MLB NEWS | Sporting News Canada

MLB NEWS

Nationals, Orioles, Pirates and Rays are not happy with these MLB playoff odds

The official MLB Twitter account shared one set of playoff odds from FanGraphs with an unwise caption: "Let us know what you think."

Jordan Greer

TSN Archives: Tracking Ken Griffey Jr.'s meteoric rise from No. 1 pick to MLB star

We give you a glimpse at how The Sporting News covered phenom Ken Griffey Jr. in the world before social media.

TSN Archives

Mets throw away spring training spot for Tim Tebow

Let's be direct: Tim Tebow is a good guy, but he's not a good player. He sure isn't better than any of the free agents the Mets could have invited to spring training instead.

Tom Gatto

Minor leaguers' salary bump welcomed, but MLB still must do better

Minor league baseball players will receive a long-awaited pay bump, starting with the 2021 regular season.

Ryan Fagan

TSN Archives: Willie Mays smacks his 500th homer

Willie Mays' 500th homer — on Sept. 13, 1965 — was only the latest entry in a long list of achievements he would collect during his illustrious career.

TSN Archives

TSN Archives: Ted Williams surges on last day to finish at .406

Ted Williams wanted to be known as the Greatest Hitter Who Ever Lived, and he made an excellent case to own that moniker. His 1941 season was when he officially put the baseball world on notice that his skill with a bat would be hard to match.

TSN Archives

TSN Archives: Mike Schmidt was baseball's best in the '80s

Mike Schmidt won three MVP awards and made seven All-Star teams during the 1980s. It's easy to see why The Sporting News named him baseball's Player of the Decade.

TSN Archives

Andrew Benintendi trade grades: Red Sox bank on future, Royals get better now

The Mets also snuck into the deal, getting a 22-year-old outfield prospect in the trade.

Joe Rivera

TSN Archives: Jim Abbott, Team USA embark on road to Olympic gold

Long before Jim Abbott threw a no-hitter for the Yankees, he brought home a gold medal for Team USA baseball. Here's the start of his journey.

TSN Archives

TSN Archives: Rick Cerone talks replacing late Yankees great Thurman Munson

Rick Cerone was next in line for the Yankee catching legacy, following the untimely death of Yankee captain Thurman Munson.

TSN Archives

TSN Archives: Bobby Thomson's pennant-winning homer sets new high in drama

Bedlam breaks loose as Thomson turns defeat to victory.

TSN Archives

Five interesting rules from MLB's 2021 health and safety protocols

MLB released its COVID-19-influenced health and safety protocols for the 2021 season on Tuesday.

Ryan Fagan

When is MLB spring training 2021? Pitcher, catcher reporting dates for all 30 teams

Finally good to go for 2021, spring training reporting dates are here for all 30 clubs.

Joe Rivera

ESPN reporter Pedro Gomez dies at 58; stunned colleagues mourn loss

Gomez joined ESPN in 2003 after more than a decade as a newspaper reporter and columnist. Those who knew and worked with him testified to how well he was admired.

Tom Gatto

Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes were both once Major League Baseball draft picks

Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes are facing off in Super Bowl 55. Once upon a time, they were both selections in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.

Billy Heyen

Jose Canseco goes down easily 10 seconds into Barstool PPV fight

Did the former MLB star maybe, kinda, sorta take a dive?

Tom Gatto

Dodgers’ signing of Trevor Bauer sends clear message to Padres, rest of MLB

There’s a long way to go, but the Dodgers' chance of repeating as World Series champion looks pretty good right about now.

Ryan Fagan

Is Cardinals' corner-infield combo of Nolan Arenado, Paul Goldschmidt the best in baseball?

The Cardinals, as you may have heard, made a significant addition this week.

Ryan Fagan

Transcendent greatness of Mahomes at 25 is on level with sports' biggest legends

Regardless of the Super Bowl 55 outcome, Patrick Mahomes has already etched his name in a pantheon of sports greats before the ripe old age of … 26.

Joe Rivera

Mickey Callaway allegations show that baseball is still willing to protect predatory creeps

Callaway's behavior was "the worst-kept secret" in the industry because those in the industry determined that it was acceptable for it to remain a secret. That’s inexcusable.

Ryan Fagan

Arenado trade grades: Cardinals snatch a star; Rockies bungle move

Why wouldn't St. Louis add an All-Star third baseman and millions of dollars in exchange for the little it had to give Colorado?

Tom Gatto

Mickey Callaway accused of unwanted advances toward female media while with Cleveland, Mets, Angels

The Los Angeles pitching coach tells The Athletic, which published the allegations against him, that his conduct "was in no way intended to be disrespectful to any women involved."

Tom Gatto

Dustin Pedroia's Hall of Fame resume is probably better than you think

Dustin Pedroia will only be 41 years old when he makes his debut on the Hall of Fame ballot for the class of 2025.

Ryan Fagan

Nolan Arenado trade analysis: Just what Cardinals' offense needed

St. Louis reportedly is close to adding one of the top third basemen in the National League.

Tom Gatto

'A bit more hesitant' has been NL Central's unofficial slogan this offseason

Is anyone actually trying to win the Central? The answer, at least to this point, is clearly no.

Ryan Fagan

Steve Cohen tries to tell Mets fans that GameStop not his Madoff moment

The team's majority owner says his stake in Melvin Capital, which appears to have already disappeared, has no bearing on what the Mets' 2021 payroll will be.

Tom Gatto

Masahiro Tanaka free agency: Right-hander returns to Japan after seven years with Yankees

Masahiro Tanaka is back with the Rakuten Golden Eagles.

Tom Gatto

Blue Jays add Steven Matz; ex-Mets analyst Nelson Figueroa says left-hander 'can be top-tier talent'

Ex-Mets TV analyst Nelson Figueroa weighs in on what the southpaw brings to the Jays' rotation.

Jackie Spiegel

Sporting News supports proposal to remove J.G. Taylor Spink name from BBWAA award

Under Spink, The Sporting News was known around the world as “The Bible of Baseball,” a title no one challenged. In reality, though, Spink’s Sporting News was “The Bible of White Baseball” for far too long.

Ryan Fagan

Curt Schilling asks to be removed from Hall of Fame ballot after missing 2021 induction

Schilling's numbers are certainly worthy of induction into the Hall of Fame. His post-playing career, however, left him once again on the outside looking in. With only one year of eligibility remaining, he requested to be left off the ballot for 2022.

Zac Al-Khateeb

Curt Schilling's Hall of Fame case: Post-retirement controversies meet special career

The right-hander has a Cooperstown resume weighed down by comments he's made over the past decade.

Dan Bernstein

Hall of Fame class of 2022: Will A-Rod and Ortiz's ballot debut affect votes for Bonds, Clemens?

Let’s start with what we know about the ballot for the Hall of Fame class of 2022: One way or another, it’s the last hurrah for Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens and Sammy Sosa.

Ryan Fagan

Why did the Yankees trade Adam Ottavino to Red Sox? Luxury tax concerns at forefront of deal

In a rare deal between bitter rivals, the Yankees send Ottavino to the Red Sox for cash considerations.

Joe Rivera

Packers' Davante Adams, Dodgers' Joc Pederson formed dynamic receiver duo in high school

Davante Adams wasn't the best receiver on his high school team as a junior, because senior Joc Pederson stole those honors.

Billy Heyen

'Sensation': Hank Aaron's baseball beginnings, from the pages of The Sporting News

Let's take a look at the start of Aaron’s remarkable baseball career.

Ryan Fagan

Sports world remembers Hank Aaron

Hammering Hank Aaron died Friday at the age of 86. His was an indelible legacy not only on the baseball diamond, but also in civil rights — something reflected by the reaction of the sports world to his death.

Zac Al-Khateeb

Blue Jays preparing to play home games in Florida if necessary, report says

The club is making plans in case it has to play another slate of home games in the U.S.

Tom Gatto

Blue Jays' free-agent moves assure AL East respectability

Toronto added George Springer and Kirby Yates this week. The club might pursue other big names as well.

Dan Bernstein

Mets fire Jared Porter after report that GM sent lewd texts to reporter in 2016

New owner Steve Cohen announced the firing Tuesday.

Joe Rivera

Mets GM Jared Porter bombarded female reporter with lewd texts, report says

An ESPN investigation found that Porter sent a woman he met in an elevator more than 60 unanswered messages in 2016, including one of male genitalia.

Dan Bernstein

Yankees' Luis Castillo trade talk hits wall

Cincinnati wants Gleyber Torres. That's not happening.

Dan Bernstein

Citi Field to host '24/7' COVID-19 vaccination site open to all New Yorkers

The Mets continue to make big waves this offseason — but this time it has nothing to do with baseball.

Jason Foster

Five Tommy Lasorda stories from his playing days that you probably haven't heard

The longtime Dodgers manager spent his career filling up pages of The Sporting News. Here are just five of countless highlights.

Ryan Fagan

Francisco Lindor trade grades: Mets land superstar face of franchise; Cleveland cries poor

Cleveland traded franchise icon Francisco Lindor on Thursday, and absolutely zero people in baseball were surprised.

Ryan Fagan

Baseball Hall of Fame 2021: SN's Ryan Fagan explains his ballot

Here are the nine player who got my vote this year, in alphabetical order by last name: Bobby Abreu, Barry Bonds, Mark Buehrle, Roger Clemens, Tim Hudson, Manny Ramirez, Scott Rolen, Curt Schilling and Gary Sheffield.

Ryan Fagan

Yu Darvish trade grades: Padres provide master class in team building; Cubs banking on future

There's nothing admirable about the way the Cubs have done business in recent years, but moving on from Yu Darvish isn't the worst thing in the world.

Joe Rivera

Yu Darvish instant trade analysis

Darvish and Blake Snell bring finesse to a San Diego rotation stocked with power pitchers.

Dan Bernstein

Padres' aggressiveness shines in offseason of complacency for other MLB clubs

A Padres rotation that includes Blake Snell, Dinelson Lamet, Chris Paddock and Zack Davies and possibly Yu Darvish will put other MLB contenders on notice.

Ryan Fagan

Blake Snell trade grades: Padres pull an ace; Rays continue to churn with fresh prospects

San Diego makes a big move as it pursues the Dodgers in the NL West. Tampa Bay does Tampa Bay things.

Tom Gatto

The two things about Phil Niekro that I remember most — and the lessons attached

The last few years of Phil Niekro's career showed that you don't have to believe what people say about you — and it's nice to prove the critics wrong.

Jason Foster

Pirates trade Josh Bell to Nationals; first baseman 'thrilled' to play for 'contender'

The Nationals traded a budding minor league pitcher and an MLB-ready starter in return.

Joe Rivera

Pandemic inspired creativity, charity, reflection among card collectors

Not everyone who got into card collecting this year was fueled by nostalgia or money.

Ryan Fagan

These stars' stats will get a major boost from change in Negro Leagues' status

MLB announced Wednesday that seven distinct Negro Leagues will be given official "major league" status, a long-overdue correction related to the leagues that produced some of baseball’s greatest Hall of Famers.

Ryan Fagan

Manny Ramirez makes baseball return in Australia

Manny Ramirez's next baseball stop is in Australia, where the former MLB star will play for the Sydney Blue Sox in the Australian Baseball League.

Billy Heyen

How did the Cleveland Indians get their name?

From the Jan. 21, 1915, issue of The Sporting News: "The choice is but temporary, however, but will be made permanent if no better cognomen is thought of before the season is over, it being the wish that the team would go out and make a name for itself."

Ryan Fagan

Why won't the Yankees re-sign DJ LeMahieu? A few reasons why it's not that simple

DJ LeMahieu has been the constant.

Joe Rivera

What's the Cleveland Indians' new name? MLB fans have some suggestions

The Cleveland Indians may not announce a new name for a while, but MLB fans on Twitter have plenty of suggestions.

Billy Heyen

If the Cleveland Indians change their team name, here are 6 replacement options

The Cleveland Indians are planning to "determine the best path forward" regarding their team name.

Jordan Heck

Indians should quit hedging, retire Chief Wahoo completely

Demotion isn't enough. The Indians can no longer make money from Chief Wahoo. Each day they do so is an insult. Not to political correctness, but to common decency. To history. To the people they supposedly "honor."

Cory Collins

White Sox still quiet after manager Tony La Russa pleads guilty in DUI case

Chicago has stalled since hiring Tony La Russa, avoiding public commentary on the controversial manager.

Dan Bernstein

MLB Rule 5 Draft results 2020: Complete list of selections

The last day of the winter meetings always holds the Rule 5 Draft, and this season is no exception. Here's everyone who was selected this season.

Joe Rivera

Astros' cheating scandal trolled by 'Family Guy'

The Astros cheating scandal is back in the spotlight, thanks to "Family Guy."

SJ Lynn

Bob Costas confirms Twitter account in his name was fake, assures 'fires of hell are still very much blazing'

Bob Costas briefly had a fake Twitter account made in his name, but it couldn't even get the number of Costas' Emmy Awards correct.

Billy Heyen

MLB Rule 5 Draft results, eligible players & more to know for 2020

The Major League Baseball Rule 5 Draft takes place Thursday to help conclude the Winter Meetings. Here's what to know about the 2020 version of the draft that in the past has featured Johan Santana, Shane Victorino, Dan Uggla and Josh Hamilton.

Billy Heyen

Minor league baseball restructuring: Full list of 119 affiliate invites sent out by MLB teams

MLB’s desire to reshape, restructure and rearrange the minor leagues hasn’t been much of a secret for a long time.

Ryan Fagan

The 15 MLB batting stances we’ve imitated most in the backyard since 1975

Even now, as we’ve grown into adults and forgotten some of the simple joys of youth, there’s an overwhelming sense of nostalgia in picking up a baseball bat.

Ryan Fagan

Lance Lynn trade grades: Big get for White Sox

Chicago and Texas make a late-night deal during the Winter Meetings. The transaction shows where each team is in relation to contending for a playoff berth.

Tom Gatto

Who is Tomoyuki Sugano? Japanese ace adds wrinkle to FA market

Tomoyuki Sugano was posted by the Yomiuri Giants, meaning he'll be coming to MLB as an appealing starting pitcher in a free-agent market light on top-tier arms.

Billy Heyen

Five things we want to see happen during MLB's Virtual Winter Meetings

It’s hard to know what to expect from MLB's Virtual Winter Meetings. But it's fun to hope and speculate.

Ryan Fagan

The seven most intriguing MLB free agents from record crop of non-tendered players

These players will find new teams, though some (many?) will have to wait a long time to find that opportunity.

Ryan Fagan

Rogers Centre to be demolished, new stadium built for Blue Jays, per report

The stadium opened in 1989 as SkyDome.

Jason Foster

Tim Tebow will be back with Mets in 2021 to continue chasing his MLB dream

Mets president Sandy Alderson confirmed the former NFL quarterback would return to the franchise this season.

SJ Lynn

Blake Snell trade rumors: Rays pitcher available to Angels, Mariners & others

Tampa Bay is reportedly willing to part with its former Cy Young winner.

Dan Bernstein

Did Russell Wilson play baseball? Yes, and the Yankees still own his MLB draft rights

Russell Wilson's MLB rights are still owned by the Yankees. While the Seahawks quarterback isn't going anywhere, it's worth revisiting his baseball career as he competes in the NFC West with fellow former baseball player Kyler Murray.

Billy Heyen

How the Mets could spend the $20M they'll save from Cano's PED ban

The Mets will have a new second baseman for the 2021 season, but they also just got even more money to play with.

Ryan Fagan

Mets' Robinson Cano suspended for 2021 season after positive PED test

The sweet-swinging lefty has been popped for his second failed drug test in three years.

Joe Rivera

Theo Epstein might want to take a break, but that shouldn't stop the Mets

The long-time Cubs executive surprisingly stepped down on Tuesday, as he reportedly wants to take time off from baseball. That shouldn't mean a thing to Steve Cohen and the Mets.

Joe Rivera

What to know about 2020 Baseball Hall of Fame vote

Here’s everything you need to know, from the players on the ballot to how they’re voted on to when the results are announced.

Ryan Fagan

New Marlins GM Kim Ng breaks glass that should’ve been shattered long ago

Kim Ng is the first woman hired as a GM in professional men's sports. She will not be the last.

Jackie Spiegel

Who is Kim Ng? Marlins' new GM becomes first woman in MLB history to hold the role

In a sport where retreads are so often the default answer, it is incredibly refreshing to see teams look for new people to fill leadership roles within their franchises.

Ryan Fagan

MLB awards 2020: Full list of finalists, winners for MVP, Rookie of the Year, Cy Young and more

A shortened season is less than ideal, but there's still enough there to hand out awards. Here's what you need to know.

Joe Rivera

Freddie Freeman is the NL MVP, so can we please stop calling him underrated?

Over the past eight years, Freeman has received MVP votes every time he’s played at least 75 percent of his team’s games. That’s a decent amount of love.

Ryan Fagan

MLB free agent tracker 2020: Full list of signings for the 75 best available players

With the lost revenues in 2020 and the plethora of questions about the 2021 season, this offseason has more uncertainty than any offseason since baseball was on strike in the winter of 1994-95.

Ryan Fagan

'Baffling on all measures': What if Marcus Stroman isn't only free agent crossing White Sox, La Russa off his list?

There were lots of opinions bandied about on social media after news broke of Tony La Russa's DUI arrest, including one that mattered more than most — free-agent starter Marcus Stroman.

Ryan Fagan

La Russa DUI arrest not disqualifying for White Sox, which makes bad move look worse

The organization reportedly is sticking with the 76-year-old Hall of Famer despite his February arrest in Arizona. It could have gotten out of its decision with minimal harm.

Tom Gatto

MLB gives Justin Turner pass for celebrating Dodgers' World Series win while infected with COVID-19

Commissioner Rob Manfred says the league, the Dodgers and Turner all are to blame for the postgame incident.

Tom Gatto

Red Sox quietly rehire Alex Cora amid election chaos, prove again that MLB doesn't care about Astros scandal

Announcing the hire within a half-hour of the biggest election news of the past few years sure makes it seem like the Red Sox were trying to avoid criticism that might have normally come their way.

Ryan Fagan

Francisco Lindor trade rumors: Four teams that could trade for shortstop, three that won't

Ask anyone in baseball to compile a list of the players they’d want to build a franchise around, the players who are stars on and off the field, and Francisco Lindor is sure to make pretty much every short list.

Ryan Fagan

Blue Jays' Vlad Guerrero Jr: 'I was overweight, I said that it couldn't happen again'

The Blue Jays slugger is already gearing up for 2021.

Jackie Spiegel

2020 Gold Glove winners

Both the Cubs and White Sox had first-time winners for the annual fielding honor. Sporting News tracked the full Gold Glove results for every position.

Dan Bernstein

White Sox acknowledge Rick Renteria's Manager of the Year prospects with passing quote tweet

Chicago let Renteria go last month after he led the club to its first postseason berth in 12 years.

Tom Gatto

MLB Hot Stove: Seven teams with reasons to be aggressive in potentially slow offseason

This, baseball fans, is going to be the strangest offseason in decades.

Ryan Fagan

Why Steve Cohen may not make the Mets instant contenders this offseason

The Mets now have the richest owner in baseball, and spending is associated with wins. Fans want Steve Cohen to spend a bundle this coming winter.

Tom Gatto

Cody Bellinger discusses 'stoned' face meme: 'I am not high during the games'

The Dodgers outfielder and first baseman appeared on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" to discuss the meme, and cleared the air.

Joe Rivera

With Tony La Russa hired, here's what the White Sox need to do this offseason

Now that Chicago owner Jerry Reinsdorf has his manager, what’s next?

Ryan Fagan

White Sox crushed for email gaffe in their Tony La Russa hiring announcement

The South Side team is having a rough Thursday.

Dan Bernstein

White Sox hire Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa, following owner's orders

Two questions are fair to ask. The first: Wait, what? Also: Why?

Ryan Fagan

MLB free agency 2020-21: Ranking the top 10 free agents for next season

The 2020 offseason, like the 2020 regular season, is full of uncertainties. And one of the biggest questions is how teams and players will approach the free-agent market.

Ryan Fagan

Is the 'Jonas Blessing' sports conspiracy theory real?

Nick Jonas has shared an interesting conspiracy theory about successful athletes and their connection to the Jonas Brothers — and he has the receipts to prove it.

SJ Lynn

Kevin Cash's decision to pull Blake Snell, explained

Kevin Cash pulled Blake Snell in Game 6 of the World Series because some analytics told him to do so. But the Rays didn't have a good enough sample size on that dominant version of Snell to perfectly make that call.

Billy Heyen

Justin Turner COVID-19 timeline: When did Dodgers star test positive & why did he celebrate World Series win?

Justin Turner was removed from Game 6 of the World Series because of a positive COVID-19 test but returned to the field for the Dodgers' championship celebration. This is a timeline of when Turner got COVID-19, along with how the Dodgers controlled his isolation.

Billy Heyen

Cardinals' John Mozeliak takes blame for Randy Arozarena trade

John Mozeliak owned up to the questionable trade that sent Arozarena to the Rays last offseason.

Joe Rivera

MLB hammers Justin Turner in statement, but it deserves blame for this debacle, too

The statement released by Major League Baseball on Wednesday afternoon — noticeably unsigned by anyone, it should be noted — was stunning, for a couple of reasons.

Ryan Fagan

Cash pulling Snell from Game 6 is bad look for baseball

Baseball is eternally trying to develop stars, to develop personalities that will attract a larger, younger audience. But depriving fans of watching what could've been a truly special performance is not a good approach to the game.

Ryan Fagan

Blake Snell 'upset,' Dodgers players thrilled over Rays' fateful decision to pull ace from Game 6

Snell didn't hide his displeasure as Rays manager Kevin Cash emerged from the dugout.

Jordan Greer

Here's how to claim your free taco from Taco Bell, courtesy of World Series hero Mookie Betts

Mookie Betts stole a base in the fifth inning of Game 1 of the World Series, winning a free Doritos Locos Taco from Taco Bell for everyone for the second time in his career.

Billy Heyen

Rob Manfred booed while presenting World Series trophy to Dodgers

Manfred spoke after LA beat Tampa Bay in Game 6 to win its first World Series title since 1988.

Dan Bernstein

Justin Turner joins World Series celebration without mask after positive COVID-19 test result

The Dodgers infielder was removed from Game 6 in the eighth inning but returned to the field following the game.

Dan Bernstein

Dodgers' Justin Turner removed midgame after being told of positive COVID-19 test

Turner was pulled in the latter stages of Los Angeles' clinching victory. Why did such a move happen in the middle of a game?

Joe Rivera

LeBron, other sports stars congratulate Kershaw for becoming a champion

Kershaw secured his long-awaited World Series title, and the sports world took notice.

Joe Rivera

World Series Game 6: Quick hook backfires on Rays

Tampa Bay's starter was dominating. Then he was out of the game. And just like that, the Rays found themselves trailing.

Tom Gatto

Rays' Cash explains why he pulled Blake Snell from Game 6

Tampa Bay's manager caught flak for his decision to take out Blake Snell. He told the media exactly why he did it.

Joe Rivera

Dodgers vs. Rays live score, updates, highlights from Game 6

Sporting News tracked live scoring updates and highlights from the 2020 World Series between the Dodgers and Rays. Follow for complete updates from Game 6.

Joe Rivera

World Series schedule 2020: Dates, times, TV, scores for Dodgers vs. Rays

Here's a complete guide to the 2020 World Series, including the TV schedule with start times and channels for each game between the Dodgers and Rays.

Joe Rivera

Five early storylines as MLB's offseason of uncertainty arrives

The MLB free-agent and trade markets should fascinating to follow over the next few months.

Ryan Fagan

Dodgers' Corey Seager makes it a double with 2020 World Series MVP honor

The Los Angeles shortstop becomes part of an exclusive group after picking up his second individual award of the 2020 MLB postseason.

Tom Gatto

Ranking the four most bizarre moments in crazy final day of MLB season

Baseball was this close to ending this strange campaign without the postseason being hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Then a key player tested positive during the clinching game.

Ryan Fagan

Vin Scully congratulates Dodgers on Twitter

The Hall of Fame broadcaster has seen all seven of the franchise's world championships, beginning with the first in 1955.

Tom Gatto

Who is Tony Gonsolin? Dodgers rookie can make World Series history

Tony Gonsolin will start Game 6 of the World Series for the Dodgers vs. the Rays with his team having a chance to clinch the world championship. Here's more to know about the cat-loving converted outfielder.

Billy Heyen

The curse of Mookie Betts: Immediate return on Dodgers-Red Sox trade shows shades of Babe Ruth

The Red Sox's Mookie Betts trade to the Dodgers already shows shades of similarity to the Babe Ruth trade to the Yankees 100 years earlier.

Billy Heyen

Why did the Red Sox trade Mookie Betts? Revisiting the failed contract talks that led to lopsided Dodgers deal

Mookie Betts led the Los Angeles Dodgers to the 2020 World Series, while the Boston Red Sox traded Betts and have watched the entire postseason from home. Almost a year after the trade, why Boston traded Betts still raises more questions than answers.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers' Corey Seager advances MLB's tall shortstop revolution on the World Series stage

Corey Seager, along with Fernando Tatis Jr. and Carlos Correa, is part of a tall shortstop revolution in Major League Baseball. Cal Ripken Jr. was 6-4, but this could be the first time three star shortstops are that tall in the same era.

Billy Heyen

LA officials worried COVID-19 spike will continue after Lakers celebrations, potential Dodgers title

Los Angeles County has seen a COVID-19 spike since the Lakers won the NBA Finals, and officials are worried it'll continue with the Dodgers' World Series run, too.

Billy Heyen

Mookie Betts contract breakdown: How much money does Dodgers' star outfielder make in 12-year deal?

Mookie Betts is due to be paid $365 million by the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2021 through 2032. Here's a breakdown of the wealthy extension Betts signed after being traded from the Boston Red Sox.

Billy Heyen

How does Rays' Ji-Man Choi pull off his splits? 'Pilates ... that's about it'

Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Ji-Man Choi can do splits. It's not something fans expect a 260-pound first baseman to do in the pursuit of a single out. Choi credits Pilates for how he's able to take up such athletic positions.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers vs. Rays payroll breakdown

The Los Angeles Dodgers have the second-highest payroll in baseball, while the Tampa Bay Rays have the third-lowest. They'll meet in the 2020 World Series despite that disparity.

Billy Heyen

Where is the World Series in 2020? Location, cost, fan attendance & more to know about Texas' Globe Life Field

The 2020 World Series is being played at the Texas Rangers' home ballpark, Globe Life Field. It opened in 2020 and helped MLB keep travel off the table during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Billy Heyen

What time does the World Series start tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Dodgers vs. Rays Game 6

Here's a complete guide to watching Game 6 of the 2020 World Series, including a TV schedule with start times and channels for Dodgers vs. Rays.

Joe Rivera

Dodgers at crossroads of dynasty and disappointment heading into Game 6

How history ultimately judges these Dodgers won’t be known for a while.

Ryan Fagan

World Series Game 6 DraftKings Picks

The Dodgers can clinch the World Series in Game 6 against the Rays on Tuesday night. We have DraftKings Showdown lineup picks and advice for the final MLB DFS opportunities of the 2020 season.

Billy Heyen

Rays' Manuel Margot tries to steal home in Game 5 of the World Series

Margot took a risk to try to steal a run, but he was narrowly beaten at the plate.

Jacob Hancock

Three keys to Dodgers' Game 5 victory over Rays

Manuel Margot's failed attempt at stealing home heads the list.

Tom Gatto

Clayton Kershaw's playoff stats, explained: Why does the Dodgers great struggle in the postseason?

Clayton Kershaw has been a much worse pitcher in the playoffs than the regular season throughout his career. For the Dodgers great, there's not one explanation for his struggles.

Billy Heyen

Who is Randy Arozarena? Rays' bargain slugger an unlikely World Series hero after trade from Cardinals

Randy Arozarena has dominated the 2020 MLB postseason for the Tampa Bay Rays, and the Cuban outfielder will look to keep slugging against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.

Billy Heyen

How Brett Phillips became the unlikeliest of Rays' unlikely World Series heroes in Game 4

Brett Phillips had the hit that led to a walk-off Rays win in Game 4 of the World Series. He wasn't who anyone would've predicted to walk off the Dodgers in 2020.

Billy Heyen

Roberts told Baez he was done before he allowed home run

Dave Roberts admitted after Game 4 that he told Pedro Baez he was done after the sixth inning, only to send him out for the seventh to allow a home run.

Billy Heyen

What time does the World Series start tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Dodgers vs. Rays Game 5

Here's a complete guide to watching Game 5 of the 2020 World Series, including a TV schedule with start times and channels for Dodgers vs. Rays.

Dan Bernstein

MLB fans react to Rays' wild walk-off ending in Game 4

An improbable series of events evened the series between the Rays and Dodgers, much to the delight of baseball fans around the country.

Dan Bernstein

Rays-Dodgers Game 4 ending: Separating the heroes from the goats

Tampa Bay and Los Angeles played a classic game that ended in a bizarre manner. A quick look into who was the most responsible for producing that ending.

Tom Gatto

Keep Game 5 start more about '20 World Series than Kershaw legacy

The Dodgers left-hander has another opportunity to change the narrative about his pitching in October. More importantly, he can help LA regain control of this year's Fall Classic.

Ryan Fagan

Dodgers' Buehler becoming generational star on national stage

Buehler shut down the Rays in Game 3 of the World Series on Friday.

Dan Bernstein

What channel is the World Series on tonight? Time, TV schedule to watch Dodgers vs. Rays Game 4

Here's a complete guide to watching Game 4 of the 2020 World Series, including a TV schedule with start times and channels for Dodgers vs. Rays.

Joe Rivera

With Film Room, MLB finally embraces benefits of letting fans share highlights: 'Our philosophy has evolved'

It’s no secret that MLB used to take a rather heavy-handed approach to controlling the sharing/distribution of its highlights. Not anymore.

Ryan Fagan

What channel is the World Series on tonight? Time, TV schedule to watch Dodgers vs. Rays Game 3

Here's a complete guide to watching Game 3 of the 2020 World Series, including a TV schedule with start times and channels for Dodgers vs. Rays.

Joe Rivera

Why Brandon Lowe's breakout gives the Rays a chance to win the World Series

The Rays needed their best regular season hitter, Brandon Lowe, to find his swing in the postseason. Two home runs in Game 2 of the World Series made things all square and brought back the chance of a Tampa Bay upset of the Dodgers.

Billy Heyen

Walker Buehler is the next dominant ace in a long line of Dodgers pitching greats

Walker Buehler's Dodgers career is already off to a great start, and the right-handed pitcher can show in the 2020 World Series that he can be the next great Los Angeles ace.

Billy Heyen

Why did the Pirates trade Tyler Glasnow, Austin Meadows? Failed bid at contention gifted Rays young stars

The Rays acquired Tyler Glasnow and Austin Meadows in a 2018 trade deadline deal for Chris Archer with the Pirates. Based on the teams in the 2020 World Series, Tampa Bay seems to have won that trade.

Billy Heyen

Yadier Molina blasts Gold Glove process; why he's wrong

Yadier Molina is one Gold Glove away from tying Johnny Bench's NL record of 10. He believes MLB and/or Gold Glove voters actively worked to deny him that opportunity this year. He's wrong for at least two reasons.

Tom Gatto

With Rays, Dodgers tied at 1-1, history shows Game 3 winner has huge advantage

The 2020 World Series is tied, with the Dodgers and Rays each owning a single, very important victory. It’s the 17th time in the past 40 years that the World Series has been tied 1-1, so we thought we’d take a look at how those other series played out.

Ryan Fagan

MLB's analytics revolution is striking out with many who love the game

Crash Davis was right: Strikeouts are boring. They're also having a toxic impact on the viewing experience.

Mike DeCourcy

What happened to David Price? Why former Rays ace opted out of 2020 season after trade to Dodgers

Former Rays ace David Price is now a Dodgers pitcher, but he won't play in the 2020 World Series between the teams after opting out before the season.

Billy Heyen

There's a simple reason why Justin Turner has a stain on his Dodgers jersey

Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner has a black smudge over his last name on his jersey in every game. There's an explanation for why that happens.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers vs. Rays score, results: Brandon Lowe breaks out as Tampa Bay wins Game 2 to even series

Sporting News is tracking live scoring updates and highlights from the 2020 World Series between the Dodgers and Rays. Follow for complete results from Tuesday's Game 1.

Jacob Hancock

Why did this dude throw his glove on the field in World Series Game 2? An investigation

Alcohol is the likely answer.

Joe Rivera

Marcus Stroman reheats beef with Yankees: Pitching outside of Gerrit Cole not 'in his league'

The free-agent pitcher is letting it be know that he thinks the Yankees' pitching situation stinks.

Joe Rivera

What channel is the World Series on tonight? Time, TV schedule to watch Dodgers vs. Rays Game 2

Here's a complete guide to watching Game 2 of the 2020 World Series, including a TV schedule with start times and channels for Dodgers vs. Rays.

Dan Bernstein

How the Dodgers acquired Justin Turner, Max Muncy for nothing and turned them into stars

Justin Turner and Max Muncy (and Chris Taylor) are three of the Dodgers' most important hitters. All three were acquired for almost nothing, and now they might help L.A. win the 2020 World Series.

Billy Heyen

Who's pitching for the Dodgers in World Series Game 2? Tony Gonsolin to start; Dustin May, Julio Urias available

The Los Angeles Dodgers turn to a "bullpen game" in Game 2 of the World Series, with starter Tony Gonsolin likely to be followed by a combination of Dustin May and Julio Urias against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers could sweep World Series if Rays don't fix these two things

Clayton Kershaw has never had a swing-and-miss rate higher than he did in Game 1 of the World Series against Tampa Bay.

Ryan Fagan

World Series Game 2 DraftKings Picks

The Dodgers and Rays get Game 2 of the World Series underway Wednesday night. We have DraftKings Showdown lineup picks and advice for the final MLB DFS opportunities of the 2020 season.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers' Cody Bellinger wisely switches up celebration after Game 1 home run

Cody Bellinger learned his lesson: Don't celebrate harder, celebrate smarter.

Jordan Greer

Rays leave Tyler Glasnow in too long in Game 1 of World Series

Manager Kevin Cash's decision to ride Glasnow assisted a Dodgers rally.

Dan Bernstein

Why the Dodgers should worry about Ji-Man Choi

Rays first baseman Ji-Man Choi rakes dominant pitching, homers from his weaker side and rarely stops smiling. The Dodgers should be concerned about Choi in the World Series.

Billy Heyen

Why do baseball teams use the shift? How Dodgers, Rays deployed MLB strategy to reach 2020 World Series

The Rays began MLB's shifting revolution around 2010, and it's taken the Dodgers with them to the World Series in 2020. We broke down MLB's shifting trends and why the Rays use a four-man outfield.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers vs. Rays score, results: Mookie Betts, Clayton Kershaw lead LA to convincing Game 1 win

Sporting News is tracking live scoring updates and highlights from the 2020 World Series between the Dodgers and Rays. Follow for complete results from Tuesday's Game 1.

Joe Rivera

Luhnow attacks MLB punishment

Jeff Luhnow feels MLB treated him unfairly and should have gone after lower-level Houston employees.

Dan Bernstein

What time is the World Series tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Dodgers vs. Rays Game 1

Here's a complete guide to watching Game 1 of the 2020 World Series, including a TV schedule with start times and channels for Dodgers vs. Rays.

Joe Rivera

Dodgers vs. Rays: Four factors that could determine who wins the 2020 World Series

The Rays, both No. 1 seeds, quickly took care of business in the Wild Card Series, then used their superior depth and strength to outlast spirited challenges to reach the World Series.

Ryan Fagan

The oral history of the most epic World Series swing-and-miss ever

Perhaps the most incredible, jaw-dropping moment of 1990 World Series was one that does not show up in the box score.

Ryan Fagan

World Series Game 1 DraftKings Picks

The Dodgers and Rays get Game 1 of the World Series underway Tuesday night. We have DraftKings Showdown lineup picks and advice for the final MLB DFS opportunities of the 2020 season.

Billy Heyen

World Series predictions

Nobody really has any idea what’s going to happen between the Rays and Dodgers, but here are a few things to keep in mind as the Fall Classic gets underway.

Ryan Fagan

How to watch the World Series

The 2020 Fall Classic marks just the fourth time since 1995 that the two best teams in baseball will duke it out for the title.

Jackie Spiegel

Dodgers' Cody Bellinger dislocated his shoulder celebrating go-ahead home run to clinch NLCS

Cody Bellinger hit a solo home run to send the Dodgers to the World Series. In his celebrations, he appeared to dislocate his right shoulder, an injury which has happened to Bellinger before.

Billy Heyen

How good was Kyler Murray at baseball? Former Oakland A's draft pick left a big 'what if' by picking NFL

Kyler Murray's baseball career was put on hold to play quarterback in the NFL, but his MLB performance with the Oakland Athletics could have been just as breathtaking.

Billy Heyen

Dodgers in World Series after rallying past Braves in NLCS Game 7

Sporting News tracked live scoring updates and highlights from Dodgers vs. Braves in Game 7 of the 2020 NLCS. Follow for complete results.

Jacob Hancock

Max Muncy's NLCS Game 7 slide into Travis d'Arnaud riles Twitter

The Dodgers infielder and Braves catcher produce the rare home-plate collision.

Tom Gatto

Astros vs. Rays score, result: Tampa Bay quiets Houston in ALCS Game 7 to reach World Series

Sporting News provided coverage of Game 7. Houston trailed 3-0 in the ALCS before tying the series Friday, but it could not break through in the deciding contest.

Dan Bernstein

MLB playoff schedule 2020: Updated bracket, dates, times, TV channels for ALCS, NLCS

The Astros and Rays meet in the ALCS, while the Dodgers continue their quest for another World Series vs the Braves in the NLCS. Sporting News has everything you need to know about the Championship Series.

Joe Rivera

MLB playoff schedule 2020: Full bracket, dates, times, TV channels for every series

The MLB postseason is back and weirder than ever. Here's the complete 2020 MLB playoff schedule, including TV channels and start times from the Wild Card Series to the World Series.

Joe Rivera

Why equating '20 Astros with '04 Red Sox is wrong

Many have compared Houston's resilience to Boston's curse-breaking World Series run in 2004, but there's no comparison when the greater context is considered.

Jacob Hancock

Will Smith faces Will Smith in NLCS Game 5 and Twitter can't contain itself

Because, see, they both have the same name and a celebrity has the same name and . . .

Tom Gatto

If Dodgers fall short of World Series, it's probably time to move on from Dave Roberts

For a franchise that hasn’t won a World Series since 1988, bringing a title home to Los Angeles is the only goal.

Ryan Fagan

Sporting News 2020 American League All-Stars: Jose Abreu, Tim Anderson, Shane Bieber rule voting

Sporting News named its first MLB All-Star team in 1925.

Jason Foster

Sporting News 2020 National League All-Stars: Braves lead the field; Betts, Machado, Realmuto pace voting

Voting for the annual honors took place in September.

Jason Foster

Correa called walk-off home run

The Astros star ended the game in the most dramatic way possible.

Zac Al-Khateeb

Braves bounce-back brewing? How other teams with lopsided playoff losses responded

There have been an even 20 postseason games in MLB history decided by a dozen runs or more. Let’s take a deeper look.

Ryan Fagan

Sporting News 2020 MLB awards: Abreu voted top player

The 60-game MLB season in 2020 didn’t provide the usual time or opportunities to evaluate player performance, but it was long enough for some players and to make big impressions on their peers.

Jason Foster

Clayton Kershaw injury update: Dodgers star to start vs. Braves in NLCS Game 4

Clayton Kershaw, who was scratched from Game 2 with a bad back, will start Game 4 of the NLCS for the Dodgers.

Billy Heyen

Jose Altuve's apparent case of yips has Astros on brink of elimination

Jose Altuve appears to have the yips, and his throwing errors have the Astros in a 3-0 hole to the Rays in the ALCS.

Billy Heyen

Braves reliever Mark Melancon can't stop catching Ozzie Albies' home runs

Braves reliever Mark Melancon has caught a home run from teammate Ozzie Albies in the left-field bullpen in both games of the NLCS against the Dodgers.

Billy Heyen

How the trading card industry has boomed during the pandemic

There's only so much Netflix a sports fan can watch to fill time. Enter a rejuvenated trading card market.

Ryan Fagan

Dodgers' Walker Buehler ends interview after being asked about his tight pants

The Dodgers pitcher was mocked on social media for his very tight pants.

Jordan Heck

Max Fried's Game 1 gem had shades of another Braves lefty's NLCS brilliance

Atlanta gets six strong innings from its postseason No. 1 starter in a series-opening victory over the Dodgers.

Tom Gatto

Padres' Pham recovering from stab wound

The outfielder reportedly was stabbed after asking people who were arguing near his vehicle to move.

Tom Gatto

Who will be the next White Sox manager? Five candidates for job after Rick Renteria's departure

Chicago South made a surprising move, cutting bait with Rick Renteria. Where the Sox go next is very intriguing.

Joe Rivera

How the Braves can beat the Dodgers in the NLCS

The Dodgers are the heavy favorite, but this is October and anything can happen. Braves fans and Dodgers fans both know this well.

Ryan Fagan

What do the Yankees do now? Questions New York must answer this offseason

As per usual, it starts with the rotation for the Yankees, who have lots of work to do in that area before 2021.

Joe Rivera

Rays' Mike Brosseau gets ultimate payback with ALDS-winning homer

Tampa Bay found an unlikely hero Friday night in an unheralded pinch hitter.

Dan Bernstein

Jackie Robinson's family 'strongly objects' to Donald Trump using MLB player's image in ad

Jackie Robinson's daughter asked for her father's image to be removed from Donald Trump's commercial.

Jordan Heck

Padres fell short in 2020, but franchise playoff window is propped wide open

San Diego will be back — and better.

Ryan Fagan

Newer Latest News Older