The Los Angeles Dodgers launch their bid for a World Series hat-trick as Major League Baseball's new season gets under way on Wednesday with "robot umpires" ushering in a new era for America's pastime. Nearly five months after beating the Toronto Blue Jays to clinch back-to-back World Series crowns, the Dodgers have signalled their determination to pull off a "three-peat" by strengthening an already star-studded roster. The big-spending California giants made two of the splashiest moves of the off-season by luring free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker on a lavish $240 million deal while also acquiring the talent of hard-throwing closer Edwin Diaz.Tucker and Diaz will take their places in a line-up that is already one of the most gifted – and expensive – ever assembled.Japanese superstar and reigning National League Most Valuable Player Shohei Ohtani leads a batting order that also includes former MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman.The Dodgers pitching &nbsp;is spearheaded by Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the hero of last year's World Series triumph, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow and Ohtani, who is fit to pitch from the opening of the season for the first time since joining the Dodgers in 2023.<h2>'Best team we've had'</h2>Manager Dave Roberts believes his 2026 squad could be the strongest Dodgers team he has overseen since his first season with the franchise in 2016."On paper, it could be (the best)," Roberts said. "Looking at the guys in their prime, the experience, the talent, the starters, the pen, the depth of the young players...probably the best team we've had on paper."Not everyone is as enthused as Roberts.The Dodgers' willingness to flex their financial muscles has renewed charges that the club is "ruining baseball" by exploiting MLB's absence of a salary cap.The criticism has prompted speculation that other team owners may push for salary restrictions when the next collective bargaining agreement is negotiated after the 2026 season.That in turn has prompted fear of a potential strike in 2027, with players unlikely to support any move to reduce the amount clubs pay.The Dodgers' front office has been indifferent to accusations that they are damaging a sport which has enjoyed a recent boost in popularity after years of steady decline."We don't pay much attention to that because we operate within the rules," Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said."We do everything we can to put ourselves in the best position, both short term and long term...it is about, how can we win as many games as possible and put ourselves in the best position to win a championship in 2026?"<h2>Rise of the robots</h2> Baseball's growing popularity -- last year the league recorded a third consecutive season of increased attendances and viewership -- has been attributed to recent innovations such as the introduction of a pitch clock to speed up play and the emergence of a generation of stars led by Ohtani and New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge.The innovations will continue this season with the launch of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system, more commonly known by fans as "robot umpires."Under what is arguably the biggest on-field rule change of baseball's modern era, players will have the chance to challenge an umpire's call over whether a pitch is a ball or a strike.Teams will start every game with two challenges. If a challenge is deemed successful, the team keeps the challenge -- but if a team makes two unsuccessful challenges, they are unable to question any further call in the game.Only pitchers, catchers or batters have the right to challenge a call, which they must do immediately without consulting team-mates or coaches.The system has been used during spring training since last year and initial feedback from players, coaches and fans has been broadly positive.While the bulk of opening day games will take place on Thursday, with the Dodgers hosting the Arizona Diamondbacks, the season gets under way on Wednesday with the Yankees trip to California to face the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park.

 The big-spending California giants made two of the splashiest moves of the off-season by luring free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker on a lavish $240 million deal while also acquiring the talent of hard-throwing closer Edwin Diaz.

The Los Angeles Dodgers launch their bid for a World Series hat-trick as Major League Baseball's new season gets under way on Wednesday with "robot umpires" ushering in a new era for America's pastime. Nearly five months after beating the Toronto Blue Jays to clinch back-to-back World Series crowns, the Dodgers have signalled their determination to pull off a "three-peat" by strengthening an already star-studded roster. The big-spending California giants made two of the splashiest moves of the off-season by luring free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker on a lavish $240 million deal while also acquiring the talent of hard-throwing closer Edwin Diaz. Tucker and Diaz will take their places in a line-up that is already one of the most gifted – and expensive – ever assembled. Japanese superstar and reigning National League Most Valuable Player Shohei Ohtani leads a batting order that also includes former MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. The Dodgers pitching is spearheaded by Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the hero of last year's World Series triumph, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow and Ohtani, who is fit to pitch from the opening of the season for the first time since joining the Dodgers in 2023. 'Best team we've had' Manager Dave Roberts believes his 2026 squad could be the strongest Dodgers team he has overseen since his first season with the franchise in 2016. "On paper, it could be (the best)," Roberts said. "Looking at the guys in their prime, the experience, the talent, the starters, the pen, the depth of the young players...probably the best team we've had on paper." Not everyone is as enthused as Roberts. The Dodgers' willingness to flex their financial muscles has renewed charges that the club is "ruining baseball" by exploiting MLB's absence of a salary cap. The criticism has prompted speculation that other team owners may push for salary restrictions when the next collective bargaining agreement is negotiated after the 2026 season. That in turn has prompted fear of a potential strike in 2027, with players unlikely to support any move to reduce the amount clubs pay. The Dodgers' front office has been indifferent to accusations that they are damaging a sport which has enjoyed a recent boost in popularity after years of steady decline. "We don't pay much attention to that because we operate within the rules," Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said. "We do everything we can to put ourselves in the best position, both short term and long term...it is about, how can we win as many games as possible and put ourselves in the best position to win a championship in 2026?" Rise of the robots Baseball's growing popularity -- last year the league recorded a third consecutive season of increased attendances and viewership -- has been attributed to recent innovations such as the introduction of a pitch clock to speed up play and the emergence of a generation of stars led by Ohtani and New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge. The innovations will continue this season with the launch of the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system, more commonly known by fans as "robot umpires." Under what is arguably the biggest on-field rule change of baseball's modern era, players will have the chance to challenge an umpire's call over whether a pitch is a ball or a strike. Teams will start every game with two challenges. If a challenge is deemed successful, the team keeps the challenge -- but if a team makes two unsuccessful challenges, they are unable to question any further call in the game. Only pitchers, catchers or batters have the right to challenge a call, which they must do immediately without consulting team-mates or coaches. The system has been used during spring training since last year and initial feedback from players, coaches and fans has been broadly positive. While the bulk of opening day games will take place on Thursday, with the Dodgers hosting the Arizona Diamondbacks, the season gets under way on Wednesday with the Yankees trip to California to face the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park.

&nbsp;The big-spending California giants made two of the splashiest moves of the off-season by luring free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker on a lavish $240 million deal while also acquiring the talent of hard-throwing closer Edwin Diaz.

Los Angeles Dodgers eye threepeat as robot umpires make way in MLB

The New York Yankees had a renowned K-pop sensation in attendance for its recent game against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium on June 20, and he happened to be a big fan of starting pitcher Max Fried. Seungmin, the global superstar, attended the Yankees game while being on his New York tour, later posting photos on his social media handle Instagram with the caption, "Playball⚾ @yankees". Meanwhile, Seungmin also wore a Max Fried jersey and even had pictures of Fried and Aaron Judge from the game. The Stray Kids star also posted a photo of Judge’s stats this season, indicating he’s a fan of the slugger as well.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Seungmin in the baseball stadium! The Stray Kids star was at Yankee Stadium last night ⚾️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrayKids?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrayKids</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%EC%8A%A4%ED%8A%B8%EB%A0%88%EC%9D%B4%ED%82%A4%EC%A6%88?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#스트레이키즈</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Seungmin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Seungmin</a> <a href="https://t.co/cbPAlXaQjJ">pic.twitter.com/cbPAlXaQjJ</a>&mdash; MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1936471003397247132?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Alongside seven other members of Stray Kids, Seungmin spent last Wednesday and Thursday roaming across the city and playing two sold-out shows at Citi Field on the North American leg of their dominATE World Tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-alexander-bublik-beats-daniil-medvedev-to-claim-second-title-on-grass-in-halle-1750610236055">Alexander Bublik beats Daniil Medvedev to claim second title on grass in Halle</a> &nbsp;Besides, Seungmin, the K-pop idol, is also known for his love for baseball, to the extent that he even dreamt of playing it professionally while growing up. However, if not for his family’s financial situation and his set of injuries, he would have lived that dream, but life had other plans for him. Seungmin, instead, chased his other dream of singing, something that panned out better for him. &nbsp;Even though he is now a megastar, he loves falling back on baseball. Even during the Los Angeles Dodgers game against Team Korea in the 2024 MLB Seoul Series, he threw out his first pitch, impressing most people, with fans drawing parallels with Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, "Dude throwing better than Yamamoto in spring training,” one fan wrote on social media.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Seungmin&#39;s first pitch was a STRIKE!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrayKids?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrayKids</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%EC%8A%A4%ED%8A%B8%EB%A0%88%EC%9D%B4%ED%82%A4%EC%A6%88?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#스트레이키즈</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Seungmin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Seungmin</a> <a href="https://t.co/hnl81QYuUs">pic.twitter.com/hnl81QYuUs</a>&mdash; MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1769677355511943534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the K-pop star has collected several jerseys throughout his career, from a Kim Hye-Seong Dodgers jersey to a Jung-Hoo Lee San Francisco Giants one to a Seattle Mariners jacket. He even has photos of them posted.

MLB: Global K-pop sensation headlines Yankees game against Baltimore Orioles

The New York Yankees had a renowned K-pop sensation in attendance for its recent game against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium on June 20, and he happened to be a big fan of starting pitcher Max Fried. Seungmin, the global superstar, attended the Yankees game while being on his New York tour, later posting photos on his social media handle Instagram with the caption, "Playball⚾ @yankees". Meanwhile, Seungmin also wore a Max Fried jersey and even had pictures of Fried and Aaron Judge from the game. The Stray Kids star also posted a photo of Judge’s stats this season, indicating he’s a fan of the slugger as well.

Alongside seven other members of Stray Kids, Seungmin spent last Wednesday and Thursday roaming across the city and playing two sold-out shows at Citi Field on the North American leg of their dominATE World Tour.&nbsp;

Yankees vs Brewers MLB Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers will raise the curtains for Major League Baseball (MLB 2025) season as the two meet at the Yankee Stadium in New York. Eyeing a perfect start, both Yankees and Brewers will be determined to make the perfect start on Thursday (Mar 27) in the first head-to-head meeting of the season. Ahead of the clash between the Yankees and Brewers, here are all the details, including live streaming and others.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live Broadcast TV Channel in India?</h2>
The Yankees vs Brewers MLB contest will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live on App in India?</h2>
The Yankees vs Brewers MLB contest will be live-streamed on the FanCode App and website on paid subscription in India.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live Broadcast TV Channel in USA?</h2>
The Yankees vs Brewers MLB contest will be on air across ESPN, FOX, Apple TV+ (for exclusive streaming games).
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live on App in USA?</h2>
An MLB.TV subscription is a great way to catch all your favorite teams' out-of-market games live. You can subscribe to just get access to your team's games starting at $20/month (although that isn't an option for every team), or upgrade to get games from all the teams (that aren't blacked out) starting at $30/month or $150 for the year.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Yankees vs Brewers Free LIVE Streaming Options:</h2>
Currently no free live streaming is available for Yankees vs Brewers MLB match in India.&nbsp;
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Yankees vs Brewers Free LIVE Streaming Options:</h2>
Currently no free live streaming is available for Yankees vs Brewers MLB match in USA.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">[Updated] IPL 2025 Points Table: Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Yankees vs Brewers MLB Game Today Date and Time:</h2>
<h3 data-start="890" data-end="910">Game Details</h3>
<ul data-start="912" data-end="1031">
<li data-start="912" data-end="940">Date: Thursday, March 27</li>
<li data-start="941" data-end="985">Time: 2:45 PM ET (12:35 AM IST)</li>
<li data-start="986" data-end="1031">Venue: Yankee Stadium in New York</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Yankees vs Brewers prediction</h2>
Brewers 5, Yankees 4
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Yankees vs. Brewers Head to Head</h2>
Total Matches: 59
Yankees Win: 37
Brewers Win: 22
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Yankees Player Insights</h2>
Last season, Aaron Judge had a .322 batting average with 58 home runs and 144 RBI. Cody Bellinger collected 137 hits, posted an OBP of .325, and a .426 SLG.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Brewers Player Insights</h2>
William Contreras had a batting average of .281 with 92 runs batted in last season. Jackson Chourio had 29 doubles, four triples, 21 home runs and 39 walks while batting .275.

Sports: Eyeing a perfect start, both Yankees and Brewers will be determined to make the perfect start in the first head-to-head meeting of the season.

Yankees vs Brewers MLB Live Streaming, Date-Time, Venue: New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers will raise the curtains for Major League Baseball (MLB 2025) season as the two meet at the Yankee Stadium in New York. Eyeing a perfect start, both Yankees and Brewers will be determined to make the perfect start on Thursday (Mar 27) in the first head-to-head meeting of the season. Ahead of the clash between the Yankees and Brewers, here are all the details, including live streaming and others. How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live Broadcast TV Channel in India? The Yankees vs Brewers MLB contest will be telecast on Star Sports Network in India. How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live on App in India? The Yankees vs Brewers MLB contest will be live-streamed on the FanCode App and website on paid subscription in India. How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live Broadcast TV Channel in USA? The Yankees vs Brewers MLB contest will be on air across ESPN, FOX, Apple TV+ (for exclusive streaming games). How to Watch Yankees vs Brewers Live on App in USA? An MLB.TV subscription is a great way to catch all your favorite teams' out-of-market games live. You can subscribe to just get access to your team's games starting at $20/month (although that isn't an option for every team), or upgrade to get games from all the teams (that aren't blacked out) starting at $30/month or $150 for the year. Yankees vs Brewers Free LIVE Streaming Options: Currently no free live streaming is available for Yankees vs Brewers MLB match in India. Yankees vs Brewers Free LIVE Streaming Options: Currently no free live streaming is available for Yankees vs Brewers MLB match in USA. ALSO READ | [Updated] IPL 2025 Points Table: Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details Yankees vs Brewers MLB Game Today Date and Time: Game Details Date: Thursday, March 27 Time: 2:45 PM ET (12:35 AM IST) Venue: Yankee Stadium in New York Yankees vs Brewers prediction Brewers 5, Yankees 4 Yankees vs. Brewers Head to Head Total Matches: 59 Yankees Win: 37 Brewers Win: 22 Yankees Player Insights Last season, Aaron Judge had a .322 batting average with 58 home runs and 144 RBI. Cody Bellinger collected 137 hits, posted an OBP of .325, and a .426 SLG. Brewers Player Insights William Contreras had a batting average of .281 with 92 runs batted in last season. Jackson Chourio had 29 doubles, four triples, 21 home runs and 39 walks while batting .275.

Where to Watch New York Yankees vs Milwaukee Brewers: Live Streaming, TV Channels & Game Info

Dominican slugger Juan Soto's 15-year Major League Baseball deal worth a record $765 million has turned the New York Mets from a punchline to a club with punching power.

Soto's reported deal, the largest in North American professional sports history, has yet to be confirmed, reportedly because a final physical has not been taken.

But the free agent move by Soto, who played for the New York Yankees last season, has already excited Mets fans and soured supporters of their Bronx-based rivals.

A joke on the US television show Saturday Night Live had Soto considering the Mets only as a charity move to help the needy, but less than 24 hours later, Soto had signed a rich deal and the Mets were seen as championship contenders.

A bidding war for Soto came down to the Yankees, who reached the World Series for the first time since 2009 with Soto in the lineup, and Mets, who won their first playoff series since 2015 but lost to the eventual champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series.

In the end, Mets owners Steve and Alexandra Cohen outspent Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner and 26-year-old outfielder Soto will shift from Yankee Stadium to Citi Field and the American League to the National League.

The NL won't be unfamiliar territory for Soto, who won a World Series crown in 2019 with the NL Washington Nationals, who traded him in 2022 to the NL San Diego Padres, who traded Soto to the Yankees in December 2023.

Mike Piazza, a former Mets catcher, welcomed Soto to his new club on social media.

"Wishing Juan Soto all the best playing for the Most Amazing fans!" Piazza posted on social media. "I'm sure his time in NYC will help him. Great Early Christmas present from @StevenACohen2 and Alex, Looking forward to an exciting season."

NBA Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, a long-time Mets fan whose father works for the club, posted a photo on social media of Soto smiling and making a peace sign shortly after reports of the deal became public.

Soto's deal would eclipse the $700 million record MLB contract for 10 years that the Los Angeles Dodgers signed with Japanese star Shohei Ohtani last December.

The Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays and Boston Red Sox were other clubs that had reportedly been in the bidding for the Dominican star.

Soto batted .288 last season for the Yankees with 41 home runs, 109 runs batted in and 129 walks.

<h2>Mets visit Yanks in May</h2>

Soto's first chance to play against the Yankees will come when the Mets visit Yankee stadium on May 16 to open a three-game series.

The Yankees visit the Mets on July 4-6, where fireworks are assured with the opener on the US Independence Day holiday.

Soto would become the first player to compete in the MLB All-Star Game four consecutive years for four different clubs if he makes it there with the Mets in 2025.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-doesnt-deserve-kapil-dev-on-jasprit-bumrah-replacing-rohit-sharma-as-india-test-skipper-782768">BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper</a>

Soto joins a Mets club that fell two wins shy of reaching the World Series for the first time since 2015. The new goal will be winning a World Series, something the Mets have not accomplished since 1986.

For the Yankees, who had made keeping Soto a top off-season priority, the focus shifted to other free agent possibilities, including first baseman Pete Alonso or outfielders Teoscar Hernandez and Anthony Santander.

The Yankees return star outfielder Aaron Judge, a unanimous choice for American League Most Valuable Player who led the AL in runs batted in and homers.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Dominican slugger Juan Soto's 15-year Major League Baseball deal worth a record $765 million has turned the New York Mets from a punchline to a club with punching power.

Dominican slugger Juan Soto's 15-year Major League Baseball deal worth a record $765 million has turned the New York Mets from a punchline to a club with punching power. Soto's reported deal, the largest in North American professional sports history, has yet to be confirmed, reportedly because a final physical has not been taken. But the free agent move by Soto, who played for the New York Yankees last season, has already excited Mets fans and soured supporters of their Bronx-based rivals. A joke on the US television show Saturday Night Live had Soto considering the Mets only as a charity move to help the needy, but less than 24 hours later, Soto had signed a rich deal and the Mets were seen as championship contenders. A bidding war for Soto came down to the Yankees, who reached the World Series for the first time since 2009 with Soto in the lineup, and Mets, who won their first playoff series since 2015 but lost to the eventual champion Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series. In the end, Mets owners Steve and Alexandra Cohen outspent Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner and 26-year-old outfielder Soto will shift from Yankee Stadium to Citi Field and the American League to the National League. The NL won't be unfamiliar territory for Soto, who won a World Series crown in 2019 with the NL Washington Nationals, who traded him in 2022 to the NL San Diego Padres, who traded Soto to the Yankees in December 2023. Mike Piazza, a former Mets catcher, welcomed Soto to his new club on social media. "Wishing Juan Soto all the best playing for the Most Amazing fans!" Piazza posted on social media. "I'm sure his time in NYC will help him. Great Early Christmas present from @StevenACohen2 and Alex, Looking forward to an exciting season." NBA Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell, a long-time Mets fan whose father works for the club, posted a photo on social media of Soto smiling and making a peace sign shortly after reports of the deal became public. Soto's deal would eclipse the $700 million record MLB contract for 10 years that the Los Angeles Dodgers signed with Japanese star Shohei Ohtani last December. The Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays and Boston Red Sox were other clubs that had reportedly been in the bidding for the Dominican star. Soto batted .288 last season for the Yankees with 41 home runs, 109 runs batted in and 129 walks. Mets visit Yanks in May Soto's first chance to play against the Yankees will come when the Mets visit Yankee stadium on May 16 to open a three-game series. The Yankees visit the Mets on July 4-6, where fireworks are assured with the opener on the US Independence Day holiday. Soto would become the first player to compete in the MLB All-Star Game four consecutive years for four different clubs if he makes it there with the Mets in 2025. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper Soto joins a Mets club that fell two wins shy of reaching the World Series for the first time since 2015. The new goal will be winning a World Series, something the Mets have not accomplished since 1986. For the Yankees, who had made keeping Soto a top off-season priority, the focus shifted to other free agent possibilities, including first baseman Pete Alonso or outfielders Teoscar Hernandez and Anthony Santander. The Yankees return star outfielder Aaron Judge, a unanimous choice for American League Most Valuable Player who led the AL in runs batted in and homers. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Major League Baseball: Juan Soto's record $765 million deal set to lift New York Mets

Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani blasted the first postseason home run of his career to help the Los Angeles Dodgers claim a 7-5 victory over the San Diego Padres in a thrilling Major League Baseball playoff duel on Saturday.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
WELCOME TO THE POSTSEASON, SHOHEI OHTANI. <a href="https://t.co/ouDvzwwj6O">pic.twitter.com/ouDvzwwj6O</a>
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dodgers/status/1842738334642352393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Ohtani crushed a 372-foot three-run rocket into right field off Padres starter Dylan Cease in the second inning to help the Dodgers tie it up at 3-3.

They had fallen 3-0 behind following a first-inning onslaught from the Padres' powerful batting line-up.

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"The stadium was electric and I was just really able to enjoy the game today," said Ohtani, who is widely regarded as the best player in baseball. "He's a good pitcher and it's not easy to get him, but I really wanted to make sure that I could hit one," added Ohtani, who had never played a postseason game before Saturday.

With Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto struggling on the mound, the Padres regained the lead after Xander Bogaerts' two-run double in the third inning made it 5-3.

But Ohtani once again helped spark a Dodgers revival in the fourth inning.

Ohtani's single loaded the bases and set up a scoring run for Tommy Edman to cut the deficit to 5-4 before Teoscar Hernandez drove in two runs with a single to right field to make it 6-5.

Dodgers catcher Will Smith scampered in for a run to make it 7-5 in the fifth inning.

There was a nervous finale in the ninth inning as the Padres got two men on base. &nbsp;But closer Blake Treinen struck out Manny Machado to clinch a win which gives the Dodgers a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five National League Division Series.

Game two takes place in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Dodgers slugger Hernandez paid tribute to the inspirational Ohtani after the win.

"Shohei is Shohei -- I don't think there's anybody playing like him right now," Ohtani said. "I'm just glad he's on our team."

<h2>Yankees, Mets win</h2>

In other playoff action on Saturday, there were wins for the New York Mets and New York Yankees while the Cleveland Guardians also opened their postseason with a victory.

The Mets, who pulled off a ninth inning comeback to stun the Milwaukee Brewers in the Wild Card round, once again conjured a late rally for a 6-2 win over the Phillies in their National League Division Series duel in Philadelphia.

The Phillies looked to be on their way to victory after Kyle Schwarber blasted a leadoff homer to give the home side an early 1-0 lead.

Phillies ace Zack Wheeler then blanked the Mets batters through seven innings, giving up just one hit with four walks and nine strikeouts.

But the Mets jumped on the Phillies relievers with a five-run eighth inning, opening up a 5-1 lead before going on to clinch a win that left Citizen Bank Park in shellshocked silence.

"We know we're good, and we've got good players. And we are executing," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said.

In the American League meanwhile, the Yankees held their nerve in a see-saw battle with the Kansas City Royals to grab a 6-5 victory and a 1-0 lead in their best-of-five series.

Alex Verdugo was the hero for the Bronx Bombers, driving in a decisive single to score Jazz Chisholm in the bottom of the seventh inning for what turned out to be the winning run in a game that saw no fewer than six lead changes.

In Cleveland, Lane Thomas crushed a three-run home run off Detroit reliever Reese Olson as the Guardians put up five runs without an out in the first inning on the way to a 7-0 victory over the Tigers in their American League divisional series.

"It was awesome," Thomas said. "It started with the guys in front of me, so I think it wouldn't have been possible without those guys."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani blasted the first postseason home run of his career to help the Los Angeles Dodgers claim a 7-5 victory over the San Diego Padres in a thrilling Major League Baseball playoff duel on Saturday.

Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani blasted the first postseason home run of his career to help the Los Angeles Dodgers claim a 7-5 victory over the San Diego Padres in a thrilling Major League Baseball playoff duel on Saturday. WELCOME TO THE POSTSEASON, SHOHEI OHTANI. pic.twitter.com/ouDvzwwj6O — Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 6, 2024 × Ohtani crushed a 372-foot three-run rocket into right field off Padres starter Dylan Cease in the second inning to help the Dodgers tie it up at 3-3. They had fallen 3-0 behind following a first-inning onslaught from the Padres' powerful batting line-up. ALSO READ: Premier League: Alisson Becker injured and out for ‘few weeks’ in Liverpool’s win at Palace "The stadium was electric and I was just really able to enjoy the game today," said Ohtani, who is widely regarded as the best player in baseball. "He's a good pitcher and it's not easy to get him, but I really wanted to make sure that I could hit one," added Ohtani, who had never played a postseason game before Saturday. With Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto struggling on the mound, the Padres regained the lead after Xander Bogaerts' two-run double in the third inning made it 5-3. But Ohtani once again helped spark a Dodgers revival in the fourth inning. Ohtani's single loaded the bases and set up a scoring run for Tommy Edman to cut the deficit to 5-4 before Teoscar Hernandez drove in two runs with a single to right field to make it 6-5. Dodgers catcher Will Smith scampered in for a run to make it 7-5 in the fifth inning. There was a nervous finale in the ninth inning as the Padres got two men on base. But closer Blake Treinen struck out Manny Machado to clinch a win which gives the Dodgers a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five National League Division Series. Game two takes place in Los Angeles on Sunday. Dodgers slugger Hernandez paid tribute to the inspirational Ohtani after the win. "Shohei is Shohei -- I don't think there's anybody playing like him right now," Ohtani said. "I'm just glad he's on our team." Yankees, Mets win In other playoff action on Saturday, there were wins for the New York Mets and New York Yankees while the Cleveland Guardians also opened their postseason with a victory. The Mets, who pulled off a ninth inning comeback to stun the Milwaukee Brewers in the Wild Card round, once again conjured a late rally for a 6-2 win over the Phillies in their National League Division Series duel in Philadelphia. The Phillies looked to be on their way to victory after Kyle Schwarber blasted a leadoff homer to give the home side an early 1-0 lead. Phillies ace Zack Wheeler then blanked the Mets batters through seven innings, giving up just one hit with four walks and nine strikeouts. But the Mets jumped on the Phillies relievers with a five-run eighth inning, opening up a 5-1 lead before going on to clinch a win that left Citizen Bank Park in shellshocked silence. "We know we're good, and we've got good players. And we are executing," Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. In the American League meanwhile, the Yankees held their nerve in a see-saw battle with the Kansas City Royals to grab a 6-5 victory and a 1-0 lead in their best-of-five series. Alex Verdugo was the hero for the Bronx Bombers, driving in a decisive single to score Jazz Chisholm in the bottom of the seventh inning for what turned out to be the winning run in a game that saw no fewer than six lead changes. In Cleveland, Lane Thomas crushed a three-run home run off Detroit reliever Reese Olson as the Guardians put up five runs without an out in the first inning on the way to a 7-0 victory over the Tigers in their American League divisional series. "It was awesome," Thomas said. "It started with the guys in front of me, so I think it wouldn't have been possible without those guys." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

MLB Playoffs: Shohei Ohtani wins thriller for Los Angeles Dodgers with first postseason home run

Pete Rose, Major League Baseball's all-time hit king who left the sport in disgrace after being banned for betting on games, died Monday aged 83, multiple US media outlets reported.

Nicknamed "Charlie Hustle" for his hard-charging effort and dogged determination, the long-time hometown hero for the Cincinnati Reds passed away in Las Vegas, reports said.

Rose set MLB career records with 4,256 hits, 15,890 appearances at the plate, 3,562 games played and 3,215 singles.

His most celebrated feat came on September 11, 1985 when he singled to left field off San Diego pitcher Eric Snow in Cincinnati for his 4,192nd career hit, breaking the prior all-time MLB hit mark held by Ty Cobb, who played from 1905 to 1928.

Over his 24-season career, Rose captured three World Series titles, in 1975 and 1976 with the Reds and in 1980 with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Rose was a 17-time All-Star over his career at a record five different positions -- left and right fielder plus first, second and third baseman.

He won the season batting titles in 1968, 1969 and 1973, when he also claimed the National League Most Valuable Player award. Ten years earlier, Rose had been named the NL Rookie of the Year.

After a brief stint with the Montreal Expos in 1984, Rose was traded back to the Reds and made player-manager, a dual role he kept through the 1986 campaign before retiring as a player and guiding the club for three final seasons until 1989, when details of his gambling on MLB games emerged.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-batter-virat-kohli-becomes-first-batter-to-reach-this-milestone-in-test-history-763284">India batter Virat Kohli becomes first player to reach THIS milestone in Test history</a>

Rose denied the allegations. But only three days after Bart Giamatti took over as MLB commissioner in April 1989, the new boss named attorney John Dowd to investigate the matter.&nbsp;

The following month, Dowd documented betting activity by Rose in 1985 and 1986 and produced a day-by-day gambling account for 1987 that included Rose betting on 52 Reds games in which he served as the team's manager.

On August 24, 1989, Rose was placed on MLB's permanently ineligible list and Giamatti announced his ban. Eight days later, Giamatti died of a heart attack.

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Pete Rose, Major League Baseball's all-time hit king who left the sport in disgrace after being banned for betting on games, died Monday aged 83, multiple US media outlets reported.

Pete Rose, Major League Baseball's all-time hit king who left the sport in disgrace after being banned for betting on games, died Monday aged 83, multiple US media outlets reported. Nicknamed "Charlie Hustle" for his hard-charging effort and dogged determination, the long-time hometown hero for the Cincinnati Reds passed away in Las Vegas, reports said. Rose set MLB career records with 4,256 hits, 15,890 appearances at the plate, 3,562 games played and 3,215 singles. His most celebrated feat came on September 11, 1985 when he singled to left field off San Diego pitcher Eric Snow in Cincinnati for his 4,192nd career hit, breaking the prior all-time MLB hit mark held by Ty Cobb, who played from 1905 to 1928. Over his 24-season career, Rose captured three World Series titles, in 1975 and 1976 with the Reds and in 1980 with the Philadelphia Phillies. Rose was a 17-time All-Star over his career at a record five different positions -- left and right fielder plus first, second and third baseman. He won the season batting titles in 1968, 1969 and 1973, when he also claimed the National League Most Valuable Player award. Ten years earlier, Rose had been named the NL Rookie of the Year. After a brief stint with the Montreal Expos in 1984, Rose was traded back to the Reds and made player-manager, a dual role he kept through the 1986 campaign before retiring as a player and guiding the club for three final seasons until 1989, when details of his gambling on MLB games emerged. ALSO READ | India batter Virat Kohli becomes first player to reach THIS milestone in Test history Rose denied the allegations. But only three days after Bart Giamatti took over as MLB commissioner in April 1989, the new boss named attorney John Dowd to investigate the matter. The following month, Dowd documented betting activity by Rose in 1985 and 1986 and produced a day-by-day gambling account for 1987 that included Rose betting on 52 Reds games in which he served as the team's manager. On August 24, 1989, Rose was placed on MLB's permanently ineligible list and Giamatti announced his ban. Eight days later, Giamatti died of a heart attack. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Baseball great Pete Rose passes away at 83; held multiple MLB all-time records

The Chicago White Sox broke the Major League Baseball modern-era record for the most losses in one season on Friday, falling 4-1 to the Detroit Tigers for their 121st defeat of 2024.

The Tigers, who clinched their first playoff berth in a decade with the victory, grabbed the upper hand with two runs in the fifth inning.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-japan-open-britains-jack-draper-ousts-second-seed-hubert-hurkacz-762431">Japan Open: Britain's Jack Draper ousts second seed Hubert Hurkacz</a>

Chicago's Zach DeLoach cut the deficit with a homer in the sixth, but Detroit added a pair of runs in the seventh and the White Sox were on the way to a dubious place in MLB history.

The White Sox had tied the 1962 New York Mets with their 120th loss of the season on Sunday.

Then they stunningly won three straight games against the Los Angeles Angels, twice rallying to avoid being saddled with the outright record for a few more days.

They have two more games against the Tigers in Detroit before they can draw the curtain on the worst season in MLB's modern era.

It's no consolation that the 1899 Cleveland Spiders went 20-134.

"It's not the year we wanted," said Grady Sizemore, who took over as interim manager when the White Sox fired Pedro Grifol in August.

"It's not the numbers that we want. But that doesn't mean it's a total loss. We can build from this. We can learn from this and get better.

"We'll be stronger because of it," he vowed.

White Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet threw four scoreless innings, striking out six and issuing one walk.

"No real emotions," Crochet said. "Obviously, it sucks. We put ourselves in this position early on. We are where we are because of the way we played, which sucks. But that's just all it is."

The Tigers scored two runs in the fifth off Chicago reliever Jared Schuster, who walked Jake Rogers, gave up a single to Parker Meadows then walked Andy Ibanez to load the bases.

Rogers scored on a wild pitch and Meadows scored on a sacrifice fly from Matt Vierling and the White Sox were on the ropes.

The White Sox's historically bad season includes plenty of low points. They set a franchise record with a 14-game losing streak that ended on June 7, then broke the mark with a 21-game skid that tied the 1988 Baltimore Orioles for the longest in American League history.

Ironically, fans had flocked to Chicago's Guaranteed Rate Field to see the White Sox claim the record earlier this week, only for them to notch two comeback wins over the Angels before closing their three-game set with a rout on Thursday.

At Comerica Park in Detroit, the long anticipated moment of ignominy was swamped by jubilant celebrations of Tigers players and fans as the club completed their late-season turnaround by booking a first trip to the post-season since 2014.

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The Chicago White Sox broke the Major League Baseball modern-era record for the most losses in one season on Friday, falling 4-1 to the Detroit Tigers for their 121st defeat of 2024.

The Chicago White Sox broke the Major League Baseball modern-era record for the most losses in one season on Friday, falling 4-1 to the Detroit Tigers for their 121st defeat of 2024. The Tigers, who clinched their first playoff berth in a decade with the victory, grabbed the upper hand with two runs in the fifth inning. Also Read: Japan Open: Britain's Jack Draper ousts second seed Hubert Hurkacz Chicago's Zach DeLoach cut the deficit with a homer in the sixth, but Detroit added a pair of runs in the seventh and the White Sox were on the way to a dubious place in MLB history. The White Sox had tied the 1962 New York Mets with their 120th loss of the season on Sunday. Then they stunningly won three straight games against the Los Angeles Angels, twice rallying to avoid being saddled with the outright record for a few more days. They have two more games against the Tigers in Detroit before they can draw the curtain on the worst season in MLB's modern era. It's no consolation that the 1899 Cleveland Spiders went 20-134. "It's not the year we wanted," said Grady Sizemore, who took over as interim manager when the White Sox fired Pedro Grifol in August. "It's not the numbers that we want. But that doesn't mean it's a total loss. We can build from this. We can learn from this and get better. "We'll be stronger because of it," he vowed. White Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet threw four scoreless innings, striking out six and issuing one walk. "No real emotions," Crochet said. "Obviously, it sucks. We put ourselves in this position early on. We are where we are because of the way we played, which sucks. But that's just all it is." The Tigers scored two runs in the fifth off Chicago reliever Jared Schuster, who walked Jake Rogers, gave up a single to Parker Meadows then walked Andy Ibanez to load the bases. Rogers scored on a wild pitch and Meadows scored on a sacrifice fly from Matt Vierling and the White Sox were on the ropes. The White Sox's historically bad season includes plenty of low points. They set a franchise record with a 14-game losing streak that ended on June 7, then broke the mark with a 21-game skid that tied the 1988 Baltimore Orioles for the longest in American League history. Ironically, fans had flocked to Chicago's Guaranteed Rate Field to see the White Sox claim the record earlier this week, only for them to notch two comeback wins over the Angels before closing their three-game set with a rout on Thursday. At Comerica Park in Detroit, the long anticipated moment of ignominy was swamped by jubilant celebrations of Tigers players and fans as the club completed their late-season turnaround by booking a first trip to the post-season since 2014. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Major League Baseball: Chicago White Sox break record for most losses in season

Willie Mays, the Hall of Fame centerfielder whose all-around skills made him one of greatest baseball players of all time, died on Tuesday at the age of 93, Major League Baseball announced.

Mays, who brought an explosive exuberance to the game in his peak years, died of heart failure, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

Mays played 23 seasons for the New York Giants, San Francisco Giants and New York Mets, from 1951 through 1973.

In his prime, he could do it all on the baseball field. Mays was the epitome of what came to be known as a "five-tool player" - meaning he was exceptional at hitting for average, hitting for power, fielding, throwing and baserunning.

But Mays' talent was only part of what made him a superstar. He also played with a verve and passion that were discernible even to spectators in the cheap seats. He was known for playing stickball with kids on the streets of Harlem, near the former Polo Grounds where he played.

In the real games, fans delighted when Mays would sprint with such speed and fury that he would run out from under his hat as he stole a base or chased down a flyball to deep centerfield.

His snag of a fly ball in the 1954 World Series, sprinting with his back toward home plate some 460 feet away, is known simply as The Catch.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-arda-gulers-wonder-goal-helps-turkiye-sink-georgia-in-group-f-thriller-732972">Euro 2024: Arda Güler's wonder goal helps Türkiye sink Georgia in Group F thriller</a>

"He could do everything and do it better than anyone else, (and) with a joyous grace," wrote New York Times sports columnist Arthur Daley.

Mays, known as "The Say Hey Kid" because of his standard greeting, was ranked second on The Sporting News' 1998 list of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players - behind Babe Ruth and ahead of Ty Cobb.

Baseball-Reference.com ranks him fifth all time using the modern statistic Wins Above Replacement, which measures a player's overall value, behind Ruth, pitchers Walter Johnson and Cy Young, and his godson Barry Bonds.

Willie Mays, the Hall of Fame centerfielder whose all-around skills made him one of greatest baseball players of all time, died on Tuesday at the age of 93, Major League Baseball announced.

Willie Mays, the Hall of Fame centerfielder whose all-around skills made him one of greatest baseball players of all time, died on Tuesday at the age of 93, Major League Baseball announced. Mays, who brought an explosive exuberance to the game in his peak years, died of heart failure, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Mays played 23 seasons for the New York Giants, San Francisco Giants and New York Mets, from 1951 through 1973. In his prime, he could do it all on the baseball field. Mays was the epitome of what came to be known as a "five-tool player" - meaning he was exceptional at hitting for average, hitting for power, fielding, throwing and baserunning. But Mays' talent was only part of what made him a superstar. He also played with a verve and passion that were discernible even to spectators in the cheap seats. He was known for playing stickball with kids on the streets of Harlem, near the former Polo Grounds where he played. In the real games, fans delighted when Mays would sprint with such speed and fury that he would run out from under his hat as he stole a base or chased down a flyball to deep centerfield. His snag of a fly ball in the 1954 World Series, sprinting with his back toward home plate some 460 feet away, is known simply as The Catch. ALSO READ | Euro 2024: Arda Güler's wonder goal helps Türkiye sink Georgia in Group F thriller "He could do everything and do it better than anyone else, (and) with a joyous grace," wrote New York Times sports columnist Arthur Daley. Mays, known as "The Say Hey Kid" because of his standard greeting, was ranked second on The Sporting News' 1998 list of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players - behind Babe Ruth and ahead of Ty Cobb. Baseball-Reference.com ranks him fifth all time using the modern statistic Wins Above Replacement, which measures a player's overall value, behind Ruth, pitchers Walter Johnson and Cy Young, and his godson Barry Bonds.

Baseball legend Willie Mays, all-around great of America's pastime, dead at 93

Major League Baseball on Friday (March 22) said it had begun a formal investigation into a situation surrounding Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his long-time interpreter Ippei Mizuhara following allegations of "massive theft."

Mizuhara was fired by the team on Wednesday after Ohtani's lawyers said he had engaged in "massive theft."

U.S. media reported that Mizuhara allegedly used Ohtani's money to pay off gambling debts to a Southern California bookmaker, who is under federal investigation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andrew-flintoff-is-a-leader-like-stokes-hed-be-an-excellent-head-coach-one-day-says-ecbs-robert-key-703214">'Andrew Flintoff is a leader like Stokes, he’d be an excellent head coach one day,' says ECB’s Robert Key</a>

Two-time AL MVP Ohtani inked a record 10-year, $700 million contract with the team in the offseason.

The allegations surfaced during the Seoul Series, the first scheduled MLB games in South Korea&nbsp;between the Dodgers and the San Diego Padres.

Major League Baseball on Friday (March 22) said it had begun a formal investigation into a situation surrounding Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his long-time interpreter Ippei Mizuhara following allegations of "massive theft.

Major League Baseball on Friday (March 22) said it had begun a formal investigation into a situation surrounding Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his long-time interpreter Ippei Mizuhara following allegations of "massive theft." Mizuhara was fired by the team on Wednesday after Ohtani's lawyers said he had engaged in "massive theft." U.S. media reported that Mizuhara allegedly used Ohtani's money to pay off gambling debts to a Southern California bookmaker, who is under federal investigation. ALSO READ | 'Andrew Flintoff is a leader like Stokes, he’d be an excellent head coach one day,' says ECB’s Robert Key Two-time AL MVP Ohtani inked a record 10-year, $700 million contract with the team in the offseason. The allegations surfaced during the Seoul Series, the first scheduled MLB games in South Korea between the Dodgers and the San Diego Padres.

Baseball: MLB launches probe against Shohei Ohtani, ex-interpreter Ippei Mizuhara following theft allegations

Texas pitcher Jordan Montgomery baffled Houston batters for 6 1/3 scoreless innings on Sunday as the visiting Rangers beat the defending champion Astros 2-0 in the Major League Baseball playoffs. Montgomery struck out six and scattered five hits with a walk as the Rangers took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven American League Championship Series, which continues on Monday in Houston.

"He had command of all his pitches," Texas catcher Jonah Heim said. "He made some really big pitches when he had to. That was really impressive."

Arizona visits Philadelphia on Monday to open the National League Championship Series, which will decide the Texas-Houston winner's opponent in the World Series. An Astros club making its seventh consecutive appearance in the ALCS was mystified by Montgomery, a 30-year-old US left-hander who outdueled Houston ace Justin Verlander, a two-time World Series champion who struck out five but surrendered two runs on six hits over 6 2/3 innings.

Texas took a 1-0 lead in the second inning when Evan Carter doubled and scored on a Heim single. Leody Taveras homered off Verlander in the fifth to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead.

Also&nbsp;Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-legend-rafael-nadal-announces-return-date-following-lengthy-injury-lay-off-665140">Tennis legend Rafael Nadal announces return date following lengthy injury layoff</a>

At 21, Carter, who made his MLB debut last month, is the youngest player in MLB history with five extra-base hits in his first six playoff games.

"This is so much fun. That's all I think about," Carter said. "This is awesome. I'm just trying to keep my feet grounded and keep rolling with this team. This has been a lot of fun."

Houston squandered a golden scoring chance in the eighth inning after Jose Altuve walked. Alex Bregman followed with a deep fly ball to left field that was grabbed by Carter for an out.

"I was hoping it wouldn't go over right there," Carter said. "If it would have been a couple feet to the left, it might have. It played to our favor playing a tough wall back there. It worked out well."

Altuve had rounded second base and raced back to first, but in doing so did not retouch second base on his way back. The Rangers threw back to second, made a video replay appeal and Altuve was called out. Yordan Alvarez then grounded out to end the inning.

Rangers closing relief pitcher Jose Leclerc entered in the ninth inning and retired&nbsp;the heart of the Astros lineup in order to complete the victory.

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Texas pitcher Jordan Montgomery baffled Houston batters for 6 1/3 scoreless innings on Sunday as the visiting Rangers beat the defending champion Astros 2-0 in the Major League Baseball playoffs.

Texas pitcher Jordan Montgomery baffled Houston batters for 6 1/3 scoreless innings on Sunday as the visiting Rangers beat the defending champion Astros 2-0 in the Major League Baseball playoffs. Montgomery struck out six and scattered five hits with a walk as the Rangers took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven American League Championship Series, which continues on Monday in Houston. "He had command of all his pitches," Texas catcher Jonah Heim said. "He made some really big pitches when he had to. That was really impressive." Arizona visits Philadelphia on Monday to open the National League Championship Series, which will decide the Texas-Houston winner's opponent in the World Series. An Astros club making its seventh consecutive appearance in the ALCS was mystified by Montgomery, a 30-year-old US left-hander who outdueled Houston ace Justin Verlander, a two-time World Series champion who struck out five but surrendered two runs on six hits over 6 2/3 innings. Texas took a 1-0 lead in the second inning when Evan Carter doubled and scored on a Heim single. Leody Taveras homered off Verlander in the fifth to give the Rangers a 2-0 lead. Also Read: Tennis legend Rafael Nadal announces return date following lengthy injury layoff At 21, Carter, who made his MLB debut last month, is the youngest player in MLB history with five extra-base hits in his first six playoff games. "This is so much fun. That's all I think about," Carter said. "This is awesome. I'm just trying to keep my feet grounded and keep rolling with this team. This has been a lot of fun." Houston squandered a golden scoring chance in the eighth inning after Jose Altuve walked. Alex Bregman followed with a deep fly ball to left field that was grabbed by Carter for an out. "I was hoping it wouldn't go over right there," Carter said. "If it would have been a couple feet to the left, it might have. It played to our favor playing a tough wall back there. It worked out well." Altuve had rounded second base and raced back to first, but in doing so did not retouch second base on his way back. The Rangers threw back to second, made a video replay appeal and Altuve was called out. Yordan Alvarez then grounded out to end the inning. Rangers closing relief pitcher Jose Leclerc entered in the ninth inning and retired the heart of the Astros lineup in order to complete the victory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

MLB: Texas Rangers defeat defending champions Houston in playoffs

Corey Seager smashed a two-run homer as the Texas Rangers bounced back to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-1 on Monday (Oct 30) and take a 2-1 lead in the World Series.

Seager blasted a 421-foot home run over right field in the top of the third inning after Marcus Semien had driven in a run for Nathaniel Lowe earlier in the inning.

The Diamondbacks had routed Texas 9-1 in Arlington on Saturday to level the best-of-seven World Series. But it was a different story on Monday as Major League Baseball's showpiece final returned to Arizona for game three.

The Rangers suffered an early blow when starter Max Scherzer was pulled from the mound after just 36 scoreless pitches with an apparent back injury.

That forced Jon Gray, tabbed as the Rangers starter in game four, to come out of the bullpen to take over.&nbsp;

Gray preserved Ranger's three-run lead with three scoreless innings and the Texas pitchers continued to stay on top.

"He was the hero tonight," Seager said of Gray. "He came out and gave us some really big innings, he kept them off balance, he put up zeros and that's exactly what we needed in that moment."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mlb-adolis-garcia-helps-rangers-defeat-arizona-diamondbacks-in-world-series-opener-652213">Also read |&nbsp;MLB: Adolis Garcia helps Rangers defeat Arizona Diamondbacks in World Series opener</a>

Gray meanwhile said he had taken a "one pitch at a time" approach after being unexpectedly pressed into action after Scherzer's injury.

"One pitch at a time, focus on the execution, do your job and let everything else take of itself," Gray said.

"I knew that coming out of the bullpen things can happen really fast. So it was all about trying to slow things down and taking my time."

Rangers reliever Josh Sborz struck out two batters before Aroldis Chapman took over in the eighth inning.&nbsp;

Arizona finally threatened to build some momentum in the bottom of the eighth when Geraldo Perdomo's single to left field sent Emmanuel Rivera racing over home plate to cut the deficit to 3-1.

But the Diamondbacks' rally was halted in its tracks after a deft piece of glove work from Seager set up a double play that ended the inning with Perdomo out at second and Ketel Marte out at first.

Texas's line-up were unable to add to the lead in the ninth inning which left Rangers closer Jose Leclerc tasked with making the final three outs.&nbsp;

Leclerc duly took care of business, with Gabriel Moreno grounding out before striking out Christian Walker and Tommy Pham to end the game.

Game four takes place in Phoenix on Tuesday.

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Corey Seager smashed a two-run homer as the Texas Rangers bounced back to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-1 on Monday (Oct 30) and take a 2-1 lead in the World Series.

Corey Seager smashed a two-run homer as the Texas Rangers bounced back to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-1 on Monday (Oct 30) and take a 2-1 lead in the World Series. Seager blasted a 421-foot home run over right field in the top of the third inning after Marcus Semien had driven in a run for Nathaniel Lowe earlier in the inning. The Diamondbacks had routed Texas 9-1 in Arlington on Saturday to level the best-of-seven World Series. But it was a different story on Monday as Major League Baseball's showpiece final returned to Arizona for game three. The Rangers suffered an early blow when starter Max Scherzer was pulled from the mound after just 36 scoreless pitches with an apparent back injury. That forced Jon Gray, tabbed as the Rangers starter in game four, to come out of the bullpen to take over. Gray preserved Ranger's three-run lead with three scoreless innings and the Texas pitchers continued to stay on top. "He was the hero tonight," Seager said of Gray. "He came out and gave us some really big innings, he kept them off balance, he put up zeros and that's exactly what we needed in that moment." Also read | MLB: Adolis Garcia helps Rangers defeat Arizona Diamondbacks in World Series opener Gray meanwhile said he had taken a "one pitch at a time" approach after being unexpectedly pressed into action after Scherzer's injury. "One pitch at a time, focus on the execution, do your job and let everything else take of itself," Gray said. "I knew that coming out of the bullpen things can happen really fast. So it was all about trying to slow things down and taking my time." Rangers reliever Josh Sborz struck out two batters before Aroldis Chapman took over in the eighth inning. Arizona finally threatened to build some momentum in the bottom of the eighth when Geraldo Perdomo's single to left field sent Emmanuel Rivera racing over home plate to cut the deficit to 3-1. But the Diamondbacks' rally was halted in its tracks after a deft piece of glove work from Seager set up a double play that ended the inning with Perdomo out at second and Ketel Marte out at first. Texas's line-up were unable to add to the lead in the ninth inning which left Rangers closer Jose Leclerc tasked with making the final three outs. Leclerc duly took care of business, with Gabriel Moreno grounding out before striking out Christian Walker and Tommy Pham to end the game. Game four takes place in Phoenix on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

MLB: Texas Rangers down Arizona Diamondbacks to take lead in World Series

Milwaukee Brewers pitcher J.C. Mejia was issued a 162-game suspension without pay after his second career positive doping test for stanozolol, Major League Baseball announced on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old Dominican right-hander first tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid in May of last year and received an 80-game ban from MLB.

Mejia's second positive test for the performance-enhancing substance led MLB to issue what equals a full season ban to the Brewers reliever immediately as a repeat offender under its Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program with the players union.

"The Milwaukee Brewers fully support MLB's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program and share in the goal of eliminating performance-enhancing substances from our game," said, Brewers general manager Matt Arnold.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-a-brief-history-of-all-india-vs-pakistan-matches-in-odi-world-cups-637997">In Pics: A brief history of all India vs Pakistan matches in ODI World Cups</a>

Mejia, who made his MLB debut in 2021 with Cleveland, was 1-0 this season with a 5.56 earned-run average, 13 strikeouts and three walks over 11 1/3 innings.

His 2023 season was ended last week when he was placed on the 60-day injured list with shoulder inflammation before becoming the first player this season to receive an MLB doping suspension that would shut him down for the entire 2024 season.

The Brewers, with a record of 85-66, lead the National League Central division by six games over the Chicago Cubs with 11 games remaining in the campaign.

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Milwaukee Brewers pitcher J.C. Mejia was issued a 162-game suspension without pay after his second career positive doping test for stanozolol, Major League Baseball announced on Wednesday.

Milwaukee Brewers pitcher J.C. Mejia was issued a 162-game suspension without pay after his second career positive doping test for stanozolol, Major League Baseball announced on Wednesday. The 27-year-old Dominican right-hander first tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid in May of last year and received an 80-game ban from MLB. Mejia's second positive test for the performance-enhancing substance led MLB to issue what equals a full season ban to the Brewers reliever immediately as a repeat offender under its Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program with the players union. "The Milwaukee Brewers fully support MLB's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program and share in the goal of eliminating performance-enhancing substances from our game," said, Brewers general manager Matt Arnold. ALSO READ | In Pics: A brief history of all India vs Pakistan matches in ODI World Cups Mejia, who made his MLB debut in 2021 with Cleveland, was 1-0 this season with a 5.56 earned-run average, 13 strikeouts and three walks over 11 1/3 innings. His 2023 season was ended last week when he was placed on the 60-day injured list with shoulder inflammation before becoming the first player this season to receive an MLB doping suspension that would shut him down for the entire 2024 season. The Brewers, with a record of 85-66, lead the National League Central division by six games over the Chicago Cubs with 11 games remaining in the campaign. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Baseball: Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Mejia hit with 162-game MLB doping ban

Japanese baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani underwent surgery to repair his injured elbow on Tuesday, with a top sports injury surgeon stating that the Los Angeles Angels ace will be ready to hit and pitch again in 2025.

Ohtani has not pitched since being diagnosed with a torn ligament in his right elbow last month, and has since been shut down for the remainder of the regular season after suffering a side strain.&nbsp;

"Shohei had his procedure this morning at Kerlan &amp; Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles," Ohtani's agent Nez Balelo said in a statement on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"The final decision and type of procedure was made with a heavy emphasis on the big picture. Shohei wanted to make sure the direction taken gave him every opportunity to hit and pitch for many years to come."

Los Angeles surgeon Neal ElAttrache, who last week operated on Aaron Rodgers after the New York Jets quarterback ruptured his Achilles tendon, performed the procedure on Tuesday.

ElAttrache said Ohtani would be fit in time to hit for the start of the 2024 season, and would be able to hit and pitch by 2025.

"The ultimate plan, after deliberation with Shohei, was to repair the issue at hand and to reinforce the healthy ligament in place while adding viable tissue for the longevity of the elbow," ElAttrache said.&nbsp;

"I expect full recovery and he'll be ready to hit without any restrictions come opening day of 2024 and (hit and pitch) come 2025."

Ohtani meanwhile vowed to make a full recovery after saying the procedure "went very well."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/star-brazilian-footballer-to-visit-indias-kolkata-before-durga-puja-in-october-find-itinerary-details-637659">Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details</a>

"I will work as hard as I can and do my best to come back on the diamond stronger than ever," he wrote on Instagram.

Ohtani's future has been shrouded in uncertainty since his elbow injury, with the star entering free agency at the end of the season.

The 29-year-old is expected to be the subject of a frenzied bidding war during the off-season with several clubs expected to make a run to land his signature.

Ohtani, described as the best two-way threat since Babe Ruth, had been enjoying a stellar season, smashing 44 home runs while boasting a 3.14 ERA from the mound with 167 strikeouts from 132 innings.

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Japanese baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani underwent surgery to repair his injured elbow on Tuesday, with a top sports injury surgeon stating that the Los Angeles Angels ace will be ready to hit and pitch again in 2025.

Japanese baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani underwent surgery to repair his injured elbow on Tuesday, with a top sports injury surgeon stating that the Los Angeles Angels ace will be ready to hit and pitch again in 2025. Ohtani has not pitched since being diagnosed with a torn ligament in his right elbow last month, and has since been shut down for the remainder of the regular season after suffering a side strain. "Shohei had his procedure this morning at Kerlan & Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles," Ohtani's agent Nez Balelo said in a statement on Tuesday. "The final decision and type of procedure was made with a heavy emphasis on the big picture. Shohei wanted to make sure the direction taken gave him every opportunity to hit and pitch for many years to come." Los Angeles surgeon Neal ElAttrache, who last week operated on Aaron Rodgers after the New York Jets quarterback ruptured his Achilles tendon, performed the procedure on Tuesday. ElAttrache said Ohtani would be fit in time to hit for the start of the 2024 season, and would be able to hit and pitch by 2025. "The ultimate plan, after deliberation with Shohei, was to repair the issue at hand and to reinforce the healthy ligament in place while adding viable tissue for the longevity of the elbow," ElAttrache said. "I expect full recovery and he'll be ready to hit without any restrictions come opening day of 2024 and (hit and pitch) come 2025." Ohtani meanwhile vowed to make a full recovery after saying the procedure "went very well." ALSO READ | Star Brazilian footballer to visit India's Kolkata before Durga Puja in October, find itinerary details "I will work as hard as I can and do my best to come back on the diamond stronger than ever," he wrote on Instagram. Ohtani's future has been shrouded in uncertainty since his elbow injury, with the star entering free agency at the end of the season. The 29-year-old is expected to be the subject of a frenzied bidding war during the off-season with several clubs expected to make a run to land his signature. Ohtani, described as the best two-way threat since Babe Ruth, had been enjoying a stellar season, smashing 44 home runs while boasting a 3.14 ERA from the mound with 167 strikeouts from 132 innings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Baseball: Los Angeles star Shohei Ohtani undergoes elbow surgery, tipped for 'full recovery'

Major League Baseball placed Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias on administrative leave Wednesday, three days after police arrested him on suspicion of felony domestic violence.

The 27-year-old Mexican left-hander didn't travel with the Dodgers to Miami this week after he was arrested Sunday night outside BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, where he had watched the Major League Soccer match between LAFC and Inter Miami.

He was taken into custody on charges of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, which can be filed as a felony or misdemeanor, and released Monday on a $50,000 bond.

Booking records showed he was scheduled to appear in court on September 27.

"Per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Julio Urias has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation," MLB said in a statement.

"The administrative leave, which is effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. We will refrain from further comment until the appropriate time."

A player on administrative league is still paid, but is removed from a team's roster.

MLB can unilaterally place a player on administrative leave for seven days under the joint domestic-violence policy and the leave can be renewed with approval of the MLB Players Association.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2023-aryna-sabalenka-beats-chinas-zheng-qinwen-to-reach-semi-finals-633071">US Open 2023: Aryna Sabalenka beats China's Zheng Qinwen to reach semi-finals</a>

"The Dodgers take all allegations of the kind in this case very seriously, and we do not condone or excuse any acts of domestic violence," the Dodgers said in a statement of their own.

"We are fully cooperating with MLB's investigation and support MLB's and the Commissioner's enforcement of the policy."

Authorities have given few details of the incident that led to the charge, but a spokesperson for Exposition Park, where BMO Field is located, said Wednesday that he was arrested when officers of the Exposition Park Department of Public Safety had probable cause to believe he attacked a woman.

Urias was involved in a May 2019 incident at a mall parking lot in Beverly Hills where he was accused of shoving a woman to the ground.

While he was not prosecuted over the matter, Urias was suspended for 20 games for violating MLB's domestic violence policy.

Urias, who helped the Dodgers win the 2020 World Series, had the best record in the National League in 2021 at 20-3, and last year had the lowest earned-run average in the NL at 2.16 while going 17-7.

Urias is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.

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Major League Baseball placed Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias on administrative leave Wednesday, three days after police arrested him on suspicion of felony domestic violence.

Major League Baseball placed Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias on administrative leave Wednesday, three days after police arrested him on suspicion of felony domestic violence. The 27-year-old Mexican left-hander didn't travel with the Dodgers to Miami this week after he was arrested Sunday night outside BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, where he had watched the Major League Soccer match between LAFC and Inter Miami. He was taken into custody on charges of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant, which can be filed as a felony or misdemeanor, and released Monday on a $50,000 bond. Booking records showed he was scheduled to appear in court on September 27. "Per an agreement between MLB and the MLBPA, Julio Urias has been placed on Administrative Leave until further notice as MLB continues its ongoing investigation," MLB said in a statement. "The administrative leave, which is effective immediately, is not disciplinary under the Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy. We will refrain from further comment until the appropriate time." A player on administrative league is still paid, but is removed from a team's roster. MLB can unilaterally place a player on administrative leave for seven days under the joint domestic-violence policy and the leave can be renewed with approval of the MLB Players Association. ALSO READ | US Open 2023: Aryna Sabalenka beats China's Zheng Qinwen to reach semi-finals "The Dodgers take all allegations of the kind in this case very seriously, and we do not condone or excuse any acts of domestic violence," the Dodgers said in a statement of their own. "We are fully cooperating with MLB's investigation and support MLB's and the Commissioner's enforcement of the policy." Authorities have given few details of the incident that led to the charge, but a spokesperson for Exposition Park, where BMO Field is located, said Wednesday that he was arrested when officers of the Exposition Park Department of Public Safety had probable cause to believe he attacked a woman. Urias was involved in a May 2019 incident at a mall parking lot in Beverly Hills where he was accused of shoving a woman to the ground. While he was not prosecuted over the matter, Urias was suspended for 20 games for violating MLB's domestic violence policy. Urias, who helped the Dodgers win the 2020 World Series, had the best record in the National League in 2021 at 20-3, and last year had the lowest earned-run average in the NL at 2.16 while going 17-7. Urias is set to become a free agent at the end of the season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Baseball: MLB places Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Julio Urias on leave amid domestic violence charge

The New York Yankees remained atop the list of Major League Baseball's most valuable franchises, it's $7.1 billion price tag an 18% jump from last year, Forbes magazine reported Thursday. The annual list of MLB team values came a week before the start of the 2023 campaign and showed the Yankees atop MLB's 30 clubs as they have been every year since Forbes began the ratings in December 1998.

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Baseball’s Most Valuable Teams 2023: Price Tags Are Up 12% Despite Regional TV Woes <a href="https://t.co/xWB22s7wTo">https://t.co/xWB22s7wTo</a> by Mike Ozanian and Justin Teitelbaum <a href="https://t.co/dFv79grvJt">pic.twitter.com/dFv79grvJt</a>
— Forbes (@Forbes) <a href="https://twitter.com/Forbes/status/1638885675360718849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The new figures boost the Yankees above a $6 billion valuation that was fourth overall last September in the Forbes list of all richest sports teams. The new mark would trail only the NFL Dallas Cowboys at $8 billion from six months ago.

Manchester United was listed 19th overall last September by Forbes at $4.6 billion with current bids for the English Premier League side said to be in the $5.5 billion range -- what would be a record price paid for a sports team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-set-to-sack-manager-julian-nagelsmann-ex-chelsea-boss-thomas-tuchel-likely-to-replace-him-575168">Bayern Munich set to sack manager Julian Nagelsmann, ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel likely to replace him</a>

The average MLB team rose 12% in value according to Forbes to $2.32 billion after league revenue jumped 7.8% to a record $10.3 billion in 2022.

Ticket revenue jumped 64% to $2.4 billion while operating income was down 20% from the previous season to an average of $17.7 million per team as player costs rose 135 to $5.2 billion, Forbes reported.

The Yankees benefit from having the largest regional sports television network in the United States.

A dispute over regional sports network rights fees for the Washington Nationals and Baltimore Orioles has hindered a potential sale of the Nationals, valued at $2 billion by Forbes -- 16th overall.

The Los Angeles Dodgers rank second on the MLB franchise value list at $4.8 billion followed in order by the Boston Red Sox at $4.5 billion, the Chicago Cubs at $4.1 billion, the San Francisco Giants at $3.7 billion, the New York Mets at $2.9 billion and the Los Angeles Angels at $2.7 billion.

At the bottom of the 30-team list were the Miami Marlins at $1 billion with the Oakland A's, considering a move to Las Vegas, 29th overall at $1.18 billion. The Cincinnati Reds were at $1.19 billion with the Kansas City Royals at $1.2 billion.

The New York Yankees remained atop the list of Major League Baseball's most valuable franchises, it's $7.1 billion price tag an 18% jump from last year, Forbes magazine reported Thursday.

The New York Yankees remained atop the list of Major League Baseball's most valuable franchises, it's $7.1 billion price tag an 18% jump from last year, Forbes magazine reported Thursday. The annual list of MLB team values came a week before the start of the 2023 campaign and showed the Yankees atop MLB's 30 clubs as they have been every year since Forbes began the ratings in December 1998. Baseball’s Most Valuable Teams 2023: Price Tags Are Up 12% Despite Regional TV Woes https://t.co/xWB22s7wTo by Mike Ozanian and Justin Teitelbaum pic.twitter.com/dFv79grvJt — Forbes (@Forbes) March 23, 2023 × The new figures boost the Yankees above a $6 billion valuation that was fourth overall last September in the Forbes list of all richest sports teams. The new mark would trail only the NFL Dallas Cowboys at $8 billion from six months ago. Manchester United was listed 19th overall last September by Forbes at $4.6 billion with current bids for the English Premier League side said to be in the $5.5 billion range -- what would be a record price paid for a sports team. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich set to sack manager Julian Nagelsmann, ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel likely to replace him The average MLB team rose 12% in value according to Forbes to $2.32 billion after league revenue jumped 7.8% to a record $10.3 billion in 2022. Ticket revenue jumped 64% to $2.4 billion while operating income was down 20% from the previous season to an average of $17.7 million per team as player costs rose 135 to $5.2 billion, Forbes reported. The Yankees benefit from having the largest regional sports television network in the United States. A dispute over regional sports network rights fees for the Washington Nationals and Baltimore Orioles has hindered a potential sale of the Nationals, valued at $2 billion by Forbes -- 16th overall. The Los Angeles Dodgers rank second on the MLB franchise value list at $4.8 billion followed in order by the Boston Red Sox at $4.5 billion, the Chicago Cubs at $4.1 billion, the San Francisco Giants at $3.7 billion, the New York Mets at $2.9 billion and the Los Angeles Angels at $2.7 billion. At the bottom of the 30-team list were the Miami Marlins at $1 billion with the Oakland A's, considering a move to Las Vegas, 29th overall at $1.18 billion. The Cincinnati Reds were at $1.19 billion with the Kansas City Royals at $1.2 billion.

At $7.1 billion New York Yankees is MLB's most valuable team: Forbes

Listing world's most lucrative sports leagues after IPL media rights auction

Former US President Donald Trump while attending the baseball world series performed the controversial "Tomahawk chop" cheer which is considered a racist gesture by native Americans.

Trump was attending a match between Atlanta Braves and &nbsp;Houston Astros at the&nbsp;Truist Park in Atlanta.

National Congress of American Indians(NCAI) president Fawn Sharp denounced the gesture saying: "We have repeatedly and unequivocally made our position clear -&nbsp;native people are not mascots, and degrading rituals like the ‘Tomahawk chop’ that dehumanise and harm us have no place in American society."

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NCAI reiterates its longstanding opposition to the Atlanta <a href="https://twitter.com/Braves?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Braves</a>' mascot and “tomahawk chop” fan ritual as the team plays in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a>. 
 
Read NCAI President Fawn Sharp’s full statement: <a href="https://t.co/pPWkoziRie">https://t.co/pPWkoziRie</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NotYourMascot?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NotYourMascot</a> <a href="https://t.co/N3RxEEASLs">pic.twitter.com/N3RxEEASLs</a>
— National Congress of American Indians (@NCAI1944) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCAI1944/status/1453484550366113795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The forward and backward chopping gesture is usually undertaken at Atlanta Braves games. Native Americans say it promotes racist stereotyping.

The NCAI chief called teams to follow the "example set by the Cleveland Guardians". The US major league team had decided to retire its name “Indians” and mascot.

However, Major League Baseball(MLB) commissioner Rob Manfred had said that native Americans in Atlanta were "fully supportive of the Braves' programme, including the chop."

"For me, that's kind of the end of the story. In that market, we're taking into account the native American community," Manfred added.&nbsp;

Trump's gesture was criticised on social media as the US president's latest controversial gesture upset&nbsp;many people.

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Do you suppose there's any chance in the world that Atlanta Braves fans realize how ridiculous they look to the entire rest of the planet with their idiotic Tomahawk Chop? <a href="https://t.co/L9iAsjnjPT">pic.twitter.com/L9iAsjnjPT</a>
— Bob Geiger (@GeigerNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeigerNews/status/1454645637786574849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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President Trump! Tomahawk chop at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldSeries</a> Game 4 tonight in Atlanta. 🪓 <a href="https://t.co/OPcW5D7eVc">pic.twitter.com/OPcW5D7eVc</a>
— Suburban Black Man 🇺🇸 (@goodblackdude) <a href="https://twitter.com/goodblackdude/status/1454605828690825222?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It's important, especially for those whose opinions on the matter are deeply ingrained and think any discussion of the tomahawk chop is disingenuous, to understand the mistreatment of indigenous people in Georgia and why the chop is so bothersome to many. So, a history lesson.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffPassan/status/1454092263798288393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Trump's wife Melania was seated next to him and sought to join him. The Braves fans also joined Trump in carrying out the offensive celebration which has been repeatedly criticised by native Americans.

The former president had earlier thanked Manfred for the invite while adding that he and Melania were looking forward to the game. Republican Senate candidate Herschel Walker was also at the game.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Former US President Donald Trump while attending the baseball world series performed the controversial "Tomahawk chop" cheer which is considered a racist gesture by native Americans.

Former US President Donald Trump while attending the baseball world series performed the controversial "Tomahawk chop" cheer which is considered a racist gesture by native Americans. Trump was attending a match between Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros at the Truist Park in Atlanta. National Congress of American Indians(NCAI) president Fawn Sharp denounced the gesture saying: "We have repeatedly and unequivocally made our position clear - native people are not mascots, and degrading rituals like the ‘Tomahawk chop’ that dehumanise and harm us have no place in American society." NCAI reiterates its longstanding opposition to the Atlanta @Braves' mascot and “tomahawk chop” fan ritual as the team plays in the @MLB #WorldSeries. Read NCAI President Fawn Sharp’s full statement: https://t.co/pPWkoziRie#NotYourMascot pic.twitter.com/N3RxEEASLs — National Congress of American Indians (@NCAI1944) October 27, 2021 × The forward and backward chopping gesture is usually undertaken at Atlanta Braves games. Native Americans say it promotes racist stereotyping. The NCAI chief called teams to follow the "example set by the Cleveland Guardians". The US major league team had decided to retire its name “Indians” and mascot. However, Major League Baseball(MLB) commissioner Rob Manfred had said that native Americans in Atlanta were "fully supportive of the Braves' programme, including the chop." "For me, that's kind of the end of the story. In that market, we're taking into account the native American community," Manfred added. Trump's gesture was criticised on social media as the US president's latest controversial gesture upset many people. Do you suppose there's any chance in the world that Atlanta Braves fans realize how ridiculous they look to the entire rest of the planet with their idiotic Tomahawk Chop? pic.twitter.com/L9iAsjnjPT — Bob Geiger (@GeigerNews) October 31, 2021 × President Trump! Tomahawk chop at #WorldSeries Game 4 tonight in Atlanta. 🪓 pic.twitter.com/OPcW5D7eVc — Suburban Black Man 🇺🇸 (@goodblackdude) October 31, 2021 × It's important, especially for those whose opinions on the matter are deeply ingrained and think any discussion of the tomahawk chop is disingenuous, to understand the mistreatment of indigenous people in Georgia and why the chop is so bothersome to many. So, a history lesson. — Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 29, 2021 × Trump's wife Melania was seated next to him and sought to join him. The Braves fans also joined Trump in carrying out the offensive celebration which has been repeatedly criticised by native Americans. The former president had earlier thanked Manfred for the invite while adding that he and Melania were looking forward to the game. Republican Senate candidate Herschel Walker was also at the game. (With inputs from Agencies)

Trump performs controversial 'Tomahawk chop' during baseball game; Twitter outraged

Even though sporting activity has been hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, MLB India has utilized the time to impart online coaching and training lessons to baseball coaches across the country. 
 
MLB, in association with India on Track (IOT) and the Amateur Baseball Federation of India (ABFI) conducted online interactive coaching sessions to over 75 participants on Saturday&nbsp;and Sunday. 
 
The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India – David Palese, is currently conducting on-field coaching clinics with three IOT-MLB coaches from Bengaluru on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays preparing them for the weekend sessions that are broadcasted online. During the weekend, different elements of baseball such as pitching, hitting, fitness/agility and defense by position are covered. These online sessions create opportunities for participants to see how fault analysis can be done and provides an interactive opportunity from the comfort of their homes across the nation. 
 
“The online coaching and training lessons have helped the coaches in India to continue learning new aspects of baseball from their homes. The coaches have been able to enhance their knowledge about baseball and be able to implement newly acquired skills and drills to their players and teams in their home towns”&nbsp;said David Palese.

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Palese trained the three IOT-MLB coaches on the field in Gurgaon on Saturday and Sunday, where the training sessions were broadcasted to coaches across India, who dialed-in for the online interactive coaching sessions from their homes. During the Coaching Webinars on the weekends, Palese teaches the finer aspects of baseball to coaches who are willing to dial in and see it online for free of cost.&nbsp; 
 
The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of speed, agility and fitness and throwing during the online interactive coaching on Saturday, while on Sunday, he explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of Pitching and Catching. 
 
David Palese is joined in India by Ryo Takahashi,&nbsp;who heads the business and commercial operations for MLB India. Having set up their MLB India office in New Delhi, MLB has conducted more than 320 workshops in schools across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru as a part of its First Pitch Program. Over 30,000 children in the age group of 8-14 years participated actively in these sessions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-australian-fan-chants-vande-marataram-during-gabba-test-video-goes-viral-357939" hreflang="en">Watch: Australian fan chants 'Vande Marataram' during Gabba Test, video goes viral</a> 
 
Ryo Takahashi said, “We have always believed that quality coaching is essential for baseball to grow at the grassroots, youth and eventually an elite level. The response from the coaches in India for the webinars has been terrific and a huge boost for the growth potential of baseball in India. It’s been fantastic to see many coaches register and attend these sessions every weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are starting to see with our own eyes the potential that the game of baseball has in India and we are confident that we are moving in the right direction.” 
 
Commenting on this initiative, Harish Kumar, former National Indian Baseball Team Captain and present Secretary General of ABFI said,&nbsp;“MLB has taken tremendous steps to improve baseball coaching at the grassroots level since setting up its office in New Delhi in 2019. The on-field and online training sessions have been fantastic initiatives,&nbsp;which have helped the sport of baseball to grow in India even during difficult times. We are in discussion with MLB on what comes next, which we hope to implement in the upcoming year. We are really looking forward to working with MLB in more programs to improve the playing standard of baseball in India.”&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
The Coaching Webinars for education and development of Indian baseball coaches, which began on 19 December 2020, will be carried out on every weekend until February 7.

Even though sporting activity has been hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, MLB India has utilized the time to impart online coaching and training lessons to baseball coaches across the country.

Even though sporting activity has been hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic, MLB India has utilized the time to impart online coaching and training lessons to baseball coaches across the country. MLB, in association with India on Track (IOT) and the Amateur Baseball Federation of India (ABFI) conducted online interactive coaching sessions to over 75 participants on Saturday and Sunday. The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India – David Palese, is currently conducting on-field coaching clinics with three IOT-MLB coaches from Bengaluru on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays preparing them for the weekend sessions that are broadcasted online. During the weekend, different elements of baseball such as pitching, hitting, fitness/agility and defense by position are covered. These online sessions create opportunities for participants to see how fault analysis can be done and provides an interactive opportunity from the comfort of their homes across the nation. “The online coaching and training lessons have helped the coaches in India to continue learning new aspects of baseball from their homes. The coaches have been able to enhance their knowledge about baseball and be able to implement newly acquired skills and drills to their players and teams in their home towns” said David Palese. ALSO READ: Formidable competitors on field, solid partners off it: PM Narendra Modi to Australian PM after Test series triumph Palese trained the three IOT-MLB coaches on the field in Gurgaon on Saturday and Sunday, where the training sessions were broadcasted to coaches across India, who dialed-in for the online interactive coaching sessions from their homes. During the Coaching Webinars on the weekends, Palese teaches the finer aspects of baseball to coaches who are willing to dial in and see it online for free of cost. The Head of Baseball Development, MLB India explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of speed, agility and fitness and throwing during the online interactive coaching on Saturday, while on Sunday, he explained about the drills, techniques and philosophies of Pitching and Catching. David Palese is joined in India by Ryo Takahashi, who heads the business and commercial operations for MLB India. Having set up their MLB India office in New Delhi, MLB has conducted more than 320 workshops in schools across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru as a part of its First Pitch Program. Over 30,000 children in the age group of 8-14 years participated actively in these sessions. ALSO READ: Watch: Australian fan chants 'Vande Marataram' during Gabba Test, video goes viral Ryo Takahashi said, “We have always believed that quality coaching is essential for baseball to grow at the grassroots, youth and eventually an elite level. The response from the coaches in India for the webinars has been terrific and a huge boost for the growth potential of baseball in India. It’s been fantastic to see many coaches register and attend these sessions every weekend. We are starting to see with our own eyes the potential that the game of baseball has in India and we are confident that we are moving in the right direction.” Commenting on this initiative, Harish Kumar, former National Indian Baseball Team Captain and present Secretary General of ABFI said, “MLB has taken tremendous steps to improve baseball coaching at the grassroots level since setting up its office in New Delhi in 2019. The on-field and online training sessions have been fantastic initiatives, which have helped the sport of baseball to grow in India even during difficult times. We are in discussion with MLB on what comes next, which we hope to implement in the upcoming year. We are really looking forward to working with MLB in more programs to improve the playing standard of baseball in India.” The Coaching Webinars for education and development of Indian baseball coaches, which began on 19 December 2020, will be carried out on every weekend until February 7.

Major League Baseball conducts baseball coaching sessions online for over 75 coaches

The 2020 Major League Baseball season is set to start in July, commissioner Rob Manfred said Tuesday, after players signed off on health protocols and agreed to report to training.

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The announcement that the season will begin July 23 or 24 comes after weeks of wrangling between owners and players over a framework for a season shortened by the coronavirus pandemic.

"Major League Baseball is thrilled to announce that the 2020 season is on the horizon," Manfred said in a statement.

"We have provided the Players Association with a schedule to play 60 games and are excited to provide our great fans with baseball again soon."

Manfred's comments came after the Major League Baseball Players Association said its members would report to training camps on July 1.

"All remaining issues have been resolved and players are reporting to training camps," the union said.

MLB&nbsp;and the MLBPA had been at loggerheads over how to salvage a season that should have begun on March 26.

The league proposed a succession of deals that would have seen the players receive only a percentage of their salaries, prorated by number of games played.

Players pushed back against the league proposals, noting that they had already agreed to a pay cut in March and should not be required to accept a further reduction in salary.

The MLBPA had wanted a longer regular season, but when the union rejected the most recent&nbsp;MLB&nbsp;proposal owners voted on Monday to impose a 60-game schedule -- which would still be contingent on reaching agreement with players on health and safety protocols.

MLB&nbsp;said in a statement posted on&nbsp;MLB.com that the players had accepted the protocols.

When the season gets underway teams will play in their home ballparks without fans, baseball opting against the kind of "bubble" environment that will see the NBA return to action with all teams playing at a single location at a sports complex at Disney World in Florida.

To decrease travel, each team will play the majority of its games against its four division rivals, and remaining games against the clubs in the corresponding geographical division in the other league.

Under format, players will receive the full prorated share of their salaries.

Multiple media outlets reported that as usual 10 teams will qualify for the playoffs.

The 2020 Major League Baseball season is set to start in July, commissioner Rob Manfred said Tuesday, after players signed off on health protocols and agreed to report to training.

The 2020 Major League Baseball season is set to start in July, commissioner Rob Manfred said Tuesday, after players signed off on health protocols and agreed to report to training. Also read: 'Bubba Wallace was not the target of a hate crime as per FBI investigation': NASCAR The announcement that the season will begin July 23 or 24 comes after weeks of wrangling between owners and players over a framework for a season shortened by the coronavirus pandemic. "Major League Baseball is thrilled to announce that the 2020 season is on the horizon," Manfred said in a statement. "We have provided the Players Association with a schedule to play 60 games and are excited to provide our great fans with baseball again soon." Manfred's comments came after the Major League Baseball Players Association said its members would report to training camps on July 1. "All remaining issues have been resolved and players are reporting to training camps," the union said. MLB and the MLBPA had been at loggerheads over how to salvage a season that should have begun on March 26. The league proposed a succession of deals that would have seen the players receive only a percentage of their salaries, prorated by number of games played. Players pushed back against the league proposals, noting that they had already agreed to a pay cut in March and should not be required to accept a further reduction in salary. The MLBPA had wanted a longer regular season, but when the union rejected the most recent MLB proposal owners voted on Monday to impose a 60-game schedule -- which would still be contingent on reaching agreement with players on health and safety protocols. MLB said in a statement posted on MLB.com that the players had accepted the protocols. When the season gets underway teams will play in their home ballparks without fans, baseball opting against the kind of "bubble" environment that will see the NBA return to action with all teams playing at a single location at a sports complex at Disney World in Florida. To decrease travel, each team will play the majority of its games against its four division rivals, and remaining games against the clubs in the corresponding geographical division in the other league. Under format, players will receive the full prorated share of their salaries. Multiple media outlets reported that as usual 10 teams will qualify for the playoffs.

Major League Baseball season to start in July: Commissioner

Major League Baseball edged closer to a shortened season on Monday as bitter wrangling between team owners and players neared its endgame.

MLB team owners on Monday voted unanimously to go ahead with the 2020 season under the terms of a deal reached with the MLB Players Association in March.

The owners' vote came after the MLBPA's executive board voted earlier in the day against a proposed 60-game regular season with expanded playoffs.

The rejection means MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred can now order teams to play a drastically shortened season -- something the team owners have approved.

However, before formally inking the shortened season, the MLB has requested that the MLBPA confirm by 5pm Tuesday (2100 GMT) that players will be ready to return to training camp by July 1.

The players must also agree on the terms of the season operating manual, which includes health and safety protocols related to COVID-19.&nbsp;

The MLB and the MLBPA have been at loggerheads over how to salvage the baseball season, which should have started on March 26 but was put on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The league proposed a succession of deals that would have seen the players receive only a percentage of their salaries, prorated by number of games played.

Players pushed back against the league proposals, noting that they had already agreed to a pay cut in March and should not be required to accept a further reduction in salary.

The MLBPA had requested a longer regular season with no pay cuts, a proposal that has been firmly opposed by MLB owners, who will take a massive financial hit from a season that will be played out without spectators.&nbsp;

Major League Baseball edged closer to a shortened season on Monday as bitter wrangling between team owners and players neared its endgame. MLB team owners on Monday voted unanimously to go ahead with the 2020 season under the terms of a deal reached with the MLB Players Association in March.

Major League Baseball edged closer to a shortened season on Monday as bitter wrangling between team owners and players neared its endgame. MLB team owners on Monday voted unanimously to go ahead with the 2020 season under the terms of a deal reached with the MLB Players Association in March. The owners' vote came after the MLBPA's executive board voted earlier in the day against a proposed 60-game regular season with expanded playoffs. The rejection means MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred can now order teams to play a drastically shortened season -- something the team owners have approved. However, before formally inking the shortened season, the MLB has requested that the MLBPA confirm by 5pm Tuesday (2100 GMT) that players will be ready to return to training camp by July 1. The players must also agree on the terms of the season operating manual, which includes health and safety protocols related to COVID-19. The MLB and the MLBPA have been at loggerheads over how to salvage the baseball season, which should have started on March 26 but was put on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic. The league proposed a succession of deals that would have seen the players receive only a percentage of their salaries, prorated by number of games played. Players pushed back against the league proposals, noting that they had already agreed to a pay cut in March and should not be required to accept a further reduction in salary. The MLBPA had requested a longer regular season with no pay cuts, a proposal that has been firmly opposed by MLB owners, who will take a massive financial hit from a season that will be played out without spectators.

Baseball edges closer to season as row nears endgame

Major League Baseball saw 40 players and staff members test positive for COVID-19 in the past week, USA Today reported on Sunday as talks on how to get a 2020 season underway dragged on.

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The newspaper cited two sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, saying the coronavirus cases had ramped up the urgency of negotiations between owners and players on a framework for starting a season that was originally scheduled to begin in March.

The MLB Players Association postponed a vote on Sunday on whether to accept or reject MLB's proposal for a 60-game season with players receiving full prorated salaries.

Negotiations had dragged on for weeks as MLB sought not only to prorate salaries based on the number of games played, but also to pay only a percentage of those salaries -- something players said they would not accept.

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred thought he'd gotten past that stumbling block on Wednesday after hammering out a potential "framework" for an agreement with union chief Tony Clark that paid full prorated salaries for a 60-game season.

But the players countered, asking for 70 games.

USA Today reported that Manfred emailed Clark on Sunday saying that the uptick in COVID-19 cases, and the resulting closure of spring training facilities in Florida and Arizona, meant that 70 games would not be possible and even 60 would be difficult.

It was not clear how the coronavirus cases might impact MLB's plans to play its games in teams' home ballparks without fans.

With spring training facilities closed, teams have been told to plan to conduct pre-season training in their home cities.

An expected three-week preparation period would likely see opening day pushed to the week of July 27.

The league said it wants the regular season to end by September 27 so an expanded playoffs can be completed by late October or early November.

Major League Baseball saw 40 players and staff members test positive for COVID-19 in the past week, USA Today reported on Sunday as talks on how to get a 2020 season underway dragged on.

Major League Baseball saw 40 players and staff members test positive for COVID-19 in the past week, USA Today reported on Sunday as talks on how to get a 2020 season underway dragged on. Also read: Bulgarian tennis player Grigor Dimitrov tests positive for coronavirus The newspaper cited two sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, saying the coronavirus cases had ramped up the urgency of negotiations between owners and players on a framework for starting a season that was originally scheduled to begin in March. The MLB Players Association postponed a vote on Sunday on whether to accept or reject MLB's proposal for a 60-game season with players receiving full prorated salaries. Negotiations had dragged on for weeks as MLB sought not only to prorate salaries based on the number of games played, but also to pay only a percentage of those salaries -- something players said they would not accept. MLB commissioner Rob Manfred thought he'd gotten past that stumbling block on Wednesday after hammering out a potential "framework" for an agreement with union chief Tony Clark that paid full prorated salaries for a 60-game season. But the players countered, asking for 70 games. USA Today reported that Manfred emailed Clark on Sunday saying that the uptick in COVID-19 cases, and the resulting closure of spring training facilities in Florida and Arizona, meant that 70 games would not be possible and even 60 would be difficult. It was not clear how the coronavirus cases might impact MLB's plans to play its games in teams' home ballparks without fans. With spring training facilities closed, teams have been told to plan to conduct pre-season training in their home cities. An expected three-week preparation period would likely see opening day pushed to the week of July 27. The league said it wants the regular season to end by September 27 so an expanded playoffs can be completed by late October or early November.

40 MLB players and staff test positive for COVID-19 in week: Report

The Washington Nationals completed one of the most shocking championship runs in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/baseball-nationals-beat-astros-to-force-world-series-game-seven-showdown-258744">Major League Baseball</a> history Wednesday by defeating Houston 6-2 to capture the US capital's first World Series title since 1924.

Howie Kendrick and Anthony Rendon blasted home runs and the Nationals rallied from two runs down after six innnings in the winner-take-all showdown to claim the best-of-seven final 4-3.

Astros starting pitcher Zack Greinke mystified the Nationals for 6 1/3 innings, allowing only one hit while Yuli Gurriel hit a solo homer and scored on a Carlos Correa single to give Houston a 2-0 lead.

Houston native Rendon, however, smashed a solo homer over the left-field wall off a Greinke changeup in the seventh, sending him to the showers after walking Juan Soto.

Kendrick followed by smacking a fastball from Astros reliever Will Harris off the right-field foul pole for a two-run homer that put the Nats ahead to stay.

Washington added an insurance run in the eighth when Adam Eaton walked, stole second and scored on a Soto single.

In the ninth,&nbsp;Eaton singled with the bases loaded to drive in two more runs and all-but seal Houston's fate.

Patrick Corbin threw three shutout innings and allowed only two hits in relief of Max Scherzer and Daniel Hudson ran down the Astros in order in the ninth to complete the victory.

&nbsp;

The Washington Nationals completed one of the most shocking championship runs in Major League Baseball history Wednesday by defeating Houston 6-2 to capture the US capital's first World Series title since 1924.

The Washington Nationals completed one of the most shocking championship runs in Major League Baseball history Wednesday by defeating Houston 6-2 to capture the US capital's first World Series title since 1924. Howie Kendrick and Anthony Rendon blasted home runs and the Nationals rallied from two runs down after six innnings in the winner-take-all showdown to claim the best-of-seven final 4-3. Astros starting pitcher Zack Greinke mystified the Nationals for 6 1/3 innings, allowing only one hit while Yuli Gurriel hit a solo homer and scored on a Carlos Correa single to give Houston a 2-0 lead. Houston native Rendon, however, smashed a solo homer over the left-field wall off a Greinke changeup in the seventh, sending him to the showers after walking Juan Soto. Kendrick followed by smacking a fastball from Astros reliever Will Harris off the right-field foul pole for a two-run homer that put the Nats ahead to stay. Washington added an insurance run in the eighth when Adam Eaton walked, stole second and scored on a Soto single. In the ninth, Eaton singled with the bases loaded to drive in two more runs and all-but seal Houston's fate. Patrick Corbin threw three shutout innings and allowed only two hits in relief of Max Scherzer and Daniel Hudson ran down the Astros in order in the ninth to complete the victory.

Baseball: Washington Nationals defeat Houston to win World Series

Stephen Strasburg baffled Houston's batters and Anthony Rendon drove in five runs to power the Washington Nationals over the Astros 7-2 Tuesday, forcing a one-game winner-take-all showdown for the 115th World Series championship.

Washington pulled level at 3-3 in Major League Baseball's best-of-seven final, setting up a seventh game Wednesday to decide the title.

Strasburg allowed two runs on five hits over 8 1/3 masterful innings while walking two and striking out seven Houston batters, improving to 5-0 in the playoffs after an 18-6 season.

"Big pitchers do what he did," said Nationals manager Dave Martinez. "I told him, 'You were tremendous. You picked us up and because of you, we're going to game seven'," added Martinez, who was ejected late on after a disputed call.

Washington's Juan Soto and Adam Eaton blasted solo home runs in the fifth inning and Houston native Rendon hit a two-run homer in the seventh and a two-run double in the ninth.

"Rendon stepped up big," Martinez said.

That was enough run production for the Nationals thanks to Strasburg mystifying the Houston hitters who had produced 19 runs over the prior three games.

"I saw an incredible pitcher," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said. "He was really good. We didn't put a lot of stress on him."

Strasburg had been tipping his pitches to Houston hitters in the first inning when Alex Bregman homered off him, but Martinez solved the problem.

"I said, 'You're tipping you're pitching. We need to fix it,'" Martinez said. "After that, he was lights out."

Strasburg began to wiggle his glove to throw the Astros off.

"Started shaking my glove so they didn't know what I was throwing. Obviously, they look for certain things," Strasburg said. "It's something that has burned me in the past and they burned me there in the first.

"It's just a part of the game. You've got to do your best to stay consistent in your delivery on each pitch."

Martinez became the first World Series manager ejected since Atlanta's Bobby Cox in 1996, needing to be restrained from angrily confronting umpires after a controversial call in the seventh inning.

"I'm not going to criticize the umpires about anything," Martinez said. "I don't really want to make this about me and take away from what the boys did. It was a judgement call. I don't want to make it about one play."

The Nationals, who improved to 4-0 in playoff elimination games this month, will start three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer in game seven after neck spasms kept him out of game five. Fellow right-hander Zack Greinke will start for Houston.

"We have a great opportunity to play a game seven in the World Series in our ballpark," Hinch said.

But a World Series in which Houston was one of the heaviest favorites in years has turned into a historical epic, the first World Series with road teams winning the first six games.

"It's weird," Martinez said. "You can't explain it."

The Astros will try for their second title in three seasons while the Nationals seek the first crown in their franchise's 50-year history.

It would also be the first World Series title for Washington since 1924.

Houston's Justin Verlander, who won a season-best 21 games, surrendered three runs on five hits to suffer the loss and remain winless in seven career World Series starts, the most of any pitcher without a win. His 0-6 record is the all-time worst World Series mark.

Washington clung to a 3-2 lead in the seventh when controversy struck.

Nationals shortstop Trea Turner was called out for interference on first baseman Yuli Gurriel and the decision was upheld after a 4 1/2-minute video review. It would cost Washington a run when Rendon smashed a homer to left field.

After the inning, Martinez angrily moved toward the umpires, bench coach Chip Hale restraining him. But Martinez yelled until home plate umpire Sam Holbrook ejected him, leaving Hale to take the team to the finish.

Rendon's two-run homer put Washington ahead 5-2 and his two-run double in the ninth added more insurance runs.

Stephen Strasburg baffled Houston's batters and Anthony Rendon drove in five runs to power the Washington Nationals over the Astros 7-2 Tuesday, forcing a one-game winner-take-all showdown for the 115th World Series championship.

Stephen Strasburg baffled Houston's batters and Anthony Rendon drove in five runs to power the Washington Nationals over the Astros 7-2 Tuesday, forcing a one-game winner-take-all showdown for the 115th World Series championship. Washington pulled level at 3-3 in Major League Baseball's best-of-seven final, setting up a seventh game Wednesday to decide the title. Strasburg allowed two runs on five hits over 8 1/3 masterful innings while walking two and striking out seven Houston batters, improving to 5-0 in the playoffs after an 18-6 season. "Big pitchers do what he did," said Nationals manager Dave Martinez. "I told him, 'You were tremendous. You picked us up and because of you, we're going to game seven'," added Martinez, who was ejected late on after a disputed call. Washington's Juan Soto and Adam Eaton blasted solo home runs in the fifth inning and Houston native Rendon hit a two-run homer in the seventh and a two-run double in the ninth. "Rendon stepped up big," Martinez said. That was enough run production for the Nationals thanks to Strasburg mystifying the Houston hitters who had produced 19 runs over the prior three games. "I saw an incredible pitcher," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said. "He was really good. We didn't put a lot of stress on him." Strasburg had been tipping his pitches to Houston hitters in the first inning when Alex Bregman homered off him, but Martinez solved the problem. "I said, 'You're tipping you're pitching. We need to fix it,'" Martinez said. "After that, he was lights out." Strasburg began to wiggle his glove to throw the Astros off. "Started shaking my glove so they didn't know what I was throwing. Obviously, they look for certain things," Strasburg said. "It's something that has burned me in the past and they burned me there in the first. "It's just a part of the game. You've got to do your best to stay consistent in your delivery on each pitch." Martinez became the first World Series manager ejected since Atlanta's Bobby Cox in 1996, needing to be restrained from angrily confronting umpires after a controversial call in the seventh inning. "I'm not going to criticize the umpires about anything," Martinez said. "I don't really want to make this about me and take away from what the boys did. It was a judgement call. I don't want to make it about one play." The Nationals, who improved to 4-0 in playoff elimination games this month, will start three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer in game seven after neck spasms kept him out of game five. Fellow right-hander Zack Greinke will start for Houston. "We have a great opportunity to play a game seven in the World Series in our ballpark," Hinch said. But a World Series in which Houston was one of the heaviest favorites in years has turned into a historical epic, the first World Series with road teams winning the first six games. "It's weird," Martinez said. "You can't explain it." The Astros will try for their second title in three seasons while the Nationals seek the first crown in their franchise's 50-year history. It would also be the first World Series title for Washington since 1924. Houston's Justin Verlander, who won a season-best 21 games, surrendered three runs on five hits to suffer the loss and remain winless in seven career World Series starts, the most of any pitcher without a win. His 0-6 record is the all-time worst World Series mark. Washington clung to a 3-2 lead in the seventh when controversy struck. Nationals shortstop Trea Turner was called out for interference on first baseman Yuli Gurriel and the decision was upheld after a 4 1/2-minute video review. It would cost Washington a run when Rendon smashed a homer to left field. After the inning, Martinez angrily moved toward the umpires, bench coach Chip Hale restraining him. But Martinez yelled until home plate umpire Sam Holbrook ejected him, leaving Hale to take the team to the finish. Rendon's two-run homer put Washington ahead 5-2 and his two-run double in the ninth added more insurance runs.

US baseball: Nationals beat Astros to force World Series showdown

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