Kitchens seen as favorite” (AP) - “It’s possible they’ve already found Cleveland’s ninth coach since 1999 or Dorsey and Co. could be waiting to speak with assistants on teams still in the playoffs.”“Josh McDaniels says he didn’t talk to Browns about their head coaching vacancy and will return to Patriots” (ABJ) - “New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels made it known Tuesday he’s staying put.”“Baker Mayfield has room to grow after historic rookie year” (ESPN) - “There are many ways to sum up the impact of Baker Mayfield’s rookie season with the Cleveland Browns. Perhaps the best comes in the words of a team captain and leader.”“The AFC North belongs to Baker and Lamar now” (WFNY) - “After midfield flag plants David Njoku Jersey , gestures to opposing benches, and unfiltered responses during his time at Oklahoma, the NFL persona should be no surprise.”NFL:“Injuries: Cowboys WR Beasley (ankle) misses practice” (NFL.com) - “Cole Beasley’s status for the Dallas Cowboys’ Divisional Round clash with the Los Angeles Rams is up in the air. The wide receiver did not practice on Tuesday with an ankle injury.”“Cardinals hire Kliff Kingsbury as their next head coach on a four-year contract” (CBS) - “The next coaching domino has fallen Larry Ogunjobi Color Rush Jersey , and it’s a big one that’ll have repercussions across both the NFL and college football.”“Bruce Arians getting the band back together, Bowles to be Bucs’ defensive coordinator” (PFT) - “Arians has already assembled the key members of his staff, Albert Breer reports Sheldrick Redwine Jersey , and one of those will be Todd Bowles as defensive coordinator.”“The Wade Phillips Experience” (MMQB) - “You’re forgiven if you don’t think of defense when you think about the Rams’ late-November win over the Chiefs. Fourteen touchdowns and 105 points were scored that night...” CLEVELAND (AP) — Browns wide receiver Rashard Higgins could miss some games with a sprained knee.Coach Hue Jackson said Monday that an MRI taken on Higgins revealed he sprained his medial collateral ligament while blocking during Sunday’s overtime win against the Baltimore Ravens. Higgins, who is having a breakout season, had three catches for 66 yards and a 19-yard touchdown before getting hurt.Jackson said surgery has been ruled out. He’ll be evaluated “week to week.” The team did not specify which knee Higgins injured.Undrafted rookie Derrick Willies replaced him Sunday and made perhaps the game’s biggest play http://www.brownsfanshop.com/Sione-Takitaki-Jersey , turning a short catch into a 39-yard gain to help set up the game-winning field goal.The Browns are also working out veteran free agent Rishard Matthews. He was released last month by Tennessee.Jackson said he and general manager John Dorsey have not spoken recently about former Dallas star Dez Bryant, who visited the team this summer.

Week 15 of the NFL kicked off last night in Kansas City as the Los Angeles Chargers dropped the Kansas City Chiefs in a Week 1 rematch between two of the top teams in the league. In one of the best of the Thursday night games this season https://www.coltsfanshop.com/Henry-Anderson-Jersey , Patrick Mahomes and Philip Rivers duked it out right down to the wire.The NFL is back on Saturdays with two matchups featuring some of the premier younger talents in the league. Deshaun Watson and his Texans’ team look to start a new winning streak against Sam Darnold and the Jets, who’re fresh off a win of their own after taking down the Bills last Sunday. The Saturday night game features the surging Cleveland Browns behind terrific offensive play from Baker Mayfield and Nick Chubb, against the Denver Broncos and their stingy defense and great run game being Phillip Lindsay.The early slate on Sunday features a number of games you won’t want to watch — such as the Cardinals vs. Falcons, Raiders vs. Bengals, Lions vs. Bills and Redskins vs. Jaguars — but has two wild card hopefuls in the Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings.Elsewhere, the Ravens will look to rebound from their loss to the Chiefs last week when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the Dallas Cowboys take their excellent defense and stellar playmakers to Indianapolis to take on a Colts’ team thats won their last six out of seven games. Saquon Barkley will try to continue his rookie of the year campaign in New York as the Titans travel to take on the G-men, and Aaron Rodgers will look to go 2-0 since the departure of former head coach Mike McCarthy against the stellar Chicago Bears defense in another excitement Week 1 rematch.The Seattle Seahawks have a divisional matchup with Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers as Russell Wilson looks to continue his run at a wild card slot, and the Pittsburgh Steelers will look to end their three-game losing streak at home against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.Sunday Night Football features the Nick Foles-led Eagles against the a Rams team hoping to rebound after their offense was blanked in Chicago. Week 15 finishes up on Monday night where the NFC-leading New Orleans Saints will look to take advantage of a Panthers team in the midst of a five-game losing streak.After a wild week in game picks during Week 14, there’s a three-way tie at the top between Brett Mock, Chris Shepherd and Andrew Aziz. Let’s see how the Stampede Blue staff sees Week 15 playing out.Brett Mock: 119-73 / Chris Shepherd: 119-73 / Andrew Aziz: 119-73 / Stephen Reed: 115-77 / Jared Malott: 113-79 / Elliot Denton: 112-80 / Chris Blystone: 100-77 / Zachary Hicks: 84-77 / Blake Pace: 74-41 / Ana Krasuski 31-29Thursday 8:20 pm ETChargers @ Chiefs (7) | Contrarians: Stephen Reed, Andrew Aziz, Jared MalottSaturday 4:30 pm ETTexans (9) @ Jets | Contrarian: Chris BlystoneSaturday 8:20 pm ETBrowns (7) @ Broncos | Contrarians: Brett Mock, Aziz, Blake PaceSunday 1:00 pm ETCardinals @ Falcons (9) | Contrarian: Chris ShepherdRaiders @ Bengals (5) | Contrarians: Mock, Reed Joe Haeg Jersey , Aziz, Malott, PaceDolphins @ VikingsCowboys @ ColtsBuccaneers @ RavensLions @ Bills (5) | Contrarians: Mock, Reed, Blystone, Elliot Denton, PacePackers @ Bears (8) | Contrarians: Pace, Ana KrasuskiRedskins @ Jaguars (9) | Contrarian: ShepherdTitans @ Giants (6) | Contrarians: Denton, Malott, Zachary Hicks, KrasuskiSunday 4:05 pm ETSeahawks @ 49ersSunday 4:25 pm ETPatriots (9) @ Steelers | Contrarian: AzizSunday 8:20 pm ETEagles @ RamsMonday 8:15 pm ETSaints @ PanthersWhat are your picks for Week 15? Kenny Moore becoming a budding star in Colts defenseMoore, a diminutive player from a small school, has found the perfect fit in the Colts defense and blossomed into a big-play machine.Colts Notebook: Frank Reich Talks Second-Half Struggles Versus Texans | 1070 the FanThe Colts returned to work on Tuesday, keeping their same schedule for a second straight week. What were the takeaways from the Colts Complex on Tuesday?Kravitz: Colts defense has been stellar recently, but Chiefs will be a big test – The AthleticThe Colts defense hasn't seen anybody like Patrick Mahomes, Tyreek Hill John Simon Color Rush Jersey , Travis Kelce or several of the players who Indy GM Chris Ballard had a hand in assembling during his time in Kansas City.T.Y. Hilton Delivers Gutty Effort In Playoff Victory Over Texans | 1070 the FanIn the Colts’ 21-7 victory over the Texans, they received a gutty effort from their star wide receiver. How did T.Y. Hilton look in the team’s Wild Card victory over the Texans?Colts’ run blocking? ‘Controlled, aggressive’ | CBS 4 - Indianapolis News, Weather, Traffic and Sports | WTTVINDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – You can see the look in their eyes. Think of someone who loves rolling of his sleeves, unleashing his inner nasty self and flat wearing you out with a harsh brand of physical football. That’s the demeanor of an offensive linemen when the run game is clicking.Where in the world is Colts quarterback Andrew Luck? – The AthleticHis teammates, despite spending hours per day in the same building, say they never see Luck. They don’t know where he is or what he’s doing. They just know he’s working.Colts Quick Scouting Report: Divisional Round Vs. Kansas City ChiefsThe Indianapolis Colts take their show on the road again this weekend in the Divisional Round of the playoffs as they face off against the league’s top offense in Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.Colts' incredible turnaround happened fast, but was no quick fix - Indianapolis Colts Blog- ESPNHow did Indy go from 4-12 to the playoffs? A healthy QB, the right coach, character and a dream draft by GM Chris Ballard were the main ingredients.Andrew Luck Among Pro Football Focus’ Wild Card Weekend StandoutsAndrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts offense made quite the impression on Pro Football Focus in the team’s 21-7 win over the Houston Texans in the Wild Card round of the 2018-19 NFL Playoffs.Colts Hall of Fame in Downtown Indy on its wayThe Colts have created a position, one charged with preserving the team's72-year history. There may be no man better for that job than Larry Hall.COLTS MEDIA

Fla. (AP) — The Minnesota Twins have talked a lot about how much they like their young core of players.They proved that Friday by locking up a pair of them, signing both right fielder Max Kepler and shortstop Jorge Polanco to five-year contracts.“The idea that you can marry up your current players and core with ones that are coming along the way is a great thought, it allows for sustainability,” chief baseball officer Derek Falvey said at news conference at the team’s spring training facility.“We’ve said all along that there was a core of players,” he said. “We’ve felt strongly of this group since we’ve got here.”The players were originally signed by Minnesota as international free agents in 2009 when they were each 16-year-olds, they started together as roommates and now they’re the cornerstone of what the team hopes will be a successful run.“We’ve got this tremendous core of players coming up,” general manager Thad Levine said. “To have some of that at fixed costs is meaningful. We have the ability to maintain these guys and complement them with championship caliber players — be it within or without.”The Twins went 78-84 last season, a year after earning an AL wild-card spot with an 85-77 mark.Kepler’s contract is worth $35 million and includes an option that could increase its value to at least $44 million over six years. Polanco’s deal is valued at $25.75 million, has two options that could make it worth at least $47.25 million for seven seasons.“I probably would have signed the deal I received last year http://www.marinersfanproshop.com/authen...martinez-jersey ,” Kepler said, bringing laughter from many, including Levine. “Honestly, I’m the type that would play for the minimum. Playing for the minimum is an amazing life. I’m glad the surprise came twice. It worked out this time.”Kepler, who turned 26 on Sunday, grew up playing soccer and tennis in Germany. He remembered how much he enjoyed watching former Yankees star Derek Jeter when he became interested in baseball.He said he started playing baseball in summer camps in Texas.“Leaving family is a hard, but playing something I wanted was a challenge and was very intriguing to me,” he said. “I’m glad I took on that challenge otherwise it would have been soccer and my dad would have been the happiest one in the family.”He played a team-leading 156 games last season, struggling with a .224 average Alex Colome Jersey , but hit 20 homers.Polanco, who turns 26 in July, batted a career-best .288 last year in 302 at-bats after serving an 80-game suspension for testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug.“I remember a couple of months ago we were sitting in the office and going through a very difficult conversation and emotional one for him and for everyone,” Falvey said. “I think when I look back on that and I think about what’s he’s done, when he was faced with the suspension he stayed here. . He worked and he worked every day. He was an impact on our young players.”The news conference was filled with some of the organization’s younger players sitting in seats high up in a room named “Champion’s Hall.”“We signed together, and we grew up together and now we’re here,” Polanco said through a translator.Rookie manager Rocco Baldelli said it sends a great message to the entire organization.“It’s a wonderful day for all of us to be here as Twins, to know that those two young guys are going to be around for a long period of time,” he said. “I think everyone’s going to sleep really well at night.”NOTES: Baldelli watched some of the pitchers throw in the bullpen inside the main stadium. One he was asked about was LHP Martin Perez. “There’s a lot there and it’s a great recipe for success.” he said. . He was also asked about the team training across town http://www.marinersfanproshop.com/authen...martinez-jersey , the World Series champion Red Sox. “It’s a very impressive team,” he said. “They’re pretty dynamic.” SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Chris Paddack’s bid to make history as the San Diego Padres‘ opening day starter appears to be over.The 23-year-old right-hander has been so strong this spring that he was a candidate to become the first starting pitcher to make his major league debut on opening day since Al Gerhauser of the Phillies in 1943.But Paddack was scratched from his scheduled Cactus League start on Monday night. Instead, he pitched in a minor-league game on Tuesday against Seattle at the team’s complex in Peoria. He worked 4 2/3 innings, striking out eight and allowing four runs.“It wasn’t his cleanest outing, but overall he looks strong and we’re very pleased with what he’s done all spring,” Padres manager Andy Green said Tuesday night.While Green hasn’t committed to an opening day pitcher yet, the maneuver appears to take Paddack out of the running. He had been working every five days during Cactus League play, and a Monday start would have led him to Saturday and then the March 28 opener against the San Francisco Giants.Paddack Marcell Ozuna Jersey , ranked the 35th-best prospect by MLB.com — one of six Padres in the top 35 — is two years removed from Tommy John surgery on his right elbow. He was acquired from the Miami Marlins in 2016 for reliever Fernando Rodney.In four Cactus League starts, Paddack has struck out 20 in 12 2/3 innings with just two walks and a 2.13 ERA.“He’s had a tremendous spring, there’s no doubt about that,” Green said.Green said the delay for Paddock was part of his effort to position the entire pitching staff.“Every guy has gotten manipulated to some degree in the last week,” Green said. “We had to start doing that to get guys set up for what we want to go into the season.”

It’s early http://www.indiansfanproshop.com/authentic-b.j.-upton-jersey , but here is ‘a’ look."WhiteFanposts Fanshots Sections Farmers onlyFeaturesPlayoffsHistory/Hall of FameOff-seasonPeer into the FutureCincinnati Reds spring training storylinesNew,119commentsIt’s early, but here is ‘a’ look.ESTShareTweetShareShareCincinnati Reds spring training storylinesThe Enquirer-USA TODAY SportsFebruary 5th is just about the time of year when it is no longer dark at 5 PM. You actually get to see your front door on the way home from work, with winter shutting off the lights for you just before 5:30. With the ball-foot season officially over on Sunday, that means we’re in that short little lull before baseball truly ramps up, with scenes like this one from Cincinnati earlier today there to prop up our excitement.It’s a tad bit easier to track than Santa & Rudolph criss-crossing the sky on December 24th, and when that truck finally makes it to Goodyear, AZ, it’ll be joined shortly thereafter by the pitchers and catchers of the Cincinnati Reds, and spring training will officially begin. So, it’s not quite baseball season, but it’s oh-so-damn-close at this point - close enough that it’s probably time to look at some of the storylines the Reds will be facing.Nick Senzel in CFWe wrote on Friday that Dick Williams had officially tipped his hand, suggesting that the Reds top prospect will get every opportunity to be the team’s CF in 2019, which was a breath of fresh air in many ways. For one, it shows the kind of flexibility in this front office which hasn’t necessarily been there for many years, and that, in theory, could mean more creative ways of managing the roster.Of course, it’s only ‘creative’ in this instance because Senzel has never played CF before. Heck, he’s never played any OF in a professional game before. Blocked at 3B and 2B, he’ll get plenty of chances to show he can fill the void in CF as his way to the big leagues, and while he’s certainly athletic enough to pull it off, it’s going to be a bit of a process, to be sure. How quickly he can stake his claim will be vital, since if he hasn’t done so by the end of March, the rest of his season - and that of the Reds OF - is going to need a very quick regroup.How the newfangled starting rotation shakes outThe Reds have been incredibly aggressive on the trade market this winter, bringing in the likes of Sonny Gray, Tanner Roark, and Alex Wood to help bolster a startingn pitching unit that has been the worst unit in the NL and secord worst in all MLB over the last two years. They’ll join the immensely talented Luis Castillo as the core of the upcoming rotation, but after that things get murky in a hurry.The presumptive #5 starter is Anthony DeSclafani, as the veteran has managed to log a 3 fWAR season independent of a separate 3 bWAR season in his career, and certainly has plenty of upside. That said, he hasn’t been healthy for an Opening Day in three years, with oblique and elbow issues dogging him repeatedly Corey Kluber Jersey , and his 4.83 FIP in 2018 hardly cemented his status as a lock to win a roster spot. He’ll be pressed by the likes of Tyler Mahle, Sal Romano, and Cody Reed, primarily, with the out-of-options Robert Stephenson and whatever semblance of Brandon Finnegan still presumably in the mix, too.While the bulk of the rotation’s core is pretty well obvious, how they perform under the watch of new pitching coach Derek Johnson will be worth watching, too, as will whether Gray looks the part of the Opening Day rock the Reds will need him to be after signing him to what could amount to a 5 year, $50 million extension.Who’s on the bench?Assuming Senzel gets the AAA treatment to start the year for service time issues (even if he shows he’s a capable CF), the day 1 outfield will likely include Yasiel Puig, Scott Schebler, and Jesse Winker - whose shoulder is now healthy. That will punt Matt Kemp to a bench role (on days against RHP, at least), where he’ll usually be alongside backup catcher Curt Casali.After that, though, things get much less clear.Phil Ervin should get a clear shot to be the 5th OF early on, at least until either Senzel is ready or until the Reds determine they need a more defense-first OF capable of covering CF, in which case Jose Siri or Mason Williams could get a call-up. On the infield, Cactus League play might well dictate who emerges. Alex Blandino figures to be a regular backup across the diamond when healthy, but how his knee looks in Goodyear after a shredded ACL/MCL last summer remains to be seen. Blake Trahan is an all-glove, zero-bat guy capable of playing a plus defensive SS, which might well give him the inside-shot at a bench role even if Blandino is healthy. Then, there’s Kyle Farmer, who came to the Reds as the least-known piece in the massive Dodgers trade, who has appeared at C, 3B, and 1B in the big leagues, but also got run at both 2B and SS with AAA Oklahoma City as recently as 2018 in the mix, as well.Then, there’s Connor Joe, who might well get an extended look as a righty bat on the bench given his status as both a Rule 5 draftee and former 1st round pick. His bat took a huge step forward in 2018 in the upper minors, and perhaps there’s something he specifically altered there that has the Reds confident he can contribute more than, say Ricky Vaughn Jersey , Stuart Turner did two years ago when his Rule 5 status earned him an empty active roster spot.Joey VottoJoey Votto is always a storyline. At least, he always should be.The now 35 year old Votto is fresh off a 2018 season in which he led the National League in OBP for a seventh time, but his 125 OPS+ matched a career low thanks to his dingerosity evaporating. After swatting 36 homers in 2017, he hit just 12 in what was largely a ‘healthy’ 2018 season, including just 8 over his final 120 games played.With 5 years and some $132 million still guaranteed on his contract, that power outage was certainly a bit concerning, even if he still managed to contribute in an insanely valuable way. So, the Votto storyline in Goodyear is certainly not if he’s out of gas, but will be more about what role he’s going to be tasked with filling this year.Since he’s Joey Votto, there’s a damn solid chance he shows up and starts hitting the snot out of the ball, something many of his 2018 peripherals suggested shouldda-couldda still happened last year. If so, he’ll still be the battleship in the #3 hole the way he almost always has been, and all will be right with the world. If he looks more like the guy the Reds had in 2018, though, the lineup this year is deep enough and flexible enough to where that might not be his spot everyday anymore, with the likes of Eugenio Suarez, Scooter Gennett, Yasiel Puig, and Jesse Winker all expected to be potent offensive forces.Votto in the #2 spot has long been something many of us have advocated to see, and that could be something that happens more often in 2019 than it has in recent years.David Bell and his managerial strategyBell, of course, is the new Reds manager, and is also managing a big league club for the first time in his career. His blend of front office and dugout experience alongside his lengthy playing career make him oft regarded as a budding star as a manager, but that’s something we’re all just going to have to see to believe at first.After all, Bryan Price was a first-time manager who many had high hopes for, too.(/ducks)Anyway, it’s clear the Reds have through trust in Bell, as they wasted no time after hiring him in bringing in more reinforcements than any team in baseball, to date. How he handles those pieces, as well as the solid holdovers, will be greatly scrutinized, as will how often he actively incorporates advanced analytics into the way he manages. where is the future we were promised? and other bullets"So, for the first time since 1965, the Cubs faced the Red Sox in Arizona. A good time was had by all. Another game takes place this afternoon Michael Brantley Jersey , and then Opening Day is Thursday. I’m ready for the real games to begin, and will be at the ballpark in spirit.Rick Porcello just about lost his head. Talk about traveling light! Good thing his coconut isn’t hollow. Didn’t hurt his arm any, though. I wonder what the air speed of that ball was? I was half-expecting it to go over the fence.Would that be a ground-rule double or a homer? Inquiring minds wanna know.Here’s today’s Cubs News and Notes. As always * means autoplay on, or annoying ads, or both (directions to remove for Firefox and Chrome).Jesse Rogers (ESPN*): How Theo Epstein has changed from Boston to Chicago. “ ... he knows himself better. He knows how to be a leader, and he knows what he’s looking for in people around him,” said Jed Hoyer.Bruce Miles (Daily Herald {$}): Cubs: Dynamic of Cubs coaching staff has changed. “For his part, Joe Maddon seems to be embracing the latest changes.”Gordon Wittenmyer (Chicago Sun-Times* {$}): With no last-minute acquisitions anticipated, Cubs’ opening roster all but set. “It’s still possible the Cubs will add a player from a waiver claim or trade to fill an opening on the roster, but (president Theo) Epstein said the likelihood is ‘‘pretty high’’ those who will make up the final mix are already in-house.”(Chicago Tribune* {$}): ‘October really starts in March’: Epstein reinforces Cubs’ sense of urgency with latest moves. “ ... every game really counts, and we like the way it feels when we go out and show what we can do and play good baseball.”Patrick Mooney and Sahadev Sharma (The Athletic {$}): Attention will be paid: Inside the Cubs’ detail-laden plan to get their edge back. “It’s hard to define playing with “an edge” and a “sense of urgency,” but you know it when you see it.”Jordan Bastian (MLB.com*): Cubs take old-school approach with rotation. “Chicago is heading into the 2019 campaign with, arguably, the most traditional rotation in baseball.”Steve Greenberg (Chicago Tribune* {$}): Cubs 2019 preview: Why Kyle Hendricks can’t stop talking to himself. “If being boringly excellent is wrong, the Cubs don’t want Hendricks ever to be right.”Mark Gonzales (Chicago Tribune* {$}): Cubs leader Jon Lester on Ian Happ’s demotion: ‘I feel this will do him a lot of good’. “ ... right now he’s in compete mode like, ‘Hey, you just hit me in the mouth.’”Mark Gonzales (Chicago Tribune* {$}): Addison Russell’s work in Arizona is far from over as Cubs teammates wrap up spring training. “Theo Epstein has not guaranteed that Russell will return, merely re-emphasizing the steps Russell must complete to show he has become a better citizen.”Brendan Miller (Cubs Insider): More vocal Kris Bryant feels like ‘he can say things’.“I like to sit back and listen, but when I have something to say, I’m going to say it.”Rick Morrissey (Chicago Sun-Times* {$}): Here’s hoping Albert Almora Jr. grabs Cubs’ center-field job and doesn’t let go. “They’re at their best defensively when he’s in center field.”Gordon Wittenmyer (Chicago Sun-Times* {$}): Mark Zagunis on breaking camp with Cubs: ‘I get chills just thinking about it’. ‘‘I worked really hard and just hope I make the Opening Day roster,’’ he said. Mark Gonzales has more.Phil Thompson (Chicago Tribune* {$}): Wrigley Field expands food, beer options: beer-can chicken, Impossible burger, disco fries and more. As reported on the front page, and then some. Eater Chicago piles it on.Cubs birthdays: Jack McCarthy, Jimmy Lavender, Jose Vizcaino, Jason Maxwell, Jason Dubois, Rob Zastryzny.Food for thought:Thanks for reading.

to begin in the desert.For the first time in nine years http://www.indiansfanproshop.com/authentic-b.j.-upton-jersey , the Arizona Diamondbacks will open a season without Paul Goldschmidt at first base. The fan favorite and perennial MVP candidate was traded during the offseason, leaving a huge hole in Arizona’s lineup.The Diamondbacks insist they’re not in rebuilding mode, though. Not just yet.With key players still on the roster and new players who should fill at least some of the void, the Diamondbacks are hoping to again compete for a playoff spot even with one of baseball’s best players on a new team.“We have some new parts and we know that,” Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said. “And as much as it hurt to let some of these guys go elsewhere, it’s the nature of the game. What it’ll mean is that we need to be a little bit better and a little bit sharper, and we love that challenge. Players are going to have to step up and the front office and myself are going to have to get a little sharper in every area. We like that type of challenge.”Arizona traded Goldschmidt to St. Louis for catcher Carson Kelly, right-hander Luke Weaver, minor league infielder Andy Young and a 2019 draft pick. Despite Goldschmidt being one of the most popular players in franchise history, the Diamondbacks made the deal for fear of losing the six-time All-Star to free agency without getting anything in return.Goldschmidt wasn’t the only key player to leave.Outfielder A.J. Pollock signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and left-hander Patrick Corbin went to Washington. Right-hander Clay Buchholz Edwin Encarnacion Jersey , Arizona’s best pitcher that last half of the 2018 season, is now in Toronto.The Diamondbacks made a handful of moves during the offseason and in spring training to help fill some of those holes, adding infielder Wilmer Flores, outfielder Adam Jones and reliever Greg Holland — all veteran players that they hope can still be productive.A few more things to look for as the Diamondbacks enter the 2019 season:LAMB’S SWITCH: The Diamondbacks are hoping Jake Lamb can make a smooth transition across the diamond.The former third baseman is switching positions to take Goldschmidt’s place at first base. Lamb worked out with Goldschmidt during the offseason to learn the position and was even using his glove during spring training.Lamb is a powerful hitter against right-handed pitching but struggles against lefties and is coming off shoulder surgery.He hit 30 homers and had 105 RBIs his last full season in 2017.NEW FACES: The Diamondbacks signed Flores after he spent the first six seasons of his career with the New York Mets and will likely use him primarily at second base. He hit .267 with 11 homers and 51 RBIs last season while playing multiple infield positions.Jones signed a one-year, $3 million contract in early March after spending his first 13 big league seasons with Baltimore. The five-time All-Star hit .281 with 15 homers and 63 RBIs last year. He’s expected to be Arizona’s opening day centerfielder.Holland battled Archie Bradley to become Arizona’s closer through spring training, but both struggled in Cactus League games.Kelly gets his first shot at being a starting catcher after being stuck behind Yadier Molina and Weaver is looking for a bounce back season after struggling at times last season.ROOKIES TO WATCH: Arizona once had one of the weakest farm systems in baseball, but has vastly improved it the past few years. Shortstop Jazz Chisolm and pitchers Jon Duplantier and Taylor Widener are rated among the top 100 minor league players in the country, but will likely need more time in the minors before being ready for big league action.ON DECK: The Diamondbacks open on the road against the Dodgers and play their first seven games away from Chase Field before their home opener against Boston on April 5. NEW YORK (AP) — Jeurys Familia would rather be a setup man for the New York Mets than a closer for someone else.Familia had 123 saves for the Mets, who traded him to Oakland last July. He instructed agents Sam and Seth Levinson to pursue any possibility to return to the Mets.“Honestly, that was my goal http://www.indiansfanproshop.com/authentic-b.j.-upton-jersey , be back with the Mets,” Familia said during a conference call Monday, three days after his $30 million, three-year contract was finalized.New York recently acquired 2018 big league saves leader Edwin Diaz from Seattle along with All-Star second baseman Robinson Cano. Because of that, Familia will return in a different role.“I want to pitch whatever innings they want to put me in the game,” Familia said. “He’s one of the best relievers in the game, the best closer. It’s going to be fun.”New York also announced Monday that it had agreed to a minor league contract with 38-year-old outfielder Rajai Davis, who will report to major league spring training.The Mets also called a news conference for Tuesday to introduce catcher Wilson Ramos, who finalized a $19 million, two-year contract. He receives a $2 million signing bonus payable next July 1 http://www.indiansfanproshop.com/authentic-b.j.-upton-jersey , $6.25 million in 2019 and $9.25 million in 2020. The Mets have a $10 million option for 2021 with a $1.5 million buyout. Ramos would earn a $500,000 bonus in each season he has 100 starts at catcher.Familia gets a $2 million signing bonus payable on equal installments on July 1 and Dec. 10 next year. He has salaries of $6 million in 2019 and $11 million in each of the final two seasons. The Mets will defer $1 million of his 2020 salary, payable on Jan. 15, 2022. They will defer the same amount of his 2021 pay, payable on July 1, 2022.He gets a $500,000 performance bonus in any season he has 50 games finished. He would get a $1 million assignment bonus if traded.A 29-year-old right-hander, Familia said returning to New York was a preference because his wife’s family lives in the area.He was 8-6 with 18 saves in 24 chances and a 3.13 ERA for the Mets and A’s last season. He signed with the Mets at age 17 and had 43 saves in 2015 when New Yorkreached the World Series. He led the majors with a franchise-record 51 saves the following year and was an All-Star, again helping New York reach the playoffs.Familia served a 15-game suspension at the start of 2017 for violating Major League Baseball’s domestic violence policy. Later that year, he had a blood clot that required surgery and finished 2-2 with a 4.38 ERA and six saves in 26 games.Last season http://www.indiansfanproshop.com/authentic-b.j.-upton-jersey , he was 4-4 with a 2.88 ERA and 17 saves in 21 chances with the Mets.Davis hit .224 with one home run, six RBIs and 21 steals in 101 games and 216 plate appearances for Cleveland. His two-run, eighth-inning homer off Aroldis Chapman tied Game 7 of the 2016 World Series for Cleveland against the Chicago Cubs, a game the Indians lost in 10 innings.Davis has a .262 career average with 61 homers, 379 RBIs and 415 stolen bases in 13 major league seasons.

TEMPE Babe Ruth Jersey , Ariz. (AP) — Shohei Ohtani hopes to hit off a tee next week for the first time since Tommy John surgery.“That’s the thought, but I’m not trying to rush myself,” the two-way Los Angeles Angels star said through an interpreter Sunday.The AL Rookie of the Year had surgery Oct. 1 to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament, and the Angels think the earliest he could be ready to hit in games is in May. The 24-year-old hopes to start the pitching phase of his rehabilitation at the end of spring training.“So far, things are going as planned http://www.bravesfanproshop.com/authentic-nick-markakis-jersey ,” Ohtani said. “No problems at all. But maybe once I start throwing, maybe I’ll start having some issues. But as of now, everything has been going well.”Ohtani went 4-2 with a 3.31 ERA in 10 starts as a pitcher. He played 104 games overall as a rookie, hitting .285 with 22 homers and 61 RBIs.“Physically, he’s a once in a lifetime type talent Freddie Freeman Jersey ,” new Angels manager Brad Ausmus said. “Now if we can get him back to where he was at the start of last year, it’d be perfect. The fans love to watch him, we love to have him in a uniform.”What has Ausmus learned about Ohtani so far?“I can say this, he’s intense for sure,” Ausmus said. “He seems to have a good sense of humor but when it comes to baseball http://www.bravesfanproshop.com/authentic-nick-markakis-jersey , it’s almost as if he’s on a mission.”The Angels have another two-way player on their roster in Jared Walsh, who is a left-handed reliever and plays first base and the outfield. Ohtani has said hello but hasn’t talked much to Walsh.“It wasn’t one of my goals but it is a good thing if people start doing it because of me,” Ohtani said. “Right now, I just need to focus on myself.” FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) — Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora addressed the team on Friday morning about the death of longtime Boston Globe baseball writer Nick Cafardo.Cora said he told the players to enjoy themselves on the field and to celebrate Cafardo’s life.Cafardo collapsed outside the Red Sox clubhouse on Thursday and died of what his newspaper said was an apparent embolism. He was 62 and had covered the team for most of the past 30 years.The Red Sox placed a dozen roses at Cafardo’s seat in the press box on Friday morning. The Baltimore Orioles‘ beat writers and media-relations staff sent five dozen donuts Bob Uecker Jersey , along with their condolences.Cora used his mid-morning session with reporters to speak for more than seven minutes about Cafardo and chose not to discuss any other topics.He told reporters: “That’s why I don’t get caught up in the whole game. It’s just a game. When you leave, that’s real. Life is real.”

lucrative deal to join what he hopes is a playoff team with the Nationals.The 31-year-old signed a $9 million http://www.brewersfanproshop.com/authentic-orlando-arcia-jersey , one-year contract with Washington that makes him the new second baseman and potentially a bridge from Daniel Murphy to prospect Carter Kieboom. Dozier said Tuesday other clubs offered him more money and longer deals, but he and his wife opted for the opportunity to win now.“We’re not the ones to go with the highest bidder by any means or any of that kind of stuff,” Dozier said on a conference call. “With more years and dollars out there, we felt like this one-year deal with the Nats would be the best fit for us.”Dozier’s contract includes $2 million deferred without interest until Jan. 15, 2020. Next winter could bring an even bigger windfall if he’s able to get his swing back on track.Last season, Dozier battled a bone bruise in his left knee and hit a career-low .215 with 21 homers with the Minnesota Twins and Los Angeles Dodgers. He averaged 35 homers over the preceding three seasons, with a career best of 42 for Minnesota in 2016, and is a career .246 hitter.Washington could be counting on Dozier to supply some of that power in the middle of the lineup if star outfielder Bryce Harper signs elsewhere. Dozier can’t control that, but he said his struggles in 2018 serve as motivation to bounce back.“Going into this year personally you kind of have a chip on your shoulder just because you want to make sure you prove people wrong,” Dozier said. “I felt like I’ve done that throughout my career. I had to do that Christian Yelich Jersey , which is perfectly fine with me because I enjoy that.”Asked if a one-year deal was preferable for him to reset his value for another crack at free agency, Dozier said, “Resetting yourself for next year and all that kind of stuff, that all takes care of itself.”Dozier believes joining Washington puts him in the best frame of mind to take care of all that. With just 27 postseason plate appearances, he said signing on to a perennial playoff contender was a top priority, especially because the Nationals have been aggressive in adding left-handed starter Patrick Corbin, catchers Yan Gomes and Kurt Suzuki and reliever Trevor Rosenthal this offseason.“You feed off that, and it brings out the best in yourself,” Dozier said. “That’s exactly how it is and helped make my decision a lot easier.”Only needing to commit one year to Dozier made the decision easier for the Nationals. They only got 56 games out of Murphy during an injury-marred season before he signed a two-year free-agent deal with Colorado in December. Dozier at his pre-2018 form is a significant upgrade at the plate over Wilmer Difo, and he’s confident the knee injury is behind him and helped make him an even better hitter by learning how to adjust.“I was a very learning year http://www.brewersfanproshop.com/authentic-orlando-arcia-jersey ,” Dozier said. “Learn how to fight through things and it kind of made me a better player and person, and I’m up for the challenge this year.” The Los Angeles Angels have interviewed both Brad Ausmus and Eric Chavez as they look to fill their vacant managerial position.According to MLB Network's Jon Morosi, the Angels are "moving closer to a decision," but it isn't yet known who is favored to land the job.Mike Scioscia stepped down as the Angels manager at the conclusion of the 2018 regular season, marking the end of a 19-year run in that position.L.A. has finished 80-82 in consecutive seasons and hasn't reached the playoffs since 2014.The 49-year-old Ausmus, like Scioscia, is a former MLB catcher who played for the San Diego Padres, Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros and Los Angeles Dodgers. He was a one-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove award winner.Ausmus served as the Tigers manager from 2014 until his dismissal in 2017.Although Detroit went 90-72 and reached the playoffs during his first year at the helm, they went just 64-98 in 2017 http://www.brewersfanproshop.com/authentic-orlando-arcia-jersey , and he finished with a 314-332 record overall.Chavez, 40, was primarily a third baseman during an MLB career that spanned 17 seasons with the Oakland Athletics, New York Yankees and Arizona Diamondbacks. He was a six-time Golden Glove award winner and one-time Silver Slugger award winner.After retiring at the conclusion of the 2014 season, Chavez became a television analyst before serving in front-office roles for the Yankees and then the Angels.In August, Chavez became the Triple-A Salt Lake Bees manager after Keith Johnson was promoted to the Angels coaching staff.Chavez was a special assistant to Angels general manager Billy Eppler before getting his first taste of coaching with the Angels farm club.Whoever gets the nod as L.A.'s next manager will take over a talented club that is led by perennial MVP candidate Mike Trout.

today:WIN OR GO WILDIn a big league first Billy Williams Jersey , a pair of tiebreaking Game 163s will be played on the same day to sort out the NL playoff picture. First, the Cubs host the Brewers to settle the NL Central at Wrigley Field. Then the Dodgers host the Rockies to determine an NL West champ. The losers of those games will play Tuesday in the NL wild-card game.Chicago will call on left-hander Jose Quintana (13-11, 4.09), who is 6-2 with a 1.60 ERA in 10 starts against Milwaukee. The Brewers are countering with Jhoulys Chacin (15-8, 3.56). The Midwest rivals might not be done with each other after Monday, either — the winner of the wild-card game will face the NL Central champ in the NL Division Series. How about a rematch?Colorado is attempting to end Los Angeles’ five-year reign atop the division and win its first NL West crown. Walker Buehler (7-5, 2.76 ERA) gets the start for the Dodgers, and the Rockies will counter with German Marquez (14-10, 3.76 ERA), who struck out eight straight to begin his last start.TRIPLE THREAT?Brewers dynamo Christian Yelich gets a final chance to claim the NL’s first Triple Crown since 1937. Yelich was 0 for 2 Sunday to end a 10-game hitting streak, though his .323 average is certain to remain tops in the NL. He enters Game 163 with 36 homers, one back of Colorado’s Nolan Arenado for the home run lead, and his 109 RBIs are two shy of Chicago’s Javier Baez for that title. There has not been a Triple Crown winner in the NL since Joe Medwick for the St. Louis Cardinals. Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera in 2012 won the AL’s first Triple Crown since Boston’s Carl Yastrzemski in 1967.JOB OPENReds interim manager Jim Riggleman will interview to lead Cincinnati full-time in 2019, though the club may wait until the end of October to fill the position. Riggleman took over after Bryan Price was fired following a 3-15 start, and the Reds went 64-80 under him. Among the other potential candidates Jon Lester Jersey , Hall of Fame shortstop Barry Larkin has told the team he isn’t interested at this time.DECISION TIMEA few longtime stars said seeming farewells Sunday amid uncertainty about their futures, and this week might bring some clarity on whether they’ll keep playing. Joe Mauer suited up at catcher for one more pitch with Minnesota in between standing ovations, and Adrian Beltre got a nice cheer from fans in his former home of Seattle when he was pulled midgame. Jose Reyes got a similar treatment with the Mets, while Hunter Pence may also decide to hang it up after a touching goodbye in San Francisco. None of those players confirmed they’re calling it quits just yet, though. NEW YORK (AP) — Aaron Hicks and the New York Yankees reached the playoffs the same way they played the regular season: They got hurt, stood up and kept on going. Hicks doubled home the winning run in the 11th inning , just after a foul ball to an ankle sent him sprawling to the dirt face-first in pain, and the Yankees clinched an AL wild card for the second straight year with a 3-2 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday.“It hurts. It’s going to be sore tomorrow, that’s for sure,” Hicks said after limping to his locker, his left ankle taped. “I think after I hit the ball, it was kind of all adrenaline.”Rookie manager Aaron Boone will lead the Yankees into the winner-take-all Oct. 3 wild-card game, most likely against Oakland. The Yankees are 1½ games ahead of the Athletics for home-field advantage and are 53-27 at home this season.New York acquired slugger Giancarlo Stanton from Miami during the offseason, and then boosted its offense with the early season call-ups of rookies Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar. Stanton will be in the playoffs for the first time following eight frustrating seasons with the Marlins.“There’s no feeling like it,” Stanton said after the Yankees celebrated with a bubbly spraying in their clubhouse http://www.chicagocubsteamshop.com/authentic-david-ross-jersey , many wearing new “DEFEND THE BRONX” postseason T-shirts. “I’m going to enjoy tonight, enjoy this buzz and celebration, and just know we’ve got more work to do.”New York sprinted to a 54-27 record at this season’s halfway point and was ahead of Boston by percentage points in the quest for its first AL East title since 2012, but the Yankees slowed in the second half as Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez, Gregorius and Aroldis Chapman got hurt. The Red Sox clinched their third straight division crown by beating New York on Thursday.Still, at 95-59 the Yankees matched their most wins since 2012 and equaled their season high of 36 games over .500. They will make their 54th postseason appearance — 21 more than any other team — and their 20th in 24 seasons.Boone replaced Joe Girardi last fall, having never managed at any level, tasked with leading the team to its first World Series title since 2009. He walked around the clubhouse during the celebration thanking each player individually.“Everyone in that room understands that we feel just as capable as any other team that’s going to have an opportunity to do something special,” said Boone , who set off a celebration at old Yankee Stadium with his pennant-winning homer against Boston in 2003.Chad Green, Chapman, Dellin Betances, Zach Britton, Jonathan Holder and Tommy Kahnle (2-0) each pitched a scoreless inning in relief of Lance Lynn. Holder escaped a second-and-third http://www.chicagocubsteamshop.com/authentic-david-ross-jersey , no-outs, and bases-loaded, one-out jam in the 10th , helped by first baseman Luke Voit’s diving catch of a Chris Davis liner with the infield in.“I would imagine if we win big, we’ll look back and they’ll have played a huge role,” Boone said.Speaking in the afternoon, Boone called Hicks “one of the most underrated players in the game.”New York went ahead in the second inning against David Hess when Hicks hit his 26th home run and Voit hit his 11th in 32 games since he was acquired from St. Louis on July 29, a drive that hit the Toyota sign above the Yankees bullpen in right-center . Still learning about New York, Voit had trouble finding the D train on the subway to get to Yankee Stadium.“Man, this has been the craziest year in my life,” Voit said.Baltimore scored against Lynn when Cedric Mullins‘ tapper in front of the plate drove in a run in the third , and DJ Stewart singled in the tying run in the fifth . Lynn got out of bases-loaded trouble in the fifth when Adam Jones grounded into a forceout.Tampa Bay lost at Toronto as the ninth inning was about to start in the Bronx, putting the Yankees in position to clinch with a win. New York finally broke through after Gregorius singled off Paul Fry (0-2) starting the 11th.Stanton struck out, and the foul ball off Hicks’ foot caused a two-minute delay. Hicks took a ball and then lined a low, inside slider down the left-field line.Gregorius sped around the bases as left fielder John Andreoli picked up the ball by the wall Carlos Zambrano Jersey , and Gregorius slid in headfirst ahead of shortstop Jonathan Villar’s relay throw and spread his arms wide. Hicks said X-rays on the ankle were negative — but his necklace was cut in half during the celebration.Now the Yankees will try to stay ahead of the A’s and host the wild card.“You got to come to this jungle here or us fly cross-country and go spend a couple days on the West Coast?” Stanton said. “I think we’d prefer to be here.”Judge, a veteran of last October’s run, kept the day in perspective .“Enjoy it. Soak it up,” he said. “But we’ve still got four more celebrations to go.”SINKINGBaltimore dropped to 44-110, one shy of the franchise record for losses set by the 1939 St. Louis Browns. The Orioles entered 60½ games out of first place and are assured of next year’s top pick in the amateur draft.Steve Wilkerson was thrown out at the plate twice, by Torres after the second baseman retrieved Sanchez’s errant throw and by Judge on Caleb Joseph’s single to right in the fifth . Wilkerson threw out Torres trying to score from third on Andrew McCutchen’s seventh-inning grounder to third.“We’re not in the playoff hunt, but it gives you a little experience of what the atmosphere is like,” Fry said. “Everyone’s against you.”STRUGGLINGA day after the Yankees said the struggling Sanchez would be their postseason starter, he allowed his major league-leading 15th passed ball — he tied for the high last year with 16. He also made his sixth error.TRAINER’S ROOMOrioles: RHP Andrew Cashner remains bothered by pain in his left knee. … RHP Hunter Harvey is to have his sore elbow examined Monday, according to manager Buck Showalter.UP NEXTLHP J.A. Happ (6-0, 2.39 ERA with the Yankees; 16-6, 3.62 overall) starts Sunday’s home regular-season finale and is lined up to start the wild-card game. RHP Alex Cobb (5-15) starts for the Orioles.

and final playoff berth in the National League on Saturday with a victory over the San Francisco Giants or a loss by the St. Louis Cardinals against the Chicago Cubs.Although the NL postseason field is nearly set http://www.marinersfanproshop.com/authentic-edgar-martinez-jersey , the teams' respective seeding is still up in the air, with races between the Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central as well as the Dodgers and Colorado Rockies in NL West separated by just a single game apiece with two days remaining.The NL East champion Atlanta Braves are also set to play October baseball, but they are fighting for home-field advantage in the Division Series.Here's how the standings look heading into Saturday's action:1. Cubs (94-66; NL Central leaders)2. Rockies (90-70; NL West leaders)3. Braves (90-70; NL East winners)4. Brewers (93-67; No. 1 wild card)5. Dodgers (89-71; No. 2 wild card)6. Cardinals (87-73; first team out)Dodgers third baseman Justin Turner said after Friday's win they don't want to rely on other teams' results to decide their playoff fate."We want to win our way into the postseason," Turner told reporters. "We don't want to rely on someone else losing to get us in. So nother big one tomorrow."MLB's wild-card system makes these final few days crucial. The division winners advance directly to the NLDS http://www.marinersfanproshop.com/authentic-edgar-martinez-jersey , while the wild cards must face each other in a one-game elimination contest. So the Brewers could win 95 games and be ousted from championship contention because of one bad night.Along with the Dodgers vs. Giants and Cardinals vs. Cubs, the other key series this weekend include the Rockies taking on the Washington Nationals, the Braves battling the Philadelphia Phillies and the Brewers hosting the Detroit Tigers.Here's a prediction for how the NL playoffs will set up following the conclusion of the regular season and any necessary tiebreaker games:1. Cubs2. Braves3. Dodgers4. Brewers5. RockiesThat would pit the Braves against the Dodgers in the NLDS, while the Cubs would own home-field advantage throughout the NL postseason and face the winner of the wild-card game between the Brewers and Rockies as they seek their second World Series title in the past three years. A look at what’s happening around the majors today:ON THE CUSPJose Ramirez and the Cleveland Indians can clinch their third consecutive AL Central crown with a victory at home over Detroit and a Minnesota loss at last-place Kansas City. Josh Tomlin (1-5) pitches for the Indians against Matthew Boyd (9-12) and the Tigers. All-Star right-hander Jose Berrios (11-11) and the Twins face rookie Jorge Lopez (2-4) Nelson Cruz Jersey , who took a perfect game into the ninth inning last Saturday at Minnesota.STROP STOPPEDThe NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs probably won’t have their closer when they open a three-game series against Cincinnati. Pedro Strop injured a hamstring while running to first on a double-play grounder Thursday in just his second at-bat of the season. Cubs manager Joe Maddon said Strop will have an MRI on Friday. Strop has served as Chicago’s closer since Brandon Morrow was placed on the disabled list July 18. Strop has converted 11 of 13 save opportunities in that span and has a 2.26 ERA on the season.LAST GASPIt might be too late already, but Bryce Harper and the Nationals get perhaps their final chance to at least make a charge in the NL East when they begin a three-game series at first-place Atlanta. A heavy favorite before the season, Washington (74-73) sits third in the division, 8½ games behind the Braves with 15 to play. Max Scherzer (17-6 Carlos Ruiz Jersey , 2.31 ERA) starts the opener, looking to boost his bid for a fourth Cy Young Award and third straight in the National League. He leads the NL in wins and is 2-1 with a 1.67 ERA and 30 strikeouts in 27 innings this season against Atlanta.SNAKE EYESIf the plummeting Diamondbacks want to keep pace in the playoff hunt, they’ll have to do it against a first-place team. Arizona dropped two of three against NL West-leading Colorado to fall 4½ games back in the division and has lost 10 of 13 heading into a three-game series at AL West-leading Houston. The Diamondbacks also lost starter Clay Buchholz to injury during the Colorado series. They do have their pair of Zacks — Godley and Greinke — pitching Saturday and Sunday. “Time is running out,” Steven Souza Jr. said. “We are making it more difficult on ourselves http://www.marinersfanproshop.com/authentic-edgar-martinez-jersey , but it’s not impossible.”TRUE TESTNoah Syndergaard (11-3, 3.44 ERA) takes on baseball’s best team when the Mets play the Red Sox at Fenway Park. Syndergaard is 5-1 over his last seven starts. Hector Velazquez (7-2, 3.29) gets the ball for Boston, which is closing in on a third straight AL East title. The magic number for the Red Sox is six over the second-place Yankees. Boston is the only team in the majors that’s already locked up a playoff berth.