One National League All-Star right-hander is getting the biggest contract ever for a Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher, while another is facing a setback before the start of the season for the New York Mets.
The Pittsburgh Pirates and Mitch Keller have reached a new $77 million, five-year contract, replacing a previous one-year agreement. Keller, a 27-year-old right-hander, is expected to make his second consecutive opening day start for the Pirates after a successful 2023 season where he was a first-time All-Star.
On the other hand, Mets right-hander Kodai Senga is dealing with a shoulder strain that will likely force him to miss the beginning of the season. An MRI revealed a moderate strain in the back of Senga's right shoulder, prompting the Mets to shut him down until he fully recovers.
Meanwhile, the late San Diego Padres owner Peter Seidler was honored with a moment of silence before the team's first spring training game. The Padres will wear a memorial patch on their jerseys throughout the season to pay tribute to Seidler.
In spring training action, the Los Angeles Dodgers showcased their offensive prowess by scoring eight runs in the first inning against the Padres. Notable performances included a two-run double by Teoscar Hernández and a two-run homer by Kevin Padlo.
Former Red Sox player Alex Verdugo, now with the New York Yankees, expressed no hard feelings towards his former manager Alex Cora despite being benched twice last season. Verdugo praised Cora's managerial skills and emphasized his positive personal relationship with him.
Lastly, Hyun Jin Ryu, a veteran pitcher with 10 seasons in the major leagues, has signed an eight-year contract with the Hanwha Eagles in the Korean Baseball Organization. Ryu, known for his successful stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays, will return to South Korea as the league's most expensive player.
