Mark Marquess, Who Made Stanford a Baseball Powerhouse, Dies at 78
Over 41 seasons as head coach, he won two national titles and sent more than 200 players to the major leagues, including Mike Mussina and Jack McDowell.
Baseball
9th February 2026
Astros, Cardinals, Red Sox discussed trade involving Isaac Paredes, Brendan Donovan: Sources
The Astros coveted Donovan, who ended up going to the team that broke Houston's streak of AL West titles.
NBC hires Kershaw, Rizzo, Votto as MLB analysts
Clayton Kershaw, Anthony Rizzo and Joey Votto have been hired as analysts by NBC when it returns to broadcasting Major League Baseball this season.
8th February 2026
Lakers look to model team after champion Dodgers
The Lakers are working with the Dodgers in the hopes of modeling the team's practices and structure after the back-to-back World Series champions.
O's beat Akin in arbitration in first win for clubs
The Orioles won their salary arbitration case against pitcher Keegan Akin, the first victory for teams this year after five decisions in favor of players.
Former MLB speedster Terrance Gore dies at 34
Terrance Gore, a dynamic baserunner whose speed impacted postseason games for the better part of a decade, has died at age 34.
Terrance Gore embraced his role to become a 3-time World Series champion
For Royals fans, Gore represents a connection to an era where the team made consecutive World Series and won a championship.
Terrance Gore, former MLB speedster and 3-time World Series champion, dies at 34
Terrance Gore, who played in two World Series with the Kansas City Royals (and was a member of their 2015 championship team), has died at the age of 34. The Royals announced the news Saturday. Gore played eight MLB seasons, five of them with Kansas City.
Former Athletics first baseman Mark McGwire returns to the franchise as special assistant to player development
. Dylan Buell via Getty ImagesFormer Athletics first baseman Mark McGwire is returning to the franchise as a special assistant to player development. McGwire spent 12 seasons with the Athletics from 1986-97. McGwire got off to a fast start with the Athletics.
Are sports cards in another 'junk wax era'? What the numbers tell us
There are growing concerns among collectors around rising print runs, but how do they compare to the most overprinted era?.
7th February 2026
Dodgers DFA reliever Banda, pick up Rortvedt
The Dodgers designated reliever Anthony Banda for assignment on Friday after the left-hander won two consecutive World Series rings with the team.
McGwire back with A's, this time as special asst.
Former slugger Mark McGwire is back with his first organization, rejoining the Athletics as a special assistant to player development.
Sources: Goldschmidt, Yanks finalizing 1-year deal
First baseman Paul Goldschmidt is finalizing a one-year contract to return to the Yankees, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan on Friday.
MLB free agency: Paul Goldschmidt reportedly returns to Yankees on 1-year deal
Jim McIsaac via Getty ImagesPaul Goldschmidt is headed back to the Bronx. The veteran first baseman is finalizing a one-year contract to return to the New York Yankees, according to the New York Post's Joel Sherman.
Yankees agree with Paul Goldschmidt on 1-year deal: Source
Goldschmidt, 38, posted a 169 wRC+ against lefties, but only a 74 wRC+ against righties with the Yankees in 2025.
Angels finalize 1-year deal with vet lefty Suter
Left-hander Brent Suter and the Los Angeles Angels finalized a $1.25 million, one-year contract on Friday.
Ex-Blue Jays C, broadcaster Martinez retiring
Former MLB catcher Buck Martinez, 77, is retiring as a Blue Jays broadcaster after more than 4,000 games dating back to 1987.
Ashcraft, Uceta add to player arbitration wins
Pitchers Graham Ashcraft and Edwin Uceta won their salary arbitration cases Friday, improving players to 5-0 this year.
Ex-MLB player Puig found guilty in gambling probe
A jury has found ex-major league outfielder Yasiel Puig guilty of obstruction of justice and lying to federal officials, the U.S. Attorney's Office said Friday.
NL East offseason grades: How much did the Mets, Braves and Phillies improve this winter?
When pitchers and catchers begin reporting on Feb. 10, it will mark the official start of spring training and the unofficial end of the MLB offseason.
Grading the NL East's offseason: How much did the Mets, Braves and Phillies improve this winter?
When pitchers and catchers begin reporting on Feb. 10, it will mark the official start of spring training and the unofficial end of the MLB offseason.
Former MLB star Yasiel Puig found guilty of obstruction of justice, false statements
A jury found the former Dodgers star guilty of lying to federal investigators about his knowledge of an illegal gambling operation.
An intradivision swap? Houston making moves? MLB trade proposals that could shake up the start of spring training
Who has too many players at one position? Who has a big hole to fill? We found the biggest and propose deals to fix the imbalances.
World Baseball Classic roster takeaways: Team USA's elite pitching, Puerto Rico's missing stars, Team Brazil's return and more
We are less than a month away from the start of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, and the excitement has been ramped up with Thursday’s announcement of the rosters for the 20 teams participating in this year’s tournament.
Longtime Blue Jays broadcaster Buck Martinez announces retirement
Longtime Toronto Blue Jays broadcaster Buck Martinez announced his retirement Friday. Martinez, 77, began as a color analyst for the team in 1987 after his 17-year playing career ended.
6th February 2026
New York Mets 2026 top 20 prospects: Nolan McLean, Carson Benge lead the way
The Mets have built a solid farm system through excellent drafting and solid player development, especially of their pitchers.
Philadelphia Phillies 2026 top 20 prospects: Aidan Miller, Andrew Painter lead the way
The Phillies' system is pretty top-heavy at the moment, but they have several potential breakout candidates at the lower levels.
Washington Nationals 2026 top 20 prospects: Eli Willits, Gavin Fien lead the way
The Nationals have a lot of talent at the top of their list, but some underperformed last year and are in need of bounce-back seasons.
Miami Marlins 2026 top 20 prospects: Aiva Arquette, Thomas White lead the way
The Marlins system has a lot of players who project to some big-league value, but it's very light on impact players.
Atlanta 2026 top 20 prospects: Cam Caminiti, JR Ritchie lead the way
Atlanta moves its pitchers aggressively, and pitching, not surprisingly, is well represented on this list.
World Baseball Classic 2026: Here's all 78 MLB All-Stars in the tournament
Thursday saw the arrival of all 20 rosters set to compete in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. As expected, the United States was the most star-studded, with a handful of other teams possessing the talent usually needed to make a deep run.
World Baseball Classic 2026: Tigers' Javier Báez ineligible to play for Puerto Rico due to positive marijuana test
Detroit Tigers All-Star Javier Báez has been ruled ineligible to play for Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after testing positive for marijuana during the 2023 tournament, The Athletic's Cody Stavenhagen reports.
Team USA's roster is stacked, and Puerto Rico's run is ending: WBC roster takeaways
Plus, why the Dominican Republic could make a run to the championship on the back of its strong roster.
Judge, Ohtani highlight star-studded WBC rosters
Seventy-eight All-Stars and 190 major leaguers dotted the rosters for the 20-team World Baseball Classic when they were fully unveiled on Thursday.
Tigers' Javier Báez suspended from 2026 WBC for marijuana usage: Source
Báez, who has a Puerto Rican flag tattooed on one of his arms, played for Team Puerto Rico in both 2017 and 2023.
Guardians' Emmanuel Clase accused of manipulating pitches in 48 different games as wire fraud trial looms
The allegations against Emmanuel Clase appear to stretch much further than previously known. A court filing has revealed that the Cleveland Guardians closer is accused of manipulating pitches in 48 different MLB games over the span of two years, according to ESPN's David Purdum.
The Tigers and MLB picked a fight with Tarik Skubal. Now they’re paying for it
Skubal brought his Cy Young Awards to his hearing — just as Tim Lincecum did years ago. But the pitcher did not need the props to win.
Doc: Clase accused of rigged pitches in 48 games
Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase is accused of throwing suspect pitches to benefit bettors in at least 48 games over two years, significantly more than was initially revealed by prosecutors, according to a court document.
The Tarik Skubal-Tigers saga comes to amicable end, and now they'll chase a title together
Tarik Skubal won his arbitration hearing, and the Tigers signed Framber Valdez. All's well that ends well? Especially if it ends in a title.
Initial bids in Padres' sale process expected near end of February: Sources
An eventual sale of the Padres has been widely expected since Peter Seidler’s death in November 2023.
What's next for Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers after landmark arbitration hearing?
If there’s one thing you should always expect the best pitcher in the world to do, it’s win. And for Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, his win Thursday was arguably the biggest one he has earned in his career.
Spring training roster battles: From the Red Sox's infield to the Mets' rotation, these contenders have positions to sort out before Opening Day
While most MLB teams spend the offseason attempting to address the most glaring needs on their rosters, many still arrive at spring training with a few unsettled spots.
Reports: RHP Urquidy, Pirates reach 1-year deal
Pitcher Jose Urquidy and the Pirates agreed Thursday to a one-year, $1.5 million contract, according to multiple reports.
O's acquire Alexander from D-backs for 3 players
The Orioles have acquired utility player Blaze Alexander in a trade with the Diamondbacks, who will receive Kade Strowd and two minor leaguers in return.
Tarik Skubal awarded $32 million in landmark arbitration victory
Skubal’s case could serve as a landmark victory for players in a time of greater labor uncertainty.
Sources: Skubal wins arbitration, to make $32M
Two-time reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal won his arbitration case over the Tigers and will make $32 million this year, sources told ESPN, giving the ace $13 million more than Detroit offered.
Tarik Skubal reportedly wins arbitration case vs. Tigers, will earn arbitration-record $32 million in 2026
A three-person independent arbitration panel has awarded Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal a $32 million contract for the 2026 MLB season, ESPN's Jeff Passan reported Thursday. It is a one-year deal for Skubal, 29, and he will be eligible for unrestricted free agency next offseason.
Framber Valdez's big payday. Plus: How Brendan Donovan became a Mariner
Welcome to The Windup, The Athletic's MLB newsletter.
MLB players strike deal to be AI characters
Major League Baseball players have agreed to let a tech company create AI characters of themselves that can chat and interact with fans.
5th February 2026
Olney and Passan's MLB offseason lessons -- and what they mean for baseball's future
From more outrage over MLB's top spenders to what to make of deals that never happened, here's what we learned this winter.
Minnesota Twins 2026 top 20 prospects: Walker Jenkins, Emmanuel Rodriguez lead the way
Injuries had a significant impact on the Twins system in 2025, but there are still plenty of players with significant upside on their list.
Kansas City Royals 2026 top 20 prospects: Carter Jensen, Blake Mitchell lead the way
The Royals' list is solid now and could get significantly better soon as their younger prospects come into their own.
Detroit Tigers 2026 top 20 prospects: Kevin McGonigle, Max Clark lead the way
The Tigers' system is extremely top heavy, but the players at the top of the system have star ceilings.
Cleveland Guardians 2026 top 20 prospects: Angel Genao, Travis Bazzana lead the way
The Guardians still have a top-five farm system thanks to a balance of promising position players and pitchers.
Chicago White Sox 2026 top 20 prospects: Braden Montgomery, Caleb Bonemer lead the way
The White Sox have a top-10 system thanks to their last two drafts and multiple trades of veterans for prospects.
By adding Framber Valdez, Tigers show they're in it to win it in Tarik Skubal's walk year
While waiting to learn the results of their arbitration case against Skubal, the Tigers added the best free-agent pitcher on the market.
The best MLB free agent available at every position a week ahead of Spring Training
With pitchers and catchers reporting soon, there are enough free agents still out there to build a strong rotation and a decent lineup.
Dodgers reportedly expected to return to White House after World Series win
SAUL LOEB via Getty ImagesThe Los Angeles Dodgers are indeed headed back to the White House after their second straight World Series win.
Sources: Padres, OF Andujar agree to 1-year deal
Miguel Andujar and the San Diego Padres agreed Wednesday to a $4 million, one-year contract, sources confirmed to ESPN's Jeff Passan on Wednesday.
Framber Valdez's signing could be the statement move the Tigers needed
Signing Valdez marks the biggest free-agent deal of Scott Harris' tenure as Tigers president of baseball operations.
Dodgers expected to visit White House to celebrate World Series win: Source
The Dodgers have previously visited the White House in 2021 with President Joe Biden and last April with President Donald J. Trump.
Detroit Tigers finally make a splash by signing Framber Valdez for $115 million
Finally, finally, finally, the Detroit Tigers put their money where their ace is. On the same day that they argued against superstar hurler Tarik Skubal in the most divergent arbitration hearing in MLB history, the club made its most significant signing of the decade.
Sources: Tigers land Valdez for 3 years, $115M
Framber Valdez and the Tigers are in agreement on a three-year, $115 million contract, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan, the highest average annual value ever for a left-handed pitcher.
Tigers, Framber Valdez agree to three-year, $115 million deal: Sources
At his best, Valdez is an ace, a man nicknamed "La Grasa" for the designer clothes and colognes he wears between starts.
Framber Valdez reportedly agrees to 3-year, $115 million deal with Tigers
One of baseball's most consistent and durable pitchers has his first big free-agent contract. Framber Valdez reportedly agreed to a three-year, $115 million deal with the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.
Sources: Red Sox add Kiner-Falefa on 1-year deal
Veteran utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa and the Red Sox are in agreement on a one-year contract, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan on Wednesday.
Ex-D-backs slugger, Gold Glover Peralta retires
David Peralta, who hit .278 in an 11-year big league career that included nine seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks, announced his retirement on Wednesday.
Pirates, RHP Clevinger agree to minor league deal
Right-hander Mike Clevinger agreed Wednesday to a minor league contract with the Pirates and will attend big league spring training camp.
Mancini to Angels as comeback attempt continues
Cancer survivor Trey Mancini is taking another shot at a major league comeback after agreeing to a minor league contract with the Angels.
Skubal, Tigers begin arbitration, wait for ruling
Tarik Skubal, who is seeking $32M, and the Tigers, who are offering $19M, made their cases in salary arbitration, with a decision expected Thursday.
Mickey Lolich, Detroit’s Hero of the 1968 World Series, Dies at 85
Pitching for the Tigers, he notched three complete-game victories in defeating the St. Louis Cardinals for the championship, earning the Series’ M.V.P. honors.
Mickey Lolich, Tigers great and 1968 World Series MVP, dies at 85
Lolich leaves a legacy as one of the best left-handers in MLB history.
Lolich, '68 World Series hero for Tigers, dies at 85
Mickey Lolich, who pitched three complete-game victories to help the Detroit Tigers win the 1968 World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, died Wednesday at the age of 85.
Mickey Lolich, 1968 World Series MVP with Tigers, dies at 85
Gregory Shamus via Getty ImagesMickey Lolich, the left-handed pitcher who helped the Detroit Tigers become World Series champions in 1968, has died at the age of 85."The Tigers are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mickey Lolich and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones," the Tigers said in a statement.
Pirates emerge as aggressive suitor for Framber Valdez: Sources
Thwarted in various attempts to find additional offense, the Bucs would enhance their biggest strength — their rotation — by adding Valdez.
4th February 2026
Ranking the top 10 prospects in all 30 MLB farm systems
Who is rising in every major league farm system? Kiley McDaniel digs in.
St. Louis Cardinals 2026 top 20 prospects: JJ Wetherholt, Liam Doyle lead the way
The Cardinals' system has already made great strides under their new player development regime, though injuries dinged them some in 2025.
Pittsburgh Pirates 2026 top 20 prospects: Konnor Griffin, Bubba Chandler lead the way
The Pirates' system is on the rise and currently boasts MLB's top overall prospect and MLB's top pitching prospect.
Milwaukee Brewers 2026 top 20 prospects: Jesús Made, Luis Peña lead the way
The Brewers have the top-ranked farm system, and they feature high-upside prospects on both sides of the ball.
Cincinnati Reds 2026 top 20 prospects: Sal Stewart, Tyson Lewis lead the way
The Reds' system has been excellent at producing pitching for the past decade, but now the system is slanted more towards hitters.
Chicago Cubs 2026 top 20 prospects: Kevin Alcántara, Moisés Ballesteros lead the way
Trades and graduations have thinned the Cubs' system, leaving them without a lot of depth and very hitter-heavy.
In Southern California, copper thieves putting Little League seasons in jeopardy
Copper prices are rising due to various reasons, and thieves are targeting Little League fields for the valuable metal.
What we're hearing in MLB: The Cardinals' offseason, the Pirates' interest in Marcell Ozuna and more
Plus Boston's search for a right-handed hitter, and a positional request for Ty France.
A season-ending error changed Orion Kerkering. Now, he's embracing the challenges ahead
He looks different now. He's in better shape, the result of a diligent winter. He sounds different. He is clear-eyed about what lies ahead.
After fight for control of Padres, late owner's widow and brothers reach agreement
The family feud over control of the San Diego Padres appears to be over, according to a court filing on Monday.
As Yasiel Puig trial wraps up, a prominent agent could face contempt charges
Baseball agent Danny Horwits is being ordered to testify in the federal government’s criminal trial against Puig.
Paredes, Astros agree to 1-year, $9.35M deal
All-Star infielder Isaac Paredes avoided a salary arbitration hearing by agreeing to a $9.35 million, one-year contract with the Houston Astros.
Sources: Diamondbacks, Santana reach $2M deal
Free agent first baseman Carlos Santana and the Diamondbacks have agreed to a one-year, $2 million contract, sources told ESPN.
Dodgers bring back OF Siani, reassign Ibanez
The Dodgers claimed outfielder Mike Siani off waivers from the Yankees and designated infielder Andy Ibáñez for assignment on Tuesday.
It’s official: Carlos Beltrán will represent the Mets in Cooperstown
Beltrán played seven seasons with both the Royals and Mets, but appeared in 44 more games with New York.
DeSantis, Manfred support Rays' Tampa stadium
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and commissioner Rob Manfred on Tuesday voiced support for a proposed new stadium for the Rays in Tampa, but few specifics were offered, including cost or timeline.
Bradish beats O's for $3.55M in arbitration case
Starting pitcher Kyle Bradish defeated the Orioles in the first salary arbitration decision this year and will earn $3.55 million next season.
HOF announces cap picks for Beltrán, Jones, Kent
The Baseball Hall of Fame on Tuesday announced its decisions on cap picks for incoming inductees Carlos Beltrán (Mets), Andruw Jones (Braves) and Jeff Kent (Giants).
Examining What the Giants Are Doing, Mariners Bring in a Key Bat & Explaining World Baseball Classic Insurance
Subscribe to Baseball Bar-B-CastApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeThe San Francisco Giants signed Luis Arráez to a one-year deal, with the hope that the three-time batting champion will be able to help solidify their offense after their blockbuster deal that brought Rafael Devers to the Bay last season.
Ohtani, Judge and more as comic characters: Rare 'Alter Egos' baseball cards in high demand
A new set of Topps insert cards has been an instant hit with collectors. The artist behind them gives us a look at how they came to be.
Mariners front office completes Donovan trade while visiting state capitol
The team was being honored by the Washington state senate when Jerry Dipoto and Justin Hollander received a group text from Chaim Bloom.
Draft guide: Rankings, tips, strategy, stats and more
All the rankings, projections, cheat sheets, strategy and analysis you need for the fantasy baseball season.
3rd February 2026
2026 predictions for MLB's top prospects
Which young players will do big things on the diamond in the year ahead? Our experts weigh in.
Seattle Mariners 2026 top 20 prospects: Colt Emerson, Ryan Sloan lead the way
The Mariners have a strong system with a number of elite talents at the top of their ranking but it thins out quickly toward the middle.
Houston Astros 2026 top 20 prospects: Brice Matthews, Ethan Pecko lead the way
The Astros have dipped heavily into their farm system to trade for pieces to remain playoff contenders and the cupboard is a bit bare now.
