Former big-league outfielder Terrance Gore, whose blazing speed made him a key bench player and p...

<p>Former big-league outfielder Terrance Gore, whose blazing speed made him a key bench player and pinch-running specialist for three World Series-winning clubs, died Friday at age 34.</p><p>Gore died following complications from a routine surgery, according to a <a href="https://x.com/BPerryKC/status/2020169810081116572">social media post</a> from his wife, Britney.</p><p>Gore became a fan favorite at each of his big-league stops, thanks to his unique skill set and infectious personality. While never a strong hitter, he played a vital role on multiple playoff teams as a pinch-runner who could change the game solely with his legs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He's perhaps most famous for his contributions to the Kansas City Royals during their 2014 and 2015 postseason runs. He stole five bases in his first taste of the majors late in the 2014 campaign then swiped another three and scored two runs in the playoffs to help Kansas City win a pennant. The following year, Gore again served in that role for the 2015 Royals, who won the World Series.</p><p>"Terrance was an unforgettable part of our organization with a unique talent that catapulted him to some of the biggest moments in Royals history," president of baseball operations JJ Picollo said in a statement to <a href="https://x.com/jacksonKMBC9/status/2020272152105410961">KMBC's Jackson Kurtz</a>. "While his speed and athleticism were what most people immediately noticed, those of us who had the opportunity to know him also remember his energy, his humility, and the impact he made in big moments on the game's biggest stage."</p><p>Gore appeared as a pinch-runner for four teams during five different postseasons, stealing five bases and scoring three runs while earning rings with the Royals in 2015, Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020 (although he wasn't on their playoff roster), and Atlanta Braves in 2021. He also stole 43 bases over 112 regular-season games during his career, the majority of which came while he was a pinch-runner.</p><p>He recorded just 85 plate appearances in the majors over eight years. It took until his 16th big-league plate appearance, almost four years after his debut, for Gore to finally notch his first big-league hit - a single off future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A316nboLSpc?si=77Jw1aV8lWd3aeAU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Many of Gore's former teammates and clubs as well as media members shared their grief on social media after learning of his death.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="qme" dir="ltr">💔 <a href="https://t.co/Eqo5W8qlBz">pic.twitter.com/Eqo5W8qlBz</a></p>— Eric Hosmer (@TheRealHos305) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealHos305/status/2020186139274145823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">So devastated to hear about the passing of Terrance Gore. I will forever remember his kindness and smile as much as his game-changing speed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForeverRoyal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForeverRoyal</a> <a href="https://t.co/iIfxcXEZQf">pic.twitter.com/iIfxcXEZQf</a></p>— Joel Goldberg (@goldbergkc) <a href="https://twitter.com/goldbergkc/status/2020187146523668598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rest in peace, Terrance ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/DEcWk3lapS">pic.twitter.com/DEcWk3lapS</a></p>— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) <a href="https://twitter.com/Braves/status/2020193012513726555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We are absolutely devastated to confirm the passing of longtime client and friend Terrance Gore. Terrance was a 3x World Series champion, amazing father, friend and lit up every room he walked into. Please keep Terrance‘s family in your prayers during this time. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamWSM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamWSM</a> <a href="https://t.co/VKUNEYM7nw">pic.twitter.com/VKUNEYM7nw</a></p>— Warner Sports Management (@WSM_Baseball) <a href="https://twitter.com/WSM_Baseball/status/2020197958684454985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">G Baby, you were a real one. I was lucky to call you a teammate and friend at two different stops in our journeys. I am grateful for all of the laughs and the memories we shared on and off the field. Rest in peace brother. <a href="https://t.co/XBkDtBgRo8">pic.twitter.com/XBkDtBgRo8</a></p>— Travis Snider (@Lunchboxhero45) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lunchboxhero45/status/2020252056548962791?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We join the Gore family and the world of baseball in mourning the passing of Terrance Gore.<br><br>Known for his great speed but even more so for his kindness and joyful smile, Terrance will be remembered as a tremendous teammate and a dedicated family man. <a href="https://t.co/xEvMjHdITF">pic.twitter.com/xEvMjHdITF</a></p>— Omaha Storm Chasers (@OMAStormChasers) <a href="https://twitter.com/OMAStormChasers/status/2020172269704671411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Gore finished his big-league career with 16 hits in 74 regular-season at-bats and slashed .237/.334/.274 with 324 steals and one home run over 11 minor-league seasons.</p><p>He is survived by his wife and three children.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MO - OCTOBER 14: Terrance Gore #0 of the Kansas City Royals looks on during batting practice prior to Game Three of the American League Championship Series against the Baltimore Orioles at Kauffman Stadium on October 14, 2014 in Kansas City, Missouri.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34423896/related

Terrance Gore, speedster who won 3 World Series, dies at 34

The New York Yankees are bringing back yet another member of their 2025 squad.  New York has agre...

<p>The New York Yankees are bringing back yet another member of their 2025 squad.</p><p>New York has agreed to a one-year contract with veteran first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/1851" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2019922550810165459">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>. The deal is valued at $4 million with an additional $2 million in potential bonuses, according to the <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2020129568225398958?s=20">New York Post's Jon Heyman</a>.</p><p>The 38-year-old turned down more lucrative offers elsewhere in order to return to the Yankees, according to <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/2019923549033796017">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>. Full financial terms of the agreement are not yet known.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Goldschmidt hit .274/.328/.403 with 10 home runs in 146 games with the Yankees last season. He did the majority of his damage against left-handed pitching, posting a .981 OPS with seven homers in 168 plate appearances. Conversely, he produced a .619 OPS with three round-trippers over 366 PAs against righties.</p><p>The former NL MVP could once again be the right-handed half of a first-base platoon with the left-handed hitting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16165">Ben Rice</a> in 2026. Goldschmidt, a four-time Gold Glove winner, can also serve as a defensive replacement when Rice starts at first.</p><p>Goldschmidt also adds a bit more balance to a Yankees position-player group that's overwhelmingly left-handed. Seven of the Yankees' 13 position players on their projected Opening Day roster hit from the left side.</p><p>Goldschmidt is about to enter the 16th season of an outstanding career. A seven-time All-Star, he's a lifetime .288/.378/.504 hitter with 372 homers, 1,232 RBIs, and 174 stolen bases across 2,074 games with the Yankees, Arizona Diamondbacks, and St. Louis Cardinals.</p><p>He's the latest member of the 2025 Yankees to return to the club for another year. New York's only handed out three big-league contracts this winter, to re-sign Goldschmidt, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5078" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5078">Amed Rosario</a>. The team's biggest addition was left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12507" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12507">Ryan Weathers</a>, who was acquired from the Miami Marlins in a multi-player trade.</p><p>The Yankees won 94 games last year but finished second in the AL East after losing the tiebreaker to the Toronto Blue Jays. Toronto then eliminated New York in the ALDS.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 19: Paul Goldschmidt #48 of the New York Yankees celebrates his second inning home run against the Los Angeles Angels with his teammates in the dugout at Yankee Stadium on June 19, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34410936/related

Report: Goldschmidt returning to Yankees on 1-year deal

Detroit Tigers infielder Javier Báez is ineligible to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic whi...

<p>Detroit Tigers infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3569">Javier Báez</a> is ineligible to play in the 2026 World Baseball Classic while he serves a two-year suspension due to marijuana use, his agent confirmed to <a href="https://x.com/cmccosky/status/2019586756363055175">Chris McCosky of the Detroit News</a>.</p><p>Báez, a staple of Puerto Rico's national team, had been slated to represent his country in the WBC for a third time.</p><p>The World Baseball Softball Confederation handed Báez a two-year suspension from international events after he tested positive for marijuana during the 2023 WBC, a source told <a href="https://www.freep.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/02/05/javier-baez-suspended-2026-world-baseball-classic-marijuana/88536705007/">Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press</a>. His ban reportedly expires on April 26 of this year, one month after the WBC ends.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Báez won't face any discipline from Major League Baseball or the Tigers, as the league allows players to use marijuana recreationally. However, marijuana remains classified as a banned substance by the WBSC, meaning players participating in events sanctioned by international baseball's governing body can't use the drug until after the tournament concludes.</p><p>MLB and the players' union sought to clear Báez for the upcoming tournament but ultimately couldn't work around the WBSC's drug policy, per Petzold.</p><p>Báez helped Puerto Rico reach the 2017 WBC final with an electric performance that included a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVI_-JWoqVg">no-look tag</a> at second base. He went 7-for-19 with one homer and six RBIs during the 2023 tournament.</p><p>The 33-year-old hit .257/.282/.398 with 12 homers and 57 RBIs in 126 games for the Tigers last season.</p>

PHOENIX, AZ - MARCH 17: Javier Báez #9 of Team Puerto Rico reacts after hitting a single in the eighth inning during the 2023 World Baseball Classic Quarterfinal game between Team Puerto Rico and Team Mexico at loanDepot Park on Friday, March 17, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34399549/related

Báez suspended from WBC for positive marijuana test in 2023

The Brooklyn Nets are waiving guard Cam Thomas, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania.  If he clears...

<p>The Brooklyn Nets are waiving guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96032" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96032">Cam Thomas</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/2019502974301581640">ESPN's Shams Charania</a>.</p><p>If he clears waivers, Thomas will be free to sign with another team for the stretch run. The 24-year-old is earning around $6 million this year and will become an unrestricted free agent in the summer.</p><p>"Super excited, ready to actually help and contribute to another team," Thomas told <a href="https://x.com/MarcJSpears/status/2019504392781926899">Andscape's Marc J. Spears</a>. "My next team is getting elite scoring, good playmaking, and a good combo guard."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Thomas played in 24 games for the Nets this season and made eight starts. He's been productive when on the floor, averaging 15.6 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.</p><p>Brooklyn originally selected Thomas 27th overall out of LSU in 2021.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 01: Cam Thomas #24 of the Brooklyn Nets looks to pass the ball during the third quarter of a game against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on February 01, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34396144/related

Report: Nets waiving Cam Thomas

The New York Knicks acquired point guard Jose Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange ...

<p>The New York Knicks acquired point guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96124" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96124">Jose Alvarado</a> from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102749" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102749">Dalen Terry</a>, two second-round picks, and cash.</p><p>The trade is a homecoming for Alvarado, a Brooklyn native who attended Christ the King Regional High School in Queens.</p><p>Originally signed by the Pelicans as an undrafted free agent in 2021, Alvarado developed into a fan favorite and key bench weapon for New Orleans. He's averaging 7.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists with a 41.8% field-goal percentage and 36.3% 3-point percentage across 41 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old is earning $4.5 million this season and owns a $4.5-million player option for 2026-27.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jose Alvarado picking up his player option would give the Knicks significant flexibility below the second apron next season.<br><br>It would help them maximize their depth under the second apron hard cap they'd be subjected to if they can acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo in the offseason. <a href="https://t.co/hJU6AqZNke">https://t.co/hJU6AqZNke</a></p>— Yossi Gozlan (@YossiGozlan) <a href="https://twitter.com/YossiGozlan/status/2019466094830883174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Alvarado boosts the Knicks' guard depth for the stretch run behind starters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45223" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45223">Jalen Brunson</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/37879" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/37879">Mikal Bridges</a>. He'll also help cover for the loss of shooting guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96035" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96035">Miles McBride</a>, who may miss the rest of the regular season after sustaining a sports hernia, sources told <a href="https://x.com/FredKatz/status/2019469955025064325">The Athletic's Fred Katz and James L. Edwards III</a>. McBride will reportedly undergo core surgery Friday to repair the hernia.</p><p>Terry was flipped to New Orleans less than 24 hours after the Knicks acquired him from the Chicago Bulls for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/162929" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/162929">Guerschon Yabusele</a>.</p><p>The Bulls drafted Terry 18th overall in 2022. Over his four NBA seasons, he's averaged 3.5 points, 1.7 boards, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 44.4% from the field and 31.9% from behind the arc as a bench piece. This year, he's shooting 44.1% overall and 41.3% from 3-point range while averaging 3.5 points per game in 34 appearances with the Bulls.</p><p>The 23-year-old is in the final season of his rookie deal and will become a restricted free agent this summer.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 31: Jose Alvarado #15 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 31, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34394492/related

Pelicans trade Alvarado to Knicks

The Boston Red Sox added some infield depth, agreeing to a one-year contract with veteran utility...

<p>The Boston Red Sox added some infield depth, agreeing to a one-year contract with veteran utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4693" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4693">Isiah Kiner-Falefa</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2019198987723546645">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>The deal is worth $6 million, according to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/2019236492259061846?s=20">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a><em>, </em>who <a href="https://x.com/ChrisCotillo/status/2019249015108563310?s=20">adds</a> the pact also has $500,000 in incentives.</p><p>Kiner-Falefa split his 2025 between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Toronto Blue Jays. He started the year as Pittsburgh's primary shortstop until being claimed off waivers by Toronto - who'd traded him to the Pirates one year earlier - in late August. He helped replace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> in September and the first two rounds of the playoffs after the then-Blue Jays star suffered a knee injury that kept him out until the World Series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old hit a combined .262/.297/.334 with two homers, 40 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases across 138 total games between the Pirates and Blue Jays in 2025. Kiner-Falefa was on the Blue Jays' postseason roster for all three rounds and started two World Series games at second base. He appeared to have scored the title-winning run in the ninth inning of Game 7 but was ruled out after a replay review.</p><p>Kiner-Falefa adds some versatility to Boston's bench. He has plenty of experience at third, shortstop, and second base and can slot into the outfield if required. He also often acts as an emergency catcher, having made 73 appearances behind the plate during his eight-year career. Kiner-Falefa can spell any of Boston's regular infielders while allowing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13720" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13720">David Hamilton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13718" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13718">Nick Sogard</a>, who both have options remaining, to get playing time in Triple-A.</p><p>Defensively, Kiner provides a steady hand at all three infield positions. A former Gold Glove winner at third base, he's collected 32 career defensive runs saved in over 3,800 innings at shortstop, 29 DRS across 1,818 innings at the hot corner, and 12 in 573 2/3 frames at second.</p><p>As a hitter, the Hawaii native owns a lifetime .262/.311/.349 slash line with 36 homers and 286 RBIs across 918 big-league games with the Blue Jays, Pirates, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. Kiner-Falefa's career wRC+ of 82 is the lowest among all hitters with at least 3,000 plate appearances since 2018.</p>

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 31: Isiah Kiner-Falefa #7 of the Toronto Blue Jays fields a ball during warm ups prior to Game Six of the 2025 World Series presented by Capital One between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on Friday, October 31, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34384965/related

Report: Red Sox, Kiner-Falefa agree to 1-year, $6M deal

The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after the superstar was diagnos...

<p>The Oklahoma City Thunder will be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> after the superstar was diagnosed with an abdominal strain, the team announced Wednesday.</p><p>He'll be re-evaluated after the All-Star break.</p><p>Gilgeous-Alexander sustained the injury during Tuesday's 128-92 win over the Orlando Magic. He only played 27 minutes in the game and exited for good with two minutes remaining in the third quarter when the Thunder were already ahead by 29 points.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The strain interrupts another stellar season for the 27-year-old, who has a good chance of defending his NBA MVP. Gilgeous-Alexander's averaging 31.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while posting a 55.4% field-goal percentage and shooting 39% from behind the arc.</p><p>He's also scored at least 20 points in 121 consecutive games, leaving him five shy of tying Wilt Chamberlain's NBA record. Gilgeous-Alexander extended the streak by scoring 23 against Orlando before the injury.</p><p>The Canadian will have to be replaced on Team World at this month's All-Star Game, where he'd been voted in as a starter.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - JANUARY 23: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks on during the game against the Indiana Pacers on January 23, 2026 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34381944/related

Shai out through All-Star break with abdominal strain

The free-agent market for Framber Valdez, arguably the best starter left in free agency, seems to...

<p>The free-agent market for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a>, arguably the best starter left in free agency, seems to be picking up steam with spring training approaching.</p><p>The Pittsburgh Pirates - already flush with starting pitching - are aggressively pursuing Valdez, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7021444/2026/02/04/framber-valdez-free-agency-pirates/">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Pittsburgh turned its eyes toward the left-hander after failing to find additional offensive upgrades. The Bucs previously signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5605">Ryan O'Hearn</a> and traded for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9653" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9653">Brandon Lowe</a> and were apparently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3469586" href="https://thescore.com/news/3469586">among the finalists</a> for slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a> before he joined the division-rival Cincinnati Reds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Valdez would boost an already excellent Pirates rotation into one of baseball's best. He'd join superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> as one half of a formidable duo atop the group, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236">Mitch Keller</a> and top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17585">Bubba Chandler</a> slotting in behind them. The 32-year-old would bring big-game experience to a young staff, having made 16 career playoff starts while helping pitch the Houston Astros to a World Series title in 2022.</p><p>Signing in Pittsburgh would also reunite Valdez with longtime Astros pitching coach Bill Murphy, who left Houston for the same job with the Pirates earlier this winter.</p><p>Other teams showing interest in the 32-year-old Valdez include the Toronto Blue Jays, <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2018869240418410644?s=20">Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a> reported Tuesday.</p><p>Toronto's front office reportedly met with Valdez's camp at the GM meetings in mid-November before the team signed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a>. However, Valdez's current fit with the Blue Jays isn't clear after the club added Cease and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> to a rotation that already includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>.</p><p>Ultimately, the Blue Jays' current interest in Valdez may only spike if his price tag falls to their preferred level, Rosenthal reports. It's unclear what Toronto's preferred range may be.</p><p>The Baltimore Orioles and New York Mets have also been linked to the two-time All-Star this winter. The Atlanta Braves and San Diego Padres continue to pursue rotation upgrades, according to Rosenthal, although the extent of their interest in Valdez - if it exists - is not clear.</p><p>The Orioles could use another frontline starter despite trading for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12302" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12302">Shane Baz</a> and re-signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5202">Zach Eflin</a>. Meanwhile, the Mets look set for starting pitching after acquiring ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a> to lead a group that includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20104" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20104">Nolan McLean</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9583" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9583">David Peterson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8239">Clay Holmes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4239">Sean Manaea</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15438" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15438">Kodai Senga</a>.</p><p>Valdez owns a career 3.36 ERA with a 1.20 WHIP and 8.8 K/9 across eight years with the Astros.</p>

DETROIT, MI - AUGUST 20: Pitcher Framber Valdez #59 of the Houston Astros throws to first base against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning at Comerica Park on August 20, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34375865/related

Report: Pirates pushing hard for Valdez, join Jays among suitors

Ongoing controversy surrounding the World Baseball Classic's player insurance policy may result i...

<p>Ongoing controversy surrounding the World Baseball Classic's player insurance policy may result in some last-minute changes to rosters.</p><p>On Saturday morning, after Puerto Rico captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3468188" href="https://thescore.com/news/3468188">withdrew</a> from the WBC after being declined insurance coverage, Puerto Rico Baseball Federation president Dr. José Quiles offered a harsh rebuke of the tournament's participation requirements. Dr. Quiles suggested that the insurance problems are disproportionately affecting Puerto Rico and that his nation, which is hosting Pool A at San Juan's Hiram Bithorn Stadium, may withdraw from the WBC entirely.</p><p>"We are considering not participating in this edition (of the WBC). It's a discussion we've already had," Quiles told <a href="https://x.com/jayfonsecapr">Puerto Rican journalist Jay Fonseca</a> in Spanish, as translated by <a href="https://x.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017636498921689280">WBC reporter Shawn Spradling</a>. "If we are not playing under equal conditions, we will not participate. It's a decision that is almost made. We are issuing a warning. We'll see what happens in the coming days, and we will make a final decision."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Puerto Rico's threat may have already spurred some change, as it could result in MLB approving additional players who were previously denied, a source told <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/01/31/sports/red-sox-moran/">Tim Healey of the Boston Globe</a>.</p><p>Puerto Rico also worked with WBC president Jim Small to issue a request for MLB commissioner Rob Manfred to reconsider the cases of several of its players, according to <a href="https://x.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017735985660821855">El Nuevo Día's Carlos Rosa</a>, as translated by Spradling. A meeting was held Saturday to discuss the insurance issues.</p><p>In response to the criticisms, a WBC spokesperson told <a href="https://x.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017728213636587941">Spradling</a>, "The vetting process on player eligibility for all WBC teams is currently ongoing."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here is how WBC insurance works, at least the best I understand it.<br><br>It all boils down to “guaranteed salaries”:<br><br>To play in the World Baseball Classic, a player on a Major League 40-man roster must be covered by insurance to guarantee their salary. <br><br>The insurer for the WBC is…</p>— Shawn Spradling (@Shawn_Spradling) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shawn_Spradling/status/2017656405285630205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Lindor was denied insurance because he underwent elbow surgery in October, shortly after the New York Mets' season ended. While he withdrew from the WBC, the 32-year-old said in a statement Friday that he'll be a full participant at Mets spring training.</p><p>But Lindor was far from the only player affected. <a href="https://x.com/crosarosa/status/2017618250398335279">Eight members</a> of Puerto Rico's roster - including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992">Carlos Correa</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5166" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5166">Victor Caratini</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13614" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13614">Jovani Morán</a>, among others - also withdrew from the WBC for various reasons, including insurance issues. Venezuela lost second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a> and shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2083" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2083">Miguel Rojas</a> due to a lack of insurance; Altuve's team, the Houston Astros, reportedly requested that he skip the tournament.</p><p>Rojas, who turns 37 in February, was denied insurance for the tournament because of his age. A new policy in place beginning with this WBC prevents players aged 37 or older from being insured, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/47792100/miguel-rojas-unhappy-denial-wbc-due-insurance-rule">ESPN's Alden González</a>. The new rule left him incensed ahead of what's likely his final big-league season, and last chance to play for his country.</p><p>"My only question is: Why is it just with our countries (in Latin America), like Venezuela, Puerto Rico, a couple Dominican players?" Rojas said Saturday at Dodgers FanFest, per González. </p><p>"I don't see that happening with the United States or happening with Japan. And I'm not trying to attack anybody, or attack what's going on ... but at the end of the day, it feels like it's just happening with the players that want to represent their country from Latin America. So there's a lot of things I would like to talk about with someone in control, with someone from MLB."</p><p>Full World Baseball Classic rosters will be announced Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. ET, two days after the submission deadline.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 13: Francisco Lindor #12 of Puerto Rico celebrates after hitting a triple in the fifth inning against Israel at loanDepot park on March 13, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34336655/related

Report: MLB discussing WBC insurance after Puerto Rico threatens to withdraw

The Chicago White Sox have agreed to terms with free-agent outfielder Austin Hays, sources told E...

<p>The Chicago White Sox have agreed to terms with free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8511" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8511">Austin Hays</a>, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JesseRogersESPN/status/2017606968244863328">ESPN's Jesse Rogers</a>.</p><p>The deal is a one-year contract worth $6 million in guaranteed money, including a base salary of $5 million in 2026, reports <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2017612942402064704">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>. The deal also contains a mutual option for 2027 with a $1-million buyout if the option isn't exercised, <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2017625090893222086">Rosenthal</a> adds.</p><p>Hays can earn another $375K through incentives based on plate appearances, according to Rosenthal. He apparently chose the White Sox in part because they offered him a chance to play every day, as opposed to being the right-handed half of a platoon.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He slashed .266/.315/.453 with 15 home runs and 64 RBIs in 103 games with the Cincinnati Reds last season. Hays spent the first seven years of his career with the Baltimore Orioles, where he became an All-Star in 2023 before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies at the 2024 deadline.</p><p>He signed with the Reds as a free agent last winter.</p><p>The 30-year-old joins a White Sox outfield that includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5354" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5354">Andrew Benintendi</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17727" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17727">Brooks Baldwin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13636" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13636">Everson Pereira</a>, and fellow newcomer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15424" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15424">Luisangel Acuña</a>. Top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18839" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18839">Braden Montgomery</a> will also attend big-league camp as a non-roster invitee, as will minor-league signees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10712" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10712">Jarred Kelenic</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8896" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8896">LaMonte Wade Jr.</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13886" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13886">Dustin Harris</a>, among others.</p><p>Hays, who's primarily played left field but has experience at all three outfield positions, can slot in at right field daily in 2026 while Montgomery continues developing. He could also slide over to left in place of Benintendi against left-handed pitching, thanks to his lifetime .819 OPS versus southpaws.</p><p>The Reds, Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, San Diego Padres, and Chicago Cubs were all interested in signing Hays before he chose the White Sox offer, according to <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2017603088446521800">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Austin Hays #12 of the Cincinnati Reds bats in the second inning during Game One of the National League Wild Card Series between the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Tuesday, September 30, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34327482/related

Report: White Sox, Hays agree to 1-year, $6M contract

New York Mets star and Puerto Rico captain Francisco Lindor will not participate in this year's 2...

<p>New York Mets star and Puerto Rico captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> will not participate in this year's 2026 World Baseball Classic as he continues to recover from offseason surgery on his right elbow.</p><p>In a statement issued by the MLB players' association on Lindor's behalf, insurance issues were cited as the reason for his withdrawl.</p><p>"Due to the cleanup procedure that Francisco Lindor had on his right elbow earlier this offseason, he will not be participating for team Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic," the MLBPA's <a href="http://x.com/MLBPA/status/2017447338713755945">statement</a> read. "Francisco is obviously disappointed that he will be unable to participate. However, because of WBC insurance constraints, he is ineligible to play in WBC games. He will participate fully in all spring training activities."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lindor underwent a right elbow debridement in October, shortly after the Mets' season ended.</p><p>The 32-year-old has represented Puerto Rico in each of the last two WBCs. He helped Puerto Rico reach the 2017 WBC final, and went 9-for-20 with five RBIs over five games in the 2023 tournament. This past April, Lindor was named captain of Puerto Rico's 2026 squad, marking the second straight tournament he received the honor.</p><p>His absence is the latest blow to a Puerto Rican roster that's among the favorites to advance out of Pool A, which is being played at San Juan's Hiram Bithorn Stadium. Puerto Rico will also be without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3992" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3992">Carlos Correa</a> after the Houston Astros third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3464827" href="https://thescore.com/news/3464827">withdrew</a> this week because of insurance-related issues.</p><p>Lindor is coming off another stellar season with the Mets that saw him hit .267/.346/.466 with 31 homers, 86 RBIs, and 31 stolen bases over 160 games while leading the NL in plate appearances and at-bats. It marked his second 30-30 season in the last three years.</p><p>Puerto Rico will open its tournament against Colombia in San Juan on March 6 at 6 p.m. ET. Full rosters for all teams will be announced on Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. ET, two days after the final 30-man squads are submitted.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 04: Francisco Lindor #12 of the New York Mets warms up before the game against the Cleveland Guardians at Citi Field on August 04, 2025 in New York City.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34324915/related

Puerto Rico captain Lindor out of WBC due to insurance issues

The Kansas City Royals and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino avoided arbitration by agreeing to a ...

<p>The Kansas City Royals and first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13889" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13889">Vinnie Pasquantino</a> avoided arbitration by agreeing to a two-year contract, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Pasquantino's deal will pay him more than $11 million in guaranteed money, sources told <a href="https://x.com/anne__rogers/status/2017366038745137247">Anne Rogers of MLB.com</a>. It also includes incentive clauses that can increase his earnings to nearly $16 million.</p><p>Completion of the agreement is pending a physical, per the team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Pasquantino and the Royals had been slated to go to an arbitration hearing in the next few weeks after failing to agree on a contract before the Jan. 8 deadline. He filed at $4.5 million, while the team countered at $4 million.</p><p>Instead, the sides seem to have found common ground with a multi-year agreement that covers his first two years of arbitration. Barring another extension, Pasquantino will again go through the arbitration process when his new deal expires in 2028, his final season before free agency.</p><p>The 28-year-old is coming off a solid campaign for the Royals that saw him emerge as a bona fide power threat in spacious Kauffman Stadium. He slashed .264/.323/.475 while setting career highs in home runs (32) and RBIs (113) across 682 plate appearances.</p><p>Pasquantino's reported agreement leaves left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10665" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10665">Kris Bubic</a> as Kansas City's lone arbitration-eligible player still without a contract. Bubic, who's in his third year of arbitration, is asking for $6.15 million, while the Royals countered by filing at $5.15 million.</p>

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 19: Vinnie Pasquantino #9 of the Kansas City Royals hits an RBI double in the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Kauffman Stadium on September 19, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34321166/related

Royals, Pasquantino agree to 2-year deal to avoid arbitratation

Veteran reliever David Robertson, a former All-Star and consistent bullpen presence for nearly tw...

<p>Veteran reliever David Robertson, a former All-Star and consistent bullpen presence for nearly two decades, announced his retirement Friday after 17 big-league seasons.</p><p>The 40-year-old spent his final campaign with the Philadelphia Phillies. He made 20 regular-season appearances plus one more in the playoffs after they signed him in late July.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DUJj2fhgRBX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DUJj2fhgRBX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DUJj2fhgRBX/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by David Robertson (@drobdrobdrob)</a></p>
</div></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Robertson's probably best known for his nine years with the New York Yankees, where he emerged as a key weapon in front of Mariano Rivera on their 2009 World Series-winning squad. He made his lone All-Star appearance as a Yankee in 2011 - a season in which he also earned downballot Cy Young and MVP votes after tallying 100 strikeouts in 61 1/3 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Alabama native succeeded Rivera as New York's closer in 2014 and saved a career-high 39 games before signing with the Chicago White Sox that winter. He was traded back to New York at the 2017 deadline.</p><p>Robertson hit a major roadblock in 2019 when elbow issues limited him to seven appearances with the Phillies, leading to Tommy John surgery that cost him all of 2020. The procedure ultimately extended his career: Robertson returned late in 2021 with the Tampa Bay Rays and went on to pitch four more seasons, including a 2024 campaign with the Texas Rangers where he posted a 3.00 ERA in 68 games as a 39-year-old.</p><p>He retires having posted a 2.93 ERA, 2.98 FIP, and 1.16 WHIP along with 1,176 strikeouts, 365 walks, and 179 saves across 881 big-league appearances with eight teams. Robertson - who worked entirely as a reliever, save for one start as an opener in 2021 - is one of just 16 pitchers to collect at least 1,000 Ks out of the bullpen. He ranks 10th all time in strikeouts by relievers.</p><p>Robertson was a staple of October, appearing in 10 different postseasons over his 17-year career. He didn't allow a run in five outings to help the Yankees win the 2009 World Series, and he dominated during Philadelphia's 2022 NL pennant run. He also helped the United States win the 2017 World Baseball Classic and earn a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.</p><p>Robertson will become eligible to appear on the Baseball Hall of Fame ballot for the first time in 2031.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34320636/related

Former All-Star reliever David Robertson retires

The Los Angeles Dodgers' pursuit of a second straight World Series title appeared to take everyth...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers' pursuit of a second straight World Series title appeared to take everything out of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a>.</p><p>The two-time Cy Young winner admitted Thursday that pitching 34 innings during L.A.'s championship run left his arm "tired" and "exhausted," according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/01/29/sports/dodgers-to-be-patient-with-snell-and-yamamoto/">Jack Harris of the California Post</a>. As a result, Snell is taking a cautious approach, as he and the Dodgers have reportedly decided to have him ease into his offseason throwing program.</p><p>While Snell insists he'll be ready for Opening Day, people within the organization don't consider it a guarantee, according to Harris.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"You want to ramp up, but I gotta take my time and get healthy," Snell told Harris. "I feel like I'm doing the right thing. I feel good. I've been throwing. It feels better. In the postseason, I gave everything I had for that. But on the front end of spring, I'll have to be patient and let my body get to 100%.</p><p>"That's what I'm learning talking with (the team). Don't rush. Be patient. Make sure you're 100%. And that's what's awesome about the organization. They really are focused on your health and well-being."</p><p>Snell, who joined the Dodgers last offseason on a five-year, $182-million deal, made just 11 regular-season starts in 2025 due to a shoulder injury. But the setback left him well-rested for the postseason, where he put up a 3.18 ERA and 1.00 WHIP with 41 strikeouts over six appearances.</p><p>The 33-year-old delivered dominant starts in the wild-card series, NLDS, and NLCS, allowing only two earned runs combined. However, Snell struggled in Games 1 and 5 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, surrendering 10 runs across the two starts.</p><p>Still, he was available for the epic Game 7 at Rogers Centre, emerging from the bullpen to toss 1 1/3 scoreless innings on two days' rest to set up the Dodgers' comeback. Snell handed the ball in the bottom of the ninth to fellow starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17234" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17234">Yoshinobu Yamamoto</a>, who delivered a performance for the ages on no rest to successfully defend L.A.'s championship.</p><p>"I was happy I was able to pitch the whole time," Snell told Harris. "But it was tough."</p><p>Snell isn't the only Dodgers veteran facing questions about his status in 2026. Yamamoto, also pushed to his limit in Game 7, is ramping up early to prepare for the World Baseball Classic, where he'll be Japan's ace. He threw 211 innings in 2025.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>, meanwhile, is preparing for his first full season as a two-way player since 2023. Manager Dave Roberts said the four-time MVP may be given "six, seven, (or even) eight days off" between starts to help maintain his arm, according to Harris.</p><p>The Dodgers haven't made a major addition to their rotation this winter, but they're likely to try phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19077" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19077">Roki Sasaki</a> - who excelled in relief during the playoffs - as a starter again. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18587" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18587">River Ryan</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16566" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16566">Kyle Hurt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18585">Justin Wrobleski</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15809" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15809">Gavin Stone</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12497" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12497">Landon Knack</a> are also on the 40-man roster as depth options.</p>

TORONTO, ONTARIO - NOVEMBER 01: Blake Snell #7 of the Los Angeles Dodgers walks to the dugout after being removed from the game during the ninth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays in game seven of the 2025 World Series at Rogers Center on November 01, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34312975/related

Snell: WS run left arm 'exhausted,' will ramp up slowly in spring

The Houston Astros acquired right-handed pitcher Kai-Wei Teng from the San Francisco Giants in ex...

<p>The Houston Astros acquired right-handed pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12817" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12817">Kai-Wei Teng</a> from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for catcher/outfield prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19413" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19413">Jancel Villarroel</a> and international bonus pool money, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p>Teng, who made his big-league debut in 2024, adds versatility to Houston's staff as a swingman. Although he primarily worked as a reliever in Triple-A last year, he started seven of his eight MLB appearances.</p><p>The 27-year-old Taiwan native posted a 6.37 ERA, 3.81 FIP, and 1.55 WHIP over 29 2/3 innings with San Francisco in 2025. He allowed just two homers and tallied 39 strikeouts in the majors for a stellar 11.8 K/9 rate, but he countered that by issuing 17 walks for a 5.2 BB/9 and hitting seven batters. At Triple-A last season, Teng recorded a 3.63 ERA and 1.12 WHIP with 89 strikeouts (14.1 K/9) and 22 walks (3.5 BB/9) across 57 innings.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Houston plans to begin 2026 with a six-man rotation, according to Rome and Baggarly. Whether Teng will be a part of that rotation isn't clear, but he should get a chance, as the Astros will reportedly stretch him out as a starter in spring training.</p><p>Teng comes to the Astros with some additional flexibility, as he has two minor-league options remaining. He isn't arbitration-eligible until 2029 and won't reach free agency until 2032.</p><p>For San Francisco, trading Teng frees up a 40-man roster spot that'll likely go to outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5438" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5438">Harrison Bader</a>, who reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3464855" href="https://thescore.com/news/3464855">agreed</a> to a two-year deal with the club.</p><p>Villarroel, 21, was ranked by <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/2025/astros/">MLB.com</a> as the Astros' No. 13 prospect at the end of 2025. Signed by Houston as an amateur free agent in 2022, he hit .259/.351/.388 with eight homers, 54 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases across 100 games between Low-A Fayetteville and High-A Asheville last year.</p><p>The Venezuelan is a natural catcher who can play multiple defensive positions. Villarroel spent significant time bouncing between catcher and left field in 2025, and he also has professional experience at right field, first base, and second base.</p><p>To make room for Teng on the 40-man roster, Houston designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13784" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13784">J.P. France</a> for assignment. France, 30, broke out as a key starter for Houston in 2023. However, he's made just six big-league appearances since then because of ongoing shoulder issues that required surgery two years ago.</p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 15: Kai-Wei Teng #66 of the San Francisco Giants delivers a pitch against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on September 15, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34309925/related

Giants trade Teng to Astros for prospect

New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman pushed back against criticism that he hasn't done ...

<p>New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman pushed back against criticism that he hasn't done enough to shake up the roster this winter, insisting the team will look different in 2026.</p><p>"First, we have good players. It's a collection of really talented players. It's not the same roster (as 2025), I would differ there," Cashman said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/2016639606553289055">Yankees Videos</a>. "We have some players at some point returning from the IL (next season) that are important players - (ace) <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a> being, obviously, one of them."</p><p>Cashman's comments come just days after New York finalized a five-year, $162.5-million contract to bring back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Yankees won 94 games in 2025 despite Cole's absence, reaching the playoffs for the seventh time in eight years under manager Aaron Boone. However, they finished second in the AL East after losing the tiebreaker to the Toronto Blue Jays, who then eliminated New York in the ALDS.</p><p>Cashman's response to the early playoff exit has centered around beefing up the starting rotation. New York's biggest acquisition this winter was right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12507" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12507">Ryan Weathers</a>, acquired from Miami for four prospects earlier in January. The Yankees also selected <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17858" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17858">Cade Winquest</a> from St. Louis in the Rule 5 Draft and traded for reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17225" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17225">Angel Chivilli</a> on Thursday.</p><p>The rest of the club's projected 2026 Opening Day roster remains largely unchanged from last year. New York handed out only two big-league free-agent contracts this offseason - re-signing both Bellinger and utility player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5078" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5078">Amed Rosario</a> - while center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8203" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8203">Trent Grisham</a> returned after accepting the qualifying offer in November.</p><p>The Yankees <span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">may also not be done re-signing old friends, with <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/JackCurryYES">YES Network's Jack Curry</a> reporting Tuesday that the team is still discussing a reunion with first baseman <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a></span>, per <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/yankees-free-agency-trade-buzz-tracker-2025-26?utm_sf_post_ref=660551335&amp;utm_sf_cserv_ref=19556528">SNY</a>. If Goldschmidt did return, the right-handed hitter would platoon with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16165">Ben Rice</a> and help balance a lineup that Cashman <a href="https://x.com/BryanHoch/status/1997851681674174605">acknowledged</a> in December was too left-handed.</p><p>While defending his offseason moves Wednesday, Cashman pointed out that the roster will likely look quite different by October. He noted that the club acquired "a lot of weapons" ahead of the 2025 trade deadline and highlighted the anticipated returns of Cole, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13802" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13802">Anthony Volpe</a> from injury as major boosts.</p><p>"We've had some additions from the second half (of 2025) that got their feet wet with the Yankees, some with success, some with failures or success," Cashman said. "But they'll now be in a position to join us with their feet on the ground and getting their sea legs under them - with a manager, too, learning how to utilize these guys, where they slot, and everything else."</p><p>He added: "So I disagree (that) it's the same team running it back. It's gonna be some differences. And the competition's gonna be different, too. In some cases, some (other) teams got better. In other cases, some teams you could maybe argue some teams got a little worse. Our division's the best in baseball. But long story short, one series (loss) ... is not gonna define what we think our capabilities are."</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 15, 2022: Senior Vice President, general manager Brian Cashman of the New York Yankees looks on prior to Game 3 of the American League Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on October 15, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34296325/related

Yanks' Cashman defends offseason moves: 'Not the same roster' as 2025

Things got more than a little chippy at the end of Tuesday's game between the New Orleans Pelican...

<p>Things got more than a little chippy at the end of Tuesday's game between the New Orleans Pelicans and Oklahoma City Thunder, leading to a near-brawl between the teams.</p><p>The action started heating up with a little over a minute to go in the fourth quarter and the Thunder up seven. Oklahoma City's Jaylin Williams and New Orleans' Saddiq Bey got tangled up on an inbounds play and had to be separated after exchanging shoves. Both players received technical fouls.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jaylin Williams and Saddiq Bey get into it late in Thunder-Pelicans 👀<br><br>Both got hit with double techs.<a href="https://t.co/1salZU93P5">pic.twitter.com/1salZU93P5</a></p>— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/2016351095417684428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Tensions at Paycom Center then boiled over at the final whistle. After the Pelicans missed a final shot at the buzzer, Lu Dort and Jeremiah Fears got into it under the net, leading to both benches clearing. Dort appeared to try and grab Fears near his neck, but instead got a fistful of jersey as the pile grew larger.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lu Dort and Jeremiah Fears get into it after the buzzer 👀 <a href="https://t.co/AyVASuPsYy">pic.twitter.com/AyVASuPsYy</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/2016370913625747962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I wasn't too sure what happened," Thunder star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> told reporters postgame of Dort and Fears' exchange, including <a href="https://x.com/Joe_Sway/status/2016364217310302557?s=20">ClutchPoints' Josue Pavón</a>.</p><p>"I had heard them going back and forth after I made the last two free throws. ... And then I turned around and they were face-to-face. I'm sure it was nothing crazy though. Typical basketball scuffle."</p><p>Oklahoma City head coach Mark Daigneault felt the whole skirmish could've been avoided had the referees done a better job of managing the game down the stretch.</p><p>"I think that's a foul on Dort. And if it was, they should put a whistle on that play regardless of the score and time because if they do that, everybody stops playing and you can legislate the situation as you normally would," Daigneault said, per <a href="https://x.com/Joe_Sway/status/2016358934982889632?s=20">Pavón</a>. </p><p>"But because they didn't put a whistle on it, it's the end of the game. They can do nothing about it, and you end up with that situation."</p><p>When the dust settled, the Thunder walked away with a 104-95 win.</p>

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - JANUARY 27: Saddiq Bey #41 of the New Orleans Pelicans and Jaylin Williams #6 of the Oklahoma City Thunder exchange words during the second half at Paycom Center on January 27, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34288594/related

Thunder-Pelicans nearly brawl at buzzer after testy 4th quarter

With spring training looming, Zac Gallen's market seems to be finally gaining steam.  The Baltimo...

<p>With spring training looming, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a>'s market seems to be finally gaining steam.</p><p>The Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, and Arizona Diamondbacks - Gallen's team for the last seven seasons - are showing interest in the veteran right-hander, <a href="https://x.com/MLBNetwork/status/2016285842591891751">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a> reports.</p><p>Gallen is one of the best starting pitchers left on the free-agent market despite coming off a difficult 2025. He posted a career-worst 4.83 ERA and 8.2 K/9 along with a 1.26 WHIP in 192 innings with Arizona last season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, Gallen's just two years removed from finishing third in NL Cy Young voting as the ace of the D-Backs' 2023 NL pennant-winning staff. The 30-year-old is also one of the more durable starters in baseball, making at least 28 starts every year since 2022 and throwing at least 180 innings in three of the last four seasons.</p><p>If Gallen can bounce back in 2026, he'd be a great help to any of the reported clubs bidding for his services. The Cubs, Orioles, and D-Backs have all acquired starting pitching this winter but would benefit from slotting Gallen atop their rotations, where he'd lengthen their staffs.</p><p>Gallen rejected the D-Backs' qualifying offer in November, meaning he's tied to draft-pick compensation should he sign with another team before Opening Day.</p><p>The Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres also checked in on Gallen, although they're considered long shots to land him, according to Heyman.</p><p> </p>

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - SEPTEMBER 15: Zac Gallen #23 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches in the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Chase Field on September 15, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34283791/related

Report: Orioles, Cubs, D-Backs interested in Gallen

Nathan Rourke is staying on the West Coast, as the CFL's reigning Most Outstanding Player has agr...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/149469" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/149469">Nathan Rourke</a> is staying on the West Coast, as the CFL's reigning Most Outstanding Player has agreed to a two-year extension with the BC Lions.</p><p>Rourke was scheduled to become a free agent next offseason before signing the extension.</p><p>"I'm honoured to continue my lifelong dream as a professional football player with the BC Lions," Rourke <a href="https://www.bclions.com/2026/01/27/rourke-remains-home-through-2028/?utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=dhtwitter&amp;utm_content=app.dashsocial.com/bc-lions/library/media/634535645">said</a> in a statement. "I'm fortunate to be part of an organization that believes in me and trusts me to lead both on and off the field. ... This organization has redefined family for me and I'm excited to keep chasing the goal of bringing a Grey Cup back to the West Coast."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rourke, 27, is coming off a historic 2025 campaign that saw him join Hall of Famer Russ Jackson as the only Canadian QBs to be named MOP. He passed for a Canadian single-season record 5,290 yards along with 31 touchdowns and a 70.4 completion percentage. The dual-threat pivot also ran for 564 yards - tops among quarterbacks and eighth in the league overall - and 10 rushing majors.</p><p>The Oakville, Ontario, native was originally drafted by BC second overall in 2020. He briefly left the Lions in 2023 to pursue NFL opportunities before returning in August 2024.</p><p>BC went 11-7 last year to finish second in the West Division, but the team was eliminated by Saskatchewan in the West final. The Lions haven't played in a Grey Cup game since their most recent win in 2011.</p>

REGINA, CANADA - NOVEMBER 8: Nathan Rourke #12 of the BC Lions throws a pass during warm-up before the CFL Western Final game between the BC Lions and Saskatchewan Roughriders at Mosaic Stadium on November 8, 2025 in Regina, Canada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34283140/related

Lions extend CFL MOP Rourke through 2028

Pittsburgh Pirates icon Andrew McCutchen doesn't seem pleased with how the team is treating him b...

<p>Pittsburgh Pirates icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1105" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1105">Andrew McCutchen</a> doesn't seem pleased with how the team is treating him before what could be the final year of his career.</p><p>McCutchen, who's currently a free agent, had harsh words for his longtime team Saturday, hours after Pirates general manager Ben Cherington was noncommittal about re-signing him.</p><p>"Andrew has meant a ton to the team. He's had an incredible run at two different times," Cherington told fans who asked about McCutchen at Saturday's PiratesFest, according to <a href="https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/pirates/2026/01/24/piratesfest-ask-management-accountability-bob-nutting-travis-williams/stories/202601240016">Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette</a>. "Certainly his legacy as a Pirate is secure. Everybody with the Pirates, it's our desire to maintain a really good relationship with Andrew well into the future. Then we come back to our team. What is the job? The job is to build a team that gives us the best chance to win games when you're at the ballpark in June and July."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He added: "Our approach this offseason has been laser-focused on what gives us the best chance to win more baseball games in Pittsburgh than we have in the past seasons. That's gonna continue to guide our decisions. So much respect for Andrew. That relationship is really important to us. We'll continue to communicate with him directly as the team comes together. We have more work to do."</p><p>Cherington's words apparently didn't sit well with McCutchen. Late Saturday, the 39-year-old lashed out at the Bucs on X while responding to Pittsburgh radio host Josh Rowntree, who suggested that the team should move on.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I wonder, did the Cards do this Wainwright/Pujols/Yadi? Dodgers to Kershaw?Tigers to Miggy? The list goes on and on. If this is my last year, it would have been nice to meet the fans one last time as a player. Talk to them about my appreciation for them over the years. Shake that… <a href="https://t.co/oB8Nq1bjng">https://t.co/oB8Nq1bjng</a></p>— Andrew McCutchen (@TheCUTCH22) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheCUTCH22/status/2015280376088781216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"If this is my last year, it would have been nice to meet the fans one last time as a player," McCutchen wrote. "Talk to them about my appreciation for them over the years. Shake that little kid's hand or hug the fan that's been a fan since (Roberto) Clemente. You see, this is bigger than baseball! Bigger than looking at a 40-man roster and cherry-picking numbers that fit your agenda or prove why your opinion matters. The fans deserved at the very least to get that opportunity."</p><p>McCutchen's spent 12 of his 17 big-league seasons in Pittsburgh, where he broke out as a star and a beloved Pirate during the early 2010s. He was named 2013 NL MVP after leading the team to its first winning record and playoff appearance in 21 years.</p><p>Pittsburgh traded him (and Gerrit Cole) after the 2017 season, when both homegrown stars were nearing free agency. McCutchen played for four teams over the next five seasons before returning to the Pirates in 2023.</p><p>McCutchen hit .239/.333/.367 with 13 homers and 57 RBIs across 551 plate appearances as the Pirates' primary DH in 2025. In August, he told <a href="https://x.com/JMackeyPG/status/1957540927875989595">Mackey</a> that he wanted to keep playing in 2026. But when asked at that time if he wanted to come back to Pittsburgh, McCutchen stated that winning was his priority and he'd "have to take care of my business first."</p><p>The five-time All-Star reiterated his outlook in his comments Saturday.</p><p>"(I don't know) what the future holds for me at the present moment, but what I do know is, though I am 39, on the back end of my career, I still work everyday to be better than I was the year before," he wrote. "If there wasn't a burning desire to continue this journey, I would be home surrounded by my family, in which no one would judge or be surprised. But not yet. There's more work to do, and I'm not done, no matter what label to you try to stamp on me. Rip the jersey off of me. You don't get to write my future, God does."</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 30: Andrew McCutchen #22 of the Pittsburgh Pirates looks on after a fan fell from the stands during the seventh inning against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park on April 30, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/34260963/related

McCutchen rips Pirates after GM's comments on uncertain future with team

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/simon-sharkey-gotlieb/content_cards

Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

News Editor

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/tom-ruminski/content_cards

Tom Ruminski

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/josh-wegman/content_cards