Why Did They Stop Celebrating Walk-Off Wins at Home Plate?
Walk-off wins used to be celebrated at home plate with the player who scored. At some point, without explanation, the emphasis flipped to the batter.
Wander Franco Placed on Administrative Leave by MLB
In an agreement between the league and the players’ union, Wander Franco will be out “until further notice” as an investigation continues.
Wander Franco Sits Out of Rays Game Amid Investigation
The Rays said Major League Baseball was investigating social media posts about Wander Franco, but his manager said it was “just a day off.”
Tampa Bay Rays Stay Steady at Trading Deadline
A red-hot start followed by a brutal July knocked Tampa Bay out of first place, but the Rays believe they are back on track.
How a Loss to the Guardians Inspired the Rays’ Power Surge
Tampa Bay’s outrageous season has been fueled by home runs. Cleveland barely hits any. Both teams follow the numbers and emphasize what they do well.
The Miami Heat Might Blow a 3-0 Series Lead
No N.B.A. team has lost a best-of-seven playoff series after winning the first three games, but the Heat are one loss from being the first.
MLB’s New Rules Have Baseball in Overdrive
Players are stealing more bases, more balls are falling for hits and games are nearly 30 minutes faster than they were last year. Like them or not, the rules are accomplishing their goals.
What We Learned Through a Quarter of the M.L.B. Season
The Mets have struggled (but may be fine), stolen bases are cool again (but runners, beware), and it’s too early to judge (most of) the off-season’s free-agent signings.
Shane McClanahan of Tampa Bay Rays Dominates With Four Pitches
Shane McClanahan of the Tampa Bay Rays started last season’s All-Star Game and is 7-0. His mastery of four elite pitches can make things seem “impossible.”