Pirates Fan 'Making Remarkable Progress' in Recovery After Fall from PNC Park Stands
The Pittsburgh Pirates fan who was critically injured in a fall from the stands at PNC Park on Wednesday is "making remarkable progress" in his recovery, his family said in a statement.
Kavan Markwood, 20, was taken to the hospital in critical condition after falling 21 feet from the right-field wall to the field during the seventh inning of the Pirates' win over the Chicago Cubs.
"I'm incredibly thankful to share that Kav is making remarkable progress: he was extubated this morning, was able to say my name, and even squeezed my hand. These small victories are monumental for us," Kavan's sister Taryn said in a statement shared Saturday by ABC7 Chicago.
Jennifer Phillips, organizer of a GoFundMe page for the family, meanwhile said Kavan was "awake, alert, and able to speak" as of Saturday morning.
"He still has a long road ahead of him, but today brought a moment of hope that we’ve all been holding onto... Please continue to keep him in your thoughts as he begins the next phase of recovery," Phillips wrote.
The Markwood family statement read in full, per ABC7 Chicago:
"Now that I can finally breathe a little easier, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has shown unwavering support during this unimaginable time.
To the first responders who acted swiftly and skillfully-thank you for rushing to my brother Kav's side, stabilizing him, and ensuring he received the urgent medical care he so desperately needed. Your courage and professionalism made all the difference.
To the Pirates and Cubs players, coaches, staff, and all who paused to take a knee in prayer during that tragic moment-your compassion did not go unnoticed. It brought a sense of unity and hope amidst the chaos.
To the incredible team at Allegheny General Hospital-nurses, doctors, EMS personnel, case managers, CNAs, the Critical Care Team, technicians, the ED Team, and so many others-thank you for your tireless efforts, expertise, and care. If I've left anyone out, please know your contribution is deeply appreciated.
To everyone who has generously contributed to the GoFundMe set up for Kav-thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your kindness and generosity mean more than words can convey.
To all who have prayed, sent warm wishes, and offered support-you have carried us through some of our darkest moments. I'm incredibly thankful to share that Kav is making remarkable progress: he was extubated this morning, was able to say my name, and even squeezed my hand. These small victories are monumental for us.
While Kav's journey is far from over, we are hopeful. Your continued prayers and positive thoughts are needed and cherished more than ever.
The outpouring of support from across the country has been truly humbling. From our family to yours-thank you. We feel every prayer, every word of encouragement, and every act of kindness. We are not alone, and for that, we are eternally grateful."
Markwood's fall occurred after a two-run double from Andrew McCutchen. A witness in the stands told Yazmin Rodriguez of Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 that Markwood "jumped out of his seat to celebrate."
He was treated on the field by training staff from the Pirates and Cubs and PNC Park staff before being taken to the Allegheny General Hospital trauma center, according to the Associated Press.
McCutchen posted on social media after the game that he would be praying for Markwood.
"Truly hate what happened tonight... I hope he pulls thru," McCutchen wrote.
Brian Warecki, senior vice president of communications for the Pirates, said an internal investigation had revealed Markwood consumed two beers during the game, the AP's Will Graves reported.
The railing that runs along the right field wall is 36 inches tall, according to Warecki. PNC Park building code requires railings be at least 26 inches tall, Warecki said.
Pittsburgh Public Safety said Thursday that Markwood's fall is being treated as an accident.
Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Jr. Says MRI on Oblique Injury Revealed '3 High-Grade Tears'
New York Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. suffered "three high-grade tears" in his right oblique, according to MLB.com's Bryan Hoch.
The extent of the injury was revealed in an MRI on Thursday, according to Hoch.
The Yankees subsequently placed Chisholm on the injured list retroactive to Wednesday, and manager Aaron Boone told reporters on Friday that Chisholm could miss four to six weeks.
Chisholm suffered the injury during a first-inning at-bat in the Yankees' 15-3 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday. He told reporters on Saturday that the injury feels better than how "it looks on the scan."
"Three. Three different ones," Chisholm said about the tears. "That's why I'm really surprised about where it's at, because it doesn't feel like three. Doesn't even feel like as bad as the first time I tore my oblique two years ago."
Chisholm told reporters he's focused on strengthening and core exercises while recovering from the injury.
"Kind of a day-to-day process, right now, just seeing how it feels every day, see if it just keeps getting better every day like how it has been," Chisholm said.
Chisholm said the four-to-six week recovery timeline is "what we're planning on trying to get to, if not before."
Chisholm said after the game that he felt the injury while swinging at a foul ball on the first pitch he faced during Tuesday's game in Baltimore.
He stayed in the game to hit a triple before he was replaced by a pinch runner and taken out at the recommendation of his coaches, per Hoch.
Chisholm has had an inconsistent start to the season so far, slashing .181/.304/.410 with seven home runs through 30 games.
His move to the IL coincided with the recall of infielder Jorbit Vivas from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Vivas, who made his MLB debut on Friday, will get the chance to "play a lot" in Chisholm's absence, Yankees manager Aaron Boone told reporters on Friday. The infielder is ranked as the No. 19 prospect in the organization by MLB Pipeline.
Hyeseong Kim Called Up by Dodgers, Could Make MLB Debut vs. Braves
Amid a rash of injuries to their pitching staff, the Los Angeles Dodgers will counter by adding to their lineup with Hyeseong Kim joining the roster.
Casey Porter of Dodgers Daily first reported the news of Kim's call-up.
Tommy Edman has been out of the lineup since injuring his ankle during Tuesday's game against the Miami Marlins. He told reporters before Friday's game that his ankle was feeling "much better" and that he could be back in the lineup as soon as Saturday, depending on how his on-field went.
The Dodgers opted to be cautious with Edman, who missed time last season with a sprained ankle suffered during a rehab assignment. His IL stint is retroactive to April 30, meaning he will be eligible to return on May 10.
Kim signed a three-year deal worth $12.5 million guaranteed with the Dodgers in January. The 26-year-old spent the first eight years of his professional career in the KBO playing for the Kiwoom Heroes.
One of Kim's biggest selling points coming to MLB from South Korea was his versatility. He is a high-contact hitter with speed and the ability to play multiple positions. His power has played up more through 28 games in the minors.
Kim is hitting .252/.328/.470 with five homers and 13 stolen bases in 115 at-bats with Oklahoma City. He hit five or more homers in just four of his eight KBO seasons.
The Dodgers gave Kim reps at second base, third base and center field in spring training. Their plan for him will likely come into focus when the lineup card is released for Saturday's game in Atlanta, which starts at 4:15 p.m. ET.
Red Sox's Triston Casas Hospitalized After 'Significant' Knee Injury vs. Twins
Boston Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas was hospitalized on Friday night after suffering a knee injury in a 6-1 win over the Minnesota Twins that was eventually diagnosed as a ruptured left patellar tendon.
Ian Browne of MLB.com relayed the diagnosis on Saturday. Speaking to reporters after Friday's game, Red Sox manager Alex Cora said Casas' injury wass "significant" and that he was transported to the hospital.
The injury occurred in the bottom of the second inning when Casas hit a check-swing roller up the first-base line that Twins pitcher Joe Ryan initially bobbled before delivering an underhand throw to first that wasn't in time for the out.
Casas stretched to reach the bag with his right leg, but it was the left knee that he was clutching after falling to the ground. His left foot/ankle made contact with the leg of Twins first baseman Ty France.
The medical staff loaded Casas on a stretcher to take him off the field.
"It seems like he was in shock, to be honest with you," Cora said of Casas' reaction. "He said right away that he didn't feel [his knee]. It's tough. He worked so hard, and we want him on the field. It was a hustle play, too, and that happened."
Romy Gonzalez replaced Casas in the lineup and at first base for the remainder of the game.
A first-round pick by the Red Sox in 2018, Casas made his MLB debut in September 2022. He finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting in 2023 after hitting .263/.367/.490 with 24 homers in 132 games.
Casas missed nearly four months during the 2024 season due to torn cartilage in his rib. He was off to a slow start this year with a .184/.279/.306 slash line in 28 games.
Red Sox's Walker Buehler Placed on 15-Day IL with Shoulder Injury
The Boston Red Sox placed starting pitcher Walker Buehler on the 15-day injured list with inflammation in his pitching shoulder, manager Alex Cora told reporters on Friday.
"Miss two starts and hopefully be back as soon as the days are over," he said.
"We're working on a few things regarding Walker. We'll see where we're at over the weekend," Cora added. "He hasn't bounced back the way we wanted, so we have to wait."
Buehler, 30, signed a one-year, $21 million deal with the Red Sox this offseason. In six starts he's 4-1 with a 4.28 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 28 strikeouts in 33.2 innings.
He was originally scheduled to start on Friday before being placed on the IL. Brayan Bello (2-0, 3.27 ERA) took his place.
Injuries have been a recurring theme in Buehler's career. He's undergone Tommy John surgery twice, with one of them costing him the entire 2022 season. He returned in May of last year for the Los Angeles Dodgers, making 16 starts, though he finished with a rough 5.38 ERA and 1.55 WHIP.
Starting pitching has been a bit of an issue for the Red Sox this season, outside of a strong campaign from Garrett Crochet to this point. Boston has already given nine different pitchers a start and had finally appeared to be back to full strength, with Lucas Giolito returning this week, only for Buehler to head to the IL.
In his absence, Sean Newcomb—who was moved back to the bullpen upon Giolito's return—could be reinserted into the starting rotation for the next two weeks.
Rockies vs. Giants Betting Odds, Player Props and Picks for May 2
Antonio Senzatela is one of the best pitchers to bet against in Major League Baseball.
The Colorado Rockies right-hander comes into Friday’s matchup against the San Francisco Giants with a 5.22 ERA and seven home runs allowed.
Senzatela’s brutal form on the mound to start 2025 is the perfect sight to see for the Giants after they failed to score more than four runs in each of their last six games.
Antonio Senzatela Over 5.5 Hits Allowed (-110)
The over on Senzatela’s hits allowed feels like a steal.
The 30-year-old right-hander gave up at least nine hits in his three road starts in 2025. He’s allowed at least six hits in every appearance this season.
Senzatela isn’t a strikeout pitcher—he only has 13 punchouts in six starts—and the opponents’ expected batting average against him is .342, per Baseball Savant.
Willy Adames Over 1.5 Total Bases (+105)
There’s a cornucopia of Giants batter props that look juicy because of the matchup against Senzatela.
Willy Adames is 2-for-7 with a homer against the right-handed hurler and he’s had a pair of two-hit performances in his last three games.
Adames is also a better hitter inside his new home ballpark. He has a .236 batting average in San Francisco, which is 23 points better than his away mark.
Most of his success has come against righties. He has a .256 average, 21 hits and both of his home runs off right-handed pitching.
Heliot Ramos Home Run (+700)
Heliot Ramos has done most of his major damage against right-handed pitching.
Four of his five homers have come against righties.
Senzatela has allowed seven home runs in 2025, six of which have come against right-handed bats.
It’s the ideal matchup for Ramos, and the +700 price looks spectacular compared to Matt Chapman at +400 or Adames at +425.
Click into the DraftKings display below for more on this game and the rest of tonight's schedule.
Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Jr. Could Miss 4-6 Weeks with Oblique Injury, Aaron Boone Says
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone revealed that infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. could miss roughly four to six weeks with an oblique injury, per Bryan Hoch of MLB.com.
The Yankees announced Friday that they placed Chisholm on the 10-day injured list with a right oblique strain, retroactive to Wednesday.
Chisholm suffered the injury during the first inning of New York's 15-3 win over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday.
He appeared to be uncomfortable in his first at-bat of the game, holding his side after fouling off the first pitch. Chisholm stayed in and hit a double, but was replaced by a pinch runner on the bases and didn't return.
The 27-year-old wasn't too worried about the oblique issue after the game.
“I’m really not as concerned as everybody else,” Chisholm said, via Hoch. “I feel pretty good. I’ve torn my oblique before, so I know it’s not like torn or anything. I can cough without any pain or anything like that. It’s just to be cautious and not try to overdo it.”
The former All-Star is in the midst of his second year in New York, as the team traded for him in the middle of the 2024 season. Chisholm excelled after the swap, recording 11 home runs and 23 RBIs to go along with an .825 OPS in 46 games following the deal.
He wasn't off to a hot start to open his 2025 campaign, owning a .181/.304/.410 slash line in 30 appearances despite racking up seven homers.
Until Chisholm is able to return, New York could rely on infielder Jorbit Vivas after calling him up on Friday.
Vivas has recorded 30 hits in 26 games with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre during his 2025 campaign.
MLB Says Umpire Strike Zone 'Has Not Changed' Amid Player Complaints of Tighter Calls
Amid a series of complaints from players about the strike zone so far this season, MLB has denied that changes were made to the size of the zone.
In a statement to The Athletic's Jayson Stark, Ken Rosenthal and Eno Sarris, an MLB official explained the zone hasn't changed and umpires haven't been instructed to call balls and strikes differently:
"The rulebook strike zone has not changed and we have not instructed umpires to call a different strike zone. In response to consistent player and club desire to have umpires evaluated more closely to the rulebook strike zone, we agreed with the MLB Umpires Association in their new CBA to reduce the size of the ‘buffer’ around the border of the strike zone, which essentially protects an umpire from being graded ‘incorrect’ on extremely close misses."
The Athletic's report details players' frustrations after MLB negotiated a deal with the Major League Umpires Association to change how home-plate umps are graded and evaluated.
A key change in the deal involved the "buffer zone" that umps are given as part of their evaluation. It had been two inches on all four areas of the zone (both sides, top, and bottom) but is now set at .75 inches.
Los Angeles Angels catcher Travis d'Arnaud told The Athletic that his research found there have been around 250 more close pitches that were called balls so far this year compared to the same point in 2024.
"We pulled the numbers of strikes that were called balls in the first week of the season, this year versus last year," d’Arnaud said. "Last year, there were like 300 or so. This year, (we found) like 550 at the same point in time, with strikes that are called balls."
The MLB official also said that teams were informed of the change when the new umpire collective bargaining agreement was finalized and "overall ball-strike accuracy in 2025 is the highest it has ever been through this point in the season."
Per Baseball Savant, the 12.8 percent rate of pitches in the zone that were called balls during the first month of the 2025 season was the highest rate for the first month of any season since 2017.
Despite MLB's official's insistence that all 30 clubs were informed of the buffer-zone change, The Athletic noted more than two dozen people, including managers, front-office executives and sources with ties to the MLBPA, said they had "no recollection" of any briefing from the league.
All of this is happening as MLB is looking to potentially implement the automated ball-strike system in the 2026 season. The system utilizes a challenge system with a fixed zone.
It was used in 13 ballparks during spring training this year, with a 52.2 percent success rate on the 1,182 calls that were challenged.