Seattle Mariners' Julio Rodr铆guez hands the trident to Brendan Donovan (33) after his solo home run against the Cleveland Guardians during an opening-day baseball game, Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Seattle.
Boston Red Sox designated hitter Willson Contreras, center, and teammates celebrate his home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Boston.
Load management isn't just for pitchers. Three regulars didn't play in Wednesday's lackluster loss, and the Cardinals manager welcomed a chance to explore why.
Emboldened by how well their protective schedule worked last year for starters, the Cardinals are again exploring the introduction of a sixth starter to the first long stretch of games.
What should have been a stroll to a victory Tuesday became adventurous when Ryne Stanek walked three, loaded the bases and Cardinals had to survive for 5-3 win.
As baseball's walk rate has ballooned, the Cardinals have increased theirs at an even greater rate. A look at how it's powering their offense …
Seattle Mariners' Julio Rodr铆guez hands the trident to Brendan Donovan (33) after his solo home run against the Cleveland Guardians during an opening-day baseball game, Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Seattle.
Boston Red Sox designated hitter Willson Contreras, center, and teammates celebrate his home run during the first inning of a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Boston.