The NL Central once again belongs to the Milwaukee Brewers.  The Brew Crew clinched a third divis...

The NL Central once again belongs to the Milwaukee Brewers.The Brew Crew clinched a third division title in four seasons after the Chicago Cubs' 5-3 loss to the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday. Bottles were popped a few hours later after Milwaukee walked off the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 at American Family Field.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
That <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Postseason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Postseason</a> feeling 🍾 Pat Murphy shares some words with his team after the <a href="https://twitter.com/Brewers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Brewers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CLINCHED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CLINCHED</a> the NL Central! <a href="https://t.co/z0qhOxa2dk">pic.twitter.com/z0qhOxa2dk</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1836598875441799447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Legendary Brewers announcer Bob Uecker even joined in the celebration and, in typical Ueck fashion, had everyone on the floor.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pat Murphy: “There is no one who epitomizes being a champion like this man does.” Bob Uecker: “I peed my pants!” <a href="https://t.co/VnNMmmNP2v">pic.twitter.com/VnNMmmNP2v</a>— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1836596571212853713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Brewers also came prepared to accommodate rookie outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14481" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14481">Jackson Chourio</a>, who's not of legal drinking age. The 20-year-old was provided with non-alcoholic champagne for the occasion, stored appropriately inside a baby carriage.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Brewers were ready with non-alcoholic beer and champagne — in a baby carriage — for the 20-year-old Jackson Chourio. <a href="https://t.co/wKEx6D5DLH">pic.twitter.com/wKEx6D5DLH</a>— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1836598842868830637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Milwaukee is the first MLB team to clinch a playoff spot in 2024, although preseason projections gave the club less than a 50% chance of making the postseason.The Brewers also had to deal with the departures of former manager Craig Counsell and ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> and injuries to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8683" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8683">Brandon Woodruff</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3338" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3338">Christian Yelich</a>.Yelich said clinching the division this season was "up there" in terms of personal satisfaction with making the playoffs in 2018 because the Brewers were widely underestimated and overcame so much adversity.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Christian Yelich has been part of all six of the Brewers’ postseason berths in the last seven years, including four division titles. This is up there with 2018 as the most satisfying, he said. Here’s why. <a href="https://t.co/vbMhbftnMU">pic.twitter.com/vbMhbftnMU</a>— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamMcCalvy/status/1836519590572233100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Brewers have now made the postseason six times in the last seven years. The only time they missed the playoffs during that period came in 2022 when the club finished one game out of the final NL wild-card spot with a 86-76 record.It's the first time the Brewers have won back-to-back division titles since 1981-82. Milwaukee now turns its attention to chasing down the Los Angeles Dodgers for the second seed in the NL. Doing so would secure an automatic bye to the NLDS.The Brewers enter Wednesday evening's slate two games behind the Dodgers and need to finish with a better record after losing the season series 4-3.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 18: The Milwaukee Brewers take a team photo after winning the NL Central Division at American Family Field on September 18, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Brewers win NL Central for 3rd time in 4 seasons

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette is thankful to be back on the diamond after being sidelin...

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> is thankful to be back on the diamond after being sidelined for two months with a calf strain. "I'd love to have some results, obviously, but I kind of feel like I'm ending on a high note already," Bichette said, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/blue-jays-spoil-bo-bichettes-return-with-sloppy-loss/">Sportsnet's Ben-Nicholson-Smith</a>. "Really, my ultimate goal here is to have fun playing and enjoy my time."The two-time All-Star made his long-awaited return to Toronto's lineup in Tuesday night's 13-8 loss to the Texas Rangers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bichette, like many of his teammates, has struggled when he has played this season. The career .290 hitter has seen his average dip to .225 while posting an uncharacteristic 71 OPS+ in 81 games. The 26-year-old believes he's found a new perspective in his time away. "Probably the biggest thing is I started listening to my dad again," Bichette said. "Everybody gets (to a point) where they want to know better than their parents. I probably got there. But, really getting back to basics and things he's always told me throughout my life. And just, I guess, being quiet."While Bichette's future in Toronto is undecided - he's slated for free agency after the 2025 season - he remains in good spirits."I mean, I'm living my dream here," he said. "There's nothing in the world I'd rather be doing."

TORONTO, ON - JULY 3: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays looks on from the dugout before playing the Houston Astros in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on July 3, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Blue Jays' Bichette happy to be back after extended IL stint

New York Yankees star Juan Soto is padding his resume at the right time.  His milestone home run ...

New York Yankees star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> is padding his resume at the right time.His milestone home run during last night's 11-2 road win over the Seattle Mariners was his 40th this season, the 200th of his career, and his first-ever at T-Mobile Park - the only stadium where he had yet to go deep.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
200th career HR. 40th HR of the season. Homered in every ballpark. Juan Soto. <a href="https://twitter.com/budweiserusa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@budweiserusa</a> x Yankees <a href="https://t.co/eTAvpodlxB">pic.twitter.com/eTAvpodlxB</a>— New York Yankees (@Yankees) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yankees/status/1836402121228292236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"It's a great feeling for me," Soto said on homering at every park, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1836273917587263912">Gary Phillips of NY Daily News Sports</a>. "It's so many different ballparks, so many different dimensions. I just wanted to get all of them checked in."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He added: "What a best way to go to free agency with all 30 ballparks checking my list."Soto has been nothing short of spectacular in his first season with the Yankees, supporting his career-best power output with 103 RBIs and a gaudy .287/.417/.994 slash line. The 25-year-old phenom is expected to command one of the most lucrative deals in league history this offseason as a free agent. Soto's Yankees are four games up on the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 17: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees hits a double during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on September 17, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

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Yankees' Soto calls homering in every park 'best way to go to free agency' 

Houston Astros' closer Josh Hader wasn't phased by being booed on Tuesday night by the fans who u...

Houston Astros' closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5307" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5307">Josh Hader </a>wasn't phased by being booed on Tuesday night by the fans who used to support him in San Diego."I love this ballpark," he told reporters postgame, including <a href="https://x.com/brianmctaggart/status/1836281106334912975">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a>. "I love pitching here. Obviously, I love the boos. Living rent-free is always a good time."Hader had a tumultuous year-and-a-half tenure in San Diego. The lefty struggled to a career-worst 7.31 ERA in 19 games down the stretch in 2022 after being acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers but rebounded with a dominant All-Star campaign in 2023.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Houston poached Hader from the Padres this offseason, signing him to a record five-year, $95-million contract.Hader, who infamously opposed multi-inning appearances before being paid handsomely by the Astros, cracked a smile when asked if he saw the irony in having recorded four outs on Tuesday night. The 30-year-old earned the win Tuesday, improving his record to 8-7 on the season with a 3.26 ERA and 0.91 WHIP.Houston and San Diego continue their series on Wednesday night.

SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 17: Josh Hader #71 of the Houston Astros pitches during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on September 17, 2024 in San Diego, California.

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Astros' Hader shrugs off being booed in San Diego as 'living rent-free'

Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias hasn't lost faith in his club's ability to win despi...

Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias hasn't lost faith in his club's ability to win despite a prolonged second-half swoon."I think we're going to get right here before the season's over," he said, according to <a href="https://x.com/JakeDRill/status/1836133129234399394">MLB.com's Jake Rill</a>. "I think we're going to make the playoffs. And I think we're going to do really well in the playoffs. ... I think we're going to feel like ourselves again before too late."After winning 17 games in each of April, May, and June, the Orioles have slumped to a 31-35 record since the beginning of July.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>They entered Tuesday still occupying the top AL wild-card spot but have slipped three games behind the first-place New York Yankees in the AL East with less than two weeks to go.Baltimore's vaunted lineup ranks just 15th in MLB by wRC+ (105) since July after leading the league through the end of June. The pitching staff, meanwhile, ranks 21st in ERA (4.53) during that time."I believe in these guys," Elias added. "I believe in the staff. This has been an unpleasant stretch here for the latter part of the summer. We're all wearing it and processing it individually. But we're ready to pull this together."The Orioles will look to get back on track Tuesday night when they open a three-game series against the San Francisco Giants.

BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 24: Executive vice president and general manager Mike Elias of the Baltimore Orioles looks on during batting practice of a baseball game against the against the Houston Astros at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 24, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Orioles GM confident amid struggles: 'I believe in these guys'

Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Michael Kopech isn't closing the door on starting games despite his ...

Los Angeles Dodgers reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8274" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8274">Michael Kopech</a> isn't closing the door on starting games despite his successful transition to the bullpen."It's on my wish list," he said on the "<a href="https://x.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1836109313539977720">Foul Territory</a>" podcast. "It's up to the organization at this point. I think I've found a good fit in the bullpen, but starting - mixing pitches, going deep into games, having a lot of control over the momentum of the game - that's always (been) something I've really enjoyed doing."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Kopech, once expected to be the future ace of the Chicago White Sox, pitched almost exclusively as a starter the last two seasons before injuries and ineffectiveness prompted a transition to the bullpen in 2024.The 28-year-old posted rather pedestrian numbers with Chicago but has dominated to the tune of a 0.95 ERA and 0.74 WHIP in 19 relief appearances since being acquired by the Los Angeles Dodgers."If (starting) is not in the cards, it's not in the cards," Kopech added. "I just want to compete and help the team win." Kopech will have a chance to do that with the Dodgers, whose 89-61 record has them well-position for a 12th straight postseason birth.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 8: Michael Kopech #45 of the Los Angeles Dodgers enters the game to pitch against the Cleveland Guardians at Dodger Stadium on September 8, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Dodgers' Kopech: Returning to rotation is 'on my wish list'

Grimace has officially been immortalized at Citi Field.   The New York Mets unveiled a new purple...

Grimace has officially been immortalized at Citi Field. The New York Mets unveiled a new purple seat at their ballpark on Monday to honor the beloved McDonald's mascot, who's become something of a good luck charm for them this season.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It’s here and it’s perfect! 🟣 We’ve installed a commemorative purple seat to recognize Grimace in section 302, row 6, seat 12. <a href="https://t.co/CquOml8UMC">pic.twitter.com/CquOml8UMC</a>— New York Mets (@Mets) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mets/status/1835797923596054606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The seat's location - No. 12 in the sixth row of section 302 - isn't without meaning. Grimace famously threw out the first pitch on June 12 at Citi Field, which coincided with the beginning of a seven-game winning streak.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Monday's unveiling is part of the Mets' fan appreciation night, at which Grimace is expected to appear.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Mets have announced that they've installed a commemorative seat at Citi Field for Grimace in Section 302 as part of their Fan Appreciation celebration Grimace will be in Queens at the ballpark tonight <a href="https://t.co/te4TmvKBw0">pic.twitter.com/te4TmvKBw0</a>— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) <a href="https://twitter.com/SNY_Mets/status/1835728460221964381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Mets have rebounded from a 29-37 start to the season and are tied for the final NL wild-card spot with an 81-68 record.New York is set to kick off a three-game series against the Washington Nationals on Monday.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 26: Grimace Celebrates Birthday at The Empire State Building on June 26, 2024 in New York City.

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Mets honor Grimace with purple seat at Citi Field

The Minnesota Twins claimed pitcher Cole Irvin off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles, the team a...

The Minnesota Twins claimed pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9859" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9859">Cole Irvin</a> off waivers from the Baltimore Orioles, the team announced Monday.Minnesota designated right-hander Randy Dobnak for assignment in a corresponding move.The Orioles designed Irvin for assignment Sunday after he posted a 4.86 ERA and 1.41 WHIP across 25 games (16 starts) this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Irvin won't be eligible for the Twins' postseason roster if the club secures a playoff spot. Players must be on a team's 40-man roster or 60-day injured list before the Aug. 31 eligibility deadline.The 30-year-old lefty should nonetheless provide the Twins with some much-needed pitching depth over the next two weeks. Minnesota is currently missing starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12305" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12305">Joe Ryan</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8243" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8243">Chris Paddack</a>, as well as several bullpen arms.Irvin owns a career 4.49 ERA across his six MLB seasons.

BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 02: Cole Irvin #19 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the ninth inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 2, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Twins claim Irvin off waivers from Orioles

Even in retirement, Buster Posey is making his presence felt.  The longtime San Francisco Giants ...

Even in retirement, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1259">Buster Posey</a> is making his presence felt.The longtime San Francisco Giants catcher worked personally with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5380" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5380">Matt Chapman</a> on the six-year, $151-million contract extension he signed Sept. 5, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5770168/2024/09/15/sf-giants-matt-chapman-buster-posey-negotiations/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=mlbtw&amp;source=mlbtw">The Athletic's Andrew Baggarly</a>.Posey and the rest of the Giants' executive board grew frustrated with the lack of progress between president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and Chapman's agent, Scott Boras, Baggarly adds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Posey reportedly hammered out the contract's basic structure with Chapman, which included a full no-trade clause that Zaidi had not included since the talks began in August.The Giants' board of directors reportedly viewed Chapman as a no-brainer candidate for a lucrative extension. Posey's intervention allowed them to circumvent Boras in negotiations and reflected a lack of trust in the agent and Zaidi to finish the deal, Baggarly notes."I viewed myself and ownership working in total sync," Zaidi said. "This was a priority to get done. I'd expect them to be heavily involved in a deal of this magnitude, and they were."Posey joined the Giants' ownership group after purchasing a minority interest in the team before he retired in 2022. Zaidi, meanwhile, has found himself under fire with San Francisco heading for another disappointing finish. The club hasn't finished above .500 since going 107-55 in 2021, Posey's last season as a player.The Giants have also publicly struggled to sign marquee free agents during Zaidi's tenure. Their failed pursuits of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992">Carlos Correa</a> made headlines, while the completed deals - such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a> - have mostly disappointed.Signing and extending Chapman was a much-needed victory. The 31-year-old has accrued the National League's sixth-most fWAR (5.0) in his first season with the Giants while posting his highest OPS+ (122) since 2019.Posey won the 2012 MVP and led the Giants to three World Series titles during his 12-year playing career.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 10: Former San Francisco Giants player Buster Posey addresses the crowd during the 2014 World Series Reunion ceremony before the game between the San Francisco Giants and the Detroit Tigers at Oracle Park on August 10, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

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Report: Posey worked directly with Chapman to get extension done

Tyler Glasnow suffered a setback in his recovery from right elbow tendinitis, Los Angeles Dodgers...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a> suffered a setback in his recovery from right elbow tendinitis, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Friday, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabianArdaya/status/1834702305133748331">The Athletic's Fabian Ardaya</a>. Glasnow was slated to throw a simulated game but felt discomfort in his elbow while warming up. Additional testing will be done to determine when he can return, according to <a href="https://x.com/juanctoribio/status/1834702328110166253">MLB.com's Juan Toribio</a>. The hard-throwing right-hander has been on the injured list since Aug. 16. He also missed several weeks before the All-Star break due to lower back tightness.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Injuries have plagued Glasnow for much of his career. He's already thrown a career-high 134 innings this season despite being sidelined twice.The 30-year-old has nonetheless dominated when healthy, posting a 2.91 FIP with a 11.3 K/9.Glasnow is in the first season of a five-year, $136.5-million deal he signed with the Dodgers after they acquired him from the Tampa Bay Rays.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 05: Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts to an RBI groundout from Alec Bohm #28 of the Philadelphia Phillies, scoring Kyle Schwarber #12 to trail the Dodgers 4-3, during the sixth inning in a 5-3 Dodgers win at Dodger Stadium on August 05, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Dodgers' Glasnow suffers setback in recovery from elbow tendinitis

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone knows it's only a matter of time before Aaron Judge rediscov...

New York Yankees manager <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/873" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/873">Aaron Boone</a> knows it's only a matter of time before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> rediscovers his power stroke. "Even for kind of another historic season that he's putting together, you're still going to go through it at different times," Boone said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5764349/2024/09/12/yankees-aaron-judge-home-run-drought/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Chris Kirschner</a>."We saw it a little bit in April. We've seen it for a couple of weeks where he's not dominating at his usual self. It's something that I'm confident that he'll get rolling and I look forward to when we hop on again."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Judge has now gone 16 games without hitting a home run, the longest power drought of his prolific career. In his sophomore season in 2017, he went 15 games without a homer.But Boone believes his star is showing signs of breaking through."Tonight, he just missed one, (then) pummelled a ball that (Rafael) Devers made an unbelievable play on," he said, according to <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/1834418824596029543">SNY</a>. "Homers, even for guys like (Judge), they still come in bunches and you're going to have those stretches. I guess it's amazing that he has avoided those, but that's just a testament to how good of a hitter (he is) and how much power he has."Judge still leads all of baseball with 51 home runs and remains the runaway favorite to take home his second MVP award. He also leads MLB in both on-base percentage (.453) and slugging (.683). The Yankees hold a two-game lead over the Baltimore Orioles in the AL East after Thursday's walk-off win against the Boston Red Sox.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 06: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees reacts after striking out during the eighth inning of a game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on September 06, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. The Yankees defeated the Cubs 3-0.

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Boone confident Judge will 'get rolling' amid career-long HR drought

Corey Seager has played his last game of 2024.  The Rangers star shortstop will undergo season-en...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3924" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3924">Corey Seager</a> has played his last game of 2024.The Rangers star shortstop will undergo season-ending surgery for a sports hernia Friday, general manager Chris Young announced."Obviously, a tough decision, but with where we are at this point in the season, we felt like it was the prudent decision for him in order for him to make a full recovery, have a strong offseason, and be ready for spring training," Young said, according to <a href="https://alldlls.com/texas-rangers-corey-seager-injury-hernia-2024/">Jeff Wilson of DLLS</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I feel for Corey, but he's had a tremendous year. He's been a tremendous leader for us, and I look forward to getting him back healthy next year."Texas initially placed Seager on the injured list Sept. 4 with nagging hip discomfort that had been bothering him for weeks. He slashed .278/.353/.512 with 30 home runs and 74 RBIs prior to being sidelined.Injuries remain a persistent concern for Seager, as the five-time All-Star has eclipsed 150 games just twice in his decade-long career. He underwent surgery for a separate sports hernia in January. Seager still has seven seasons left on the 10-year, $325-million deal he inked with the Rangers in November 2021.Texas entered Thursday out of the playoff picture with a 70-76 record.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 19: Corey Seager #5 of the Texas Rangers runs the bases on his solo home run during the first inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Globe Life Field on August 19, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Rangers' Seager to undergo season-ending surgery

Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve left Wednesday's game against the Oakland Athletics wit...

Houston Astros second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a> left Wednesday's game against the Oakland Athletics with right side discomfort, the team announced.Altuve told reporters postgame he "felt a little something" but that it didn't compare to the oblique issues he dealt with last year. "I'm not really worried," he said, according to the <a href="https://twitter.com/matthewkawahara/status/1834068819586719783">Houston Chronicle's Matt Kawahara</a>. "Maybe I just wake up tomorrow, and I'm good to go ... Sometimes you have to wait until the next day and see how you feel."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 34-year-old appeared to tweak something during a fifth-inning at-bat in which he grimaced after hitting a foul ball.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jose Altuve was in pain after this swing and has now exited the game <a href="https://t.co/JC2LdHZRHt">pic.twitter.com/JC2LdHZRHt</a>— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/1834044215623372873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The awkward swing prompted an on-field conversation with manager Joe Espada and a team trainer. Altuve stayed in to finish his at-bat before being replaced at second base by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5676" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5676">Mauricio Dubón</a> to start the sixth inning.Altuve went 0-for-3 before departing the ballgame. The nine-time All-Star is hitting .302/.357/.450 with 19 home runs and 20 stolen bases in what has been another strong season with the Astros.While Altuve appears to have dodged a serious injury, Houston received less fortunate news regarding <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9924" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9924">Chas McCormick</a>. Espada said the outfielder has a fracture in his hand after crashing into the outfield wall Tuesday. McCormick was placed on the injured list Thursday. The Astros called up infielder Grae Kessinger and left-hander Bryan King and optioned pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13967" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13967">Nick Hernandez</a> in corresponding moves.Wednesday's 5-4 loss dropped the Astros' record to 77-68.

HOUSTON, TX - SEPTEMBER 11: (left to right) Houston Astros manager Joe Espada (19) checks on Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) in the bottom of the fifth inning during the MLB game between the Oakland Athletics and Houston Astros on September 11, 2024 at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas.

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Astros' Altuve day-to-day with side discomfort, McCormick to IL

The Philadelphia Phillies were unimpressed with Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Edwin Uceta for hitting Ni...

The Philadelphia Phillies were unimpressed with Tampa Bay Rays pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12500" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12500">Edwin Uceta</a> for hitting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2880" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2880">Nick Castellanos</a> with a pitch. Uceta drilled Castellanos in the side with a fastball during an eighth inning in which he allowed three earned runs. The two exchanged words, which led to both benches clearing and Uceta being ejected. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Benches clear in Philadelphia between the Phillies and the Rays. <a href="https://t.co/KkdmS9AmZS">pic.twitter.com/KkdmS9AmZS</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1833675407523983797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"I just told him that was bullshit," Castellanos said when asked about the interaction, according to <a href="https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/mlb/philadelphia-phillies/phillies-news/nick-castellanos-bryce-harper-edwin-uceta-phillies-rays/614527/?cid=sm_npd_rsn_phi_twt_mn">Corey Seidman of NBC Sports Philadelphia</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"You're throwing a baseball over 90 mph, and you're frustrated, and you're gonna throw at somebody? That's like my 2-year-old throwing a fit because I take away his dessert before he's finished."Teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> offered an equally blunt assessment."He hit him on purpose," he said. "It's not the game that we play, it shouldn't be, guys throw too hard nowadays. You're getting mad because a guy hits a homer off you or you blow the lead. Walk the guy and come out of the game. I mean, what are you gonna do? The whole thing really fired me up, really upset me. Just not something that you should accept as Major League Baseball."Uceta said after the game he was "just trying to locate this pitch" and did not hit Castellanos on purpose, according to <a href="https://x.com/TBTimes_Rays/status/1833891746704433315">Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times</a>.The Phillies ultimately won the contest 9-4.Harper went 4-for-5 with three doubles, while Castellanos went hitless in the dominant victory.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Nick Castellanos #8 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after being hit by a pitch during the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Citizens Bank Park on September 10, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Castellanos, Harper rip Rays' Uceta after HBP clears benches

Jacob deGrom will make his long-awaited return to the Texas Rangers' rotation Friday against the ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4311" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4311">Jacob deGrom</a> will make his long-awaited return to the Texas Rangers' rotation Friday against the Seattle Mariners, the club announced Tuesday.DeGrom has been sidelined since April 2023 after undergoing Tommy John surgery to repair a torn UCL.The 36-year-old is one of the league's most dominant pitchers when healthy, owning a microscopic 2.53 ERA and 11 K/9 across parts of 10 MLB seasons. Health has been a limiting factor, however, as deGrom hasn't made more than 15 starts in a season since 2021.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Rangers will also welcome back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> on Saturday."They could go five innings, 60 (pitches), somewhere in there," manager Bruce Bochy said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/jacob-degrom-max-scherzer-injury-rangers-69727fa428fbe33ad3a3c2e99578d734">David Brandt of The Associated Press</a>. "If innings are going real smooth, they could go back out."DeGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, joined the Rangers on a five-year, $185-million contract ahead of the 2022 campaign.Texas entered Tuesday six games back of the final AL wild-card spot with a 70-74 record.

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 28: Jacob deGrom #48 of the Texas Rangers pitches during a game against the New York Yankees at Globe Life Field on April 28, 2023 in Arlington, Texas.

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Rangers' deGrom to make season debut Friday vs. Mariners

Outfielder Luis Robert Jr. hasn't turned on the Chicago White Sox amidst the team's historically ...

Outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9624" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9624">Luis Robert Jr.</a> hasn't turned on the Chicago White Sox amidst the team's historically bad season."My mindset and desire is to be here," he said, according to <a href="https://chicago.suntimes.com/white-sox/2024/09/10/white-sox-luis-robert-on-trade-possibility-i-dont-even-think-about-it-whatever-will-be-will-be">Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times</a>. "But if I'm not, I know I'm going to play baseball." Robert, like many of his teammates in Chicago, is in the midst of a career-worst season. He's posted an uncharacteristic .220/.271/.390 slash line with just 14 home runs and 21 stolen bases. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The talented 26-year-old slugged 38 home runs across a career-high 145 games played to make his first All-Star team in 2023. Robert, who's slated to earn just $55 million combined over the next three years of his contract, would certainly draw the interest of teams should he be made available via trade this offseason."I don't even think about it," Robert said. "Whatever will be, will be."

BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 04: Luis Robert Jr. #88 of the Chicago White Sox warms up before the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 4, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Robert wants to stay with White Sox: 'My mindset and desire is to be here'

The New York Yankees recalled top prospect Jasson Domínguez to the major-league roster, the team ...

The New York Yankees recalled top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11835" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11835">Jasson Domínguez</a> to the major-league roster, the team announced.Domínguez will start in center field against the Kansas City Royals on Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/M_Marakovits/status/1833234888339951731">Meredith Marakovits of YES Network</a>. "Jasson's gonna play a lot," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1833235091138781347">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 21-year-old outfielder is the 16th-ranked prospect on <a href="https://www.mlb.com/prospects/top100/">MLB Pipeline</a>'s top 100. He performed well in the minors this season, posting an .880 OPS with 11 home runs, 35 RBIs, and 16 steals in 58 games across three levels.The promotion comes just days after Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said the club intended to stick with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5637">Alex Verdugo</a> in left field, suggesting the struggling veteran gave them a better chance to win. Domínguez burst onto the season last September, slugging four home runs in eight games with New York before tearing his UCL. He went hitless in his only game with the Yankees so far this season on Aug. 18 against the Detroit Tigers. The Yankees also reinstated infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3237">Jon Berti</a> from the 60-day injured list, placed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2093" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2093">DJ LeMahieu</a> on the 10-day IL with a right hip impingement, and designated left-hander Anthony Misiewicz for assignment.Boone said he isn't sure if LeMahieu will be back this season, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1833236370913190283">Phillips</a>.

WILLIAMSPORT , PA - AUGUST 18: Jasson Domínguez #89 of the New York Yankees looks on during the national anthem prior to the 2024 Little League Classic game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field on Sunday, August 18, 2024 in Williamsport , Pennsylvania.

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Yankees call up Domínguez to start in CF vs. Royals

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette reaffirmed his commitment to the organization and his tea...

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> reaffirmed his commitment to the organization and his teammates amid much speculation. "When I had time to think about what I want, basically, my ultimate goal really is to play with Vladdy (Guerrero Jr.) forever, to win a championship with him, and to do that with this organization," he said, according to <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/mlb/article/bichette-says-ultimate-goal-is-to-team-up-with-guerrero-blue-jays-long-term/">Sportsnet's Shi Davidi</a>.The comments come amid swirling - albeit, unsubstantiated - rumors of Bichette having no interest in foregoing free agency in 2025 to sign a long-term contract extension with the Blue Jays. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Guerrero</a> came up through Toronto's minor-league system together and have always shared a close bond. "(Guerrero and I) have talked since we were 18 years old in low-A, we've looked at each other every single year and told each other that we want to be together forever and win as many championships as we can," Bichette said.The two-time All-Star, currently working his way back from a calf strain suffered in July, has hit just .222/.275/.320 with four home runs in what has become a lost season marred by recurring injuries. The Blue Jays have struggled in his absence, slumping to the AL East basement with a 68-76 record after making the postseason last year. "From my point of view, what I'm focused on now is how do we get back to who we are here," Bichette said. Bichette led the league in hits in both 2021 and 2022.

TORONTO, ON - JUNE 2: Bo Bichette #11 of and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays get ready in the dugout before playing the Pittsburgh Pirates in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on June 2, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Bichette: 'Ultimate goal' is winning with Guerrero, Blue Jays

A rough return from the injured list got even worse for Justin Verlander on Sunday.  The 41-year-...

A rough return from the injured list got even worse for <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/195">Justin Verlander</a> on Sunday.The 41-year-old allowed eight runs over just three innings in a disastrous 12-6 loss against the Arizona Diamondbacks. He's now 0-4 with a 9.68 ERA since missing two and a half months with neck soreness."I felt good physically, but obviously, the results were atrocious," Verlander said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlander-allows-eight-runs-in-three-innings-in-loss-to-d-backs?partnerID=mlbapp-iOS_article-share">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a>. "Guys hit a lot of good pitches, though."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9523" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9523">Pavin Smith</a>, in particular, had his way with Verlander - he took him deep twice as part of a three-home run, eight-RBI game.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
TWO HOME RUNS SEVEN RBI PAVIN SMITH IS RAKING ON SUNDAY NIGHT BASEBALL! <a href="https://t.co/sFE7mHdUYz">pic.twitter.com/sFE7mHdUYz</a>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1832931559596265689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Verlander failed to strike out a batter Sunday for only the fifth time in his storied career. The three-inning outing was his second shortest with Houston, and the eight earned runs allowed were his most as an Astro.However, Verlander isn't convinced the results tell the full story.“I thought the fastball was better today overall," he added. "The offspeed was a bit inconsistent location-wise, which got me in a little bit of trouble."The three-time Cy Young Award winner and former AL MVP owns a 3.29 ERA with 3,405 strikeouts across 19 seasons.The Astros hold a 4.5-game lead over the Seattle Mariners in the AL West.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 08: Justin Verlander #35 of the Houston Astros reacts after giving up a grand slam in the third inning to Pavin Smith #26 of the Arizona Diamondbacks at Minute Maid Park on September 08, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Verlander: Results 'atrocious' after latest blow-up outing

The Boston Red Sox reinstated shortstop Trevor Story from the 60-day injured list, the club annou...

The Boston Red Sox reinstated shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4232" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4232">Trevor Story</a> from the 60-day injured list, the club announced Saturday. Story has been sidelined since fracturing his shoulder in a game against the Los Angeles Angels on April 5. The expectation upon diagnosis was that he would miss the remainder of the season.The 31-year-old has battled countless injuries since inking a six-year, $140-million contract with the Red Sox ahead of the 2022 season. He missed the majority of 2023 rehabbing a torn UCL. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Story, a two-time All-Star with 177 career home runs and 124 stolen bases, has posted a .681 OPS across parts of three campaigns with Boston.The Red Sox optioned infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15575" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15575">Mickey Gasper</a> to Triple-A Worcester in a corresponding roster move.Boston entered Saturday five games out of the final AL wild-card spot.

BOSTON, MA - AUGUST 12: Trevor Story #10 of the Boston Red Sox takes batting practice before a game against the Texas Rangers on August 12, 2024 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Red Sox reinstate Story from IL

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Ben Wrixon

Associate Baseball News Editor

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