max Fried and Cincinnatiโs Trevor Bauer.
LEADING OFF: Blue Jays-Yanks, Padres go for 9th straight
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Blue Jays-Yanks, Padres go for 9th straightSan Diego Padres' Jurickson Profar, right, reacts after scoring on a fielder's choice in the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, in San Diego. Prized rookie Deivi Garcรญa (1-1, 3.06 ERA) pitches for the Yankees, who have won five straight following a 5-16 slide. New York expects to get third baseman Gio Urshela and right-hander Jonathan Loaisiga back from the injured list. WILD WESTThe surging San Diego Padres go for their ninth straight victory and try to close within a half-game of the West-leading Dodgers when the NL's top two teams square off again at Petco Park. Lamb homered and doubled in his Athletics debut Monday, a 9-0 victory at Seattle that gave his new team a doubleheader split.
LEADING OFF: Blue Jays-Yanks, Darvish faces skidding Indians
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Blue Jays-Yanks, Darvish faces skidding IndiansPrized rookie Deivi Garcรญa (1-1, 3.06 ERA) pitches for the Yankees, who have won five straight following a 5-16 slide. New York expects to get third baseman Gio Urshela and right-hander Jonathan Loaisiga back from the injured list. Sportico reported Cohen will own 95% of the team, with the rest staying with the Wilpon and Katz families. Former major league star Alex Rodriguez and fiancee Jennifer Lopez also tried to buy the team but dropped out of the bidding last month. Cohen also entered negotiations to buy the Mets last year, but the deal fell apart in February.
Cubs' Mills no-hits Brewers for baseball's 2nd no-hitter
Read full article: Cubs' Mills no-hits Brewers for baseball's 2nd no-hitterChicago Cubs starting pitcher Alec Mills reacts after throwing a no hitter at a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)MILWAUKEE โ Alec Mills cruised through baseball's second no-hitter this season, shutting down the Milwaukee Brewers for the Chicago Cubs' 16th no-hitter in a 12-0 victory Sunday. Baez completed the play, and the Cubs swarmed around Mills, tearing off his cap and pulling at the smiling right-hander's uniform. His five strikeouts are the fewest in a Cubs no-hitter since Ken Holtzman in 1969. Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano has thrown the only no-hitter at Miller Park, against the Houston Astros on Sept. 14, 2008.
LEADING OFF: Darvish vs. Bauer; Yanks look to Garcia
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Darvish vs. Bauer; Yanks look to GarciaA look at what's happening around the majors Wednesday:___PAIR OF ACESYu Darvish and Trevor Bauer pitch at Wrigley Field in a matchup of ace right-handers headed in different directions. Darvish, one of the front-runners for the NL Cy Young Award, is going for his eighth straight victory for the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs. BRONX BLUESThe Yankees turn to rookie right-hander Deivi Garcia (0-1, 3.38) in the finale of a critical series against the Blue Jays. We all know were capable of more, significantly more, both individually and collectively.Right-hander Tanner Roark (2-1, 5.74) is set to pitch for second-place Toronto. With so many franchises struggling financially after the 2020 minor league season was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, contraction now seems likely.
LEADING OFF: A's back in action after 4 virus postponements
Read full article: LEADING OFF: A's back in action after 4 virus postponementsChicago Cubs' Yu Darvish throws in the first inning during a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds in Cincinnati, Saturday, Aug. 29, 2020. Oakland returns to the Coliseum as Jess Luzardo (2-1, 3.74 ERA) faces Fernando Tatis Jr. and the Padres. General manager David Forst said Mengden is asymptomatic and was placed on the 10-day injured list. CHECK HIMThe Astros will see how second Jose Altuves knee is feeling, a day after he made an early exit. Asked if his tribute is going to become a regular thing for the rest of the season, the typically low-key Reynolds provided a typically low-key response.
Darvish has no-hitter through 6 innings for Cubs vs Brewers
Read full article: Darvish has no-hitter through 6 innings for Cubs vs BrewersChicago Cubs starting pitcher Yu Darvish delivers during the first inning of a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jeff Haynes)CHICAGO Yu Darvish of the Chicago Cubs is pitching a no-hitter through six innings against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field. Darvish has struck out nine, allowed three baserunners and thrown 92 pitches in his third straight dominant start. Darvish signed a $126 million, six-year contract with the Cubs as a free agent in February 2018, but has been hampered by elbow and triceps injuries since coming to Chicago. Darvish has twice come within one out of a no-hitter, both times with the Texas Rangers.
Darvish takes no-hitter into 7th, Cubs beat Brewers 4-2
Read full article: Darvish takes no-hitter into 7th, Cubs beat Brewers 4-2Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Yu Darvish delivers during the first inning of a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jeff Haynes)CHICAGO Yu Darvish took a no-hitter into the seventh inning in his third straight dominant start, and the major league-leading Chicago Cubs defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2 on Thursday night. But after a rocky first outing this season, against the Brewers on July 25, Darvish has been in a groove. BREWERS MOVESThe Brewers optioned LHP Eric Lauer to their alternate training site in Appleton, Wisconsin. UP NEXTBrewers: RHP Brandon Woodruff (1-1, 2.53 ERA) faces Cubs RHP Tyler Chatwood (2-1, 5.40) on Friday night.
Cubs beat Indians 7-2 to match their best start since 1970
Read full article: Cubs beat Indians 7-2 to match their best start since 1970Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks delivers in the first inning in a baseball game against the Cleveland Indians, Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2020, in Cleveland. The Cubs are 12-3 in their first season under manager David Ross, matching the club's start after 15 games in 1970. Hendricks hadn't faced the Indians since Nov. 2, 2016, when he started the dramatic finale as the Cubs beat the Indians in extra innings to clinch their first Series title since 1908. Indians: C Roberto Perez (shoulder) has been running and throwing at the team's alternate site in Lake County. Indians: Following their second off day in four days, Cleveland opens a three-game series in Detroit on Friday.
Twins rout Brewers, 12-2, behind Kenta Maeda
Read full article: Twins rout Brewers, 12-2, behind Kenta MaedaMinnesota Twins' Eddie Rosario, Byron Buxton and Jake Cave celebrate after a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2020, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)MILWAUKEE Byron Buxton hit two solo home runs and Miguel San added another as the Minnesota Twins jumped to an early lead and routed the Milwaukee Brewers 12-2 on Wednesday night. The victory gave the AL Central-leading Twins a 2-1 series win over the Brewers, who dropped to 2-6 at home. Minnesota starter Kenta Maeda (3-0), in his first season with the Twins after being acquired from the Dodgers in February, retired the first 11 batters he faced. Brewers: In Chicago facing Cubs RHP Yu Darvish (2-1, 2.12 ERA), who has thrown 16 strikeouts in 17 innings.