Brewers' McCutchen has big day of firsts
The Brewers' Andrew McCutchen got the first hit of the season Thursday, up against the still-dormant ivy at Wrigley Field. He delivered as a National League designated hitter. Wearing a Roberto Clemente No. 21 patch, too.
A little later on opening day, the Cubs' Nico Hoerner hit the first home run of 2022. He connected off a pitcher who used an electronic wristband to receive his signals from the catcher.
Soon after that, in another yard, the Cleveland Guardians — formerly the Indians — took the field for the first time.
New season, and definitely a new look all across Major League Baseball.
Meanwhile, in Atlanta, the Braves celebrated their World Series championship with a pregame parade, and games at Yankee Stadium and Target Field were rained out.
As part of the MLB labor deal, the NL has permanently adopted the DH — the AL began using it in 1973.
Winners of the Roberto Clemente Award will wear his No. 21 on the back of their caps for the rest of their major league careers. MLB made the announcement Thursday, saying it was a “special tribute to his enduring legacy.” The announcement was timed for the 50th anniversary of the year in which Clemente died in a plane crash while on a humanitarian relief effort.
LET'S MAKE A DEAL >> The Twins acquired righthanders Chris Paddack (7-7 with a 5.07 ERA in 22 starts last year) and Emilio Pagán (67 relief appearances last season, going 4-3 with a 4.83 ERA) from the Padres for All-Star reliever Taylor Rogers (2-4 with a 3.35 ERA and a 13.17 strikeout-per-9.0 innings pitched last year) and outfielder Brent Rooker. The Twins also will receive a player to be named and the Padres will get $6.6 million in cash.
• The Guardians traded oft-injured outfielder Bradley Zimmer to the Blue Jays for reliever Anthony Castro.
SHOW 'EM THE MONEY >> All-Star closer Ryan Pressly (career-best 2.25 ERA in 64 appearances, career-high 26 saves in 28 chances last year) signed a $30 million, two-year contract to stay with the Astros. The deal covers the 2023-24 seasons and has a vesting option for 2025.
• The Pirates are building around third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes, who agreed on a new eight-year, $70 million deal pending the 25-year-old passing a physical.
• The Guardians gave a $20 million, fiveyear contract with Emmanuel Clase, ensuring one of their breakout stars will be closing games for the foreseeable future.