The Chicago Cubs punched their ticket to the postseason with an 8-4 win over the Pittsburgh Pirat...

<p>The Chicago Cubs punched their ticket to the postseason with an 8-4 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HEY OCTOBER, WHADDYA SAY?! <a href="https://t.co/C65y9zVSn4">pic.twitter.com/C65y9zVSn4</a></p>— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cubs/status/1968403509151252772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Chicago will be participating in the playoffs for the first time since the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign. The club hasn't played October baseball during a full season since 2018.</p><p>Outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5607" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5607">Ian Happ</a> acknowledged he felt emotional after the achievement following near misses in 2023 and 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The group of guys here - through some tough years - through some really close calls over the last couple of years, " Happ said on the field postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/1968407033259995252">MLB on FOX</a>. "I know all the work they've put in (and) all the work we've put in since Day 1."</p><p>The Cubs join the Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers as the only MLB teams to have clinched postseason berths this season.</p><p>Chicago will likely enter the playoffs as the NL's top wild-card seed, setting the club up for a potential collision course to play the San Diego Padres in the first round.</p><p>The wild-card series begins Sept. 30.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Matthew Boyd #16 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates the team's 8-4 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates to clinch a spot in the National League Playoffs at PNC Park on September 17, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Cubs clinch playoff spot for 1st time since 2020

Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is willing to do anything it takes to help the Los Angeles Dodger...

<p>Two-way superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> is willing to do anything it takes to help the Los Angeles Dodgers win back-to-back World Series, including playing in the outfield if he needs to pitch out of the bullpen.</p><p>"I've been having various conversations with different people, and that topic has come up as well," Ohtani told reporters postgame Tuesday following a 9-6 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, according to <a href="https://x.com/DMAC_LA/status/1968198882921419013">Doug McKain of Dodgers Nation</a>.</p><p>"That applies to the mound, and possibly even the outfield. If I end up going as a reliever, then depending on what follows, there could be situations where I also need to play defense in the outfield. So, no matter what situation arises, I want to make sure I'm prepared to handle it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ohtani has appeared in seven games in the outfield, totalling 8 1/3 innings, over his eight-year career. However, the NL MVP favorite hasn't played right or left field since 2021, when he was with the Los Angeles Angels. He's also never pitched as a reliever in the majors.</p><p>"He's a great teammate," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SportsNetLA/status/1968195146744508419">SportsNet LA</a>. "He wants to help us win a championship. So, I'm all about it. I don't know if it's going to happen. He hasn't played the outfield. But I appreciate the fact that he's open to whatever we need. I don't know how that looks, though. He hasn't taken a fly ball all year."</p><p>To keep Ohtani's bat in the lineup if he pitches in relief, the Dodgers would have to use the 31-year-old in the outfield after he starts the game as a designated hitter. He can currently begin a contest as a pitcher and still DH after he finishes pitching because of the "Shohei Ohtani rule" established in the 2022 collective bargaining agreement.</p><p>Ohtani logged five hitless innings and recorded his 50th homer of the season during Tuesday's defeat. He became the first player in MLB history to collect 50 strikeouts and 50 long balls in the same season.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 5: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms up in the outfield prior to a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on April 5, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Ohtani willing to play outfield in playoffs if used as reliever

Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette will be sidelined for the rest of the regular season whil...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> will be sidelined for the rest of the regular season while recovering from a left knee sprain, manager John Schneider said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/1968066971691520286">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>However, the Blue Jays are focused on getting Bichette back for the playoffs.</p><p>Schneider added that the second opinion on Bichette's injured PCL was a positive one, as he'll only need rest and rehabilitation to recover, according to <a href="https://x.com/ArdenZwelling/status/1968066395352207488">Arden Zwelling of Sportsnet</a>. The two-time All-Star could resume baseball activities later this week.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The skipper acknowledged that the second opinion confirmed what the team was originally told.</p><p>"There's still no definitive timetable," Schneider said, according to <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/1968061282948616513">Matheson</a>.</p><p>The Blue Jays won't play their first postseason game until Oct. 4 if they hang on to win the American League East and finish with one of the top two records in the AL. Toronto enters Tuesday's action five games up on the New York Yankees for the division lead and six games ahead of the AL West-leading Seattle Mariners - the No. 3 seed in the league.</p><p>Bichette landed on the 10-day injured list last Tuesday after he hurt his knee in a collision at home plate while facing the New York Yankees three days earlier. The shortstop remained in the game following a weather delay.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/bo-bichette-leaves-game-with-injury?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/bo-bichette-leaves-game-with-injury?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share">MLB.com</a>)</p><p>Bichette has been one of Toronto's best players this season. The 27-year-old has the most hits (181) and doubles (44) in the majors and leads the Blue Jays in RBIs (94) and batting average (.311).</p><p>The seven-year veteran will be a free agent at the end of the season.</p>

DENVER, CO - AUGUST 6: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays walks in the dugout in the second inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on August 6, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Bichette out for regular season with knee injury, could return for playoffs

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Trey Yesavage created a lot of buzz with a dazzling outing in his ...

<p><em>Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a> created a lot of buzz with a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3346523" href="https://thescore.com/news/3346523">dazzling outing in his first major-league game</a> Monday against the Tampa Bay Rays. How does his performance stack up to other impressive debuts in franchise history? Let's take a look.</em></p><h3>5. Davis Schneider (Aug. 4, 2023 vs. Red Sox)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WTUNYjZFbMQ?si=1LzVJgnem2gf3KjT" 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>Schneider became an instant fan favorite after homering at Fenway Park in his first MLB at-bat. He went 2-for-5 to start an incredible three-game series that saw him become the first player to collect nine hits and two homers in his first three contests. His nine hits also matched a modern MLB record dating back to 1901.</p><h3>4. Trey Yesavage (Sept. 15, 2025 vs. Rays)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c_9tlg6rJI4?si=GEf5ezRGjP1vcfdR" 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>Even more impressive than Yesavage's franchise-record nine strikeouts in an MLB debut is how dominant he was over five-plus innings. He racked up 19 swing-and-misses, including 11 whiffs via his splitter, for the fifth-highest total in a debut since the pitch-tracking era started (2008). The 22-year-old top prospect came one pitch short of an immaculate inning in the fourth. His dad teared up after the head-turning performance at George M. Steinbrenner Field.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trey Yesavage's family couldn't hold back the emotions after his MLB debut 🥹❤️ <a href="https://t.co/mdnULZ2XAp">pic.twitter.com/mdnULZ2XAp</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1967762939240423934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>3. Alek Manoah (May 27, 2021 vs. Yankees)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WgAoUcz_Ujg?si=28CWSUOyhaEi_kgF" 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>There was a ton of hype surrounding Manoah after he was the first pitcher from the 2019 draft promoted to the majors. He didn't disappoint. The right-hander carved up the Yankees in New York, striking out seven over six shutout innings en route to his first MLB win. Only two of the 13 balls put in play against Manoah were classified as hard hits.</p><h3>2. Mauro Gozzo (Aug. 8, 1989 vs. Rangers)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801560/cropped_GettyImages-502319453.jpg?ts=1758044525" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801560/w220xh124_GettyImages-502319453.jpg?ts=1758044525 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801560/w320xh180_GettyImages-502319453.jpg?ts=1758044525 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801560/w640xh360_GettyImages-502319453.jpg?ts=1758044525 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801560/w768xh432_GettyImages-502319453.jpg?ts=1758044525 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/801560/w1080xh607_GettyImages-502319453.jpg?ts=1758044525 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Goode / Toronto Star / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Gozzo may not be a household name, but he pitched like one in his debut during the inaugural season of the SkyDome (now known as the Rogers Centre)<em>. </em>The right-hander allowed just three hits with four strikeouts and three walks over eight shutout innings versus the Rangers. It would stand as the best start of his six-year career.</p><h3>1. J.P. Arencibia (Aug. 8, 2010 vs. Rays)</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QaU4WumIzAQ?si=DI7x4wizq_oe9wJf" 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>Arencibia erupted with two homers, three RBIs, and three runs scored in a 4-for-5 day at the plate in his first big-league game. He's one of five players to go deep twice in an MLB debut and the only major leaguer with two long balls and four hits in the first game of an MLB career. Once a top catching prospect, Arencibia never lived up to expectations, but he secured his place in Blue Jays lore.</p><p><em><strong>Honorable mentions:</strong> </em>Jesse Litsch, Marc Rzepczynski, Nate Pearson, Brandon Lyon, Lloyd Moseby, Brett Lawrie</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 15: Trey Yesavage #39 of the Toronto Blue Jays high-fives teammates in the dugout following the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays during his Major League Debut at George M. Steinbrenner Field on September 15, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

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Top 5 MLB debuts in Jays history: Where does Yesavage rank?

New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. believes his team made a big statement by takin...

<p>New York Yankees second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a> believes his team made a big statement by taking the first two games of a weekend series with the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.</p><p>"That we're the best team in the (American) League," Chisholm said following Saturday's 5-3 win that gave the Yankees their first series victory over the Red Sox this season, according to <a href="https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/09/13/yankees-jazz-chisholm-jr-red-sox-brayan-bello/?share=coblsme0btmowecahryj">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>. "I feel like any team that thinks they're better than us, they should know when we step on the field that we're coming with relentlessness.</p><p>"We're coming to step on necks. We're not here to play around."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chisholm went 3-for-5 with a homer and three RBIs to move within one long ball of the first 30-30 season of his six-year career. The 27-year-old would be only the third player in Yankees history to accomplish the feat.</p><p>The two-time All-Star credited a recent "bonding session" outside the ballpark for helping him and his teammates get locked in.</p><p>"We had a team talk between all the boys," Chisholm said. "We were just talking about at-bats and stuff like that. The next day, things went good."</p><p>New York has gone an MLB-best 23-11 since Aug. 6 following a prolonged slump. The strong play has brought the Yankees to within three games of the AL East-leading Toronto Blue Jays while building a 2.5-game lead over the Red Sox for the AL's top wild-card spot.</p><p>The Yankees will look to right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a> on Sunday to complete the sweep. The Red Sox are countering with ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>. </p>

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 13: Jazz Chisholm Jr. #13 of the New York Yankees celebrates after their 5-3 win over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on September 13, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Chisholm says Yankees 'best team' in AL: 'Coming to step on necks'

The Milwaukee Brewers became the first club to clinch a playoff berth this season after the New Y...

<p>The Milwaukee Brewers became the first club to clinch a playoff berth this season after the New York Mets lost to the Texas Rangers on Saturday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">TICKET PUNCHED ‼️ <a href="https://t.co/rWQieBsSTl">pic.twitter.com/rWQieBsSTl</a></p>— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brewers/status/1967007116910358979?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"These guys, nobody believed in 'em," manager Pat Murphy told <a href="https://x.com/MLBONFOX/status/1967033071003431292">Ken Rosenthal of MLB on FOX</a> during Saturday's game versus the St. Louis Cardinals. "Nobody predicted they'd be .500. There's no one. They went against that."</p><p>Milwaukee has made the postseason in three straight years and seven of the last eight since 2018. However, success in October has been elusive, as the team has advanced to the NLCS just once amid the stretch.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The MLB-leading Brewers were also first to reach 90 wins thanks to a plus-173 run differential, which is the best mark in baseball. </p><p>Milwaukee's magic number to win the NL Central is down to nine following the Chicago Cubs' loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday afternoon.</p><p>The Brewers' outstanding regular season comes after getting outscored 15-47 during an 0-4 start.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - AUGUST 26: The Milwaukee Brewers celebrate their walk off victory during a game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Arizona Diamondbacks at American Family Field on August 26, 2025 in Milwaukee, WI.

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Brewers become 1st team to punch postseason ticket

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge hit the 362nd home run of his career in the first inning ...

<p>New York Yankees outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> hit the 362nd home run of his career in the first inning of Friday's 4-1 win over Boston Red Sox to pass Joe DiMaggio for fourth in franchise history.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Aaron Judge hits a homer OUT OF FENWAY 😳 <a href="https://t.co/cNvOHHcUdZ">pic.twitter.com/cNvOHHcUdZ</a></p>— MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1966641970807210050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Judge took 1,130 games to reach the mark, while DiMaggio needed 1,736 contests. The former only trails Lou Gehrig (493), Mickey Mantle (536), and Babe Ruth (659) on New York's all-time list.</p><p>"It's special, but just like all those guys in front of me on those lists - they weren't playing for records," Judge said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1966700869933551989">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>. "They were playing to win, so I'm just trying to follow in their footsteps."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 33-year-old also set an MLB record with his 19th first-inning homer of the year, breaking a tie with Alex Rodriguez from 2001.</p><p>Judge's homer was No. 47 this season. He's three long balls away from reaching the 50-homer plateau for the fourth time in his 10-year career.</p><p>The two-time AL MVP has hit the most round-trippers by a right-handed batter in Yankees history.</p>

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 12: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees reacts after hitting a solo home run against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning at Fenway Park on September 12, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Judge passes DiMaggio for 4th on Yankees' all-time HR list

Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is being evaluated after departing Friday's game against the Miam...

<p>Detroit Tigers ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a> is being evaluated after departing Friday's game against the Miami Marlins in the fourth inning because of tightness in his left side, the Tigers announced.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/eric-wagaman-flies-out-to-center-fielder-parker-meadows?partnerId=web_multimedia-search_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p><em>(Video source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/eric-wagaman-flies-out-to-center-fielder-parker-meadows?q=Skubal&amp;cp=CMS_FIRST&amp;qt=FREETEXT&amp;p=0">MLB.com</a>)</em></p><p>The star left-hander will undergo imaging Saturday to determine the severity of the injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm optimistic about it," Skubal said following Detroit's 8-2 loss to Miami, according to <a href="https://x.com/CodyStavenhagen/status/1966681900157649068">The Athletic's Cody Stavenhagen</a>.</p><p>"Obviously we'll get some more information and probably an image on it just to see what's there, kind of calm the brain down."</p><p>Skubal, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, is the favorite to repeat this season.</p><p>The 28-year-old owns a 2.26 ERA with 0.86 WHIP and 224 strikeouts over 183 1/3 innings (29 starts) for the AL Central-leading Tigers in 2025.</p><p>Any extended absence for Skubal would be a massive blow to Detroit with just over two weeks remaining in the regular season.</p><p>Tigers shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3569">Javier Báez</a> also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3343838" href="https://thescore.com/news/3343838">left the contest</a> after he fouled off a pitch that struck near his left eye in the second inning.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 12: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers leaves the game in the fourth inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on September 12, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Skubal exits vs. Marlins with side tightness

The Chicago Cubs placed All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker on the 10-day injured list Tuesday becaus...

<p>The Chicago Cubs placed All-Star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> on the 10-day injured list Tuesday because of a left calf strain.</p><p>Tucker hasn't played since Sept. 2 due to the injury. He'll be eligible to come off the IL on Sept. 16 since the move is retroactive to last Saturday.</p><p>The 28-year-old has hit 22 homers with 73 RBIs and an .854 OPS over 133 games this season, helping the Cubs post the third-best record in the National League. He can test free agency after the World Series.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Catcher Moisés Ballesteros was recalled from Triple-A to take Tucker's spot on the active roster.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 17: Kyle Tucker #30 of the Chicago Cubs exits the field of play in a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field on August 17, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Cubs' Tucker lands on IL with calf strain

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider believes right-hander Max Scherzer was tipping pitches d...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider believes right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> was tipping pitches during Sunday's 4-3 loss to the New York Yankees to conclude a big weekend series between the division rivals.</p><p>Yankees baserunner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> was seen moving his arms on second base moments before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16165" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16165">Ben Rice</a> hit a three-run homer off Scherzer in the first inning.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Max Scherzer was tipping his changeup (see Aaron Judge) before that Ben Rice HR, which came on a fastball. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yankees?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yankees</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueJays?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueJays</a> <a href="https://t.co/tyGlPHyDhY">pic.twitter.com/tyGlPHyDhY</a></p>— Gary Phillips (@GaryHPhillips) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1964749201864327387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"Ya, they were relaying. They're good at it," Schneider said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/MitchBannon/status/1964788992488173658">Mitch Bannon of The Athletic</a>. "Max has got to be a little bit better, and it was obvious on the changeups. Rice just missed the one on the foul homer. It's fair game, the whole MLB knows the Yankees are good when they got something."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Blue Jays first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5766">Ty France</a> acknowledged he also saw the Yankees signaling to each other what Scherzer was going to throw.</p><p>"<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">(Cody) Bellinger</a> was kind of flapping his hands around, relaying it (the pitch) to Judge," France said, according to <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/1964796183005774089">Hazel Mae of Sportsnet</a>. </p><p>"Guys at first don't typically flap their arms like that. ... It's just part of the game."</p><p>Bellinger confirmed he was relaying to Judge to inform Rice what pitch was coming.</p><p>"That is correct," Bellinger said, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1964806544907739563">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>. "That is what was happening."</p><p>Scherzer added he wasn't surprised by the Yankees' tactics.</p><p>"That's part of the game," the three-time Cy Young winner <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/1964793435283730434">said</a>. "It's 2025, everybody knows it. We live it. ... That's just part of the game."</p><p>Toronto's AL East lead is down to two games over New York after losing two out of three in the Bronx. The Blue Jays do own the tiebreaker after going 8-5 against the Yankees during the regular season.</p>

BRONX, NY - SEPTEMBER 07: Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer (31) during a game between the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on September 7, 2025 in the Bronx, New York.

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Jays' Schneider: Yankees were relaying Scherzer's pitches 

Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner said he'll have an MRI on Monday after leaving Sunday...

<p>Philadelphia Phillies shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4814" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4814">Trea Turner</a> said he'll have an MRI on Monday after leaving Sunday's game with a right hamstring strain, according to the <a href="https://x.com/ScottLauber/status/1964797821321896363">Philadelphia Inquirer's Scott Lauber</a>.</p><p>Turner added he felt a "grabbing" sensation in his hamstring after attempting to leg out a grounder in the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOUDG2zEsSI/?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/reel/DOUDG2zEsSI/?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>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>"If I could've kept going, I would've," said Turner, adding he hopes the strain is milder than the one that caused him to miss six weeks in 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old infielder entered Sunday leading the National League in fWAR (6.5). He was 1-for-4 with a home run before exiting the game.</p><p>The first-place Phillies are already without ace starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2917" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2917">Zack Wheeler</a>, who will miss the remainder of the season after having surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome.</p><p> </p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 01: Trea Turner #7 of the Philadelphia Phillies runs toward first base against the Milwaukee Brewers in the third inning at American Family Field on September 01, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32326642/related

Phillies' Turner going for tests after straining hamstring

New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge is confident in his ability to play right field despite appe...

<p>New York Yankees captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a> is confident in his ability to play right field despite appearing hesitant to throw during Friday's 7-1 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays.</p><p>Judge, who was making his first start in the outfield since July 25 due to a flexor strain in his right elbow, gently lobbed a ball back to the cutoff man in the first inning instead of trying to get Toronto's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9524" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9524">Daulton Varsho</a> at home plate.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here's a look at Aaron Judge's first throw in a game since late July: <a href="https://t.co/5TuwjTls57">pic.twitter.com/5TuwjTls57</a></p>— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) <a href="https://twitter.com/BryanHoch/status/1964109218555777436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"I wouldn't be in the outfield if I wasn't able to make that throw," Judge said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1964158745996374202">Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He added: "My first thought was to get it in to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz (Chisholm Jr.)</a>, get it in to whoever, just for them to make that throw. Because my first thought was trying to make the play, and (the ball) just kind of died before it got to me. So, my next thought is, 'Hey, try to get it in as soon as you can and see what happens.'"</p><p>Yankees manager Aaron Boone was also questioned about Judge's throw.</p><p>"He's in position to make the throw," Boone <a href="https://x.com/GaryHPhillips/status/1964155977940222034">said</a>.</p><p>Pressed further, Boone responded: "We're handling it how we handle it, okay?"</p><p>Boone said before the contest that Judge and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1388" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1388">Giancarlo Stanton</a> will split time in the outfield moving forward.</p><p>The skipper acknowledged in mid-August that Judge is unlikely to throw like he "normally does" for rest of the year. However, the two-time AL MVP seemed to take issue with the comment at the time, responding that he didn't know why Boone would say that. Boone subsequently walked back the initial remark.</p><p>The Yankees and Blue Jays will continue their pivotal three-game series Saturday. Toronto has a four-game lead for top spot in the AL East.</p>

BRONX, NY - SEPTEMBER 05: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees in right field during the fifth inning of the game against the Toronto Blue Jays on September 5, 2025 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32295234/related

Judge downplays injury concern after soft throw vs. Blue Jays

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A federal judge on Wednesday denied two teams — one owned by NBA Hall of F...

<div>
<p>CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A federal judge on Wednesday denied two teams — one owned by NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan — a preliminary injunction in their antitrust suit against NASCAR to be recognized as chartered teams for the remainder of the season. </p>
<p>Judge Kenneth Bell of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina said there was no reason to issue 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports the injunction because <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-lawsuit-charters-jordan-playoffs-8364f8bde0a15a7b9792b2f49f6905da">NASCAR last Friday vowed not to sell the six charters</a> the teams previously held until the end of the legal battle. </p>
<p>Bell has repeatedly said he doesn't want to rule on the likelihood of one side prevailing over the other, and reiterated that Wednesday. </p>
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
<p>“As the Court noted at the hearing on this motion, the Court believes that it is best not to provide its forecast of the Plaintiffs' likelihood of success on the merits, and thereby potentially bias the jury pool, unless it is necessary to do so, which is not here,” Bell wrote.</p>
<p>He also cautioned on what the landscape of NASCAR may look like if the case is not settled before trial.</p>
<p>“The uncertainty about what the 2026 season will look like unfortunately exists not just for the Parties, but for the other teams, drivers, crews, sponsors, broadcasters, and most regrettably, the fans,” he wrote.</p>
<p>NASCAR in a statement said the ruling "brings much-needed clarity to the remainder of the 2025 NASCAR season. </p>
<p>“For nearly 80 years, NASCAR and the France family have championed a bold vision by taking many personal and financial risks to build a sport that fuels livelihoods, inspires generations, and delivers world-class competition,” NASCAR said. "That commitment remains unwavering, and we will continue to defend the integrity of NASCAR and preserve the values that have guided its growth.</p>
<p>"To the fans: We won’t let this lawsuit distract from what matters most — delivering the unforgettable moments you’ve come to expect from our great sport and crowning the next NASCAR Cup Series champion on November 2.”</p>
<p>Trial is set for Dec. 1. </p>
<p>“With trial in this matter now less than three months away and the season on its proverbial last laps, NASCAR has agreed to extend those representations, in material effect,” Bell wrote in denying the motion for a preliminary injunction. </p>
<p>“This will effectively maintain the status quo pending a final decision on the merits and any permanent injunctive relief following trial (that is, Plaintiffs will be able to race and disputed Charters will not be sold or otherwise transferred.”</p>
<p>Jeffrey Kessler, attorney for the teams suing NASCAR, wasn't necessarily disappointed by the ruling. </p>
<p>“We are grateful that Judge Bell has made clear that the status quo is being maintained — protecting my clients’ rights to regain their charters if they prevail at trial and ensuring their ability to continue racing through the 2025 season based on NASCAR’s commitments," Kessler said. "Equally important, Judge Bell reaffirmed his broad power to order meaningful changes in NASCAR should we succeed, so that teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans can benefit from a sport positioned for long-term growth and restored competition. </p>
<p>"We are ready to present our case at trial in December.”</p>
<p>23XI Racing, the team owned by Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports, owned by entrepreneur Bob Jenkins, are suing NASCAR over antitrust claims regarding the charter system. A charter is the equivalent of a franchise and guarantees chartered cars both a spot in the 40-car field each week, as well as a significantly larger chunk of payouts.</p>
<p>NASCAR last September, after more than two years of contentious negotiations, presented teams with its final offer on charter extensions; 13 organization signed the agreements, but 23XI and Front Row refused.</p>
<p>The two teams initially won a preliminary injunction to be recognized as chartered for this season until a jury verdict on the antitrust allegations. That was overturned, and 23XI and FRM are currently competing as “open” teams. NASCAR wants the money back the teams were paid during the portion of the season they were chartered.</p>
<p>The teams also have appealed to have the chartered status reinstated, but NASCAR argued in court last week it has an interested buyer for one of the six charters previously held by 23XI and FRM, and it plans to immediately begin redistributing the charters. NASCAR backtracked after Thursday’s hearing, and a ruling on the preliminary injunction is expected to come from Bell this week.</p>
<p>NASCAR maintains that in holding off on redistributing charters, 23XI and FRM are no longer in danger of suffering irreparable harm. The teams countered Tuesday <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-antitrust-lawsuit-charters-jordan-23xi-3d271a1b1e013f5f1605f682f4b8aef4">the threat still exists “because of the risk of breach claims from their irreplaceable drivers and loss of sponsors in the absence of charter rights.”</a></p>
<p>Tyler Reddick of 23XI has a clause in his contract that says the team would be in breach if his Toyota is not chartered. Jeffrey Kessler, the attorney for the two teams, indicated in court that Reddick has notified 23XI it is in breach.</p>
<p>Bell wrote in his Wednesday decision that “the loss of the ‘fixed’ Charter payouts and the uncertainty of ongoing relationships with drivers and sponsors can either be compensated with money damages at trial or is simply inherent in the risks associated with the lawsuit.”</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a></p>
</div>

DARLINGTON, SC - AUGUST 31: 23Xi co-owner Michael Jordan stands in the pit box during the running of the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out Southern 500 on August 31, 2025 at Darlington Raceway in Darlington S.C.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32270550/related

Judge denies injunction for Michael Jordan's race team in antitrust case

San Francisco Giants third baseman Matt Chapman received a one-game suspension for his role in Tu...

<p>San Francisco Giants third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5380" href="/mlb/players/5380">Matt Chapman</a> received a one-game suspension for his role in Tuesday's benches-clearing altercation with the Colorado Rockies, MLB announced Wednesday.</p><p>Chapman was also fined an undisclosed amount. The 32-year-old is appealing his punishment.</p><p>Chapman's teammates <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4784" href="/mlb/players/4784">Willy Adames</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> were fined as well. Rockies left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4762" href="/mlb/players/4762">Kyle Freeland</a> was the only Rockies player given a fine.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Devers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3337228" href="https://thescore.com/news/3337228">sparked the brawl</a> by admiring a long home run before getting into a heated verbal exchange with Freeland, who said postgame that Chapman, Adames, and Devers shoved the pitcher.</p><p>Freeland called Devers' reaction to the homer "pure disrespect."</p><p>Meanwhile, Giants ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10606">Logan Webb</a> said he's surprised Freeland hasn't been involved in a tussle before because he "runs his mouth a lot."</p><p>The Giants and Rockies conclude their three-game series Wednesday.</p>

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 2: The San Francisco Giants and Colorado Rockies fight on the field after a verbal altercation between Kyle Freeland #21 of the Colorado Rockies and Rafael Devers #16 of the San Francisco Giants after Devers hit a two run home run in the first inning at Coors Field on September 2, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32269971/related

Giants' Chapman gets 1-game ban for brawl with Rockies

Houston Astros left-hander Framber Valdez said he didn't hit catcher César Salazar on purpose wit...

<p>Houston Astros left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8938" href="/mlb/players/8938">Framber Valdez</a> said he didn't hit catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14052" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14052">César Salazar</a> on purpose with a pitch when the batterymates got crossed up in the fifth inning of Tuesday's 7-1 loss to the New York Yankees.</p><p>The incident came two pitches after Salazar signalled Valdez to step off the mound, which the southpaw ignored. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8203" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8203">Trent Grisham</a> wound up hitting that offering for a grand slam.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Framber Valdez did not step off the mound when César Salazar motioned for him to moments before Trent Grisham’s grand slam.<br><br>Framber Valdez and César Salazar then got crossed up two pitches after the grand slam.<br><br>🎥: Space City Home Network <a href="https://t.co/GqUOdxm59k">pic.twitter.com/GqUOdxm59k</a></p>— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBONFOX/status/1963084458002940333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It was a pitch I wanted to throw," Valdez said postgame through an interpreter, according to <a href="https://x.com/KPRC2RandyMc/status/1963092593568252319">Randy McIlvoy of KPRC 2 Houston</a>. "I called for that pitch. ... I wasn't able to locate it. Then afterwards, what happened to us is we just got crossed up. ... When we went to the dugout, I said sorry to him and I take full responsibility for that."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Valdez also added "it was not intentional."</p><p>Valdez and Salazar were pulled into manager Joe Espada's office to discuss the play, according to <a href="https://x.com/Chandler_Rome/status/1963086621223346641">Chandler Rome of The Athletic</a>.</p><p>Salazar, meanwhile, said the issue was caused by a PitchCom error.</p><p>"Heat of the moment," Salazar told reporters. "Obviously it was a big spot for the Yankees, the stadium was loud. I thought I pressed the (right) button but I pressed the wrong button. I was expecting another pitch. But that wasn't it. But I pressed the wrong button, and yeah. That's what it was."</p><p>Salazar, who's made 14 career starts in the majors as a catcher, doesn't believe Valdez threw at him intentionally.</p><p>"Me and Framber actually have a really good relationship," the 29-year-old added. "We talked, we've been talking for, mainly for three years now, especially ... last year we talked a lot too, and we have a really good relationship."</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 02: Framber Valdez #59 of the Houston Astros waves at the crowd after the third inning against the New York Yankees at Daikin Park on September 02, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Astros' Valdez, Salazar downplay strange cross-up

San Francisco Giants first baseman Rafael Devers sparked a benches-clearing fracas with a home ru...

<p>San Francisco Giants first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5400" href="/mlb/players/5400">Rafael Devers</a> sparked a benches-clearing fracas with a home run during the first inning of Tuesday's 7-4 win against the Colorado Rockies.</p><p>Devers and Rockies left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4762" href="/mlb/players/4762">Kyle Freeland</a> engaged in a heated verbal exchange after the slugger admired the long blast, leading players from both teams to rush the field.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Something you don't see every day in the Giants vs. Rockies game. <br><br>Rafael Devers hits a home run off of Kyle Freeland. Freeland yells at Devers for staring at the home run and the benches cleared as Devers was running the bases. <br><br>Dave Flemming and Javier Lopez had the call. <a href="https://t.co/wn6JudUYTE">pic.twitter.com/wn6JudUYTE</a></p>— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) <a href="https://twitter.com/awfulannouncing/status/1963042028138160472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Freeland, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5380" href="/mlb/players/5380">Matt Chapman</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4784" href="/mlb/players/4784">Willy Adames</a> were ejected because of the tussle.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Devers, meanwhile, remained in the game to play third base. </p><p>Following the game, Giants righty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10606" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10606">Logan Webb</a> was asked about the general feeling of the brawl and took a shot at Rockies starter Freeland.</p><p>"(I'm) surprised it hasn't happened before with that guy," Webb said. "Just kind of runs his mouth a lot of times and (Devers) got him good."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Surprised it hasn't happened before with that guy. Just kind of runs his mouth ..."<br><br>Logan Webb reacts to tonight's altercation involving Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland <a href="https://t.co/VUEfq1lhJK">pic.twitter.com/VUEfq1lhJK</a></p>— SF Giants on NBCS (@NBCSGiants) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSGiants/status/1963090835953877053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Freeland said he was upset by Devers' reaction to the long ball.</p><p>"It was the pure disrespect of a first inning, home run - standing there watching it. It felt like it took 15 seconds for him to get to first base," Freeland said, according to <a href="https://x.com/susanslusser/status/1963102616269017358">Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle</a>.</p><p>The pitcher added that he believes Chapman and Adames were ejected for shoving him, and that Devers was also physical during the altercation.</p><p>Devers' homer marked the 16th straight contest the Giants hit a round-tripper, which tied a San Francisco-era team record set in 1962 and 1963.</p><p>The Giants and Rockies conclude their three-game series Wednesday.</p>

DENVER, CO - SEPTEMBER 2: Rafael Devers #16 and Manager Bob Melvin of the San Francisco Giants stand on the field during an altercation with the Colorado Rockies after Starting pitcher Kyle Freeland #21 of the Colorado Rockies took exception with Devers following a two-run home run by Devers in the first inning at Coors Field on September 2, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Devers' HR ignites brawl between Giants, Rockies

The final month of the 2025 MLB season is upon us and the American League MVP race is far from se...

<p>The final month of the 2025 MLB season is upon us and the American League MVP race is far from settled. In one corner, we have New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge searching for his third AL MVP. In the other, it's Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh, who's never finished in the top 10 of voting.</p><p>The <a href="https://thescore.bet/sport/baseball/organization/united-states/competition/mlb/section/player-awards">betting odds</a> are tight. Judge, who seemed like a slam dunk at the All-Star break, is the favorite at -240. Meanwhile, Raleigh sits at +170 amid an unprecedented offensive campaign for a catcher.</p><p>The margins should be razor-thin. Are we heading toward the first tie in MVP voting since Willie Stargell and Keith Hernandez shared the NL honor back in 1979? Let's break down the race.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Who has the better bat? 💪</h3><p>Judge is having another otherworldly offensive season. The 33-year-old leads the majors in batting average (.324), on-base percentage (.443), slugging percentage (.674), OPS (1.117),<strong> </strong>wRC+ (196), and fWAR (7.9). He's also scored an AL-high 110 runs and leads that league with 97 walks.<strong> </strong>Judge missed some time due to a flexor strain and fell behind Raleigh in the homer chase as a result, but he's still projected to record 50-plus long balls in back-to-back seasons and for the fourth time in his 10-year career.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799624/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.55.47_AM.jpg?ts=1756738591" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799624/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.55.47_AM.jpg?ts=1756738591 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799624/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.55.47_AM.jpg?ts=1756738591 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799624/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.55.47_AM.jpg?ts=1756738591 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799624/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.55.47_AM.jpg?ts=1756738591 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799624/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.55.47_AM.jpg?ts=1756738591 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>What Raleigh is doing with his lumber as a backstop has never been seen before. The 28-year-old is the first catcher with a 50-homer season after breaking the single-season record of 48 round-trippers by a primary catcher (Salvador Perez, 2021). Raleigh's nine multi-homer games<strong> </strong>in 2025 also represent a new franchise mark for the Mariners after passing some guy named Ken Griffey Jr.<strong> </strong>Raleigh needs five more blasts<strong> </strong>to topple Mickey Mantle's record 54 long balls by a switch-hitter in a single season. The catcher is also on pace to make a serious run at Judge's AL record of 62 homers from 2022, which would be the ultimate statement in the MVP race.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799625/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.56.52_AM.jpg?ts=1756738642" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799625/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.56.52_AM.jpg?ts=1756738642 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799625/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.56.52_AM.jpg?ts=1756738642 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799625/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.56.52_AM.jpg?ts=1756738642 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799625/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.56.52_AM.jpg?ts=1756738642 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/799625/Screenshot_2025-09-01_at_10.56.52_AM.jpg?ts=1756738642 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><em><strong>Edge: </strong></em>Judge gets the nod because of his superior slash line, but Raleigh's historic season is hard to ignore. 🧑‍⚖️</p><h3>Who's better defensively? 🧤</h3><p>Judge is a solid right fielder, but it remains unclear if he'll return to the outfield this year following the injury to his throwing arm. He continues to prepare to play in the field again, but even his own manager, Aaron Boone, questioned whether the superstar would be able to throw again normally in 2025. Judge disputed the skipper's assessment, but the uncertainty still lingers. This impacts the MVP race because Judge's value decreases if he can only play as a designated hitter.</p><p>This is where Raleigh has a big advantage. The 2024 Platinum Glove and Gold Glove winner has a 12.9 defensive rating compared to Judge's minus-3.1 mark, according to FanGraphs. He also does a great job of controlling the running game, sitting in the top third in baseball in<strong> </strong>caught stealing above average. Raleigh's massive power numbers make it easy to forget he plays the most physically demanding position in baseball. He's already logged 103 games behind the plate this season and has made 481 appearances as a catcher since 2022.<strong> </strong>In addition, he needs to mentally prepare and execute a game plan with a pitcher - which he clearly does well, due to his elite framing.</p><p><em><strong>Edge: </strong></em>Raleigh is the clear winner here. 🔱</p><h3>Does team impact matter? 🤔</h3><p>There have been plenty of MVP winners from bad teams, but the individual's performance usually has to be head and shoulders above their peers to overshadow the collective's poor results. This isn't the case in 2025. So who wins the award could depend on how the Yankees and Mariners fare down the stretch. Both clubs currently sit in a wild-card position. However, should one team somehow miss the postseason, it could open up a tiny crack for the other MVP candidate. Alternatively, if New York (three games out of the AL East lead) or Seattle (two games out of the AL West lead) ends up winning a division title, that could be the difference.</p><p><em><strong>Edge: </strong></em>Too close to call. <em><strong>🤏</strong></em></p><h3>Time to vote ✍️</h3><p>The 2025 AL MVP is ... still up for major debate. Who do you think will win? Cast your vote below!</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="640px" height="850px" src="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=lKd39brCKkKoDREoACTP-dM0TzQGPaRKoF_DSHYHIhdUNjg3NDk0Q05RR0pHSkNUM0kzR08zR09LRy4u&amp;embed=true" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" style="border: none; max-width:100%; max-height:100vh" allowfullscreen="" webkitallowfullscreen="" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen=""> </iframe></figure><blockquote><p><a href="https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=lKd39brCKkKoDREoACTP-dM0TzQGPaRKoF_DSHYHIhdUNjg3NDk0Q05RR0pHSkNUM0kzR08zR09LRy4u"><em>Click here to vote in our poll.</em></a></p></blockquote>

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Judge or Raleigh: Who's got the edge in AL MVP race?

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts isn't starting Teoscar Hernández for Sunday's series fin...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts isn't starting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> for Sunday's series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks due to the outfielder's recent hitting slump.</p><p>"Clearly he hasn't handled right-handed pitching," Roberts said pregame, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabianArdaya/status/1962227689085091890">Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic</a>. "I think that a two-day reset could help. He's an everyday guy, but I do think that's where we're at. You've got to perform too."</p><p>Hernández won't play Monday either, as the Dodgers are off before starting a series against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old is slashing .211/.237/.433 with five homers, three walks, and 30 strikeouts over 24 games in August.</p><p>Roberts also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3327582" href="https://thescore.com/news/3327582">called out</a> Hernández on Aug. 19 for his defense in a loss to the MLB-worst Colorado Rockies.</p><p>Hernández has gone deep 21 times with 77 RBIs and a .732 OPS across 112 games this season. The 2024 All-Star signed a three-year, $66-million contract in the offseason after playing a key role in helping the Dodgers win the World Series.</p>

MIAMI, FL - MAY 05: Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández (37) takes the field before the game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Miami Marlins on Tuesday, ay 5, 2025 at LoanDepot Park in Miami, FL.

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Dodgers bench struggling Hernández for '2-day reset'

The Chicago Cubs added veteran reinforcements for the stretch run.  The Cubs signed veteran first...

<p>The Chicago Cubs added veteran reinforcements for the stretch run.</p><p>The Cubs signed veteran first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1370" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1370">Carlos Santana</a> to a contract for the rest of the season, and claimed right-hander Aaron Civale off waivers from the Chicago White Sox, they announced.</p><p>The Cleveland Guardians released Santana on Thursday after his third stint with the club over a 16-year career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 39-year-old has gone deep 11 times with 52 RBIs and a substandard .650 OPS over 116 games this year. However, he was productive in 2024 with the Minnesota Twins, recording 23 homers, 71 RBIs, and a .749 OPS across 150 contests to go along with his first Gold Glove.</p><p>Santana will likely be a bench piece for the Cubs, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12484" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12484">Michael Busch</a> manning first. The former can also be used as a designated hitter.</p><p>Civale, meanwhile, owns a 5.26 ERA with 1.37 WHIP and 7.5 K/9 over a combined 89 innings (18 starts) between the White Sox and Milwaukee Brewers in 2025.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - JULY 21: Carlos Santana #41 of the Cleveland Guardians runs to first base during the game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on Monday, July 21, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Cubs sign Santana for rest of season, add Civale off waivers

The Toronto Blue Jays claimed utility man Isiah Kiner-Falefa off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pira...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays claimed utility man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4693" href="/mlb/players/4693">Isiah Kiner-Falefa</a> off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates, the clubs announced Sunday.</p><p>The Blue Jays traded Kiner-Falefa to the Pirates at last year's trade deadline for infield prospect Charles McAdoo.</p><p>The 30-year-old Kiner-Falefa will be eligible for the playoffs because he'll join the Blue Jays before Sept. 1.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kiner-Falefa has slashed .264/.300/.332 with one homer, 35 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases over 119 games this season. However, he put up the best offensive numbers of his eight-year career in 2024 with Toronto, recording seven long balls with a .758 OPS across 83 contests.</p><p>The 2020 Gold Glover is also in the 69th percentile for outs above average.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 27: Isiah Kiner-Falefa #7 of the Pittsburgh Pirates throws to first in the seventh inning during the game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Friday, September 27, 2024 in New York, New York.

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Blue Jays add Kiner-Falefa off waivers from Pirates

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Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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