Bases Covered is a daily roundup of the most interesting stories in baseball.
Pineda returns to Seattle, defeats his mentor
Yankees starter Michael Pineda faced off against his old mentor and former teammate Felix Hernandez last night. Pineda, pitching in Seattle for the first time since being traded to New York more than three years ago, was spectacular, while King Felix was initially brilliant but had disastrous fourth and fifth innings, which ultimately cost his team the game.
Mariano Rivera III looking more and more like his dad
Although Mariano Rivera III, son of the legendary Yankees closer, was drafted by the Yankees in the 29th round last year, he opted to return to Iona College for his final year. That bet seems to be paying off, with Rivera III looking increasingly skilled—his ERA this year is half what it was last season—as the MLB Draft approaches.
Kershaw impresses at the plate
Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw continues to be the anti–Jon Lester: he’s a pitcher who has no problem getting a hit. In L.A.’s 11–4 victory over Colorado on Monday night, Kershaw contributed three hits. (Oh, and he pitched seven innings, giving up two runs on five hits.)
Gallo to get his call-up
Top Rangers prospect Joey Gallo is expected to get his call-up from double-A Frisco today. The 21-year-old third baseman will make the leap to the Show to take the place of Adrian Beltre, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list as a result of a sprained thumb. GM Jon Daniels says Gallo “has a chance to make a contribution and help us.”
Eldest Molina brother chats about his family’s catching dynasty
Retired MLB catcher Bengie Molina, older brother to José and Yadier, appeared on St. Louis Public Radio to talk about his new book, which tells both his father’s story and that of the three Molina boys, who journeyed from childhood poverty in Puerto Rico to successful careers—including World Series rings for all—in the majors.
