Major League Baseball is early in the process of evaluating a Kevlar liner to caps that would protect pitchers from batted balls and broken bats.
Tuck will return as Red Sox bullpen coach
Another portion of Red Sox manager John Farrell’s coaching staff came into focus Thursday, as general manager Ben Cherington announced that Gary Tuck will return as bullpen coach.
As GMs convene, Luhnow faces many hurdles
If you’re looking for the man confronting the stiffest challenge among the 30 gathering at the Major League General Managers Meetings this week, Jeff Luhnow is a good place to start.
Bray, Valdez outrighted, opt for free agency
Reds reliever Bill Bray and infielder Wilson Valdez on Thursday refused outright assignments and elected to become free agents.
Zito to be honored with annual Hutch Award
Barry Zito already had a pretty impressive year going, but the Giants left-hander topped it off on Thursday with the announcement that he is the winner of the 48th annual Hutch Award that will be presented on Jan. 30 at Safeco Field.
D-backs’ price may prolong Upton chatter
Kevin Towers is looking to upgrade two Major League positions or add a No. 1 pitcher in any deal for Justin Upton, so the D-backs general manager expects a potential trade to take time to develop.
Adrian embraces Dodgers’ community outreach
Adrian Gonzalez not only has been a perfect fit on the field for the Dodgers, who needed more offense at first base, but he might be an even better fit promoting them off the field.
Phillies tab Burris as Triple-A pitching coach
Ray Burris will be the new pitching coach at Triple-A Lehigh Valley and Class A Williamsport manager Andy Tracy has been elevated to Minor League hitting coordinator, general manager Ruben Amaro said on Thursday.
Tino joins Marlins’ staff as hitting coach
Tino Martinez, a four-time World Series winner while with the Yankees, has been named Miami’s hitting coach.
Joba looking forward to incident-free 2013
After completing a season that included rehabbing from both Tommy John surgery and an open ankle dislocation, an injury sustained in a preseason trampoline mishap, Joba Chamberlain hopes he will be able to contribute with much less drama next year.
Weiss has rich history with storied managers
Walt Weiss, the new manager of the Colorado Rockies, had a big league playing career that began and ended by playing for future Hall of Fame managers Tony La Russa and Bobby Cox.
Duquette out to prove 2012 wasn’t a fluke
In his first year as executive vice president of baseball operations with the Orioles, Dan Duquette engineered one of the best turnarounds of the season. The task now at hand is repeating it.
Astros unveil schedule for 2013 Spring Training
The Astros released their 2013 Spring Training schedule Thursday, with the club’s spring opener coming Feb. 23 against the Phillies in Clearwater, Fla.
Padres ready to move forward with two catchers
Barring any additions to the roster — and Yasmani Grandal’s suspension won’t likely mean the team will add a catcher this winter — the Padres will go into the 2013 season with John Baker and Nick Hundley as their catchers.
Wright, Dickey talks ongoing, but nothing close
The General Managers Meetings are upon Mets GM Sandy Alderson, with Thanksgiving and the Winter Meetings to follow. And still, nothing appears close with David Wright or R.A. Dickey. But do not assume the worst, Alderson said Thursday.
Indians sign Hernandez, Rondon to Minor deals
The Indians signed infielder Luis Hernandez and re-signed pitcher Hector Rondon to Minor League contracts. Both were invited to Spring Training.
Rangers acquire lefty reliever Hottovy from Royals
The Rangers have acquired left-handed reliever Tommy Hottovy from the Royals for a player to be named and cash considerations.