Good morning, Mets fans!

The Washington Nationals have unexpectedly canceled Stephen Strasburg‘s retirement press conference, according to sources reported by Britt Ghiroli of The Athletic. Initially, the plan was to hold the press conference to honor Strasburg and retire his number. However, the Nationals have now altered their approach. It was the team that approached Strasburg about retirement and offered to pay his full contract, but sources with knowledge of the situation indicate that the team now seeks to renegotiate the terms of the deal.

The Mets, meanwhile, begin a three-game series against the Twins Friday at 8:10 p.m. ET.

Now onto the morning briefing!

Latest Mets News

The MLB.com starting pitcher power rankings were released and reflect recent performance, with some new faces making significant moves. Mets pitcher Kodai Senga is now ranked fifth, having previously been unranked.

Cohen Private Ventures, led by New York Mets owner Steven A. Cohen, has acquired the rights to a TGL (The Golf League) team representing New York. This addition makes New York the fourth city to have a TGL team, joining Los Angeles, Boston, and Atlanta in the inaugural season of the league, which is set to launch in January. Two more teams will be announced in the coming weeks.

Latest MLB News

In a conversation with Taylor Ward, conducted by Sam Blum of The Athletic, Ward discussed the harrowing experience of being struck by a 92 MPH sinker in the face. He shared details about the moment of impact and the challenging aftermath. Importantly, Ward expressed his confidence that he will return to his previous hitting form despite the incident.

Andy McCullough, a writer for The Athletic, has spent the past two years working on a book centered around Clayton Kershaw. The book, titled “THE LAST OF HIS KIND,” delves into the themes of the weight of greatness, personal evolution without sacrificing one’s identity, and Kershaw’s unique position in the contemporary era of baseball. Preorders for the book are available.

The MLB Players Alumni Association faced off against the Savannah Bananas at Grayson Stadium. The MLBPAA team, consisting of former players aged 35 and over, displayed a playful spirit before the game. They aimed to win the final game of a series against the Harlem Globetrotters. Newcomers Eric Sogard and Dee Strange-Gordon joined the MLBPAA for added talent. Curtis Granderson managed the team but didn’t play. The event provided a unique, fan-focused, and lighthearted experience for former players.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have announced several roster moves. They’ve selected infielder Jordan Lawlar from Triple-A Reno and recalled right-handed pitcher Ryne Nelson from Reno. Catcher Seby Zavala has reported to the team and is now active. Following Thursday’s game, catcher Jose Herrera and right-handed pitcher Bryce Jarvis have been optioned to Reno. Additionally, the Diamondbacks have designated shortstop Nick Ahmed for assignment.

Rangers outfielder Adolis García is set to hit the injured list due to a patellar tendon strain, as reported by Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. In his place, Evan Carter will be added to the roster.

Latest on MMO

Michael Mayer takes a look at the players involved in the Mets deadline deals and what each side’s players have done since their respective trades.

Joander Suarez throws a no-hitter for Double-A Binghamton, we take a look into his performance.

José Butto shines in latest appearance for the Mets against the Nationals.

On This Date in Mets History

1979: In a marathon 15-inning game that took place on this date in 1979, the New York Mets secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. Notably, the game’s turning point occurred in the bottom of the sixth inning when Ed Kranepool hit a home run off Bert Blyleven, marking the 118th and final home run of Kranepool’s illustrious career. A Mets veteran since 1962, Kranepool retired at the conclusion of the 1979 season, holding the record for the team’s all-time leader in home runs, a record that would later be surpassed by Dave Kingman just three years later.

Birthdays: Bobby Parnell (39), Don Aase (69)