1 day ago
The MLS has become a hot spot for ageing soccer stars who have previously impressed in Europe.
Of course, the biggest name to ever make the switch from Europe to the MLS is Lionel Messi, who is still on the books of Inter Miami.
The David Beckham-backed side have enjoyed much success with the likes of Messi and Luis Suarez in their squad.
Now, former Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah could be closing in on a move to North America.
Photo by Ed Sykes/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
#beckham
Of course, the biggest name to ever make the switch from Europe to the MLS is Lionel Messi, who is still on the books of Inter Miami.
The David Beckham-backed side have enjoyed much success with the likes of Messi and Luis Suarez in their squad.
Now, former Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah could be closing in on a move to North America.
Photo by Ed Sykes/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images
#beckham
1 day ago
WEST SACRAMENTO — Instant reactions from the Red Sox' 4-2 win over the Athletics on Monday at Sutter Health Park:
1. Boston improved to 55-50 while the Athletics dropped to 44-62. The Red Sox are 18-3 in July and won their 10th straight game on the road. They are 23-4 since June 25.
2. Ceddanne Rafaela's first career grand slam and 11th homer this season put the Red Sox ahead 4-1 in the sixth inning. It was only Boston's second hit of the game. The All-Star center fielder connected on a slider from left-handed reliever José Suarez and belted it 382 feet, just clearing the left field wall.
3. Boston didn't record its first hit against A's starter Jack Perkins until Connor Wong doubled to lead off the sixth inning. Perkins retired the next two hitters, Masataka Yoshida and Anthony Seigler, on groundouts before walking Willson Contreras.
Suarez replaced Perkins with runners at the corners. He walked Wilyer Abreu to load the bases, then allowed Rafaela's grand slam.
#first #grand #slam #inning
1. Boston improved to 55-50 while the Athletics dropped to 44-62. The Red Sox are 18-3 in July and won their 10th straight game on the road. They are 23-4 since June 25.
2. Ceddanne Rafaela's first career grand slam and 11th homer this season put the Red Sox ahead 4-1 in the sixth inning. It was only Boston's second hit of the game. The All-Star center fielder connected on a slider from left-handed reliever José Suarez and belted it 382 feet, just clearing the left field wall.
3. Boston didn't record its first hit against A's starter Jack Perkins until Connor Wong doubled to lead off the sixth inning. Perkins retired the next two hitters, Masataka Yoshida and Anthony Seigler, on groundouts before walking Willson Contreras.
Suarez replaced Perkins with runners at the corners. He walked Wilyer Abreu to load the bases, then allowed Rafaela's grand slam.
#first #grand #slam #inning
1 day ago
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Ceddanne Rafaela hit his first major league grand slam and the Boston Red Sox beat the Athletics 4-2 after being held without a hit through five innings Monday night.
Connor Wong doubled leading off the sixth for the first hit against Athletics rookie starter Jack Perkins (2-6), who was pulled after walking Willson Contreras with two outs. José Suarez walked Wilyer Abreu to load the bases, setting the stage for Rafaela's 11th homer and a 4-1 lead.
Curtis Mead struck out looking his first time up in his Boston debut and then left after he was hit on the wrist by a pitch his second time up. The Red Sox acquired Mead from the Wasington Nationals on Saturday night for rookie pitcher Connelly Early.
Tyler Soderstrom extended his hitting streak to 10 games when he launched his 17th homer to give the Athletics a 1-0 lead two batters into the bottom of the first against Payton Tolle. Jonah Heim homered for the 10th time to cut it to 4-2 in the sixth.
Tolle (6-6) allowed two runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out seven and walked one to help the surging Red Sox (55-50) win for the 18th time in 20 games.
#athletics #boston #night #sixth
Connor Wong doubled leading off the sixth for the first hit against Athletics rookie starter Jack Perkins (2-6), who was pulled after walking Willson Contreras with two outs. José Suarez walked Wilyer Abreu to load the bases, setting the stage for Rafaela's 11th homer and a 4-1 lead.
Curtis Mead struck out looking his first time up in his Boston debut and then left after he was hit on the wrist by a pitch his second time up. The Red Sox acquired Mead from the Wasington Nationals on Saturday night for rookie pitcher Connelly Early.
Tyler Soderstrom extended his hitting streak to 10 games when he launched his 17th homer to give the Athletics a 1-0 lead two batters into the bottom of the first against Payton Tolle. Jonah Heim homered for the 10th time to cut it to 4-2 in the sixth.
Tolle (6-6) allowed two runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings. He struck out seven and walked one to help the surging Red Sox (55-50) win for the 18th time in 20 games.
#athletics #boston #night #sixth
6 days ago
BOSTON: Ranger Suárez of the Boston Red Sox poses for a photo at Fenway Park before a press conference announcing his contract agreement on Jan. 21, 2026. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)
The Boston Red Sox made it clear last winter that pitching would be the key to their 2026 season. Their pitching performance during a recent record 15-game winning streak proved the plan was prudent.
The Red Sox gave up only 32 runs during the streak, an average of 2.13 per game.
Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow was the architect of the blueprint. Even when his job appeared in jeopardy when the Red Sox tumbled into last place with a 2-8 start in April and stayed there, he remained confident that good pitching could turn it all around. He told Kaley Brown of Boston.com on June 26:
"We have to win a lot of baseball games and we don't have a ton of time to do it. I believe that we're capable of doing it. It's going to require more consistent play on the field. But I see no reason that with the pitching that we have and the consistency of the starting pitching, with the strength of the backend of the bullpen, we can't get ourselves in a position where we do win these games."
#game
The Boston Red Sox made it clear last winter that pitching would be the key to their 2026 season. Their pitching performance during a recent record 15-game winning streak proved the plan was prudent.
The Red Sox gave up only 32 runs during the streak, an average of 2.13 per game.
Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow was the architect of the blueprint. Even when his job appeared in jeopardy when the Red Sox tumbled into last place with a 2-8 start in April and stayed there, he remained confident that good pitching could turn it all around. He told Kaley Brown of Boston.com on June 26:
"We have to win a lot of baseball games and we don't have a ton of time to do it. I believe that we're capable of doing it. It's going to require more consistent play on the field. But I see no reason that with the pitching that we have and the consistency of the starting pitching, with the strength of the backend of the bullpen, we can't get ourselves in a position where we do win these games."
#game
6 days ago
Brayan Bello continues to thrive in relief as Red Sox face another roster decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
While the Boston Red Sox were unable to make franchise history last night, they were able to learn two good things: they're truly a playoff team when hot, and Brayan Bello is back.
Bello was great in his latest appearance, and has become a solid option for the Red Sox in his new role as a reliever.
© Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Due to Ranger Suarez being under the weather, the Red Sox opted to throw a bullpen game in the final game to break their franchise record for longest winning streak. They started Eduardo Rivera, who normally is a solid opener; then, he gave up four runs before even making it out of the first inning.
#solid #game #preferred #brian
While the Boston Red Sox were unable to make franchise history last night, they were able to learn two good things: they're truly a playoff team when hot, and Brayan Bello is back.
Bello was great in his latest appearance, and has become a solid option for the Red Sox in his new role as a reliever.
© Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Due to Ranger Suarez being under the weather, the Red Sox opted to throw a bullpen game in the final game to break their franchise record for longest winning streak. They started Eduardo Rivera, who normally is a solid opener; then, he gave up four runs before even making it out of the first inning.
#solid #game #preferred #brian
6 days ago
Garrett Crochet didn’t choose to come to Boston, but he did choose to stay here. After making just one start as a member of the Red Sox (on the road in Texas), Crochet signed a six-year contract extension to remain with the organization through at least 2030. He was a standout on the field in his first season with the team, and while he hasn’t been able to replicate that this season, he’s working to endear himself to the community by partnering with Sam Adams for the release of Crochet’s Pale Ale, which is on tap at bars, taprooms and restaurants in the New England area and available as part of the “Our City. Our Beer” variety pack.
“A big thing for me was ingraining myself in the Boston culture, and Sam Adams is really that to a T,” Crochet said.
He isn’t wrong. When the Scots descended upon Boston for the World Cup, they drank the Sam Adams Downtown Taproom out of Boston Lager. He’s also made a habit of dominating the Yankees. In four regular season starts, he’s posted a 3.29 ERA and a 36.8% strikeout rate, as well as 7.2 innings of one-run baseball in the postseason. I conducted the interview from a hotel room in Milwaukee while on a bachelor party, and joked that the bachelor was upset with Crochet for hurting his family team. Crochet apologized but quickly rescinded it upon learning that the bachelor is a Yankees fan.
Crochet hasn’t pitched since April, but the rotation has picked up the slack in his absence. That rotation is comprised largely of huge, left-handed pitchers. Each arm is different, but Payton Tolle, Connelly Early, Ranger Suarez, and Jake Bennett all come armed with a four-seam fastball, cutter/slider, and some kind of breaking ball. Crochet’s best utilized standing on the mound, but because of the similarities with his teammates, he’s able to contribute from the bench.
“There’s much more benefit to the eye test that goes on during a series,” Crochet said. “We’re playing three or four game series and it’s all lefties that we’re rolling out there, so it’s fun to watch … When a guy is in the middle of his start I’m not passing any information, you know, he went into today prepared ready to make the start and has all the information that he feels he needs to have success … if I think someone is really looking not good on the changeup, I think me and Tolle have a little bit more room to exploit [the changeup] given that other teams aren’t planning for it at all against us.”
#boston #adams #start #yankees
“A big thing for me was ingraining myself in the Boston culture, and Sam Adams is really that to a T,” Crochet said.
He isn’t wrong. When the Scots descended upon Boston for the World Cup, they drank the Sam Adams Downtown Taproom out of Boston Lager. He’s also made a habit of dominating the Yankees. In four regular season starts, he’s posted a 3.29 ERA and a 36.8% strikeout rate, as well as 7.2 innings of one-run baseball in the postseason. I conducted the interview from a hotel room in Milwaukee while on a bachelor party, and joked that the bachelor was upset with Crochet for hurting his family team. Crochet apologized but quickly rescinded it upon learning that the bachelor is a Yankees fan.
Crochet hasn’t pitched since April, but the rotation has picked up the slack in his absence. That rotation is comprised largely of huge, left-handed pitchers. Each arm is different, but Payton Tolle, Connelly Early, Ranger Suarez, and Jake Bennett all come armed with a four-seam fastball, cutter/slider, and some kind of breaking ball. Crochet’s best utilized standing on the mound, but because of the similarities with his teammates, he’s able to contribute from the bench.
“There’s much more benefit to the eye test that goes on during a series,” Crochet said. “We’re playing three or four game series and it’s all lefties that we’re rolling out there, so it’s fun to watch … When a guy is in the middle of his start I’m not passing any information, you know, he went into today prepared ready to make the start and has all the information that he feels he needs to have success … if I think someone is really looking not good on the changeup, I think me and Tolle have a little bit more room to exploit [the changeup] given that other teams aren’t planning for it at all against us.”
#boston #adams #start #yankees
6 days ago
Following Argentina’s heartbreaking World Cup final defeat, Lionel Messi is taking a mandatory rest period before making his return to Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi led Argentina to another historic World Cup final in 2026, taking his tally up to a remarkable eight goals and four ****** ists across seven games.
Argentina fell 1-0 to Spain in extra time, and to make matters worse for Messi, Kylian Mbappe surpassed him as the World Cup’s top goalscorer of all-time. Allbeit, it was in a dead rubber game against England.
Even without Lionel Messi following his World Cup run, Inter Miami kept their momentum rolling with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Chicago Fire. A brace from Luis Suarez and an 87th-minute winner by academy product Preston Plambeck secured Miami’s fifth straight win, spoiling Robert Lewandowski’s MLS debut.
Due to Argentina’s demanding run to the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi was granted an extended rest period by Inter Miami.
#World #Argentina #final #taking
Lionel Messi led Argentina to another historic World Cup final in 2026, taking his tally up to a remarkable eight goals and four ****** ists across seven games.
Argentina fell 1-0 to Spain in extra time, and to make matters worse for Messi, Kylian Mbappe surpassed him as the World Cup’s top goalscorer of all-time. Allbeit, it was in a dead rubber game against England.
Even without Lionel Messi following his World Cup run, Inter Miami kept their momentum rolling with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Chicago Fire. A brace from Luis Suarez and an 87th-minute winner by academy product Preston Plambeck secured Miami’s fifth straight win, spoiling Robert Lewandowski’s MLS debut.
Due to Argentina’s demanding run to the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi was granted an extended rest period by Inter Miami.
#World #Argentina #final #taking
6 days ago
Luis Suarez scored twice and Preston Plambeck grabbed a late winner as Inter Miami, without Lionel Messi, beat Chicago Fire 3-2 on Wednesday to spoil Robert Lewandowski's Major League Soccer debut.
Uruguayan veteran Suarez captained Miami with Messi and fellow Argentine Rodrigo de Paul missing four days after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final.
The 37-year-old Poland striker Lewandowski was making his MLS debut having signed from Barcelona after they were crowned Spanish champions.
Prolific goalscorer Lewandowski, who also starred for Bayern Munich from 2014-2022 and has more than 700 goals for club and country, started for Chicago and played 63 minutes.
But it was 20-year-old Plambeck, a product of Miami's youth system, who emerged as the unlikely hero, coming off the bench to score the 87th-minute winner.
#Miami #messi #luis
Uruguayan veteran Suarez captained Miami with Messi and fellow Argentine Rodrigo de Paul missing four days after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final.
The 37-year-old Poland striker Lewandowski was making his MLS debut having signed from Barcelona after they were crowned Spanish champions.
Prolific goalscorer Lewandowski, who also starred for Bayern Munich from 2014-2022 and has more than 700 goals for club and country, started for Chicago and played 63 minutes.
But it was 20-year-old Plambeck, a product of Miami's youth system, who emerged as the unlikely hero, coming off the bench to score the 87th-minute winner.
#Miami #messi #luis
6 days ago
MIAMI (AP) — Preston Plambeck scored his first career goal in MLS in the 87th minute, Luis Suárez scored two goals, and Inter Miami beat Chicago 3-2 on Wednesday night to spoil Robert Lewandowski's debut for the Fire.
Miami (10-2-4) has won five straight.
Suárez scored three goals, his first hat trick in MLS since 2024, in Miami's last game before the World Cup break, a 6-4 win over Philadelphia.
Suárez had his shot from the center of the area parried by goalkeeper Chris Brady but Plambeck slammed home the rebound.
The Fire took a 1-0 lead on an own goal by goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo in the 18th minute. Miami defender Ian Fray played slow, rolling ball to Ríos Novo, but the ball slipped through the goalkeeper's legs as he whiffed on an attempted first-touch pass.
#scored #plambeck #goal #goals
Miami (10-2-4) has won five straight.
Suárez scored three goals, his first hat trick in MLS since 2024, in Miami's last game before the World Cup break, a 6-4 win over Philadelphia.
Suárez had his shot from the center of the area parried by goalkeeper Chris Brady but Plambeck slammed home the rebound.
The Fire took a 1-0 lead on an own goal by goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo in the 18th minute. Miami defender Ian Fray played slow, rolling ball to Ríos Novo, but the ball slipped through the goalkeeper's legs as he whiffed on an attempted first-touch pass.
#scored #plambeck #goal #goals
7 days ago
Women's strawweight Fatima Kline extended her winning steak to four consecutive fights at UFC Oklahoma City. The 26 year-old dominated Tabatha Ricci in main card action at Paycom Arena and jumped into the Top 10 rankings.
With the win over "Baby Shark" and a new ranking, Kline has her eyes set on the top of the division. "The Archangel" wants to face former two-time ***** leholder Zhang Weili next.
"I think the perfect person to put me right in line to beat and to get a ***** le shot after would be Zhang Weili or Tatiana [Suarez]," Kline told MMAJunkie.com. "Virna [Jandiroba] already lost to the belt. I guess Tatiana did also lose to the belt, too. I think Weili would be the perfect person.
"I think it would be a great fight. I think people think I could beat everybody except for Weili. I kind of see that in the comments. ... And so I would love to prove people wrong with that one and I'd love to prove it to myself. If she decides she's coming back to 115, I'd love to welcome her back."
The win over Ricci was Kline's first fight of 2026 and would like to get back in there before the end of the year. She's fought five times in the octagon since her UFC debut in July 2024.
#love #back
With the win over "Baby Shark" and a new ranking, Kline has her eyes set on the top of the division. "The Archangel" wants to face former two-time ***** leholder Zhang Weili next.
"I think the perfect person to put me right in line to beat and to get a ***** le shot after would be Zhang Weili or Tatiana [Suarez]," Kline told MMAJunkie.com. "Virna [Jandiroba] already lost to the belt. I guess Tatiana did also lose to the belt, too. I think Weili would be the perfect person.
"I think it would be a great fight. I think people think I could beat everybody except for Weili. I kind of see that in the comments. ... And so I would love to prove people wrong with that one and I'd love to prove it to myself. If she decides she's coming back to 115, I'd love to welcome her back."
The win over Ricci was Kline's first fight of 2026 and would like to get back in there before the end of the year. She's fought five times in the octagon since her UFC debut in July 2024.
#love #back
8 days ago
Red Sox Make Reverse Ranger Suarez Pitching Decision for Orioles Game Tonight originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Ranger Suarez was scheduled to make his return from a groin injury and be the starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday night against the Baltimore Orioles.
About 1 p.m. ET, though, the Red Sox announced Suarez won't be making his scheduled start.
Instead, Eduardo Rivera will get the ball.
It doesn't sound like a major setback with Suarez, but instead just some caution.
#suarez #make #instead
Ranger Suarez was scheduled to make his return from a groin injury and be the starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday night against the Baltimore Orioles.
About 1 p.m. ET, though, the Red Sox announced Suarez won't be making his scheduled start.
Instead, Eduardo Rivera will get the ball.
It doesn't sound like a major setback with Suarez, but instead just some caution.
#suarez #make #instead
8 days ago
BOSTON — As the Red Sox try to match a franchise record by extending their winning streak to 15 victories on Tuesday, they’ll welcome one of their All-Stars back to the mound after a brief injured list stint.
Lefty Ranger Suarez will be activated from the IL to pitch Tuesday against the Orioles, interim manager Chad Tracy said after a 6-5 victory in which Caleb Durbin was the hero. The corresponding roster move is unknown. Suarez came out of a pregame workout — which included playing catch and doing some fielding drills on the mound — well enough to be activated.
Suarez last pitched July 5 in Anaheim, when he left after 2 ⅔ innings of a 7-5 Red Sox win with left adductor tightness. He tried to complete his between-starts work in hopes of feeling good enough to make his next start but three days later was placed on the IL. Because of the All-Star break, Suarez’s 15-day injured list stint meant he missed just one start, a game in which Eduardo Rivera started and the Red Sox beat the Mets on July 11.
BETTING: Red Sox moneyline is set at -136 on FanDuel for Tuesday night’s game versus the Orioles. Our complete FanDuel Sportsbook review provides an in-depth guide on how to use their app.
Rivera, who started Friday against Tampa Bay, is a candidate to be sent down to make room for Suarez on the active roster, as is righty Brayan Bello, who returned from a month-plus stint in Triple-A to pitch well on July 12 against the Mets but has been in limbo since. Between the majors and Triple-A, Bello has made just two appearances — a five-inning start for the WooSox on July 1 and his 4 ⅓ inning outing for the Red Sox in New York — since June 25.
#orioles #bello
Lefty Ranger Suarez will be activated from the IL to pitch Tuesday against the Orioles, interim manager Chad Tracy said after a 6-5 victory in which Caleb Durbin was the hero. The corresponding roster move is unknown. Suarez came out of a pregame workout — which included playing catch and doing some fielding drills on the mound — well enough to be activated.
Suarez last pitched July 5 in Anaheim, when he left after 2 ⅔ innings of a 7-5 Red Sox win with left adductor tightness. He tried to complete his between-starts work in hopes of feeling good enough to make his next start but three days later was placed on the IL. Because of the All-Star break, Suarez’s 15-day injured list stint meant he missed just one start, a game in which Eduardo Rivera started and the Red Sox beat the Mets on July 11.
BETTING: Red Sox moneyline is set at -136 on FanDuel for Tuesday night’s game versus the Orioles. Our complete FanDuel Sportsbook review provides an in-depth guide on how to use their app.
Rivera, who started Friday against Tampa Bay, is a candidate to be sent down to make room for Suarez on the active roster, as is righty Brayan Bello, who returned from a month-plus stint in Triple-A to pitch well on July 12 against the Mets but has been in limbo since. Between the majors and Triple-A, Bello has made just two appearances — a five-inning start for the WooSox on July 1 and his 4 ⅓ inning outing for the Red Sox in New York — since June 25.
#orioles #bello
14 days ago
Three members of the DSL White Sox squad have been named to the 2026 DSL All-Star Game: Ronald Cardoza (C), Yordany Marte (RHP), and Sebastian Romero (OF). Cardoza is hitting .316/.426/.607 with a 1.033 OPS while Romero owns a slash line of .289/.391/.608 with a .999 OPS. Marte is 0-2 with a 3.12 ERA and 1.37 WHIP. The three players will represent Chicago’s rookie affiliate at the game on Sunday, July 19.
ACL Angels 9, ACL White Sox 1
Not much to write home about in this one. The ACL White Sox (15-38) didn’t muster a run until the fifth, when Osniel Castillo laced a leadoff triple and rehabbing Billy Carlson followed with an RBI single to center. The Sox tacked on one more in the seventh while trailing 9-1 as Adam Fogel worked a two-out walk before Marcelo Ácala ripped an RBI double to left. Too little, too late, though. Reinder Gomez was the only hurler to hold the Halos scoreless, tossing one frame and allowing just one hit and striking out one. Giving up nine runs is rarely a winning formula, and the offense didn’t do the pitching staff any favors, going just 2-for-8 with runners in scoring position while leaving 10 on base.
DSL Cubs Blue 6, DSL White Sox 4
The DSL White Sox (11-20) gift-wrapped this one with three fielding blunders and a passed ball, leading to three unearned runs. The White Sox did showcase some offense, though, as Ronald Cardozo cracked a solo shot in the fourth, and then the bats tried to rally in the seventh. Jose Suarez launched a two-run bomb, Hector Hernandez legged out a triple, and Dionys Medina dribbled an RBI grounder to plate three tallies. Unfortunately, the damage was already done — too many mistakes and just not enough late-game magic.
ACL White Sox 4, ACL Padres 3 (July 13 — 7 innings)
The ACL Sox trailed 3-1 to the Padres, then finally put up a crooked number in the fifth. Landon Hodge and Adam Fogel, patient enough to draw back-to-back walks, set the table. Jose Mendoza knocked a single to pack the sacks. The Padres’ pitcher promptly lost the plot with a wild pitch, and Hodge scored. Marcelo Ácala froze for strike three, but another wild pitch let Fogel trot home. Alejandro Cruz hit an RBI single for the go-ahead. Fidel Montero took it from there with four shutout innings, allowing just one hit and one walk.
DSL White Sox 2, DSL Cubs 0 (July 14, suspended, bottom of the first)
The Sox took control early in the top of the second. Fernando Graterol drove in the first run with a sacrifice fly before Sebastian Romero added an RBI single. It was Romero’s 34th RBI of the season, tied for sixth-most in the DSL, and gave the Good Guys a 2-0 lead.
ACL Angels 9, ACL White Sox 1
Not much to write home about in this one. The ACL White Sox (15-38) didn’t muster a run until the fifth, when Osniel Castillo laced a leadoff triple and rehabbing Billy Carlson followed with an RBI single to center. The Sox tacked on one more in the seventh while trailing 9-1 as Adam Fogel worked a two-out walk before Marcelo Ácala ripped an RBI double to left. Too little, too late, though. Reinder Gomez was the only hurler to hold the Halos scoreless, tossing one frame and allowing just one hit and striking out one. Giving up nine runs is rarely a winning formula, and the offense didn’t do the pitching staff any favors, going just 2-for-8 with runners in scoring position while leaving 10 on base.
DSL Cubs Blue 6, DSL White Sox 4
The DSL White Sox (11-20) gift-wrapped this one with three fielding blunders and a passed ball, leading to three unearned runs. The White Sox did showcase some offense, though, as Ronald Cardozo cracked a solo shot in the fourth, and then the bats tried to rally in the seventh. Jose Suarez launched a two-run bomb, Hector Hernandez legged out a triple, and Dionys Medina dribbled an RBI grounder to plate three tallies. Unfortunately, the damage was already done — too many mistakes and just not enough late-game magic.
ACL White Sox 4, ACL Padres 3 (July 13 — 7 innings)
The ACL Sox trailed 3-1 to the Padres, then finally put up a crooked number in the fifth. Landon Hodge and Adam Fogel, patient enough to draw back-to-back walks, set the table. Jose Mendoza knocked a single to pack the sacks. The Padres’ pitcher promptly lost the plot with a wild pitch, and Hodge scored. Marcelo Ácala froze for strike three, but another wild pitch let Fogel trot home. Alejandro Cruz hit an RBI single for the go-ahead. Fidel Montero took it from there with four shutout innings, allowing just one hit and one walk.
DSL White Sox 2, DSL Cubs 0 (July 14, suspended, bottom of the first)
The Sox took control early in the top of the second. Fernando Graterol drove in the first run with a sacrifice fly before Sebastian Romero added an RBI single. It was Romero’s 34th RBI of the season, tied for sixth-most in the DSL, and gave the Good Guys a 2-0 lead.
15 days ago
MLB All-Star Game Score, Live Updates, Highlights From 2026 AL vs. NL Showdown originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Baseball's biggest stars will arrive at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday night for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game.
There is no shortage of stars who will take the field, from Philadelphia native Mike Trout (Angels) and Yordan Alvarez (Astros) for the American League to Juan Soto (Mets) and Freddie Freeman (Dodgers) for the National League.
Aroldis Chapman, Willson Contreras and Ceddanne Rafaela will represent the Red Sox in the Midsummer Classic, but starting pitcher Ranger Suarez will not be available to play. He was recently placed on the 15-day IL with a groin injury.
Follow along right here for live updates and highlights from the 2026 MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday night.
Baseball's biggest stars will arrive at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday night for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game.
There is no shortage of stars who will take the field, from Philadelphia native Mike Trout (Angels) and Yordan Alvarez (Astros) for the American League to Juan Soto (Mets) and Freddie Freeman (Dodgers) for the National League.
Aroldis Chapman, Willson Contreras and Ceddanne Rafaela will represent the Red Sox in the Midsummer Classic, but starting pitcher Ranger Suarez will not be available to play. He was recently placed on the 15-day IL with a groin injury.
Follow along right here for live updates and highlights from the 2026 MLB All-Star Game on Tuesday night.
15 days ago
It’s the Midsummer Classic tonight in Philadelphia, just a few weeks after America’s 250th birthday. Is that why it’s in Philadelphia? Who knows?
The Red Sox have several representatives this year, which is kind of crazy given how most of this season has gone. Ceddanne Rafaela, Willson Contreras, and Aroldis Chapman are representing the team tonight, while Ranger Suarez was also named an All-Star but isn’t participating due to injury. Is there anything you’d like to see? Personally, I think it would be funny if Willson Contreras was hit by a pitch in a way that doesn’t hurt him. Has a suspended player ever played in the All-Star Game? Ceddanne making a diving catch would be a nice way for him to introduce himself to a wider audience, too.
First pitch will be some time after 8 PM (who knows what kind of pregame stuff they have planned) on FOX.
Lineups:
The Red Sox have several representatives this year, which is kind of crazy given how most of this season has gone. Ceddanne Rafaela, Willson Contreras, and Aroldis Chapman are representing the team tonight, while Ranger Suarez was also named an All-Star but isn’t participating due to injury. Is there anything you’d like to see? Personally, I think it would be funny if Willson Contreras was hit by a pitch in a way that doesn’t hurt him. Has a suspended player ever played in the All-Star Game? Ceddanne making a diving catch would be a nice way for him to introduce himself to a wider audience, too.
First pitch will be some time after 8 PM (who knows what kind of pregame stuff they have planned) on FOX.
Lineups:
15 days ago
Reds predicted to trade 49 home run 2X All-Star originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Reds are firmly out of the postseason race.
Since the start of May, the NL Central club has gone 23-41. That doesn't exactly scream a team with playoff potential.
It would be in Cincinnati's best interest to dangle expiring contracts and a few of their better players on the trade market.
One of the position players who could switch teams for a second straight trade deadline is third baseman Eugenio Suarez.
The Cincinnati Reds are firmly out of the postseason race.
Since the start of May, the NL Central club has gone 23-41. That doesn't exactly scream a team with playoff potential.
It would be in Cincinnati's best interest to dangle expiring contracts and a few of their better players on the trade market.
One of the position players who could switch teams for a second straight trade deadline is third baseman Eugenio Suarez.
16 days ago
Jul. 13—History suggests that the Cincinnati Reds have work to do to avoid being sellers at the trade deadline on Aug. 3.
Entering the series finale against the Cubs on Sunday, July 11, the Reds were seven games under .500 (43-51). In 2024, the Reds were sellers at the trade deadline when they were five games under .500. In 2025, the Reds were buyers at the deadline when they were five games over .500.
If the Reds don't turn July into their best month of this season, they'll face some tough decisions.
And if the Reds end up being sellers, they have several interesting trade candidates.
Third baseman/DH Eugenio Suárez
Entering the series finale against the Cubs on Sunday, July 11, the Reds were seven games under .500 (43-51). In 2024, the Reds were sellers at the trade deadline when they were five games under .500. In 2025, the Reds were buyers at the deadline when they were five games over .500.
If the Reds don't turn July into their best month of this season, they'll face some tough decisions.
And if the Reds end up being sellers, they have several interesting trade candidates.
Third baseman/DH Eugenio Suárez
16 days ago
After not exactly lighting the world on fire in AAA, Brayan Bello nonetheless returned to the big leagues yesterday. And he shoved: 4.1 IP, 5 K, 2 H, 1 ER, 0 BB.
So the obvious question is: what now? The Red Sox do have room in the rotation — at least for now — with Ranger Suárez and Connelly Early on the IL. Moreover, as we saw in yesterday’s stunted start, the team is going to attempt to limit the workload of Payton Tolle in his first full season. Yet it must be said that Bello once again came out of the bullpen yesterday, and has not yet proven that he can be as effective in a starting role this year.
So what comes next for Bello? Is he thrown back into the rotation? Does he go in on a piggybacking timeshare with Tolle for the time being?
Use this ****** e to talk about whatever you want. Be good to each other and go Sox.
So the obvious question is: what now? The Red Sox do have room in the rotation — at least for now — with Ranger Suárez and Connelly Early on the IL. Moreover, as we saw in yesterday’s stunted start, the team is going to attempt to limit the workload of Payton Tolle in his first full season. Yet it must be said that Bello once again came out of the bullpen yesterday, and has not yet proven that he can be as effective in a starting role this year.
So what comes next for Bello? Is he thrown back into the rotation? Does he go in on a piggybacking timeshare with Tolle for the time being?
Use this ****** e to talk about whatever you want. Be good to each other and go Sox.
16 days ago
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season has produced repeat winners, first-time winners, road course specialists, superspeedway surprises, and dramatic late-race battles. Tyler Reddick has emerged as the season's winningest driver through the opening 20 races, while drivers like Denny Hamlin, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, Ty Gibbs, Shane van Gisbergen, Carson Hocevar, and Daniel Suárez have all added victories of their own.
Here's a complete look at every Cup Series winner so far in 2026.
Winner: Tyler Reddick (Toyota)
Reddick opened the season with the biggest victory in NASCAR, winning the Daytona 500 after starting 26th. He led just one lap, but it was the only one that mattered as he edged Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at the finish.
Started: 26th
Here's a complete look at every Cup Series winner so far in 2026.
Winner: Tyler Reddick (Toyota)
Reddick opened the season with the biggest victory in NASCAR, winning the Daytona 500 after starting 26th. He led just one lap, but it was the only one that mattered as he edged Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at the finish.
Started: 26th
17 days ago
The 2026 MLB Draft is underway and the Boston Red Sox have three picks on Day 1.
Boston has 19 picks this year, including No. 20 in the first round and No. 67 overall. The Red Sox acquired the 67th pick, which is a Competitive Balance Round B selection, from the Brewers on Feb. 9 in a six-player trade. In that deal, Boston acquired Caleb Durbin, Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio for Kyle Harrison, David Hamilton and Shane Drohan.
Boston does not have a second-round pick or a fourth-round pick. The Sox forfeited those two selections when they signed qualified free agent Ranger Suarez to a five-year, $130 million contract in January.
MassLive will be tracking all of the Red Sox' picks on July 11 and 12:
ROUND 1 (No. 20 overall): Jake Schaffner, SS, University of North Carolina
Boston has 19 picks this year, including No. 20 in the first round and No. 67 overall. The Red Sox acquired the 67th pick, which is a Competitive Balance Round B selection, from the Brewers on Feb. 9 in a six-player trade. In that deal, Boston acquired Caleb Durbin, Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio for Kyle Harrison, David Hamilton and Shane Drohan.
Boston does not have a second-round pick or a fourth-round pick. The Sox forfeited those two selections when they signed qualified free agent Ranger Suarez to a five-year, $130 million contract in January.
MassLive will be tracking all of the Red Sox' picks on July 11 and 12:
ROUND 1 (No. 20 overall): Jake Schaffner, SS, University of North Carolina
17 days ago
The 2026 MLB Draft is underway and the Boston Red Sox have three picks on Day 1.
Boston has 19 picks this year, including No. 20 in the first round and No. 67 overall. The Red Sox acquired the 67th pick, which is a Competitive Balance Round B selection, from the Brewers on Feb. 9 in a six-player trade. In that deal, Boston acquired Caleb Durbin, Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio for Kyle Harrison, David Hamilton and Shane Drohan.
Boston does not have a second-round pick or a fourth-round pick. The Sox forfeited those two selections when they signed qualified free agent Ranger Suarez to a five-year, $130 million contract in January.
MassLive will be tracking all of the Red Sox' picks on July 11 and 12:
ROUND 1 (No. 20 overall): Jake Schaffner, SS, University of North Carolina
Boston has 19 picks this year, including No. 20 in the first round and No. 67 overall. The Red Sox acquired the 67th pick, which is a Competitive Balance Round B selection, from the Brewers on Feb. 9 in a six-player trade. In that deal, Boston acquired Caleb Durbin, Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio for Kyle Harrison, David Hamilton and Shane Drohan.
Boston does not have a second-round pick or a fourth-round pick. The Sox forfeited those two selections when they signed qualified free agent Ranger Suarez to a five-year, $130 million contract in January.
MassLive will be tracking all of the Red Sox' picks on July 11 and 12:
ROUND 1 (No. 20 overall): Jake Schaffner, SS, University of North Carolina
17 days ago
Even though Spain have done well to reach the semifinals of this World Cup, beating the likes of Austria, Portugal, and Belgium in the process, it has not been a particularly impressive World Cup for Pedri.
The midfielder has faced criticism for his performances. Although he has been consistent as ever with his passing and movement, the creative output hasn’t been there, with Luis de la Fuente notably benching him in favour of Fabian Ruiz against Belgium.
Mario Suarez has backed Pedri amid criticism. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
In the midst of this criticism, Pedri has found support from former Atletico Madrid midfielder Mario Suarez, who made no attempt to hide his admiration for the Barcelona star.
“I have a soft spot for Pedri; to me, he’s the best midfielder in the world,” Suarez said (h/t Jijantes).
The midfielder has faced criticism for his performances. Although he has been consistent as ever with his passing and movement, the creative output hasn’t been there, with Luis de la Fuente notably benching him in favour of Fabian Ruiz against Belgium.
Mario Suarez has backed Pedri amid criticism. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
In the midst of this criticism, Pedri has found support from former Atletico Madrid midfielder Mario Suarez, who made no attempt to hide his admiration for the Barcelona star.
“I have a soft spot for Pedri; to me, he’s the best midfielder in the world,” Suarez said (h/t Jijantes).
18 days ago
The Mets were shut out by the Boston Red Sox on Saturday, losing by a score of 4-0.
-- Facing rookie pitcher Eduardo Rivera, who was making his first career start and just second career appearance in the majors – his first coming on April 22 against the Yankees, the Mets’ offense was befuddled all day.
Against Rivera, recalled from Triple-A before the game to start in place of the injured Ranger Suarez, New York mustered one hit during the lefty’s 3.2 innings. The brilliant Boston pitching didn’t stop there as four Red Sox relievers combined to pitch 5.1 scoreless innings while allowing just two hits.
-- The Mets had chances to score, though, mostly thanks to seven walks on the day. In the second, Carson Benge led off with a walk and stole second base but was left stranded. New York loaded the bases in the seventh following two walks sandwiched in between a single, but A.J. Ewing struck out looking to end the threat. An inning later, Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor had back-to-back walks but the Mets couldn’t score after a flyout and a double play.
-- Francisco Alvarez had two of New York’s three hits on the day, one of them an infield single in the fifth. Meanwhile, Brett Baty’s 10-game hitting streak came to an end after an 0-for-3 day, although he reached base safely with a walk.
-- Facing rookie pitcher Eduardo Rivera, who was making his first career start and just second career appearance in the majors – his first coming on April 22 against the Yankees, the Mets’ offense was befuddled all day.
Against Rivera, recalled from Triple-A before the game to start in place of the injured Ranger Suarez, New York mustered one hit during the lefty’s 3.2 innings. The brilliant Boston pitching didn’t stop there as four Red Sox relievers combined to pitch 5.1 scoreless innings while allowing just two hits.
-- The Mets had chances to score, though, mostly thanks to seven walks on the day. In the second, Carson Benge led off with a walk and stole second base but was left stranded. New York loaded the bases in the seventh following two walks sandwiched in between a single, but A.J. Ewing struck out looking to end the threat. An inning later, Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor had back-to-back walks but the Mets couldn’t score after a flyout and a double play.
-- Francisco Alvarez had two of New York’s three hits on the day, one of them an infield single in the fifth. Meanwhile, Brett Baty’s 10-game hitting streak came to an end after an 0-for-3 day, although he reached base safely with a walk.
18 days ago
The 2026 MLB Draft is underway and the Boston Red Sox have three picks on Day 1.
Boston has 19 picks this year, including No. 20 in the first round and No. 67 overall. The Red Sox acquired the 67th pick, which is a Competitive Balance Round B selection, from the Brewers on Feb. 9 in a six-player trade. In that deal, Boston acquired Caleb Durbin, Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio for Kyle Harrison, David Hamilton and Shane Drohan.
Boston does not have a second-round pick or a fourth-round pick. The Sox forfeited those two selections when they signed qualified free agent Ranger Suarez to a five-year, $130 million contract in January.
MassLive will be tracking all of the Red Sox’ picks on July 11 and 12:
ROUND 1 (No. 20 overall): Jake Schaffner, SS, University of North Carolina
Boston has 19 picks this year, including No. 20 in the first round and No. 67 overall. The Red Sox acquired the 67th pick, which is a Competitive Balance Round B selection, from the Brewers on Feb. 9 in a six-player trade. In that deal, Boston acquired Caleb Durbin, Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio for Kyle Harrison, David Hamilton and Shane Drohan.
Boston does not have a second-round pick or a fourth-round pick. The Sox forfeited those two selections when they signed qualified free agent Ranger Suarez to a five-year, $130 million contract in January.
MassLive will be tracking all of the Red Sox’ picks on July 11 and 12:
ROUND 1 (No. 20 overall): Jake Schaffner, SS, University of North Carolina
18 days ago
Reds $15 million slugger tabbed as 'buy low' trade target for 49 homer reason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Cincinnati Reds are not in the best of shape to make a postseason run this season, so it wouldn't be a huge surprise if they were trade deadline sellers.
While players like Elly De La Cruz, Chase Burns, and Hunter Greene won't be on the move, the Reds could look to move some of their impending free agents. One such player is a $15 million slugger who likely could be had for cheap.
Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report highlighted Eugenio Suarez, the Reds' $15 million free-agent signing, as a player teams could "buy low" on this summer thanks to a simple 49 home-run reason.
"Things haven't gone according to plan, as a left oblique strain cost Suarez a month and the Reds find themselves in last place in the NL Central..." Kelly writes. "... Sure, he's only hit nine home runs this season, but he clubbed 49 a year ago between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Mariners."
The Cincinnati Reds are not in the best of shape to make a postseason run this season, so it wouldn't be a huge surprise if they were trade deadline sellers.
While players like Elly De La Cruz, Chase Burns, and Hunter Greene won't be on the move, the Reds could look to move some of their impending free agents. One such player is a $15 million slugger who likely could be had for cheap.
Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report highlighted Eugenio Suarez, the Reds' $15 million free-agent signing, as a player teams could "buy low" on this summer thanks to a simple 49 home-run reason.
"Things haven't gone according to plan, as a left oblique strain cost Suarez a month and the Reds find themselves in last place in the NL Central..." Kelly writes. "... Sure, he's only hit nine home runs this season, but he clubbed 49 a year ago between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Mariners."
18 days ago
Offense was somewhat surprisingly at a premium last night in DC after the two-hour rain delay, as the Yankees couldn't do more than hit register two solo shots against the Nationals' Carson Palmquist/Zack Littell combo across the first seven innings. They weren't dominating by any stretch; it just felt like the Yanks weren't landing that key hit. So when Tim Hill coughed up back-to-back homers to Keibert Ruiz and James Wood to put the Nats ahead 3-2, there was a legitimate fear that Ryan Weathers' work would go to waste.
Thankfully, the Nats' weak relief pitching finally made a true appearance in the ninth. A few minutes later, the save was blown behind the bats of Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Austin Wells, two dudes who needed some big swings. Final score: 5-3, Yanks. Phew!
Here's what else was going on in some of the notable American League action yesterday. Note that we've shaken up the teams covered again for this final series of the first half, focusing solely on those presently in playoff position. As always, these are subject to change! It's just who's getting the shine at the moment.*
*Although I will note that all of the Blue Jays, Red Sox, Tigers, and Orioles won, moving the middle tier of the Wild Card race all up a game. Minnesota is one back of Seattle for the last Wild Card; Houston, Toronto, and surging Boston are 1.5 behind; Detroit is within 2.5 and Baltimore is three back. Oh, and none of these teams are over .500. What a jumbled mess.
It was a great Friday for Rays starter Nick Martinez, who was chosen as a replacement for Boston's Ranger Suárez on the All-Star roster and then went out and recorded a win over the Mariners. Named an All-Star for the first time at age-35, Martinez threw 5.1 innings, allowing two runs on four hits and a walk, giving up a homer to Cole Young and not much else. It wasn't as shiny as some of his early regular-season starts, but the W's all count the same.
Thankfully, the Nats' weak relief pitching finally made a true appearance in the ninth. A few minutes later, the save was blown behind the bats of Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Austin Wells, two dudes who needed some big swings. Final score: 5-3, Yanks. Phew!
Here's what else was going on in some of the notable American League action yesterday. Note that we've shaken up the teams covered again for this final series of the first half, focusing solely on those presently in playoff position. As always, these are subject to change! It's just who's getting the shine at the moment.*
*Although I will note that all of the Blue Jays, Red Sox, Tigers, and Orioles won, moving the middle tier of the Wild Card race all up a game. Minnesota is one back of Seattle for the last Wild Card; Houston, Toronto, and surging Boston are 1.5 behind; Detroit is within 2.5 and Baltimore is three back. Oh, and none of these teams are over .500. What a jumbled mess.
It was a great Friday for Rays starter Nick Martinez, who was chosen as a replacement for Boston's Ranger Suárez on the All-Star roster and then went out and recorded a win over the Mariners. Named an All-Star for the first time at age-35, Martinez threw 5.1 innings, allowing two runs on four hits and a walk, giving up a homer to Cole Young and not much else. It wasn't as shiny as some of his early regular-season starts, but the W's all count the same.
18 days ago
Fernando Torres is without doubt one of the best strikers to grace Liverpool with his presence in their recent history.
El Nino, as he was known, was one of the main reasons why the Reds were feared during that era with his £50 million transfer to Chelsea breaking the hearts of every single fan.
However, shortly after his exit, Luis Suarez entered the frame and filled the void left by the Spaniard more than well enough.
Admittedly, fans will have probably expected Alexander Isak to be their next big thing in attack but, after a season full of injuries, he still needs to prove his worth to the Reds' fanbase.
Indeed, Hugo Ekitike managed to fill the void before his injury as he contributed to 23 goals across all competitions, but, since he's out injured until who knows when, it's hardly surprising to think that Liverpool will want to bring in a new attacker or two.
El Nino, as he was known, was one of the main reasons why the Reds were feared during that era with his £50 million transfer to Chelsea breaking the hearts of every single fan.
However, shortly after his exit, Luis Suarez entered the frame and filled the void left by the Spaniard more than well enough.
Admittedly, fans will have probably expected Alexander Isak to be their next big thing in attack but, after a season full of injuries, he still needs to prove his worth to the Reds' fanbase.
Indeed, Hugo Ekitike managed to fill the void before his injury as he contributed to 23 goals across all competitions, but, since he's out injured until who knows when, it's hardly surprising to think that Liverpool will want to bring in a new attacker or two.
18 days ago
Former Uruguay striker Luis Suarez has shared his prediction for Norway vs England on Saturday.
With two of the quarter-finals now in the books, all eyes turn to the game on Saturday in Miami between Norway and the Three Lions.
A place in the semi-finals against either Argentina or Switzerland awaits the two teams who will be playing at the Hard Rock Stadium.
The game is expected to be a battle between two of the top strikers at this summer's World Cup in Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.
Someone who also knows how to find the back of the net is the former Liverpool striker, Suarez.
With two of the quarter-finals now in the books, all eyes turn to the game on Saturday in Miami between Norway and the Three Lions.
A place in the semi-finals against either Argentina or Switzerland awaits the two teams who will be playing at the Hard Rock Stadium.
The game is expected to be a battle between two of the top strikers at this summer's World Cup in Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.
Someone who also knows how to find the back of the net is the former Liverpool striker, Suarez.
19 days ago
CHICAGO — When Brett Harris connected for a grand slam in the Worcester Red Sox' doubleheader at Polar Park Wednesday, it was already a good day.
Then, shortly before 11 p.m. Wednesday night, it got better: Harris got word from Worcester interim manager Iggy Suarez that he was being called up by the Red Sox, with instructions to take the first flight out to Chicago Thursday morning.
Even better, when Harris arrived at Rate Field Thursday, he found his name on the lineup card, playing first base in the series finale against the White Sox. Willson Contreras was held out of the lineup, still bothered by a sore left foot, the result of being struck by a foul ball Wednesday night.
Harris took the roster spot made available when Ranger Suarez (groin) was placed on the IL Thursday morning, retroactive to July 6.
"It's good to be here," said Harris, who was acquired by the Red Sox from the Athletics last week. "It kind of happened pretty quickly."
Then, shortly before 11 p.m. Wednesday night, it got better: Harris got word from Worcester interim manager Iggy Suarez that he was being called up by the Red Sox, with instructions to take the first flight out to Chicago Thursday morning.
Even better, when Harris arrived at Rate Field Thursday, he found his name on the lineup card, playing first base in the series finale against the White Sox. Willson Contreras was held out of the lineup, still bothered by a sore left foot, the result of being struck by a foul ball Wednesday night.
Harris took the roster spot made available when Ranger Suarez (groin) was placed on the IL Thursday morning, retroactive to July 6.
"It's good to be here," said Harris, who was acquired by the Red Sox from the Athletics last week. "It kind of happened pretty quickly."
19 days ago
The white-hot Detroit Tigers went for the home sweep of a three-game weeknight series against the Homeless A’s on Thursday evening, after winning the first two games in fun fashion. They made it eight wins in the past nine games with a 4-1 win to complete the sweep.
It was Framber Valdez’s turn in the rotation, and to say his season to date has been a mixed bag is one heck of an understatement. His previous two starts saw him give up four runs in six innings at home against his former Astros teammates, and six runs in five innings in Texas. His stock-in-trade is ground ****** , and when he’s on he gets a lot of ‘em: for example, his June 16 start in Houston saw him get a dozen ground ****** and half that many fly ****** , and he gave up one unearned run in six innings.
José Suarez took the mound for the A’s as an opener. He made his debut in 2019 with the Angels, but he’s had eventful few months lately: waived by Atlanta and picked up by Baltimore in mid-January, then waived by Baltimore and picked back up by Atlanta at the end of January. He was waived again by Atlanta in early May, was picked up by the Mariners, made one relief appearance for them, and had his contract purchased by the A’s less than two weeks later. This guy gets more Frequent Flyer miles than George Clooney’s character in Up in the Air. That was a solid movie.
Valdez struck out the side in the first and got a pair of ground ****** in the second, so he looked to be on-track early. Suarez stuck around for the first four outs and departed in favour of Jack Perkins, whose past few starts haven’t gone so well, so why not try an opener? He got the next two outs so the early returns looked promising for Sacramento.
That changed with one out in the third, though: Jake Rogers, starting for the injured-but-not-on-the-IL Dillon Dingler, hit his second home run in as many days, putting the Tigers up 1-0.
It was Framber Valdez’s turn in the rotation, and to say his season to date has been a mixed bag is one heck of an understatement. His previous two starts saw him give up four runs in six innings at home against his former Astros teammates, and six runs in five innings in Texas. His stock-in-trade is ground ****** , and when he’s on he gets a lot of ‘em: for example, his June 16 start in Houston saw him get a dozen ground ****** and half that many fly ****** , and he gave up one unearned run in six innings.
José Suarez took the mound for the A’s as an opener. He made his debut in 2019 with the Angels, but he’s had eventful few months lately: waived by Atlanta and picked up by Baltimore in mid-January, then waived by Baltimore and picked back up by Atlanta at the end of January. He was waived again by Atlanta in early May, was picked up by the Mariners, made one relief appearance for them, and had his contract purchased by the A’s less than two weeks later. This guy gets more Frequent Flyer miles than George Clooney’s character in Up in the Air. That was a solid movie.
Valdez struck out the side in the first and got a pair of ground ****** in the second, so he looked to be on-track early. Suarez stuck around for the first four outs and departed in favour of Jack Perkins, whose past few starts haven’t gone so well, so why not try an opener? He got the next two outs so the early returns looked promising for Sacramento.
That changed with one out in the third, though: Jake Rogers, starting for the injured-but-not-on-the-IL Dillon Dingler, hit his second home run in as many days, putting the Tigers up 1-0.
