MLB Player News

Kang was originally looking at a three-year suspension for his three DUI arrests when he recently asked to be taken off the KBO’s retirement list. It turns out he’ll be able to return sooner, but the suspension only begins once he actually signs with a team. Kang turned 33 in April and batted just .169/.222/.395 over 185 plate appearances with the Pirates last year before being given his release. His former team, the Nexen Heroes, still hold his rights in the KBO and Kang will need permission from them in order to sign with another team.

The 30-year-old slugger is slashing a ghastly .208/.242/.362 on the season, so taking a couple of days off to retool his swing isn’t the worst idea in the world. Justin Foscue will start in his place at first base and will bat ninth for the Rangers against Jameson Taillon and the Cubs.

Benintendi was scratched from Saturday’s lineup due to stiffness in his neck. The 31-year-old outfielder is considered day-to-day. Once again, Randal Grichuk will start in his place as the White Sox’ designated hitter and will bat eighth against Mariners’ right-hander Logan Gilbert.

Aranda started against each of the other four southpaws that the Rays faced this week, but he’ll grab a seat on the bench for Sunday’s series finale against Payton Tolle. Ryan Vilade will start in his place at first base and will bat fifth for the Rays on Sunday afternoon at Fenway Park.

Funderburk has done a decent job through his first 19 appearances with the Twins this season, posting a 2.81 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and a 10/13 K/BB ratio over 16 innings of work. The walks are becoming a real problem though, which may be what the Twins want him to work on at the Triple-A level. Kendry Rojas was recalled in a corresponding move to take his place in the team’s bullpen.

Once again Rojas will get an opportunity to add a fresh arm to the Twins’ bullpen. The 23-year-old southpaw has made just one appearance at the big league level this season, working a pair of scoreless innings. Kody Funderburk was optioned to Triple-A in a corresponding move on Sunday.

The Jays continue to ease Springer back into action after dealing with a fractured left big toe. If you’re going to have to take an occasional breather, doing so against tough Angels’ right-hander Jose Soriano isn’t the worst idea in the world. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will serve as the club’s designated hitter in his stead while Lenyn Sosa draws a start at first base and will bat seventh for the Jays.

Harper was lifted from Saturday’s game in the first inning due to a migraine, but he’s feeling much improved and ready to get right back out there. The 33-year-old slugger will start at first base and bat third against Rockies’ right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano on Sunday afternoon in Philadelphia.

Bailey was acquired in a stunning deal from the Giants on Sunday. While he isn’t much with the bat, the 26-year-old is widely regarded as one of the top defensive catchers in baseball and he should have an immediate impact on the Guardians’ pitching staff.

Lowe has been swinging a hot bat for the Reds, slashing .273/.333/.636 with six homers and 11 RBI over 60 plate appearances in his last 16 games. He’ll get a breather in this one though. Sal Stewart will serve as the team’s designated hitter while Spencer Steer covers first base and Ke’Bryan Hayes draws a start at the hot corner.

It looks like a routine day off for the 25-year-old infielder. Norby has had a rough time overall at the dish this season, slashing .233/.343/.379 with three homers, 12 RBI and four swipes through his first 137 plate appearances. Christopher Morel will serve as the Marlins’ designated hitter and will bat sixth against Cade Cavalli and the Nationals on Sunday afternoon in Miami.