It’s the last hump day before Memorial Day, so let’s celebrate by taking a look at some of the latest MLB news and notes. Let’s dive into a bold statement from a Chicago White Sox superstar, a milestone from a heralded Cincinnati Reds prospect, and Gerrit Cole’s big strikeout for the New York Yankees.
Chicago White Sox news: Tim Anderson makes bold statement
Anderson returned from the injured list on May 2 and has slashed just .213/.263/.213 in 80 plate appearances over 17 May games (prior to Tuesday’s action). However, despite the individual struggles and the White Sox entering Tuesday 11 games under .500, Anderson still believes strongly in his own abilities.
“Everyone around knows my work ethic and knows the goals and the focus. I’m nothing but one swing away from setting this on fire,” Anderson told MLB.com for this article. “It’s always having that mentality and playing that game where I might look like trash right now, but at the end of the day, I’m the best player on the field every time I step on the field. I think everybody knows that.”
What Anderson lacks in hits this year, he certainly doesn’t lack in confidence. That may come into focus even more as the trade deadline looms with Anderson as a potential trade candidate.
MLB news: Cincinnati Reds get first home run from Matt McLain
Making his debut on May 15, McLain needed just over a week to record the first home run of his MLB career.
Confirming Matt McLain celebrates Oppo Taco Tuesday. 🌮@mattmclain_ pic.twitter.com/5DbrTAwjvu
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) May 23, 2023
Taking over at shortstop in Cincinnati, McLain has impressed early, slashing .250/.333/.375 through his first 24 at-bats. Now he can add a home run to the list of memorable moments in his first MLB month.
New York Yankees news: Gerrit Cole makes history
Now in his 11th MLB season, Cole etched his name in the record books on Tuesday night in the Bronx against the Baltimore Orioles.
Gerrit Cole records career strikeout 2,000. He is the 3rd fastest in games to reach 2,000. Randy Johnson did it in 262 games and Clayton Kershaw in 277. This is game No. 278 for Cole.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) May 23, 2023
The 32-year-old right-hander is off to a strong start this season, logging a 2.01 ERA/3.00 FIP/1.085 WHIP in his first 10 starts (62.2 innings). He has been a stabilizing force for a Yankees rotation that has been beset by injuries this season.