Did you know that a total of 39 people have been officially banned from all MLB teams during the course of Major League Baseball history? The League has existed since 1875 and has undergone many changes over the years. Here are three recent updates to MLB history that might surprise you.
1. A. Rod Rejects MLB Offer
MLB’s suspension of Alex Rodriguez back on August 5th for the use of performance enhancing drugs made many of the top sports headlines. The most recent update to this story is that, during his appeal of his 211 game suspension, MLB offered a deal to Rodriguez where the confidentiality clause of the case would be waived, which would allow him to speak freely in his defense. Rodriguez’s lawyer announced they were rejecting the deal, and that it was only a trap, since it would also allow MLB permission to discuss the case and allegations publicly.
2. Important MLB Statistics
According to Bleacher Report, there are five key stats that will determine the outcome of the MLB playoff standings this year. These MLB statistics indicate which teams are likely to perform the best. The Red Socks are coming in strong, having already collected 19 home runs. The Cincinnati Reds feature strong pitching, having a collective 80.1% stand rate in September. Billy Hamilton, who has yet to officially go to bat, is playing pinch runner for the Cincinnati Reds. So far, he’s swiped four out of four bags. Oakley Athletics are coming in with a league best of 2.45 FIP, an incredible number. The Tampa Bay Rays have swung at the fewest number of pitches, at 25.3%. Their patience might easily pay off.
3. Trouble with Yankees Pitchers
One of the most well known teams in baseball, if not always the most loved, the Yankees have been facing several issues this year. The Yankee’s captain, Derek Jeter, didn’t get in the lineup against the Red Socks and is likely to miss several more games. He has already been on the disabled list three times this season. He has had issues with calf strain, quad strain, and recovering from his ankle surgery, which was causing the main problems this week.
What MLB rumours have you heard lately? Let us know in the comments