Latest news with #All-Star-level
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Legendary coach warns Dodgers why they're risking Shohei Ohtani's future by letting him pitch
Are the Los Angeles Dodgers creating a ticking time bomb in Shohei Ohtani's shoulder by letting him resume pitching? A legendary pitching coach believes the team needs to end his time as a dual-threat player. Ohtani is one of the greatest talents to ever wear baseball cleats. Not just because he is an exceptional hitter, but because he is an All-Star-level pitcher. The Japanese superstar loves doing both, and the team has allowed him to work his way back to the mound to be a part of the pitching staff. However, legendary pitching coach Dr. Tom House believes he and the team are playing with fire by still thinking he has a future on the mound. Advertisement Related: MLB insider – Los Angeles Dodgers need to trade for Cy Young runner-up to address injury-plagued rotation 'No,' Dr. House said when asked by Pablo Torres recently if Ohtani should keep pitching. 'I think he's a hitter. He's proven all he needs to as a pitcher. I think his value to the ball club is on the field every day. I hope I am wrong [but] I don't think his shoulder can handle it… It's a combination of a bunch of stuff. 'Primarily, the thresholds with heavy weight training are good for hitting, but not for pitching. The everyday stresses of throwing downhill. When you throw on flat ground, the most energy you develop is four times body weight. It's four pounds of energy. When you go down a mound, you get about six times body weight. I don't think his shoulders can handle the deceleration.' Shohei Ohtani stats (Pitching – Career): 38-19 Record, 2.99 ERA, 1.079 WHIP, 614 strikeouts, 174 walks Credit: Peter Aiken-Imagn Images Dr. House admits he hasn't worked with Ohtani and is only seeing things from afar. He does believe his mechanics are sound and his mental makeup is strong. But he doesn't feel his body can hold up doing both. The doctor and former pitching coach's opinion should be taken seriously. Advertisement Dr. House is a legend in MLB circles and is known as the 'father of modern pitching mechanics' and a 'professor of throwing' due to his expertise in blending pitching with the science of arm mechanics. During his career, he worked with Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan and even NFL legends Drew Brees and Tom Brady. Ohtani has made four appearances as a reliever this season. There have been rumblings that his future could be as a closer. However, there have been many around the game who have previously suggested he should not pitch. And instead, play the outfield. His arm and athleticism could make him a gold-glove winner. It is something the team should seriously consider, especially if experts suggest there are huge dangers in his pitching. The Dodgers still have eight more seasons and over $500 million invested in the three-time MVP. Related: Los Angeles Dodgers reportedly get involved in LA's battle against Trump Administration ICE Raids Related Headlines
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Could New York Mets super-blockbuster trade with Boston Red Sox make them World Series favorite? Analyzing the possible cost
The New York Mets have a route to becoming the World Series favorites in 2025. And it could be through a massive super-blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox. But what would be the cost of such a gigantic deal? Despite a shocking slump over the last two weeks, where they lost 10 of 11, the Mets are just three games out from owning the best record in baseball. However, the recent skid did showcase that the team has clear weak spots. And the starting staff may be coming back down to Earth following a hot start to the season. Advertisement Upgrading second or third, designated hitter, the bullpen, and adding a pitcher that can start a playoff game are all needs heading into the July trade deadline. Well, there is a prominent team that could soon be sellers, and has several players that should be up for grabs that can address all of New York's issues. Related: MLB insider suggests bold New York Mets trade idea that sees club give up top 10 prospect for pair of impact relievers 'If they don't mind a modern-day Boston Tea Party with everyone ripping up their tickets, the Red Sox could set the trade deadline ablaze by dealing Alex Bregman before he opts out or trading outfielder Jarren Duran,' USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale wrote this week. 'Boston could part with closer Aroldis Chapman and starter Walker Buehler, who joined in the winter on a one-year deal.' Adding Bregman, Chapman, and Buehler could be the sort of super-blockbuster trade that makes the Mets the team to beat in the NL. But should they pursue such a huge deal? Advertisement Alex Bregman stats (2025): .299 AVG, .385 OBP, .553 SLG, .938 OPS, 11 HR, 35 RBI, 32 R Making the case for New York Mets to make a super-blockbuster trade with Boston Red Sox Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images The New York Mets have the key pieces to be a title contender again in 2025. The trio of Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, and Juan Soto makes their batting order one to respect. When healthy, a starting rotation led by Kodai Senga, Sean Manaea, and David Peterson is formidable despite not being big-name talent. And they have a solid bullpen despite their recent slump. But they need more to go all the way. And the Red Sox have the exact kind of players that could perfectly round out their roster for a World Series run. Bregman is an All-Star-level player who could slot into either second or third. However, placing him at third, letting Ronny Mauricio and Jeff McNeil platoon at second, and moving Mark Vientos to the DH spot could strengthen all three spots with one addition. Plus, Bregman elevates his game in the postseason. Advertisement Aroldis Chapman stats (2025): 1.36 ERA, 0.818 WHIP, 14 saves, 48 strikeouts, 10 walks Despite being 37, Chapman is having a season that could earn him an eighth trip to the All-Star game. He is the sort of dominant reliever the team needs to combine with Edwin Diaz in the playoffs. Dodgers veteran Walker Buehler is having a disappointing season (5-5 record and 6.29 ERA). But the Mets found out last year that he is an absolute gem when the playoffs roll around. Plus, adding him to the rotations could push former Yankees closer Clay Holmes to the pen for the playoffs. At first glance, it would seem like a lot of payroll to add this year and beyond. However, as Nightengale mentioned, Bregman is likely to test free agency in the offseason. Chapman is a free agent after the season. And Buehler has a mutual option the Mets can choose not to use if he disappoints. But what would be the asset cost of such a huge deal? Related: Former New York Mets star pitcher gets one last chance to revive MLB career after sitting out since 2023 What would the New York Mets have to give up for Bregman, Chapman, and Buehler? Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images New York will likely have to part with some meaningful assets in a trade for the Boston trio. However, with Buehler having a down year and all three possibly leaving after the season, it does help bring down the cost somewhat. Advertisement In a potential super-blockbuster for the trio of multi-time All-Stars, top-10 prospects Ryan Clifford and/or Drew Gilbert may have to be included. As well as Triple-A right-hander Nolan McLean. However, elite prospects like Jett Williams, Brandon Sproat, and Jonah Tong will be untouchable in such a trade. Potential New York Mets and Boston Red Sox super-trade Mets get: Alex Bregman, Walker Buehler, and Aroldis Chapman Red Sox get: Starling Marte, Ryan Clifford, Drew Gilbert, Nolan McLean, Luisangel Acuna, Brett Baty, and a player to be named later Of the players that have big league experience, Starling Marte is likely to be included. To send some money back to Boston. Which they won't mind since he comes off the books after the season. Furthermore, fan-favorite Luisangel Acuna likely will be included, and New York may try to add Brett Baty. Despite his recent struggles, the Mets are unlikely to part with former top prospect Francisco Alvarez just yet. Related: New MLB rumor may have just made New York Mets trade for Luis Robert Jr. a lot easier Related Headlines
USA Today
08-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Should the Boston Celtics target a Damian Lillard?
Brad Stevens has been busy to begin the 2025 NBA offseason. He's already traded Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. He also allowed Luke Kornet to walk in free agency, and Al Horford could be the next player to head for Logan Airport. The Boston Celtics' precarious cap situation has largely driven Stevens' choices. Stevens is tearing down some of the roster to rebuild it around Jayson Tatum, then once he recovers from his torn Achilles tendon. Of course, finding ways to re-tool the roster won't be easy. Fortunately for the Celtics, they could land an All-Star-level guard on a team-friendly contract in the coming months. The Milwaukee Bucks recently waived Damian Lillard; therefore, he's free to join any team in the NBA, and the Celtics are reported to hold legitimate interest. Currently, the Celtics fan base appears divided on whether Boston should target Lillard. After all, he's an aging veteran who needs the ball in his hands to be at his best. During a recent episode of WWEI's "Jones and Keefe," hosts Adam Jones and Meghan Ottolini questioned the logic of potentially targeting Lillard, and what he could, or could not, bring to the Celtics roster once he's cleared to play. You can watch the full podcast episode by clicking on the embedded video above. Watch the "Taylor Talks Celtics" podcast on: YouTube: Website:
Newsweek
02-07-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
Red Sox Anticipated to Trade Alex Bregman If 'Two Sides Can't Work Out Deal'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. The Boston Red Sox signed Alex Bregman to a three-year, $120 million deal in the offseason. However, his deal allows him to opt out after the season. Bregman was slashing .299/.385/.553 through 51 games before a quad injury sidelined him, making it evident that he could be an All-Star-level player again. Bregman is likely to opt out for a better deal after proving himself. However, he and his agent Scott Boras have both said they are open to discussing an extension with the Red Sox. The Red Sox reportedly saved over $250 million by trading Rafael Devers, so they can afford to give Bregman a new deal. But The Athletic's Jim Bowden polled 40-plus MLB executives, and some believe Bregman could be traded if a deal is not reached this month. FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - MARCH 5: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox reacts in the dugout before a Grapefruit League game against the Tampa Bay Rays at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in... FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - MARCH 5: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox reacts in the dugout before a Grapefruit League game against the Tampa Bay Rays at JetBlue Park at Fenway South in Fort Myers, Florida on March 5, 2025. More Maddie Malhotra/Boston"This was another shocking name to me, but some execs believe the Red Sox could move on from Bregman at the trade deadline if they can't extend him by then," wrote Bowden. "Bregman and his agent, Scott Boras, have told the Red Sox they are open to signing a long-term extension now. But if the two sides can't work out a deal, don't be surprised if Boston trades him to either the Tigers or Mariners at the trade deadline." The Red Sox could fall out of contention before the trade deadline. If they start negotiations with Bregman and realize that the two sides are far enough apart that a deal in free agency is also unlikely, it would make sense for them to trade him to a contender for a solid return. Bregman has noted how much he has enjoyed playing in Boston, but at the same time, he has established his value again. If the Red Sox do not want to pay him accordingly, another team will. More MLB: Padres Listed as 'Potential Landing Spot' for Orioles $13 Million Starter
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Damian Lillard's feelings revealed after being waived by Bucks
In a move that shocked the NBA on Tuesday, the Bucks signed Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million contract and waived superstar Damian Lillard. However, the nine-time All-Star appears to be taking the news surprisingly well. According to The Athletic, Lillard is ecstatic the Bucks let him go, as he'll now be able to pick from a crop of contending teams — all while still being paid by Milwaukee. Advertisement 'League sources say Lillard is elated with this decision, as it puts him in the kind of basketball-first position that few All-Star-level players, if any, have experienced in league history,' they wrote. Lillard will now be free to choose his next destination as he continues his pursuit of an NBA championship in what has already been a legendary career. Meanwhile, the Bucks will stretch his contract over the next five seasons, paying him $22.5 million annually. The 34-year-old is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 campaign after suffering a torn left Achilles tendon in Milwaukee's first-round playoff loss to the Indiana Pacers. With the Bucks aiming to remain competitive and keep Giannis Antetokounmpo happy, the team found a creative solution to keep their title hopes alive. Lillard could sign with a team soon or wait until next summer, but The Athletic reports he has already received calls from contending teams — a situation described as a 'dream scenario' for the veteran point guard. Lillard spent the past two seasons with Milwaukee after arriving in a blockbuster trade from the Trail Blazers. During that span, he averaged 24.6 points, 7.0 assists, 4.6 rebounds, 3.2 three-pointers and 1.1 steals per game across 131 regular-season appearances. He also posted shooting splits of 43.4/36.4/92.1.
