Kenta Maeda
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2017Samurai32321312060234.11818561214333.26
2018Samurai252520890126.21207034116154.97
2019Samurai262021570121.0102564911794.17
2020Samurai23151019084.0120833179238.89
2021Samurai303012210140212.11829373223233.94
2022Samurai40000009.110111013510.61
2023Samurai00000000.0000000.00
2024Samurai2020411060132.21034643135163.12
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
May 16 2025The Cubs signed Maeda to a minor-league contract Thursday, Yuki Yamada of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was released by the Tigers last week after allowing eight runs (seven earned) with an 8:6 K:BB over eight innings in a low-leverage relief role. The right-hander is expected to join the Triple-A Iowa rotation and make a start Saturday. Maeda could provide the Cubs with some experienced rotation depth.
May 8 2025The Tigers released Maeda on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda now heads into free agency, and the Tigers will be responsible for what remains of the $10 million he's owed this season. The 37-year-old right-hander posted a 6.21 ERA over 120.1 innings during his two seasons with Detroit.
May 7 2025The Tigers placed Maeda on unconditional release waivers Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After being designated for assignment Thursday, the Tigers will now look to remove Maeda from the organization entirely. The 37-year-old has given up seven earned runs in eight innings this season. It's hard to imagine another team is willing to pay what remains of the $10 million he's owed for that kind of production, so he'll most likely clear waivers and enter free agency.
May 1 2025The Tigers designated Maeda for assignment Thursday, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A move to the bullpen hasn't helped Maeda so far this year, as he's given up seven earned runs in just eight innings. His numbers indicate further regression from the 6.09 ERA and 1.38 WHIP he finished with last season, and his time with the big-league club has officially come to an end. The 37-year-old righty is owed $10 million this in 2025, so he'll almost certainly pass through waivers unclaimed.
Apr 5 2025Maeda allowed three runs on four hits and a walk in an inning of relief during Friday's 7-4 win over the White Sox. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda entered the contest in the eighth inning with the Tigers up 7-1, and he made it through his first frame unscathed. However, the righty struggled mightily in the ninth and was yanked without recording any outs. Maeda has only made two appearances so far this year, but he's allowed five runs already over three innings of work. It's an uninspiring start to his relief role, though he does have time to turn things around.
Mar 21 2025Manager A.J. Hinch announced Friday that Maeda (illness) will begin the season working out of the bullpen, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has been dealing with an illness this week, but there's been no indication it will affect his availability for the start of the season. The right-hander had a 19:1 K:BB across 12.2 innings during spring training, but he served up four home runs and eight earned runs overall. Maeda should serve as a long reliever and potential spot starter when the Tigers deal with rotation injuries.
Mar 15 2025Maeda won't pitch as scheduled in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Phillies due to an illness, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander was set to pitch behind Tigers ace Tarik Skubal but will instead be unavailable due to a stomach ailment. Maeda is competing for the No. 5 spot in Detroit's rotation and should be back on the mound after taking a couple days to recover.
Mar 3 2025Maeda's $10 million contract "likely gives him an edge" to open the season as the Tigers' fifth starter, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda had a disastrous first season in Detroit, finishing with a 6.09 ERA across 17 starts and 12 relief appearances. He has looked sharp this spring, showing an uptick in velocity while allowing three runs with a 9:1 K:BB over five innings. Casey Mize and Keider Montero look to be Maeda's chief competitors for the No. 5 spot, while Jackson Jobe remains the heavy favorite to be the fourth starter. Whoever wins the fifth spot in the rotation would, theoretically, be holding it down only until Alex Cobb (hip) is ready, although there's no timetable for Cobb's return.
Feb 23 2025Maeda tossed two scoreless innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Phillies. He didn't allow a hit or a walk and struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his first spring training appearance, Maeda looked comfortable in a starting role, as he breezed through the first two innings of the game. The veteran righty has displayed increased velocity in camp, and that translated into four strikeouts among the six batters he retired. Maeda struggled mightily in 2024, posting a career-worst 6.09 ERA across 112.1 regular-season innings, but a bounceback campaign is possible in 2025. With Alex Cobb (hip) unlikely to be ready for the start of the season, Maeda may have a path to some starts in the early going.
Feb 19 2025Maeda was throwing 92 mph during a live batting practice session Tuesday, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's up from the 90.8 mph he averaged with his four-seamer last season and significantly more velocity than he was showing during spring training last year. With Alex Cobb (hip) slated to begin the season on the injured list, Maeda has a chance to make the Tigers' rotation out of spring training. That said, after collecting a 6.09 ERA over 17 starts and 12 relief appearances last season, Maeda has a lot to prove this spring. He will start Detroit's Grapefruit League opener Saturday.
Feb 17 2025With Alex Cobb (hip) likely out for about a month, Maeda could be at least a temporary option to slide into the starting rotation, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cobb's injury figures to prevent him from being able to ramp up properly for Opening Day, so the Tigers will have to fill his rotation spot for at least a turn or two. Detroit has Tarik Skubal, Reese Olson and Jack Flaherty locked in as starters, and the team could turn to the likes of Maeda, Jackson Jobe and Casey Mize to round things out. Maeda is a veteran option with plenty of MLB starts under his belt, so he could probably make the transition fairly quickly after pitching in relief to wrap up last season. The righty struggled in 2024, posting a career-worst 6.09 ERA, which ultimately prompted the move out of the rotation. If Maeda starts early in 2025, fantasy managers may want to take a wait-and-see approach given his rough performance a year ago.
Feb 3 2025Maeda may get another shot at a rotation spot this year, per Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic, though Detroit's addition of Jack Flaherty could push the former into the bullpen. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was brought over to Detroit before last season to start games, but he struggled mightily in his first year with the team, posting an ugly 6.09 ERA across 29 appearances (17 starts). The veteran righty did fare a bit better as a reliever, posting a 4.44 ERA out of the bullpen. Maeda stood to potentially get another chance at starting in 2025, though with Jack Flaherty joining the team Sunday, the rotation suddenly looks a bit more crowded. Flaherty, Tarik Skubal, Reese Olson and veteran newcomer Alex Cobb should all be locked into rotation spots. That leaves Maeda competing with Jackson Jobe and Casey Mize for the No. 5 starter spot with Keider Montero and Brant Hurter as longer-shot candidates. The one thing working in Maeda's favor is that he is owed $10 million this season and Detroit may look to give him one last shot as a starter.
Sep 29 2024Maeda (3-7) took the loss Sunday, allowing five runs on five hits and one walk over 4.2 innings against the White Sox. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda, who also hit a batter, struggled in his first start since early July, allowing five runs including a three-run homer by Lenyn Sosa. Maeda finished the regular season with 17 starts among 29 appearances, posting a career-worst 6.09 ERA and 1.38 WHIP, though he compiled a 3.86 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 8.8 K/9 through 42 innings out of the pen. As the Tigers prepare for a Wild Card matchup with the Astros, Maeda will revert back into a bullpen role.
Sep 15 2024Maeda allowed three runs on two hits and a walk across two innings of relief in Saturday's 4-2 loss to the Orioles. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was not charged with the loss, as Detroit already trailed 1-0 when he entered the game, but he didn't help his team's cause, either. The veteran righty has struggled all season, and his ERA now sits at an unsightly 6.07 after Saturday's poor performance. Maeda did come into the contest having logged 3.2 consecutive scoreless innings, but before that, he gave up eight runs (six earned) in his previous 9.1 innings. He's been much too volatile to trust in fantasy, and it remains to be seen what his role will be in 2025.
Sep 6 2024Maeda struck out one over 1.2 perfect innings out of the bullpen in Thursday's 4-3 win over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda hasn't made a start since July 9, but he's essentially maintained a rotation spot over the past two months while frequently operating as a bulk reliever. However, the right-hander was deployed in middle relief Thursday, with starter Casey Mize working five-plus innings before Maeda entered the game with one out and a runner on first base in the bottom the sixth inning. With Mize back in action following a recent stint on the 60-day injured list and with Brant Hurter and Ty Madden looking to have secured back-end spots in the Detroit rotation, Maeda appears poised to be used as a multi-inning option out of the bullpen.
Aug 28 2024Maeda (3-6) allowed two unearned runs on four hits across 4.1 innings of relief to earn the win in Wednesday's 3-2 victory over the Angels. He walked two and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda followed opener Mason Englert, who worked the first two innings of the game. Maeda mostly pitched well, with his only major blemish a home run by Mickey Moniak in the sixth inning following a Trey Sweeney error. The veteran righty allowed six earned runs over five innings in his last appearance, and he has an ugly 6.14 ERA overall this season, so Wednesday's effort was a pleasant surprise. It will take more sustained success for fantasy managers to trust Maeda, however, and he remains a risky option despite the step in the right direction.
Aug 22 2024Maeda (2-6) took the loss Thursday against the Cubs, allowing six runs on nine hits and two walks across five innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was hit early and often while serving in bulk relief Thursday, allowing a grand slam to Miguel Amaya in the second frame and surrendering a pair of doubles later in the outing. Since the start of July, Maeda has stumbled to a 7.60 ERA with a 31:8 K:BB across 36 innings. Though he may follow an opener again, Maeda is tentatively scheduled to pitch against the Angels early next week.
Aug 15 2024Maeda didn't factor into the decision Thursday against Seattle, allowing just one hit and one walk over 5.2 scoreless innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda's certainly shown improvement since he started working in bulk relief -- he's posted a 2.84 ERA across 19 innings in his last four appearances. Overall, the veteran right-hander is 2-5 with a 6.18 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 71:25 K:BB across 90.1 innings this year. Maeada's currently slated to start next week on the road versus the Cubs, though he could work behind an opener again due to his recent success.
Aug 9 2024Maeda allowed two runs on four hits and struck out two without walking a batter over 4.2 innings of relief versus the Giants on Friday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda continues to stretch out in anticipation of a return to the rotation -- he threw 72 pitches (46 strikes) Friday, up from 69 pitches in his previous outing. The veteran right-hander had a decent performance but couldn't sustain a 2-0 lead, allowing a run to score on a sacrifice fly in both the seventh and eighth innings. Maeda is now at a 6.59 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and 66:24 K:BB over 84.2 innings across 21 appearances (16 starts). He's projected to make his next appearance at home versus the Mariners, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him follow an opener at least one more time.
Jul 28 2024Maeda allowed one run on five hits across five innings of relief in Sunday's 5-0 loss to the Twins. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a bullpen game for Detroit with Alex Faedo starting, so the team turned to Maeda for some length in relief. The veteran delivered a strong performance, which was much needed after he had allowed 18 runs over 12 innings in his last four appearances. Maeda is still sitting with a rough 6.72 ERA overall, and he has virtually no fantasy value if he's not starting games for the Tigers. Maeda could reenter the rotation if one or both of Jack Flaherty and Tarik Skubal get traded before Tuesday's deadline. Maeda will be tough to trust if that happens, however, considering his struggles as a starter earlier this season.
Jul 21 2024Maeda allowed three runs on three hits across two innings of relief in Saturday's 7-3 win over the Blue Jays. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was effective in his first relief appearance of the year when he tossed 3.2 scoreless innings in the final game before the All-Star break. However, his second appearance did not go as well, with a Vladimir Guerrero two-run home run accounting for a big chunk of the damage. Madea has struggled throughout his first season with the Tigers, as he's now sitting with a career-worst 7.07 ERA across 71.1 innings. It seems unlikely that the veteran will rejoin the rotation anytime soon, and his fantasy value remains low given his current role and ineffectiveness. However, Reese Olson (shoulder) did leave Saturday's start early, which could open up a spot at least in the short term if he's forced to miss any time.
Jul 15 2024Maeda came out of the bullpen and threw 3.2 shutout frames during Detroit's walk-off win over the Dodgers. He allowed one hit and struck out five batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the first time this season, Maeda worked a bulk-relief role and the results looked great. He threw 34 of 55 pitches for strikes and generated 11 whiffs. He was crushed for 15 runs in just 6.1 innings over his previous two outings. Maeda will enter the second half without a clear role in Detroit. He's registered an unsightly 6.88 ERA and 55:23 K:BB through 69.1 frames.
Jul 14 2024Maeda is expected to serve as a bulk reliever behind starter Beau Brieske in Sunday's game against the Dodgers, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Maeda delivered a 7.26 ERA and 1.58 WHiP through his first 16 starts of the season, manager A.J. Hinch announced Thursday that the veteran right-hander will work out of the bullpen "for the foreseeable future." Before being moved to the bullpen Maeda had been lined up to start Sunday's series finale, but the Tigers haven't yet added a formal replacement in the rotation for the 36-year-old. Triple- A Toledo pitcher Matt Manning could eventually step in as the Tigers' new No. 5 starter after the All-Star break, but Detroit will first rely on its bullpen to get through the final game of the first half. Brieske hasn't covered more than three innings in any of his 31 outings between the majors and Triple-A this season, so he'll likely be on a short leash before turning the ball over to Maeda at some point. Maeda hasn't been used since his last start Tuesday versus the Guardians, so he's the freshest arm in the Detroit bullpen.
Jul 11 2024Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said Thursday that Maeda won't make his next scheduled start Sunday versus the Dodgers and has been moved to the bullpen "for the foreseeable future," Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda's demotion to the bullpen comes after he was lit up for six earned runs over 2.2 innings during Tuesday's 9-8 loss to the Guardians, bringing his season ERA to 7.26 over 65.2 frames. The Tigers signed the 36-year-old to a two-year, $24 million contract this winter with the hope that he would bring some experience and stability to the middle of a young rotation, but Maeda has fallen well short of the club's expectations. As a soft-tossing right-hander who doesn't make many bats miss at this stage of his career, Maeda wouldn't seem to be a candidate to see a dramatic spike in his performance while working out of the bullpen, so the Tigers could relegate him to lower-leverage or mop-up situations. Hinch didn't immediately name a replacement in the rotation for Maeda on Sunday, as the Tigers are instead expected to treat their final game before the All-Star break as a bullpen day, per Woodbery.
Jul 9 2024Maeda allowed six runs on seven hits, a walk and two strikeouts over 2.2 innings in a no-decision Tuesday against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda's rough stretch continues with yet another short outing, he's now allowed 15 runs over his last two games, which is the most in a two-game span in his career. The 36-year-old has now allowed six or more runs in a game five times this season, tied with Kevin Gausman for most in MLB this season. Maeda's ERA has jumped to 7.26, which is the highest by an American League pitcher with a minimum of 50 innings in 2024.
Jul 4 2024Maeda (2-5) allowed nine runs on nine hits across 3.2 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Twins. He walked three and struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was another ugly performance for Maeda, who saw his season ERA climb to 6.71. Outside of a clean first inning, the veteran allowed multiple runs to score in each of his other frames. Maeda had a decent 2023 campaign for these same Twins, posting a 4.23 ERA and 1.17 WHIP across 104.1 innings, but he hasn't carried that over into his first season in Detroit. The righty lines up to start again Tuesday against the Guardians, though at this point he can't be trusted by fantasy managers.
Jun 28 2024Maeda allowed two runs on six hits and a walk over 5.1 innings in a no-decision Friday. He struck out four during the loss to the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was tagged with a two-run shot by Luis Rengifo in the first inning but settled in for a solid outing. In six starts since returning from the injured list, Maeda has registered a 4.71 ERA. That's helped lower his season mark to 5.76 alongside a 45:19 K:BB through 59.1 frames. Maeda hasn't earned a win since May 24 and hasn't finished at least six innings since May 1. He's in line for a road start against his former team, the Twins, next week.
Jun 22 2024Maeda (2-4) took the loss against the White Sox on Saturday, allowing three runs on eight hits and no walks with five strikeouts over 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda tossed three scoreless innings before allowing two runs in the fourth. He then yielded two hits in the fifth before being pulled at 92 pitches, and an inherited runner scored on an RBI single by Andrew Vaughn. Maeda has not registered a quality start since May 1 and has only completed five or more innings in six of his 13 starts this season. The 36-year-old owns a 6.00 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 41:18 K:BB over 54 innings and lines up against the Angels next week.
Jun 16 2024Maeda (2-3) was the pitcher of record in Sunday's 4-1 loss to the Astros. He gave up four earned runs on five hits and two walks over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros jumped on Maeda early, plating a run on a pair of base hits in the first inning. Maeda initially looked as though he might not come back for the bottom of the second, as he was struck in the right leg by an 86.7-mile-per-hour Jon Singleton line drive that Maeda gathered and threw to first base for the final out of the first. Maeda limped off the mound and returned for the second, but he served up a three-run home run to Jose Altuve to put the Tigers in a bigger hole. On a positive note, Maeda was able to save the Detroit bullpen a bit, as he faced the minimum nine hitters over the next three frames to get through five innings. Still, the damage was done early, and Maeda has now given up at least four runs in five of his 11 starts this season. The veteran righty will take a 6.02 ERA into his next start, which will likely fall next weekend versus the White Sox.
Jun 11 2024Maeda (abdomen) allowed one run on one hit across four innings and did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's 5-4, 10-inning loss to the Nationals. He walked four and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was dialed in other than the four walks, which matched a season high, and he managed to lower his ERA a bit to 5.89. The righty threw only two pitches in his last outing Wednesday before departing with right abdominal discomfort, but he wasn't forced to miss any turns through the rotation. The Tigers were still understandably cautious with Maeda, as he tossed just 77 pitches Tuesday. The veteran should be able to go a bit longer in his next scheduled start, which is penciled in for Sunday against the Astros on the road.
Jun 10 2024Maeda (abdomen) is listed as the Tigers' probable pitcher for Tuesday's game against the Nationals at Comerica Park. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda threw just two pitches before he exited his most recent start last Wednesday against the Rangers due to right abdominal discomfort, resulting in the Tigers going with an impromptu bullpen day featuring five relievers. Fortunately for the veteran right-hander and the Tigers, Maeda appears to have come out of the abbreviated start with little more than mild soreness, and he'll be ready to make his next turn through the rotation on five days' rest. After inking a two-year, $24 million deal this winter, Maeda has gotten off to a rough start to his tenure with the Tigers, logging a 6.25 ERA and 1.41 WHIP over 40.1 innings while also spending time on the injured list due to a viral illness.
Jun 7 2024Maeda was seen throwing long toss Friday, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was removed from his start Wednesday after just two pitches with right abdominal discomfort. McCosky also reports that Maeda reported mild soreness in hs abdomen during the session but the pain wasn't enough to prevent him from progressing toward his next start, which is scheduled for Wednesday.
Jun 5 2024Maeda left Wednesday's game against the Rangers due to right abdominal discomfort, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was grabbing his right side after throwing just two pitches during Wednesday's contest, and Detroit's trainers decided it was enough of an issue to warrant his removal. The Tigers still have not yet indicated how severe the 36-year-old's injury is, but they will continue to monitor his condition as he approaches his next start -- tentatively scheduled for next Wednesday against Washington.
Jun 1 2024Maeda (2-2) took the loss Friday as the Tigers fell 7-3 to the Red Sox, coughing up five runs on eight hits and two walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It could have been a lot worse for the veteran right-hander. While five of the eight hits he surrendered went for extra bases, three of them were doubles high off the Green Monster that nearly left Fenway Park completely. Maeda took a big step back after blanking the Blue Jays over five innings in his first start off the IL back on May 24, but Friday's performance was more in line with his 2024 campaign so far. Maeda will take a 6.25 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 30:12 K:BB through 40.1 innings into his next outing, which lines up to come on the road next week against the Rangers.
May 24 2024Maeda (2-1) earned the win Friday over the Blue Jays, allowing four hits over five scoreless innings. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a strong effort from Maeda, who last pitched on May 7 before going on the IL with an illness -- he was tagged for seven runs in just two innings in that start. The 36-year-old Maeda lowered his ERA to 5.80 with a 1.32 WHIP and 24:10 K:BB over eight starts (35.2 innings) this season. He's currently lined up for a road matchup with the Red Sox in his next outing.
May 22 2024Maeda (illness) could return from the 15-day injured list to start Saturday or Sunday versus the Blue Jays, Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Petzold notes that Maeda is lined up to pitch this weekend, but the Tigers haven't yet divulged any official plans on that front. The right-hander has been on the shelf since mid-May with a viral illness but made a three-inning rehab start this past weekend for Triple-A Toledo and got through a bullpen session Wednesday with no concerns. Matt Manning is slated to make another start for Detroit on Friday but could be sent back down after that to make room for Maeda in the rotation.
May 20 2024Maeda (illness) allowed one run and struck out six over three innings in a rehab start with Triple-A Toledo on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He threw 53 pitches in the outing. Maeda will throw a bullpen session either Tuesday or Wednesday, per Chris McCosky of The Detroit News, and a decision as to whether he'll require another rehab start has not yet been made. It's possible he could rejoin the Tigers' rotation as soon as Friday versus the Blue Jays, but more should be known about his status in the coming days.
May 17 2024Maeda (illness) will make a rehab start with Triple-A Toledo on Sunday, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has been dealing with a viral illness that landed him on the IL on May 11. He began throwing off the mound Wednesday, and he'll make a rehab start with Triple-A Toledo on Sunday. Barring any setback, that would put Maeda in line to return for May 24 against the Blue Jays. The 36-year-old right-hander is 1-1 over seven starts this season with a 6.75 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 23:10 K:BB over 30.2 innings.
May 14 2024Maeda (illness) will throw a bullpen session Wednesday, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has been fighting a viral illness and was placed on the 15-day IL on Saturday. After being too sick to throw for a short period of time, Maeda's quick return to mound work should mean he won't require a lengthy absence. However, he'll still require a rehab assignment before rejoining the Tigers.
May 12 2024Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said Sunday that Maeda (illness) will require a rehab assignment prior to returning from the 15-day injured list, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was placed on the IL on Saturday with a viral illness, and Hinch noted that the right-hander's ailment was significant enough to keep him from playing catch over the last few days since he made his last start Tuesday in Cleveland. Though the 36-year-old is eligible to come off the IL as soon as May 23, the fact that the Tigers are already planning on Maeda needing a rehab assignment suggests that it's not a lock that he'll be ready to go when his 15 days are up. Maeda had gotten off to a rough start to the season prior to landing on the IL, going 1-1 with a 6.75 ERA and 1.40 WHIP across 30.2 innings through seven starts.
May 11 2024The Tigers placed Maeda on the 15-day injured list Saturday, retroactive to May 8, due to a viral illness. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda's ailment may in part explain his struggles in his last start against the Guardians on Tuesday, when he allowed seven runs on five hits across two innings and did not factor into the decision. The veteran right-hander will be on the shelf until at least May 23, which would line up with the start of a three-game home series against the Blue Jays. The Tigers recalled outfielder Akil Baddoo from Triple-A Toledo in a corresponding move, but Detroit could look to bring up Matt Manning from Triple-A to bolster the rotation in Maeda's absence.
May 7 2024Maeda allowed seven runs on five hits across only two innings of work but did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's 11-7 win over the Guardians. He walked three and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda wasn't very good in this one, but he escaped his second loss of the season thanks to a ton of run support. The veteran righty is now sitting with a subpar 6.75 ERA across his first seven starts with the Tigers, though he had only allowed one run over 11 innings in his previous two appearances coming into Tuesday, so there were some signs he was turning things around before this dud. Home runs have been a problem, as the 36-year-old has now allowed nine of them in 30.2 innings. Maeda will look to keep the ball in the park and post a better line in his next scheduled start, which is penciled in for Monday against the Marlins.
May 1 2024Maeda (1-1) earned the win Wednesday against St. Louis, allowing one run on four hits over six innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A Willson Contreras solo home run in the fourth inning was the lone mark against Maeda on Tuesday as the veteran right-hander cruised to his first win with the Tigers. After a brutal start to the year, Maeda's now allowed just one run on seven hits and no walks in his last two outings (11 innings). He's lowered his ERA to 5.02 with a 1.22 WHIP and 22:7 K:BB across six starts this season. Maeda will look to keep his momentum going in his next outing, currently lined up for early next week in Cleveland.
Apr 29 2024After Monday's game against the Cardinals was postponed due to inclement weather, Maeda will start in Wednesday's contest, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Tigers will roll with Jack Flaherty in the first game Tuesday, while Matt Manning is pencilled in to start the second contest as the 27th man. Maeda holds an 0-1 record over five starts this season, posting a 5.96 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 17:7 K:BB over 22.2 frames.
Apr 24 2024Maeda came away with a no-decision Tuesday, scattering three hits over five scoreless innings while striking out five in a 4-2 win over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tampa Bay couldn't get a runner past second base against Maeda, who fired 59 of 88 pitches for strikes in his best performance of the season to date. The veteran right-hander exited the game in line for his first win of the season, but Alex Faedo coughed up a 1-0 lead in the sixth inning. Maeda still carries a 5.96 ERA through 22.2 innings after serving up three homers in two different starts, but his 1.37 WHIP and 17:7 K:BB offer some hope that he can continue to chip away at the bloated figure. He lines up for a home outing early next week against the Cardinals.
Apr 18 2024Maeda did not factor into the decision Thursday against the Rangers, allowing six runs (five earned) on seven hits and two walks over 2.2 innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a tough day for Maeda against a potent Texas offense -- the right-hander gave up five runs on three homers before departing in the third inning. Maeda's ERA is up to 7.64 while allowing a league-most seven home runs across his first four starts (17,2 innings). He'll look to get on track in his next outing, currently slated for early next week in Tampa Bay.
Apr 13 2024Maeda didn't factor in the decision during Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Twins after he gave up two runs (one earned) on five hits and no walks over six innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda surrendered four homers in his first two outings, but he kept the ball in the yard Saturday and delivered his first quality start of the campaign. The right-hander wasn't exactly dominant as he generated just six swinging strikeouts on 87 pitches, but he was able to hold Minnesota at bay despite giving up three doubles. Through three starts Maeda now has a 6.00 ERA, 1.56 WHIP and 10:5: K:BB across 14 innings.
Apr 6 2024Maeda (10-) too the loss Saturday as the Tigers were downed 4-0 by the A's, giving up three runs on two hits and four walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander got tagged for a two-run homer by Brent Rooker in the first inning, and Detroit's offense never responded. Maeda still came close to producing a quality start, but he got the hook after 87 pitches (47 strikes). He sports a 5:5 K:BB through 9.0 innings to go along with a 9.00 ERA, and Maeda lines up to make his next start at home against the Twins next weekend.
Mar 31 2024Maeda didn't factor into the decision Saturday against the White Sox, surrendering six runs on seven hits -- including three home runs -- and a walk over 3.1 innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Tigers eventually rallied to win the game 7-6 in 10 innings, but Maeda was long gone by then. The veteran right-hander tossed 46 of 71 pitches for strikes and generated only 15 called or swinging strikes, getting tagged for at least one run in every frame in which he worked. Much of the damage came on a pair of two-run homers by Luis Robert. Maeda served up 33 long balls in 210.2 innings over the prior two years for the Twins, leading to a 4.44 ERA, so issues keeping the ball in the park are nothing new for him. He should fare better in his second start of the season, which lines up to come at home next weekend against the A's.
Mar 12 2024Maeda tossed four scoreless innings in Tuesday's Grapefruit League game against the Twins, allowing just one hit and two walks. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Facing his former team, Maeda had his best outing of the spring, lowering his Grapefruit League ERA to a stellar 2.00 across nine innings of work. The righty had some ups and downs last year in his return from Tommy John surgery, but he finished the season strong. If he can stay healthy, Maeda figures to post solid numbers and give the Tigers a much-needed veteran presence in the rotation in 2024.
Mar 7 2024Maeda threw 50 pitches across three innings in Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Blue Jays, Chris McCosky of The Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The outing marked Maeda's second of spring training and it featured both positives and negatives. Positively, he increased his pitch count from 30 to 53, which should allow him plenty of time to ramp up to a full workload before the regular season. On the other hand, Maeda's velocity and spin rates were both down. While it would be reassuring to see him throwing closer to his peak, there's still plenty of time for him to improve his form before meaningful games begin.
Nov 26 2023Maeda agreed to a two-year, $24 million contract with the Tigers on Sunday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda spent the last four years in Minnesota and will remain in the AL Central on a two-year deal with the Tigers. After posting a career-best 2.70 ERA and 0.75 WHIP in 66.2 innings during his first year with the Twins in the COVID-shortened season, the right-hander regressed over the past two years. He recorded a career-worst 4.66 ERA and 1.30 WHIP in 106.1 innings during the 2021 campaign before undergoing Tommy John surgery that forced him to miss the 2022 campaign. He wasn't particularly dominant in his return to the mound last season, logging a 4.23 ERA and 1.17 WHIP in 104.1 innings. However, the Tigers will hope that he can bounce back during his age-36 season in his second year removed from his procedure.
Sep 28 2023Maeda is not scheduled for another start this season, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda last pitched on Sept. 19, when he struck out eight over five scoreless innings in Cincinnati. He projects to be used as a reliever in the postseason, and the Twins look to be shifting him to that role now. Maeda figures to see some bullpen work this weekend in Colorado so he doesn't go into the playoffs following such a long layoff. A scheduled bullpen game Saturday would seem to be a prime opportunity.
Sep 20 2023Maeda (6-7) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one hit and one walk over five scoreless innings in a 7-0 win over the Reds. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was masterful Tuesday, setting down the first 11 batters in order and finishing with his second consecutive eight-strikeout performance. Despite allowing just two baserunners and throwing only 83 pitches, he was removed after five frames, which isn't all that surprising considering he tossed a season-high 105 pitches in his last outing. The veteran righty has earned a win in three straight starts, posting a 2.08 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 18:3 K:BB across 17.1 innings during that stretch. Maeda currently lines up for a favorable matchup with Oakland, which is tentatively scheduled for early next week at home.
Sep 15 2023Maeda (5-7) earned the win over the White Sox on Thursday, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk while striking out eight batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda rattled off six scoreless frames before Andrew Vaughn tagged him for a two-run homer in the seventh. The veteran hurler nonetheless finished off that inning and exited with his first quality start since Aug. 10. Maeda was impressive with 14 whiffs and eight strikeouts, with the latter mark tying for his second-highest total of the campaign. Though the right-hander has just five wins over 19 starts on the season, he's now notched consecutive victories for the first time in 2023.
Sep 10 2023Maeda (4-7) earned the win Saturday, allowing two runs on five hits and one walk over 5.1 innings against the Mets while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda got off to a rough start, surrendering a leadoff home run to Brandon Nimmo in the first at-bat of the game followed by an RBI single to Daniel Vogelbach four batters later. The veteran right-hander settled in after that, however, allowing just two more singles over the next four frames to earn his fourth win of the season and first since Aug. 5. Maeda had allowed at least three runs in four consecutive starts coming in, and he's now given up at least one homer in 10 straight outings.
Sep 3 2023Maeda did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on nine hits and two walks over five innings against the Rangers. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was working around trouble throughout his outing, but a three-run homer in the first by Mitch Garver was the only damage to his final line. Sunday marked the fourth consecutive start by Maeda where he failed to go past five innings and he's allowed 15 runs in 18 innings over that time frame. He'll look to rebound in his next start, likely to take place next weekend at home against the Mets.
Aug 28 2023Maeda allowed six runs on seven hits and a walk over four innings in Monday's win against Cleveland. He struck out three and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Most of the damage against Maeda came during Cleveland's four-run second inning but Minnesota's offense prevented him from taking a loss. He had allowed three or fewer runs in 11 straight outings prior to Monday's hiccup. During that stretch, he posted a 2.91 ERA but he now owns a 4.69 ERA on the year. Maeda is currently lined up to start in Texas this weekend.
Aug 24 2023Maeda did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing three runs on four hits and two walks over five innings against the Brewers while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda struggled out of the gate, allowing two runs on two hits in the first inning while also hitting Mark Canha with a pitch. The right-hander was much more effective over the next four innings, however, allowing only a solo homer to William Contreras in the third before hurling 1-2-3 innings in both the fourth and fifth frames. Maeda has pitched well in August to the tune of a 3.43 ERA and 23:4 K:BB, and he's now recorded at least six strikeouts in eight of his last nine outings. He has, however, failed to make it through six innings in each of his last two starts after opening the month with back-to-back quality starts.
Aug 17 2023Maeda did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk over four innings against the Tigers. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda struck out four batters over the first two innings and appeared to be on track for his third quality start in a row. However, the right-hander ran into trouble in the top of the third after allowing a leadoff single to Akil Baddoo, which would be followed by home runs from Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson in two of the next three at-bats. Maeda had gone at least five innings in each of his previous five starts coming in, and the seven hits allowed Wednesday were the most he's given up since April 26. Despite the poor outing, he still holds a 2.81 ERA to go along with a healthy 17:2 K:BB through three starts this month.
Aug 10 2023Maeda (3-7) took the loss Thursday, allowing one run on three hits and one walk over six innings in a 3-0 loss to the Tigers. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran righty induced just eight swinging strikes on 89 pitches, but he was able to keep Detroit off the board until Riley Greene obliterated a hanging slider in the sixth inning, sending it 453 feet to right field for a solo home run. That bomb proved to be the difference, as Minnesota's offense was shut out for the second time in three days. After a brutal start to the season, Maeda has been steady in his nine outings since returning from injury June 23, posting a 2.38 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 11.23 K/9 across 49.2 innings during that stretch. He is projected to face the Tigers again next week.
Aug 5 2023Maeda (3-6) earned the win over Arizona on Saturday, allowing one run on two hits and no walks while striking out seven batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda fell behind 1-0 in the second inning, but the Twins responded with an offensive outburst to go ahead 10-1 by the end of the sixth. The veteran hurler kept the Diamondbacks from countering, as he retired the final 14 batters he faced. Maeda struggled in his first start following the All-Star break, giving up three runs in three innings against Oakland. Since then, he's allowed two or fewer runs in each of his subsequent four outings, posting a 2.28 ERA and 31:4 over 23.2 frames during that span.
Jul 31 2023Maeda (2-6) was hit with the loss Sunday against the Royals after allowing two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda put together another solid outing and has now registered at least seven strikeouts in four of his last five starts. He wound up with the loss after the Twins managed just one run and let in runs of his own on a homer in the second and a pair of hits in the third. Maeda has had the fortune of facing some of the league's weaker offenses over the last month, but he's certainly provided mixed-league value and will look to get back in the win column (he hasn't won since July 4) in a home start against the Diamondbacks next weekend.
Jul 24 2023Maeda pitched 6.1 innings against Seattle on Monday, allowing one run on six hits and two walks while striking out eight batters in a no-decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda got through four scoreless frames before Sean Murphy hit a solo shot off him in the fifth. That was the only run the right-hander allowed, and he departed in line for the win with one out in the sixth only to see Minnesota's bullpen give up the lead in the ninth. Maeda finished with his third quality start over his past four outings, and he's now allowed three or fewer runs in each of his six starts since returning from the injured list June 23. During that span, the veteran hurler has posted very solid numbers, including a 2.48 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 44:11 K:BB over 32.2 innings.
Jul 19 2023Maeda allowed two runs on three hits and struck out nine over 6.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Mariners on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda allowed just one hit, erased by a double play, over his first five innings. Tom Murphy got to him with a solo home run in the sixth inning, and Maeda was charged with another run in the seventh. This was still one of his best outings of the season, and just his second quality start in nine appearances. Maeda owns a 5.10 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 50:12 K:BB through 42.1 innings overall. He's projected for a rematch with the Mariners at home next week.
Jul 15 2023Maeda did not factor into the decision Friday, allowing three runs on four hits and four walks over three innings against the Athletics. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has been wildly inconsistent in limited action this year. The right-hander was coming off a seven-inning, one-run performance July 4, his third start back from a triceps injury. His 5.50 ERA and 1.39 WHIP on the season are unsightly although 10 of his 22 earned runs on the season came in one brutal outing April 26 before he hit the injured list. Maeda's next start is tentatively scheduled to be Wednesday against the Mariners.
Jul 5 2023Maeda (2-5) picked up the win in Tuesday's 9-3 victory over the Royals, giving up two runs (one earned) on three hits and a walk over seven innings. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran right-hander produced his best start of the year, generating 31 called or swinging strikes over 87 pitches en route to his first quality start and a season high in strikeouts. Maeda also topped out at 92.2 mph with his fastball, a marked improvement on his velocity from April, when he made his initial return from Tommy John surgery. Since rejoining the rotation in late June after recovering from a triceps strain, he has a 1.59 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 21:5 K:BB in 17 innings over three starts.
Jun 28 2023Maeda (1-5) took the loss Wednesday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over five innings against Atlanta. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda issued a walk to Ronald Acuna to open the bottom of the first inning, who would then come around to score on a Matt Olson double after stealing second and advancing to third on a wild pitch. The right-hander would allow the leadoff man to reach again in the third, which would cost him as Atlanta took a 2-0 lead on a sacrifice fly. Maeda gave up only two runs on the afternoon after shutting out the Tigers over five innings in his previous outing, but he was still tagged with the loss for the fifth time in his last six starts. He'll look for his second win when the Twins take on the Royals at home next week.
Jun 23 2023Maeda (1-4) earned the win Friday, allowing three hits and two walks over five scoreless innings against the Tigers. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his return after nearly eight weeks on the shelf with a triceps strain, Maeda shined across five scoreless en route to his first win of the season. He got 14 called strikes and 11 swinging strikes on 83 total pitches. The veteran had an ugly 9.00 ERA and 1.62 WHIP across his first four starts prior to landing on the injured list, and he tentatively lines up for a tough matchup in Atlanta next week, but a healthy Maeda can still be useful in fantasy when deployed judiciously.
Jun 21 2023Maeda (triceps) will return from the 15-day injured list to start Friday against the Tigers, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has been on the injured list since the end of April due to a right triceps strain. He began a rehab assignment May 30 and has surrendered just three earned runs across 8.1 frames during his four starts. The 35-year-old's 9.00 ERA is heavily inflated by his 10-run, three-inning appearance that he endured in his last start, but Maeda certainly could turn things around Friday against a Tigers offense that ranks 29th in team OPS.
Jun 19 2023Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Monday that Maeda (triceps) "likely will pitch for us in the big leagues by the end of the week," Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has posted a 2.03 ERA and 17:5 K:BB over 13.1 innings covering four starts on his rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul. Baldelli wouldn't reveal specifics on Maeda's return or even the role he'll fill, but the righty could slide into the rotation spot currently held by Louie Varland, who has been roughed up each of his last three times out. Varland is tentatively lined up to start Friday in Detroit, which would be on six days' rest for Maeda.
Jun 16 2023Maeda (triceps) gave up one run over 4.1 innings with four strikeouts and four walks Friday in his fourth rehab outing for Triple-A St. Paul. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He threw 81 pitches as he continues to work his way back after being sidelined in late April due to a right triceps strain. The Twins elected to go with a bullpen game Saturday rather than activate him from the injured list, so Minnesota may not be in a hurry to add Maeda to the major-league roster. He may need to make several more starts as Triple-A until he's able to pitch five innings or more.
Jun 13 2023Maeda (triceps) is slated to make another rehab start Friday with Triple-A St. Paul, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It will be his fourth rehab start, and possibly his final one. Out since late April due to a right triceps strain, Maeda has scattered two runs over nine innings so far with St. Paul. He's racked up 13 strikeouts against only one walk while working through some mechanical misalignments that stem back to his initial return from Tommy John surgery.
Jun 10 2023Maeda (triceps) threw four scoreless innings in his rehab start for Triple-A St. Paul on Saturday. He allowed three hits and struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has now made three rehab starts with the Saints, and this one was his best. The right-hander is working his way back from the triceps strain that has limited him to just 16 innings and four starts in the 2023 campaign. Assuming there's a good health report after this outing, it seems very plausible that Maeda's next start will be made as a member of the Twins.
Jun 4 2023Maeda (triceps) gave up two earned runs over three innings with four strikeouts and no walks during a rehab start Sunday for Triple-A St. Paul. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was his second rehab outing with the Saints and he went one inning longer than his first start. Maeda will likely need several more rehab starts before he's ready to be considered for Minnesota's rotation. The 35-year-old right-hander posted a 9.00 ERA across his first four starts (16 innings) this season before going on the injured list in late April due to a right triceps strain.
May 30 2023Maeda (triceps) threw two scoreless innings Tuesday with four strikeouts and a walk for Triple-A St. Paul during a rehab outing. He's set to make another rehab appearance Sunday with St. Paul, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda will likely need several rehab starts before he's ready to be considered for Minnesota's rotation. The 35-year-old right-hander posted a 9.00 ERA across his first four starts (16 innings) this season before going on the injured list in late April due to a right triceps strain.
May 26 2023Maeda (triceps) is set to begin a minor-league rehab assignment Tuesday with Triple-A St. Paul, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda will probably be asked to make a handful of starts on the farm to prove both his health and effectiveness. The former Cy Young Award candidate posted a 9.00 ERA across his first four starts (16 innings) this season with the Twins before going on the injured list in late April due to a right triceps strain.
May 23 2023Maeda (biceps) threw another successful bullpen session Tuesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda told Hayes that he hit 88 mph with his fastball and was encouraged by that radar reading as he prepares to embark on a rehab assignment. He'll throw one more bullpen session before meeting up with one of the Twins' minor-league affiliates next week. If all goes well from this point forward, Maeda could return to the rotation in early-to-mid June. He's been out since April 29 with a right triceps strain.
May 20 2023Maeda (biceps) threw a bullpen session Saturday that went well, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda threw around 25 pitches in the session, and he exclusively used his fastball and change-up. The right-hander is scheduled to throw another bullpen Tuesday, and he'll use all of his pitches in that effort. Maeda will need to throw a few more bullpens before going on a rehab assignment, but he could be back in the Minnesota rotation before the end of May.
May 15 2023The Twins are hopeful that Maeda (triceps) will be cleared to throw off the mound by the end of the week, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was placed on the 15-day injured list April 29 due to a right triceps strain, and while he remains without a firm timetable for a return, this latest update is positive news. The team will likely ask him to complete a few side sessions before beginning a rehab assignment.
Apr 29 2023Maeda was placed on the 15-day injured list Saturday with a right triceps strain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda suffered the injury on his last turn through the Twins' rotation Wednesday versus the Yankees. There's no exact timetable yet, but this type of injury will often cost pitchers several weeks. Bailey Ober is up from Triple-A St. Paul and getting the start Saturday versus the Royals.
Apr 28 2023Maeda will be shut down for 3-7 days after being diagnosed with a right triceps strain, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda suffered the injury during Wednesday's start against the Yankees and will be placed on the injured list. The positive news is the arm issue is unrelated to his previous Tommy John surgery and will be treated as a muscle strain. Still, it has the potential to keep him sidelined several weeks. Bailey Ober is taking Maeda's spot in the Twins' rotation.
Apr 27 2023Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Thursday that Maeda (elbow) will likely be placed on the injured list, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: MRI results on Maeda's right elbow showed no structural damage but did reveal a muscle strain. Maeda described his injury as arm fatigue -- a common occurrence for pitchers coming back from Tommy John surgery. Either way, the 35-year-old righty will miss a couple starts and could potentially be replaced in the rotation by Bailey Ober or Josh Winder.
Apr 4 2023Maeda (arm) said he exited Tuesday's start against the Marlins while feeling some fatigue, but he otherwise feels fine and expects to make his next turn through the rotation, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's encouraging news on the veteran right-hander, who was making his first start for the Twins since he underwent Tommy John surgery in August of 2021. He took a tough-luck loss Tuesday with Sandy Alcantara dominating in a three-hit shutout, but he pitched exceptionally well with nine strikeouts and just one run allowed on three hits and no walks over five innings. Assuming no further issues crop up, the 34-year-old tentatively lines up to next take the mound Monday against the White Sox.
Mar 25 2023Maeda gave up two runs on three hits and three walks with five strikeouts in Friday's spring training win over the Yankees. He lowered his spring ERA to 4.91 and has a 14:10 K:BB in 14.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda improved from his previous spring outing where he gave up five runs and two home runs in four innings. Walks continue to be an issue for Maeda this spring, however. He is working his way back from August 2021 Tommy John surgery and pitching in his first games this spring. His high walk totals this spring could be a sign his command isn't sharp yet after undergoing surgery. It could also just be a byproduct of a veteran in spring training working on pitches without too much regard to the results. Monitor his performance early in the season, but he's set to begin the year in the Minnesota rotation.
Feb 25 2023Maeda (elbow) threw 13 pitches in a scoreless inning with a hit allowed and strikeout in his spring debut Saturday. He reached 90.3 mph with his fastball. "Just a relief to be able to come back scoreless," Maeda told MLB.com. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda hadn't thrown a competitive pitch since August of 2021 before undergoing Tommy John surgery. He hopes to reach 92-93 mph with his fastball, but velocity hasn't been a big part of his arsenal (90.5 mph in 2021). The Twins will slowly ramp him back up this spring, but the larger question is if the Twins will use a six-man rotation in April to ease Maeda back into action once the regular season begins.
Feb 23 2023Maeda (elbow) will make his Grapefruit League debut Saturday versus the Rays, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda hasn't thrown a competitive pitch since August of 2021 before undergoing Tommy John surgery, but that won't keep the Twins from handing him the ball in their first game of the spring (they actually have another game starting at the same time, with Louie Varland starting that one). The right-hander will be ready to roll for Opening Day but figures to have his workload watched carefully given his long layoff.
Feb 16 2023Maeda (elbow) threw about 40 pitches Thursday in his first bullpen session of the spring, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Park notes that Maeda only topped out at around 89 mph, but that is to be expected here in February for a pitcher who is coming off Tommy John surgery. The 34-year-old right-hander is now more than 16 months removed from that procedure and is expected to have a spot near the back of the Twins' season-opening starting rotation. There's certainly some intriguing bounceback-type upside in Maeda's outlook for 2023.
Jan 28 2023Maeda (elbow) will have no restrictions during spring training, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda missed all of the 2022 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery he underwent in September of 2021. The right-hander struggled to a 4.66 ERA in 21 appearances before the injury that season, but he has been an effective option in previous seasons. He's someone to monitor in the Grapefruit League, as a return to prior form could pay dividends for fantasy managers in 2023.
Aug 29 2022Maeda (elbow) is making progress in his recovery but isn't expected to pitch down the stretch of the 2022 regular season, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda underwent Tommy John surgery in September of 2021 and was hopeful to return in September of 2022, but the team has since announced that he'll need more time before being activated. However, the right-hander would still be eligible for the playoff roster should the Twins advance to the postseason. Maeda is expected to advance to a live bullpen session within the next few days.
Aug 22 2022Maeda (elbow) is expected to face hitters in live batting practice sessions beginning next Monday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has been throwing bullpen sessions for the past few weeks, with his fastball typically sitting around 87-to-90 miles per hour in those workouts. He's also incorporating his other pitches into those sessions and looks like he'll be ready to take the next step forward in his throwing progression early next week. Maeda underwent a Tommy John surgery Sept. 1 of last year that involved the insertion of an internal brace to his elbow, a modification that he believes will reduce the recovery timeline typically associated with the procedure. If he's able to make it back in September as he hopes, Maeda will likely be used out of the bullpen.
Aug 13 2022Maeda (elbow) threw a 30-pitch bullpen session Friday and will throw another bullpen Monday, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's possible Maeda could return in September to pitch out of the bullpen, but he'll need to show steady progress the next few bullpen sessions before going out on a rehab assignment. Maeda is in the penultimate season of a eight-year, $25 million contract and will likely want to finish the 2022 campaign on the field so that he can enter spring training healthy and ready to compete for a spot in the Minnesota rotation.
Jul 13 2022Maeda (elbow) said Wednesday that he's hopeful to resume facing hitters in August and added that he will "most likely" work out of the bullpen if he's reinstated from the 60-day injured list this season, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda provided a loose outline for his rehab program one day after he threw the 10th bullpen session of his rehab program for the alternative Tommy John procedure he underwent Sept. 1 of last year. The right-hander threw all fastballs during his 30-pitch workout Tuesday, so he'll first need to incorporate all of his pitches into his side sessions before the Twins clear him to face hitters in live batting practice. Once he's deemed ready for game action, Maeda will likely need most of the 30-day minor-league rehab window to get ramped up and sharpen his command and control following the year-long layoff. Maeda is in the penultimate season of a eight-year, $25 million contract and will likely want to finish the 2022 campaign on the field so that he can enter spring training healthy and ready to compete for a spot in the Minnesota rotation.
Jun 8 2022Maeda (elbow) said Wednesday that he hopes to resume mound work in 2-to-3 weeks, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda is currently with the Twins and has been throwing off flat ground for over a month. While the right-hander now has a timetable to resume mound work, he said Wednesday that he isn't yet sure whether he'll return from the injured list prior to the end of the season.
Mar 19 2022Maeda (elbow) has moved to the 60-day IL as he recovers from Tommy John surgery, reports Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move is a formality for Maeda as he makes room on the 40-man roster for new signing, Joe Smith. Maeda continues to recover from Tommy John surgery and is eyeing a September return to action.
Mar 13 2022Maeda (elbow) said Sunday that he began a throwing program earlier this month and is currently playing catch off flat ground from 30 feet, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In the early stages of his rehab program from the modified Tommy John surgery he underwent Sept. 1, Maeda has thus far avoided any setbacks, but the right-hander acknowledged that he's unsure if he'll be able to pitch for the Twins at any point this season. Ultimately, whether Maeda toes the rubber in the big leagues in 2022 will be dictated by how he progresses in the months to come, and the Twins' place in the standings in the second half of the season should factor into the equation as well. Even if Maeda is able to advance through his rehab quickly and make a 12-month turnaround from the elbow procedure, he won't be worth stashing in any redraft leagues until several months down the road.
Jan 27 2022Maeda (elbow) told The Tokyo Mainichi on Jan. 7 that he's realistically targeting a return to action in the final month of the 2022 season. "Even if I can return, it will be around September. It's not a zero percent chance," Maeda said. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda underwent a modified Tommy John surgery Sept. 1, 2021, with his procedure involving the insertion of an internal brace into his right elbow. The innovative procedure was expected to reduce Maeda's recovery timeline to 9-to-12 months rather than the typical 12-to-16, but the 33-year-old still looks as though he plans on requiring a full year to complete his rehab. With the pitcher himself ruling out a midseason return, Maeda doesn't look to be an appealing fantasy investment, even as a final-round selection in AL-only leagues or best-ball drafts. On a more positive note, Maeda seems to have avoided any setbacks since having the procedure, as he said that he plans to resume playing catch at some point during spring training.
Sep 1 2021Maeda underwent Tommy John surgery Wednesday, with his procedure involving the insertion of an internal brace that could help him return in 9-to-12 months, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda will miss the rest of the 2021 season and likely most of the 2022 season. The inclusion of a brace could speed up his recovery from a typical 12-to-16 month timeframe, but it may be well into next year before there's a clearer timetable for his return. After dazzling during an 11-start sample in the abbreviated 2020 campaign, Maeda took a big step back in 2021 before suffering the season-ending injury in August. Over 106.1 innings, Maeda went 6-5 with a 4.66 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and a 113:32 K:BB.
Aug 27 2021Maeda (forearm) will undergo season-ending surgery Wednesday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was evaluating several options after he sustained a forearm injury Saturday, but he'll ultimately opt for surgery. Manager Rocco Baldelli said Friday that he isn't yet sure what procedure the right-hander will undergo, but Tommy John surgery is on the table. Regardless of the type of procedure, Maeda won't pitch again until at least 2022.
Aug 24 2021Maeda was sent for a second opinion on his forearm injury Tuesday, with the Twins concerned about potential UCL issues, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda hit the injured list Monday, but he's so far not been diagnosed with anything worse than forearm tightness. That could change following the second opinion, however. Any mention of UCL issues raises the specter of Tommy John surgery, though the Twins have yet to indicate that's on the table. Anything from a return within a few weeks to a return at the start of the 2023 season appears in play for Maeda at the moment.
Aug 23 2021Maeda was placed on the injured list with right forearm tightness Monday, Brandon Warne of Access Twins reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda left his start Saturday against the Yankees with the injury, which was evidently serious enough to cost him at least one start. He's yet to be diagnosed with anything more serious than tightness, but it's unclear how much time the Twins expect him to miss.
Aug 21 2021Maeda (forearm) will undergo additional testing, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was charged with the loss against the Yankees on Saturday and was removed from the game in the bottom of the fifth inning due to his injury. Forearm issues can be cause for concern with pitchers, so it's not surprising that the right-hander will undergo testing, including an MRI. Manager Rocco Baldelli isn't yet sure how long Maeda will be sidelined, but a better idea of his return timetable likely won't be known until the results of his tests are known.
Aug 14 2021Maeda (6-4) allowed three hits and one walk with four strikeouts through six innings of shutout ball, picking up the win in Saturday's 12-0 victory over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was dazzling Saturday night, allowing just three singles over six spotless innings. After allowing eight runs over his last two starts, the right-hander returned to form with an ERA-shrinking quality start. His next appearance figures to come Thursday against the Yankees.
Aug 8 2021Maeda (5-4) allowed three runs on six hits and three walks over five innings Sunday, striking out five and earning a win against Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With a 1.80 WHIP and 100 pitches through five innings, it definitely wasn't Maeda's most efficient outing. He allowed RBI base hits in each of the first, fourth and fifth innings but still managed to escape with a win. The veteran righty has allowed at least three runs in four of his last five outings, raising his season ERA to 4.69 through 19 starts. Maeda is lined up to face the Rays at home next weekend.
Aug 4 2021Maeda didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 7-5 win over the Reds, giving up five runs on seven hits -- including three home runs -- and a walk over five innings. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander appeared to have turned things around in July, posting a 2.15 ERA over five starts with a 36:6 K:BB through 29.1 innings, but Maeda began August by serving up multiple homers for the first time since June 20. The return of his strikeouts is encouraging however, and starts like this one should be the exception rather than the rule as long as he keeps generating whiffs. Maeda will carry a 4.65 ERA and 1.32 WHIP into his next outing.
Jul 27 2021Maeda allowed one earned run on four hits and two walks while striking out five across 6.1 innings Tuesday against Detroit. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda allowed only a solo home run to Akil Baddoo. He otherwise shut down the Tigers' lineup, generating 14 swinging strikes on 91 total pitches. The only downside to his outing was that he lost the chance for a win due a meltdown by Hansel Robles in the ninth inning. After a shaky start to the season that was worsened by an absence due to a groin and arm injury, Maeda has allowed only seven earned runs across his last five starts and 29.1 frames. Overall, he has a 4.40 ERA with 90 strikeouts across 86 innings on the campaign.
Jul 23 2021Maeda (4-4) was tagged with the loss Thursday against the Angels after allowing three runs on seven hits while fanning six across seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda fired his second quality start of the month and hasn't given up more than three runs in any of his last four outings, but he was still tagged with the loss after being outdueled by Andrew Heaney, who also posted a quality start of his own. Maeda has given up three or fewer runs in six of his last seven appearances, in fact, and he owns a decent 3.89 ERA across 37 innings during that span. He's slated to make his next start next week at home against the Tigers.
Jul 18 2021Maeda allowed three runs on three hits and a walk while striking out eight over five innings in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Tigers. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three runs given up by Maeda came on one swing of the bat. The 33-year-old loaded the bases in the second before allowing a triple to Akil Baddoo that brought everyone home. Aside from one bad inning, Maeda had his stuff working as he topped at least seven strikeouts for the third straight outing. The right-hander is having an uncharacteristically down year with a 4.71 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 79:24 K:BB over 72.2 innings. He's lined up for a home start against the Angels next week.
Jul 16 2021Maeda won't pitch in Game 2 of Friday's doubleheader against the Tigers since it was postponed due to inclement weather, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Neither game of the twin bill will be played with rain in the forecast all day. One of the contests will be made up via a doubleheader Saturday, while the other game is pushed to Aug. 30. According to Dan Hayes of The Athletic, Maeda will simply be pushed back a day and start Game 2 of Saturday's twin bill.
Jul 9 2021Maeda yielded two hits and two walks over five scoreless innings in Friday's win over Detroit. He struck out seven and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda never let a runner reach scoring position in Friday's outing. He's now tossed 11 shutout frames over his last two starts after he was crushed for seven runs June 29 against the White Sox. The 33-year-old righty is sporting a 4.66 ERA and a 71:23 K:BB on the year. He'll get back on the mound after the All-Star break.
Jul 4 2021Maeda (4-3) allowed two hits and a walk over six shutout innings Sunday, striking out 10 and earning a win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Maeda allowed a pair of two-out singles in the second inning, he locked in and retired 13 straight Royals to finish off his terrific outing. It was his first double-digit strikeout game of the season and his six innings of work tied his season best. It was a promising bounce-back performance after he was shelled for seven runs in his last start. Maeda now owns a 5.03 ERA and 64:21 K:BB this season. He's projected to face the Tigers at home next.
Jun 30 2021Maeda (3-3) took the loss Tuesday as the Twins fell 7-6 to the White Sox, coughing up seven runs on eight hits and five walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After having his turn in the rotation postponed twice due to inclement weather, Maeda seemingly couldn't find the feel on his pitches. The five free passes were a season high for the right-hander, and he'll carry a 5.56 ERA, 1.55 WHIP and 54:20 K:BB through 56.2 innings into his next start.
Jun 28 2021Maeda won't start as scheduled Monday against the White Sox since the game was postponed due to rain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 33-year-old was originally slated to start Saturday before that contest was postponed, and another postponement will push his start back another day. Maeda will pitch Tuesday in Chicago, with the rest of the rotation pushed back a day, per Dan Hayes of The Athletic.
Jun 26 2021Maeda won't start Saturday against Cleveland, as the game has been postponed due to rain, but will pitch Monday against the White Sox instead, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday's game won't be made up Sunday but will instead be made up as part of a doubleheader in September. J.A. Happ will stay on schedule for his Sunday start, with Maeda getting two extra days of rest. That should line him up for a two-start week next week, as he'd be on turn to face the Royals on Saturday.
Jun 20 2021Maeda (3-2) allowed two runs on five hits and a walk with four strikeouts in 5.1 innings, earning the win over Texas on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda cruised through five innings before Adolis Garcia and Joey Gallo went back-to-back with one out in the sixth. Tyler Duffey relieved Maeda at that time, and Minnesota held on for the win. The right-hander threw 84 pitches (54 strikes) in his second start since returning from an adductor strain and arm soreness. He's posted a 4.85 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 50:15 K:BB across 52 innings this season. He lines up for his next start versus Cleveland next weekend.
Jun 15 2021Maeda allowed one run on three hits and three walks while striking out seven over four innings Monday against the Mariners in his first start back from the injured list. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's understandable that Maeda was on a pitch count -- he threw 78 pitches -- and showed some signs of rust after missing the last few weeks with a right adductor strain and some right arm soreness. He struggled a bit with his command, as this was the first time this season that he walked more than two batters in an outing. All three of his free passes did come in the same inning, however. The only time the Mariners really got to him was in the third, when he allowed a leadoff double and then an RBI single to Jake Fraley. It's been a frustrating year so far for Maeda, who currently owns a career-worst 5.01 ERA and 1.48 WHIP to go along with a 46:14 K:BB over 46.2 innings. He's in line for a favorable matchup against the Rangers over the weekend.
Jun 14 2021Maeda (arm) was activated from the 10-day injured list and will start Monday against the Mariners, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 33-year-old landed on the shelf with a right adductor strain May 23 and dealt with some right arm soreness while rehabbing, but he'll officially rejoin the starting rotation Monday. Maeda has struggled through nine starts with a 5.27 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and 80:10 K:BB over 42.2 innings this season, and he'll look to rebound now that he's healthy.
Jun 11 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli said Friday that Maeda (arm) will be activated to start Monday's game against the Mariners, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda landed on the injured list May 23 with a right adductor strain and later suffered arm soreness as he resumed throwing at the end of May. The right-hander threw 54 pitches during a rehab start with Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday, allowing one run while punching out five across four innings. His next start will come with the Twins on Monday, though he likely won't be fully stretched out in his return to the big leagues.
Jun 10 2021Maeda (arm) worked four innings of one-run ball in his rehab start Wednesday for Triple-A St. Paul, permitting one hit and one walk while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda looked good in his first outing since May 22, pumping in 33 of his 54 pitches for strikes while limiting the damage to a solo home run. The Twins have yet to decide whether Maeda will make his next start on a more limited pitch count as a member of the big-league rotation, or if he'll stick around at Triple-A for another turn. Whenever Maeda returns from the 10-day injured list, Matt Shoemaker or Randy Dobnak will likely be excised from the rotation.
Jun 8 2021Maeda (arm/groin) is scheduled to throw 50-55 pitches during his rehab start with Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Given this update, Maeda will likely need at least another start after Wednesday in order to be fully stretched out. That being said, the Twins could opt to bring the right-hander back to the majors before building him all the way back up rather than extending his rehab assignment. The plan for Maeda should become more clear after his outing Wednesday.
Jun 7 2021Maeda (arm/groin) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda threw 35 pitches in a bullpen session Sunday, and he'll return to game action during his rehab start Wednesday. The right-hander still doesn't have a clear timetable to return to the major-league rotation, but he could be reinstated from the injured list as early as next week if all goes well.
Jun 6 2021Maeda (arm) completed a 35-pitch bullpen session Sunday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: On the mound for the second time in three days, Maeda took a step forward Sunday in terms of intensity and volume from Friday's side session, which consisted of 20 pitches. The Twins haven't formally outlined the next step in Maeda's recovery program from a sore right arm, but the prevailing expectation is that he'll report to Triple-A St. Paul later this week to make a rehab start. If all goes well, Maeda could be on track to return from the 10-day injured list by next week.
Jun 4 2021Maeda (arm/groin) successfully completed a 20-pitch bullpen session Friday and is slated to throw another bullpen Sunday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's still unclear what the full plan is for Maeda as far as a return to the Twins' rotation is concerned. A rehab assignment still figures to be a possibility, though the club could opt to build him up through simulated games instead. In either scenario, Friday's bullpen marks an important step toward returning for the right-hander, and he'll look to make further progress when he takes the mound again Sunday.
Jun 2 2021Maeda (arm/groin) completed a long-toss session Tuesday and could throw a bullpen session in Kansas City this weekend, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A right adductor strain initially landed Maeda on the injured list May 23, but a sore right arm seems to be the greater concern at the moment for the 33-year-old. The latter injury resulted in Maeda being barred from throwing over the past few days, but he's since gained clearance to start ramping up. The Twins will see how he fares in his upcoming side session before deciding whether to send Maeda out on a minor-league rehab assignment or to have him build up through simulated games prior to being activated from the IL. Regardless of what route the Twins go, Maeda is likely more than a week away from rejoining the active roster.
May 30 2021Maeda has recovered from the right groin strain that landed him on the injured list, but he won't resume throwing until general soreness in his right arm subsides, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 33-year-old has apparently been battling the soreness throughout the first two months of the season, so he's taking a bit more rest after his most recent bullpen session. Maeda will be eligible to return from the injured list Wednesday, but at this point he seems likely to be sidelined until at least mid June.
May 29 2021Maeda (groin) may miss more time than originally expected, as his bullpen session Friday indicated that he was progressing slower than the Twins hoped, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Reports from earlier in the week indicated that Maeda would likely miss more than the minimum 10 days with his groin strain. It now appears as though he's slightly behind that schedule as well. When exactly the Twins expect him back in the rotation remains unclear.
May 25 2021Maeda (groin) may end up spending more than the minimum 10 days on the injured list as the Twins look to ensure he's 100 percent healthy before activating him, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Minnesota moved Maeda to the IL on Sunday after he was diagnosed with a right adductor strain, an injury related to the groin tightness he had been managing heading into both of his most recent two starts. Though Maeda has shown the ability to pitch through discomfort in the past, the Twins don't want to bring him back too soon and risk the adductor strain becoming something that nags the right-hander throughout the season. Randy Dobnak is expected to stick in the rotation as Minnesota's fifth starter until Maeda is deemed fit to return.
May 23 2021The Twins placed Maeda on the 10-day injured list Sunday with a right adductor strain, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After battling groin tightness in his May 16 start against the Athletics, Maeda was able to make his next turn through the rotation in Saturday's 5-3 loss to Cleveland, but the injury continued to trouble him. Manager Rocco Baldelli revealed Sunday that Maeda is dealing with a strain, so the veteran right-hander will be on the shelf for at least the next week and a half to heal up. Maeda's absence should pave the way for Randy Dobnak to temporarily hold down a rotation spot.
May 22 2021Maeda was pulled after five innings Saturday against Cleveland after tightness in his groin worsened, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. He didn't factor in the decision after giving up three runs on three hits with six strikeouts and one walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 32-year-old expected to return for the sixth inning since he was only at 73 pitches, but he didn't end up retaking the mound after the tightening worsened. Maeda has dealt with the injury during his past two starts and wasn't 100 percent entering Saturday's start, so the Twins may be more cautious with his next turn through the rotation.
May 20 2021Maeda (groin) will start Saturday against Cleveland, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda suffered from groin tightness in his last start, but he managed to avoid a stint on the injured list. It was originally projected that he'd draw the start Friday, but the Twins will give him an extra day of rest and instead hand the ball to Randy Dobnak. J.A. Happ will start the series finale Sunday.
May 19 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli suggested Wednesday that Maeda (groin) would be ready to make a start during the Twins' upcoming three-game weekend series in Cleveland, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Michael Pineda's (thigh) status for the three-game set in Cleveland is uncertain, and none of the other three members of the Minnesota rotation will be available Friday, so expect Maeda to get the nod in the series opener if his sore groin is presenting no further issues. After experiencing minor groin tightness in his most recent outing last weekend against the Athletics, Maeda was apparently able to throw without incident Tuesday. Coming off a brilliant 2020 campaign, the soft-tossing right-hander has been a disappointment for fantasy managers through his first eight starts of 2021, going 2-2 while posting a 5.26 ERA, 1.57 WHIP and 7.9 K/9.
May 17 2021Maeda (groin) will throw Tuesday as the Twins try to determine whether or not he'll be able to make his next scheduled start against Cleveland on Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda received treatment for a tight groin after his four-inning start against the Athletics on Sunday. The Twins described the issue as minor, but whether or not it's minor enough that he won't have to miss any starts won't become clear until after he throws Tuesday.
May 16 2021Maeda is receiving treatment after he experienced minor groin tightness in Sunday's loss to the Athletics, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda allowed five runs (three earned) on eight hits and a walk while striking out two in four innings prior to his departure Sunday. He didn't factor into the decision. Manager Rocco Baldelli described Maeda's injury as minor, so it appears likely that he'll be able to make his next start. Maeda tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Cleveland on Friday.
May 11 2021Maeda allowed three earned runs on four hits and two walks while striking out three across five innings Tuesday against the White Sox. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was sunk by a poor second inning, during which he allowed the first two batters he faced to reach base followed by a three-run blast to Yasmani Grandal. He went on to retire the final nine batters he faced, though he struggled to get strikeouts and generated only 10 swinging strikes on 87 total pitches. Lack of punchouts is now an ongoing concern for Maeda, as he's managed only 15 across his last 19 innings of work. For the season, Maeda has maintained a 5.08 ERA with a 31:9 K:BB across 33.2 innings. He currently lines up to draw his next start Sunday against Oakland.
May 9 2021Maeda and the Twins won't face the Tigers on Sunday after the game was postponed due to rainy weather in Detroit, Megan Ryan of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The two teams plan to make up the game as part of a split doubleheader July 16. Minnesota has yet to announce how the postponement may affect its pitching schedule, but Maeda will presumably just have his start bumped to the Twins' next game Tuesday in Chicago versus the White Sox. Maeda would line up for a second start later that weekend at home against the Athletics.
May 3 2021Maeda (2-2) earned the win after allowing two runs and two walks while striking out eight over 5.1 scoreless innings Monday against Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was rock solid in his sixth start of the 2021 campaign after struggling in his previous two outings. After cruising through the first five frames, he ran into some trouble in the top of the sixth, allowing a double and a walk with one out. This resulted in his departure from the contest, but Minnesota's bullpen managed to retire the final two outs of the inning to get Maeda off the hook. The 33-year-old sits with a 5.34 ERA and 1.57 WHIP with 28 punchouts through 28.2 innings this season.
Apr 27 2021Maeda (1-2) took the loss Tuesday at Cleveland after giving up five runs on eight hits with three strikeouts and zero walks over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was another rough outing for the veteran right-hander, as he surrendered three solo home runs and two RBI doubles Tuesday. Maeda has yet to find his groove this season with a 6.56 ERA, 1.76 WHIP and 20:5 K:BB through 23.1 innings. He'll attempt to turn things around early next week versus the Rangers.
Apr 21 2021Maeda didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 13-12 extra-inning loss to the A's, coughing up seven runs on eight hits -- including three home runs -- over three innings. He struck out one without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander got taken deep twice by Matt Olson and once by Seth Brown and got the hook after only 51 pitches (37 strikes), but Maeda was quickly taken off the hook for the loss in a wild back-and-forth affair. He'll take a 6.11 ERA and 17:5 K:BB through 17.2 innings into his next start Tuesday in Cleveland.
Apr 14 2021Maeda (1-1) gave up three runs (one earned) on seven hits and two walks while fanning five across 4.1 innings in the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Red Sox. He was tagged with the loss. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda was coming off a strong six-inning, two-run outing the last time out, but he was unable to slow down Boston's red-hot offense and surrendered his first loss of the campaign while posting his shortest start as well. He will try to turn things around in his next start, scheduled for April 19 on the road against the Athletics.
Apr 7 2021Maeda (1-0) earned the win Wednesday at Detroit after allowing two runs on seven hits with six strikeouts and one walk over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander threw 52 of 75 pitches for strikes as he enjoyed an efficient afternoon against the Tigers. Maeda delivered 88 pitches Opening Day, so the low workload Wednesday is likely just a precaution early in the season. The 31-year-old has given up four runs (three earned) on 13 hits with 11 strikeouts and three walks across 10.1 innings through his first two starts of the season, and he lines up to face Boston early next week.
Mar 14 2021Manager Rocco Baldelli named Maeda the starter for Opening Day against the Brewers on April 1, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 32-year-old had a dominant first year in Minnesota last season with a 2.70 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 80:10 K:BB across 66.2 innings, so it's not much of a surprise to see him at the head of the rotation for 2021. Maeda is hoping to utilize his curveball more this season after throwing it on only 3.4 percent of pitches in 2020.
Mar 4 2021Maeda threw two scoreless innings with three strikeouts in his spring debut in Thursday's loss to Tampa Bay. Maeda worked on his curveball, which he hopes to use more this season. "I don't think the curveball's going to be my payoff pitch with two strikes, but concentrating on the command, I'd like it to be a pitch that I can control to get strikes consistently," Maeda told MLB.com. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda threw his curveball 3.4 percent of the time last season, so he's likely trying to add something extra rather than revamp his approach. It's hard to find much to improve after he went 6-1 with a 2.70 ERA and finishing runner up in the AL Cy Young award voting last season. The only question is whether he can remain as effective while holding up over a full season after his innings were limited in 2017-19 with the Dodgers.
Sep 29 2020Maeda allowed two hits and three walks over five scoreless innings in a no-decision against the Astros in the first game of the AL Wild Card Series. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda held up his end of the bargain, but the team couldn't come through in Game 1. With that, the Twins have now lost 17 consecutive postseason games, an MLB record. Maeda was brilliant during his first regular season in Minnesota, going 6-1 with a 2.70 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 80:10 K:BB in 66.2 innings. If he starts again this year, it will be in the American League Division Series.
Sep 23 2020Maeda (6-1) earned the win Wednesday against the Tigers. He allowed three runs on four hits while fanning nine across six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda posted a quality start in his final start of the 2020 regular season, and he couldn't have wished for a better end of the campaign. The former Dodgers hurler ended the regular season with a 2.70 ERA and is expected to play a big role for the Twins in the postseason as one of Minnesota's top arms. He also ended the regular season striking out at least seven in each of his final seven outings.
Sep 17 2020Maeda allowed two runs on five hits and struck out eight over five innings Thursday night against the White Sox. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda cruised through the first three innings before surrendering a solo homer in the fourth and a solo shot in the fifth. He'd exit with the game tied at two and without a chance to pick up the victory. Despite the no-decision, he's putting up a stellar season, posting a 2.52 ERA and 0.76 WHIP to go with 71 punchouts across 60.2 frames. Maeda's next start lines up for Wednesday against Detroit.
Sep 11 2020Maeda (5-1) did not allow a run while giving up four hits and two walks across seven innings as he earned the win Friday against the Indians. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda tossed seven shutout innings as he engaged in a pitcher's duel with Shane Bieber all night. It was the 32-year-old's second scoreless outing this season with both coincidentally coming against the Indians. The Twins have gotten a great bargain out of Maeda from their offseason trade with the Dodgers as he is enjoying a career year highlighted by his 2.43 ERA and 63:10 K:BB. He'll look to keep things rolling in a tough road matchup against the White Sox on Wednesday.
Sep 6 2020Maeda didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 4-3 win over the Tigers, giving up three runs on two hits and a walk over six-plus innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He was locked in a 1-1 pitchers' duel with rookie Tarik Skubal heading into the seventh inning, but after Maeda gave up a walk and a single to begin the frame he got the hook and had to watch as Tyler Clippard allowed both inherited runners to score. It was still Maeda's second straight quality start and his sixth of the season, and he'll carry a 2.77 ERA, 0.72 WHIP and massive 56:8 K:BB through 48.2 innings into his next outing Sept. 12, at home against Cleveland.
Aug 30 2020Maeda (4-1) allowed three runs on six hits and no walks while striking out eight over six innings as he was charged with the loss Sunday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda has posted his three highest strikeout totals of the season over his past three starts as he's struck out 27 batters during that time, but he's only earned one win during that time. Sunday's loss was his first of the season as the Twins couldn't generate much run production. The righty now carries a 2.53 ERA and 48:7 K:BB over 42.2 innings this season. He'll get another chance to face the Tigers on Friday at Target Field.
Aug 29 2020Maeda's scheduled start was pushed back to Sunday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda won't take the mound during Saturday's twin bill as the team will likely utilize its bullpen during the second game. Pushing Maeda's start back by a day allows Rich Hill to get an extra day of rest, as he should start Monday. Maeda is 4-0 with a 2.21 ERA and 40:7 K:BB over 36.2 innings this season.
Aug 24 2020Maeda (4-0) allowed one run on five hits and a walk across five innings Monday, striking out seven and earning the win over Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After allowing a leadoff homer to Cesar Hernandez in the first innings, Maeda silenced Cleveland's lineup and dominated for the rest of his outing. In all five of his starts this season, he's thrown at least five innings and given up three or fewer runs. After Monday's strong performance, Maeda is sporting a stellar 2.21 ERA and 40:7 K:BB. He'll look to move to a perfect 5-0 in a road start against Detroit on Saturday.
Aug 21 2020Maeda will next start Monday in Cleveland rather than Sunday in Kansas City as previously scheduled, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda will get an extra day to rest after carrying a no-hitter into the ninth inning Tuesday against the Brewers and throwing 115 pitches. He'll lose out on a potential two-start week this week but will likely get one next week, as he'll line up to start both Monday in Cleveland and Saturday in Detroit. The Twins haven't announced who will start Sunday in his previously scheduled spot.
Aug 18 2020Maeda pitched eight innings against Milwaukee on Tuesday, allowing one run on one hit and two walks while striking out 12. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda carried a no-hit bid into the ninth inning, only to have Eric Sogard spoil the effort with a leadoff single. Worse yet, Maeda ended up with a no-decision in spite of his masterful performance when the Minnesota bullpen failed to preserve a three-run lead following the right-hander's departure. Nonetheless, Maeda continued an already-strong start to his tenure with the Twins, notching a season-high 12 strikeouts while registering his fourth consecutive quality start. As evidence of his dominance, he induced 26 swinging strikes and didn't allow a runner to get past first base in his eight frames. The 32-year-old lowered his ERA to 2.27 on the campaign and now sports a 33:6 K:BB across 31.2 innings. His next start will come on the road against Kansas City on Thursday.
Aug 12 2020Maeda (3-0) earned the win Wednesday versus the Brewers, allowing two runs on five hits and a walk and striking out five in 6.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda got 12 runs of support from the Twins, making it easy for him to collect his third win in four starts. The right-hander has a 2.66 ERA, 0.72 WHIP and 21 strikeouts across 23.2 innings this season. Maeda is expected to make his next start Monday versus the Royals.
Aug 6 2020Maeda allowed three earned runs on on three hits and one walk while striking out four across six innings Thursday against the Pirates. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda didn't allow a baserunner in four of the six innings he pitched and dominated the Pirates for most of the outing. However, he ran into trouble in the second inning when he allowed the first two batters he faced to reach base hit before allowing a three-run home run to Gregory Polanco. Maeda's otherwise strong performance was a continuation of earlier outings this season, and he now has a 2.65 ERA with a 16:3 K:BB in 17 innings. He's currently in line to draw his next start Tuesday at Milwaukee.
Aug 1 2020Maeda (2-0) picked up the win in Saturday's 3-0 victory over Cleveland, giving up just one hit and one walk over six scoreless innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 32-year-old has looked very, very good to begin his tenure with the Twins, posting a 1.64 ERA and 12:1 K:BB over his first two starts and 11 innings for the club. Maeda will take aim at his third straight win when he takes the mound next Friday in Kansas City.
Jul 26 2020Maeda (1-0) tossed five innings Sunday, earning the win while allowing two runs against the White Sox. He struck out six batters and walked one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda cruised through four scoreless innings before Luis Robert took him deep in the fifth to finally put the White Sox on the board. The 32-year-old righty will be relied on heavily as a middle-of-the-rotation arm this season with the Twins. Expect Maeda to take the mound at home next weekend against Cleveland.
Jul 21 2020Maeda gave up three runs over five innings with seven strikeouts and threw 85 pitches in Monday's scrimmage, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Maeda looks ready for the regular season and may not be limited in his first few outings. The 31-year-old was moved to the bullpen multiple times in the last couple years given the Dodgers' plethora of starting options, but he should have a solidified spot in the Twins' starting rotation in 2020.
Feb 24 2020Maeda gave up a run, on a home run, with a strikeout over two innings in his Twins debut in Saturday's spring training win over Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Minnesota has said that Maeda will be part of the starting rotation and there's no indication he may be used in the bullpen at times like he was with the Dodgers. He moved to the bullpen in September each of the last two seasons in Los Angeles. His 26.4 K% and 8.3 BB% as a starter should help make Maeda an above-average starter with the Twins.
Feb 9 2020The Dodgers agreed to a deal Sunday that sends Maeda and cash to the Twins in return for Brusdar Graterol, Luke Raley and the 67th pick in the 2020 draft, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Following the drama between the Red Sox and Twins involving Graterol's medical history, it was uncertain whether the 31-year-old would find a new home before spring training arrived. Maeda finished the 2019 season with a 4.04 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 169:51 K:BB across 26 starts. The veteran makes the move to another playoff contender and will likely compete for a spot near the top of the Twins' rotation during spring training.
Feb 8 2020Maeda will not be heading to Minnesota after the Twins withdrew from the reported three-team deal between them, the Dodgers and the Red Sox on Saturday, Chris Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The issue surrounded Brusdar Graterol, who was supposed to head from Minnesota to Boston. The Red Sox balked at Graterol's medical history and demanded an additional prospect from the Twins, who elected to withdraw from the deal rather than send an additional player. As a result, Maeda won't be headed from Los Angeles to Minnesota. Whether he winds up being sent elsewhere as the Dodgers and Red Sox search for a new partner or if the deal winds up being called off entirely remains to be seen.
Feb 4 2020Maeda is heading from the Dodgers to the Twins on Tuesday in a three-team trade with the Red Sox that includes Mookie Betts, David Price, Alex Verdugo and pitching prospect Brusdar Graterol, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Betts and Price will join the Dodgers while Verdugo and Graterol head to the Red Sox in the deal. Maeda has mostly worked as a starter for Los Angeles over the last four seasons, and he had a 4.04 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 169:51 K:BB over 153.2 innings last season. The 31-year-old was moved to the bullpen multiple times in the last couples years given the Dodgers dearth of starting options, but he should have a more solidified spot in the Twins' starting rotation in 2020.
Sep 26 2019Maeda struck out two batters without allowing a baserunner to earn the save Thursday against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kenley Jansen closed the Dodgers' victories Tuesday and Wednesday, so the team opted to rest him in favor of Maeda for the final outs Thursday. Maeda proved up to the task, striking out the first two batters he faced before inducing a popup to retire the final hitter. He's shifted to a one-inning role since Sept. 12 and turned in six scoreless efforts in seven appearances since.
Sep 16 2019Maeda pitched two-thirds of an inning against the Mets on Sunday, allowing a walk but no hits or runs to record the save. He struck out one batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Usual closer Kenley Jansen was deployed in the eighth inning, so Maeda was called upon to wrap up the win. He issued a two-out walk to Robinson Cano but subsequently struck out Joe Panik to record his second save. The 31-year-old doesn't figure to get many more opportunities to close moving forward, but he is a vital piece on the Dodgers' staff as a multi-faceted veteran capable of filling many roles. Maeda has been a starter most of the season, but he figures to stick in the bullpen through September as the team prepares him for high-leverage relief situations in the playoffs.
Sep 8 2019Maeda will be used in high-leverage relief situations in the postseason, J.P. Hoornstra of the Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since being moved to the bullpen in early September, Maeda has been used as a long reliever, making two appearances of four innings apiece. However, manager Dave Roberts indicated Sunday that this is not the role Maeda will take in the playoffs; rather, the 31-year-old will be used in the same important high-leverage situations that he has thrived in the past two postseasons. In 17 playoff relief appearances between 2017 and 2018, Maeda pitched 17.1 innings and compiled a 2.08 ERA and 1.10 WHIP.
Sep 2 2019Maeda was credited with the save against the Rockies on Monday, giving up three earned runs on four hits over four innings, striking out five and walking none as
Aug 29 2019Maeda gave up gave up two runs on two hits and three walks while striking out three through five innings in a no-decision against the Padres on Wednesday.
Aug 22 2019Maeda did not factor into the decision against Toronto on Thursday, hurling six innings and giving up two runs on four hits and one walk while striking out nine.
Aug 16 2019Maeda didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 8-3 win over Atlanta, allowing three runs on five hits and four walks over 4.2 innings while striking out nine.
Aug 10 2019Maeda (8-8) earned the win by pitching seven scoreless innings, allowing just three hits while striking out six in Saturday's 4-0 win over the Diamondbacks.
Aug 4 2019Maeda did not factor into the decision against the Padres on Sunday, completing 2.2 innings and allowing five runs on five hits and one walk while striking out
Jul 29 2019Maeda (7-8) took the loss against the Rockies on Monday, giving up six runs (five earned) on seven hits over four innings, striking out five and walking two as the
Jul 24 2019Maeda (7-7) took the loss against the Angels on Tuesday, hurling 4.1 innings and giving up three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out seven.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 18 2019Manager Dave Roberts said that Maeda will likely pitch an inning in relief Friday or Saturday against the Marlins before slotting back into the rotation Tuesday against the Angels, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 17 2019Maeda allowed no hits and two walks while striking out three across two scoreless innings Wednesday against the Phillies. He did not factor into the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 12 2019Maeda (7-6) gave up three runs on four hits and one walk while striking out seven in 5.2 innings Friday in Boston.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 7 2019Maeda (7-5) took the loss Saturday, giving up three runs on four hits and a walk over 7.2 innings while striking out six as the Dodgers were downed 3-1 by the Padres.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Maeda allowed two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five over 4.1 innings in a no-decision against the Rockies on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019Maeda allowed two runs on three hits and two walks while striking out five over 4.1 innings Sunday against the Rockies. He didn't factor into the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 26 2019Maeda will start Sunday against the Rockies, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 23 2019Maeda did not factor into the decision against Colorado on Sunday, giving up two runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out six.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 22 2019Maeda (hand) is listed as the Dodgers' probable starter<\/a> for Sunday's game against the Rockies.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 18 2019X-rays on Maeda's right hand returned negative after he was sent in for testing following his departure from Monday's 3-2 loss to the Giants, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 18 2019Maeda (wrist) will get an extra day of rest before his next start, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 17 2019Maeda (7-4) took the loss against the Giants on Monday, giving up two earned runs on three hits over five innings, striking out four and walking two in a 3-2 defeat for the Dodgers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 12 2019Maeda (7-3) took the loss against the Angels on Tuesday, pitching 4.1 innings and giving up five runs on three hits and three walks while striking out four.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Maeda allowed one run on two hits with seven strikeouts and one walk across five innings during a no-decision against the Diamondbacks on Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 31 2019Maeda (7-2) pitched six innings, allowing two runs on three hits and striking out six to earn the win in Friday's 6-3 win over the Phillies.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019Maeda (6-2) yielded three runs on five hits and struck out four over five innings Sunday in a win against the Pirates.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019The Dodgers activated Maeda (thigh) from the 10-day injured list ahead of his scheduled start Sunday against the Pirates, Jorge Castillo of the Los Angeles Times<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 22 2019Maeda (thigh) will come off the injured list to start Sunday's game in Pittsburgh, Pedro Moura of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 17 2019Maeda (thigh) is expected to throw \"an aggressive bullpen\" session either Tuesday or Wednesday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 17 2019Maeda was placed on the 10-day injured list<\/a> with a left adductor contusion Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Maeda will head to the 10-day injured list after hitting a foul ball off his thigh during an at-bat Wednesday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Maeda is expected to be placed on the 10-day injured list Friday with an undisclosed injury, Juan Toribio of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Maeda (5-2) picked up the win in Wednesday's 2-0 victory over the Padres, scattering three hits over 6.2 scoreless innings while striking out a season-high 12.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 12 2019Maeda will have his next start changed from Friday to Wednesday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 12 2019Maeda will have his next start moved up from Friday to Wednesday for a home outing against the Padres, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 11 2019Maeda (4-2) gave up just one hit and two walks while striking out six over six scoreless innings in a win over the Nationals on Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 24 2018Maeda did not factor in the decision during Tuesday's 16-inning loss to the Phillies, allowing four runs on six hits over seven innings. He struck out seven and did not issue a walk.Maeda was downright dominant through six innings Tuesday -- one run allowed on three hits -- but was tagged for three runs in the seventh inning, including a two-run bomb from Jorge Alfaro to tie the game 4-4. It was still a solid start for Maeda, but was this first time since mid-May he allowed more than three runs. The 30-year-old will carry a 3.27 ERA and 1.20 WHIP into his expected start against the Brewers next Monday.
Jul 16 2018Maeda faced two hitters in relief and picked up the win Sunday in the Dodgers' 5-3 win over the Angels. He hit a batter and struck out another to strand the bases loaded in the top of the seventh inning.Though Maeda had started just three days earlier, manager Dave Roberts elected to make the starter available out of the bullpen with the impending All-Star break affording the right-hander ample rest. The decision paid dividends for the Dodgers, as Maeda cleaned up the mess created by starter Clayton Kershaw, who exited with two outs and two runners on in a tie game. After Maeda put out the fire, he watched as the Dodgers took the lead on Enrique Hernandez's solo home run in the bottom of the seventh, securing the 30-year-old his seventh win of the season. Maeda's second-half outlook remains somewhat murky, as the Dodgers are expected to recall Walker Buehler from the minors after the break and would then have to send a starter to the bullpen if Roberts opts to stick with a five-man rotation.
Jul 11 2018Maeda (6-5) allowed one run on four hits and a walk and struck out nine through 5.2 innings in a win Wednesday over the Padres.Maeda's changeup was dancing Wednesday night, as he induced nine swinging strikes with it on just 24 pitches and Padres hitters managed to put it in play just once. Maeda hasn't given up more than three earned runs in a start since May 11 against Cincinnati. Maeda will carry a 3.13 ERA into the break and has been absolutely lights out in his last nine starts, in which he has struck out 61 against just 19 walks with a pristine 1.97 ERA.
Jul 10 2018Maeda was activated from the paternity list Tuesday.The trip to the paternity list did not end up affecting Maeda's schedule, as he last threw Friday and is set to throw against Wednesday. Edward Paredes was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City in a corresponding move.
Jul 7 2018Maeda was placed on the paternity list Saturday, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic Los Angeles reports.Maeda didn't factor in the decision with 5.2 strong innings Friday so this is unlikely to affect his next scheduled start -- Wednesday against the Padres -- since the paternity list is a maximum of three days. Recent trade acquisition Dylan Floro takes Maeda's spot on the 25-man roster to provide some bullpen help for the Dodgers.
Jul 6 2018Maeda didn't factor into the decision against the Angels on Friday, despite a strong outing that saw him give up one earned run on three hits over 5.2 innings, striking out nine and walking two in the Dodgers' eventual 3-2 defeat.Maeda has been on fire over his last three starts, as he's now yielded just three earned runs and struck out 27 batters over his last 19.2 innings. He boasts a solid 3.24 ERA, a 1.25 WHIP and a 98:31 K:BB through 80.1 innings this season, and will look to keep his recent run of form going in his next start on the road against the Padres next Wednesday.
Jun 30 2018Maeda (5-5) lost to the Rockies on Saturday despite throwing seven innings. He allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits and two walks while striking out nine.The Dodgers wasted his quality start as they struggled to solve German Marquez, who was perfect through five innings and kept them guessing throughout his eight. Maeda (5-5, 3.36 ERA, 10.7 K/9, 3.5 BB/9) has fanned nine batters in back-to-back outings, though, and deserves continued fantasy confidence Friday ahead of his scheduled trip to the Angels for the latest Freeway Series.
Jun 26 2018Maeda (5-4) tossed seven shutout innings and allowed just three hits and a walk with nine strikeouts to earn his fifth victory Monday against the Cubs.Maeda bounced back brilliantly from a shaky start last time out, also against the Cubs, in which he lasted just 3.2 innings. He induced a ridiculous 19 swinging strikes in just 84 pitches against a strong Cubs lineup and came just short of his fourth double-digit strikeout game. Maeda has had a few disastrous outings -- he has allowed more runs than innings pitched three times in 2018 -- but when he's on, he's well nigh unhittable, as he has now struck out 80 batters in just 68 innings. He'll take a 3.44 ERA in to his next start Saturday against the Rockies.
Jun 19 2018Maeda did not factor in the decision after allowing three runs on five hits over 3.2 innings during the win over the Cubs in Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader. He had two strikeouts and issued five walks.The five walks set a new season high for Maeda as he threw only 40 of 74 pitches for strikes, forcing the Dodgers' bullpen to cover 5.1 innings during Game 1 of the doubleheader. The 30-year-old now has a 3.84 ERA and 1.39 WHIP with a 71:26 K:BB across 61 innings this season, and lines up to either face the Mets on Sunday or the Cubs next Monday.
Jun 18 2018Maeda will start Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Dodgers, after Monday's matchup was postponed due to weather, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.Maeda warmed up multiple times in anticipation of Monday's game, but poor weather combined with a power outage prevented the tilt from ever beginning. He's slated to start his 13th game of the season, as he's posted a 3.61 ERA and 1.31 WHIP WITH A 69:21 K:BB through 57.1 innings in 2018.
Jun 14 2018Maeda allowed two runs on five hits and three walks with one strikeout over five innings in a no-decision Wednesday against Texas.The Dodgers limited Maeda to 76 pitches as he was making his first start since May 29 due to a hip injury. Maeda didn't miss many bats, as he induced just six swinging strikes, but his eight groundballs ensured the game didn't get out of hand. Before the injury, Maeda was on fire, having thrown 14.2 shutout innings with 20 strikeouts and just four hits and four walks allowed in his two starts before the outing in which he suffered the hip injury. He wasn't quite in that form Wednesday, but he'll get another chance to find it next time out Tuesday against the Cubs.
Jun 13 2018Maeda (hip) was activated from the 10-day disabled list and will start Wednesday against the Rangers.As expected, Maeda is set to rejoin the Dodgers' rotation after missing the past two weeks with a hip strain. Prior to landing on the shelf, the right-hander compiled a solid 3.61 ERA and 68:18 K:BB across 52.1 innings (10 starts, one relief appearance). Daniel Corcino was sent back to Triple-A in a corresponding roster move.
Jun 12 2018Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Maeda (hip) would be activated from the 10-day disabled list to start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.Maeda completed a bullpen session Sunday without incident, so he'll rejoin the rotation after missing about two weeks with the strained right hip. The right-hander's addition comes at a vital time with Ross Stripling representing the only other regular in the Los Angeles rotation that is at full strength. Alex Wood (hamstring) and Walker Buehler (ribs) both succumbed to injuries in their most recent outings, while the Dodgers continue to wait for Clayton Kershaw (back), Rich Hill (finger) and Hyun-Jin Ryu (groin) to return from the DL.
Jun 10 2018Maeda (hip) feels ready to start Wednesday's game against the Rangers, Pedro Moura of The Athletic Los Angeles reports.Maeda's availability for Wednesday's game was dependent on the results of his Sunday bullpen session. After his session, he said he felt fine and was prepared to make the start. The team hasn't officially named him the starter, but all signs point to him returning from the disabled list Wednesday.
Jun 10 2018Maeda (hip) will start Wednesday against the Rangers if his Sunday bullpen session goes well, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.Maeda is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Sunday which will determine his availability for Wednesday's contest. The starter last pitched on May 29 and currently owns a 3.61 ERA over 52.1 innings this season. An update on his status should become available following his throwing session.
Jun 9 2018Maeda (hip) could return from the disabled list following Sunday's bullpen session, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda had a successful bullpen session Friday and another successful outing Sunday could put him on track to start against the Rangers on Tuesday. The 30-year-old hit the disabled list May 30 with a right hip strain and is poised to miss little more than the 10-day minimum.
Jun 8 2018Maeda (hip) is aiming to return from the disabled list sometime next week, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was initially hoping for a weekend activation, but the Dodgers don't believe he's ready just yet, as he wasn't listed among the probable starters against Atlanta. He was able to throw a solid bullpen session Friday, and if all goes well, he figures to be activated within the next week.
Jun 7 2018Maeda (hip) isn't listed among the Dodgers' probable starting pitchers for the team's weekend series against the Braves, Eric Stephen of TrueBlueLA.com reports.The right hip strain that landed Maeda on the 10-day disabled list last week isn't viewed as a significant, but the right-hander won't be activated over the weekend when first eligible. There's no indication that Maeda suffered a setback in his recovery over the last couple of days and it's not expected that he'll require a rehab assignment, so a return during the upcoming week could be in the offing. The Dodgers should provide more clarity regarding their rotation plans following their series finale with Atlanta on Sunday.
Jun 2 2018Maeda (hip) figures to be the first of the Dodgers' five starters on the disabled list to return to the big-league rotation, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.He will reportedly not need a rehab assignment before rejoining the team, which theoretically could be as early as next week. Rich Hill (blister) is expected to be the second pitcher to return while Clayton Kershaw (back), Hyun-Jin Ryu (groin) and Julio Urias (shoulder) won't return until July at the earliest.
May 30 2018Maeda (hip) is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Wednesday, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.After receiving visits on the mound from team trainers on two occasions Tuesday, Maeda was pulled in the second inning of his start against the Phillies due to a right hip strain. Following the contest, manager Dave Roberts called Maeda's injury "a potential DL situation," but the Dodgers will wait for the results of the MRI before deciding Maeda's fate. If Maeda is unable to make his next scheduled turn Sunday against the Rockies, the Dodgers could turn to Brock Stewart or newly-recalled prospect Dennis Santana for a spot start.
May 30 2018Maeda (hip) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Wednesday.Maeda was removed from his start against the Phillies on Tuesday after just two innings with a right hip strain, and a subsequent MRI confirmed the issue to be serious enough to warrant a trip to the disabled list. According to Ken Gurnick of MLB.com, manager Dave Roberts said the hope is that Maeda will only be forced to miss one start while on the shelf, though he won't be rushed back. Dennis Santana was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City in a corresponding roster move and is an option to start in Maeda's place over the weekend.
May 29 2018Maeda left Tuesday's game against the Phillies after 1.2 innings with an apparent injury, Pedro Moura of The Athletic Los Angeles reports.Manager Dave Roberts and the athletic trainer visited the mound twice in the second inning, ultimately removing Maeda after the second visit. The 30-year-old allowed two runs on three hits and a walk, recording two strikeouts. The specifics and severity of the injury are currently unclear.
May 29 2018Maeda exited Tuesday's game against the Phillies with a right hip strain, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was visited by the athletic trainer twice in the second inning and lasted only 1.2 innings Tuesday, allowing two runs on three hits and a walk. The severity of the injury remains unclear, and the 30-year-old should be considered day-to-day for now.
May 24 2018Maeda (4-3) fired 6.2 scoreless innings Wednesday, allowing two hits while walking four and striking out a season-high 12 while picking up the win over the Rockies.Maeda was in fine form Wednesday, inducing 19 swinging strikes and not allowing a hit until the fifth inning. This comes on the heels of his dominant eight-inning shutout performance against the Marlins on May 17. The 30-year-old lowered his ERA to 3.38 through 10 starts, but more notably, the righty is striking out a career-best 11.7 batters per nine innings. Maeda will look to build on his current hot streak in his next turn against the Phillies next Monday.
May 17 2018Maeda (3-3) picked up the win Thursday against the Marlins, allowing just two hits across eight scoreless innings while striking out eight and walking none.After allowing five runs through just 4.2 innings against the Reds in his last start, Maeda bounced back with what was easily his best outing of the season. The right-hander was fantastic throughout Thursday's winning effort, allowing just two Marlins to reach base all evening while sitting down the final 17 batters he faced. He needed just 96 pitches -- 71 of which were strikes -- to get through eight innings, marking just the second time in 65 big-league starts that Maeda has completed eight frames. While the 30-year-old has now dominated in two starts against the lowly Marlins this season, allowing just one run across 14 innings, he owns a mediocre 5.40 ERA across 30 innings in his other seven appearances (six starts, one relief appearance). Still, he'll carry a solid 3.89 ERA and 11.0 K/9 into his next start, which will come at home against the Rockies.
May 11 2018Maeda (2-3) took the loss, giving up five earned runs on nine hits in 4.2 innings, striking out five and walking two as the Dodgers fell to the Reds 6-2 on Friday.Maeda was knocked around by Cincinnati in this one and saw his ERA move to 4.75 and his WHIP to 1.53 with the performance. He's got a solid 46:13 K:BB through 36 innings but he's had a handful of rough outings that have bloated his ratios and limited his fantasy impact to this point in the season. He'll look to get on track in a favorable matchup against the Marlins next Thursday.
May 5 2018Maeda allowed three runs on four hits and a walk across five innings in a no-decision Saturday against the Padres. He struck out seven.Maeda struggled out of the gate Saturday, serving up a leadoff triple to Travis Jankowski before Eric Hosmer brought them both home with a two-run homer in the next at-bat. He settled in from there, however, retiring the next three batters and allowing just one run on two hits and a walk over the next four innings. Maeda is striking out batters at a career-best rate (11.8 K/9), but he's only completed six innings twice this season and his 4.02 ERA and 1.40 WHIP are nothing to write home about. A home start against the Reds is next on the docket.
May 2 2018Dodgers manager Dave Roberts relayed Tuesday that Maeda will likely receive his next start Friday or Saturday against the Padres in Monterrey, Mexico, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.According to J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News, Roberts initially suggested that Alex Wood and Walker Buehler would likely start the first two games of the series in Mexico in some order, but it appears the Dodgers skipper may have misspoken. Instead, Wood will apparently be kept in his normal spot in the pitching schedule and take the hill Thursday in Arizona, per MLB.com, leaving Maeda to slot into the rotation over the weekend. An outing against the 11-20 Padres should be a more favorable one for Maeda than a matchup with the division-leading Diamondbacks, though the prospect of pitching in an unfamiliar environment may make him a more risky fantasy option than he would be at Dodger Stadium or Petco Park.
May 2 2018Maeda is scheduled to start Saturday against the Padres in Monterrey, Mexico, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.The Dodgers opted to give the ball to Walker Buehler for the series opener, leaving Maeda and Rich Hill (finger) to close out the final two games of the series, respectively. The 30-year-old has allowed four runs in two of his past three starts, but he'll look to get back on track in what should be a favorable matchup against the 11-21 Padres.
Apr 29 2018Maeda (2-2) allowed four runs on five hits and four walks across six innings while taking the loss Sunday against the Giants. He struck out three.Maeda had walked just six through his first five outings of the season, but he struggled to put hitters away in this one and uncharacteristically issued four free passes. One of those came back to bite him as Evan Longoria launched a three-run home run in the first inning, and another in the third on Brandon Belt's RBI double. This sub-par outing raised Maeda's ERA to 3.76, but his 1.48 WHIP indicates that things could get worse if he doesn't rein in the baserunners. He'll look to do just that in a favorable matchup with the Padres next weekend.
Apr 25 2018Maeda struck out seven and walked one in a no-decision loss to the Marlins on Tuesday, allowing one run on four hits through six innings.Maeda's lone run allowed was a solo home run by J.T. Realmuto in the third. Otherwise, Maeda was very good in Tuesday's outing. He's now brought his ERA down to 3.10, although his WHIP (1.48) and BABIP (.434) are still pretty high. Since he's come into the league in 2016, Maeda has been an excellent strikeout pitcher (9.26 K/9 over the last two seasons combined), and so far this year he's been even better, recording 31 strikeouts in 20.1 innings. With the Dodgers playing a double-header on Saturday, Maeda's next start should be against the Giants in San Francisco on Sunday.
Apr 19 2018Maeda (2-1) allowed four runs on eight hits and two walks and struck out 10 through 5.2 innings to pick up the win Wednesday over the Padres.For the second time in 2018, Maeda lasted into the fifth inning, and for the second time, he struck out at least 10 batters. When healthy, Maeda can be as nasty as it gets, but reliability has been an issue both throughout his entire career and already thus far in 2018. That 24:5 K:BB in 14.1 innings, though, is awfully hard to ignore.
Apr 14 2018Maeda (1-1) took the loss Friday against the Diamondbacks, giving up five runs (two earned) on five hits and two walks over 2.2 innings while striking out two.It had been two weeks since Maeda's last start, with only a one-inning relief appearance in between, and while his defense did him no favors, he also wasn't sharp within the zone despite throwing 41 of 65 pitches for strikes. The right-hander still has a 2.08 ERA and 14:3 K:BB through 8.2 innings, and now that he's back on a regular schedule, he should be able to produce a better result Wednesday on the road against the Padres.
Apr 11 2018Maeda is listed as the Dodgers' probable starter for Friday's game against the Diamondbacks, MLB.com reports.After Maeda's previous turn in the rotation was skipped last week due to a rainout in San Francisco, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had previously indicated that the right-hander would reenter the starting ranks at some point during the upcoming weekend series. It appears the Dodgers have now finalized their rotation plans, so don't expect Maeda to be available out of the bullpen for Wednesday's series finale against the Athletics like he had been earlier in the week.
Apr 8 2018Maeda will rejoin the starting rotation during the Dodgers' upcoming weekend series against the Diamondbacks from April 13 to April 15, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was used in relief this weekend, tossing a scoreless inning Saturday against the Giants. Manager Dave Roberts stated that Maeda would start a game during the series against the Diamondbacks, but he has yet to decide which game of the series that will be.
Apr 7 2018Maeda will return to the Dodgers' bullpen for the next week, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was scheduled to start Friday against the Giants but the game was postponed due to rain, and given the Dodgers have a pair of off days next week he will return to a bullpen role for the time being. The 29-year-old pitched well as a reliever for Los Angeles in 2017 and may not have another start until the series at San Diego, which begins April 16.
Apr 6 2018The Dodgers' game against San Francisco on Friday was postponed due to incoming rain, which will push back Maeda's scheduled start, Alanna Rizzo of SportsNetLA reports.The club has yet to provide an updated list of their rotation for the rest of this series, so it remains to be seen whether Maeda will be pushed back a day or skipped in the rotation. Maeda was expected to face Derek Holland on Friday. During his first start of the season against the Giants on Saturday, Maeda picked up a win by allowing just five hits and a walk over five scoreless innings, while adding 10 strikeouts. The postponed game will be rescheduled as a doubleheader on April 28.
Apr 6 2018Maeda will have his start skipped, Alana Rizzo of SportsNet LA reports.Maeda was initially tabbed for Friday's game against the Giants, but the game was rained out. Instead of bumping his start back a day, the Dodgers will keep Rich Hill and Clayton Kershaw on their normal starting schedules, squeezing Maeda out of a start over the weekend. No word has come forth as to when the right-hander will make his next start, but he could line up for a start during the two-game set with the Athletics next week.
Apr 4 2018Maeda is available in the bullpen Wednesday, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.Maeda will just be an insurance policy for the team Wednesday, though he may end up having his start skipped this time through the rotation, which could leave him as a bullpen option for a few more days. After starting the third game of the season Saturday against the Giants, Maeda's next natural start date would be Thursday, but the Dodgers are off that day. They could be off again Friday, as that day's game appears to be threatened by rain. Maeda could remain in the bullpen in order to keep the Dodgers' other starters on regular rest. He had success there during the playoffs in 2017, tossing 10.2 innings with an 0.84 ERA.
Apr 4 2018Maeda will start Friday's game against the Giants, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was reportedly available out of the bullpen for Wednesday's contest, but after going unused, the Dodgers can insert him back into the rotation. The 29-year-old struck out 10 in across five innings in his first start of the season. He'll look to keep the good times going when he faces Derek Holland in San Francisco on Friday.
Apr 1 2018Maeda (1-0) picked up the win over the Giants on Saturday, tossing five scoreless innings and allowing five hits and a walk while striking out 10.The outing wasn't quite as dominant as it looks on paper, as Maeda allowed baserunners in every inning, but he was able to squash any hint of a rally from the Giants. The right-hander will face off with San Francisco again Friday, this time in AT&T Park, and given how sluggish the Giants' offense looked in the opening series, another big performance could be in store for Maeda.
Mar 19 2018Maeda was officially named as the Dodgers' third starter to kick off the regular season, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.The club had been increasing the veteran's workload all spring in anticipation to start, but there was always the risk that one of the back-end starters could get bumped in favor of the promising Walker Buehler. That scenario was put to rest when the rookie was sent to the minors earlier this week, officially securing a rotation spot for Maeda. The 29-year-old took a step back from his solid rookie season in 2017, posting a 4.22 ERA and receiving a brief demotion to the bullpen. Despite his struggles, the righty posted a strong 4.1 K/BB ratio, giving him value when he was being used as a starter. The Dodgers' starting pitcher options have dwindled from last year's 10-man pool, but Maeda will still have to carryover his success from the playoffs last season in order to preserve his spot in the rotation if/when the aforementioned Buehler gets called up.
Mar 10 2018Maeda gave up one run on three hits while walking one and striking out four over three innings in a spring win over the Royals on Friday.Maeda worked around a leadoff home run to Whit Merrifield to turn in a solid pitching line. The veteran has seen his workload increase with each spring outing -- including an additional inning in the bullpen following this start, which suggests he will begin the 2018 campaign in the Dodgers' rotation. We saw mixed results from Maeda in his sophomore season (primarily as a starter) after he posted a 4.22 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and a 9.4 K/9 over 134.1 innings. The key difference between his rookie year and last season was a sharp increase in home runs allowed (1.5 HR/9). If he can keep the ball down, Maeda has a chance to hold down his rotation spot all season.
Feb 27 2018Maeda threw two shutout innings while logging one stikeout and one walk in Tuesday's Cactus League outing against the Rangers.Maeda ended the 2017 season as one of the Dodgers' most reliable postseason relievers. Over 10.2 innings, he allowed just one run while posting a 10:2 K:BB. Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reported that Maeda is on track to open the upcoming season as a member of the Dodgers' rotation. As the season approaches, manager Dave Roberts has said that he wants Maeda to continue aggressively pitching in the strike zone, a style that the 29-year-old effectively used during Los Angeles' most recent postseason run.
Dec 12 2017Manager Dave Roberts said Maeda is expected to start next season, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda will return to the rotation after pitching out of the Dodgers' bullpen during the playoffs. He finished the 2017 season with a 4.22 ERA and 140:34 K:BB across 25 starts and four relief appearances. Given the Dodgers' depth at starting pitcher, he figures to compete for a back-end rotation spot.
Sep 21 2017Maeda was shifted to the bullpen following his start against the Phillies on Thursday, David Vassegh of AM 570 LA Sports reports.The Dodgers won't need a fifth starter for the remainder of the season thanks to a team off day next week, so Maeda will head back to the bullpen as the team gears up for the playoffs. Maeda was never expected to make the Dodgers' postseason rotation with the likes of Clayton Kershaw, Yu Darvish, Alex Wood and Rich Hill ahead of him, so this move isn't all too surprising. The 29-year-old spent some time in the bullpen earlier in the season, allowing just one run in five innings while striking out seven batters in a pair of appearances. Look for him to serve as an important multi-inning reliever for the Dodgers down the stretch.
Sep 12 2017Maeda allowed four runs on four hits while striking out four batters through just three innings during Monday's loss to the Giants.It's impossible to read too much into this start from Maeda, as the game was delayed twice for a total of three hours and 34 minutes. Simply put, that's a nightmare for a starting pitcher's routine. Maeda also entered the outing with a sterling 3.42 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 10.1 K/9 in the second half, so Monday's underwhelming showing is likely more to do with the rain delays than anything else. The Dodgers appear likely to stick with six-man rotation moving forward, so Maeda lines up to make his next start against Washington at Nationals Park on Sunday.
Sep 12 2017Maeda will make his next start on Aug. 20 or Aug. 21 against the Phillies, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was originally scheduled to take the mound this Sunday against the Nationals, but manager Dave Roberts has decided to replace him with Hyun-Jin Ryu for that contest and shift Maeda back a few days to face off against the Phillies, who represent a much more manageable opponent.
Sep 8 2017Maeda will get another start next Tuesday against the Giants after manager Dave Roberts announced that the Dodgers will stick with a six-man rotation, Bill Plunkett of The Orange County Register reports.Roberts' decision to continue giving his starters extra rest may have been influenced by Clayton Kershaw's uncharacteristically poor outing against the Rockies on Thursday. The news gives Maeda another turn in the rotation, placing him in a favorable matchup against the light-hitting Giants. The 29-year-old has pitched well in the second half, posting a 3.42 ERA and 10.1 K/9 in nine starts since the All-Star break.
Sep 7 2017Maeda held the Diamondbacks to one run (zero earned) on four hits while walking one and striking out eight over five innings. He did not receive a decision in Wednesday's 3-1 loss.Maeda fared much better against the Diamondbacks at home after getting shelled for seven runs in his previous start in Arizona. The 29-year-old's eight punchouts matched his high watermark for the year. He has been providing excellent strikeout totals over his last seven starts (11.1 K/9), despite carrying a pedestrian 3.86 ERA over that span. The Dodgers have been deploying a six-man rotation since Clayton Kershaw and Yu Darvish returned from the disabled list, so it is unclear if Maeda will stay on schedule with another start early next week, or if the club will revert to a traditional five-man setup as they lineup their starters for the postseason, according to J.P. Hoornstra of The Orange County Register.
Aug 31 2017Maeda (12-6) allowed seven runs on eight hits and a walk while striking out four batters through just three innings during Thursday's loss to Arizona.Maeda entered with a 2.78 ERA through his previous 10 starts, so owners shouldn't overreact to Thursday's poor showing. Arizona has been a high-powered offense at Chase Field all season and sport the second-best home wOBA (.353) in the majors. Maeda will look to bounce back in his next start against the Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium.
Aug 25 2017Maeda (12-5) allowed one run on just one hit and two walks with seven strikeouts over six innings Friday against Milwaukee.This marks Maeda's first quality start since he tossed seven shutout frames August 1 against the Braves. Still, despite his inconsistency both in terms of runs allowed and going deep into games, Maeda is 3-1 over that five-start stretch. Maeda isn't just a solid pitcher, he's a solid pitcher with a great team behind him, which is often the making of the best fantasy assets.
Aug 20 2017Maeda (11-5) allowed four runs on five hits over six innings and was tagged with a loss Sunday against the Tigers.Maeda started Sunday's game strong, as he opened the contest with five perfect frames. However, things quickly went south for him in the sixth when he surrendered a two-run home run and gave up four total runs. Although this wasn't the righty's best outing, his command was still solid as he struck out seven and didn't allow any walks. Maeda will carry a 3.88 ERA and 1.11 WHIP into his next start, which figures to come Friday against the Brewers.
Aug 13 2017Maeda (11-4) allowed four runs (three earned) on four hits and one walk across 5.1 innings in Sunday's win over the Padres. He struck out eight.Maeda, who threw 65 percent of his pitches for strikes, induced 16 swinging strikes while tying his season high in punchouts. He allowed two runs in the first and another pair on a home run by Cory Spangenberg in the sixth, but a big inning from the Dodgers offense gave him the support necessary to earn the win. This one snapped a streak of five consecutive outings in which Maeda allowed one earned run or fewer, but he has won his last five decisions and owns a solid 3.76 ERA for the year. He will take the ball next Sunday against the Tigers.
Aug 9 2017Maeda held the Diamondbacks to a single run on four hits and a walk while striking out six over five innings in a no-decision Tuesday.Over his last 10 appearances (eight starts), Maeda has put up a 2.08 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 43:9 K:BB over 47.2 innings, and yet it's been all he can do just to cling to a rotation spot. Part of that is his own fault, as despite the sparkling stats, he's had a ton of trouble pitching deep into games -- he's exceeded five innings just twice in that span, and it took him 92 pitches to complete Tuesday's outing. When Clayton Kershaw (back) returns, someone's going to get the boot from the Dodgers' starting five, but even with his relative inability to pitch deep into games, the Japanese righty's stats have made a strong argument that it shouldn't be him. His next turn will come Sunday at home against San Diego.
Aug 2 2017Maeda (10-4) twirled a gem Tuesday, firing seven scoreless frames with six strikeouts in a 3-2 win over the Braves.Maeda is currently auditioning to keep his spot in the rotation following the acquisition of Yu Darvish at the trade deadline, so the timing of his dominant outing couldn't have been any better. Tuesday's start put a cap on a six-game stretch where the veteran has posted a 5-1 record to go along with a 2.20 ERA. One thing working against the 29-year-old has been an inability to go deep into games (just 4-of-19 starts lasting longer than five innings), which could eventually land the righty back in the bullpen for the second time this season. As of right now, both Clayton Kershaw (back) and Brandon McCarthy (finger) remain on the disabled list, so Maeda's spot in the rotation is safe, but manager Dave Roberts will have a tough decision to make regarding who will be his fifth starter down the stretch once all his arms are healthy.
Jul 26 2017Maeda (9-4) yielded two runs (one earned) over five innings in a win over the Twins on Tuesday. He struck out four while giving up five hits and two walks.The Japanese righty is rarely allowed to pitch deep into games; although this was his third consecutive win, each of those starts has seen him go exactly five frames. Nonetheless, he's gradually pulling his ratios down to respectability -- over his last 35.2 innings, Maeda has a 2.52 ERA, a 1.09 WHIP and a 31:7 K:BB.
Jul 20 2017Maeda (8-4) allowed one run on five hits and a walk while striking out three over five innings in Wednesday's 9-1 win over the White Sox.The right-hander threw only 83 pitches (54 strikes), but after the Dodgers extended their lead in the top of the six inning, manager Dave Roberts elected not to push Maeda too far. The 29-year-old has put his rough start to the season behind him and now has a 2.86 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 8.8 K/9 over his last eight outings. He'll next take the mound Tuesday at home against the Twins.
Jul 7 2017Maeda (7-4) allowed a single run on four hits and two walks while striking out five batters through five innings during Friday's win over Kansas City.It's been a little difficult to peg Maeda this season for a number of reasons. Not only has he been inconsistent, but he's not pitching deep into games and has even made a couple relief appearances. His 4.38 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 8.9 K/9 are serviceable fantasy marks, and with the Dodgers running away with the National League, everything is in place for Maeda to improve and show more consistency in the second half.
Jul 2 2017Maeda was tagged for five earned runs on eight hits in just 3.2 innings in a loss to the Padres on Sunday. He also walked one and struck out one.The Padres did the bulk of their damage in the second inning, putting up three runs. Meanwhile, the Dodgers bullpen surrendered just three hits (and one walk) the rest of the game, but it wasn't enough as the offense couldn't get out from under an early five-run deficit. Maeda is now 6-4 on the year with a pedestrian 4.56 ERA, 72 strikeouts and 1.19 WHIP across 12 starts. He'll likely remain in the rotation at least until Brandon McCarthy (knee) returns from the disabled list.
Jun 27 2017Maeda (6-3) scattered four hits over seven scoreless innings in Tuesday's win over the Angels. He struck out six and did not walk a batter.The right-hander faced an Angels lineup that was without Albert Pujols and Cameron Maybin in addition to Mike Trout (thumb), but that doesn't mean this performance was just a flash in the pan. Maeda has been on a roll for weeks, shaving a full run off his ERA over his last four appearances (two earned runs over 17 innings in that span) while jumping between the bullpen and rotation. He has given up three home runs over the past two months after serving up seven in April. If he keeps going like this, Maeda should continue to see regular starts even after Brandon McCarthy (knee) returns.
Jun 24 2017Maeda will start Tuesday's game against the Angels, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports.The move allows the Dodger starters to receive an extra day of rest, a much-needed relief since the team doesn't have an off day until July 3. It appears this could be Maeda's purpose on the team going forward; mainly serving as a long reliever, but getting a spot start when deemed necessary. The right-hander will need to improve upon his 4.87 ERA as a starter this season if he wants to work his way back into the regular rotation.
Jun 19 2017Maeda will return to a long relief role once he is ready to pitch after throwing five innings Sunday, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.Maeda was solid against Cincinnati, as he held them to one run on three hits over five innings. But he has been inconsistent in the starting role this season, and with the Dodgers finally somewhat healthy in their rotation, he will be relegated to a swingman role. Expect him to make more starts this season, but it will require an injury in Los Angeles's rotation to open a slot for him.
Jun 18 2017Maeda (5-3) allowed one run on three hits and one walk across five innings in Sunday's win over the Reds. He struck out five.Maeda didn't allow a baserunner until the fourth inning, when he loaded the bases before hitting a batter to plate the only run on his ledger. He was quite sharp for the most part, throwing 69 percent of his pitches for strikes, including 12 in swinging fashion. Maeda's previous appearance came out of the bullpen after he had been inconsistent as a starter, but he has looked much better over the last two outings, allowing just two runs with 11 strikeouts compared to one walk across nine innings. The 29-year-old is not currently scheduled to make another start in the immediate future, but his role could be fluid moving forward.
Jun 15 2017Maeda is expected to start Sunday's game against the Reds, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.Maeda's next appearance was supposed to come out of the bullpen this week, but manager Dave Roberts will choose to deploy him in the rotation later in the week in order to afford his starting pitchers an extra day of rest. The 29-year-old owns a 4.95 ERA and 59:17 K:BB through 56.1 innings this year (10 starts, one relief appearance).
Jun 11 2017Manager Dave Roberts announced Sunday that Maeda's next relief outing will likely be Wednesday or Thursday against the Indians, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.The Dodgers are being strategic with Maeda's usage out of the bullpen and tentatively plan to have him piggyback on the start of either Brandon McCarthy on Wednesday or Rich Hill on Thursday against the defending AL champs. The veteran hurler will likely remain in the bullpen until an injury opens a spot in the rotation.
Jun 10 2017Maeda tossed four innings of one-run ball while striking out six in relief Friday, picking up his first career save in the process.It was a successful debut in the bullpen for the 29-year-old, who was recently booted from the rotation to make way for Alex Wood (shoulder). While he earned the rare four-inning save Friday, Maeda won't be seeing save opportunities regularly as a long reliever. His fantasy value is diminished in this role, but he could return to relevance should a spot in the rotation open up again.
Jun 7 2017Maeda will not make his scheduled start Saturday and will move to the bullpen, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Contrary to prior reports, the Dodgers will cast Maeda off of the rotation to allow Alex Wood (shoulder) and Hyun-Jin Ryu to be in the rotation moving forward. Wood and Ryu will start Saturday' and Sunday's contest, respectively, although Maeda is expected to piggyback either Rich Hill or Wood on Friday or Saturday. This doesn't seem to be a permanent move, but manager Dave Roberts seems to be intent on keeping the top performers in the rotation at a given time, meaning Maeda seems to be locked in as a bullpen piece until another rotation member falters or gets injured.
Jun 4 2017Maeda will make his next scheduled start Saturday against the Reds, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.Maeda was moderately effective in Sunday's start against the Brewers, but it was yet another short outing for the right-hander. He allowed two runs over 4.0 innings, marking his third straight start of 5.0 or less innings. Maeda did manage to fan seven hitters in that span, but McCullough notes that frustration with his overall performance of late is growing.
May 30 2017Maeda allowed three runs on four hits and three walks across four innings in a no-decision Tuesday against the Cardinals. He struck out two.Maeda labored through a first inning in which he was touched up for three runs, and although he settled down thereafter he was removed with an elevated pitch count after four. He has allowed no more than three runs in any of his last five starts, but that stretch has lost some of its luster after six earned runs over nine innings in back-to-back outings against St. Louis. He has struggled to a 5.21 ERA and 1.28 WHIP through 48.1 innings and will face the Brewers on Sunday in his next start.
May 26 2017Maeda (4-2) gave up three runs on seven hits over five innings Thursday. He walked two and struck out four in a win over the Cardinals.The 29-year-old was almost lifted for a pinch-hitter when his spot in the order came up in the bottom of the fourth with two outs and two men on base. Manager Dave Roberts decided to let his starter bat and Maeda delivered with a two-RBI single, rewarding fantasy owners with a victory in the process. The veteran admitted that he was a bit rusty in the first inning when he surrendered all three of the runs charged to his name, but he regained his aggressiveness in the strike zone and held the Cardinals scoreless the rest of the way. If we include the three starts before his recent trip to the disabled list, Maeda has looked more like the pitcher that broke out in 2016, posting a .284 ERA and 8.9 K/9 over over those four outings.
May 25 2017Maeda (hamstring) has been officially activated from the disabled list ahead of Thursday's start against the Cardinals, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.The Dodgers placed center fielder Joc Pederson on the 7-day concussion DL to clear a roster spot for Maeda, who had been shelved with a hamstring injury. Maeda had his best start of the season prior to going on the DL, holding the Pirates to two earned runs over 8.1 innings. He'll face a St. Louis lineup that ranks 16th in MLB in wOBA in May.
May 19 2017Maeda will start Thursday against St. Louis if his rehab assignment Friday for High-A Rancho Cucamonga goes as planned, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.Maeda will throw 60 pitches in Friday's rehab start, so don't expect him to go deep into his first start back even if he is effective. His 5.03 ERA in his first seven starts is underwhelming, but Maeda posted an encouraging 40:9 K:BB over 39.1 innings, a good sign that he can perform closer to the 3.48 ERA he posted in 2016 going forward.
May 18 2017Maeda (hamstring) is set to pitch four innings at High-A Rancho Cucamonga, SB Nation's Eric Stephen reports.The right-hander's pitch count will be limited to 60 on Friday, and if his outing goes off without incident, he'll be lined up to start Wednesday or Thursday against the Cardinals. Maeda's rehab has gone well to this point, and there was speculation earlier in his DL stint that he'd be activated after the minimum 10 days. While that won't be the case, Maeda is still nearing a return within the next week.
May 17 2017Maeda (hamstring) is expected to be activated from the disabled list sometime during the Dodgers' series with the Cardinals next week, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.There was some speculation that Made could return after the minimum 10 days on the DL in order to start Sunday's contest, but the Dodgers will instead turn to Brandon McCarthy for that outing. No exact date for his return has been provided, nor have the Dodgers revealed who will be bumped from the rotation to make room for the Japanese hurler, but more information on that should emerge sometime in the next week.
May 15 2017Maeda (hamstring) is set to pitch a simulated game Monday, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda was placed on the disabled list last week with a tight hamstring after tossing 8.1 innings of two-run ball against the Pirates. While the Dodgers haven't indicated when Maeda may be able to come off the DL, a possible timetable for his return could become available if all goes well Monday. With Rich Hill (finger) and Brandon McCarthy (shoulder) set to come off the disabled list this week, the Dodgers shouldn't need to recall anyone from Triple-A Oklahoma City to take Maeda's place in the rotation. The Dodgers' rotation depth may also prompt them to hold Maeda back a little longer than expected to ensure he is fully healed.
May 11 2017Maeda was placed on the disabled list Thursday with hamstring tightness.Maeda threw a fantastic game Wednesday, as he allowed just two runs over 8.1 innings and earned his third win of the season, so seeing him land on the disabled list comes as a bit of a surprise. At this point in time there's yet to be any news regarding the severity of Maeda's injury, but more details should become available soon. Hyun-Jin Ryu (hip) came off the DL on Thursday, while Brandon McCarthy (shoulder) and Rich Hill (finger) are expected to be activated early next week, so it's unlikely that the Dodgers will need to recall anyone from Triple-A Oklahoma City to temporarily replace Maeda.
May 10 2017Maeda (3-2) allowed two earned runs on five hits with five strikeouts over 8.1 innings in Wednesday's win over the Pirates.Maeda was dominant Wednesday, baffling Pirates hitters from the outset in the longest outing of his MLB career. This was an important start; with multiple L.A. starters slated to return from the disabled list soon, Maeda is working to ensure he'll stick in the rotation. Adding the cutter to his arsenal has helped him find success this season in the strikeout department, where he carries a 9.15 K/9. The 29-year-old will look to keep his momentum rolling Monday at San Francisco.
May 6 2017Maeda allowed two runs -- one earned -- on three hits and three walks while striking out eight batters over five innings in a no-decision during Friday's win over San Diego.After a rocky start to the season (8.05 ERA over four outings), Maeda has now pitched well in consecutive starts with just three earned runs allowed and 16 strikeouts over 12 innings. He's only reached the sixth inning in one outing all season, though, so he still hasn't overcome his inability to pitch deep into games. Maeda will look to keep his solid run going at home against the Pirates next week.
Apr 29 2017Maeda (2-2) turned in a strong out Friday, tossing seven innings of two-run ball while striking out eight in a win over the Phillies.The 29-year-old had struggled through his first four starts of the season, but he bounced back in a big way Friday. Maeda used his cutter -- a pitch he never used in 2016 -- to attack Philadelphia's left-handed batters and it resulted in his finest outing this season. This was also the first start where the righty didn't surrender a home run. After getting hit hard in tough matchups in his previous three outings, Maeda may have restored faith in fantasy owners and saved his spot in the rotation with this dominant showing. He has a favorable matchup against the Padres next Friday, a perfect situation to build off of Friday's success.
Apr 24 2017Maeda's next start has been pushed back to Friday, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.The Dodgers expressed a desire to push Maeda's start back so he could work on pitching mechanics, and manager Dave Roberts confirmed the move Monday. Maeda has struggled mightily in 2017, having allowed 17 runs over 19 innings despite a solid 19:5 K:BB. Julio Urias is expected to slide into Maeda's previously scheduled Thursday slot.
Apr 22 2017Maeda's next start may be delayed so he can work on his pitching mechanics, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.Manager Dave Roberts believes that Maeda is being too aggressive when throwing his fastball, which is resulting in a lack of control. Maeda's next scheduled start is Thursday against the Giants. While the Dodgers have yet to decide whether or not they'll move his next start, they're entertaining the possibility due to his struggles. Maeda gave up six runs over five innings in Saturday's loss to the Diamondbacks, which brought his ERA and WHIP up to 8.05 and 1.53, respectively.
Apr 17 2017Maeda will start Saturday against the Diamondbacks instead of Friday, Eric Stephen of SB Nation reports.With Rich Hill back on the disabled list due to blisters, the Dodgers needed to rearrange their rotation in order to fit Alex Wood. As such, Maeda will be pushed back a day. The fact that Maeda has struggled this season (7.07 ERA in 14 innings) only made that decision easier for the Dodgers.
Apr 16 2017Maeda only last four innings Saturday, giving up four runs on four hits over four innings. He walked one and struck out five in an eventual win over the Diamondbacks.The 29-year-old threw just 71 pitches before getting the hook Saturday. After surrendering an early lead, manager Dave Roberts may have simply seen enough from his starter before dipping into a rested bullpen. Maeda hasn't been the same breakout pitcher we saw last year, posting a 7.07 ERA through three starts. The concerning part is his inability to get past the fifth inning in any of his starts so far. Two of his first three starts have come against dangerous offenses (Colorado and Arizona), so it isn't time to panic quite yet. That being said, Maeda's next start comes against these same Diamondbacks, this time in the hitter-friendly confines of Chase Field, so we may have to wait another week before he rights the ship.
Apr 9 2017Maeda (1-1) allowed four runs on five hits and one walk while striking out five in five innings to defeat the Rockies on Sunday.It was another shaky performance for Maeda, who lost to the lowly Padres in his first start of the year. However, most fantasy owners were probably wary of this one at Coors Field. The good news is that he's struck out nine in his first 10 innings, and if his control remains solid, he'll reward fantasy owners sooner than later.
Apr 4 2017Maeda (0-1) gave up three runs on six hits and a pair of walks over five innings in a 4-0 loss to San Diego on Tuesday. He struck out four.This surely wasn't how Maeda wanted to open his season, as the Padres got to him right away with a pair of first-inning runs. He ended up being lifted early in an attempt to generate some offense, but the Dodgers got nothing done at the plate against Clayton Richard and reliever Brad Hand, who combined on the shutout. Nonetheless, fantasy owners should expect big things from Maeda in his second MLB season; starts like this will be the exception, not the rule.
Mar 31 2017Maeda threw three perfect innings Thursday, striking out four in an exhibition win over the Angels.The 28-year-old made his last start in the minors so that the club could manage his pitch count and keep him fresh for the start of the season. Maeda helped that cause Friday, needing just 29 pitches to no-hit the Angels through three frames. The righty is lined up to start the club's third game of the season against the Padres, a favorable matchup that should get his season off on the right foot.
Mar 24 2017Maeda will pitch in a minor league game Friday, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.The Dodgers continue to monitor and often minimize Maeda's spring work to keep him fresh for his second full MLB season. The Japanese import wore down at the end of last year yet still ended with a sparkling line that included 3.48 ERA, 9.2 K/9 and 2.6 BB/9. Even with his risks, the 28-year-old remains worthy of sitting near the top of many fantasy rotations.
Mar 14 2017Maeda turned in his best outing of the spring Monday, limiting the Angels to one run one one hit while striking out seven in his 3.2 innings of work.After two pedestrian outings to begin the spring, Maeda looked to be in mid-season form Monday. The only blemish on his dominant stat line was a solo homer off the bat of Albert Pujols. The 28-year-old sophomore reportedly added 10 pounds of muscle and a cut fastball this past offseason in an effort to combat the second half slump he went through last season. Even if he were to repeat last year's results, Maeda would still be considered a valuable fantasy asset.
Feb 22 2017Maeda has added 10 pounds of muscle to his frame in an effort to reach his goal of 200 innings pitched this season.Maeda had a strong major league debut last season but faded down the stretch, posting a 4.25 ERA in the second half compared to a 2.95 ERA in the first. The added muscle could help prolong his effectiveness and give a better representation of the pitcher he could be over the course of a whole season. Maeda is also working on adding a cutter to his repertoire in an effort to deal with left-handed batters better, who he allowed over 30 more batting average points against last season compared to righties. Even with last year's second-half slump he still turned in usable fantasy numbers, so these changes made during spring training could result in improved numbers in his sophomore season.
Oct 19 2016Maeda will start Game 5 regardless of the result of Wednesday's Game 4, FOX Sports' Jon Morosi reports.Maeda has pitched quite poorly during the postseason, but the calculus is likely more about getting Kershaw the ball in a potential Game 6 clincher on an extra day's rest, rather than using him on short rest Thursday.
Oct 13 2016Maeda is lined up to start Game 1 of the NLCS if the Dodgers win their series against the Nationals, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles TimesDespite struggling in Game 3 of Los Angeles' NLDS matchup with the Nationals, allowing four earned runs over 3.0 innings, Maeda will still have the opportunity to start against the Cubs should the Dodgers advance to the next round. However, given the win-or-go-home stakes of Thursday's game, manager Dave Roberts could use Maeda if necessary against the Nationals. If Maeda does pitch Thursday, Los Angeles would have to adjust its rotation accordingly if it does indeed make it to the NLCS.
Oct 3 2016Maeda (16-11) gave up five runs on nine hits and two walks while striking out three over 2,2 innings in Sunday's loss to the Giants.He was on a pitch count anyway heading into the postseason, but Maeda burned through them quickly by giving up two runs in the first inning and then three more in the second. He hasn't lasted more than five innings in any of his last four starts, but the 28-year-old still finishes his first MLB campaign with a 3.48 ERA and 179:50 K:BB in 175.2 innings over 32 starts.
Sep 28 2016Maeda (16-10) allowed three runs on three hits and a walk with five strikeouts over four innings Tuesday against the Padres.Maeda threw 60 pitches, and the Dodgers are trying to take it easy on their starting staff with the National League West crown already sewn up. This start was moved up for Maeda so he could pitch Sunday if need be, but it isn't looking like they'll need him for the season finale, so it wouldn't be surprising if his regular season is over. If so, he'll finish with a nifty 3.28 ERA and a 176:48 K:BB in 173 innings in his rookie season.
Sep 27 2016Maeda will move up a day in the Dodgers' rotation and start Tuesday night against the Padres.Maeda was set to start Wednesday while Jose De Leon got the ball Tuesday night, but manager Dave Roberts decided to swap the assignments. Maeda will still take on the same Padres team he was originally scheduled to face, just a day earlier. Moving Maeda up a day also would allow him to pitch on regular rest if the Dodgers need him Sunday for the final game of the regular season.
Sep 26 2016Maeda's next start will come on Wednesday against the Padres, reports J.P. Hoornstra of the Orange County Register.Maeda will be looking to notch his 17th win of the season in what will be his final regular season start. He's allowed three or fewer runs in each of his last 11 starts and probably won't go more than five innings in this outing as the team prepares for the playoffs.
Sep 17 2016Maeda improved to 15-9 after allowing one run on three hits and three walks with six strikeouts in five innings during Friday's 3-2 win the Diamondbacks.Pitching on four days' rest for only the second time in the second half, Maeda needed 94 pitches to get through five innings. He was effective, however, keeping a dangerous Diamondbacks lineup at bay and outdueling Zack Greinke in the process. The 28-year-old rookie has settled into a groove during the second half, going 7-2 over his last 10 starts without allowing more than three earned runs in a single outing. Maeda will look to keep rolling in Wednesday's home start against the scuffling Giants.
Sep 12 2016Maeda (14-9) gave up three runs (two earned) on eight hits and a walk over six innings in Sunday's loss to the Marlins. He struck out three.It was his 14th quality start of the season but only his third in seven starts during August and September, as he's had trouble lasting the necessary six innings. Maeda's gone 5-2 and his 3.46 ERA during that time is still solid though, so his lack of length hasn't impacted his fantasy value. He'll next take the mound Friday in Arizona.
Sep 5 2016Maeda (14-8) allowed one run on three hits and a walk with eight strikeouts over 6.1 innings to earn the win Monday over Arizona.This was Maeda's first quality start since August 16 and just his third in his past six starts, but he hasn't allowed more than three runs in any of those starts. He had the Diamondbacks flailing Monday night, as he used 18 swinging strikes to reach eight strikeouts for the sixth time this season. He now owns an excellent 156:49 K:BB over 153 innings to back up his sharp 3.29 ERA.
Aug 29 2016Maeda (13-8) allowed two runs on four hits, striking out six while walking just one over five innings in Monday's tough-luck loss at Coors Field.Maeda handled baseball's most hitter-friendly venue quite well, but an implosion by the Dodgers bullpen sank any chance he had of escaping without a loss. Pitching on a full week's rest seemed to do him some good, but the Japanese right-hander still threw just 88 pitches. He'll have a favorable matchup with the Padres on Saturday if the Dodgers opt to use him on regular rest.
Aug 29 2016Maeda was officially recalled to start Monday's game against the Rockies.The Dodgers took advantage of a transactional loophole when they optioned Maeda to their Rookie-level team on Friday. While a player typically must wait 10 days to be recalled, Maeda is able to rejoin the Dodgers after just three days since the Rookie-level team's season concluded Sunday. As such, Maeda will be added to the 25-man roster, taking the place of Sunday's starter, Brock Stewart, who was optioned to Double-A Tulsa on Monday.
Aug 26 2016Maeda's next start has been pushed back to Monday against the Rockies, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.He now lines up for a matchup at Coors Field but Maeda has been excellent in two starts at Coors so far this season, allowing two earned runs with a 13:1 K:BB in 12 innings. While a reason for him being pushed back was not immediately provided, the Dodgers may just be looking to get Maeda some extra rest after he labored through five innings in his last start (103 pitches).
Aug 24 2016Maeda (13-7) allowed three runs on six hits and four walks and struck out four through five innings in a win Tuesday over San Francisco.Maeda's lapse in control was extremely uncharacteristic, as he has walked three or more batters just five times and walked four batters Tuesday for the first time since May 6 against Toronto. Still, Maeda owns a slick 142:39 K:BB in 141.2 innings this season to support his sharp 3.37 ERA in a debut season that has gone about as well as anybody could have expected.
Aug 17 2016Maeda threw six innings of two-run ball, striking out nine while allowing just three hits and a walk en route to a win over the Phillies on Tuesday.Maeda was nearly perfect save for a pair of solo shots in the second and third innings, keeping the Phillies off the basepaths while the Dodgers' offense racked up 15 runs to secure a blowout victory. Maeda's nine strikeouts were his second-best of any start this season, and brought his total to 138 over 136.2 innings pitched. While Maeda's ERA remains a solid 3.29 on the season, that's up from 2.87 at the end of June. One reason why is the long ball, as Maeda has allowed a home run in seven of his last eight starts. He'll look to keep the ball in the yard when he travels to homer-friendly Cincinnati on Sunday.
Aug 9 2016Maeda (11-7) allowed three runs on six hits with two walks and four strikeouts over five innings to beat the Phillies on Tuesday.Maeda broke a streak of three straight starts with exactly two runs allowed and no walks, but still cruised to victory as the Dodgers offense devoured a Phillies starter for the second straight contest. The right-hander continues to struggle to pitch deep into games, having reached the seven-inning mark just twice in 23 starts. He'll once again be at home for his next outing, though the middling Pirates lineup he's slated to face Sunday represents a significant step up from this 29th-ranked Philadelphia offense.
Aug 4 2016Maeda (10-7) held the Rockies to two runs on four hits without a walk over 5.2 innings in Thursday's 4-2 victory. He struck out five.Fantasy owners in leagues that count quality starts have to be feeling a bit pained after Maeda missed one by just a third of an inning, but this is still a very positive outing in baseball's hardest place to pitch. Maeda knows how to generate grounders when he needs them, and he mostly kept the Rockies from putting the ball in the air, with the notable exception of David Dahl's two-run homer in the fourth inning. Fantasy owners could ask for a bit more longevity from Maeda, but otherwise it's hard to complain about the package he's offered this year, as he owns a 3.22 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with just a hair under a strikeout per inning over 125.2 frames.
Aug 2 2016Maeda will start Thursday's game against the Rockies, Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register reports.With the team opting to put Brock Stewart on the mound Wednesday, Maeda's start against the Rockies has been pushed to Thursday. Maeda has done very well against Colorado this season, allowing just one run over 13 innings (2 starts). However, Thursday's contest will be in the hitter-friendly Coors Field.
Jul 23 2016Maeda (9-7) allowed two runs on five hits while striking out three over 5.2 innings to earn the win Saturday at the Cardinals.Maeda was the beneficiary of seven runs produced by the Dodgers' offense, helping him earn his ninth victory of 2016. He's now failed to record a quality start in three of his last four outings, and he owns a 3.25 ERA to go along with a 1.11 WHIP in 2016. He'll make his next start Friday against the Diamondbacks.
Jul 17 2016Maeda was rocked for five runs on seven hits and a walk across just 4.1 innings in Sunday's loss to the Diamondbacks. He struck out five.Arizona got to Maeda early, scoring three runs in the first, and they tacked on one run in both the fourth and fifth innings to chase him from the game after just 84 pitches. Maeda has pitched well on the whole this season, as his ERA still sits at 3.25 even after Sunday's shellacking, and he will attempt to bounce back Saturday versus the Cardinals, albeit in a tough road matchup.
Jul 10 2016Maeda (8-6) struck out 13 while giving up only an earned run on two hits over seven innings in Sunday's 3-1 victory over the Padres.The 28-year-old was on another level Sunday, notching the best strikeout total of his first season stateside, and giving up only a single earned run for the fourth time in the last seven starts. Maeda missed plently of bats, tallying a whopping 24 swinging strikes overall, and retiring 14 of the first 15 batters he faced. He struck out Melvin Upton three times on the afternoon, and got Will Myers, Matt Kemp and Ryan Schimpf to whiff twice as well. If he can keep up the caliber of performances he's been putting forth in the season's second half, the Dodgers will be a force to contend with in October.
Jul 5 2016Maeda (7-6) allowed four runs on seven hits and three walks with five strikeouts over four innings in a loss Tuesday to Baltimore.This marks just the second time all season Maeda has failed to make it through the fifth inning. Maeda still has yet to suffer a start in which he allows more than four runs, and that ability to avoid a blowup even when he is at his worst has helped Maeda maintain his sharp 3.07 ERA. As such, expect Maeda to bounce back well in his last start before the break Sunday against San Diego.
Jun 30 2016Maeda (7-5) scattered three hits and surrendered a lone run in six innings while walking two and striking out six in Thursday's 8-1 win over the Brewers.The Japanese-rookie turned in a typically-methodical performance to notch his seventh win. Maeda seems to be settling into the states nicely, walking away from June with a 2.73 ERA and 1.21 WHIP in six starts this month. In four of those six outings, the right-hander allowed just one earned run and lowered his ERA to 2.82 in the process. He's scheduled to get the ball twice more before the break, with his next start coming Tuesday at home against the Orioles.
Jun 23 2016Maeda will take the mound Saturday against the Pirates.Maeda was reportedly moving back a day to pitch Sunday but the Dodgers will in fact stick to their normal rotation and have him take the mound Saturday. Clayton Kershaw will start Sunday's outing and the club will give each pitcher an extra day of rest.
Jun 23 2016Maeda will get an extra day of rest and pitch Sunday against the Pirates.Maeda pitched this past Sunday against the Brewers, allowing only one run on six hits during a 2-1 victory. With the club getting a day off Thursday, the Dodgers will slide Kershaw up to Saturday (typically Maeda's day on the mound) and give the ball to Maeda on Sunday in Pittsburgh.
Jun 17 2016Maeda (leg) will make his next scheduled start on Sunday, Zach Helfand of the LA Times reports.There had been some uncertainty as to whether Maeda would miss time due to a leg contusion he suffered against Arizona on Tuesday but it is now confirmed that he will make his next scheduled start. The 28-year-old is continuing to look like the ace many thought he would be when he transferred to the MLB from the Japanese Baseball League as he's posted a 1.54 ERA and 1.07 WHIP over his last four starts.
Jun 16 2016Maeda (leg contusion) played catch in the outfield Thursday and hopes to make his next scheduled start, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda suffered a minor leg contusion during his start on Tuesday but has been optimistic since then that he won't miss any time. He did some light work Thursday, playing catch in the outfield, and says that he feels good enough to not require a bullpen session. It's been nearly all good news since his scruff up Tuesday and pending any surprising setbacks, the 28-year-old will be out there Sunday on his normal schedule.
Jun 15 2016Manager Dave Roberts announced that he is optimistic that Maeda (leg) will be able to make his next scheduled start, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Maeda has reportedly improved dramatically overnight and is walking without a limp in the Dodgers' clubhouse Wednesday, less than one day removed from taking a line drive off his right leg during his start against Arizona. His next scheduled start will be Sunday against Milwaukee, so he figures to continue receiving treatment over the next few days before the Dodgers make an official decision on his status over the weekend.
Jun 14 2016Maeda left Tuesday's game against Arizona in the sixth inning after taking a line drive off his right leg, just below the knee, the Los Angeles Times' Andy McCullough reports.He needed a lot of help getting off the field after being struck by a 95 mph liner off the bat of Paul Goldschmidt. It may be a small consolation if this turns out to be a significant injury, but Maeda was in line for the win when he left Tuesday. He allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits and a walk while striking out six in 5.1 innings. His status will be updated when the team releases the exact nature of the injury.
Jun 14 2016Maeda suffered a right lower leg contusion during Tuesday's game, as X-rays were negative, SB Nation's Eric Stephen reports.This doesn't necessarily mean he has dodged a significant injury, as teammate Andre Ethier's X-rays were initially negative on his right shin earlier this spring, before it was then deemed to be a fracture. Maeda needed to be helped off the field Tuesday after a 95 mph liner off the bat of Paul Goldschmidt hit him just below the right knee. The Dodgers will likely update his status several times in advance of Sunday's scheduled start against the Brewers.
Jun 8 2016Maeda (5-4) struck out a season-high nine and held the Rockies to a single run on five hits and a walk over 6.2 innings Wednesday, but was stuck with a tough-luck loss.May wasn't Maeda's month -- he failed to last longer than five innings in four consecutive starts to close out the month, giving up four runs in three of those -- but he's pitched into the seventh in each of his first two games of June. All in all, despite a fastball that averages less than 90 miles per hour, the 28-year-old Japanese rookie has been every bit as good as advertised -- and considering he's just learning his way around Major League Baseball, it's quite possible that we still haven't seen the best of Maeda yet.
Jun 3 2016Maeda (5-3) only allowed two runs (one earned) with six hits and two walks over 6.1 innings of work in the win against Atlanta on Friday. He struck out five.Maeda dazzled during April to the tune of a 1.41 ERA, but he struggled in May and he pitched to a 5.04 ERA over that month. His real level probably lies somewhere in between, and he was pretty sharp in his most recent outing. It was the second straight start in which he allows two runs or less, and it seems he's trending on the right direction once again.
Jun 1 2016Maeda (hand) will not start Thursday as scheduled, but will start Friday against the Braves instead, the Los Angeles Times' Andy McCullough reports.This is actually excellent news, as he would have faced the Cubs in Wrigley Field on Thursday, and instead gets to face perhaps the worst offense in baseball Friday. X-rays were negative on his hand, and he is obviously in good enough shape not to get skipped, so owners should deploy him with confidence Friday. Julio Urias will take the ball Thursday.
May 31 2016Maeda (hand) is considered questionable to make his scheduled start Thursday against the Cubs, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.X-rays were negative after Maeda was struck by a comebacker Saturday, and the right-hander said afterward that he planned on taking his next turn. However, he's still dealing with some residual swelling three days later, so the team isn't willing to set anything in stone just yet. Julio Urias is Thursday's probable starter for Triple-A Oklahoma City, but he couldn't be brought back yet without the team placing a player on the DL.
May 29 2016Maeda says his hand feels better than expected and plans to make his scheduled start Thursday against the Cubs, MLB.com's Ken Gurnick reports.Maeda was struck in the hand with a comebacker in Saturday's game, and the team sent the right-hander for precautionary X-rays. Those results came back negative, and the next step for Maeda will be his regular side session. A successful workout there would all but cement Maeda's status as Thursday's starter.
May 29 2016Maeda underwent X-rays on his right hand after Saturday's win over the Mets, which came back negative, Ken Gurnick of MLB.com reports.Manager Dave Roberts said that Maeda, who was hit on the hand by a comebacker in the first inning Saturday, was dealing with a little bit of swelling, but remains in line to make his next start Thursday against the Cubs. The right-hander was able to remain in the game after the incident and went on to toss five scoreless innings to earn the win, but Roberts removed him after just 75 pitches, most likely for precautionary purposes.
May 28 2016Maeda (4-3) threw five shutout innings, allowing just two hits in a victory against the Mets on Saturday. He also had three strikeouts and two walks.The game was scoreless after five, and Maeda didn't pitch another inning, but two runs in the top of the sixth gave the Dodgers the lead, and Maeda the victory. He threw just 75 pitches, but Los Angeles has kept his pitch count well below 100 over the last three outings. It proved successful, as this was the first time since May 6 that he didn't allow four runs. He now has a 3.00 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 51 strikeouts in 57 innings. Maeda's next start will be Thursday against the Cubs.
May 22 2016Maeda struggled Sunday versus the Padres, allowing four runs with five strikeouts and one walk in just five innings. He did not factor into the decision.Maeda cruised into the fifth inning, but he allowed five men to reach and surrendered all four runs while elevating his pitch count to the point that the club chose to yank him for a pinch-hitter. He has failed to make it out of the fifth inning in each of his last three starts, with a 7.71 ERA in 14 innings, and he will look to turn things around Saturday at the Mets.
May 17 2016Maeda (3-3) allowed four runs on five hits and two walks over four innings with five strikeouts Monday in a loss to the Angels.Since opening the season with five quality starts in his first six appearances, Maeda has allowed four runs in consecutive starts. Maeda was nasty at times, as he drew 13 swinging strikes in just 73 pitches, but he allowed three consecutive two-out singles to fuel a four-run third inning, and the Dodgers gave him a quick hook when they pinch hit for him in the fourth inning. Even with the bump in the road, Maeda's beginning to his MLB career has been stellar, as he still owns a 2.87 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 47 innings.
May 11 2016Maeda gave up four runs on six hits and two walks while striking out three over five innings in a loss to the Mets on Wednesday.It goes down as the worst outing so far in Maeda's young MLB career, but he was able to quiet most of the Mets' regulars. Opposing starter Noah Syndergaard did all of the damage against Maeda, homering twice and driving in all four runs for New York. Despite his ERA jumping more than 60 points with the forgettable performance, Maeda still ranks in the top 10 among NL starters in ERA (2.30). After starts against the Blue Jays and Mets to begin May, Maeda will get a bit of a break next week with matchups against the Angels and Padres on tap.
May 6 2016Maeda allowed two runs on just two hits, walking four and striking out seven over six innings, but came away with a no-decision against Toronto on Friday night.The Blue Jays made it a task for Maeda (3-1) who needed 102 pitches (just 59 for strikes) to cover the six innings. While his breaking pitches were sharp, he struggled with command of his fastball leading to a shorter outing, yet his only real mistake was a two-run home run off the bat of Jose Batista in the sixth inning. He'll take his sterling 1.66 ERA into his next start against the Mets in Los Angeles.
Apr 30 2016Maeda will make his next start Friday against the Blue Jays, Andy McCullough of the Los Angeles Times reports.According to McCullough, the Dodgers wanted to use Maeda for Friday's contest in order to avoid using lefty Alex Wood against Toronto's right-handed power hitters. Maeda has been nothing short of impressive in his first major league season, notching a 1.41 ERA across his first five starts.
Apr 28 2016Maeda (3-1) put up his worst start in the majors so far Thursday, allowing four runs on seven hits and a walk over 6.2 innings in a loss to the Marlins. He struck out five.The Japanese rookie had another gem going until the seventh inning, when he gave up three hits and a run, got yanked from the game, and had to watch reliever Pedro Baez let two inherited runners score. Despite the bad turn for his ERA (all the way up to 1.41, tragically), this start has to be viewed as a continuation of his success early on in the majors. Maeda looks like he's in for quite the campaign.
Dec 24 2014Maeda officially re-signed with the Hiroshima Carp of Japan's Central League on a two-year contract Wednesday, Jim Allen of the Kyodo News reports.Though Maeda won't be an unrestricted free agent until 2017, he could still depart for the MLB next offseason. The 26-year-old right-hander received interest from a number of suitors this winter after tallying a sub-3.00 ERA for the fifth consecutive season in the Central League. He boasts a three-pitch mix that includes a low-to-mid-90s fastball, a slider and a changeup, and while he's not the premium arm that fellow countrymen Yu Darvish and Masahiro Tanaka were, there's still a belief he could be a serviceable mid-rotation or back-end starter in the majors.
Dec 18 2014The Hiroshima Carp have informed Maeda they will not allow him to leave for MLB via the posting system this winter, the Japan Times reports.Maeda is one of the top pitchers in Japan and has expressed his interest in moving to MLB. Maeda was 11-9 with a 2.60 ERA with a 161:41 K:BB ratio in 187 innings last season. He could try to force the team to post him next year as he'll be eligible for international free agency in 2017.
Oct 13 2014The Hiroshima Carp are unlikely to accept bids for Maeda under the posting system due to his disappointing 2014 season, the Kyodo news service reports. Maeda was 11-9 with a 2.60 ERA with a 161:41 K:BB ratio in 187 innings.This may just be posturing as other than his win-loss record, Maeda's performance was close to his recent seasons as his strikeout rate of 7.7 K/9 was just below his 2013 season rate of 8.1. However, the report says Maeda has no plays to move to the U.S. this offseaon. He could elect to wait until international free agency in 2017. Maeda was regarded as the second best pitcher in Japan last winter after Masahiro Tanaka, so his offseason plans could change if the club gets more interest from MLB teams.
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Dec 10 2013Maeda has announced he'd like to move to MLB and could be posted by his team in Japan, the Hiroshima Carp, this winter, Baseball AmericaMaeda is regarded as the second best pitcher in Japan after Masahiro Tanaka. He went 15-7 with a 2.10 ERA and 158:40 K:BB ratio in 175.2 innings last season. It's not clear if Hiroshima will post him this winter, but Maeda could put pressure on the team if he wants to play overseas. If not, he's someone who could arrive in 2015, so MLB fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation.