INSIDER
Preston Mattingly, son of Don Mattingly, promoted to Philadelphia Phillies general manager
Read full article: Preston Mattingly, son of Don Mattingly, promoted to Philadelphia Phillies general managerPreston Mattingly, a son of former star first baseman and manager Don Mattingly, has been promoted to general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies under president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski.
Blue Jays channel 'Ted Lasso' in routing Dodgers 8-1 to take 2 of 3 from NL West leaders
Read full article: Blue Jays channel 'Ted Lasso' in routing Dodgers 8-1 to take 2 of 3 from NL West leadersWhit Merrifield hit a three-run homer, Danny Jansen went deep and the Toronto Blue Jays routed the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-1.
Royals fire manager Mike Matheny after 65-97 end to season
Read full article: Royals fire manager Mike Matheny after 65-97 end to seasonThe Kansas City Royals fired manager Mike Matheny and pitching coach Cal Eldred on Wednesday night, shortly after the struggling franchise finished the season 65-97 with a listless 9-2 loss to the Cleveland Guardians.
Mattingly wins his last game as Marlins manager, tops Braves
Read full article: Mattingly wins his last game as Marlins manager, tops BravesDon Mattingly went out as a winner in his final game as Miami’s manager when rookie Peyton Burdick homered and drove in four runs to lead the Marlins over the NL East champion Atlanta Braves 12-9.
Brewers blow lead, chance to tie Phils for wild-card spot
Read full article: Brewers blow lead, chance to tie Phils for wild-card spotDevin Williams blew a ninth-inning lead and the Milwaukee Brewers squandered a great opportunity to pull even in the race for the final National League playoff spot, losing 4-3 to the Miami Marlins.
Freeman, Dodgers edge Marlins 3-2 in 10 innings
Read full article: Freeman, Dodgers edge Marlins 3-2 in 10 inningsFreddie Freeman drove in the go-ahead run with a grounder in the top of the 10th inning, Chris Martin escaped a bases-loaded jam in the bottom half and the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Miami Marlins 3-2.
Ohtani dominant on mound, hits go-ahead single for Angels
Read full article: Ohtani dominant on mound, hits go-ahead single for AngelsShohei Ohtani allowed one unearned run in seven dominant innings and had the go-ahead hit in the Los Angeles Angels’ 5-2 victory over the Miami Marlins on Wednesday night.
Marlins run win streak to 5 with 5-1 win over Astros
Read full article: Marlins run win streak to 5 with 5-1 win over AstrosThe Miami Marlins got a solid start from rookie Braxton Garrett and Jon Berti drove in two runs to help them extend their winning streak to five games with a 5-1 victory over the Houston Astros.
LEADING OFF: Angels skid goes on sans Maddon, Correa ready
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Angels skid goes on sans Maddon, Correa readyFree falling toward a dreadful bit of team history, the Angels fired manager Joe Maddon on Tuesday and appointed third base coach Phil Nevin to the role on an interim basis.
Marlins rookie Sánchez pulled by Mattingly after not running
Read full article: Marlins rookie Sánchez pulled by Mattingly after not runningMiami Marlins rookie Jesús Sánchez was immediately removed from the game by manager Don Mattingly after failing to run out a flyball in the third inning against the New York Mets.
Rays clinch 2nd straight AL East title, beat Marlins 7-3
Read full article: Rays clinch 2nd straight AL East title, beat Marlins 7-3The Tampa Bay Rays clinched their second straight AL East title, with Mike Zunino hitting a go-ahead homer and Brandon Lowe later adding a pair of RBI doubles to beat the Miami Marlins 7-3.
Marlins tie team mark with 11-run inning; Cubs 9th L in row
Read full article: Marlins tie team mark with 11-run inning; Cubs 9th L in rowBryan De La Cruz hit a grand slam and Alex Jackson added a three-run homer as the Miami Marlins tied a team record by scoring 11 times in the second inning during a 14-10 win over the Chicago Cubs.
LEADING OFF: Betts has ailing hip, Mattingly nears return
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Betts has ailing hip, Mattingly nears returnLos Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts might be making a return to the injured list after he was scratched from the lineup on Tuesday night on Philadelphia with a sore right hip.
Fenway Park back to full capacity; Red Sox beat Marlins 3-1
Read full article: Fenway Park back to full capacity; Red Sox beat Marlins 3-1Playing their first game in a rejuvenated Fenway Park since the state dropped limits on crowds during the coronavirus pandemic, Nathan Eovaldi went 5 1/3 scoreless innings and the Boston Red Sox beat the Miami Marlins 3-1.
Rookie Lee finally makes contact, Mets beat Marlins in 12th
Read full article: Rookie Lee finally makes contact, Mets beat Marlins in 12thRookie Khalil Lee hit a tiebreaking RBI double in the 12th inning for his first major league hit after strikeouts in his first eight at-bats and the New York Mets beat the Miami Marlins 6-5.
LEADING OFF: Yanks' outbreak, Miley chases Vander Meer
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Yanks' outbreak, Miley chases Vander MeerThe virus-stricken Yankees are set to open a series in Baltimore a day after revealing shortstop Gleyber Torres tested positive for the coronavirus despite being fully vaccinated and having previously had COVID-19.
5-inning games, 2-out innings? Odd MLB spring look on deck
Read full article: 5-inning games, 2-out innings? Odd MLB spring look on deckA worker cleans the stadium seats as San Francisco Giants players train during the team's spring training baseball workout in Scottsdale, Ariz., Friday, Feb. 26, 2021. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)Colorado Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon figures players can find plenty to do with any extra time they could get at the end of days if spring training games don't go nine innings. Even after that, until the end of spring training, games can be scheduled for only seven innings. Cincinnati Reds manager David Bell said he had already been in touch with Cleveland's Terry Francona by midweek about their spring training opener Sunday. AdJESSE'S TEAMVeteran right-hander Jesse Chavez is re-signing with the Los Angeles Angels on a minor league deal, and will join them in spring training after clearing intake protocols.
New Marlins GM Ng eager to finally see her team in action
Read full article: New Marlins GM Ng eager to finally see her team in action(AP Photo/John Raoux, File)MIAMI – Three months into the job, Kim Ng will finally get to see her team. Miami Marlins pitchers and catchers hold their first workout Thursday at the team's spring training complex in Jupiter, Florida. And Ng, hired in November as the first female general manager in Major League Baseball, will be watching. She made offseason moves to improve the team as she was still learning about it. Young pitching is the Marlins' strength, both at the major league level and in the minors.
Kevin Cash, Don Mattingly win Manager of the Year awards
Read full article: Kevin Cash, Don Mattingly win Manager of the Year awardsFILE - In this July 24, 2020, file photo, Miami Marlins manager Don Mattingly, left, gives an elbow-bump to Philadelphia Phillies manager Joe Girardi, right, prior to a baseball game in Philadelphia. Mattingly won the NL Manager of the Year award on Tuesday night, Nov. 10. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola, File)Tampa Bay’s Kevin Cash won the AL Manager of the Year award on Tuesday night, and Miami’s Don Mattingly took home the NL honor. Tingler and Ross led their teams to the playoffs in their first seasons as a big league manager. The Tampa, Florida, native and Florida State alum was hired as Tampa Bay manager the day before his 37th birthday.
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 Writers’ 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.
LEADING OFF: Rays thwart Yankees, seek revenge vs Astros
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Rays thwart Yankees, seek revenge vs AstrosTampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow celebrates after Game 5 of the baseball team's AL Division Series against the New York Yankees, Friday, Oct. 9, 2020, in San Diego. Tampa Bay won 2-1 to advance to the AL Championship Series. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)A look at what's happening around the majors Saturday:___REVENGE RAYSThe Tampa Bay Rays have more revenge in mind heading to the AL Championship Series. FINAL PREPARATIONSBaseball's postseason gets a full day off from games before the AL Championship Series opens Sunday. Tickets are already sold out for the opener of the neutral-site NL Championship Series between the Braves and Dodgers, although plenty are available on the secondary market.
Wright, d'Arnaud lead Braves to sweep Marlins, reach NLCS
Read full article: Wright, d'Arnaud lead Braves to sweep Marlins, reach NLCSAtlanta Braves players celebrate after defeating the Miami Marlins in Game 3 of a baseball National League Division Series, Thursday, Oct. 8, 2020, in Houston. The Braves are 5-0 with a 0.92 ERA in the postseason, allowing five runs in 49 innings. They’re the second team in history to throw four shutouts in the first five playoff games, joining the 1905 New York Giants. D’Arnaud knocked a double off the bullpen in right-center to send two home and extend the lead to 3-0. The Marlins had a chance to cut into the lead in the bottom of the inning when they loaded the bases with two outs.
No days off puts stress on pitchers in Division Series, LCS
Read full article: No days off puts stress on pitchers in Division Series, LCS(AP Photo/David Dermer)NEW YORK – Postseason games come at an unprecedented pace starting Monday in this year of the pandemic. Teams could play the Division Series over five straight days, take a single day off and then contest the League Championship Series on seven consecutive days. The last to pitch for seven straight days was San Francisco’s Steve Kline from July 31 to Aug. 6, 2007. The League Championship Series has had a 2-3-2 format since 1985, with days off between Games 2 and 3, then another between Games 5 and 6. To start twice in the Division Series, Game 1 pitchers would have to come back on three days' rest.
No days off puts stress on pitchers in Division Series, LCS
Read full article: No days off puts stress on pitchers in Division Series, LCSNEW YORK – Postseason games come at an unprecedented pace starting Monday in this year of the pandemic. Teams could play the Division Series over five straight days, take a single day off and then contest the League Championship Series on seven consecutive days. The last to pitch for seven straight days was San Francisco’s Steve Kline from July 31 to Aug. 6, 2007. The League Championship Series has had a 2-3-2 format since 1985, with days off between Games 2 and 3, then another between Games 5 and 6. To start twice in the Division Series, Game 1 pitchers would have to come back on three days' rest.
'Bottom-feeding' Marlins are making a splash in playoffs
Read full article: 'Bottom-feeding' Marlins are making a splash in playoffsMembers of the Miami Marlins celebrate after defeating the Chicago Cubs in Game 2 of a National League wild-card baseball series Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, in Chicago. The Marlins won the series 2-0 to advance to the division series. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)MIAMI – Their T-shirts say Bottom Feeders, even though the Miami Marlins are showing they’re a different kind of fish in 2020 — the sort that rises to make a splash. After holding the Cubs to one run and nine hits in two games, the Marlins posed for a team photo in the Wrigley Field infield. They are young and inexperienced, but it's just baseball.”And the Marlins are getting good at it.
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 postseasonThen 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. The Chicago White Sox know all about that problem. The White Sox ended up using nine pitchers and Oakland used eight. The A's won 6-4, helped along the way when Matt Foster walked in two Oakland runs in the fourth.
Cooper homers, Sánchez dominates, Marlins knock out Cubs 2-0
Read full article: Cooper homers, Sánchez 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 – 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 haven’t advanced since the 2017 team lost in the NLCS. You can make your first half disappear.”BRAVE 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 wasn’t in the starting lineup for Thursday’s 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 Sánchez, who debuted Aug. 22 and posted a 3.46 ERA in seven starts. “That’s the thing.”The Braves won’t play again until Tuesday, when they’ll 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 – 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 — 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.”The Marlins will have one of baseball's top prospects on the mound for Game 2. “I felt like his stuff is dynamic enough that he can dominate a game if he's on,” 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 — the first postseason game to be scoreless after 11. They’ll 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 openerCorey 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. This year's Marlins weren't supposed to make the playoffs, not after losing 105 games in 2019 and dealing with a coronavirus outbreak early this season. Yu Darvish starts for the Central champion Cubs, and rookie right-hander Sixto Sánchez get the ball for upstart Miami. “It’s going to be great.”Darvish is making his first playoff appearance since signing with Chicago before the 2018 season.
LEADING OFF: Wild, 8-game day opens with Bauer vs Fried
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Wild, 8-game day opens with Bauer vs Fried(AP Photo/Aaron Doster)A look at what's happening around the majors Wednesday:___CRAZY EIGHTHow’s this for wild: MLB is set to stage eight postseason games on the same day for the first time. National League clubs will open their best-of-three wild-card series, while four American League teams are already facing elimination after starting Tuesday. With the expansion of the first round from a pair of wild-card games to eight best-of-three series, there are a maximum 65 possible postseason games this year. In the 1960s, there were 66 postseason games in the entire decade, with league championship series starting in 1969. Dallas Keuchel (6-2, 1.99 ERA) starts Game 2 following a successful first season with Chicago.
Pandemic playoffs: Brewers, Astros in despite losing records
Read full article: Pandemic playoffs: Brewers, Astros in despite losing recordsMembers of the St. Louis Cardinals celebrate after defeating the Milwaukee Brewers in a baseball game to earn a playoff birth Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, in St. Louis. That’s when the Brewers, at 29-31, open their series against Los Angeles ace Walker Buehler at Dodger Stadium. In a win-and-you’re-in game, St. Louis clinched by beating Milwaukee 5-2. That’s how you see it,” Brewers manager Craig Counsell said. St. Louis played a total of 58 games — it was prepared for a doubleheader in Detroit on Monday if needed to settle the playoff picture.
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 Mattingly’s 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 Jiménez 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. “We have not ruled out anything for next week and the first round of the playoffs,” Padres general manager A.J. If Clevinger can’t pitch the playoff opener, Dinelson Lamet could start.
Marlins clinch 1st playoff berth since 2003, beat Yanks 4-3
Read full article: Marlins clinch 1st playoff berth since 2003, beat Yanks 4-3It really goes back to the players believing,” Mattingly said Friday night after a 4-3, 10-inning win over the New York Yankees. “I can’t contain the tears, because it’s a lot of grind, a lot of passion,” shortstop Miguel Rojas said. “I don’t like any time somebody celebrates on our field or if we’re at somebody else’s place and they celebrate on their field,” Yankees star Aaron Judge said. Garrett Cooper, traded to the Marlins by the Yankees after the 2017 season, hit a three-run homer in the first inning off J.A. UP NEXTRHP Deivi García (2-2, 4.88) starts Saturday for the Yankees and LHP Trevor Rogers (1-2, 6.84) for the Marlins.
Mattingly's Marlins could clinch berth at Yankee Stadium
Read full article: Mattingly's Marlins could clinch berth at Yankee StadiumNow Mattingly is enjoying perhaps his best year as a manager, and his surprising Miami Marlins could be playoff-bound for the first time since 2003. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson, File)MIAMI – Don Mattingly returns this weekend to Yankee Stadium, where his best years as a player always ended when the regular season did. But the Marlins still control their own destiny, and will head to New York for a three-game series hoping to clinch their first postseason berth since 2003. In Miami, Mattingly quickly embraced Jeter's rebuilding plan, which required short-term pain while a moribund farm system was fortified. He knows how hard it is.”It's so hard that even at Yankee Stadium, celebrating a playoff berth is something special.
Marte's homer gives Marlins 3-2 win over Blue Jays
Read full article: Marte's homer gives Marlins 3-2 win over Blue JaysMiami Marlins' Starling Marte celebrates as he rounds first base after hitting a home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays, Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2020, in Miami. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)MIAMI Starling Marte celebrated his Miami debut with a tiebreaking homer in the eighth inning, helping the Marlins top the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2 on Tuesday night. He learned of his trade to the Blue Jays during Miamis game at New York on Monday afternoon. TRAINERS ROOMBlue Jays: SS Bo Bichette (sprained right knee) took ground balls, hit in the cage and ran sprints. UP NEXTBlue Jays: LHP Hyun Jin Ryu (2-1, 2.97 ERA) will face the Marlins in the series finale Wednesday.
Marlins shut down Mets 4-0
Read full article: Marlins shut down Mets 4-0(AP Photo/John Minchillo)NEW YORK Miguel Rojas two-run single capped a three-run second inning and four pitchers combined on an eight-hitter to lead the Miami Marlins past the New York Mets 4-0 on Tuesday night in the first game of a doubleheader. It was the Mets first game since a player and a coach tested positive for the coronavirus. The Marlins scored all their runs against Rick Porcello (1-4) with a pair of two-out rallies. The Mets didnt pitch deGrom Tuesday because he didnt get his usual between starts mound work in until Monday. Marlins: Elieser Hernandez (1-0, 2.29 ERA) is looking to win back-to-back starts for the first time as a big leaguer.
LEADING OFF: Marlins home at last, Cole seeks 20th straight
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Marlins home at last, Cole seeks 20th straightFILE - This is a July 4, 2020, file photo showing the Miami Marlins running drills during a baseball workout at Marlins Park in Miami. Marlins Park will have a new look for its 2020 season debut Friday, thanks to cozier dimensions and a switch to artificial turf. Also, there will be a first-place team in the home dugout when the Marlins (8-4) host Atlanta. Miamis season was suspended for a week and the schedule scrambled, including the postponement of eight games at Marlins Park. The Cardinals season has been derailed by the coronavirus.
Mattingly: Marlins sidelined by virus are 'feeling great'
Read full article: Mattingly: Marlins sidelined by virus are 'feeling great'BUFFALO, N.Y. The Miami Marlins sidelined by a coronavirus outbreak are all asymptomatic, and some have applied for reinstatement, manager Don Mattingly said Wednesday. The Marlins placed 17 players on the injured list last week following an outbreak in Philadelphia that forced seven games to be postponed. The infected players returned to Miami to be quarantined, and will likely need rehab workouts before rejoining the team. They feeling great, Mattingly said. They all feel like theyre ready to go.
Safe at home? Blue Jays end nomadic journey in Buffalo
Read full article: Safe at home? Blue Jays end nomadic journey in BuffaloFILE - In this July 24, 2020, file photo, signage at Sahlen Field, home of the Toronto Blue Jays' Triple-A affiliate, in Buffalo, N.Y., is viewed. Pittsburgh offered to let the Blue Jays play at PNC Park when the Pirates were on the road, but Pennsylvania Gov. All of them are designed to help the Blue Jays relax and exhale, however briefly, about 100 miles south of the Rogers Centre. We want to make this feel like home for our guys, Blue Jays vice president Marnie Starkman said. The view will be even better for the Blue Jays, home at last.
Marlins beat Orioles 8-7 to complete stunning 4-game sweep
Read full article: Marlins beat Orioles 8-7 to complete stunning 4-game sweepMiami Marlins' Francisco Cervelli (29) greets Jesus Aguilar, back, after they both scored on a Brian Anderson single during the third inning of a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Marlins' 6-1 start is reminiscent of the 1899 Perfectos
Read full article: Marlins' 6-1 start is reminiscent of the 1899 PerfectosMiami Marlins' Brian Anderson, center, Eddy Alvarez, left, and Jonathan Villar (2) celebrate after a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles, Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020, in Baltimore. I dont know.For the Marlins, this season has been a bit of a blur. In fact, at 6-1 they have the best record in baseball, staging a one-year turnaround not seen since the 1899 St. Louis Perfectos. Were ready to win games, rookie outfielder Monte Harrison said. It should also be noted that the 1899 Perfectos faded after their fast start to a fifth-place finish in the National League.
Marlins beat Orioles 8-7 to complete stunning 4-game sweep
Read full article: Marlins beat Orioles 8-7 to complete stunning 4-game sweep(AP Photo/Nick Wass)BALTIMORE Jonathan Villar hit a first-pitch leadoff homer to spark a robust offensive performance by the Miami Marlins, who beat the Baltimore Orioles 8-7 Thursday night to complete a startling four-game sweep and make Don Mattingly the winningest manager in franchise history. In their first three wins in the series, Miami relied on exceptional pitching in victories by scores of 4-0, 1-0 and 2-1. NO STARCHKintzler found an alternate use for the ironing board in his hotel room while being quarantined in Philadelphia. I needed to figure out how I could simulate a workout, so I got the ironing board out and started taking the tops off the coffee tables," Kintzler revealed Thursday. They were heavy stones, so I would add them to the ironing board and carry it around like a front rack.
LEADING OFF: Hitters slumping, cutdown day, Scherzer's exit
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Hitters slumping, cutdown day, Scherzer's exit(AP Photo/Morry Gash)A look at what's happening around the majors today:OFF BASEStar hitters Christian Yelich, Gary Sanchez, Hunter Pence and others are slumping badly in a season where hitters across the majors are struggling to find base hits. Its the lowest mark ever, below the .237 average posted in 1968, despite the addition of the designated hitter to the NL. The Nationals already are missing World Series MVP Stephen Strasburg, who has a nerve issue in his pitching hand. The Miami Marlins, thats who. St. Louis hasnt played since June 29 -- at 2-3, its next game is scheduled for Friday night at home against the Cubs.
Surprising first-place Marlins stay hot, sweep Orioles
Read full article: Surprising first-place Marlins stay hot, sweep OriolesMiami Marlins starting pitcher Elieser Hernandez throws a pitch to the Baltimore Orioles during the first inning in game one of a baseball double-header, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)BALTIMORE Five pitchers combined on a four-hitter for Don Mattingly's undermanned, gritty and first-place Miami Marlins, who beat the Baltimore Orioles 2-1 Wednesday night for a doubleheader sweep. The sweep kept the Marlins atop the NL East and earned Mattingly his 281st win as Miami's manager, tying Jack McKeon's club record. Not only were both games seven innings apiece, but the Orioles were the home team in the opener and the Marlins served as hosts in the nightcap. Orioles: Wade LeBlanc (1-0) makes his third start of the season after turning in a solid performance against Tampa Bay on Saturday.
Triumphant return for retooled Marlins, who beat Orioles 4-0
Read full article: Triumphant return for retooled Marlins, who beat Orioles 4-0Miami Marlins catcher Francisco Cervelli, center, reacts he engages with teammates in a social distant celebration after defeating the Baltimore Orioles 4-0 during a baseball game, Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)BALTIMORE After enduring one final delay in their effort to return from an eight-day, coronavirus-induced hiatus, the Miami Marlins found enough power and pitching within their vastly overhauled roster to beat the Baltimore Orioles 4-0 Tuesday night. After the final out, the Marlins lined up and did air high-fives in which they didnt make contact with their hands. In this anything goes, wacky baseball season, Miami will be the home team for the final two games of this four-game series. Orioles: Alex Cobb (1-0, 2.89 ERA) gets his third start of the season, followed by Asher Wojciechowski (0-1, 7.20).
LEADING OFF: Marlins back in action, Ohtani on the shelf
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Marlins back in action, Ohtani on the shelfManager Don Mattingly said he has never spoken with some of the players joining the team. With only about eight weeks left in the season, Ohtani might not pitch again until 2021. Ohtani reported discomfort in his arm Sunday after struggling through his second start since having Tommy John surgery in 2018. HAPPY BIRTHDAYKansas City right-hander Brady Singer makes his third major league start on his 24th birthday at Wrigley Field. Luzardo made six appearances as a September callup last season and made two appearances out of the bullpen this season.
LEADING OFF: Marlins back in action, Ohtani on the shelf
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Marlins back in action, Ohtani on the shelfWith only about eight weeks left in the season, Ohtani might not pitch again until 2021. Ohtani reported discomfort in his arm Sunday after struggling through his second start since having Tommy John surgery in 2018. Betts sat out Monday with swelling on a finger on his left hand that manager Dave Roberts described as substantial. HAPPY BIRTHDAYKansas City right-hander Brady Singer makes his third major league start on his 24th birthday at Wrigley Field. Just shy of his 23rd birthday, Luzardo will be the youngest starter for the As since Brett Anderson in 2010.
LEADING OFF: Marlins postponed again amid virus outbreak
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Marlins postponed again amid virus outbreakMiami Marlins' manager Don Mattingly looks out from the dugout during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, July 25, 2020, in Philadelphia. Commissioner Rob Manfred said the soonest the Marlins could resume their schedule is Wednesday, when they are set to play in Baltimore. And we think we can keep people safe and continue to play.The Yankees and Phillies also postponed their game Monday after the Marlins played in Philadelphia over the weekend. Word of multiple positive tests among players on the Marlins and Reds rosters shook many around the game. The right-hander was acquired from Milwaukee in November after going 10-7 with a 3.55 ERA in 31 starts last year.
Fauci says Marlins virus outbreak could endanger MLB season
Read full article: Fauci says Marlins virus outbreak could endanger MLB seasonMiami Marlins' manager Don Mattingly looks out from the dugout during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, July 25, 2020, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)MIAMI The Miami Marlins' coronavirus outbreak could endanger the Major League Baseball season, Dr. Anthony Fauci said Tuesday, although he doesn't believe games needs to stop now. More than a dozen Marlins players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19, stranding the team in Philadelphia and raising anew questions about MLB's attempts to conduct a season. The Marlins outbreak was the talk of baseball, and Washington Nationals manager Dave Martinez choked on his words as he discussed the situation. Whether that was shutting down a part of the season, the whole season, that depends on the circumstances.
Marlins' home opener postponed as they deal with virus
Read full article: Marlins' home opener postponed as they deal with virusMiami Marlins' manager Don Mattingly looks out from the dugout during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, July 25, 2020, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)MIAMI The Miami Marlins' home opener Monday night against Baltimore has been postponed as the Marlins deal with a coronavirus outbreak that stranded them in Philadelphia. The Marlins postponed their flight home Sunday night after their series finale against the Phillies. No reasons were given for the moves, but manager Don Mattingly said those who tested positive would be quarantined in Philadelphia. The Marlins' precarious health raised anew doubts about MLBs ability to finish the season during a pandemic.
Miami Marlins postpone trip home amid fear of virus outbreak
Read full article: Miami Marlins postpone trip home amid fear of virus outbreakMiami Marlins' manager Don Mattingly looks out from the dugout during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, July 25, 2020, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)MIAMI The Miami Marlins scratched right-hander Jose Urena from his scheduled start Sunday in Philadelphia and delayed their postgame trip home amid concerns about a possible coronavirus outbreak within the team. No reason was given for Urena being scratched in the series finale, which Miami won 11-6. Manager Don Mattingly said the Marlins decided to wait until Monday to leave Philadelphia, and they plan to arrive in Miami hours before their home opener against Baltimore. Miami catcher Jorge Alfaro went on the injured list hours before the season opener Friday at Philadelphia.
Marlins catcher Alfaro goes on injured list before opener
Read full article: Marlins catcher Alfaro goes on injured list before openerMiami Marlins' Jorge Alfaro beats a pick off attempt as Atlanta Braves' Freddie Freeman covers first base during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Wednesday, July 22, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Amis)PHILADELPHIA Miami Marlins catcher Jorge Alfaro went on the injured list Friday before their season opener at Philadelphia. The Marlins didn't give a reason but said they expected Alfaro to return this season. The Marlins learned Friday morning Alfaro would be unavailable, manager Don Mattingly said. The Marlins selected the contract of infielder Sean Rodrguez from their alternate training site.
MLB returns ball kids to lines after feedback from clubs
Read full article: MLB returns ball kids to lines after feedback from clubsMajor League Baseball has adjusted its policy for bat-and-ball kids this summer, clearing the way for ball boys and girls to return to the foul lines during games. Baseball had planned to play without bat-and-ball kids this summer because of the coronavirus pandemic. Depending on how teams decided to handle the situation, that might have led to a little more physical activity for corner outfielders running over to get a foul ball off the field. While ball boys and girls are returning to the foul lines, baseball is staying with its plans to keep them out of the dugout area covered in Section 5.2 in baseballs operations manual for the 2020 season. The ball boys and girls are expected to place anything they touch into a club-supplied bucket or bag, which will be disinfected by a clubhouse worker after the game.
As MLB 60-game season draws near, careful optimism prevails
Read full article: As MLB 60-game season draws near, careful optimism prevailsSeveral stars chose not to participate from the start, and rarely a day goes by without a positive COVID-19 test in one camp or another. But here we are, mere days from launching a season that's unique in almost every way. But Hyde remains hopeful that the season will start on time and go the distance. While there's reason for optimism, the stark truth is that COVID-19 is not going away. They still have a chance to play this season, manager Don Mattingly said.
Major league teams try to ramp up the competition in camp
Read full article: Major league teams try to ramp up the competition in campSo teams are trying as best they can to ramp up the competitiveness of summer camps conducted in isolation. Several teams announced upcoming exhibition games, including Houston at Kansas City, Kansas City at St. Louis, and Cleveland against Pittsburgh. Catcher Omar Narvaez and outfielder Avisail Garcia will draft teams for matchups designed to approximate the intensity of regular-season games. St. Louis Cardinals reliever Jordan Hicks opted out of playing this season, citing underlying health concerns. POSTPONEDThe St. Louis Cardinals' Hall of Fame induction ceremony has been postponed because of the virus.
Masking up: Protective coverings not just for MLB dugouts
Read full article: Masking up: Protective coverings not just for MLB dugoutsProtective face coverings won't be out of sight when Major League Baseball resumes in less than two weeks. New York Yankees outfielder Clint Frazier has been experimenting with various masks during intrasquad scrimmages. At 68, Washington has seen fellow Braves coach Eric Young Sr. and Mets hitting coach Chili Davis opt out this season. I trust the protocol that MLB has in place and I also trust Ron Washington even more.This is very safe, he said Sunday, adding, Sixty games? More umpires are expected to start working intrasquad games this week.
Posey out for 2020 as MLB teams deal with churning rosters
Read full article: Posey out for 2020 as MLB teams deal with churning rostersPosey a six-time All-Star and 2012 NL MVP said his family finalized the adoption of identical twin girls this week. Holt has a young family and his wife is pregnant, but he decided to leave them at home while he went to Milwaukee for the next three months. First baseman and team leader Freddie Freeman, premier reliever Will Smith, right-hander Touki Toussaint and infielder Pete Kozma tested positive for coronavirus. Epstein said two coaches tested positive prior to the intake process. A front office member tested positive during the intake.
Safe at home? Off-field behavior will be decisive for MLB
Read full article: Safe at home? Off-field behavior will be decisive for MLBBehavior away from the ballpark will be a big factor in determining whether Major League Baseball's attempt to salvage the 2020 season can succeed. And as Major League Baseball attempts to salvage the 2020 season, behavior away from the ballpark will help determine the outcome. Just like on the field, success will depend on how many players are safe at home. There's also worry regarding what happens when players are away from work and beyond whatever bubble can be created at the ballpark. Theyre in a sense bullet-proof, Marlins manager Don Mattingly said.
MLB releases pandemic-shortened schedule amid testing delays
Read full article: MLB releases pandemic-shortened schedule amid testing delaysThe steady stream of players testing positive and opting out is leading to a growing unease that the full season might not be played. Theres a ton of players out there quoted saying this, but it almost feels like youre waiting on bad news, right? Youre waiting for travel restrictions to be shut down across the nation. Youre waiting for a second wave, where things become unplayable and sports take a backseat. MLB said it addressed delays caused by the holiday weekend, doesnt expect them to continue and commended teams for canceling workouts.
Trout uncertain, All-Star Game off as MLB gets back on field
Read full article: Trout uncertain, All-Star Game off as MLB gets back on fieldAt Citi Field, Mets two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom ran sprints by himself in shallow right field, then grabbed his personal bag of baseballs to throw off a bullpen mound. Major League Baseball said the All-Star Game, scheduled for July 14 at Dodger Stadium, has been canceled. You have to come down to the field one way and back off the field another way, Tigers pitcher Michael Fulmer said. When Rougned Odor pulled a home run into the right field seats in an intrasquad game, there was a smattering of applause. Im kind of expecting weird, expecting things to be different, manager Chris Woodward said later.