The Cy Young award winners were announced by Major League Baseball Wednesday. Toronto Blue Jays ace Robbie Ray was named the winner in the American League while Milwaukee Brewers starter Corbin Burnes was named the winner in the National League.
The Houston Astros have apparently agreed to a one-year contract with right-hander Justin Verlander. The deal is reportedly for 25-million-dollars with a player option for a second season. Verlander missed all of last season as he recovered from surgery to repair an ulnar collateral ligament. The 38-year-old last pitched a full season in 2019 when he was named the AL Cy Young Award winner.
The San Francisco Giants are retaining the services of their first baseman for next season. Brandon Belt accepted the 18.4 million dollar qualifying offer on Wednesday. Belt was the lone free agent to accept the offer, with the other 13 who were offered it from their former clubs turning down the one-year deal.
One of the best players in Seattle Mariners history will be recognized next summer. Ichiro Suzuki will be inducted into the Mariners Hall of Fame on August 27th. Suzuki had an incredible run in Seattle, winning MVP and AL Rookie of the Year in 2001, won two batting titles and made 10 All-Star games and a won 10 Gold Glove awards.
The Cleveland Indians are officially changing their nickname to the Guardians on Friday. The team announced the news Wednesday, a day after they settled a lawsuit with the Cleveland Guardians roller derby team that allows them to change their name without any foreseeable legal ramifications.