MLB Update: Stat Leaders, Pirates' PR Still Sinking, WBC Pool Drops

Stat Leaders so Far

As of April 9, 2025, the MLB season is already showcasing impressive performances and stat leaders:​

Home Run Leaders

Player	Team	Home Runs
Aaron Judge	New York Yankees	6
Tyler Soderstrom	Athletics	6
Eugnio Suarez	Arizona D-backs	5

ERA Leaders

Player	Team	ERA
Spencer Schwellenbach	Atlanta Braves	0.00
Kris Bubic	Kansas City Royals	0.71
Chris Bassitt	Toronto Blue Jays	0.71

Top 3 Team Records

Team	Record
San Diego Padres	9-3
San Francisco Giants	8-3
New York Mets	8-3

The Dodgers' strong start (9-4) is also particularly noteworthy, as they became the first defending World Series champions to begin a season 8-0.

Pirates' Public Relations Errors Continue

The Pittsburgh Pirates are facing criticism AGAIN for recent decisions concerning fan tributes at PNC Park:​

• Removal of 'Bucco Bricks': Fans are expressing disappointment after the removal of personalized "Bucco Bricks" during sidewalk renovations around PNC Park. These bricks, inscribed with personal messages, held sentimental value for many supporters. The Pirates stated they are exploring options to appropriately display the bricks and preserve their messages.

• Roberto Clemente Tribute Controversy: Earlier this month, the team replaced a mural of Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente with an alcohol advertisement, leading to backlash from fans and Clemente's family. Roberto Clemente Jr. voiced his disappointment over the lack of communication regarding the change. The Pirates have since apologized and pledged to restore the tribute.

Two strikes in two weeks isn’t exactly a winning PR stat line.

2026 World Baseball Classic: Pools and Schedule Announced

Excitement builds as the pools and schedule for the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) have been announced:​

• Pool A: Hiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan, Puerto Rico (March 6-11, 2026)

  • Teams: Puerto Rico, Canada, Cuba, Panama, Qualifier Winner

• Pool B: Minute Maid Park, Houston, Texas (March 6-11, 2026)​

  • Teams: USA, Mexico, Great Britain, Italy, Qualifier Winner​

• Pool C: Tokyo Dome, Tokyo, Japan (March 5-10, 2026)

  • Teams: Japan, Australia, Czechia, Korea, Qualifier Winner​

• Pool D: loan Depot Park, Miami, Florida (March 6-11, 2026)

  • Teams: Dominican Republic, Israel, Netherlands, Venezuela, Qualifier Winner​

The quarterfinals will take place on March 13-14, with the championship round in Miami from March 15-17, culminating in the title game on March 17

Pregame Buzz: Bar Crawls Bring the Heat

Whether it’s a playoff game or a random Wednesday, Pregame Sports pub crawls are the real MVP for fans who love good vibes with their baseball. From drink specials to party games at the best sports bars, the camaraderie hits different when the bases are loaded and your crew is loaded… with wings and whiskey.