The New York Mets promoted veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel on Saturday, the team announced.  Kimbr...

The New York Mets promoted veteran reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1378">Craig Kimbrel</a> on Saturday, the team announced.Kimbrel signed a minor-league deal with the Mets in January. He's yet to pitch in the majors this season."It's a great opportunity just to come in here and try to help these guys out and throw up scoreless innings," Kimbrel said, according to <a href="https://x.com/SNY_Mets/status/2043005516020859270?s=20">SNY</a>. "Just happy to get the opportunity and see what I can do with it."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 37-year-old right-hander appeared in 14 games split between the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros in 2025.He owns a career 2.58 ERA with a 1.02 WHIP and 14 K/9 over 16 years. His 440 saves are second to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1563" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1563">Kenley Jansen</a> among active pitchers."I get an adrenaline boost every time I get an opportunity to pitch in a big-league ballgame," Kimbrel <a href="https://x.com/SNY_Mets/status/2043006116984963394?s=20">added</a>. "Someone told me a long time ago, as soon as that goes away, it's time to go home."Kimbrel is a nine-time All-Star, a World Series champion (2018 Boston Red Sox), the 2011 NL Rookie of the Year, and a four-time Reliever of the Year (2012, 2013, 2014, and 2017). His resume gives him a strong chance to be inducted into the Hall of Fame when his playing career is over.Left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9557" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9557">Richard Lovelady</a> was designated for assignment to make room for Kimbrel on the active roster.

JUPITER, FL - MARCH 06: New York Mets pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) prepares to throw the ball from the mound during a MLB spring training game against the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium on March 6, 2026 in Jupiter, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35198513/related

Mets call up former star reliever Kimbrel

The Detroit Tigers placed center fielder Parker Meadows on the 10-day injured list Friday with a ...

The Detroit Tigers placed center fielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10655" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10655">Parker Meadows</a> on the 10-day injured list Friday with a left radius fracture after he collided with teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12329" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12329">Riley Greene</a> in the eighth inning of Thursday's loss to the Minnesota Twins.Meadows also suffered a concussion and needed five stitches inside his mouth, according to <a href="https://x.com/EvanPetzold/status/2042679261908132177?s=20">Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press</a>. The 26-year-old doesn't have a timetable to return and is expected to miss significant time.Meadows and Greene crashed into each other after the two outfielders simultaneously went to make a play on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4609" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4609">Josh Bell</a>'s line drive. Greene held on for the catch, but Meadows fell to the ground and remained down for several minutes before being carted off the field.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Parker Meadows is carted off the field after a nasty collision in the outfield with Riley Greene <a href="https://t.co/5DCBp95WK9">pic.twitter.com/5DCBp95WK9</a>— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TalkinBaseball_/status/2042334973428900321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"When we got out there, it looked like he had bit his lip or inside his mouth, so there was some blood, and he was pretty out of it," manager A.J. Hinch said postgame, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/parker-meadows-and-riley-greene-collision">Jason Beck of MLB.com</a>.He added, "Those are scary collisions. You don't know what you're going to get when you get there. Obviously, we're going to get him checked out for everything, but this one worries me."Greene echoed similar sentiments."I haven't looked at it," Greene said, per <a href="https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/04/09/detroit-tigers-swept-by-minnesota-twins-parker-meadows-injured/89531093007/">Chris McCosky of The Detroit News</a>. "The ball was in between us, and we just collided. It's a terrible feeling. I'm just hoping Parker is OK. He hit my head. I don't know where I hit him. I really hope he's OK."Detroit recalled outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11079" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11079">Wenceel Pérez</a> from Triple-A to take Meadows' spot on the active roster.The Twins swept the Tigers in the four-game series.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 09: Parker Meadows #22 of the Detroit Tigers is carted off the field after colliding with teammate Riley Greene #31 (not pictured) in the eighth inning at Target Field on April 09, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Twins defeated the Tigers 3-1.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35178873/related

Tigers' Meadows out with broken arm, concussion after scary collision

Atlanta Braves right-hander Reynaldo López and Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Jorge Soler r...

Atlanta Braves right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5352" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5352">Reynaldo López</a> and Los Angeles Angels designated hitter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler</a> received seven-game suspensions for their roles in Tuesday's benches-clearing brawl, MLB announced Wednesday.López and Soler were also fined an undisclosed amount. Both players appealed their punishments.López already reached an agreement to have his ban reduced to five games, according to <a href="https://x.com/grantmcauley/status/2041982542421659872">Grant McAuley of 92.9 The Game</a>. The pitcher will begin serving the suspension immediately, which means he won't miss a start as a result of an off day.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Soler charged the mound after a high-and-tight pitch by López in the fifth inning, and the two players exchanged punches. Braves manager Walt Weiss helped end the melee by tackling Soler.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here’s what just took place in Anaheim: <a href="https://t.co/hL1myd5PJd">pic.twitter.com/hL1myd5PJd</a>— BravesVision (@BravesVisionTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/BravesVisionTV/status/2041717944049164300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>López threw punches at Soler while still holding the baseball.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
buddy got punched in the face with a baseball. <a href="https://t.co/mwzgpLYf0T">pic.twitter.com/mwzgpLYf0T</a>— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jared_Carrabis/status/2041877629712617964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Braves and Angels wrap up their three-game series Wednesday.

ANAHEIM, CA - APRIL 07: Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Jorge Soler (12) swings a punch at Atlanta Braves pitcher Reynaldo Lopez (40) on the mound as home plate umpire Edwin Moscoso trails the play during the MLB game between the Atlanta Braves and the Los Angeles Angels on April 7, 2026 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35169257/related

Braves' López, Angels' Soler suspended for starting brawl

Kansas City Royals ace Cole Ragans left Wednesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians after ta...

Kansas City Royals ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14571" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14571">Cole Ragans</a> left Wednesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians after taking a comebacker off his pitching hand.Ragans was hit by a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4066" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4066">José Ramírez</a> liner in the first inning.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here's the video of Cole Ragans' apparent hand injury <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Royals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Royals</a> <a href="https://t.co/sJRDj3VyB9">pic.twitter.com/sJRDj3VyB9</a>— Jaylon T. Thompson (@jaylonthompson) <a href="https://twitter.com/jaylonthompson/status/2041936794141225008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Royals announced Ragans suffered a thumb contusion, according to <a href="https://x.com/anne__rogers/status/2041954971336237343?s=20">Anne Rogers of MLB.com</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Manager Matt Quatraro said postgame that Ragans didn't break any bones, per Royals broadcaster <a href="https://x.com/goldbergkc/status/2041971345005625428">Joel Goldberg</a>.The left-hander initially stayed in the game after a lengthy visit by Quatraro and head athletic trainer Kyle Turner but departed after facing the next two hitters - including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17370" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17370">Chase DeLauter</a>, who hit a two-run double.Ragans logged just 61 2/3 innings (13 starts) in 2025 due to multiple injuries.The 28-year-old finished fourth in AL Cy Young voting in 2024.

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 08: Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans (55) leaves the game during the first inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Kansas City Royals and Cleveland Guardians on April 8, 2026, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35168141/related

Royals' Ragans exits after pitching hand struck by liner

The Pittsburgh Pirates and MLB's No. 1 prospect Konnor Griffin are close to finalizing a nine-yea...

The Pittsburgh Pirates and MLB's No. 1 prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a> are close to finalizing a nine-year, $140-million contract extension, according to <a href="https://x.com/Buster_ESPN/status/2039795767477674314?s=20">Buster Olney of ESPN</a>.The deal - if finalized - will establish a new record in terms of compensation for a player who has yet to debut in the majors, besting Colt Emerson's eight-year, $95-million pact signed with the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday.Griffin, the consensus No. 1 prospect in baseball, is expected to make his MLB debut Friday in the Pirates' home opener against the Baltimore Orioles. The 19-year-old shortstop will be the first teenaged position player to suit up in the majors since Juan Soto in 2018.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Griffin was one of the last cuts during spring training but responded with a torrid start in the first five Triple-A games of his career, going 7-for-16 with three stolen bases and five walks. In 2025, he slashed .333/.415/.527 with 21 homers, 94 RBIs, and 65 steals across 122 contests between three minor-league levels.The Pirates selected Griffin with the No. 9 pick in the 2024 draft.

BRADENTON, FLORIDA - MARCH 20, 2026: Konnor Griffin #75 of the Pittsburgh Pirates warms up prior to a spring training Spring Breakout game against the Detroit Tigers at LECOM Park on March 20, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35094727/related

Report: Pirates, Griffin nearing 9-year, $140M extension

The Konnor Griffin era is here for the Pittsburgh Pirates.  The 19-year-old shortstop phenom is g...

The <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a> era is here for the Pittsburgh Pirates.The 19-year-old shortstop phenom is getting called up to make his MLB debut against the Baltimore Orioles for the Pirates' home opener Friday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Opening Debut. <a href="https://t.co/ILemWfjIHS">pic.twitter.com/ILemWfjIHS</a>— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pirates/status/2039709840944054769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Griffin is the consensus No. 1 prospect in all of baseball. He will be the first teenaged position player to suit up in the majors since Juan Soto in 2018.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Griffin was one of the last cuts during spring training but responded with a torrid start in the first five Triple-A games of his career. He went 7-for-16 with three stolen bases and five walks to earn the promotion. His latest offensive showing came after slashing .333/.415/.527 with 21 homers, 94 RBIs, and 65 steals across 122 contests between three minor-league levels in 2025.The Pirates selected Griffin with the No. 9 pick in the 2024 draft.Pittsburgh's front office and Griffin are also deep in extension talks, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/48370345/sources-pirates-konnor-griffin-holding-contract-negotiations">Buster Onley of ESPN</a>.The team's offers are closer to the eight-year, $111-million deal Corbin Carroll signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks in March 2023, while Griffin's camp is looking for something similar to Roman Anthony's eight-year, $130-million pact with the Boston Red Sox, according to Olney.

BRADENTON, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 12: Konnor Griffin #75 of the Pittsburgh Pirates at bat during a spring training workout at Pirate City on February 12, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35091701/related

Pirates promoting MLB's top prospect Griffin for home opener

The Seattle Mariners and top shortstop prospect Colt Emerson agreed to an eight-year contract ext...

The Seattle Mariners and top shortstop prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17510" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17510">Colt Emerson</a> agreed to an eight-year contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.Emerson's deal is for $95 million and includes a ninth-year club option, a full no-trade clause, and escalators that can bring the total north of $130 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2038972820907274479?s=20">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>."Colt is a tremendous person and true all-around player who is committed to achieving excellence in everything he does, both on and off the field," president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto said in a statement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We all look forward to his eventual arrival in Seattle, where he will be a Mariner for many years to come."Emerson's agreement establishes a record for a player who has yet to debut in the majors, reports <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2038974910094082515?s=20">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>. The deal comes a day after the Milwaukee Brewers made headlines for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3511281" href="https://thescore.com/news/3511281">reportedly</a> finalizing an eight-year extension with shortstop Cooper Pratt, who also hasn't appeared in an MLB game."I am excited to play for the Mariners for a really long time," Emerson said in a statement obtained by <a href="https://x.com/DKramer_/status/2039131240310378709">MLB.com's Daniel Kramer</a>. "The people in the organization, including my teammates, the staff, and the Seattle fans are a big reason why my family and I love being here and want to stay here."The 20-year-old Emerson is the No. 7-ranked prospect in all of baseball, per <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/top100/">MLB Pipeline</a>.Emerson hit 16 homers with 78 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and an .842 OPS over 130 games between three minor-league levels in 2025.Seattle selected Emerson with the No. 22 pick in the 2023 draft.

PEORIA, ARIZONA - MARCH 13: Colt Emerson #85 of the Seattle Mariners runs to third base during the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during a spring training game at Peoria Stadium on March 13, 2026 in Peoria, Arizona.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35069002/related

Mariners, Emerson agree to 8-year extension reportedly worth $95M

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Cody Ponce sustained an ACL sprain in his right knee and will miss...

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> sustained an ACL sprain in his right knee and will miss significant time, manager John Schneider said Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/ShiDavidi/status/2039076278272164045?s=20">Shi Davidi of Sportsnet</a>.The Blue Jays are waiting for second opinions before determining how to proceed with Ponce's injury.The 31-year-old could need extensive rehab instead of surgery since he avoided a full tear, reports <a href="https://x.com/thehazelmae/status/2039076831840632914?s=20">Hazel Mae of Sportsnet.</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ponce <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3511448" href="https://thescore.com/news/3511448">hurt himself</a> while fielding a grounder during Monday's loss to the Colorado Rockies - his first MLB appearance since 2021. He joined Toronto on a three-year, $30-million deal in the offseason after winning the 2025 KBO MVP in South Korea.Schneider added that the team won't adjust its rotation through the next turn, per <a href="https://x.com/KeeganMatheson/status/2039080186440720894?s=20">Keegan Matheson of MLB.com</a>. For additional pitching depth, the club has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18911" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18911">Lazaro Estrada</a> on hand, along with Adam Macko, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12889" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12889">CJ Van Eyk</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17252" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17252">Chad Dallas</a>.Ponce joins <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/20109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/20109">Trey Yesavage</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber,</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a> as notable Blue Jays starters currently sidelined.

TORONTO, ON - MARCH 30: Toronto Blue Jays Starting Pitcher Cody Ponce (66) reacts after an injury during the MLB regular season game between the Colorado Rockies and the Toronto Blue Jays on March 30, 2026, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35073435/related

Blue Jays' Ponce has ACL sprain, will miss significant time

Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban isn't happy with his business partners.  "I don't regr...

Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban isn't happy with his business partners."I don't regret selling," Cuban said during an episode of the "Intersections" podcast published Tuesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/48356499/mark-cuban-says-regrets-selling-mavericks-adelson-dumont-families">Tim MacMahon of ESPN</a>. "I regret who I sold to. I made a lot of mistakes in the process, and I'll leave it at that."Cuban sold his majority share of the Mavericks to the Adelson and Dumont families for $3.5 billion in December 2023. He explained that one motivation for the sale was that he didn't want his family tied to the team.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"My kids, they were coming of age where they would have the mindset that they want to work at the Mavs," Cuban said. "I didn't want them to. If fans don't like what you're doing or the team's not doing well, you're the worst human being on the planet."The 67-year-old believed after the sale that he would still have a major role in the team's basketball operations, despite Patrick Dumont being named governor. However, Cuban continuing to make basketball operation decisions wasn't part of the deal, sources told MacMahon.Cuban was upset after Dumont approved the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025. He learned about the completed deal when he received a call from now-fired general manager Nico Harrison.Cuban still owns a 27% stake in the Mavericks.

DALLAS, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 5: Dallas Mavericks minority owner Mark Cuban looks on during a game between the Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs in the first half at American Airlines Center on February 5, 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35071800/related

Cuban: I 'regret' selling Mavericks to Adelson, Dumont families

Masai Ujiri has found his next big basketball role in Canada.  The former longtime Toronto Raptor...

Masai Ujiri has found his next big basketball role in Canada.The former longtime Toronto Raptors president joined the expansion Toronto Tempo as a principal owner, the WNBA team announced Tuesday.Ujiri will play a role in developing women's basketball leaders through a new coaching mentorship program.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A leader who changed the game for Canada now joins the team ready to change it again 🤝 Welcome to the Tempo, Masai Ujiri! We’re thrilled to have you as a Principal Owner. Presented by Sephora Canada <a href="https://t.co/PRwg7AsYXc">pic.twitter.com/PRwg7AsYXc</a>— Toronto Tempo (@TempoBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/TempoBasketball/status/2038920581727346844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"As an honourary Canadian, I’m excited to be part of the Tempo team as I believe they are building something truly historic - a franchise that represents not only Canada, but the future of basketball," Ujiri said.The 55-year-old was let go by the Raptors last June following a 12-year run between that was highlighted by the franchise's first and only NBA championship in 2019."I want to win with the Tempo and I want to win another NBA championship because I wasn't able to celebrate and be happy because of that police incident that happened to me," Ujiri told <a href="https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/48354693/masai-ujiri-joins-ownership-group-wnba-toronto-tempo">ESPN's Ramona Shelburne</a>.Ujiri is referring to an incident where a sheriff's deputy stopped him from entering the court to celebrate the Raptors' title over the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena after Ujiri didn't provide the proper credentials, which lead to an altercation.Maple Leaf Sport &amp; Entertainment board member Larry Tanenbaum, tennis legend Serena Williams, and Montreal Canadiens owner Geoff Molson are among other major names that are part of the Tempo ownership group.The Tempo will kick off their inaugural season May 8 against the Washington Mystics at Toronto's Coca-Cola Coliseum.

TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 2: Toronto Raptors general manager Masai Ujiri speaks during Vince Carter's jersey retirement ceremony at halftime of a game between the Sacramento Kings and the Toronto Raptors on November 2, 2024 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35068958/related

Ex-Raptors president Ujiri joins Tempo ownership

The Milwaukee Brewers and shortstop Cooper Pratt are finalizing an eight-year, $50.75-million con...

The Milwaukee Brewers and shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17536" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17536">Cooper Pratt</a> are finalizing an eight-year, $50.75-million contract extension with two club options, according <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2038708720092262590">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>.Pratt's options will be worth $15 million per season, reports <a href="https://x.com/BNightengale/status/2038703088111104052?s=20">Bob Nightengale of USA Today</a>."What's not to like?" Brewers manager Pat Murphy said of Pratt, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/milwaukee-brewers-cooper-pratt-c12719aaef9ad3459be7fa9fd5d4c53b">Steve Megargee of The Associated Press</a>. "Aptitude. He's a baseball player. He's a good baseball player. He's got a ways to go. He's got to develop. Great human, a worker."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 21-year-old prospect has appeared in just three Triple-A games and has never played in the majors.Pratt hit eight homers with 62 RBIs, 31 stolen bases, and a .691 OPS over 120 contests in Double-A during the 2025 campaign. He's the No. 4-ranked prospect in the Brewers' minor-league system and considered an exceptional defender.Milwaukee selected Pratt in the sixth round of the 2023 draft.

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - MARCH 23: Cooper Pratt #87 of the Milwaukee Brewers up to bat against the Cincinnati Reds during the exhibition game at American Family Field on March 23, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35061599/related

Report: Brewers, prospect Pratt finalizing 8-year, $50.75M extension

MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) — Alan Gustafson ignored the phone call while packing a suitcase for the S...

<div>
MARTINSVILLE, Va. (AP) — Alan Gustafson ignored the phone call while packing a suitcase for the Sunday morning drive to Martinsville Speedway. Then he saw whom he’d missed — <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nascar-racing">NASCAR</a> Cup Series <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-rick-hendrick-300-wins-byron-gordon-a93cc00b54118921b1e506f3e16edee1">team owner Rick Hendrick</a>.
“I better get on it,” Gustafson said with a chuckle. “As soon as I got in the car, I called him right back.”
The founder of Hendrick Motorsports had a message that he wanted the crew chief for Chase Elliott to deliver to his team, and it set the tone <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-martinsville-elliott-hamlin-da4e7412cdbe79a570e17593d9eff2b9">for their first victory of the season</a>.
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
“He just basically was super positive,” Gustafson said. “The quote from him was: ‘This is a marathon, not a 10K race. We’re in it for the long run. Regardless of the way it starts, it’s about the way it finishes.’"
That certainly was the case at Martinsville, where Elliott started 10th and was hardly a factor as Denny Hamlin led the first 292 of 317 laps <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-martinsville-qualifying-hamlin-10ce78581bb44707a9b8a6e1dd0a57e1">from the pole</a>.
But Gustafson made the critical call for an early pit stop that vaulted the No. 9 Chevrolet to the front, and Elliott led the final 69 laps for his 22nd career win despite having the sixth-fastest car, according to Racing Insights, a NASCAR analytics firm.
His victory in the seventh race is the earliest in a season for the 2020 Cup champion, who now enters an off week with some peace of mind.
“That was one of the first things I thought about,” Elliott said of winning early. “Man, this is awesome. We’ve never done that. Going into the off week with the win is really cool. I know we still have a lot of room for improvement, don’t get me wrong, but a great way to cap off this first stretch. A lot of good momentum for the whole organization.”
After a rough start of four top-five finishes among its four cars through the first six races, it’s fitting that Hendrick Motorsports earned its first victory of 2026 at Martinsville Speedway.
The team has a record 31 wins at the short track, which typifies the performance and resilience of NASCAR’s winningest outfit and its redoubtable founder.
Rick Hendrick lost his son, a brother, two nieces and two key executives <a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-virginia-kansas-nascar-kyle-larson-cdd3bd6faf3b6797ed559c93b6062ce2">when a Hendrick plane crashed</a> en route to Martinsville on Oct. 24, 2004. The team pushed through the tragedy, and Sunday marked its record 321st victory in NASCAR’s premier series (along with 15 championships, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/nascar-championship-hamlin-briscoe-byron-bell-phoenix-8ffacadac0bfd868f2794c944041297a">most recently last season with Kyle Larson</a> ).
This year’s struggles pale by comparison. With a new Camaro body necessitating setup adjustments, Hendrick also wasn’t alone in being behind — Chevy teams were winless through six races for the first time since 2019.
“I hate it when we go through stuff like this, but we’ve been through this before,” said Hendrick vice chairman Jeff Gordon, who had four championships and 93 wins <a href="https://apnews.com/jeff-gordons-influence-on-nascar-honored-at-hall-of-fame-9f4cca7f34654fdaac7724d84947faa9">in a Hall of Fame driving career</a> for the team. “You lean on your tools more. You get back to the basics.”
Part of the team’s foundation is an actively engaged owner offering a constant source of encouragement behind the scenes.
Before calling Gustafson on Sunday morning, Hendrick rang Elliott on Saturday night. The driver said he “shot the breeze” with Hendrick about his car dealerships and the performance of Elliott’s car. Hendrick, who juggles racing with running an automotive empire, also revealed he’d miss Sunday’s race.
Though there was no discussion of his season, Elliott knew Hendrick had his back.
“I feel that all the time from him,” Elliott said. “He’s always done a great job of just showing support to me, whether things are going good or bad. Always cool to hear from him.”
Gordon said the conversations aren’t always pleasant. In fact, Hendrick’s “kick in the butt” sessions are legendary.
There was the “pork chop meeting” at a race in the early 2000s when Hendrick destroyed the dinner he was holding in his hand while railing about an issue (the meat allegedly flew off the bone he angrily waved and struck a crew chief).
Hendrick held <a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-jimmie-johnson-charlotte-nascar-2084271b43055ce6bf1ba103a4727775">the famous “milk and cookies meeting”</a> with Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus when the pair wanted to split after the 2005 season. With milk and cookies as props, Hendrick underscored that his star driver and crew chief were acting like petulant children.
The message was heeded. Johnson and Knaus won the next five Cup championships and seven overall, and they entered the NASCAR Hall of Fame together in 2024.
“This is what I love about his style is that he mixes it up,” Gordon said about Hendrick. “He’ll surprise you. Some days, he will just get fired up. Then there’s the days where you think you’re going to get that, and he is calm and just positive and supportive. His experience of being in business, he knows how to read a room, how to read people and how to motivate them when they need it most.”
In this case, Gustafson said the check-in by the boss helped remove any prerace pressure.
“Ultimately, go out and have some fun,” Gustafson said. “Don’t focus on any of the noise, focus on what we can control. It was just nice to hear from him. He’s the master of knowing what to say at the right time.”
___
AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>
</div>

MARTINSVILLE, VA - MARCH 29: Chase Elliott (#9 Hendrick Motorsports UniFirst Chevrolet) celebrates in Victory Lane following the running of the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400 on March 29, 2026, at Martinsville Speedway in Martinsville, VA.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35061285/related

Hendrick Motorsports made all right calls in earning 1st Cup win of season

Home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor had a rough day at the office.  Bucknor saw six calls overturned b...

Home plate umpire C.B. Bucknor had a rough day at the office.Bucknor saw six calls overturned by the new ABS challenge system during the Cincinnati Reds' 6-5 win in extras over the Boston Red Sox on Saturday.The 63-year-old had back-to-back third strikes reversed by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3362">Eugenio Suárez</a>'s challenges in the sixth inning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
C.B. Bucknor tried to ring up Eugenio Suárez on back-to-back pitches. Suárez challenged both and won both challenges. (H/T: <a href="https://twitter.com/tylermilliken_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tylermilliken_</a>) <a href="https://t.co/erzchAXPw0">pic.twitter.com/erzchAXPw0</a>— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/2038021628542832868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Reds went 5-for-5 on challenges in the contest, while the Red Sox were 1-for-3.Bucknor also punched out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4232" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4232">Trevor Story</a> on a check-swing call in the eighth without asking for help from the first base ump. Story was livid with the call, and Red Sox manager Alex Cora was eventually ejected after supporting his player.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Home plate umpire CB Bucknor ruled Trevor Story swung here 🤔🧐 <a href="https://t.co/kMKTsQpWik">pic.twitter.com/kMKTsQpWik</a>— NESN (@NESN) <a href="https://twitter.com/NESN/status/2038029499409821875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"He has one job to do: call balls and strikes," Cora said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/NESN/status/2038043555944358030">NESN</a>. "It wasn't his best day. That's what the system does. It's out there. Everybody sees it. He'll be the first one to accept it. I saw him putting his head down after one of the challenges. We're all human."Bucknor, who's one of the longest-tenured active umps, has worked in the majors since 1996.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 09: Home plate umpire CB Bucknor looks on during the third inning of the game between the San Diego Padres and the Boston Red Sox at Petco Park on August 09, 2025 in San Diego, California.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35045077/related

Umpire Bucknor gets 6 calls overturned by ABS in Red Sox-Reds

The Chicago Cubs and second baseman Nico Hoerner agreed to a six-year, $141-million contract exte...

The Chicago Cubs and second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10637" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10637">Nico Hoerner</a> agreed to a six-year, $141-million contract extension, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2037655212022718521?s=20">Jeff Passan of ESPN</a>.The reported deal is the fourth-largest pact for a second baseman in MLB history. Only Robinson Canó, Marcus Semien, and Jose Altuve received more guaranteed money.Deferrals will take the current-day value of Hoerner's contract into the mid-$130-million range, according to <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/2037658199617151477?s=20">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Hoerner also received a full no-trade clause, reports <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2037676975675126208?s=20">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.The 28-year-old would've been a free agent at the end of the 2026 season.Hoerner owns a career .282/.340/.384 slash line with 36 homers, 128 doubles, 278 RBIs, and 131 stolen bases over seven seasons with the Cubs. He's accumulated 17.4 fWAR since 2022.The two-time Gold Glover is one of the best defenders in baseball at the keystone position. He finished in the 98th percentile for outs above average in 2025.The reported extension comes days after the Cubs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3506804" href="https://thescore.com/news/3506804">agreed</a> to a six-year, $115-million pact with All-Star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12736">Pete Crow-Armstrong</a>. Chicago also landed third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> in free agency with a five-year, $175-million deal in January.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 9: Nico Hoerner #2 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates a hit in Game Four of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field on October 9, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/35016915/related

Report: Cubs, Hoerner agree to 6-year, $141M extension

Pete Crow-Armstrong has secured a historic contract extension.  The Chicago Cubs and the All-Star...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12736">Pete Crow-Armstrong</a> has secured a historic contract extension.The Chicago Cubs and the All-Star outfielder agreed to a six-year, $115-million deal that starts in 2027, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2036576104060793279">Jeff Passan of ESPN</a>.The reported pact is the largest extension handed out in Cubs history.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Crow-Armstrong's deal is also the biggest contract in MLB history with no club options for a player with five years of control remaining, according to <a href="https://x.com/Feinsand/status/2036577005815115937?s=20">Mark Feinsand of MLB.com</a>, who adds that performance escalators for 2031 and 2032 could increase the value to $133 million.The reported contract buys out four arbitration-eligible seasons and two years of free agency, which allows Crow-Armstrong to potentially hit the open market before his age-31 season.The soon-to-be 24-year-old is coming off a breakout 2025 campaign where he hit 31 home runs with 35 stolen bases and 5.4 fWAR in 157 games, earning his first-career All-Star selection and Gold Glove. He also became the first Cubs player to record at least 30 homers, 30 doubles, and 30 steals in a single season.Crow-Armstrong was acquired by the Cubs in a 2021 trade with the New York Mets. New York dealt him to Chicago for three-time All-Star infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3569">Javier Báez</a> and veteran pitcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5349" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5349">Trevor Williams</a>.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - OCTOBER 02: Pete Crow-Armstrong #4 of the Chicago Cubs celebrates after hitting an RBI single in the second against the San Diego Padres in game three of the National League Wild Card Series at Wrigley Field on October 02, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/34988156/related

Report: Cubs extend Crow-Armstrong on 6-year, $115M deal

New York Yankees right-hander Luis Gil will begin the 2026 season in Triple-A, the club announced...

New York Yankees right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a> will begin the 2026 season in Triple-A, the club announced Tuesday, according to <a href="https://x.com/GJoyce9/status/2036498697928974637?s=20">Greg Joyce of the New York Post</a>.Gil will continue to stay built up until the Yankees need a fifth starter for their rotation, which could happen April 11 against the Tampa Bay Rays.The 27-year-old authored a 4.66 ERA with 1.29 WHIP and 24 strikeouts over 19 1/3 innings during spring training.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Gil, the 2024 AL Rookie of the Year, owns a career 3.50 ERA with 9.5 K/9 and 4.9 BB/9 across 242 innings (47 starts) since debuting in 2021.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17858" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17858">Cade Winquest</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15421" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15421">Brent Headrick</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13863" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13863">Jake Bird</a> were the final players to make the Yankees' Opening Day roster.

TAMPA, FL - FEBRUARY 26: Luis Gil #81 of the New York Yankees works out before a spring training game against the Atlanta Braves at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 26, 2026 in Tampa, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/34992575/related

Yankees option former AL ROY Luis Gil

Detroit Tigers top prospect Kevin McGonigle will start the 2026 season in the majors, the club an...

Detroit Tigers top prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18596" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18596">Kevin McGonigle</a> will start the 2026 season in the majors, the club announced Tuesday. <figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
it's time <a href="https://t.co/jKVM1nnlJ3">pic.twitter.com/jKVM1nnlJ3</a>— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/status/2036478689127313537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>McGonigle is set to make his MLB debut Thursday against the San Diego Padres on Opening Day.The 21-year-old infielder is considered MLB's second-best prospect, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects">MLB Pipeline</a>. He will reach the majors without playing in Triple-A.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McGonigle went deep twice with a team-high 11 walks and an .888 OPS over 20 games during spring training. He also hit 19 homers with 80 RBIs and a .991 OPS in 88 contests between three minor-league levels in 2025.The Tigers selected McGonigle with the 37th overall pick in the 2023 draft.

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 23: Kevin McGonigle #85 of the Detroit Tigers warms up before a spring training game /aco at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick on March 23, 2026 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/34991477/related

McGonigle, MLB's No. 2 prospect, makes Tigers' Opening Day roster

JJ Wetherholt has made the St. Louis Cardinals.  The Cardinals' top prospect earned a roster spot...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18806" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18806">JJ Wetherholt</a> has made the St. Louis Cardinals.The Cardinals' top prospect earned a roster spot for their Opening Day game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday, the team announced Monday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
👀 <a href="https://t.co/FnXbKl1lJm">pic.twitter.com/FnXbKl1lJm</a>— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cardinals/status/2036179257123119350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Wetherholt is expected to begin the season as the team's starting second baseman. The 23-year-old is the No. 5-ranked prospect in baseball, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects">MLB Pipeline</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wetherholt hit two homers with seven RBIs and a .780 OPS across 15 games during spring training. He went deep 17 times with 59 RBIs, 23 stolen bases, and a .931 OPS over 109 contests between Double-A and Triple-A in 2025.St. Louis selected the infielder with the seventh pick in the 2024 draft.

JUPITER, FLORIDA - MARCH 09: JJ Wetherholt #77 of the St. Louis Cardinals at bat during a spring training game against the Baltimore Orioles at Roger Dean Stadium on March 09, 2026 in Jupiter, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/34985032/related

Cardinals top prospect Wetherholt earns Opening Day spot

New York Mets prospect Carson Benge will be the club's starting right fielder to begin the 2026 s...

New York Mets prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19109" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19109">Carson Benge</a> will be the club's starting right fielder to begin the 2026 season, the team announced Monday.Benge is set to make his MLB debut Thursday versus the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day.The 23-year-old is the No. 2-ranked prospect in the Mets' minor-league system and No. 16 overall in baseball, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects">MLB Pipeline</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Benge went 15-for-41 with five RBIs and an .874 OPS over 14 games during spring training to earn the job. He also went deep 15 times with 73 RBIs, 22 stolen bases, and an .857 OPS across 116 contests between three minor-league levels in 2025.The Mets selected Benge 19th overall in the 2024 draft.

JUPITER, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 27: Carson Benge #93 of the New York Mets celebrates after scoring against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning of a spring training gameat Roger Dean Stadium on February 27, 2026 in Jupiter, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/34983639/related

Mets top outfield prospect Benge makes Opening Day roster

New York Mets third baseman Bo Bichette is confident he can become one of the majors' premier pla...

New York Mets third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> is confident he can become one of the majors' premier players."I am capable of being - I don't think you can say 'the best player in the game' because that is subjective - but I can be one of the best players in the game," Bichette said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7133185/2026/03/20/bo-bichette-mets-top-players/">Will Sammon of The Athletic</a>. "I think I am already. But I think I can be seen as that more often."Bichette, who joined the Mets on a three-year, $126-million contract in January, has authored a 17.7 fWAR since 2021, which ranks 37th among all position players during that span.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 28-year-old's resume already includes leading the AL in hits twice, two All-Star Game nods, and a World Series appearance. Bichette, who spent the first seven years of his career with the Toronto Blue Jays, believes he can take his game to a new level in Queens."My whole life, I always dreamed of playing on the biggest stages," Bichette said. "I don't necessarily think I thought it would be New York as a child. I thought of it as the World Series and things like that. "But when you get in the big leagues and see the level, the standard that the city holds both teams to, it's exciting for me. I hold myself to the same standards. Those attitudes line up."Bichette can opt out of his contract to test free agency again following the 2026 season.

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL - FEBRUARY 21: Bo Bichette #19 of the New York Mets prior to the game between the Miami Marlins and the New York Mets at Clover Park on Saturday, February 21, 2026 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/content_cards/34945010/related

Bichette: 'I can be one of the best players' in MLB

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

Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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

Simon Sharkey-Gotlieb

https://rich-content.staging.thescore.com/authors/daniel-valente/content_cards