Author: Mr Bang

  • Marcus Stroman compares Juan Soto to Alex Rodriguez, claims him to be the ‘best hitter’

    Marcus Stroman compares Juan Soto to Alex Rodriguez, claims him to be the ‘best hitter’

    Marcus Stroman compares Juan Soto to Alex Rodriguez, claims him to be the ‘best hitter’

    Marcus Stroman had some huge praise for his new teammate Juan Soto

    Marcus Stroman compares Juan Soto to Alex Rodriguez, claims him to be the ‘best hitter’

    Juan Soto (L) Marcus Stroman (C) and Alex Rodriguez (R) [Image via San Diego Union-Tribune/NY Post/Imago]

    Ahead of the 2024 MLB Spring training, players have started to report to their teams and begin their preparation. Several eyes this season will be on the New York Yankees especially on their two new recruits, Juan Soto and Marcus Stroman.

    They two of them joined the Bronx Bombers this offseason and seem to be getting well together. Stroman has now compared Soto to MLB great Alex Rodriguez and claimed him to be the “best hitter” he had faced.

    Recently, Stroman opened up about the excitement he has to meet the team and gave his thought on Yankee lineups. Now he has spoken about Soto and opened up about he had previously come up against powerful hitters such Rodriguez and David Ortiz.

    I think (Soto) is the best hitter in baseball. I came up in the AL East, I faced Papi (David Ortiz), A-Rod (Alex Rodriguez), I faced all those guys. I think Juan Soto’s judgment of the strike zone is unheard of.

    Marcus Stroman on Juan Soto as per NY Post.

    One question that is haunting the fans though is how long will Soto play in New York. The three-time All-Star will hit free agency next season if the Yankees do not extend his contract. While speaking about this GM Brian Cashman dropped a bold claim and said he does not see many things stopping him from becoming a free agent after the 2024 campaign.
    Related: “Our time is here!” Brian Cashman issues rally cry to Yankees, urges players to push for World Series title in upcoming 2024 season

    Marcus Stroman claims playing for Yankees is the “pinnacle” of baseball

    As Marcus Stroman gets ready for the 2024 season, he can barely consume his excitement. After signing a two-year, $37 million contract, the former New York Mets starter is ready to show the world what he has got. He though has now claimed that playing for the Yankees is the “pinnacle” of baseball.
    I don’t know if I envisioned it but playing for the New York Yankees as an organization is like the pinnacle of the sport. I feel like every player when you embark on this journey to play at the highest level, I feel like everyone wants to be a Yankee at some point.

    Marcus Stroman on playing for New York Yankees as per NY Post.

    Stroman will be hoping to back his talks with an impressive showing in the upcoming campaign. While he may not take the “ace” title away from Gerrit Cole, he would likely try to be their number two pitcher ahead of Carlos Rodon.

    The Yanks will begin their Spring training this upcoming Saturday when they face the Detroit Tigers. Things do not start off easy for them though as after this one month of training, they will travel to Houston to take on their American League rivals Houston Astros in the Opening Series of the 2024 season.

  • Elly De La Cruz accidentally SMASHES teammate Hunter Greene’s car window during Spring training

    Elly De La Cruz accidentally SMASHES teammate Hunter Greene’s car window during Spring training

    Elly De La Cruz accidentally SMASHES teammate Hunter Greene’s car window during Spring training

    Elly De La Cruz’s foul ball found it’s way into the parking lot and smashed the window of Hunter Greene’s car.

    Elly De La Cruz accidentally SMASHES teammate Hunter Greene’s car window during Spring training

    Elly De La Cruz (L) and Hunter Greene (R) [Image via The Hill/Sportsnet]

    It seems the Spring training for Cincinnati Reds‘ youngster Elly De La Cruz is going well. In his debut season, the 22-year-old shattered several MLB records. He is now back to smashing things, quite literally, as he smashed his teammate Hunter Greene‘s car.

    During the Reds’ BP session in Phoenix, Cruz went up against Greene. As the two teammates locked on to a heated training session, Cruz ended up hitting a high foul ball out of the park. Unfortunately for Greene, the ball went and hit his luxurious car and smashed it’s window.

    The two teammates would later share a photo of the incident with De La Cruz holding the ball and Greene pointing to the damage. The pitcher would jokingly ask De La Cruz to pay for it to which he would reply “You make more than me“.

    As per reports from Fox News, the car Greene possess is a Mercedes-MayBach GLS SUV which comes at a price tag of $200,000. Such a luxurious car would definitely cost high price for it’s repairs. Who will eventually pay for this damage remains unclear at the moment.
    Related: Reds’ Elly De La Cruz to hold shortstop position in upcoming 2024 season new infield strategy

    Elly De La Cruz shares his goal for 2024 season

    With the new 2024 season around the corner, players have started preparing for a massive year ahead. Elly De La Cruz has now shared his goal for the upcoming campaign.

    The 22-year-old has electrified the Cincinnati Reds since his debut and has become one of the top stars of his team. While his hitting prowess was once again seen in the training camp, his speed has made him one of the fastest players in the league. He now wants to steal around 80 bases next season.
    Elly De La CruzElly De La Cruz (Image via Yahoo Sports)
    Speaking to the media at the Spring training, he claimed he likes running and was thus interested in stealing more bases than hitting home runs. Whether he will be able to do it or not remains to be seen, he though did show signs of achieving something like that when he stole all bases in one single inning.

    Last year, Ronald Acuna Jr. created history when he became the first member of the 40-70 club. The Atlanta Braves man went to steal 73 bases which played a huge factor in him being named the National League MVP.

    A major reason for the increase in stolen bases in 2023 was the introduction of bigger bases and fielding shifts rules. De La Cruz would be hoping to break the record of Acuna Jr. this year as he tries to help the Reds turn things around and push for a postseason berth.

  • “One of the smartest baseball players,” CC Sabathia COMMENDS Alex Rodriguez’s key contributions to Yankees’ legacy

    “One of the smartest baseball players,” CC Sabathia COMMENDS Alex Rodriguez’s key contributions to Yankees’ legacy

    “One of the smartest baseball players,” CC Sabathia COMMENDS Alex Rodriguez’s key contributions to Yankees’ legacy

    Alex Rodriguez receives praise from CC Sabathia for his pivotal role in the New York Yankees’ success

    “One of the smartest baseball players,” CC Sabathia COMMENDS Alex Rodriguez’s key contributions to Yankees’ legacy

    Alex Rodriguez and CC Sabathia (Image via foxsports)

    Former New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia recently spoke highly of his former teammate, Alex Rodriguez, during an appearance on the Evan and Tiki show as part of the A-Rod Day celebrations. Sabathia, who played alongside Rodriguez for parts of eight seasons, expressed admiration for Rodriguez’s baseball acumen and team camaraderie.

    He emphasized Rodriguez’s keen insight into the game. Moreover, he highlighted moments when Rodriguez provided strategic advice during crucial moments on the field. Sabathia commended Rodriguez as one of the most intelligent baseball players he had ever played with. He recounted instances where Rodriguez offered valuable insights between plays.

    Sabathia said as per audacy:

    Alex was probably one of the smartest baseball players I’ve ever played with.

    CC Sabathia said
    Despite Rodriguez’s often controversial public image, Sabathia portrayed him as a supportive and integral member of the team. Sabathia also revealed Rodriguez’s pivotal role in recruiting him to join the Yankees after the 2008 season.

    He acknowledged Rodriguez’s outstanding performance in the postseason, which helped propel the team to victory. Sabathia reflected on Rodriguez’s clutch home runs and timely contributions, emphasizing his indispensable presence on the field.
    Related: “That swing!!!” – Fans CELEBRATES as Shohei Ohtani makes impactful debut with Dodgers, launching HR in spring training

    The Yankees Legacy: Alex Rodriguez and CC Sabathia

    During their tenure with the New York Yankees, Alex Rodriguez and CC Sabathia emerged as cornerstone figures within the organization. They left an indelible mark on the team’s history. Over the span of eight seasons, Rodriguez and Sabathia played pivotal roles in shaping the Yankees’ fortunes.
    Alex Rodriguez and CC SabathiaAlex Rodriguez and CC Sabathia (Image via sportingweb)
    His offensive prowess, characterized by prolific home run hitting and run production, propelled the Yankees to their 27th World Series championship in 2009. Despite facing controversies off the field, Rodriguez’s on-field achievements solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in Yankees history. Sabathia, renowned for his left-handed pitching prowess, also left an indelible mark on the Yankees organization.

    Leading the MLB in wins in 2009 and 2010, Sabathia played a pivotal role in anchoring the Yankees’ pitching rotation during their championship-winning seasons. Beyond his on-field performance, Sabathia’s leadership and strategic acumen were highly valued by teammates and coaches.

    In reflecting on their respective legacies, Sabathia advocates for Rodriguez’s number to be retired by the Yankees, citing his unparalleled contributions to the team’s success. Despite the controversies that surrounded Rodriguez throughout his career, Sabathia maintained that Rodriguez’s on-field achievements and baseball intelligence warrant recognition among the pantheon of Yankees greats.

  • “Doesn’t give a sh*t,” Ex-MLB player Jonathan Papelbon RIPS Anthony Rendon for comments on baseball, calls him ‘cancer to the team’

    “Doesn’t give a sh*t,” Ex-MLB player Jonathan Papelbon RIPS Anthony Rendon for comments on baseball, calls him ‘cancer to the team’

    “Doesn’t give a sh*t,” Ex-MLB player Jonathan Papelbon RIPS Anthony Rendon for comments on baseball, calls him ‘cancer to the team’

    Jonathan Papelbon calls out Angels for signing a $245 million contract with the team; calls him “a cancer to the team.”

    “Doesn’t give a sh*t,” Ex-MLB player Jonathan Papelbon RIPS Anthony Rendon for comments on baseball, calls him ‘cancer to the team’

    Anthony Rendon and Jonathan Papelbon [Image Credit: Imago/The Athletic]

    Ex-MLB player Jonathan Papelbon recently blasted Los Angeles Angels baseman Anthony Rendon for his comments on baseball in an interview. His comments ruffled up a lot of players and fans alike, as the 6x All-Star took to the ‘Foul Territory’ podcast to rip the baseball player.

    Papelbon not only called out Rendon but also the Angles for signing him a 7-year $245 million contract, calling it “the worst deal in history.” In the interview, Rendon boldly stated that baseball is not his priority compared to family and faith. He even said “I’m leaving” if there comes a moment where he has to choose between career and family.

    Jonathan Papelbon visibly upset about Anthony Rendon’s comments further revealed how the third baseman felt like practicing “was like a chore.” The World Series champion went on to label him “a cancer to the team!” He noted that it was Rendon’s raw athleticism and talent that allowed him on the diamond but his priority list may be one of the reasons for him not being as highly successful as he should be.

    ...he just doesn’t give a sh*t…It drives me absolutely nuts…if this is what you believe, just keep your mouth shut…To me that’s just a cancer in the clubhouse.

    Jonathan Papelbon as per Outkick.

    Jonathan Papelbon blasts Angels for signing Anthony Rendon

    Prior to the 2020 season, the LA Angels penned Anthony Rendon to a 7-year $245 million contract, but according to his ex-teammate Jonathan Papelbon, it was a mistake. He said that when Rendon went into free agency he thought that any team that would sign the 33-year-old “is going to get totally bamboozled”.
    Anthony Rendon and Jonathan Papelbon [Image Credit: Imago/BVM Dports]Anthony Rendon and Jonathan Papelbon [Image Credit: Imago/BVM Dports]
    Papelbon labeled the signing “the worst deal in history” and now labels it as a “cancer” to the team. He said that Rendon has proven his point as he participated in only 52 games in the shortened 2020 season for 60 games. Furthermore, his injuries withheld him for half of the season, making him unable to play.

    Although in the interview, Rendon mentioned how he’s excited for the upcoming 2024 season and he’s feeling prepared for it, his motivation is not his top priority as to his family. For Rendon baseball “is a job” he has to do for a living. He’s even stated that he would leave baseball for his family and faith.

    He said that his priority for the game changed after getting married and becoming the father of four kids. Since joining the team, he has played 200 games with 23 home runs with a hitting mark of .249. Fans and players will be keeping an eye on his game in the 2024 season, after ruffling up the feathers of the baseball community.

  • Kiké Hernandez REVEALS reason for penning $4 million deal with Dodgers despite being ‘intrigued’ by Yankees

    Kiké Hernandez REVEALS reason for penning $4 million deal with Dodgers despite being ‘intrigued’ by Yankees

    Kiké Hernandez REVEALS reason for penning $4 million deal with Dodgers despite being ‘intrigued’ by Yankees

    Kike Hernandez has opened up about why he choose the LA Dodgers over the NY Yankees in the offseason.

    Kiké Hernandez REVEALS reason for penning $4 million deal with Dodgers despite being ‘intrigued’ by Yankees

    Kike Hernandez (Image via Sportsnet)

    Kike Hernandez, the prominent utility player of the Los Angeles Dodgers is now back in South California for his third stint. The 32-year-old re-joined the team on a one-year, $4 million deal from free agency. He has now revealed the reason why he joined the Dodgers despite being “intrigued‘ by the New York Yankees.

    These two teams have been super active in the offseason while actively bolstering their squad ahead of the 2024 season. Hernandez was one option that was explored by both sides.

    In the end it, came to the player’s decision. Hernandez would choose the Dodgers and announce his return on social media. During an interview with Foul Territory, he explained how the National League team has more left-hand hitters and he knew them more than the Yanks.

    I chose the Dodgers because they have a lot of left-handed hitters. Obviously, I have familiarity... The main reason was they were able to guarantee me to start at least against left-handed pitchers to start the year.

    Kike Hernandez on why he choose the Dodgers on Foul Territory.

    Kike Hernandez blasts free-agency market as several stars still struggle to find teams

    The offseason in the MLB this year has produced mixed results. While several huge contracts have been offered to top stars, some big names are still waiting for a new team. Kike Hernandez has now blasted the free-agency market.
    LA DodgersKike Hernandez while playing for the LA Dodgers (Image via Sports Illustrated)
    The Puerto Rican star was one of the players looking for a club in the offseason after becoming a free agent. In his conversation with the Foul Territory, he explained how long and slow the process had gone and claimed it was a “shame” that some of the best players are still not signed.

    It’s been terrible. There’s still a lot of really good quality baseball players... and the fact that they’re still out there, it’s a shame.

    Kike Hernandez on free agent market on Foul Territory.

    Hernandez also alluded teams of collusion during the offseason. This strong claim from him comes after he informed that every team presented the same numbers (deal) to him.

    Some of the established free agents that are still without a team are Jordan MontgomeryJ.D Martinez and Blake Snell. In this list, the biggest shock comes from Snell.

    The 2023 National League Cy Young Award winner has been on the crosshair of the Yankees for quite a while. However, the two parties are finding it difficult to come to a common target and thus agree a deal. With the start of March, the Opening Day is getting closer with no solution in near sight for these free agents. How much long will it take them to land a deal, is something fans are now worried about.

  • “Best pitcher of this generation,” Tigers’ top prospect Jackson Jobe highly praises Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole after dream meeting with his pitching idol

    “Best pitcher of this generation,” Tigers’ top prospect Jackson Jobe highly praises Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole after dream meeting with his pitching idol

    “Best pitcher of this generation,” Tigers’ top prospect Jackson Jobe highly praises Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole after dream meeting with his pitching idol

    Jackson Jobe had his dream come true as he got the chance to meet his pitching idol Gerrit Cole

    “Best pitcher of this generation,” Tigers’ top prospect Jackson Jobe highly praises Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole after dream meeting with his pitching idol

    Jackson Jobe (L) and Gerrit Cole (R) [Image via Prospects Worldwide/NY1]

    As the New York Yankees faced the Detroit Tigers on Sunday for another Spring training game, there was one person who was more excited than anyone else. Tigers’ top prospect Jackson Jabe got a chance to meet his pitching idol Gerrit Cole and enjoyed a good time with him.

    According to reports from MLB, Tigers’ coach A.J. Hinch came forward to schedule this meet. The coach had previously worked with the Yankees ace during his time with the Houston Astros. He perhaps wanted to do something special for the young pitcher and thus arranged this meet.

    In this meet, the two pitchers would have a good 15-20 minutes conversation regarding pitching. For the 21-year-old star it was like a dream come true as he meet one of the person he looked upto. Jobe would later praise the 2023 American League Cy Young award winner when he was asked why he started following him.

    He's probably the best pitcher of this generation... He’s a pro, the way he handles himself off the field as well as on the field... He’s not going to be the loudest guy out there, but he dominates you, and that’s how he goes about business.

    Jackson Jobe on Gerrit Cole.

    Related: “I don’t forget a lot of things,” Yankees ace Gerrit Cole ANNOYED by Daniel Vogelbach’s slow HR trot in Spring training game

    Gerrit Cole hoping to add a ring to his long list of accomplishments

    Ever since making his debut in the major league, Gerrit Cole has achieved a lot of things. A six-time All-Star, part of the 2,000 strikeout club, AL wins leaders, Cole has done almost everything as a pitcher. The 33-year-old now wants to add a ring to his long list of accomplishments.

    A ring in MLB means winning the World Series. This is something he has not experienced and wants to change it this upcoming season.
    (A second Cy Young) is not on the goal list. To go out there and prepare to win a world championship, that’s really at the top of the list.

    Gerrit Cole on what he wants to do in 2024 season.

    Cole may have not won a World Series yet but he does have the experience of playing in the Fall Classic. He was part of the 2019 Houston Astros squad that faced the Washington Nationals that year. He would end up losing Game 1 but made up for his loss in Game 5 with a win. Unfortunately, his team failed to win the championship that year.

    He would now be hoping for a much better outcome on the grand stage than that one. Will the Yankees reach the World Series though is the big question as they had one of their most disappointing season in their history last time out. They will need a much better performance than that to help Cole achieve his top goal.

  • WATCH: Reds’ Elly De La Cruz launches 470 feet moonshot in Spring training against Rockies

    WATCH: Reds’ Elly De La Cruz launches 470 feet moonshot in Spring training against Rockies

    WATCH: Reds’ Elly De La Cruz launches 470 feet moonshot in Spring training against Rockies

    Elly De La Cruz blasted his first Spring training home run of the year against the Rockies.

    WATCH: Reds’ Elly De La Cruz launches 470 feet moonshot in Spring training against Rockies

    Elly De La Cruz (Image via Yahoo Sports/X)

    Elly De La Cruz is well and truly back. After having one of the most electrifying debut season, the Cincinnati Reds youngster is now gearing up for his first full season in MLB. In the recent Spring training game, he once again reminded the world off his hitting prowess.

    The 22-year-old Dominican Republic International recently stole the show in the batting practice session when he accidentally smashed the glass window of Hunter Greene‘s car. He was somehow able to pull the ball all the way back to the parking lot, thus signaling his amazing strength.

    The game between the Reds and the Rockies did not receive much coverage on TV. However, the attention of the fans soon turned towards it as the word spread out De La Cruz launched a 470 feet moonshot off Rockies pitcher Cal Quantrill‘s 1-1 pitch. Check out the footage of his shot from a video shared on X below:

    The ball landed somewhere in the grass field in the right center field. This also turned out to be his first Spring training homerun of the year. Here is another footage of it from behind the home plate which is going viral on social media.

    Despite this towering hit, De La Cruz was unable to save his team from a defeat. The Rockies would end the game on top of the American League Central side by a final score of 10-4.
    Related: “Best pitcher of this generation,” Tigers’ top prospect Jackson Jobe highly praises Yankees’ ace Gerrit Cole after dream meeting with his pitching idol

    Elly De La Cruz working on batting stance ahead of 2024 season

    The expectations are definitely high on the young shoulder of Elly De La Cruz. After making a huge impact in such a short span of time, he has become one of the top names of the Cincinnati Reds. He is thus working on improving his batting stance ahead of the 2024 season.
    Elly De La CruzElly De La Cruz (Image via Bleacher Report)
    The 22-year-old is undergoing some hitting adjustments training with Reds’ batting coach Joel McKeithan. In this, he has decreased his usage of leg kicking and is trying to see the ball longer before swinging his bat.

    We have this new style that we’re working with, and we’re going to try it out in Spring Training and see how well it works. The best thing he’s been teaching me is to just stay back and wait for the ball as long as possible. We’ve been working really well.

    Elly De La Cruz on his hitting stance.

    Another interesting thing is that he is trying to bat more frequently as a switch hitter. This could become a huge problem for opposition pitchers in the 2024 season. It will be interesting to see how the youngstar performs with this improved batting stance.

    On top of this, he will also undergo a change in field position. Though he started his MLB career as a third baseman, as part of the team’s new strategy, he will occupy the shortstop role in the 2024 campaign. It will be interesting to see how De La Cruz will perform with all this changes.

  • Zack Wheeler net worth in 2024: How rich is the Phillies ace?

    Zack Wheeler net worth in 2024: How rich is the Phillies ace?

    Zack Wheeler net worth in 2024: How rich is the Phillies ace?

    Zack Wheeler has agreed on a massive three-year, $126 million contract with the Phillies, leading to questions regarding his estimated net worth in 2024.

    Zack Wheeler net worth in 2024: How rich is the Phillies ace?

    Zack Wheeler (Image via NY Post)


    Zachary Wheeler, also known as Zack Wheeler, is one of the top baseball pitchers. He first entered the league in 2013 as a member of the New York Mets, before joining the Philadelphia Phillies in 2020.

    Wheeler has encountered obstacles along his journey. In 2017, he was tested with resilience when he had to deal with an unexpected injury that temporarily put him on the sidelines. However, his determination was quite strong, pushing him to play again with more consistency.

    His outstanding performance on the field led to him receiving recognition, such as being named the NL Strikeout Leader in 2021. His exceptional skills have elevated him to the status of one of the franchise’s top players, as he is just the third pitcher to achieve over 10 strikeouts in three consecutive starts. Let’s delve into this article more and find about his current net worth.
    Related: Nelson Cruz Net Worth 2024: How much is former MLB player worth?

    Zack Wheeler Net Worth 2024

    Zack Wheeler Contract and Salary

    Zack WheelerZack Wheeler (Image via Fox News)
    As mentioned above Zack Wheeler signed a five-year, $118 million contract with the team. He is now entering his final year of this and will make $23,600,000 in salary. He has also agreed on a three-year, $126 million contract extension which will come into effect in 2025. This would see him make $42 million a year, making his deal the most lucrative one in baseball.

    Zack Wheeler Sponsorship and Endorsements

    Zack Wheeler investment in Houses/Real Estates/Cars

    Zack WheelerZack Wheeler (Image via Yahoo sports)
    After signing his massive contract in 2019, Zack Wheeler brought a huge property. He and his family are said to be residing in a grand seven-bedroom home in Canton, GA. He is reported to spent $1.31 million to claim this house.

    As for his cars, unfortunately there seems to be no information regarding it. With such a huge property, it is likely that he owns some cars which are still mysterious to the outside world.

    Zack Wheeler’s Career

    Zack WheelerZack Wheeler (image by WHYY)
    After excelling in high school he was selected by the New York Mets in the first round of the 2009 MLB Draft. Progressing steadily through the minor leagues, he showcased his impressive fastball and developed a diverse arsenal of pitches. Wheeler debuted for the Mets in 2013, showing glimpses of brilliance despite early injuries. By 2018, he emerged as a top pitcher, while earning a National League Gold Glove Award for his fielding.

    Despite setbacks in 2020, he rebounded in 2021 with over 200 strikeouts, helping the Phillies reach the playoffs. In 2023, Wheeler continued to impress with a career-low 3.31 ERA, 12 wins, and career bests in WHIP and walk rate. His dominant second half of the season was crucial in the Phillies’ playoff success.

    Zack Wheeler’s Wife

    Zack Wheeler and Dominique RizzoZack Wheeler and Dominique Rizzo (Pic credit- Sports Mockery)
    Zack Wheeler is currently happily married to Dominique Rizzo. The couple got engaged on New Year’ Day in 2019 and got married the same year on New Year’s eve. Since then they have parents to three children with one, Winter Wheeler being born recently. Apart from this child, they have a girl and boy named Wesley and Bambi.

  • What is Asian Breeze, the team Trevor Bauer has signed with?

    What is Asian Breeze, the team Trevor Bauer has signed with?

    What is Asian Breeze, the team Trevor Bauer has signed with?

    Trevor Bauer last played in the MLB in 2021

    What is Asian Breeze, the team Trevor Bauer has signed with?

    Trevor Bauer (Image via IMAGO)

    In the MLB Spring training period, teams usually try out different tactics and styles to get their new players to settle in and be ready for the upcoming year. There are though some players who are still without a club including Trevor Bauer. He though will be in action soon and pitch again.

    This is because of the fact that the former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher has signed with a minor league team named Asian Breeze. As a result of this, he will face his ex-team in a training game on March 10.

    Bauer has been out of MLB since the allegation of sexual assault were filed against him. This led to him being suspended by the league in 2021. The pitcher would later move to Japan and sign with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. With no MLB clubs showing interest in him, the pitcher seems to have found a new way to play against an MLB team by signing with the Asian Breeze team.

    According to their website, the team describes themselves as a team that “offers opportunities for baseball players, from children to young people, who will create the next generation of Japanese baseball players, to think and act on their own through overseas challenges, and to develop ‘independence’ to grow themselves“.

    As per reports from Deadspin, the team is not actually based in Japan but rather in Phoenix, Arizona. Bauer will now play with MLB-affiliated teams of this organization and hope to land a professional contract with an MLB team in the upcoming days.
    Related: “I’m pretty good at this game,” Yankees’ Carlos Rodon CONFIDENT for 2024 season despite poor performance in Spring training game against Rays

    Trevor Bauer reported to have paid money to participate with Asian Breeze

    The MLB world was stunned when Trevor Bauer announced his return to the Spring training. Many were confused as to how this was possible as the 2021 Cy Young Award winner was still looking for a team. Thanks to his contract with Asian Breeze, he will get the chance to participate in the Spring training. A new report now suggests that he has paid some amount of money to participate with this organization.
    Trevor BauerTrevor Bauer (Image via LA Times)
    He is though not the first player to pay to the Asian Breeze. According to Sports Illustrated, players typically pay the minor league organization to appear for them. This allows the players to represent them and showcase the world their skills.

    Bauer is now said to have done this too. However, how much amount did he pay to this organization is unknown at the moment.

    The pitcher will now be readying himself to face off against his former team. It is though likely that he will not face the top members of the team and instead go up against some minor league players of the Dodgers. It now remains to be seen whether this will actually help him land an MLB contract.

  • 2x Cy Young winner Blake Snell agrees MASSIVE two-year, $62 million deal with SF Giants

    2x Cy Young winner Blake Snell agrees MASSIVE two-year, $62 million deal with SF Giants

    2x Cy Young winner Blake Snell agrees MASSIVE two-year, $62 million deal with SF Giants

    Blake Snell has an opt-out clause in his contract and could leave the team after one season if he wants to.

    2x Cy Young winner Blake Snell agrees MASSIVE two-year, $62 million deal with SF Giants

    Blake Snell (Image via Imago)

    At long last the answer regarding the future of Blake Snell is finally here. After weeks and months of huge speculation, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner finally has found a new home in the form of the San Francisco Giants.

    A few days ago, reports claimed that Blake Snell was drawing “serious interest” from the Houston Astros and was seeking a two-year, $66 million contract. However, the Astros pulled out of the deal which allowed the San Francisco Giants to come in and get the pitcher.

    According to reports from Jon Heyman of New York Post, Snell joins the Giants on a two-year, $62 million deal. This deal has the opt-out clause which could see him leave the club after one season.

    This deal is reported to have come after the Astros and the New York Yankees, one team who was strongly pursuing him, refused to pay over $30 million in last minute talks. This means that the Bronx Bombers will miss out on another top free agent they had been looking after in the offseason.

    Blake Snell’s signing boosts SF Giants’ pitching rotation

    It was no secret that Blake Snell was one of the top figures in the free agency market this offseason. Coming after a magnificent season that saw him claim his second Cy Young Award, any team signing him would immediately have boosted their pitching rotation. This has happened with the San Francisco Giants as well.
    Blake SnellBlake Snell (Image via Imago)
    Snell will immediately sort in and could form a formidable 1-2 partnership with Giants “ace” Logan Webb. This signing off him also takes pressure off young pitcher Kyle Harrison who impressed several people with his performances last season.

    Apart from that, the Giants also added the experience of Robbie Ray, another former Cy Young award winner in the rotation. Meanwhile, veteran right-hander Alex Cobb could make a return to this setting before the All-Star break after undergoing a hip surgery.

    How well will this pitching rotation work out at the end of the season is something that cannot be assessed at the moment. However, the addition of Snell does give the team the confidence to go out there and compete in the NL West alongside their rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers.

    While the SF Giants line-up may look pale in comparison to the star-studded lineup of their Californian rivals, they too have signed some big names. The addition of South Korean superstar Jung-Hoo LeeJorge Soler and Matt Chapman gives them the offensive power which they seemed to lack in the 2023 season.