Manfred: Rays, A’s need deals

Commissioner Rob Manfred said Thursday the Tampa Bay Rays and Oakland Athletics need to reach new ballpark deals soon and left open the possibility of considering relocation if agreements are not struck.

“There is urgency with respect to Tampa,” Manfred said.

The Rays’ lease at Tropicana Field expires after the 2027 season.

Etc.

MLB approved the sale of a minority stake in the Cleveland Guardians to David Blitzer, who also has ownership shares in the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils . ... New York Yankees righthander Luis Severino was put on the COVID-19 injured list . ... Outfielder Jesse Winker and the Seattle Mariners agreed to a $14.5 million, two-year contract . ... Boston Red Sox left-hander Chris Sale (rib injury) and Mets right-hander Max Scherzer (oblique strain) each threw in simulated games.