Cowtipper

Johnny O'Brien died. https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seattle-university/johnny-obrien-a-seattle-u-legend-and-ex-mlb-player-dies-at-94/ Who was Johnny O'Brien? Johnny O'Brien was a versatile Major League Baseball player who played both as a second baseman and a pitcher, most notably for the Pittsburgh Pirates between 1953 and 1959. Born in South Amboy, New Jersey, in 1930, he was the twin brother of Eddie O'Brien, with whom he shared a unique sports journey—from starring in both basketball and baseball at Seattle University to becoming the first twins to play on the same MLB team in the same game. Drafted by the NBA's Milwaukee Hawks, they chose baseball instead. Johnny had a standout year at the plate in 1955, hitting .299, and also pitched intermittently, though less effectively. After his playing days, he served in public office in Washington State and held various roles in broadcasting and the energy industry. He was inducted into his high school’s sports hall of fame and remained connected to athletics throughout his life. He died in 2025 at the age of 94, outliving his brother by over a decade. His grandson, Riley O'Brien, is also a professional pitcher.

Vermillion must be red with anger at how he's been treated.

Sean Manaea sent on a rehab assignment to Brooklyn. Who gets the axe when he comes back? Might be a great opportunity to trade Megill for some offensive support. They traded cash for Justin Garza. They signed Julian Merryweather.

Verle Tiefenthaler died. https://www.dahnandwoodhouse.com/obituary/verle-tiefenthaler Who was Verle Tiefenthaler? Verle Matthew Tiefenthaler (July 11, 1937 – May 28, 2025) was a right-handed pitcher who briefly played Major League Baseball for the Chicago White Sox in 1962. A native of Carroll, Iowa, Tiefenthaler was signed by the New York Giants in 1955 and spent seven years in the minors before being sent to Chicago as part of the trade that brought Billy Pierce to San Francisco. He made his MLB debut on August 19, 1962, in a relief appearance against the Detroit Tigers, during which he infamously surrendered a grand slam to Bill Bruton. He pitched in just three games for the White Sox, compiling a 0–0 record, a 9.82 ERA, and one strikeout across 3⅔ innings. After one final season in Triple-A in 1963, he retired from professional baseball. Tiefenthaler was also notable for rooming with future Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry while playing for the Tacoma Giants. He passed away in his hometown of Carroll, Iowa, in 2025 at the age of 87.

Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) struck out three batters and allowed two earned runs on two hits and two walks over three innings Thursday for High-A Brooklyn in his second rehab start. Montas, who is working his way back from a high-grade lat strain, tossed 49 pitches (28 strikes) Thursday and is expected to require at least two more appearances in the minors before becoming an option for the New York rotation around the middle of June. The 32-year-old is scheduled to make his third minor-league appearance Tuesday, this time moving up to Triple-A Syracuse after his prior two outings came with Brooklyn. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/23/2025. Brooks Raley: Raley (elbow) recently resumed facing hitters in live batting practice, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. Raley has missed the entirety of the 2025 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery with an internal brace augmentation, which he underwent last May. The left-hander seems to be nearing the finish line in his rehab program and could be ready to pitch in minor-league rehab games by the end of the month. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/1/2025. Yacksel Rios: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 6/11/2025. Jose Siri: Siri (tibia) doesn't appear to be close to returning from the injured list, Tim Britton of the Athletic reports. The outfielder still hasn't worked up to 100 percent in his running progression, and until he does his return timeline will remain murky. Siri hasn't played since April 12 after fracturing his left tibia, but he did begin taking live batting practice last week. Injury Lower Leg. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Mark Vientos: Vientos was diagnosed with a low-grade strain in his right hamstring Wednesday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. Now that the team has determined the severity of Vientos' injury, the plan is for him to rest and receive treatment for 10-14 days before returning to baseball activities. The 25-year-old had been splitting reps between third base and designated hitter before getting injured, and his absence has allowed the Mets to take a closer look at top prospect Ronny Mauricio. Injury Hamstring. Est. Return 6/27/2025. Jett Williams: Williams avoided a concussion after being hit in the helmet by a pitch Friday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. Williams was hit by a fastball that was traveling 98 mph. He will miss a few days but is expected to be back in Double-A Binghamton's lineup quickly. Injury Head. Day-to-day.

Remember, Vasil struggled at Triple-A in 2023 and 2024 and is now tearing it up at the big league level (though unfortunately not for us).

Rotowire has Raley's ETA at 7/1.

Sean Reid-Foley found a new home in the Diamondbacks chain. Billy McKinney found a new home in the Rangers chain. Not sure if it was noted here, but Jose Urena was signed away by the Blue Jays. Mets signed a youngster named Anderson Ozuna.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) is expected to come off the 15-day injured list to start against the Dodgers on Monday, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. Blackburn is in the final stages of his recovery from right knee inflammation, which caused him to land on the 15-day IL at the start of the season. He's posted a 3.68 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 31:13 K:BB across 29.1 minor-league innings during his rehab assignment. It's unclear whether Blackburn will have a consistent role in the Mets' rotation after Monday's start. Injury Knee. Est. Return 6/2/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) will face hitters again before beginning a rehab assignment in early June, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. The lefty threw 20 pitches during a live batting practice session Thursday and another 15 pitches in the bullpen. Manaea has been sidelined since reporting to spring training, so he will need a lengthy rehab assignment before joining the big-league rotation. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 7/4/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) is scheduled to make a rehab start with High-A Brooklyn on Thursday, Manny Gomez of NJ.com reports. The right-hander covered 1.1 frames in his first rehab start with Brooklyn over the weekend, and he's set to build up to 30-to-35 pitches Thursday. Montas has been sidelined since mid-February due to the lat strain, so he'll likely require at least a couple more rehab outings after Thursday before making his 2025 debut for the Mets. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/13/2025.

Big news! Mets appointed Lewis Sherr president of baseball operations. They also signed David Villar, who's been in the big leagues for four years yet somehow evaded my radar this whole time. Jose Azocar elected free agency and was quickly scooped up by the Braves. I have a feeling this is going to be like Adeiny Hechavarria—in 2019 Hechavarria hit .204 with the Mets, who released him partway through the year, then he went on to hit .328 for Atlanta the rest of the way. Genesis Cabrera also elected free agency and he was quickly scooped up by the Cubs.

Horace Speed died. Who was Horace Speed? https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=speedho01 Horace Arthur Speed III, born October 4, 1951, in Los Angeles, California, was a former Major League Baseball outfielder who played parts of three seasons in the majors with the San Francisco Giants and Cleveland Indians. Drafted by the Giants in the third round of the 1969 MLB Draft, Speed made his big-league debut in 1975 as a pinch runner. He later signed with the Indians in 1977 and had his most active season in 1978, appearing in 70 games primarily as a fifth outfielder. Known for his speed, he stole 35 bases for the Phoenix Giants in 1977 and spent parts of six seasons at the AAA level, including stints with the Tacoma Tugs, Richmond Braves, and Savannah Braves. His final major league appearance came in 1979 as a pinch runner. Scott Klingenbeck died. Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League WWW.FACEBOOK.COM The #GLSCL mourns the passing of alumni and former big leaguer Scott Klingenbeck. "Klinger" played for the Cincinnati Spirit before spending parts of 4 seasons in MLB. Two of his nephews Kyle and... Who was Scott Klingenbeck? Scott Edward Klingenbeck (February 3, 1971 – May 20, 2025) was a Major League Baseball pitcher who played parts of four seasons with the Baltimore Orioles, Minnesota Twins, and Cincinnati Reds. A Cincinnati native, he starred at Oak Hills High School before pitching at Allegany College of Maryland and Ohio State University, where he posted two standout seasons. Drafted three times, he eventually signed with the Orioles in 1992 after being selected in the fifth round. He made his MLB debut in 1994 with a win over the Detroit Tigers and had his most active stretch with the Twins between 1995 and 1996. In 1997, he joined the Reds organization, briefly returning to the majors in 1998. Afterward, he pitched in the Pirates’ and Reds’ Triple-A systems before retiring. Outside of baseball, he owned a now-closed sports bar in Cincinnati and had a nephew who also pitched in college. Klingenbeck passed away on May 20, 2025. Rod Nichols died. https://helenafuneralhome.com/obituaries/rodney-l-nichols-age-60-of-helena/ Who was Rod Nichols? Rodney Lea Nichols (December 29, 1964 – May 14, 2025) was a Major League Baseball pitcher who played from 1988 to 1995 with the Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves. A native of Burlington, Iowa, and a standout at the University of New Mexico, Nichols was selected in the fifth round of the 1985 draft by the Indians. He also played one season in Japan with the Fukuoka Daiei Hawks in 1997. After his playing career, he became a respected pitching coach, working across several minor league teams and later serving as the Philadelphia Phillies’ bullpen coach from 2013 to 2015. He concluded his coaching career with the Iowa Cubs, retiring in 2019. Nichols was inducted into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame and was the father of minor leaguer Chris Nichols. He passed away in 2025.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) is expected to make one more rehab start Tuesday with Triple-A Syracuse before making his season debut for the Mets the following Monday against the Dodgers, Tim Britton of the Athletic reports. The 31-year-old right-hander has been sharp over three starts for Syracuse, posting a 2.63 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 13:6 K:BB through 13.2 innings, but the Mets have delayed activating Blackburn from the IL until they had a need in the rotation. That need arrives this weekend, when the team plays 10 straight games without an off day beginning May 30. It's not clear if New York will stick with a six-man rotation after that stretch, or if Blackburn will then shift into a long relief role. Injury Knee. Est. Return 6/3/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) will throw live batting practice Thursday, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. Manaea will face hitters for the first time since being placed on the 15-day injured list Feb. 24 due to a strained left oblique. The next step in his recovery will be a rehab assignment, though he may throw multiple live sessions before heading out. While he'll likely need several rehab appearances before being activated, Manaea is on track to make his 2025 MLB in early July. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 7/4/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) said Friday he's beginning a rehab assignment at High-A Brooklyn and will make a start Saturday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. Montas suffered a high-grade right lat strain in February and faced hitters for the first time May 16. He's now been cleared to begin what's expected to be a somewhat lengthy rehab assignment. Per Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record, Montas will throw 30-to-35 pitches Saturday. The 32-year-old logged a 4.84 ERA across 150.2 regular-season innings in 2024. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/23/2025. Rafael Ortega: Injury Undisclosed. Est. Return 5/30/2025. Jose Siri: Siri (tibia) is scheduled to hit live batting practice against Sean Manaea on Thursday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. Siri is recovering from a fractured left tibia and has been ahead of schedule in his rehab. Per Albanese, Siri is still limited to running in a straight line, but he's set to hit live pitching for the first time since sustaining the injury. He's on track to return in early to mid-June. Injury Lower Leg. Est. Return 6/7/2025.

They also sent Genesis Cabrera down so Brandon can Waddell his way up from Syracuse. Frankie Montas was sent on a rehab assignment to Syracuse.

So the Mets promoted Jared Young and demoted Jose Azocar, apparently.

27 1/3 innings in and he still has a 1.98 ERA.

Mets release Billy McKinney.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) is expected to make two more rehab starts before being activated from the 15-day injured list, Joe Pantorno of AMNY.com reports. Blackburn reached 60 pitches in his last rehab outing with Triple-A Syracuse on Sunday and is aiming for the 75-pitch mark Friday with Double-A Binghamton. He's expected to make an additional rehab start after that. There doesn't appear to currently be room for Blackburn in the Mets' rotation, so he could be slotted into long relief when he's activated later this month. Blackburn has been out all season with right knee inflammation. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/26/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) is slated to throw another bullpen session Tuesday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. Manaea resumed a throwing program in mid-April following a PRP injection and has progressed to throwing from the bump again. He shouldn't be far off from facing hitters and eventually going out on a rehab assignment, but no target date for either has been revealed by the Mets yet. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) will throw a live batting practice session Friday, Laura Albanese of Newsday reports. It appears to be the first time Montas will face hitters since he went down with a high-grade right lat strain in mid-February. The right-hander would appear close to a rehab assignment if all goes well, and the Mets have previously pegged early June as a possible return for Montas. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/1/2025. Jose Siri: Siri is progressing more quickly than expected in his recovery from a fractured tibia and has already resumed baseball activities, Tim Britton of the Athletic reports. The Mets don't have a set date for Siri to begin a rehab assignment, but the 29-year-old outfielder was able to do some light jogging Monday and could beat the estimated 8-to-10-week timeline he was originally given for his return when he suffered the injury in mid-April. In his absence, Tyrone Taylor has received the bulk of the starts in center field, with Jeff McNeil also getting some occasional opportunities at the position. Injury Lower Leg. Est. Return 6/7/2025. Drew Smith: Smith (elbow) has been playing catch from 120 feet up to three times per week and threw 10 pitches from halfway up the mound earlier this week, Joe Pantorno of AMNY.com reports. Coming back from his second Tommy John surgery, Smith hopes to throw from the top of the bump in 2-to-3 weeks. The goal for the reliever is to begin a rehab assignment later this summer and return to the Mets before the end of the season, although he might not make it back until 2026. The Mets re-signed Smith in February to a one-year deal with a club option for next season. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 9/1/2025.

Ronny Mauricio activated and sent to Syracuse. Mets trade cash for a pitcher named Jose Castillo, who is now on the big league roster. Dedniel Nunez optioned to Syracuse. Kevin Herget DFA'd.

Jack Curtis died. https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/hickoryrecord/name/jack-curtis-obituary?id=58399268 Who was Jack Curtis? Jack Patrick Curtis (January 11, 1937 – May 12, 2025) was an American professional baseball player and left-handed pitcher who appeared in 69 Major League Baseball games between 1961 and 1963. A native of Rhodhiss, North Carolina, Curtis was known for his gritty performances and early promise, particularly during his standout minor league years. Curtis signed with the Chicago Cubs in 1955 after graduating from Granite Falls High School. He broke out in the minors, winning 20 games for the Wenatchee Chiefs in 1959 and earning Texas League Pitcher of the Year honors in 1960 with the San Antonio Missions. That same year, he led the league in complete games and went 19–8. He made his MLB debut with the Cubs in 1961, finishing third in National League Rookie of the Year voting behind Billy Williams and Joe Torre. That season, Curtis went 10–13 with a 4.89 ERA and six complete games, also serving as a batting practice pitcher in the All-Star Game. In 1962, Curtis was traded to the Milwaukee Braves for veteran Bob Buhl. He recorded his only career save on June 25, 1962, and finished the year with a 4–4 record. After another trade, he spent the beginning of 1963 with the Cleveland Indians, appearing briefly before being sent to Triple-A. He continued in the minors until 1967, finishing with a combined 14–19 MLB record and 4.84 ERA, along with 97 minor league wins. After retiring from baseball, Curtis worked in the private sector and later spent 25 years as a production manager for a manufacturing company. He was inducted into the Caldwell County Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his achievements. Jack Curtis passed away on May 12, 2025, at the age of 88. With the passing of Curtis, just 32 Milwaukee Braves players remain: Sandy Alomar, born October 19, 1943 Felipe Alou, born May 12, 1935 Ken Aspromonte, born September 22, 1931 Howie Bedell, born September 29, 1935 Wade Blasingame, born November 22, 1943 Clay Carroll, born May 2, 1941 Ty Cline, born June 15, 1939 Chuck Cottier, born January 18, 1936 Billy Cowan, born August 28, 1938 Ray Crone, born August 7, 1931 John DeMerit, born January 8, 1936 John Edelman, born July 27, 1935 Dave Eilers, born December 3, 1936 Hank Fischer, born January 11, 1940 Terry Fox, born July 31, 1935 Frank Funk, born August 30, 1935 Len Gabrielson, born February 14, 1940 Eddie Haas, born May 26, 1935 Bob Hendley, born April 30, 1939 Lou Klimchock, born October 15, 1939 Joe Morgan, born November 19, 1930 Johnny O'Brien, born December 11, 1930 Taylor Phillips, born June 18, 1933 Claude Raymond, born May 7, 1937 Phil Roof, born March 5, 1941 Amado Samuel, born December 6, 1938 Dan Schneider, born August 29, 1942 Bill Southworth, born November 10, 1945 Al Spangler, born July 8, 1933 Joe Torre, born July 18, 1940 Woody Woodward, born September 23, 1942 Mark Esser died. https://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/obituaries/pnys1179781 Who was Mark Esser? Mark Gerald Esser (April 1, 1956 – May 12, 2025) was a left-handed pitcher who had a brief but memorable stint in Major League Baseball, appearing in two games for the Chicago White Sox during the 1979 season. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, Esser moved with his family to Poughkeepsie, New York in 1965. He starred in both baseball and basketball at Roy C. Ketcham High School before choosing to play college baseball at Miami Dade College, turning down an offer from the Baltimore Orioles, who had drafted him in 1975. The White Sox selected Esser in the 8th round of the January 1977 draft, and he quickly rose through the minor leagues. In 1978, he was a key bullpen piece for the Appleton Foxes, posting a 9–2 record with 7 saves, and earning All-Star honors on a championship team that included future MLB pitchers LaMarr Hoyt, Britt Burns, and Ross Baumgarten. Esser made his MLB debut on April 22, 1979, pitching 1.1 scoreless innings against the Cleveland Indians. A week later, he appeared in his second and final big league game against the Texas Rangers, surrendering three earned runs in just one-third of an inning. After returning to Triple-A, he spent the rest of the year with the Iowa Oaks, and was later converted to a starter in 1980. In 1982, Esser’s career peaked again when he combined with Bill Atkinson for a no-hitter with the Glens Falls White Sox, but injuries and inconsistent performance led to his retirement that same year. Over six professional seasons, Esser was recognized as a reliable minor league contributor with flashes of promise at the highest level. Following his playing days, Esser returned to Poughkeepsie and later settled in Florida. He passed away on May 12, 2025, at the age of 69.

Jason Conti died. Kevin Kramer (@iamkevinkramer) • Instagram photo WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM 80 likes, 1 comments - iamkevinkramer on May 17, 2025: "Jason Conti, our friend and teammate, passed away this morning. In this Big East Championship winning picture, he is farthest to the right. He will be remembered as a champion at every level. Rest in peace Jason.". Who was Jason Conti? Stanley Jason Conti (January 27, 1975 – May 16, 2025) was an American professional baseball outfielder known for his strong throwing arm and defensive prowess. A left-handed batter and right-handed thrower, he stood 5'11" and weighed 180 pounds. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Conti played collegiate baseball at the University of Pittsburgh before being drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 32nd round of the 1996 MLB Draft. Conti made his Major League debut on June 29, 2000, with the Diamondbacks and went on to play parts of five MLB seasons with four teams: the Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers. His most productive season came in 2002 with Tampa Bay, where he batted .257 over 78 games. Over his MLB career, Conti played in 182 games, hitting .238 with 6 home runs and 47 runs batted in. Traded multiple times during his career, Conti continued to make an impression in the outfield, famously throwing out baserunners on consecutive nights in highlight-reel plays — including gunning down Brian Jordan at third base while with Arizona and Frank Thomas at home plate while with Tampa Bay. One of his most memorable defensive feats occurred as a Texas Ranger, when he robbed Carlos Beltrán of extra bases by scaling Tal's Hill in center field at Minute Maid Park. After his Major League career, Conti played in the minors and independent leagues, including stints with the Yankees' and Cardinals' Triple-A affiliates. He concluded his playing career internationally with Bologna Italieri in Italy’s Serie 1-A Championship League in 2007. Jason Conti passed away on May 16, 2025, at the age of 50. Rich Rollins died. https://www.wkyc.com/article/life/people/rich-rollins-former-mlb-all-star-parma-senior-kent-state-dies-87/95-3d5dd615-63cd-4792-9505-8b2dfbab611c Who was Rich Rollins? Richard John Rollins (April 16, 1938 – May 13, 2025), known as "Red," was a steady and talented third baseman who spent ten seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Minnesota Twins. A right-handed batter and thrower, Rollins was best known for his breakout 1962 season, his All-Star selections, and his role in the Twins' 1965 American League pennant-winning team. Born in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, Rollins moved to Ohio as a child and attended Parma Senior High School. He excelled at Kent State University, where he played second base and posted a collegiate batting average of .389. Signed by the Washington Senators in 1960, Rollins quickly rose through the minors and debuted for the franchise—by then relocated and renamed the Minnesota Twins—in 1961. Rollins' rookie season in 1962 was his finest, hitting .298 with 16 home runs and 96 RBIs, earning him team MVP honors and selections to both All-Star Games. He finished 8th in AL MVP voting and was praised for his consistency and poise. His nickname, "Pie," was a nod to Hall of Fame third baseman Pie Traynor, a comparison made due to his similar playing style and Pittsburgh roots. Throughout his Twins career, Rollins was a dependable contributor at the plate and an improving defender at third base. In 1964, he led the American League with 10 triples. He appeared in the 1965 World Series, though hitless in three pinch-hit appearances. On June 9, 1966, Rollins was one of five Twins to homer in a single inning—a still-standing MLB record. Injuries and chronic ailments, including a broken jaw, calcium deposits, and knee issues, gradually affected his performance. Left unprotected in the 1968 expansion draft, Rollins was selected by the Seattle Pilots and later played for the Milwaukee Brewers and Cleveland Indians before retiring after the 1970 season. Post-baseball, Rollins worked in the Cleveland Indians’ front office and later in sales for the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers. He also ran baseball camps and was inducted into several halls of fame, including those of Kent State, Summit County, and Greater Akron. Rollins was married to Lynn Maher and had six children. He passed away on May 13, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, at age 87, remembered for his work ethic, quiet leadership, and lasting contributions to the game. With the passing of Rich Rollins, just 25 Seattle Pilots players remain: Jack Aker, born July 13, 1940 Dick Baney, born November 1, 1946 Dick Bates, born October 7, 1945 Gary Bell, born November 17, 1936 Bucky Brandon, born July 8, 1940 Ron Clark, born January 14, 1943 John Donaldson, born May 5, 1943 Bill Edgerton, born August 16, 1941 John Gelnar, born June 25, 1943 Jim Gosger, born November 6, 1942 Larry Haney, born November 19, 1942 Tommy Harper, born October 14, 1940 Steve Hovley, born December 18, 1944 Skip Lockwood, born August 17, 1946 Jerry McNertney, born August 7, 1936 Bob Meyer, born August 4, 1939 John Morris, born August 23, 1941 John O'Donoghue, born October 7, 1939 Garry Roggenburk, born August 16, 1940 Diego Segui, born August 17, 1937 Dick Simpson, born July 28, 1943 Fred Stanley, born August 13, 1947 Gary Timberlake, born August 9, 1948 Steve Whitaker, born May 7, 1943 Dooley Womack, born August 25, 1939

Intriguingly, another James Robert Campbell also died in California in late 2024. This one played in 1962 and 1963. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=campbji01 Who was (the other) Jim Campbell? James Robert Campbell (June 24, 1937 – October 17, 2024) was an American professional baseball catcher who played 82 games in Major League Baseball for the Houston Colt .45s between 1962 and 1963. A right-handed batter and thrower, Campbell stood 6 feet tall and weighed 190 pounds. He was born in Palo Alto, California, and graduated from Palo Alto High School. Campbell began his pro career in 1955 with the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, spending several years in the minors without advancing past Class A. After being briefly loaned to the Chicago White Sox system and then selected by the Milwaukee Braves, he was traded in 1961 to the newly formed Houston Colt .45s, a National League expansion team preparing to debut in 1962. In 1961, he played as the starting catcher for the Houston Buffs, then moved to the Oklahoma City 89ers in 1962 where he excelled, batting .350 in 70 games. This performance earned him a midseason call-up to the Colt .45s, where he started 25 games and hit .221 with 3 home runs. Campbell made the 1963 Opening Day roster and caught the season opener, but after a slow start at the plate, he lost his starting role. His final MLB appearance came on July 23, 1963, when he singled as a pinch hitter. He ended his Major League career with 54 hits, including 7 home runs and 7 doubles. Campbell returned to Triple-A play and remained in the minors through 1965 before retiring from professional baseball. He passed away in Los Altos, California, in 2024 at the age of 87.

Marshall Edwards died. https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2025/05/12/marshall-edwards-who-made-a-famous-brewers-catch-in-1982-dies-at-72/83582942007/ Who was Marshall Edwards? Marshall Lynn Edwards (August 27, 1952 – April 15, 2025) was a professional baseball outfielder best known for his time with the Milwaukee Brewers from 1981 to 1983. A skilled base-stealer and strong defensive player, Edwards was part of a rare trio of Major League brothers—his twin, Mike, and younger brother, Dave, also played professionally. Edwards starred in both baseball and track at Jefferson High School in Los Angeles and continued his athletic career at Los Angeles Community College and UCLA. Despite a record-setting senior season at UCLA, he went undrafted and signed with the Baltimore Orioles in 1974. After excelling in the minors—including leading the Florida State League in steals—he was acquired by the Brewers via the Rule 5 Draft in 1977. He debuted in the majors in 1981 and was a contributor to the Brewers' postseason runs in 1981 and 1982. His most memorable moment came during the 1982 ALCS when he made a critical defensive play to help Milwaukee reach its first World Series. Edwards batted .297 in 1983, his final major league season, before retiring from professional baseball in 1984. Following his baseball career, Edwards worked in real estate and construction, eventually becoming a minister at World Changers Church International in College Park, Georgia. Frank Johnson died. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=johnsfr03 Who was Frank Johnson? Frank Herbert Johnson (July 22, 1942 – May 7, 2025) was a professional baseball player whose Major League career spanned parts of six seasons with the San Francisco Giants from 1966 to 1971. A versatile right-handed hitter and thrower, Johnson played outfield, third base, and first base during a time when the Giants’ roster was rich with talent, including legends like Willie Mays and emerging stars like Bobby Bonds and George Foster. Originally from El Paso, Texas, Johnson stood 6'1" and weighed 155 pounds. He showed early promise in the minor leagues, batting over .290 in four of his first seven seasons. After two brief late-season call-ups, he saw his most consistent big-league action in 1968 and 1970. In the latter year, he hit a career-best .273 with 44 hits and 31 RBIs in 67 games, backing up in the outfield and at first base. Though his MLB stats include a modest .211 batting average, four home runs, and 43 RBIs in 196 total games, Johnson had standout moments in the minors, notably a .353 season in the Pacific Coast League in 1970. He also extended his career internationally, playing for the Lotte Orions in Japan in 1972 before retiring after the 1975 season. Johnson passed away at age 82 in Stockton, California, leaving behind a legacy as a dedicated athlete who played alongside some of the most iconic figures in baseball’s golden era. Also, who was Tommy Helms? Tommy Vann Helms (May 5, 1941 – April 13, 2025) was a gifted American baseball player and manager whose career spanned more than four decades across Major League Baseball (MLB) and its affiliated leagues. Known for his stellar defense and steady presence on the field, Helms made his mark as a second baseman, manager, and mentor. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Helms signed with the Cincinnati Reds in 1959 and climbed steadily through the minor leagues, developing as a reliable infielder. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, he broke into the majors in 1964. Helms earned National League Rookie of the Year honors in 1966, transitioning from shortstop to third base to fill team needs. He later became the Reds' starting second baseman, earning Gold Glove Awards in 1970 and 1971 and All-Star selections in 1967 and 1968. Helms was a key contributor to the Reds' 1970 World Series run, praised for his defense and leadership. In 1971, Helms was part of a pivotal trade to the Houston Astros that brought Joe Morgan to Cincinnati, helping shape the Big Red Machine. Helms continued to perform solidly in Houston before finishing his playing career with stints in Pittsburgh and Boston. Over 14 MLB seasons, he compiled a .269 batting average, struck out just 301 times in nearly 5,000 at-bats, and was long respected for his defensive prowess and baseball IQ. After retirement, Helms transitioned into coaching and management. He served on the Cincinnati Reds’ coaching staff throughout the 1980s and twice took over as interim manager, including during Pete Rose’s 1988 suspension and again after Rose's lifetime ban in 1989. Though Helms hoped for a permanent managerial role, he was passed over in favor of Lou Piniella. He later managed in the minors and independent leagues, including the Charlotte Knights and Atlantic City Surf. Off the field, Helms endured personal tragedy, losing both of his sons—Tommy Jr. and Ryan—in 2014. His nephew, Wes Helms, also played 13 seasons in the majors. Tommy Helms was inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame in 1979 and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2013. A gritty, dependable infielder and respected clubhouse figure, Tommy Helms leaves behind a legacy of quiet excellence and perseverance in the golden era of professional baseball. And who was Chet Lemon? Chester Earl "Chet" Lemon (1955–2025) was a standout American professional baseball player best known for his exceptional defense in center field and a consistent, productive career spanning 16 Major League Baseball seasons. Born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Los Angeles, Lemon was drafted in the first round of the 1972 MLB draft by the Oakland Athletics and later made his MLB debut with the Chicago White Sox in 1975. After six years in Chicago—where he earned two All-Star selections and set an enduring record with 512 outfield putouts in 1977—he was traded to the Detroit Tigers, where he spent the remainder of his career from 1982 to 1990. Lemon was a three-time All-Star (1978, 1979, 1984) and a key member of the 1984 World Series champion Tigers, anchoring center field and providing consistent offensive power. Known for his durability and fearlessness—leading the league in being hit by pitches four times—he logged over 400 outfield putouts in five different seasons, setting an American League record. His peak came during the early to mid-1980s, when he combined elite defense, gap power, and leadership on a dominant Detroit team. Off the field, Lemon was a devout Jehovah’s Witness, which shaped his public stances, including his refusal to stand for the national anthem, citing religious conviction. He faced criticism for this but remained unwavering in his beliefs. Lemon’s career was cut short by polycythemia vera, a rare blood disorder diagnosed in 1990. The condition led to recurring health issues, including strokes that eventually left him unable to speak or walk. Despite these challenges, Lemon remained active in baseball, founding a respected youth academy and mentoring future MLB stars like Zack Greinke and Prince Fielder. Chet Lemon passed away on May 8, 2025, at his home in Apopka, Florida, at age 70. Remembered as one of the finest defensive outfielders of his era and a devoted coach and mentor, his impact on baseball extended far beyond the field.

Mets sign reliever Colin Poche. They also sign a youngster named Henderson Hernandez. Blackburn sent on a rehab assignment to Syracuse. Ronny Mauricio on a rehab assignment to Binghamton.

Paul Blackburn: Blackburn (knee) will continue his rehab assignment Sunday with Triple-A Syracuse, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. Blackburn was scratched from his second rehab start in late April due to an illness, but he's since made two appearances in the minors. The right-hander allowed a run on three hits with a 5:1 K:BB over 3.2 frames in his last outing with Syracuse, and he'll continue building up his workload Sunday. Blackburn was unable to earn a rotation spot during spring training and was poised to begin the campaign in a relief role before the knee inflammation surfaced, so a spot in the bullpen likely awaits once he's cleared to be reinstated. Injury Knee. Est. Return 5/16/2025. Sean Manaea: Manaea (oblique) played catch from 120 feet Friday and is soon expected to start throwing off a mound, Andrew Tredinnick of The Bergen Record reports. The left-hander restarted his throwing program in mid-April after receiving a PRP injection to address lingering problems with his strained right oblique, and he's now starting to ramp up in his progression. Manaea will still require a considerable buildup period and a lengthy rehab assignment, but it seems like he could make his season debut before the end of June. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Frankie Montas: Montas (lat) threw his third bullpen session Tuesday since resuming his throwing program in mid-April, MLB.com reports. After being diagnosed with a high-grade right lat strain in mid-February, Montas was shut down for nearly two months before receiving clearance to start throwing. He steadily increased his throwing distance off flat ground before recently being cleared for mound work, and he's thus far avoided any setbacks through his three bullpen sessions. Montas could soon advance to facing hitters in live batting practice, but he may be a week or more away from starting up a minor-league rehab assignment. The right-hander isn't expected to be ready to return from the 60-day injured list until around early June. Injury Lat. Est. Return 6/1/2025. AJ Minter: Minter will undergo surgery May 12 to repair a torn left lat, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. Minter was moved to the 60-day injured list Thursday, and it's since been disclosed that he's elected for season-ending surgery. The veteran southpaw was off to a strong start to the 2025 campaign, allowing only two runs in 13 appearances. Injury Lat. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Injury Lat. Est. Return 2/1/2026. Jesse Winker: Winker has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 oblique strain and is expected to miss the next 6-to-8 weeks, Abbey Mastracco of the New York Daily News reports. This is unfortunate news for Winker, who was officially placed on the 10-day injured list Monday after suffering a side injury during the first game of Sunday's twin bill against the Cardinals. The injury will open up plenty of opportunities for Starling Marte and Brett Baty in the DH slot. Injury Oblique. Est. Return 6/17/2025. Danny Young: The Mets transferred Young (elbow) from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Sunday. According to Will Sammon of The Athletic, Young is slated to undergo Tommy John surgery in the near future, which will end his season and likely keep him out until the second half of the 2026 campaign. By shifting him to the 60-day IL, the Mets were able to open up a spot on the 40-man roster for right-hander Blade Tidwell, who was called up from Triple-A Syracuse to start the first game of Sunday's doubleheader in St. Louis. Before being shut down in late April with the elbow injury, Young had been a key piece in the New York bullpen, gathering four holds while pitching to a 4.32 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 13:3 K:BB across 8.1 innings in 10 appearances. Injury Elbow. Est. Return 7/1/2026.

I'd give Gilberto Celestino a shot.