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Mets' Carlos Mendoza talks 'frustrating' triple play call: 'Tough break for us there'

In what was a wacky game on Friday night between the Mets and the Washington Nationals, perhaps the strangest play happened in the fourth inning. Something that hasn't happened to New York in 15 years.

With runners on first and second and nobody out after back-to-back singles by Brandon Nimmo and Mark Vientos, the Mets were on the verge of a potential big inning against Jake Irvin, who had a 2-0 lead and was pitching well up until that point.

Instead, Jesse Winker lined a ball to first base that was caught by Nathaniel Lowe. At least, that's what was called on the field by first base umpire Alfonso Marquez. With both baserunners trying to advance, the Nationals threw to second and first base for the force outs, which resulted in a triple play.

Threat over.

However, on instant replay, it was clear that the ball hit the dirt before going into Lowe's glove which should've negated the triple play. Unfortunately for New York, that play is not reviewable and could not be challenged by manager Carlos Mendoza.

"It’s frustrating, obviously, because we all saw what happened," the skipper said after the game. "And I’m not blaming Alfonso because he’s the one behind the play, but I think the other three [umpires], somebody’s got to see that play. Tough break for us there.",

After the call on the field, Mendoza went out to argue that the umpires should at least get together to talk about what they saw. His request was to no avail as all four umpires apparently saw the same thing as Marquez.

"They said that if somebody saw it, somebody would have just called to Alfonso, and that was my frustration there. We all saw it in the dugout," Mendoza said.

While having a wrong call go against you is undeniably frustrating, especially in this day and age of replay review, what had Mendoza and the Mets most annoyed was how crucial the call was at that point in the game.

Already down 2-0 and unable to get anything going against Irvin, New York's golden opportunity to do some damage against the right-hander was stripped away in the blink of an eye.

"That’s just frustrating – a play like that with so much impact, not only in that inning but in the game, it’s first and second, nobody out and before you know it, you’re out of the inning and there’s nothing you can do about it," Mendoza said. "I was asking for them to get together and it was just a pretty frustrating play."

Following the game, Nimmo and Vientos were asked about what they saw on the play.

While Vientos called it a baserunning mistake on his part for not freezing and going back to first base on the sharp liner, Nimmo said he made a split-second decision while acknowledging that it's a tough play.

"I thought I saw a little skip [of the ball] before the glove and so I decided to go [to third base]," Nimmo said. "But you’re also kind of in no-man’s land when it’s hit hard at [someone] like that and it’s a close play on the ground…

"Just unfortunate timing there and one of those plays where unfortunately on the base paths you’re kind of in no-man’s land and you just gotta make a decision and see what the umpires end up saying."

Perhaps most frustrating of all is the fact that that specific play can not be reviewed. If MLB has the capability to review close plays, why not extend that power to all plays to ensure every call is correct?

It's an answer Mendoza, Nimmo and the rest of the Mets are still searching for.

"I do think it switched momentum big time," Nimmo added.

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Devin Williams' woes continue after blown save in Yankees' 4-2 loss to Blue Jays

NEW YORK (AP) — Alejandro Kirk hit a go-ahead two-run double in the ninth inning off Yankees closer Devin Williams and the Toronto Blue Jays beat New York 4-2 on Friday night, snapping a five-game losing streak.

Williams (0-2), who has an 11.25 ERA in his first 10 appearances, failed to retire a batter and blew his first save in five chances.

After allowing a leadoff single to George Springer and hitting Andrés Giménez, Kirk lifted a 1-0 changeup over the had of center fielder Trent Grisham and Williams was pulled by manager Aaron Boone.

Kirk’s big hit came after he threw out Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Cody Bellinger at second on stolen base attempts in the sixth.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. homered in the sixth and Addison Barger added an RBI single in the ninth off Mark Leiter Jr. to give the Blue Jays a 4-2 lead.

Austin Wells hit a sacrifice fly with the bases loaded to give the Yankees a 2-1 lead. Oswaldo Cabrera hit a tying single in the seventh, but the Yankees stranded two in the seventh. New York stranded 11 runners and were 1 for 9 with runners in scoring position.

Mason Fluharty (1-0) earned his first win by keeping the game at 2-1 in the eighth.

Toronto starter José Berríos allowed five hits in 5 1/3 innings for his first scoreless start since Aug. 31 at Minnesota. Berríos struck out four and walked two.

New York starter Carlos Carrasco allowed three hits in five scoreless innings.

Key moment

Jeff Hoffman stranded Ben Rice by retiring Paul Goldschmidt for his sixth save in as many chances.

Key stats

Opponents are 6 for 22 (.273) against Williams’ changeup. Last season, Williams allowed six hits in 37 at-bats (.162) off the pitch.

Up next

Toronto RHP Kevin Gausman (2-2, 3.16 ERA) opposes New York LHP Max Fried (4-0, 1.42) on Saturday.

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Mets take late lead, blow first game in 5-4 walk-off loss to Nationals

The Mets fought late to come back and take the lead against the Washington Nationals just to blow it in the ninth and lost to their division rivals, 5-4, on Friday night.

Here are the takeaways...

-New York entered the top of the eighth inning down 3-0 after Jake Irvin spent the entire evening dicing them up, allowing just five hits -- all singles -- in 7.1 innings. But with a runner on first and one out, Washington manager Dave Martinez pulled the right-hander after 98 pitches and went to his shaky bullpen. The decision did not pay off.

-With two outs, Juan Soto singled, Pete Alonso walked and with the bases loaded, Brandon Nimmo hit one up the middle that found enough of a hole to drive in a run.

Now facing Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan, Mark Vientos dumped one just inside the right-field line, where right fielder Dylan Crews made a diving attempt but came up empty. The do-or-die play by a young player cleared the bases to give the Mets the lead and put Vientos on third for his first triple of the season and the second of his career.

-With their first lead of the night, center fielder Tyrone Taylor made an excellent play in the bottom of the eighth inning, throwing out Luis Garcia Jr. at second base, trying to extend a single into a double. The assist helped Reed Garrett pitch a scoreless inning as the reliever has still not allowed an earned run this season.

-Crews made up for his lapse in judgment on the dive attempt with a leadoff triple to start the last of the ninth against Ryne Stanek, who was vying for the save. While the ball was hit hard and traveled to the warning track, Soto had a glove on it and had a chance to catch it, but the ball went off his glove. Jose Tena tied the game with a single.

-A.J. Minter replaced Stanek and got CJ Abrams to ground into a force out for the second out, but put a lot of speed at first base. That came back to bite New York after James Wood singled to center on a slowly hit ball. With Taylor playing back and having to run in for the ball, Abrams never stopped running and slid home in front of the tag at the plate to give Washington the walk-off win.

-On the walk-off hit by Wood, Jeff McNeil -- in his first game back from the IL -- made a poor effort on the ball, which ultimately allowed the winning run to score.

-Kodai Senga got the start in the series opener and it was clear from the first inning that the right-hander was searching for his pitches as he wasn't getting a lot of swing-and-misses.

The Nationals got to him in the second inning after a mental mistake byNimmo, who threw the ball from left field to third base after a two-out hit byCrews. The gaffe allowed Crews, who, to his credit, took a wide turn at first base, to end up on second base for a double. On Senga's very next pitch,Tena ripped a single to left that drove in the game's first run and put an end to Senga's 19.2 scoreless innings streak.

After the two-out rally in the second, Washington jumped on top of Senga to lead off the third. Jacob Young singled to start the inning andAbrams tripled high off the center field wall, and just like that, three pitches into the inning, the Nats doubled their lead.

In need of a strikeout, Senga got the next best thing -- a tapper to the catcher for the first out, keeping Abrams at third. Senga would eventually strike out the next two hitters for his first two strikeouts of the night, which couldn't have come at a better time and ended the inning without further damage.

From then on, the 32-year-old locked in and retired 11 consecutive hitters following the triple. That streak was snapped with two outs in the sixth inning after Senga walked Keibert Ruiz. A second straight walk prompted pitching coach Jeremy Hefner to talk things over with the right-hander before eventually striking out Josh Bell for the final out of the inning.

Senga's final line: 6 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 5 K on 96 pitches (58 strikes). His season ERA rose slightly to 1.26.

-Offensively, the Mets had no answers againstIrvin, who is proving to be a nemesis of theirs.

After failing to score in the first inning following two Nationals errors on the same play -- both by first baseman Nathaniel Lowe -- New York's next best scoring opportunity came in the fourth. Nimmo andVientos singled to lead things off but were soon erased on a lineout triple play by Jesse Winker.

While not a challengeable play, instant replay showed that Lowe trapped the ball instead of catching it and the play should not have resulted in three outs. Nonetheless, first base umpire and crew chief Alfonso Marquez made the call and the inning was over, resulting in manager Carlos Mendoza coming out of the dugout and giving Marquez an earful.

It was the first triple play turned on the Mets in 15 years.

-Francisco Alvarez made his return to the lineup and had a hit. He also threw out a runner trying to steal second base.

Game MVP: CJ Abrams

The leadoff hitter went 2-for-5 with two RBI and scored the game-winning run by pushing the envelope, which paid off.

Highlights

What's next

The Mets and Nats play the second game of this four-game, wrap-around weekend series on Saturday afternoon with first pitch scheduled for 4:05 p.m. on SNY.

RHP Clay Holmes (2-1, 3.16 ERA) goes against rookie RHP Brad Lord (0-2, 4.73 ERA).

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Pirates' Tommy Pham suspended, fined for making crude hand-jerking gesture at Angel fans

Pirates' Tommy Pham's bat breaks as he singles during the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Angels.
Pittsburgh's Tommy Pham's bat breaks as he singles during the ninth inning against the Angels at Angel Stadium on Wednesday. (Eric Thayer / Associated Press)

Tommy Pham was diagnosed with a progressive degenerative eye disease in 2008, six years before he made his major league debut. Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and weaken, leading to vision distortion, not ideal for someone hitting baseballs for a living.

It's a testament to Pham that he overcame this distinct disadvantage through surgery and cutting-edge procedures at the Boxer Wachler Vision Institute in Beverly Hills to carve out a 12-year big league career.

But the 37-year-old doesn't always see eye to eye with fans, at least not those who frequently heckle him, and Pham's reaction is too often rude, crude and lewd. The most recent incident happened Wednesday at Angel Stadium and it resulted in a one-game suspension and an undisclosed fine from Major League Baseball on Friday.

Pham is appealing the suspension and was in the lineup Friday as Pittsburgh opened a three-game series against the Dodgers.

During a game against the Angels, Pham fielded a double near the left-field wall and a fan in the first row wearing a glove reached over the wall and touched the Pirates left fielder on the back. Pham couldn't ignore the slight.

Read more:Padres say Tommy Pham in 'good condition' after stabbing, surgery

He turned and glared at the fan even before throwing the ball to a cutoff man and after resuming his position responded to heckling by turning toward the stands and making a crude hand-jerking gesture near his crotch. The television broadcaster was caught off-guard and responded in real time, "Well there, Tommy Pham says hello to the crowd."

Pham then motioned for the heckler to come onto the field, where presumably he would address the spat once and for all, man to man. Angels fans booed Pham the rest of the game, which Pittsburgh won 3-0.

The incident can be added to a list that would be shorter if not for Pham's questionable responses.

October 2020:Pham was stabbed in the back during an altercation outside a San Diego strip club when he told patrons engaged in an argument near his car to move along. He needed 200 stitches to close the gash.

“The cut’s deep. The doctor here basically told me if I wasn’t so muscular, I might be dead or paralyzed,” Pham told reporters a few months later at spring training. “I’m lucky to even be able to play.”

June 2021:Pham addressed the torrent of verbal abuse he experienced after getting off to a poor start with the San Diego Padres. “Fans have been very disrespectful this year,” Pham told Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I actually saw a fan who was talking [trash] to me. I saw him outside the stadium. I said, ‘What’s up? You still want to talk that [trash]?’ He went completely blank. That just shows you people feel entitled.”

April 2022: Playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Pham challenged Luke Voit to a fight after the Padres designated hitter collided with Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson on a play at the plate.

“The way his hands hit him in the face, it was dirty,” Pham told reporters. “If Luke wants to settle it, I get down really well. Anything. Muay Thai, whatever.”

Read more:What fantasy commissioner Mike Trout says about Tommy Pham-Joc Pederson flap/slap

May 2022: Pham was suspended for three games and fined for slapping San Francisco Giants outfielder Joc Pederson in the face during batting practice over a fantasy football league dispute. Pham said Pederson was "messing with my money" and objected to Pederson putting a player on injured reserve and adding a free agent to his roster, although Pederson said Pham had "literally done the same thing" with his fantasy team.

August 2023: Playing for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Pham got into a verbal confrontation with a fan while in the on-deck circle in San Diego, saying later that the fan referred to him with a profanity. Pham underachieved playing for the Padres in 2020 and '21, and some fans wouldn't let him forget it.

“He stepped out of line and said something that I don’t [take well]," Pham told reporters. "The fans here, I just don’t get it. Not even at the field. Even away from the field. Just completely disrespectful."

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo added that some verbal abuse aimed at Pham is racially charged.

"I hear some terrible things coming from the stands," Lovullo said at the time. "It’s not just the normal 'You’re a bum' stuff. It’s deeper. It’s ugly. ... I just didn’t like what was coming out of these fans’ mouth and it’s real. I’m not making that up. If you get near our dugout, you’d be amazed at what’s being said.”

Pham, who's on his 10th team, clearly is a complex player, the Pirates signing him to a one-year, $4-million deal a week before spring training began. His next hit will be No. 1,000, and he has earned $39.5 million in his career.

Read more:Tommy Pham wanted to be a Dodger. Now he’s a standout and clubhouse hit for Arizona

Another side of him was revealed during the 2023 World Series when he voluntarily gave an at-bat to Diamondbacks teammate and friend Jace Peterson, although Pham was four for four and could have become the first player to go five for five in a World Series game.

“This was to me a true team moment," Lovullo said. "Tommy Pham knew — I’m sure he knew, because he’s extremely smart and pays attention to some things that you wouldn’t expect a Major League Baseball player to pay attention to — I am guaranteeing you he was aware that he had a chance to get five hits."

Then there is Pham overcoming keratoconus, described to reporter Scott Miller by Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler this way: "Imagine your car windshield bulging out and getting all those distortions. Keratoconus can be like being in a fun house, but it's not a lot of fun."

In 2019, Pham spoke to about 200 ophthalmologists at a convention, detailing his journey, which while battling keratoconus included 2,338 minor league at-bats from 2008 to 2014 before he made his big league debut.

"Miracle, I think, is the best term to describe him," said Dr. Edward Bennett, professor of optometry at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and part of the team of eye specialists that worked on Pham. "I've never known anybody else who played Major League Baseball with keratoconus. I don't know how he sees the spin on the curveball, or fastballs."

Perhaps Pham makes up for it by hearing exceptionally well. He definitely hears hecklers, and sometimes his reaction results in a fine and suspension.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

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Mets activate C Francisco Alvarez and 2B Jeff McNeil from injured list

WASHINGTON — The New York Mets activated catcher Francisco Alvarez and second baseman Jeff McNeil from the injured list Friday, and both were in the lineup to make their season debut in the opener of a four-game series against the Washington Nationals.

“Pretty excited,” McNeil said. “Feels like Opening Day for me because it is.”

Alvarez fractured the hamate bone in his left hand during practice on March 8 and underwent surgery two days later. McNeil had been out since straining his right oblique March 10 in a spring training game.

The Mets have thrived despite the absence of both lineup mainstays. New York has won seven in a row and entered Friday 18-7, five games ahead of second-place Philadelphia in the NL East.

“I think we’ve been playing really well and I think we’ve put ourselves in a very good position,” Alvarez said via an interpreter.

The 23-year-old Alvarez hit .237 with 11 home runs and 47 RBIs last season. He hit .179 with a homer and three RBIs in 10 games during a rehabilitation assignment over three minor league levels this month.

McNeil, a two-time All-Star who has played in at least 120 games for the Mets in each full season since 2019, hit .238 with 12 homers and 44 RBIs in 2024. The 33-year-old hit .393 with two homers and three RBIs in eight rehab games over three levels since April 11.

“They are a big part of this team,” manager Carlos Mendoza said. “Even when they weren’t playing, they were around. Last year, they were a big part of this team. That’s what it’s going to take. It’s going to take more than 26 guys.”

Mendoza said it is possible McNeil plays some in center field. While he has played the outfield in 294 games during his seven-year career, he made his only three appearances in center in 2023.

Alvarez will split time with Luis Torrens, who has hit .241 with a homer and eight RBIs as the Mets’ primary catcher the last four weeks.

“I’m going to try to keep him as active as possible,” Mendoza said. “He played really well for us and he earned opportunities. We’re getting Alvy back, and he’s going to get opportunities as well. I think that’s a good problem to have. I could see both of them playing.”

To create room on the roster, New York optioned infielder Brett Baty and catcher Hayden Senger to Triple-A Syracuse after a 4-3 victory Wednesday over Philadelphia.

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LHP Brooks Raley, Mets agree to one-year deal: report

Left-handed pitcher Brooks Raley and the Mets have agreed to a one-year contract, pending a physical, reports New York Posts's Joel Sherman. The contract has a team option for 2026.

The deal marks a reunion between both sides as Raley pitched for New York in 2023 and 2024 after signing a two-year contract prior to the 2023 season. After just eight appearances in 2024, the lefty went down with a UCL strain which required Tommy John surgery.

Rehabbing since then, Raley threw for 13 teams last week, per Sherman. His doctors believe he can begin throwing in rehab games in June.

During his stint with the Mets, Raley had a 2.48 ERA in 74 games.

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Mets Notes: Why Brett Baty was the odd man out, how much time Luis Torrens will see behind the plate

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza discussed a number of different topics prior to Friday’s series opener against the Washington Nationals…

Baty the odd man out

With Jeff McNeil officially returning from the IL, the Mets opted to send Brett Baty to Triple-A.

Baty did make the decision a bit more difficult with his strong play over the past few weeks following a brutal start to the season -- but the Mets chose to hang onto Jóse Azócar and Luisangel Acuña over him. 

Mendoza’s reasoning: there simply wouldn’t be enough playing time. 

“It was a difficult conversation, but that’s just part of the business,” the skipper said. “It’s a different feeling for him now going back to Triple-A knowing that I can play at this level, as opposed to when he was struggling. 

“We’re sending you down because there won’t be enough playing time -- I know it’s tough, but he’ll be back.”

McNeil is expected to receive the bulk of the starts at second base moving forward -- but Mendoza said he’d also be comfortable with using him in center and they’ll find ways to keep Acuña fresh.

How things are shaping up behind the plate 

McNeil isn’t the only one returning from the IL for Friday’s contest. 

Francisco Alvarez is also set to make his season debut behind the plate after missing the first 25 games due to a broken hamate bone he suffered while taking swing in batting practice early in spring training. 

Hayden Senger was optioned down to Triple-A along with Baty.

Luis Torrens now finds himself relegated back to the backup role -- but after his tremendous start to the season on both offensively and defensively, Mendoza said they’ll also find ways to keep him in the mix.

“They’re both going to play,” he said. “I have to take care of Alvy. Whether he plays back-to-back with an off day, day games, night games -- I’ll have that conversation with Luis and I’ll try and keep him as active as possible.

“He played really well for us and he earned an opportunity. We’re keeping Alvy back an he’s going to get an opportunity as well. I think it’s a good problem to have, but I could see both of them playing.”

Diaz good to go

Edwin Diaz appears to be good to go after leaving Wednesday's game with a hip cramp.

The star closer suffered the injury in the top of the 10th while navigating his second inning of work.

Diaz said postgame that he was already feeling better after doing some strength tests following his departure -- but the Mets were going to wait and see how he was doing over the next few days.

He was able to play catch pregame Friday and everything came back fine.

Mendoza didn't say whether or not he'd be available out of the bullpen for the series opener -- but it appears he won't miss any time.

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Francisco Alvarez, Jeff McNeil excited to return to Mets’ lineup: ‘It feels like Opening Day’

For Jeff McNeil and Francisco Alvarez -- it feels like Opening Day. 

Technically it is -- they were sidelined for the Mets’ first 25 games of the regular season due to injuries suffered during spring training, but after working their way back over the past couple of weeks they are finally ready to roll. 

Both were officially activated from the IL on Friday and slide right into the starting lineup. 

“It’s feels good,” Carlos Mendoza said. “Getting Jeff and Alvy back helps. Coming into the year they were going to be a big part of this team and this lineup -- they went down and they went through the rehab process and now here they are. They are healthy and ready to go, I’m looking forward to watching them play.”

McNeil is slotted in at second for the series opener against the Nationals, and that’s where he’s expected to see the bulk of his playing time -- though the skipper said he “wouldn’t hesitate” to use him in center. 

The 33-year-old is open to the idea after spending time there during his rehab. 

“I played a lot of center in college,” McNeil said. “I enjoy being out there, it’s a lot of fun -- I take pride in playing lot of different positions and being really versatile, so wherever the team needs me I’m going play and I’m going to be happy to do it.” 

With his new power-hitting approach and a torpedo bat, McNeil was able to find a ton of success during his handful of at-bats in the minors -- launching a pair of homers and a double while posting stellar 1.112 OPS. 

He’s hoping to be able to carry that production over to the big-league level. 

“I feel really good at the plate,” McNeil said. “Through the rehab assignments I felt like I was hitting the ball harder than I ever have in my career -- so I feel really good with that and hopefully I can keep it going here.”

Alvarez, on the other hand, was struggling to get back into a groove at the plate. 

The 23-year-old put together just seven hits and one homer while striking out 11 times across 44 minor-league at-bats -- but he still feels confident as he continues working with his revamped swing. 

“I’m really excited to be here,” he said through a translator. “During my rehab I was working a lot on my swing to try to feel right, and when I wasn’t swinging I was working a lot on my mentality on what it is that I wanted to do -- so right now I feel really good.”

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Sanchez won't start Tuesday but Phillies encouraged

Sanchez won't start Tuesday but Phillies encouraged originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

CHICAGO — Cristopher Sanchez will not take his turn in the Phillies’ rotation on Tuesday, but the news on his forearm has been promising.

At least one bit of good news during a five-game losing streak.

Sanchez played catch from up to 90 feet on Friday at Wrigley Field, three days after pitching just two innings and leaving a start against the Mets with left forearm tightness. He gave a thumbs-up as he walked back into the clubhouse pregame, signaling that it went well, and will throw a bullpen session on Sunday afternoon.

“Good, very good,” manager Rob Thomson said of Sanchez’ day. “… Hopefully we dodged a bullet here.”

Zack Wheeler will start on Tuesday in the spot that would have been Sanchez’. The Phillies were off Thursday and are again Monday, so Wheeler will actually be pitching on one extra day of rest despite moving ahead of Sanchez in the order. He doesn’t like pitching on one extra day, much less two.

The Phillies’ rotation beyond Tuesday is TBD. The off-days would allow them to start Taijuan Walker, Jesus Luzardo and Aaron Nola on normal rest Wednesday through Friday before re-slotting Sanchez back in on Saturday.

Ranger Suarez is also nearing a return to the rotation. He will throw approximately 80 pitches on Sunday at Triple A in his fourth rehab start. He may make a fifth to get to the 95-pitch range, Thomson said Friday morning.

Marsh progressing

Outfielder Brandon Marsh began a rehab assignment of his own Thursday with Lehigh Valley. He was scheduled to play seven innings in center field on Friday then DH on Saturday.

Marsh is on the injured list (backdated to April 17) with a mild right hamstring strain. He is first eligible to return on Sunday.

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Losing streak reaches 5 for the .500 Phillies, who can't buy a big hit

Losing streak reaches 5 for the .500 Phillies, who can't buy a big hit originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

CHICAGO — The losing streak reached five games and the Phillies are .500 for the first time all season after dropping their first of three at Wrigley Field on Friday afternoon.

The start of the game was delayed by 2 hours and 10 minutes by rain on a chilly, windy morning but the sun made its way out just before first pitch. The Phillies’ offense did not follow in a 4-0 loss.

They fell behind once again and continue to produce an alarmingly low number of extra-base hits. They had none on Wednesday, two on Friday and have five in their last four games. The Cubs had six in this game alone.

The last time the Phillies ended a full inning with a lead was the seventh on Sunday. They’ve played 40 since. The pitchers have had no wiggle room and the hitters haven’t been able to take a deep breath for nearly a week.

“We’re in a little bit of a rut here,” manager Rob Thomson said. “Runners in scoring position, I know we talk about it all the time, but one of these days we’re gonna come through. Really, the threat was in the seventh inning when we got two guys on. The other innings, I don’t think we got a runner into scoring position until there were two outs so you’ve got one shot at it. But you’ve got first and second with nobody out, you feel like that’s the time you need to score.”

The Phillies remain confident this is just a blip on the radar for an experienced group, but the run of mediocrity extends much farther back than the 13-13 start. They’re 46-47 since last All-Star break, 47-50 if you include the NLDS. It’s true that this is a new year, but it’s not so new a team. The Phillies returned most of the same roster and are experiencing the same issues that led to their demise last fall — too much of the lineup going cold at the same time and not enough reliability in the bullpen.

They’ve been shut out three times through 26 games. It took 90 games last season.

“We’re stringing things together and it’s just avoiding us right now,” Kyle Schwarber said. “It can be frustrating, mind-boggling, but overall, if we keep getting guys on base and into scoring position, things are going to start going our way.”

Sometimes, an offense slumps because the ball isn’t traveling over the wall. Sometimes, it’s the elusiveness of the big hit. Sometimes, it’s bad luck. Right now, the Phillies are experiencing all three problems.

They’re 26 games into the season and have only four players with more than one home run: Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Bryson Stott and Nick Castellanos.

Schwarber hit five homers through 10 games but wasn’t going to hit 81. The Phils need to find alternative ways to score when he’s going through a power drought or Harper isn’t locked in. This Cubs team entered the day leading the National League in on-base percentage, slugging percentage, stolen bases and, naturally, runs scored. They’ve been a three-dimensional offense. The Phillies have not.

Trea Turner, J.T. Realmuto, Max Kepler and Alec Bohm are all hitting below .250 with three combined home runs in 396 plate appearances. It’s just not enough.

On top of it all, there’s been misfortune. Harper crushed a ball in the third inning that, according to Statcast, would have been a game-tying home run in calm conditions. But the wind was blowing in 10 to 15 mph from left field and it was a flyout instead. Bohm laced the first pitch he saw in the top of the fourth with two outs and men on second and third but hit it directly at left fielder Ian Happ to end the inning. Realmuto hit a ball on a line with two on and two out in the eighth and Pete Crow-Armstrong needed to glide only a few feet to catch it.

“J.T. hits a bullet, Bohm hits a bullet,” Thomson recalled, shaking his head. “But we’ve got to create some runs, we’ve got to swing the bats better.”

Taijuan Walker (1-2, 2.78 ERA) lasted only three innings because he threw 86 pitches. He again limited the damage and his opponents have hit .179 this season with men on base. The bullpen did its job by allowing two runs over five innings.

But the Phillies couldn’t capitalize on the Cubs’ inability to break the game open, which was also one of the stories of their three-game series at Citi Field. The Cubs were 4-for-22 with runners in scoring position and all of that execution from the pitching staff didn’t matter.

These vets pride themselves on their ability to persevere. Less than a month into the season, it’s already being tested.

“It’s such a long season. You’re gonna go through a long stretch like this where things aren’t going your way,” Walker said. “It really just depends when it happens, you know? We’d rather do it now than late in the season. If we get it out of the way now, can get on a streak and play some good baseball, which I know we can do.”

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Bochy reflects on Giants memories with Posey, Crawford in return

Bochy reflects on Giants memories with Posey, Crawford in return originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO — As he returned to face the Giants in San Francisco on Friday, Bruce Bochy was in a tie for first place in the American League West, but he had a lot on his mind. 

The Texas Rangers have underperformed at the plate, led by familiar face Joc Pederson, who somehow has zero RBI through 21 appearances. On Thursday, they got walked off in Sacramento by the Athletics, and a day after that gut punch, Bochy began his media session by giving a lengthy update on promising young starter Kumar Rocker, who just went on the IL with a shoulder injury. 

The Rangers have a lot to sort out, but Bochy is thrilled he’s doing it in San Francisco this weekend. He said this spring that he was excited to be visiting on a weekend when the organization would honor his longtime shortstop, Brandon Crawford, and on Saturday, Bochy will watch that ceremony. On his first day in town, he had a long chat with Buster Posey behind the plate during batting practice. 

As he settled into San Francisco for the second time as Rangers manager, Bochy discussed Crawford, Posey and more with local reporters: 

On Crawford’s big weekend

“It’s well deserved. This man did so much for us in helping us win championships. He was a tremendous player, a gifted defender obviously, but also a clutch hitter. A lot of great memories will go through my head when I see him out there tomorrow. I’m looking forward to it because of the great memories that we all got to share together. He was such a big part of it.”

Does any play stand out?

“He was so creative with how he could come up with plays. There wasn’t a play that he didn’t think he could make and that’s what you love about him, and there were times he came up with a way to make the play. The one that always will stand out is the double play in the World Series with what was at stake, he and [Joe] Panik, what a beautiful chemistry those two had.”

On Posey’s influence on the 2025 Giants

“I’d say as much as anything they’re playing loose and playing the game right. You know, BoMel [Bob Melvin] does such a great job here, and I’m sure Buster has helped relax things with how approachable he is and how well he communicates. But it’s hard for me to say, because I haven’t seen a lot of [the Giants].”

Could he have imagined Posey being a president of baseball operations?

“I can’t say I should be surprised. I talk about [the] leadership he provided for us and helped us get some World Series rings. He’s a leader and I’m not surprised to see him leading an organization. I’m sure it’s done a lot for the fans, the players, the front office, to have their guy that’s leading the way now.”

On being back for a second time

“I think as time goes, yeah, you still have those memories and the first time there’s emotions and things, but with more time away, you’ve gotten kind of used to it. I came in here knowing I would see some friends here. The first time was a really crazy time, but this time has been a lot quieter.”

On his impression of Jung Hoo Lee

“A really, really nice player. He’s a really good hitter, a gifted center fielder, a good thrower. He’s a really nice all-around baseball player and I know he’s done a great job.”

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Mets activate Francisco Alvarez from the IL

The Mets activated catcher Francisco Alvarez from the IL ahead of Friday's series-opener with the Nationals in Washington, D.C., adding a jolt to their roster.

To make room for Alvarez, catcher Hayden Senger -- who filled in admirably as Luis Torrens' backup during Alvarez's absence -- was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse.

New York will also have Jeff McNeil available on Friday after activating him from the IL on Thursday night.

Brett Baty was sent to Triple-A in the corresponding move for McNeil.

Both Alvarez and McNeil are in the starting lineup on Friday.

Asked earlier this week whether Alvarez would be the starting catcher upon his return, David Stearns did not give a clear yes or no. So the playing time situation between Alvarez and Torrens bears watching.

Regarding McNeil, he's returning at a time when Luisangel Acuña is starting to put his stamp on things at the plate. Acuña has a 111 OPS+ this season, and is hitting .361/.425/.472 over his last 40 plate appearances.

So it stands to reason that Acuña and McNeil will split time at second base.

McNeil also got some time in center field while on his rehab assignment, so it's possible he'll get some burn there in addition to second base and the corner outfield. Carlos Mendoza recently said he's also comfortable using Acuña in center.

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Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Noelvi Marte, Will Vest, Jo Adell

FANTASY BASEBALL WAIVER WIRE PICKUPS

Noelvi Marte (3B Reds) - Rostered in 14% of Yahoo leagues

Reds manager Terry Francona didn’t seem very interested in giving Marte a shot the first time around when the 23-year-old infielder was called up as a result of Matt McLain’s injury; Marte sat on the bench for three games, started two and then was sent back to Triple-A. Fortunately for Marte, it ended up being a very brief return to Louisville, and he was recalled again after Christian Encarnacion-Strand landed on the IL. He was on the bench for two of the first three games afterwards, but he’s started four in a row since, and he’s hit .310/.375/.621 overall in 32 plate appearances.

Alas, that line doesn’t tell the whole story. Six of the eight runs batted in Marte has collected in the majors this season came off Orioles position players in Sunday’s 24-2 rout; he had a grand slam off Jorge Mateo and a two-run double against Gary Sánchez. Exclude those two at-bats and Marte is slugging .444. Exclude the entire game and he’s slugging .364. Still, it’s noteworthy that Marte has struck out just four times so far. He also hit .316/.386/.474 with a 16% strikeout rate in his 10 Triple-A games. On Thursday, he crushed an Edward Cabrera fastball 431 feet. At 116.7 mph off the bat, it was one of the hardest-hit homers in the league this season. This Marte certainly seems more like the player from his 2023 major league audition (.316/.366/.456) than the one who hit .210/.248/.301 after a PED suspension last year.

Marte isn’t locked in as a regular yet, so there are no guarantees here. Still, if he does establish himself as the Reds’ third baseman, he’ll almost surely offer mixed-league value. It’s a great ballpark for hitters in Cincinnati, and Marte will contribute in steals, having gone 17-for-22 in 110 major league games to date. There’s too much upside here to leave him unrostered.

Will Vest (RP Tigers) - Rostered in 8% of Yahoo leagues

Using a 35-year-old Tommy Kahnle, who last reached 50 innings pitched in 2019, as a closer isn’t in the Tigers’ best interests, even if he can do the job just fine while healthy. Beau Brieske was my choice to run away with the role, but he was a victim of one of the season’s unluckiest outings on Mar. 28, burying him with a 27.00 ERA, and now he’s on the shelf with ankle inflammation. That’s opened the door for Will Vest, who seems to have busted out at age 29.

Detroit’s 12th-round pick in the 2017 draft, Vest made his major league debut as a Rule 5 pick with the Mariners in 2021. He posted a 6.17 ERA in 35 innings that year, and the Mariners gave up on him, sending him back to Detroit. He returned to the majors in 2022, and he’s gotten stronger in every season since. Vest averaged 93.6 mph with his fastball as a rookie in 2021. He was up to 95.2 mph the following season, and he’s currently at 96.6 mph, which has helped him to strike out 32% of the batters he’s faced.

Also a strong groundball pitcher, Vest has yet to allow a barrel this season. He might not be treated as a true closer by the Tigers, but he has the team’s last two saves, and there just wouldn’t seem to be any reason to stop feeding him the ball in the ninth.

Jo Adell (OF Angels) - Rostered in 4% of Yahoo leagues

Look beyond the poor .209/.264/.358 line in 72 plate appearances to date. Everything else is trending up for Adell this year. His 14% barrel rate is in the 81st percentile of big leaguers. His .279 xBA and .490 xSLG are 79th and 75th percentile, respectively. His contact numbers are the best of his career, and his 23.6% strikeout rate is a big improvement on his career mark of 32.2% and only a little worse than the league average. That’s especially impressive given that he’s also pulling the ball more than ever before; of the 243 players with 60 plate appearances, his 52% pull rate is 23rd highest in the league.

Of course, everyone who has ever bet on this being the time Adell puts it all together has come away disappointed. But it’s not like he truly needs to put it all together. He managed 20 homers and 15 steals in 130 games last year, and he pretty clearly seems like a better player now. He still possesses absolute top-of-the-line bat speed. Only six players (Junior Caminero, Oneil Cruz, Jordan Walker, Yordan Alvarez and Shohei Ohtani) have bested his swing speed average of 76.6 mph this season. Combining that with something close to an average strikeout rate, an average flyball rate and an above average pull rate pretty much has to lead to good things. Maybe it won’t be an average that matches his .279 xBA, but .240-.250 with 25 homers and a few steals is well within reach.

Waiver Wire Quick Hits

- I’m not going to give Tigers starter Reese Olson another full writeup after just doing so three weeks ago, but he needs to be rostered in way more than 25% of Yahoo leagues.

- The Reds’ Tyler Stephenson should return from his strained oblique next week, and he’s a solid bet to be a top-10 catcher the rest of the way after ranking eighth at the position last year. He’s available in 59% of Yahoo leagues at the moment.

- Tony Gonsolin is also about to come off the injured list after allowing two runs over five innings in his fourth start for Triple-A Oklahoma City on Wednesday. He wasn’t great last year, and he’ll probably miss more time due to injury at some point, but pretty much everyone starting games for the Dodgers is at least a streaming option in mixed leagues, and Gonsolin is available in 94% of Yahoo leagues.

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Fantasy baseball two-start pitchers: Jack Flaherty fronts the list of terrific options for week of April 28th

Hello and welcome to the fifth installment of our weekly two-start pitcher article for the 2025 MLB season.

I'll be here every Friday to highlight some of the best two-start pitcher options in fantasy baseball leagues for the upcoming week, as well as some streaming options to keep in mind.

Thinking ahead with your weekly strategy can give you an advantage on the waiver wire and hopefully be a difference-maker in the standings at the end of the season.

This is a living document, so we'll update the options below as the weekend moves along.

Before we get into it, we'll start with a couple of notes on situations that may be unresolved or teams that may not have a two-start pitcher lined up for the upcoming week:

Someone is going to step into Spencer Strider’s spot in the Braves rotation and likely make two starts next week (@ Rockies, vs. Dodgers), but regardless of who it is that seems like a daunting task.

We also know that someone will take the ball for the White Sox on Tuesday and will likely see two starts during the week (vs. Brewers, vs. Astros). We all know that the White Sox aren’t a smart place to go shopping for victories and regardless of who it is making those starts, I’m inclined to shy away. My best guess at the moment is Bryse Wilson.

I’m also working under the assumption that no one on the Red Sox is going to start twice next week. Sean Newcomb currently lines up for two starts, but Lucas Giolito is expected to rejoin the rotation on Thursday. Newcomb seems the most likely to get bumped from the rotation, but even if he isn’t, if they shift everyone else back, then no one would get two starts.

It's possible that Reese Olson could also double for the Tigers (@ Astros, @ Angels), if they don’t opt to use a sixth starter or a bullpen day in the middle of the week to give the rest of their rotation an extra rest. We’ll know more before the weekend is through hopefully. If he does though, I’m using him in all 15 and 12 team formats.

We're still waiting on information from the Phillies on Cristopher Sánchez (forearm) and whether or not he'll be able to make his scheduled start. If he remains on schedule, he would be lined up for two starts next week (vs. Nationals, vs. Diamondbacks). There's also a possibility that Ranger Suarez jumps into his spot in the rotation and makes those starts, which would make him an intriguing option for next week.

Nick Pivetta could wind up with two starts for the Padres during the upcoming week. The Padres have just five games scheduled, but with Kyle Hart optioned to Triple-A El Paso, they may just use the off days to go to a four-man rotation for this trip through. If he does, he'll be one of the better options on the week, taking on the Giants at home and the Pirates in Pittsburgh. Stay tuned.

No one on the Mariners is expected to start twice next week with only five games on the schedule. It's possible that Bryan Woo could on regular rest if they wanted him to start on Tuesday, but it feels like Emerson Hancock is going to stick in the rotation and take the ball on Tuesday against the Angels.

Without further ado, let's dig into the options for the week of April 28.

Going Twice…

Note: Probable pitchers as of Friday, April 11, and are subject to change.

American League

Strong Plays

Jack Flaherty (@ Astros, @ Angels)

For the third consecutive week we’re putting Flaherty as a strong play, and this time it actually looks like he’s going to make two starts. Even if the Tigers use a sixth starter to give guys extra rest, they have a seven-game week and Flaherty will still take the ball twice. He has run into bad luck with just one victory on the season, but he sports an outstanding 2.63 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and a 34/9 K/BB ratio over 27 1/3 innings through his first five starts. He should be started in 100% of leagues this week.

Jacob deGrom (vs. Athletics, vs. Mariners)

It's hard to know what exactly to think of this new version of deGrom that's purposely trying to pitch at slightly diminished velocity in an effort to remain healthy. So far, so good as he's made it through his first five starts without any injury concerns. He's still looking for his first victory on the season though despite a strong 3.33 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and a 26/7 K/BB ratio through his first 27 innings. I'd be absolutely shocked if he didn't land that first win this week and there's a possibility that he winds up with two given how strong the matchups are. He's one of the top options on the board this week and should be started in every league.

Cole Ragans (@ Rays, @ Orioles)

As of now, Ragans is currently penciled in for two starts next week, though after he exited Thursday’s start due to groin tightness, there’s no guarantee that he takes the mound at all. If he is cleared to start on Tuesday, fantasy managers should obviously be rolling the star southpaw out there. Despite his 4.40 ERA on the season, his 1.17 WHIP has been helpful and he leads the American League with 46 strikeouts through 30 2/3 innings. His xERA (2.44) and xFIP (2.54) show that he’s been much better than the inflated ERA would have you believe. Better times are coming and Ragans should be a staple in fantasy lineups each and every week – provided he’s healthy.

JP Sears (@ Rangers, @ Marlins)

It’s crazy to think that five weeks into the 2025 season we’re recommending JP Sears as a strong option for his upcoming two-start week, but the way that the 29-year-old southpaw is throwing the ball at the moment, it makes perfect sense. Sears has posted a stellar 3.21 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and a 23/6 K/BB ratio over 28 innings through his first five starts, though his ERA estimators are slightly higher. The fact that he’s pitching on the road for both starts is actually a positive given the way that Sutter Health Park has been playing, and the matchup against the Marlins is exactly what you’re looking for. Sears should be started with complete confidence in all formats this week.

Jack Leiter (vs. Athletics, vs. Mariners)

We're working under the assumption on this one that Leiter steps in to the rotation spot that was vacated when Kumar Rocker landed on the injured list this week. If so, Leiter returns to one of the most attractive two-steps of any starter on the board this week — battling the Athletics and Mariners with both starts coming at home. There's risk here that the blister issue crops up again, or that his pitch count could be limited in his first start back, but given the quality of the matchups and the excellent work that we have seen from Leiter this season, he's someone that you're going to want to start in any league that you can this week.

Bowden Francis (vs. Red Sox, vs. Guardians)

Francis hasn't been quite as dominant through his first five starts as he was to finish the 2025 season, but he's still been very good with a 2-3 record, 3.58 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and a 22/9 K/BB ratio over 27 2/3 innings. Strikeouts aren't his game, so don't expect double-digit punchouts from his two starts, but the quality ratios should be there once again this week and the chances of earning a victory are solid given a pair of decent matchups — both of them coming at home. I'd start Francis with confidence in all leagues next week.

Decent Plays

Tomoyuki Sugano (vs. Yankees, vs. Royals)

The 35-year-old right-hander has quietly done a very nice job for the Orioles through his first five MLB starts – registering a 3.54 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and a 9/5 K/BB ratio over 28 innings. Strikeouts obviously aren’t his game, so you shouldn’t expect more than a handful from his two start week, but he has won two games already this season and he’ll have a decent shot at adding a third to his total this week. He has gone seven innings in each of his last two starts and seems to be getting better as he gets settled in with the O’s. In 15’s I’m interested in using him this week and I may even look his way in 12-teamers if I didn’t have any better options.

J.T. Ginn (@ Rangers, @ Marlins)

Ginn has had mixed results in three starts since joining the A’s rotation, compiling a 4.61 ERA, 1.54 WHIP and a 15/6 K/BB ratio over 13 2/3 innings. He’s only gone deep enough to earn a victory once during that stretch and the Rangers knocked him around pretty good his last time out. That was in Sacramento though, and pitching on the road will actually play to his benefit this week. If you’re looking to gamble on a streamer with the intention of adding wins and strikeouts to your team, I think that Ginn is in play this week, especially in 15-team formats. Just be aware that the range of outcomes here is very high. It’s very possible that he could get blasted in that first start against the Rangers and find himself shipped back to Triple-A Las Vegas before getting the benefit of taking on the Marlins in Miami.

Tanner Bibee (vs. Twins, @ Blue Jays)

I’m having a very hard time getting a read on Tanner Bibee right now. He was obviously drafted to be a frontline starting pitcher by fantasy managers and through his first five outings he has been anything but – posting a cringe-inducing 5.19 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and a 20/14 K/BB ratio over 26 innings. It’s an extremely small sample, but he has been much better at home this season and is coming off his strongest start of the year in a victory over the Yankees. If you have him, you have to use him for this two-start week and hope for the best. Just be aware that there’s ratio risk involved.

Ronel Blanco (vs. Tigers, @ White Sox)

After a breakthrough 2024 campaign, Blanco has failed to live up to expectations through his first five starts of the 2025 season, posting an underwhelming 5.01 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and a 20/12 K/BB ratio over 23 1/3 innings. The only saving grace this week is the matchups are in his favor. While the Tigers are a strong team, their offense is very inconsistent and a matchup against the White Sox seems ripe for the taking. Don’t expect him to suddenly recapture the magic that he showed in 2024, but this is as good of a week as you’re going to get to roll Blanco out there this season.

Jack Kochanowicz (@ Mariners, vs. Tigers)

Kochanowicz got some love from fantasy managers as a trendy late-round selection near the end of March but he has stumbled through his first five starts on the season, posting a miserable 5.47 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and a 13/8 K/BB ratio over 26 1/3 innings. If we’re looking on the bright side though, that poor start means he’s probably available to be added in most mixed leagues, assuming you want to take the risk. He has pitched well in each of his last two starts and the matchups aren’t going to get much better this season. He isn’t going to deliver a big strikeout total over his two starts, but he’ll have a decent shot at a victory and shouldn’t present as a major ratio risk. I’d use him in 15-teamers where I could get him.

Bailey Ober (@ Guardians, @ Red Sox)

Ober hasn't lived up to expectations through his first six starts, registering a troublesome 5.04 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and a 23/7 K/BB ratio through his first 25 innings. The underlying metrics also seem to support those numbers, meaning he has actually been this bad. We know that we've seen better from Ober in the past and want to be able to rely on him for a two-start week, but the matchups against the Guardians and Red Sox — both on the road — aren't ideal. In 12-team leagues, I'd try to sit him if I had better options. In 15-teamers, I think you have to just use him and hope for the best.

Taj Bradley (vs. Royals, @ Yankees)

Bradley has all of the talent in the world he just hasn't been able to put it together consistently at the game's highest level. As you'd expect, his first five starts have been riddled with inconsistency, leading to a 2-1 record, 5.08 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and a 27/12 K/BB ratio over 28 1/3 innings. The strikeouts are nice, and he's a threat to earn a victory any time that he takes the ball, but you're also putting your ratios on the line any time that you trot him out there. The matchup against the Yankees in New York is particularly terrifying. It may wind up working out, and in 15-teamers you probably have to take the chance, but you're playing with fire on this one.

At Your Own Risk

Luis L. Ortiz (vs. Twins, @ Blue Jays)

Ortiz was a popular breakout pick this spring but has failed to deliver through his first five starts, posting a troublesome 5.19 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and a 20/14 K/BB ratio over 26 innings of work. The matchups are decent and getting to battle Chris Paddack in that first one is especially juicy, but there’s a ton of ratio risk involved here as well. If you’re already well behind in victories and strikeouts and need to make up ground, he’s worth a look, otherwise I’d probably steer clear.

Chris Paddack (@ Guardians, @ Red Sox)

To say that Paddack has struggled through his first five starts would be a massive understatement. He's 0-3 with a 6.45 ERA, 1.61 WHIP and a 20/13 K/BB ratio over 22 1/3 innings. With Zebby Matthews knocking on the door to the big leagues and Paddack being such a dumpster fire, there's always the possibility that he doesn't wind up making two starts during the upcoming week. Regardless, he should be nowhere near fantasy lineups at this point — even in the deepest of leagues.

Will Warren (@ Orioles, vs. Rays)

The 25-year-old hurler hasn't quite delivered what the Yankees were hoping for when he stepped into the rotation to start the season, posting a 4.79 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and a 21/10 K/BB ratio over 20 2/3 innings. The matchups are tough this week as well, taking on a pair of good offenses in hitter's parks. If you're desperate for a streaming option and want to take a shot, I can't fault you for that, just know that there's very real risk one of these starts turns into a disaster.

National League

Strong Plays

Shota Imanaga (@ Pirates, @ Brewers)

Imanaga was drafted by most fantasy managers to be a staple at the top of their rotations and through his first six starts on the season that’s exactly what he has been – going 2-1 with a 2.38 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and a 27/12 K/BB ratio over 34 innings. Sure, you’d like to see more strikeouts, but you’ll absolutely take what you have gotten out of him so far. He should be an automatic start every week, especially when it’s a two-start week with a pair of favorable matchups. He’s one of the best plays on the entire board this week.

Freddy Peralta (@ White Sox, vs. Cubs)

Peralta has been a monster for fantasy managers through his first six starts of the season, going 2-2 with a 2.43 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and a 36/11 K/BB ratio over his 33 1/3 innings. You’d like to see at least one more victory given how well he has pitched thus far, but Peralta has been delivering ace-level production to start the 2025 season. That should continue this week with a terrific matchup against the light-hitting White Sox in Chicago before a tough divisional battle against the Cubs to finish the week. There shouldn’t be a decision here, Peralta needs to be started in every league this week.

Logan Webb (@ Padres, vs. Rockies)

Despite being doubted every season in fantasy drafts, Webb continues to exceed all expectations. He has been nothing short of dominant through his first six starts on the year, posting a 3-1 record, 1.98 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and a 44/10 K/BB ratio over 36 1/3 innings. If he keeps up the increased strikeout rate, the sky is the limit for him this season. He should be started every week regardless of matchups, it's just a bonus that he draws two starts for the upcoming week, one of them being at Petco Park against the Padres and the other in a premium matchup at home against the hapless Rockies.

Brady Singer (vs. Cardinals, vs. Nationals)

Through his first five starts, Singer has been everything the Reds were hoping for when they acquired him over the winter, going 4-0 with a 3.62 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and a 32/9 K/BB ratio over 27 1/3 innings. I’d rather see him on the road for both of these starts rather than pitching in the cozy confines of the Great American Ballpark, but Singer has done enough so far to earn our trust every week. He should be started in all formats.

Eduardo Rodriguez (@ Mets, @ Phillies)

Rodriguez has actually pitched pretty well this season, registering a 4.40 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and a 34/7 K/BB ratio over 28 2/3 innings through his first five starts. While the ERA looks inflated, his 2.86 xERA and 2.83 xFIP hint that much better results are on the horizon. The Matchups are tough – having to battle both the Mets and Phillies on the road – but he also has the backing of the powerful Diamondbacks’ offense and has a chance to secure a victory every time that he takes the mound. Even if the ratios aren’t pristine, he should deliver double-digit strikeouts on the week. That’s enough for me to use him in all formats this coming week.

Dustin May (vs. Marlins, @ Braves)

The Dodgers have shifted their rotation around as much as any team this season, as evidenced by this being the third time that we have written up May as a potential two-start option only to see him get moved back or have the Dodgers insert a sixth starter into the rotation. That same risk is there this week, but the fact that his first start comes against the Marlins in Los Angeles is still enough that we should be rolling him out there in all leagues. May was blasted for seven runs on 10 hits against the Cubs his last time out yet still holds a solid 3.64 ERA and 1.18 WHIP over 22 innings on the season. This feels like a nice bounce back spot for him this week.

Andrew Heaney (vs. Cubs, vs. Padres)

Heaney has been an unbelievable addition to the Pirates' rotation so far, going 2-1 with a minuscule 1.72 ERA, 0.77 WHIP and a 31/6 K/BB ratio over 31 1/3 innings. He obviously isn't going to continue dominating at this level, but we have seen Heaney be a viable mixed league option in the past, so this isn't completely unprecedented. He's taking on two tough offenses but pitching at home at PNC Park for both should help to mitigate the risk of the long ball. If you have him rostered and have reaped the rewards so far, I think you continue to roll him out there this week, no questions asked.

MacKenzie Gore (@ Phillies, @ Reds)

Gore has really started to deliver on his long-held promise through his first six starts this season, going 2-3 with a 3.34 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and a 53/9 K/BB ratio over his first 35 innings. That strikeout total currently leads the National League and the WHIP is infinitely better than anything that we have ever seen from the 26-year-old southpaw. Both matchups and ballpark environments are tough this week, but I think you have to roll Gore out there in 12-teamers for sure based on how well he has pitched thus far. In shallower leagues, if you have better options, perhaps you can get away from it. I'm using him anywhere that I have him.

Decent Plays

Nick Martinez (vs. Cardinals, vs. Mets)

The overall line for Martinez this season looks painful, as he’s 0-3 with a 5.40 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and a 23/9 K/BB ratio across 26 2/3 innings. If there’s any reason for optimism, it’s that he pitched a bit better his last time out, though that was against the Marlins in Miami. The matchups are decent enough that I could see trying to roll the dice here to make up ground in strikeouts in deeper mixed leagues. In 12-teamers I’m probably shying away though.

Griffin Canning (@ Nationals, @ Cardinals)

The Mets seem to have unlocked what the Angels never could with Canning, as he sits at 3-1 with a 3.12 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and a 26/11 K/BB ratio over 26 frames in his first five starts. The WHIP is a problem, but the rest of the production is certainly worthy of being started weekly in most mixed leagues. He draws a pair of road starts for the upcoming week and neither matchup is one to shy away from. He's a player that I would be comfortable starting in all leagues.

David Peterson (vs. Diamondbacks, @ Cardinals)

Similar to teammate Griffin Canning above, Peterson sets up well this week and has been an asset everywhere except WHIP to open the 2025 season. Through five starts he boasts a 3.29 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and a 28/9 K/BB ratio over 27 1/3 innings. He makes for a strong streaming option any place where he may be available.

Trevor Williams (vs. Mets, @ Reds)

Usually a reliable streaming option for his two-start weeks, we have seen Williams stumble through his first five starts this season — posting an uninspiring 5.11 ERA, 1.58 WHIP and a 21/7 K/BB ratio over 24 2/3 innings. His xERA (3.89) and xFIP (3.91) seem to think he has been a bit better than the inflated ERA indicates though, so if you think that this is the week that his luck starts to even out, you could try rolling him out there in deeper leagues. He'll be on my bid lists for sure, though I won't be confident about it.

At Your Own Risk

Germán Márquez (vs. Braves, @ Giants)

At this point, you know exactly what you’re getting from Márquez. He’s capable of throwing the occasional gem – even at home – but is also very likely to get clobbered from time to time. If you need strikeouts and a shot at a victory and don’t mind throwing your ratios to the wind, you could try shopping here. I wouldn’t advise watching his starts though, as they aren’t for the faint of heart.

Chase Dollander (vs. Braves, @ Giants)

You’d like to think that the Rockies’ top pitching prospect would get at least a bit more love than his teammate above, but Dollander has registered a miserable 7.91 ERA and 1.71 WHIP to go with his 21/7 K/BB ratio over 19 1/3 innings. He has also served up a league-leading eight home runs, and making one of his starts at Coors Field this week isn’t going to help that. He’ll give you strikeouts, which may be enough for you to throw him out there, just know what you’re getting yourself into.

Edward Cabrera (@ Dodgers, vs. Athletics)

In his first three starts since returning from the injured list, Cabrera has struggled to a 6.14 ERA and 1.43 WHIP over 14 2/3 innings, though he has racked up 18 strikeouts in the process. That’s kind of what you should expect to get from the 27-year-old right-hander. He possesses strikeout upside that’s hard to find on the waiver wire, but he’ll also negatively impact your ratios most weeks. Taking on the Dodgers in Los Angeles isn’t going to help, but a home date with the A’s to finish the week is much more palatable. If you really need the strikeouts and can stomach the ratio hit, then he’s worth a look.

Miles Mikolas (@ Reds, vs. Mets)

Every time he pops up for two starts I'll be here to tell you that it's a bad idea to stream Miles Mikolas. This week is no exception. The fact that he has to battle the Reds in Cincinnati before facing the Mets at home only adds fuel to that fire. I get that he's coming off one of his best starts of the season, but he still holds a gruesome 5.70 ERA and 1.52 WHIP over 23 2/3 frames on the year and has recorded only 13 strikeouts in total. He shouldn't be started anywhere except the deepest of NL-only leagues.

Streamer City

Here are a couple of my hand-picked streaming options for the upcoming week that are readily available in most fantasy leagues. I’ll track these results throughout the season so you can see how my recommendations have performed.

American League

Osvaldo Bido, Athletics, RHP (@ Marlins - Friday 5/2)

We're going to keep attacking the weaker offenses in the league wherever we can, and the Marlins definitely qualify there. Bido hasn't been great overall this season, but he should be able to handle this Marlins' offense without much trouble. The fact that it's in Miami instead of West Sacramento actually benefits Bido as well. He's only rostered in six percent of Yahoo leagues and makes for a nice streaming play.

National League

Jordan Hicks Rockies, RHP (vs. Rockies - Saturday 5/3)

Hicks has had his ups and down so far this season, but he has continued to rack up strikeouts even when he isn't at his best. Getting to take on the pitiful Rockies' lineup in the pitcher-friendly confines in San Francisco seems like a recipe for success. Hicks is rostered in only 13 percent of Yahoo leagues at the moment and looks like one of the best streaming options that's readily available for next week.

Last Week's Review

David Festa Twins, RHP (vs. White Sox - Wednesday 4/23)

Not exactly what we were looking for from Festa, but not a complete disaster either. He gave up two runs on four hits and three walks over his four innings of work while punching out five. He would have been in line for a victory if he would have made it through five innings, but needing 84 pitches to get through four it simply wasn't in the cards.

Andrew Abbott Reds, LHP (vs. Marlins - Wednesday 4/23)

This one should be graded as an incomplete, as the Reds shuffled their rotation and instead of drawing a premium matchup against the Marlins, Abbott will battle the Rockies at Coors Field on Friday. We'll see how it goes.

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Astros at Royals prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for April 25

It's Friday, April 25, and the Astros (13-11) are in Kansas City to take on the Royals (12-14). Hayden Wesneski is slated to take the mound for Houston against Seth Lugo for Kansas City.

The Houston Astros are coming off a three-game sweep of the Toronto Blue Jays. They last played on Wednesday. They won 3-1. Ryan Gusto picked up the win. He pitched 5.2 innings, gave up three hits, and just one earned run.

The Royals have won four straight and are coming off a sweep of the Colorado Rockies.

Michael Lorenzen was fantastic on the mound. He picked up the win and struck out seven batters.

Lets dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch tipoff, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

Game details & how to watch Astros at Royals

  • Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
  • Time: 7:40PM EST
  • Site: Kauffman Stadium
  • City: Kansas City, MO

  • Network/Streaming: FanDuel Sports Network Kansas City, Space City Home Network

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

Odds for the Astros at the Royals

The latest odds as of Friday:

  • Moneyline: Astros (-123), Royals (+104)
  • Spread:  Astros -1.5
  • Total: 8.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Astros at Royals

  • Pitching matchup for April 25, 2025: Hayden Wesneski vs. Seth Lugo
    • Astros: Hayden Wesneski, (1-1, 3.91 ERA)
      Last outing (San Diego Padres, 4/19): 5.0 Innings Pitched, 2 Earned Runs Allowed, 6 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 4 Strikeouts
    • Royals: Seth Lugo, (1-3, 3.90 ERA)
      Last outing (Detroit Tigers, 4/19): 6.2 Innings Pitched, 3 Earned Runs Allowed, 5 Hits Allowed, 2 Walks, and 5 Strikeouts

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Astros at Royals

  • The Astros have won 4 of their last 5 at AL Central teams
  • 4 of the Astros' last 5 matchups against American League teams have gone under the Total
  • The Astros are 7-3 against the Run Line in their last 10 games with a rest advantage

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Astros and the Royals

Rotoworld Best Bet

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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Friday's game between the Astros and the Royals:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Houston Astros on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Kansas City Royals at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the over on the Game Total of 8.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)