Melky Cabrera
Dominican Republic's Juan Francisco (34) strikes out during a baseball game against the United States at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021, in Yokohama, Japan. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Olympic baseball a cross between Double-A and Old-Timers Day

By Ronald Blum Aug. 06, 2021 05:51 AM EDT

Team United States celebrate their win against Israel after a baseball game at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Friday, July 30, 2021, in Yokohama, Japan. The United States won 8-1. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
US prospects, released players beat Israel 8-1 in Olympics

By Ronald Blum Jul. 30, 2021 02:00 AM EDT

FILE - In this July 20, 2018, file photo, New York Mets' Yoenis Cespedes stretches before a baseball game against the New York Yankees in New York. When baseball comes back next month, Cespedes might finally be ready to return, too. Sidelined for nearly two years by injuries and then the coronavirus pandemic, the Mets slugger could be healthy enough at last to play on opening day in late July — especially with the designated hitter available in the National League this season. General manager Brodie Van Wagenen said Monday, June 29, 2020, the team is optimistic about Céspedes. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson, File)
Mets optimistic about Céspedes when baseball returns

By Mike Fitzpatrick Jun. 29, 2020 09:48 PM EDT