MLB Notes: Matt Harvey misses team workout
Matt Harvey missed the New York Mets’ mandatory workout Tuesday at Citi Field and apologized to the team for arriving late.
The pitcher did not give a reason for his absence and did not take questions.
Manager Terry Collins told reporters Harvey called and said he got stuck in traffic.
New York opens its playoff series against the Dodgers on Friday night in Los Angeles. Harvey is scheduled to start Game 3 at Citi Field on Monday.
There was no word from the Mets about whether Harvey might be disciplined.
Kershaw opens; Puig ‘rusty’
The Dodgers announced their rotation for the first three games of the best-of-five series Tuesday after the team held a workout.
Clayon Kershaw (16-7) will oppose Jacob deGrom of the Mets in Friday’s playoff opener at Dodger Stadium. Zack Greinke (19-3) will go in Game 2 on Saturday against rookie right-hander Noah Syndergaard.
Yasiel Puig is still “rusty” as he works his way back from a hamstring injury and the Dodgers are still evaluating whether he will be on their playoff roster.
Ryan has hopes for Mauer
Twins general manager Terry Ryan says he believes Joe Mauer can return to .300 hitting after one of the worst offensive seasons of his career. He says Mauer will remain the first baseman going into the 2016 season after Mauer hit a career-worst .265 and struck out a career-high 112 times.
Mauer won three A.L. batting titles as a catcher, but injuries have contributed to his struggles the last two seasons. He hit .277 in 2014.
Marlins Jennings back GM
The Marlins say Dan Jennings is returning to his former job as general manager after moving to the dugout as manager this season.
Team president David Samson said the search for a new manager has begun. Candidates include former major league managers Manny Acta, Larry Bowa and Bo Porter.
Ichiro re-signs
Ichiro Suzuki has signed a one-year contract to remain with the Miami Marlins and try to reach the 3,000-hit milestone in the majors.
Suzuki, who turns 42 on Oct. 22, is tied for 33rd on the hits list with 2,935. He had 91 in 153 games for the Marlins this year but batted a career-low .229, dropping his career average to .314.
Marlins to reconfigure walls
The Miami Marlins have decided to alter their outfield wall and give hitters a better chance to homer in the spacious ballpark.
The Marlins still want a park that favors pitchers, Samson said. But the wall will be lowered and perhaps moved closer to home plate for the 2016 season.