The Atlanta Braves placed right-hander Spencer Schwellenbach on the 15-day injured list Wednesday...

The Atlanta Braves placed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17953" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17953">Spencer Schwellenbach</a> on the 15-day injured list Wednesday with a fractured right elbow.Schwellenbach has a small fracture and won't throw for four weeks, according to <a href="https://x.com/mlbbowman/status/1940487413379547182">MLB.com's Mark Bowman</a>. He's expected to pitch again in September.The 25-year-old believes that a recent increase in velocity led to the injury, according to <a href="https://x.com/DOBrienATL/status/1940513562189074617">David O'Brien of The Athletic</a>. Five of Schwellenbach's six pitches have seen an uptick in average velocity compared to 2024, while his fastball velocity is sitting in the 87th percentile after ranking in the 79th last season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Michigan native was enjoying a terrific sophomore campaign, authoring a 3.09 ERA and 0.97 WHIP in 17 starts. He leads the NL in fewest walks per nine (1.5) and ranks 10th in fWAR (2.2).Schwellenbach joins fellow Atlanta starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1577" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1577">Chris Sale</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5352" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5352">Reynaldo López</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14146" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14146">AJ Smith-Shawver</a> on the IL.The Braves enter Wednesday eight games under .500 and outside a wild-card spot after making the postseason in seven consecutive campaigns.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 28: Spencer Schwellenbach #56 of the Atlanta Braves pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning at Truist Park on June 28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31697843/related

Braves place Schwellenbach on IL with fractured elbow

The Atlanta Braves designated outfielder Alex Verdugo for assignment Wednesday and reinstated out...

The Atlanta Braves designated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5637">Alex Verdugo</a> for assignment Wednesday and reinstated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/2876" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/2876">Jurickson Profar</a>.Verdugo slashed .239/.296/.289 with 10 doubles and 12 RBIs after the Braves signed him to a one-year, $1.5-million deal in March. The veteran outfielder's .585 OPS (65 OPS+) was a career low.Profar returns to the majors after serving an 80-game suspension for testing positive for a banned substance.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Braves signed the 32-year-old to a three-year, $42-million deal in January.Atlanta also placed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17953" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17953">Spencer Schwellenbach</a> on the injured list with a fractured right elbow, reinstated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12741" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12741">Daysbel Hernández</a> from the IL, and optioned right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15386" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15386">Kevin Herget</a> to Triple-A.

ATLANTA, GA JUNE 27: Atlanta left fielder Alex Verdugo (8) reacts after striking out during the MLB game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves on June 27th, 2025 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31696566/related

Braves DFA Verdugo to clear space for Profar

Kevin Pillar announced his retirement from Major League Baseball during an appearance Wednesday o...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3895" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3895">Kevin Pillar</a> announced his retirement from Major League Baseball during an appearance Wednesday on "Foul Territory."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BREAKING: Kevin Pillar announces his retirement after 13 years in the big leagues. Congratulations on a great career, <a href="https://twitter.com/KPILLAR4?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KPILLAR4</a>! <a href="https://t.co/uoi1el7agW">pic.twitter.com/uoi1el7agW</a>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1940479704445931669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Pillar originally planned to retire at the end of the 2024 campaign, but he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3224749" href="https://thescore.com/news/3224749">wound up signing</a> a minor-league deal for the 2025 campaign with the Texas Rangers after realizing he still had something left in the tank.The 36-year-old made the Rangers out of spring training. However, he was designated for assignment after slashing .209/.209/.256 in 20 games.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pillar spent 13 seasons in the majors, appearing in games with 10 teams. His best years came with the Toronto Blue Jays, where he became a staple in their outfield from 2013-19.The California native retires with a career .255/.293/.405 slash line alongside 114 home runs and 54 defensive runs saved.

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 15: Kevin Pillar #1 of the Texas Rangers leaves the field during the game between the Los Angeles Angels and the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 in Arlington, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31697714/related

Kevin Pillar retires after 13 MLB seasons

San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey is holding himself accountable...

San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey is holding himself accountable for his team's recent lack of success."If anybody deserves any blame from the top, it should be on me. It shouldn't be on our manager or coaching staff. I'm the one who sets the roster," Posey said, according to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/07/02/buster-posey-sf-giants-losing-standings">John Shea of the San Francisco Standard</a>.Posey's comments came Tuesday after the team <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3306823" href="https://thescore.com/news/3306823">exercised manager Bob Melvin's option</a> for 2026 and then lost what Melvin described as "a miserable game" 8-2 to the Arizona Diamondbacks.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Giants have dropped 12 of 16 since they sat tied atop the NL West standings with the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 13. San Francisco's offense has been near the bottom of the league in runs, home runs, RBIs, and batting average during that stretch, while its pitching has been middle of the pack. Not having <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5380" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5380">Matt Chapman</a> (12 homers, .812 OPS) in the lineup has been a big loss. He's been out for nearly a month with a sprained right hand but is on track to return before the All-Star break.“From my perspective, and also my perspective as a player, sometimes when you're going through a rough patch, there's a tendency to want to point the finger at the coaches," Posey said. "Ultimately, I believe we have great players, and I still believe in that group of players, but it boils down to them needing to play better baseball."

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JUNE 30: President of baseball operations Buster Posey of the San Francisco Giants looks on in a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on June 30, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31696541/related

Posey: Blame for Giants' slide 'should be on me'

The Arizona Diamondbacks banned a fan from Chase Field on Tuesday after multiple incidences of fa...

The Arizona Diamondbacks banned a fan from Chase Field on Tuesday after multiple incidences of fan interference, including reaching over the outfield wall during Monday's contest against the San Francisco Giants."This particular fan has been involved in multiple offenses at Chase Field," the Diamondbacks said in a statement obtained by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6466830/2025/07/01/diamondbacks-fan-interference-home-run-thief-banned/">Doug Haller and Andrew Baggarly of The Athletic</a>."Consequently … he is prohibited from returning to Chase Field for the remainder of 2025. This fan will have the opportunity to return to Chase Field in 2026 so long as he meets certain terms and abides by our Fan Code of Conduct."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dave McCaskill, the banned fan, said he's jokingly been nicknamed "Home Run Thief" by one major leaguer. The 55-year-old told The Athletic he has a passion for catching home-run balls, which has occasionally led to umpire reviews for fan interference.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This Diamondbacks fan has been involved in an umpire review in FOUR STRAIGHT seasons <a href="https://t.co/wMCtKCAIqs">pic.twitter.com/wMCtKCAIqs</a>— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/JomboyMedia/status/1939915796794192383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>McCaskill, a season-ticket holder, said he's caught 24 home-run balls but has been ejected from Chase Field twice and relocated to another section once.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JUNE 30: A fan catches the ball behind Tim Tawa #13 of the Arizona Diamondbacks during the MLB game against the San Francisco Giants at Chase Field on June 30, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31695133/related

D-Backs ban spectator for multiple fan interference incidents

The Philadelphia Phillies are getting back a big piece of their lineup ahead of Monday's game aga...

The Philadelphia Phillies are getting back a big piece of their lineup ahead of Monday's game against the San Diego Padres.Philadelphia reinstated first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> from the injured list and designated infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13696" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13696">Buddy Kennedy</a> for assignment.Harper hasn't appeared in a game since June 5 due to right wrist soreness that the two-time MVP had been playing through for a long period of time.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 32-year-old admitted the pain became too much to tolerate on the field while speaking to reporters June 20.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/bryce-harper-gives-an-update-on-wrist-injury?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure>(Source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/bryce-harper-gives-an-update-on-wrist-injury">MLB.com</a>)Harper owned a .258/.368/.446 slash line with nine home runs and 34 RBIs in 57 games before the injury. The Phillies went 12-10 without Harper and enter Monday 1 1/2 games ahead of the New York Mets for top spot in the NL East.

ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 29: Philadelphia Phillies 1st baseman Bryce Harper #3 who is currently on the IL looks on from the dugout during the MLB game between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves on June 29, 2025 at TRUIST Park in Atlanta, GA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31681328/related

Phillies' Harper to play 1st game since June 5 after coming off IL

The Houston Astros placed shortstop Jeremy Peña on the 10-day injured list with a small fracture ...

The Houston Astros placed shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12665" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12665">Jeremy Peña</a> on the 10-day injured list with a small fracture in one of the ribs on his left side, the team announced Monday.Peña's IL stint is retroactive to June 28 and the Astros plan to make a corresponding move Tuesday."This isn't one of those things where you have to be sidelined the whole time," Astros general manager Dana Brown said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/jeremy-pena-rib-fracture-injured-list">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Once the inflammation goes down, he might feel good enough to swing a bat. It's more how much can he tolerate, which means he could come back soon after the 10 days."The 27-year-old infielder left Friday's win over the Chicago Cubs with left rib soreness after he was hit by a pitch during the second inning.Additional imaging revealed the injury after manager Joe Espada said that initial tests indicated no fractures.Peña is in the midst of a career year, slashing .322/.378/.489 with 11 home runs, 40 RBIs, and 15 steals. He ranks fourth in the majors in fWAR and was recently in discussions with the Astros about a long-term contract extension before switching agents.The Astros are recalling infielder Shay Whitcomb from Triple-A in a corresponding move, a source told <a href="https://twitter.com/AriA1exander/status/1939814814596891095">Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston</a>.

KANSAS CITY, MO - APRIL 11: Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña (3) prepares to throw to first base during an MLB game between the Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals on Apr 11, 2024 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31680477/related

Astros place Peña on IL with fractured rib

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen is as frustrated as the players on the field amid the club's roug...

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen is as frustrated as the players on the field amid the club's rough stretch, which included being dominated by the last-place Pittsburgh Pirates over the weekend.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tough stretch , no sugarcoating it . I didn’t see this coming . I’m as frustrated as everybody else . We will get through this period . Our injured pitching will come back over the next few weeks . It is unlikely the team’s hitting with RISP will continue at this weak pace. Keep…— Steven Cohen (@StevenACohen2) <a href="https://twitter.com/StevenACohen2/status/1939662576163475785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Mets were swept by the Pirates and were outscored 30-4 in the three-game series.The Mets held a players-only meeting after Saturday's 9-2 loss, but it didn't appear to help as they were defeated 12-1 in the finale Sunday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York started June strong, winning nine of 11 before things began to spiral at home against the Tampa Bay Rays on June 13. The Mets have lost 13 of 16 since.New York's pitching is in shambles due to injuries, which is a big part of its struggles. Since the June 13 loss to the Rays, Mets starters have combined for a league-worst 6.22 ERA, while the bullpen ranks 29th with a 6.59 ERA. 10 Mets pitchers are on the IL, including ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15438" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15438">Kodai Senga</a>.Mets manager Carlos Mendoza is optimistic things will improve for his club."We are all frustrated, obviously, not going to lie," Mendoza said following Sunday's loss, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/mets/news/mets-swept-by-pirates-allow-9-or-more-runs-in-3-straight-games">MLB.com's Will Aldrich</a>. "We’re better than that, and they know that. It's a tough stretch, but we've got to be better. It starts with me. We believe in those guys."The Mets have the day off Monday before beginning July with a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers at home Tuesday.

US hedge-fund manager and owner of the New York Mets Steve Cohen speaks during the Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute Priority Summit in Miami Beach, Florida, on February 21, 2025.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31679270/related

Cohen frustrated by Mets' rough stretch: 'I didn't see this coming'

Cleveland Guardians shortstop Gabriel Arias was carted off the field after sustaining a left ankl...

Cleveland Guardians shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12316" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12316">Gabriel Arias</a> was carted off the field after sustaining a left ankle injury against the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday, the team announced.X-rays came back negative for a fracture.Arias suffered the injury when he attempted to make a sliding grab on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12481" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12481">Masyn Winn</a>'s grounder in the third inning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The cart is out for Gabriel Arias after this play. He's being attended to on the field. <a href="https://t.co/ZnpjiYxE3M">pic.twitter.com/ZnpjiYxE3M</a>— Tim Stebbins (@tim_stebbins) <a href="https://twitter.com/tim_stebbins/status/1939364791656788348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14101">Daniel Schneemann</a> replaced Arias at shortstop.The Venezuelan shortstop owns a .231/.293/.369 slash line with 17 doubles, 31 RBIs, and three defensive runs saved in 77 games this season.

CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 29: Cleveland Guardians shortstop Gabriel Arias (13) leaves the field on a cart after injuring his lower leg making a play on a ground ball off the bat of St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Masyn Winn (0) (not pictured) during the third inning of the Major League Baseball Interleague game between the St. Louis Cardinals and Cleveland Guardians on June 29, 2025, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31673036/related

Guardians' Arias carted off after sustaining ankle injury

The Houston Astros appear ready to make a move before the trade deadline and have a specific type...

The Houston Astros appear ready to make a move before the trade deadline and have a specific type of player in mind.Houston is aggressively seeking a left-handed bat and eyeing outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5763">Cedric Mullins</a> of the Baltimore Orioles, reports <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2025/06/29/milwaukee-brewers-nl-central-standings/84404488007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>.The Astros' starting lineup is heavily right-handed, with lefty slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9552" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9552">Yordan Alvarez</a> on the injured list. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8748" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8748">Taylor Trammell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13685" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13685">Cooper Hummel</a> (switch-hitter) both hit from the left side and play the outfield for Houston, but neither has the same experience or credentials as Mullins.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Mullins, a former All-Star and Silver Slugger, owns a .741 career OPS but has struggled at the dish this season. Through 66 games, he's slashing .210/.295/.412 with 12 home runs and 38 RBIs.The 30-year-old is eligible for free agency at the end of the season for a last-place Orioles club that could be sellers entering the July 31st trade deadline.

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 27: Cedric Mullins #31 of the Baltimore Orioles runs the bases after hitting a 3 run home run in the sixth inning during a game on Opening Day against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on March 27, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31672355/related

Report: Astros aggressively seeking lefty bat, eyeing Orioles' Mullins

The Chicago Cubs are looking for ways to improve their starting staff and have their eyes on a pi...

The Chicago Cubs are looking for ways to improve their starting staff and have their eyes on a pitcher from a division rival.The Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates have been involved in serious trade discussions for over a week about right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236">Mitch Keller</a>, reports <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2025/06/29/milwaukee-brewers-nl-central-standings/84404488007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>.Pittsburgh is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3304797" href="https://thescore.com/news/3304797">reportedly</a> open to trading anyone except <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1105" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1105">Andrew McCutchen</a>, making the 29-year-old Keller an attractive trade chip.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The one-time All-Star owns a 3.90 ERA and 3.33 FIP in 17 starts. Keller's addition could bolster a Cubs rotation that ranks 23rd in starter ERA and is without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10586">Justin Steele</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14340" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14340">Javier Assad</a> due to injuries.Keller is owed about $55 million over the next three seasons.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 19: Mitch Keller #23 of the Pittsburgh Pirates delivers a pitch in the first inning during the game against the Cincinnati Reds at PNC Park on June 19, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31671968/related

Report: Cubs, Pirates in serious trade talks involving Keller

Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli were knocked out of the Austrian Grand Pri...

Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli were knocked out of the Austrian Grand Prix after colliding on the first lap of the race.The retirement is the first of the season for Verstappen and just the third time in four years that the four-time world champion has failed to finish a race.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Antonelli 💥 Verstappen: Here's the incident 🎥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustrianGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustrianGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/hWuRLjZoxP">pic.twitter.com/hWuRLjZoxP</a>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1939313538088202558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The stewards investigated the incident after the race. Antonelli was assessed a three-place grid penalty which he will serve at the British GP next weekend at Silverstone.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>It's been a rough weekend for Verstappen, who qualified seventh and entered Sunday 43 points behind McLaren's Oscar Piastri for top position in the drivers' standings.

SPIELBERG, AUSTRIA - JUNE 29: Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Red Bull crashed from Andrea Kimi Antonelli of Italy and Mercedes during the F1 Grand Prix of Austria at Red Bull Ring on June 29, 2025 in Spielberg, Austria.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31671773/related

Verstappen, Antonelli retire from Austrian GP after collision

Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran believes his team is putting too much pressure on themselv...

Boston Red Sox outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a> believes his team is putting too much pressure on themselves to score, which is contributing to their offensive funk.The Red Sox have lost six straight where they've been outscored by 22 runs and rank 21st in the majors in runs scored in June. Boston's struggles have occurred with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> on the injured list and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> traded to the San Francisco Giants."I feel like we're putting a lot of pressure on ourselves to score a bunch of runs every single day," Duran <a href="https://x.com/NESN/status/1938786392961618157">said</a> following a 9-0 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Right now I feel like we're looking for that one big hit, a homer or something. I can speak for myself that I feel like I know I'm putting a lot of pressure on myself like I do every night. It feels a little tense right now."Duran, who is slashing .211/.276/.367 with one homer and 28 strikeouts in 22 games this month, believes he's one of the culprits who needs to perform better if the Red Sox hope to turn things around."If you want to, pray for me to the baseball gods," Duran said, according to <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/06/27/sports/red-sox-losing-streak-blue-jays/">The Boston Globe's Alex Speier</a>. "It’s just not falling my way. I'm beating myself up about it more than anybody else could. I'm just trying so hard and know it puts a lot of pressure on myself, but I'm going to do whatever it takes to win for this team. So if that means putting more pressure on myself to try and do something for the boys, I'm going to do it."Boston enters play Saturday three games out of a wild-card spot.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 7: Jarren Duran #16 of the Boston Red Sox at bat during the third inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on June 7, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31663080/related

Duran: Red Sox putting 'a lot of pressure on ourselves' to score

Athletics right-hander Luis Severino admitted playing home games at Sutter Health Ballpark in Wes...

Athletics right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4775" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4775">Luis Severino</a> admitted playing home games at Sutter Health Ballpark in West Sacramento this season has been challenging."It feels like a spring training kind of game every time I pitch, and every time other guys pitch," Severino said Friday, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6457526/2025/06/27/luis-severino-athletics-sacramento-ballpark-complaints/">The Athletic's Brendan Kuty</a>."It's the same mentality we have, to go out there and try to do our best. But it's not been great for us."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 31-year-old has struggled at home this season, posting an 0-7 record in 10 starts alongside a 6.79 ERA. On the road, he's been much better, logging a 2.27 ERA with a far superior WHIP and opponent's batting average."Because we play in a big-league stadium on the road," Severino said while explaining his splits."We don't have that at home right now. It's not the same. It’s not the same atmosphere. We don't have a lot of fans. Our clubhouse is in left field. So, when we play day games, we have to just be in the sun. There's no air conditioning there, too. It's really tough."The A's, who are 15-27 at home compared to 18-24 on the road, will continue to play in West Sacramento until the end of the 2027 campaign. Severino's three-year, $67-million contract expires at the end of 2027, although he can opt out of his deal after 2026.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 18: Pitcher Luis Severino #40 of the Athletics looks on between innings against the Houston Astros at Sutter Health Park on June 18, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31662569/related

Severino: A's home games feel like 'spring training'

The Toronto Maple Leafs and veteran center John Tavares agreed to a four-year contract Friday wit...

The Toronto Maple Leafs and veteran center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a> agreed to a four-year contract Friday with an annual average value of $4.38 million.Taveres is set to turn 35 in September. His deal includes a no-movement clause for two seasons before converting to a five-team trade list, reports <a href="https://x.com/reporterchris/status/1938643007227457935">The Athletic's Chris Johnston</a>. Tavares' new cap hit is well below market value. He made $11 million per season after signing with the Maple Leafs in 2018, and general manager Brad Treliving credited the former captain for prioritizing the team on his new deal. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"No doubt my mind, there was more money for John outside of Toronto," Treliving said, per <a href="https://x.com/lukefoxjukebox/status/1938667001385209867">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>. "His commitment was to find a way to make it work for him in Toronto."Tavares initially signed with his hometown club after a nine-year run with the New York Islanders, who drafted him first overall in 2009. "Coming to Toronto seven years ago has been better than I ever anticipated," Tavares wrote on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DLaVhhPgK7g/?img_index=1">Instagram</a>."The challenge of helping bring the Cup back to the many generations of Leafs fans and Leafs Nation is an incredible opportunity that pushes myself and my teammates everyday. T.O. is an incredible place to play, and it's an honor to pull on the Maple Leaf and wear the blue and white. I'm thrilled to announce that I'm committed to four more years! My family and I are excited to continue our journey here in Toronto. The best is yet to come!"Tavares recorded 38 goals and 36 assists for the Maple Leafs this past season. He's tallied 222 goals and 271 assists with a plus-21 mark in 515 games over seven seasons in Toronto.He was an unrestricted free agent after his seven-year, $77-million contract expired following the 2024-25 campaign.

TORONTO, ON - APRIL 20: John Tavares #91 of the Toronto Maple Leafs celebrates scoring a goal during the second period of Game One of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Ottawa Senators at the Scotiabank Arena on April 20, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31654625/related

Maple Leafs, Tavares agree to 4-year contract with $4.38M AAV

The Texas Rangers made a non-guaranteed offer to free-agent designated hitter J.D. Martinez, repo...

The Texas Rangers made a non-guaranteed offer to free-agent designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1939" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1939">J.D. Martinez</a>, reports the <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/06/26/sports/j-d-martinez-has-an-mlb-offer-as-he-awaits-his-return/">New York Post's Jon Heyman</a>.Martinez is continuing to stay in baseball shape as he waits for the right deal, Heyman adds.The 37-year-old remains a free agent after spending the 2024 campaign with the New York Mets, where he slashed .235/.320/.406 with 16 home runs and 69 RBIs in 120 games.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Texas has struggled offensively this season, ranking 21st in home runs, 25th in RBIs, and 26th in runs scored.The Rangers enter Friday one game under .500, eight games back of the Houston Astros for the top spot in the American League West.

ATLANTA, GA SEPTEMBER 30: New York designated hitter J.D. Martinez (28) takes batting practice prior to the start of the MLB game between the New York Mets and the Atlanta Braves on September 30th, 2024 at Truist Park in Atlanta, GA.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31653663/related

Report: Rangers made non-guaranteed offer to J.D. Martinez

The Edmonton Oilers and center Trent Frederic agreed to an eight-year extension with an annual av...

The Edmonton Oilers and center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5614" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5614">Trent Frederic</a> agreed to an eight-year extension with an annual average value of $3.85 million, the team announced Friday.The Oilers acquired Frederic from the Boston Bruins in a three-team trade involving the New Jersey Devils in March.An injury limited Frederic to one regular-season game for Edmonton before he filled a more prominent role during the Oilers' postseason run to the Stanley Cup Final.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Frederic averaged 11:24 of ice time per contest while landing 85 hits in 22 playoff games for Edmonton.The hard-hitting power forward spent parts of seven seasons with the Bruins, potting a career-best 18 goals during the 2023-24 campaign.

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - JUNE 12: Trent Frederic #21 of the Edmonton Oilers skates after the puck during the second period of Game Four of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31653432/related

Oilers, Frederic agree to 8-year extension with $3.85M AAV

The Pittsburgh Pirates could be one of the busier teams ahead of the July 31 trade deadline as th...

The Pittsburgh Pirates could be one of the busier teams ahead of the July 31 trade deadline as they appear to be open for business.Only ace right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> and franchise icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1105" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1105">Andrew McCutchen</a> are considered untouchables by Pittsburgh, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6455108/2025/06/27/texas-rangers-globe-life-hitters-marlins-pirates/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.One of the Pirates' most attractive trade chips is right-hander <a href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236" target="_blank">Mitch Keller</a>, who owns a 3.24 FIP and rarely allows home runs despite his 1-10 record this season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 29-year-old is owed about $55 million over the next three campaigns, which accounts for most of the Pirates' payroll and makes the club trading him "possible, if not likely," according to Rosenthal.The Pirates enter Friday 18 games below .500 thanks to one of the league's worst offenses. Their attendance is also down compared to 2024, creating a reluctance from their owner, Bob Nutting, to increase payroll.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 15: Mitch Keller #23 of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts after allowing a run against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on June 15, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31653077/related

Report: Pirates open to trading everyone except Skenes, McCutchen

Yandy Díaz had high praise for the Tampa Bay Rays after they swept the Kansas City Royals on Thur...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4588" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4588">Yandy Díaz</a> had high praise for the Tampa Bay Rays after they swept the Kansas City Royals on Thursday, moving within a half-game of the American League East lead in the process."Like I've said before, I think we are the best team in baseball right now, and hopefully, we can keep it up and finish strong," Díaz said, according to the <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/sports/rays/2025/06/26/shane-baz-royals-brandon-lowe-junior-caminero-jake-mangum/">Tampa Bay Times' Marc Topkin</a>.The Rays have won five of their last six games and are 32-19 since the beginning of May.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>During that span, Tampa Bay has scored the third-most runs in the majors and owns the fourth-best wRC+ as a team. The Rays have also received elite pitching from the rotation and bullpen this season, combining for a 3.49 ERA, while the club ranks fourth in MLB in defensive runs saved."Everything in baseball, I feel like, is contagious. Good pitching is contagious. ... Everyone wants to improve on the guy before them in a beneficial, competitive way. The same thing with hitting. You watch a guy go up there and take a great at-bat," veteran infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9653" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9653">Brandon Lowe</a> said following Thursday's win."Good things are contagious, and bad things are contagious. And we're doing a very good job of executing on good things and making sure the good things are here."The Rays stand a good chance to pass the Yankees for top spot in the division with their next nine games coming against teams under .500. Meanwhile, New York has a tougher schedule over the same stretch.

KANSAS CITY, MO - JUNE 24: Tampa Bay Rays first base Yandy Díaz (2) and third base Junior Caminero (13) celebrate a win after an MLB game between the Tampa Bay Rays and Kansas City Royals on June 24, 2025 at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31652809/related

Díaz believes Rays are 'best team in baseball right now'

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. exited Thursday's game against the Clevelan...

Toronto Blue Jays first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> exited Thursday's game against the Cleveland Guardians after taking a pitch to his right forearm in the third inning.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leaves today's game vs. the Guardians after being hit by a pitch <a href="https://t.co/vAhJ7DMsRb">pic.twitter.com/vAhJ7DMsRb</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1938302772622791052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Guerrero initially stayed in the contest but was replaced defensively by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14134" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14134">Davis Schneider</a> ahead of the fourth inning. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10877">Ernie Clement</a> shifted to first base, while Schneider took over second, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> moved to shortstop.Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a> retaliated by hitting Guardians third baseman José Ramírez with a pitch near the ribs in the bottom of the fourth. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ramírez was replaced in the lineup at the end of the frame, prompting a verbal exchange between Guardians manager Stephen Vogt and Blue Jays manager John Schneider after both teams were issued warnings.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt had some words for John Schneider between innings 🍿 <a href="https://t.co/HDcx5h4wKv">https://t.co/HDcx5h4wKv</a> <a href="https://t.co/ePOgyB5Zg3">pic.twitter.com/ePOgyB5Zg3</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1938304764661407990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Both players were diagnosed with forearm contusions after X-rays on each of them came back negative.The Blue Jays defeated the Guardians 6-0.

CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 25: Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) reacts after being hit by a pitch during the eighth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Toronto Blue Jays and Cleveland Guardians on June 25, 2025, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/31647051/related

Blue Jays' Guerrero, Guardians' Ramírez exit after HBPs

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/bryan-mcwilliam/content_cards