MLB The Show 25 Franchise Discussion

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Conforto Inks Team Friendly Deal
October 30, 2029

As expected, Michael Conforto will be rejoining the Mets for his 15th and final season. He signed for 1 year/$600k. It will officially be his final season, which he announced on Instagram alongside the news of his signing.

Conforto has put together a Hall of Fame career in Flushing. In 2,010 games he's slashed .285/.377/.587 with 2,054 H, 512 HR, 584 2B, and 1,367 RBI. He's been named the NL MVP twice. He's won 6 world championships. In short, he's the greatest Met in franchise history.

At this point of his career, Conforto is the left handed bat in a platoon. He is still very effective against righties, but has become unplayable against lefties. This season he split time in left with Alexis Quevedo. Going into next season, the Mets are hoping to use him as a pinch hitter and veteran presence in the dugout. They'll need to find a more complete player in left to get back to the World Series.

Let's hope the Mets can give Conforto a proper sendoff in 2030.

Free Agency Outlook

Conforto was the only Met who re-signed with the team before hitting the open market. Not exactly a surprise.

They'll now turn their own eyes to see what pieces they can add to improve the roster. There are clear holes in the outfield and the rotation. It will be interesting to see whether they feel they have the players already in house or if they need to make a splash in free agency.

If Rafael Devers and Sean Machado sign elsewhere, the Mets will be without their cleanup hitter and their CY Young pitcher heading into the start of the next decade. Those are pretty significant holes that need to be filled. Not to mention Steve Roy, who finished the season as the team's closer.

For a team that has been consistently at the top of the NL for the past 13 years, there are a lot of questions headed into next season.

[Arkansas Ranger]

Texas Rangers Season 4 MOM update

Spring Training has come to an end and the Texas Rangers will begin their quest to recover from a 66 win season. Here is the original 26 we are looking at

C Kirk/ Marchan no change from last year
1b N. Lowe a return to Texas via fa
2b L. Jimenez fa signing who won the job in spring
SS Seagar returning after missing last season with acl tear
3b I Parades fa signing
Lf A Verdugo fa signing
CF Will Brennan
RF Kyle Tucker

Pitchers Starters
Bradford
Manning
Leo Rodriguez 2nd year rookie
Brian Sammons
Brad Miller aquired last year in rule 5

Relief
Zac Jackson 3 seasons of over 30 saves
Caleb Ferguson fa signing
Matt Festa
Nick Sandlin fa signing
Dennis Santana fa signing
Walter Pennington
Rafael Soriano
Nate Hoffman 2nd year rookie

[Itsma806]

2025 Houston Astros 09/15-09/17

Overall Record: 76-77 (3rd AL West/10.0 Behind Texas Rangers/5.5 behind 3rd WC Spot (Mariners 81-71) )

Game Results:

Game 1
Rangers-4
Astros-3

Game 2
Astros-12
Rangers-11

Game 3
Astros-2
Rangers-0

Astros miracle game two win keeps wildcard hopes alive.

The Astros are playing well in September but have at this point, been eliminated from contention in the AL West. Their wildcard hopes are slim but still alive and in their next series, they will have a chance to heighten them.

In their most recent series, they won two of three against the probable AL West champion Texas Rangers in what could be described only as a miracle. In fact, Houston wasnt far off from taking the series in a sweep but fell just short thanks to an extra innings 4-3 loss in game one.

That loss and the start of game two could have certainly made the Astros lose all hope for the series and the season as whole.

As mentioned, Houston fought in game one but fell just short after the game entered extras tied 2-2 only for Bryan King to give up two runs in the top half of the tenth and the Astros failing to make those runs up, scoring only one in their half of the inning to take the loss, 4-3.

Game 2 started off in the worst way for Houston with Hunter Brown getting absolutely shelled as he gave up 7 runs, 8 hits and 1 walk in just 1.0 innings. His replacement, Luis Garcia wasnt great but better as he pitches 6.0, gave up 10 hits, 4 runs and 3 walks while he struck out 3.

Texas' lead reached 11 in the fourth inning at 11-0 and really, no one could blame the Astros if they just mailed it in and took the rest of the game off but thankfully, they didnt.

The Astros proceeded to score 11 of their own unanswered runs in between the 4th and 8th innings that concluded with Brendan Rodgers' 11th of the season that tied it at 11 in that 8th inning. Then, both teams failed to score in the 9th to send the game to extras for the second game in a row.

Hader pitched the 10th for Houston in the non-save situation and did not allow a run.

That was followed up by what is likely the MLB's biggest comeback of the season as the goat, Jose Altuve singled in Chas Mccormick for the walkoff 12-11 win.

Now if that doesnt build momentum, I dont know what will.

Game three was another excellent start for Ronel Blanco who became the first AL pitcher to reach 200K strikeouts in what was an abbreviated outing by his standards (5.0 innings due to usage). While the Astros scored two before his removal from the game off of a Yordan Alvarez rbi sac fly in the the first and Christian Walker's 30th HR of the season in the fourth inning. Then, the bullpen followed up Blanco's solid start as they also kept Texas from crossing the plate as Houston took the game 2-0 and the series, 2-1.

Maybe the coolest story of the series was Luke Jackson who pitched 2.2 innings in relief of Blanco as he struck out 7 of the 10 batters he faced. Texas waived Luke earlier in the season and Houston picked him up,

Now, how can Houston help their playoff chances in their upcoming series? Well, they face Seattle in Houston the Mariners (81-71/2nd AL West) currently hold the last wildcard spot and are 5.5 games over Houston. Unfortunately, even if Houston can pull off a sweep, they will also be helping out the Tigers, Rays, Yankees and Royals who also sit above them in the race.

It's been known for a while but Houston's chances are slim at this point, even winning the rest of the games may not get them into the postseason but really, thats all they can do to give themselves a chance.

[jamm113]

🏟️ SPORTSCENTER RECAP: RAYS WALK OFF THE TWINS IN FRONT OF 8,832
Tuesday Night Baseball | Tropicana Field | Rays 2, Twins 1

“The Rays may still be looking up in the standings—but they’re starting to find their stride.”

After a sluggish May, the Tampa Bay Rays pulled off a thrilling 2–1 walk-off win over the Minnesota Twins thanks to late-inning heroics and a breakout performance from one of their struggling arms.


---

⚾ Game Summary

Second pitch, loud contact. That’s how the night began for Ryan Pepiot, who served up a leadoff homer to Harrison Bader. But that was the only mistake he made all night.

Pepiot, finally dealing. After a brutal start to the year (0–5, 5.80 ERA entering tonight), the righty turned in a gem: 6 innings, 1 earned run, 8 strikeouts, 0 walks, retiring the last four hitters via strikeout to end his night on a dominant note.

Offense? Late bloomers. The Rays’ bats remained quiet against Chris Paddack—who continued his All-Star campaign with 5 shutout innings, 3 hits, 6 strikeouts. But the Twins bullpen couldn’t hold the lead.

Bottom 7th: Richie Palacios (3rd HR of the year) turned a 1–0 deficit into a tie with a solo shot off Danny Coulombe, igniting a dormant Tropicana crowd.

Bottom 9th: Christopher Morel, platooning from the right side, took Griffin Jax deep to the opposite field for a solo walk-off homer—his first of the season, capping a 2-for-4 night.

Rays bullpen came up huge. Garrett Clevinger entered in the 7th and delivered 4 outs with 2 Ks, escaping a tough spot. Cole Sulser followed with a perfect frame to earn the win and lower his ERA to 2.45.

Twins debutant Walker Jenkins went 0-for-3 with a strikeout. Minnesota mustered just six hits and struck out 10 times without drawing a walk.


---

🗣️ POSTGAME INTERVIEWS

🎙️ Christopher Morel – Walk-Off Hero

Morel (now batting .287/.350/.362) has quietly been a spark plug vs. right-handed pitching.

SC Anchor: Christopher, your first homer of the year, and it wins the game. How’d it feel?

Morel: “Man… it felt like I was flying around the bases. I’ve been working on staying up the middle and not trying to do too much. I got a fastball up, and I knew it had a chance.”

SC Anchor: You’re platooning, but you’ve been red hot. What’s the mindset?

Morel: “Every at-bat counts. Whether I get two games in a row or come off the bench, I want to bring energy. And hey, that one felt good.”


---

🎙️ Ryan Pepiot – Bounces Back Big

Entering tonight: 0–5, 5.80 ERA, 1.73 WHIP
Tonight: 6 IP, 1 ER, 8 K, 0 BB

SC Anchor: Ryan, you’ve had a rough stretch. What changed tonight?

Pepiot: “I simplified. Fastball command was there, and I trusted my changeup more than I have all year. After that homer, I told myself, ‘settle in and compete.’”

SC Anchor: You retired the last four via strikeout. You feeling that groove?

Pepiot: “That was me saying ‘enough is enough.’ I know I’ve got better stuff than what the numbers show. I’m ready to turn the page.”


---

🎙️ Garrett Clevinger – Stepping Up

Clevinger’s ERA sat at 7.84 entering tonight, but his 1.1 shutout innings showed signs of a turnaround.

SC Anchor: Garrett, great work tonight. How did it feel to be part of a shutdown bullpen effort?

Clevinger: “Honestly? It felt overdue. I’ve had a rough year. But this was a step in the right direction. I just focused on each pitch, stayed ahead in counts, and trusted my slider.”

SC Anchor: The team’s been inconsistent, but the last few games have shown fight.

Clevinger: “Yeah, man. We’re not folding. There’s still a long season ahead. If we keep pitching like this? We’re gonna make noise.”


---

📊 AROUND THE LEAGUE HEADLINES

Dodgers (39–16) keep rolling with their 7th straight win, demolishing the Guardians 14–5.

Tigers (32–24) stay hot behind Tarik Skubal's 5th win, beating the Giants 5–1.

Cardinals (27–28) torch the Orioles (30–25) with a 14–5 rout on the road.

Brewers (30–26) blank the Red Sox (29–28) behind Brandon Woodruff’s shutout.

White Sox (19–32) stun the Mets (32–23) in Queens.



---

🔢 AL EAST STANDINGS

Team Record Last 10

Yankees 39–24 8–2
Orioles 30–25 5–5
Red Sox 29–28 2–8
Rays 21–33 6–4
Blue Jays 21–34 3–7



---

🔥 FINAL THOUGHTS

With a 6–4 stretch in their last 10, the Rays are beginning to show signs of life. Morel’s heroics, Pepiot’s bounce-back, and improved bullpen show that this young, scrappy team may not be done just yet. And with Jonathan Aranda expected back soon and prospect JJ Wells drawing eyes, Tampa’s youth movement could still turn some heads as summer heats up.

[bigjdotcom01]

June 16-19: LAS VEGAS (26-48) @ CHANDLER (40-34)
Stadium: Desert Financial Field (Capacity: 11,145)

June 16: Chiefs 9, Silver Kings 2
June 17: Chiefs 7, Silver Kings 6
June 18: Chiefs 9, Silver Kings 4
June 19: Chiefs 12, Silver Kings 3

Chandler, AZ (AP) - Just as it appeared as though Las Vegas was starting to heat up, they ran into a freight train in Chandler as the Chiefs hit 16 home runs in a four game sweep, outscoring the Silver Kings 37-15. The Silver Kings finished the road trip at (2-5) as the season continues to spiral.

The Chiefs opened up the four game series by using the long ball to power a 9-2 victory. Chandler hit six home runs in the game including two each from Jose Valdez and Phil Russ.

Chandler went up 1-0 in the second on a Phil Russ solo home run.

Las Vegas tied it up in the third on a solo home run from Gilberto Cardona (9). The Silver Kings would take the lead in the fourth on a David Tejeda solo home run (10).

Phil Russ hit his second home run of the game, a two-run shot in the bottom of the fourth to put Chandler up 3-2. In the bottom of the seventh, Jose Valdez hit a two-run home run to put Chandler up 5-2 and end the night for Emery Hutchinson. Martin Villegas came on a gave up a solo home run to Demetrius Friedberg, his ninth, and it was 6-2. Jose Valdez would add a three-run home run in the eighth off of John Sato as Chandler blew this one open at 9-2.

Estevan Cabrera (9-3) picked up the win, tossing six innings and allowing two runs on five hits, striking out seven. Emery Hutchinson (5-6) took the loss, pitching six plus innings, allowing five runs (four earned) on nine hits, striking out five.

After hitting six home runs on Monday night, the Chiefs followed that up by hitting five on Tuesday evening in a 7-6 come-from-behind victory. Jose Valdez once again blasted two home runs, has four in the series, and eight on the season.

Las Vegas went up 1-0 in the first inning on a Mariano Hidalgo RBI single that scored Eric Machado. A Vladimir Escalera solo home run in the second put the Silver Kings up 2-0.

Chandler responded with three in the bottom of the second. Jose Valdez hit his first home run of the game, a two-run shot to tie the game at 2-2. After a Will Robinson double, Darryl Nair singled to right and the Chiefs went up 3-2.

A Danny Watt monster home run in the third tied the game back up at 3-3. The ball had an exit velocity of 109 mph and the ball traveled 455 feet. Alfonso Rosales answered right back in the bottom half with a 424 foot home run of his own to put Chandler back in front.

A David Tejeda solo home run in the top of the fifth tied the game back up at 4-4. But in the bottom half, Vaughn Bellamy hit a solo home run to put Chandler back up 5-4. Las Vegas responded with two in the top of the sixth to retake the lead 6-5. Todd Matsumoto singled home Russell O'Reilly, who had doubled. David Tejeda singled home Matsumoto to give Las Vegas the lead.

It would stay that way until the bottom of the eighth. Las Vegas brought on Russ Zickafoose. He struck out Klein, then gave up back-to-back home runs to Phil Russ and Jose Valdez. It was Russ' third home run of the series and 13^th on the year.

Closer Reese O'Farrell locked down the Silver Kings in the ninth to pick up his 23^rd save in as many chances. Russ Zickafoose (1-3) took the loss. Antoine Swanger had a rough outing for Las Vegas, only lasting five innings and allowing five runs on ten hits.

On Wednesday evening, the Chiefs once again used the long ball to beat the Silver Kings. This time a 9-4 win, allowed Chandler to win their third straight game.

This one was scorless into the fourth. Vaughn Bellamy led off with a monster 483 foot bomb to center (17) to give the Chiefs the lead. A double by Sean Klein and an RBI single from Phil Russ made it 2-0. The Chiefs would add three more in the fifth on a three-run bomb from Klein, his ninth.

Las Vegas responded with four in the top of the seventh to cut it to 5-4. Caden Juarez hit a solo home run, his 12^th, to leadoff the frame. Russell O'Reilly added an RBI single and Eric Machado hit a two-run home run, his 10^th.

But the bullpen once again could do nothing, allowing two runs in both the seventh and eighth, as Chandler cruised to the victory. Alfonzo Rosales and Vaughn Bellamy had RBI doubles in the seventh. Jose Valdez added an RBI double in the eighth.

Jude Vernon (2-1) took the loss, allowing five runs on seven hits in five innings of work. He struck out four and walked two. Vernon Lorenz (4-5) got the win for Chandler. Reese O'Farrell picked up his 24^th save as he came in to get the final out in the eighth and worked a 1-2-3 ninth.

In Thursday afternoon's finale, the Chiefs hit three more home runs, scoring ten runs in the first three innings as they cruised to a 12-3 victory to complete the four game sweep. Alfonzo Rosales went 3 for 4 with a home run, three RBIs and three runs scored to lead Chandler in the blowout win.

Steve Sechrist (1-8) was pounded in this one, only lasting three innings and allowing ten runs on nine hits, striking out four and walking two. He has now lost eight straight decisions.

There isn't much to say about this one as Chandler scored four in the first, three in the second and three in the third.

Eric Machado went 2 for 4 with a double, run scored and two more stolen bases to increase his league lead to 38.

Richie Sherr (5-5) picked up the easy win for Chandler. He went seven innings, allowing three runs on eight hits.

Las Vegas now returns home for a ten game home stand against Oakland (32-43), Gilbert (40-36), and West Texas (33-43) to finish off the month of June. With the four game sweep, Chandler (40-34) moved into first place in the DL East in a tight four team race with 1.5 games separating the four teams. Las Vegas (26-48) is now 22.5 games back of first place Tahoe.

Around the League: Fort Worth's Neil Schmidt (8,9) and Damian Huff (12,13) each homered twice as the Drillers beat first-place San Antonio 10-3. The red-hot Drillers have pulled to within two games of the Javelinas in the DL East.

St George's Mariano Tejada drew a bases loaded walk in the bottom of the ninth as St George walked it off, scoring four times to stun Surprise 4-3. Gilberto Montalvo was brought in with the bases loaded and none out after closer Vince Wilson had given up three run on three hits. But Montalvo walked Tejeda to give the Archers the victory.

Tahoe completed a four game sweep of Oakland on Thursday afternoon with a 7-5 victory to run their winning streak to eight games. Mark Peyton (10-2) tossed seven innings, allowing three runs on six hits, striking out four. Robby Lancaster went 2 for 4 with a double, driving in four runs in the victory.

San Diego stays red hot as they took two of three from Scottsdale to remain just three back of Tahoe in the DL West. The Seals have now won 16 of their last 18.

Chandler's Jose Valdez hit five home runs in the four game series.

[jamm113]

ESPN MLB Recap — May 31st, 2025 “Bradley’s No-No Caps May for Surging Rays”

By: ESPN Staff Writer
Attendance is down, the stakes are up, and the Tampa Bay Rays just found new life heading into June.

After a grim 23–35 finish to May, the Tampa Bay Rays might be below the surface in the AL East, but if the past week is any indication, there’s plenty of fight left in St. Pete.

Bradley’s Brilliance: A No-Hitter for the History Books

The month closed with a bang—Taj Bradley tossed a no-hitter against the Houston Astros, striking out 7 and walking 3 over 9 spectacular innings. With chants echoing in the half-filled stadium, Bradley mowed through the Astros' lineup, backed by home runs from Junior Caminero and Matt Thaiss. It was just the fourth no-hitter in Rays history and the first since 2019.

“Honestly, I felt the adrenaline, but I just stuck to the glove,” said Bradley. “Big credit to Thaiss for guiding me through.”

The win salvaged a grueling series in Houston that saw the Rays cough up a four-run lead in Game 1 and drop Game 2 behind a rough start from Shane Baz. But with Bradley’s gem, Tampa heads into June with some fire.


---

The Homestand That Ignited Hope

Before heading to Houston, the Rays swept the .500 Minnesota Twins in impressive fashion. Game 1 was a dramatic 2–1 walk-off victory thanks to a Christopher Morel solo shot in the 9th, capping a 2-for-4 day. Game 2? Pure domination: 12–0, as Zack Littell went 7 scoreless, and Junior Caminero, Brandon Lowe, and Morel homered. Yandy Díaz added to his All-Star campaign with a two-hit day.

The sweep lifted the Rays to 6–4 in their last 10 and helped offset what had otherwise been a dismal month.


---

May by the Numbers: A Tale of Two Rays

The offense continues to hinge on a handful of names:

Yandy Díaz (.303 AVG, 12 HR, 38 RBI) continues to be the glue of the offense.

Junior Caminero (.279 AVG, 7 HR) is finding his rhythm, homering in three of the last five games.

Jose Caballero (17 SB) leads the American League in stolen bases.

Christopher Morel (.284 AVG) has quietly become a lefty specialist and late-inning hero.


But others have struggled. Jake Mangum (.232 AVG), Chandler Simpson (.220 AVG), and a shallow bench have forced the team into creative platoons.

On the mound, it’s been a Jekyll-and-Hyde story:

Bradley (5–4, 3.76 ERA), Baz (5–3, 3.84), and Rasmussen (4–4, 3.95) are giving this team a chance to compete every five days.

The bullpen? Not so much. Once-closer Pete Fairbanks (8.56 ERA) lost the ninth-inning role, while Garrett Clevinger (7.84 ERA) has been shaky.

Bright spots include Kevin Kelly (3.03 ERA), Mason Englert (2.91 ERA), and recent call-up Alex Faedo (0.00 ERA).



---

League Snapshot: May Madness

The Dodgers (40–18), Phillies (41–17), and Cubs (39–19) are setting the pace league-wide.

In the AL East, the Yankees (33–24) have opened a gap, while the Red Sox have spiraled (2–8 in last 10). The Rays, though still last, are only two back of Toronto and within striking distance of Boston.

The AL MVP race is heating up behind Corey Seager (18 HR), Randy Arozarena (.323 AVG with SEA), and Jordan Westburg (50 RBI).

Meanwhile, Jacob Wilson (.355 AVG) and Kyle Schwarber (18 HR) are making NL headlines.


---

Injuries and Trades Shaking the League

Pablo Lopez (MIN) and Edwin Díaz (NYM) hit the IL with significant injuries.

Mariners added Michael Lorenzen, while the Cubs picked up Hunter Harvey in a surprise late-May deal.


In Tampa, Eloy Jiménez, Kameron Misner, and Jonny DeLuca headline a quietly long IL list, though most injuries are short term.


---

Minor League Watch

Willy Vasquez (.302, AA) and Xavier Isaac (.315, AAA) are knocking loudly on the door.

Ian Seymour (6–0, 1.97 ERA) may be a few starts away from joining a shaky bullpen.

Eric Orze (AAA RP, 2.55 ERA) could also be the next man up.



---

Looking Ahead: June Showdown

June brings no breathers. Series vs. the Rangers, Marlins, Red Sox (away), Mets (away), Orioles (home & away), Tigers, and Royals (away) await.

Tampa will need to be aggressive — both on the bases and on the trade wire — if they hope to claw back into the wild card picture. A .500 June could change everything.

Final Word

They’re still under .500, the bullpen is a coin flip, and attendance is bottom of the league — but the Rays are fighting. With Taj Bradley dealing, Junior Caminero heating up, and new blood on the way, Tampa Bay heads into June with the spark of a team that believes it's not done yet.

🔔 Next Game: Rays vs Astros (Game 4) — Can they build on Bradley’s brilliance?

[jamm113]

Rays Recap – June 1st, 2025


“Pepiot Shines, Caballero Slams as Rays Split in Houston”
By: ESPN Staff Writer

Don’t look now, but the Tampa Bay Rays are stringing together something that resembles momentum.

After being punched in the mouth in the first two games of the Houston series, the Rays responded with back-to-back dominant wins, capped off by an 8–1 victory over the Astros. The offense exploded for three home runs, and Ryan Pepiot — who entered the game winless on the year — finally got off the schneid in dominant fashion.

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Pepiot’s Redemption Performance


Pepiot (1–5) was in complete control for 6.1 innings, allowing just 4 hits, 1 run, and 2 walks while striking out 7.

“Man, I needed that,” said Pepiot postgame. “I’ve been fighting my mechanics, second-guessing myself, and today everything just clicked. Credit to the staff, they really helped me simplify my approach.”

He was backed by Yandy Díaz’s 13th homer of the year and Junior Caminero’s scorching bat — his 9th of the season. The biggest blow, however, came off the bat of Jose Caballero, who launched a grand slam in the 8th inning, blowing the game wide open.

The Rays tagged Astros starter Ryan Gusto (1–7) for 2 runs in 5.2 innings, then pounced on relievers Kaleb Ort and Bryan King for 6 more.

---

🎲 Random Personal Scenario:


Player: Brandon Lowe
Event: Finishes Master’s Degree in Environmental Science from University of Maryland

During the Rays’ off-day earlier in the week, Brandon Lowe walked the stage virtually to receive his Master’s in Environmental Science — a project he’d quietly worked on during the 2023–2025 offseasons.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to finish,” Lowe said. “Baseball is what I love, but this gives me purpose outside of the game. I want to make a difference, especially in coastal communities.”

Impact:
This boost to mental clarity and life balance has a positive effect. Over the next few weeks, Lowe sees a bump in plate discipline (slight uptick in BB%) and a more even-keel presence in clutch moments.

• +5 Plate Discipline
• +2 Durability (long-term effect)

---

🔧 Pitching Rebound Since Coaching Change


It’s not just the hitters — the Rays’ rotation has looked rejuvenated since parting ways with former pitching coach Kyle Snyder in mid-May and promoting veteran developmental coach Ben Hines from Triple-A Durham.

Since the change, the team’s ERA has dropped from 4.62 to 3.28, and three of the five main starters — Taj Bradley, Ryan Pepiot, and Shane Baz — have logged quality starts in 6 of their last 7 outings.

---

Inside the Turnaround

Manager Kevin Cash:

“Ben brings clarity. It’s less about overanalyzing spin rates and more about command and intent. He lets pitchers trust their stuff.”

Ben Hines, new pitching coach:

“A lot of these guys are power arms. But if they don’t believe in their secondary pitches or have no plan, you get nibbling and walks. We simplified pitch sequences, emphasized fastball efficiency, and — this is key — confidence-building work in bullpens.”

Taj Bradley (5–4, 3.76 ERA):

“He didn’t try to ‘fix’ me. He asked me what I liked throwing and built around that. The no-hitter? I knew exactly what I was doing each pitch.”

Ryan Pepiot:

“Ben told me to stop ‘aiming’ and start competing. I was scared to make mistakes. That mindset shift alone changed everything.”

---

📊 Pitching Since Coaching Change (Mid-May On):

Taj Bradley	4.18	3.12	No-hitter, 3 QS in last 4
Shane Baz	4.01	3.28	Command improving (1 BB last 2 GS)
Drew Rasmussen	3.95	3.70	Back-to-back QS
Zack Littell	4.33	3.99	7 IP shutout vs MIN
Ryan Pepiot	5.80	4.66	6.1 IP, 1 ER vs HOU

Even the bullpen has steadied slightly. Kevin Kelly remains consistent, while Alex Faedo’s clean early work could earn him more high-leverage opportunities.

---

What’s Next:


The Rays head into a pivotal June stretch with a bit of swagger. At 24–35, they remain at the bottom of the AL East but are just four games out of a Wild Card spot.

With series against the Rangers, Marlins, Red Sox, Mets, and Orioles coming up, it’s make-or-break time.

“We’re not dead,” said Cash. “There’s a lot of ball left. And we’re finally starting to look like the club we believed in during Spring.”

---

📍 Stay tuned as the Rays look to build on a series split and climb back into the postseason picture. And keep an eye on Brandon Lowe — he’s smarter now, and maybe even more dangerous.

[Itsma806]

2025 Houston Astros 09/19-09/21

Overall Record:78-78

Game Results:

Game 1
Astros-3
Mariners-1

Game 2
Mariners-6
Astros-1

Game 3
Astros-6
Mariners-5

Houston still alive with series win over Seattle.

The Astros have been fighting an uphill battle for a while now and each loss gets them closer to missing the postseason for the first time since 2016. But, they continue to fight and currently hold a 12-8 record in the final month of the regular season. That was improved with their recent 2-1 series victory over those pesky Mariners who currently hold the 2nd WC spot in the AL.

Surprisingly, the Astros calling card, the homerun was non existent in the Mariners series as won the series despite being outscored, 11-10.

Going into the final six games of the year, Houston really doesnt have control of their own faith but as mentioned before, all they can do is win.

The Astros will look to keep it going as they hit the road to end the season. First up is the 60-96 Athletics (5th AL West).

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Mets Land RF Elvis Valido, 3 Years/$75M
November 9, 2029

The Mets got their guy. As much as the Mets are thrilled to be returning Michael Conforto to their outfield, his age and decline in production doesn't exactly make him the answer that he once was. And while Nick Karnitz strung together a great season once he was called up, the Mets have questions at both corner outfield spots. Well, had.

Valido is a familiar face having spent the first 6 years of his career with Atlanta. In 2029 he had an OPS of .862 and smashed 38 HR with 102 RBI. Exactly the type of production the Mets are looking for. This signing essentially puts an end to any possibility that 3B Rafael Devers returns to New York.

The Mets offered more AAV than any other team on the market, although for less years. Most teams came in with 4 or 5 year offers, but Valido opted for the higher AAV. He also has a player option for that third year, so he can retest the free agent market if he so chooses.

Valido will wear #22.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Lucas Giolito Signed For Rotation Depth
November 12, 2029

The Mets found the 2030 version of Luis Severino. Lucas Giolito signed a 1 year deal worth $3.2M. He spent the last 6 years in LA with the Angels. In 2029 he had a 3.95 ERA in 168.2 IP, while making 15 starts and 35 relief appearances.

The Mets learned this year that you can never have too much pitching depth. Don't be surprised if they make a move for one more MLB caliber depth piece. While their farm system is brimming with young talent, there isn't a lot of MLB ready arms to be called upon if needed. Giolito fits that mold perfectly.

Giolito will wear #45.

[srg84]

Hey there, I'm having trouble pinpointing a source for this - I'm tracking my franchise offline in Obsidian, and I would *like* to be able to save box scores but I'm aware you can't export those. Does anyone have any reliable methods for transcribing them for their own purposes?

Alternatively I guess I could use a scorecard and do that as I play :P but I'd like something that isn't so slow to put together and is text-based rather than images.

Thus far the best option I can think of is screenshots and transcribing later.

[jamm113]

ESPN.com | MLB Alternate Universe Coverage
“Morel Magic, Mangum Surge, and the Brandon Lowe Trade Watch: Rays Continue Their Tug-of-War with .500”
By: Jenna Ramirez – Senior MLB Insider
June 22, 2025

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Rays Rollercoaster Through Interleague Gauntlet


Just when the Tampa Bay Rays (27–40) appeared ready to make a move, they ran headfirst into elite arms, bullpen collapses, and flashes of brilliance — all in a maddeningly unpredictable two-week stretch.

Since our last update, the Rays were shut down by the Rangers, dropped two heartbreakers to the Marlins, avoided a sweep with a walk-off bomb from Christopher Morel, and split the first two against the surging Red Sox.

The question heading into Sunday’s rubber match: Are the Rays contenders quietly waking up, or sellers in disguise?

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Rays vs Rangers: Pain in Texas

• Game 1: Rays 0, Rangers 5
  Jack Leiter shoved, striking out 8 over 7 shutout innings. Tampa’s offense went hitless in key spots, producing zero extra-base hits. Zack Littell (2–6) was rocked for 5 runs in 4 innings, pushing his ERA north of 5.00.
• Game 2: Rays 1, Rangers 5
  Nathan Eovaldi matched Leiter’s dominance with 7 innings of one-run ball. Jake Mangum drove in the only run with a double and triple — the only signs of life offensively. Drew Rasmussen took the loss despite a respectable 6 IP, 3 ER performance.
• Game 3: Rays 6, Rangers 5
  A game for the highlight reel. The Rays erased a late deficit with a 3-run 8th, then walked it off with 2 outs in the 9th on Christopher Morel’s moonshot. Kevin Kelly nearly lost it all in the 9th with an inside-the-park HR by Evan Carter, but the offense bailed him out. Shane Baz labored through 4.1 IP, giving up 4 runs.

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Marlins Series: Brilliant Pitching, Bitter Results

• Game 1: Rays 0, Marlins 1 (10 innings)
  Taj Bradley followed up his no-hitter with a 7-inning, 1-hit masterpiece, striking out 8. But the offense stranded 11 runners. Andrew Wantz lost in extras as Liam Hicks drove in the ghost runner. The bullpen kept it close for 3 innings before cracking.
• Game 2: Rays 4, Marlins 5
  Another squandered effort. Jake Mangum went 2–4 again, Caminero added a double, but Yandy Díaz went 0–5 as his cold spell continued (.288 avg, down from .301 two weeks ago). Pepiot gave up 9 hits in 4.1 IP, and Kevin Kelly (3.01 ERA) took the loss in the 7th.
• Game 3: Rays 7, Marlins 2
  A 6-run 7th inning explosion reversed the energy. Mangum drove in two more, Díaz broke his slump with a 3-run shot (his 14th), and Brandon Lowe continued his hot streak with another bomb. Littell was solid for 5 IP, while Faedo earned the win with 2.2 shutout innings.

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Red Sox Series: Lights-Out & Lights-On

• Game 1: Rays 0, Red Sox 2
  Walker Buehler silenced the Rays with a complete game 2-hit shutout. Not much more to say — the offense was simply flat.
• Game 2: Rays 4, Red Sox 3
  Shane Baz (4.91 ERA) tossed 6 quality innings, and the bullpen trio of Kelly, Wantz, and Fairbanks slammed the door shut. Wantz (3.1 IP, 0 ER in last 2 appearances) earned the win. Josh Lowe homered, and Jake Mangum continued to surge, raising his AVG to .247.

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🔁 Trade Watch: Brandon Lowe’s Value Surges


After rejecting an offer from the Angels (24-year-old RHP Jack Kochanowicz, 69 OVR), Rays GM Peter Bendix noted that interest in Brandon Lowe (now slashing .264/.338/.508) is “increasing weekly.” With 12 HRs and steady veteran presence, Lowe may be the most movable piece — if the Rays fall further back in the Wild Card chase.

Bendix: “We’re not shopping him, but we’re listening. We owe it to the long-term vision.”

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🔮 Random Scenario: GM Peter Bendix Takes Leave of Absence


In a surprise announcement this morning, the Rays confirmed General Manager Peter Bendix will take a personal leave of absence, effective immediately.

“This is a family-related decision, and I’ll be stepping away for a few weeks. I have full trust in our front office to continue executing our plan,” Bendix said in a statement.

Impact:

• Assistant GM Carlos Ingram will serve as interim GM, and is considered more aggressive on the trade front.
• Expect internal evaluations on Lowe, Rasmussen, and relievers like Faedo to ramp up as the All-Star break nears.
• Speculation swirls around a potential shake-up at the MLB Draft table — though the scouting on SP Sean Wilson (projected 58–71 OVR, 76–88 POT) is already complete.

---

📈 Trending Up:

• Jake Mangum: Now hitting .247 with 8 extra-base hits in his last 10 games. His defense and energy have made him a fan favorite.
• Andrew Wantz: 0.00 ERA in 11.2 IP, 12 Ks, 4 H — emerging as a late-inning option.
• Christopher Morel: Leads the team with 4 walk-offs, including two in the last 3 weeks.

📉 Trending Down:

• Yandy Díaz: Slumping heavily, just 4-for-30 in the last week, average dipped to .288.
• Zack Littell: Inconsistent outings and rising ERA put his rotation spot in question.
• Pete Fairbanks: No earned runs in last two, but command issues persist (4 BB in 2 IP).

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🔭 Looking Ahead:


The Rays (27–40) close out the Red Sox series Sunday before facing the Mets and Orioles next. With trade buzz increasing and a GM shake-up behind the scenes, this stretch could determine whether Tampa reloads or rebuilds.

“We’re close. The record doesn’t show it, but the room feels it,” said Cash. “Now it’s about turning that feeling into wins — or seeing what changes we need to make.”

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📌 Stay locked on ESPN.com for live trade rumors, scouting updates, and player development insight as Tampa’s season teeters between revival and reset.

[bigjdotcom01]

June 20-22: OAKLAND (33-45) @ LAS VEGAS (28-49)
Stadium: Bally's Ballpark (Capacity: 26,976)

June 20: Silver Kings 10, Oaks 3
June 21: Silver Kings 4, Oaks 1
June 22: Oaks 4, Silver Kings 2 (11)

Las Vegas, NV (AP) - Las Vegas took two of three from Oakland in a battle of the bottom two teams in the Desert League West.

In the opener of the nine game home stand, Las Vegas came through with a dominating 10-3 victory over Oakland to end their four game skid and send the Oaks to a seventh straight loss.

Mariano Hidalgo and Caden Juarez each went 2 for 4 with a double, home run and an RBI in the win.

Oakland would strike first in this one, scoring twice in the top of the first on a two-run home run from Riley Duffy off of Kevin Perez. It was Duffy's 11^th on the year and put Oakland up 2-0.

Las Vegas got one back in the second after Caden Juarez doubled and advanced to third on a ground out. Julio Chacon hit a sacrifice fly to center, allowing Juarez to score. Caden Juarez would homer in his next at bat in the fourth, his 13^th on the season and the game was tied at 2-2. Julio Chacon then doubled home Vladimir Escalera to put Las Vegas in front. Russell O'Reilly would reach on a throwing error by Willy Quezada, which allowed Chacon to score and the Silver Kings were up 4-2.

Las Vegas would add three more in the fifth. Eric Machado tripled to open the inning and scored on a Danny Watt sacrifice fly. Junior Maldonado (1) and Mariano Hidalgo (9) then hit back-to-back solo home runs to make it 7-2. Danny Watt added a two-run triple in the sixth to extend the Las Vegas lead to seven. A Vladimir Escalera ground out in the seventh, allowed Mariano Hidalgo to score to make it 10-2.

Oakland got one back in the eighth on a David Radatz RBI single that scored Roger Parra.

Kevin Perez (6-6) picked up the win and he pitched well, allowing three runs on five hits in seven plus innings. He struck out five and walked one. Rob Porter got the final six outs, allowing two hits and striking out three.

Louis Tabarne (4-8) took the loss for the Oaks. He lasted four plus innings, allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits, striking out two.

On Saturday evening, the Silver Kings got a great pitching performance from Emery Hutchinson and beat the Oaks 4-1. Hutchinson went seven innings, allowing one run on four hits, striking out four and walking one as he improved to (6-6) on the season.

Oakland jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the second. Riley Duffy singled to open the inning, then stole second. He advanced to third on a wild pitch and scored on a Robert McGaffick ground out.

Las Vegas would get on the board in the fourth. Mariano Hidalgo doubled to left with one out. Caden Juarez singled him home to tie the game at 1-1. Gilberto Cardona came through with a two-out RBI double to put the Silver Kings up 2-1. Mariano Hidalgo would hit a two-run home run to left in the fifth to make it 4-1. It was his 10^th on the season.

That was all that Emery Hutchinson would need. The bullpen was solid with Eric Herman sending down the Oaks in order in the eighth and Kai Ransom working a 1-2-3 ninth to pick up his sixth save.

David Tejeda went 2 for 3 with a double and run scored, extending his hitting streak to 14 games.

In the finale, Vince Martin took a no hitter into the eighth inning, but did not get a decision in a 4-2 extra innings victory for Oakland. Martin went 7.1 innings, allowing only a double to Vladimir Escalera, while striking out three.

Oakland would grab the lead in the top of the fifth on a two-out RBI single from Will Green.

Las Vegas waited until the bottom of the ninth to tie it up on a Julio Chacon RBI double. Oaks reliever John Frye worked out of a jam, stranding runners on second and third base to send the game to extra innings as he struck out David Tejeda and got Mariano Hidalgo to fly out.

After neither team could score in the tenth, Oakland pushed across three in the top of the 11^th, thanks in part to two Stephen Park errors and if not for some generosity from the official scorer, should have had three. Will Green doubled home Martin McGinnis to start the inning. Roger Parra then doubled home Green to make it 3-1. A Willy Quezada grounder to Park got booted, allowing Parra to come home with a fourth run. Park would boot another double play ball to keep the inning going. But Henry Coronado worked out of a bases loaded jam to end the inning.

In the bottom half, Eric Machado lined a pinch hit two-out RBI double to left to cut the lead to 4-2, and leave runners at second and third. David Tejeda came up with a chance to tie the game, with his 14 game hitting streak on the line, but he bounced out to second to end the game. Tejeda went 0 for 5 in the game.

Antoine Swanger tossed a gem in the loss, throwing nine innings and allowing one run on four hits, striking out 12 and walking one. Jeff McArthur (4-3) took the loss, allowing three runs (two earned) on three hits in 1.1 innings of work.

Las Vegas (28-49) will now host Gilbert (41-38) for a three game series, and then host West Texas (35-44) for three games to close out the nine game home stand.

Around the League: Glendale's MacKenzie Kwon (6-6) threw eight shutout innings, allowing just one hit, striking out five and walking five in a 4-0 victory for the Desert Dogs over Albuquerque.

Surprise scored two in the top of the tenth to end Tahoe's eight game winning streak with a 6-4 victory. William Banks hot a two-run home run in the tenth that proved to be the game winner for a Surprise team that is trying to stay in the DL Wild Card race at (38-37).

Fort Worth has moved into a tie atop the ML East with San Antonio after a 5-1 victory over Amarillo. The win was the Drillers eighth straight. Eli Sexson (10-3) earned the win, throwing eight innings and allowing one run on three hits, while striking out ten and walking three.

Mesa's Bobby Toth (8-6) tossed eight shutout innings, allowing two hits, striking out seven and walking four, as the Solar Sox cooled off red-hot Chandler 6-0 on Saturday evening. On Sunday afternoon, Julius Cox (7-4) tossed a complete game one-hitter, striking out five as Mesa beat the Chiefs 3-0. Alfonzo Rosales had the only hit for Chandler, a first inning single.

Fort Worth completed the three game sweep of Amarillo with a 2-1 victory on Sunday afternoon, running their winning streak to ten games.

Mariano Hidalgo homered twice in the series, driving in three, as Las Vegas took two of three from Oakland.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Mets Non-Tender Ayala and Salazar
November 16, 2029

The Mets will be moving on from 1B Reuben Ayala and LHP Johan Salazar.

Ayala, 37, started for 2.5 seasons in New York at first and was more than serviceable. He hit 22 HR in 2027 and 25 the following year, but as he got older he was becoming an all or nothing bat. In addition, his defense was really dropping off. The Mets DFA him in mid-June of 2029 to clear a path for 1B Ray Velazquez as they felt it was time for him to get an extended look.

Salazar, 32, joined the Mets in September due to injury. It was his first taste at the big league level and he did a fine job. However, the Mets aren't willing to pay him the MLB level salary required for him to be on the 40-man roster as they feel they have several younger (cheaper) options available.

The Mets wish Reuben and Johan the best of luck.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Mets Lock Up NIck Craven For Next 10 Years
November 20, 2029

The Mets have just handed out the longest contract in franchise history - a 10 year $145M deal to CF Nick Craven. The Mets have one of the game's bright young superstars, and they didn't waste any time signing him to a long term deal. The deal covers the next 4 arbitration years for Craven as well as his first 6 years of free agency eligibility.

Although the Mets are over paying in the first portion of the deal, they'll absolutely be saving money on the back end. If the Mets allowed him to hit free agency when he was originally eligbile, they would have been on the hook for $28M+ AAV if they wanted to keep him. New York operated similarly with 2B Steven Logan, buying out a few of his arbitration years for more money in the short term. However, that deal was for only 5 years. Craven's is double that.

Craven will be a free agent at age 36 and will hope to cash in on one more lucrative deal before his time in the majors is up.

Aaron Blair Joining Mets

RHP Aaron Blair is coming over from the division rival Phillies to give New York some additional pitching depth. He will be operating mostly in Syracuse this season, but can be called upon to start or come out of the bullpen. He's no stranger to this concept as he did exactly that in Philly this past season, where he pitched to a 3.53 ERA in 114.2 innings.

Blair will wear #51.