Max Scherzer cleared to start potential Game 7 of World Series  —  HOUSTON — Washington Nationals manager Dave Martinez said ailing ace Max Scherzer will — for now — start Game 7 of the World Series on Wednesday, if Washington is able to stave off elimination against the Houston Astros on Tuesday.

Rays will cover Chaim Bloom's duties from within  —  Chaim Bloom had numerous responsibilities as a senior vice president with the Rays, and now that he has left for the Red Sox his duties will be assumed by several other executives.Rather than replace Bloom directly, the Rays will have a trio of executives …

Former NL manager in play for Phillies pitching coach position  —  The Phillies wanted an experienced manager and the same appears to be true of their open pitching coach position.  —  Former Reds manager and longtime big-league pitching coach Bryan Price has emerged as a strong candidate, according to multiple sources.

David Ross introduced as new manager of Cubs  —  CHICAGO — New Cubs manager David Ross and team president Theo Epstein pushed back on the notion that Ross simply will be an extension of the front office after working as a special assistant in it over the past three years.  —  Ross is set out to be his own man.

Sources: Pirates planning to fire GM Neal Huntington to complete house-cleaning  —  Many this offseason clamored for the Pirates to clean house, to go in a completely different direction.  —  They did, albeit in delayed, disjointed fashion.  —  The Pirates have fired general manager Neal Huntington …

Interference  —  Trea Turner beats out a slow roller, but is called out as the throw hits him, and he is not in the running lane.  His foot was on the bag when the ball hit him, but I'm not sure that matters.  Instead of runners on second and third, the runner is back at first with one out.

Leaked: NEW Milwaukee Brewers Ball-in-Glove Logo for 2020  —  It's been rumoured for years, but now it appears to be finally happening.  The Milwaukee Brewers are returning to their classic “Ball-in-Glove” logo full-time for the 2020 season.  —  Thanks to a preview of a new Topps Baseball Card set …

Blue Jays Claim Anthony Bass, Designate Ryan Dull  —  The Blue Jays announced Tuesday that they've claimed right-hander Anthony Bass off waivers from the Mariners.  In a corresponding roster move, Toronto designated fellow right-hander Ryan Dull for assignment.

Giants' Joey Bart showcased star potential in Arizona Fall League  —  Joey Bart entered the Arizona Fall League with one of the hottest bats in baseball, at any level.  His stick stayed scorching hot in the desert, too, until an injury kept him out of the lineup.

Mets managerial search progresses into third round of interviews  —  When it comes to choosing their next manager, perhaps for the Mets, accuracy is everything.  One thing is certain: Speed is hardly a concern.  Brodie Van Wagenen and Mets officials are expected to begin a third round …

Jets looking to trade Le'Veon Bell before Tuesday deadline: sources  —  Could Le'Veon Bell's time with the Jets already be coming to an end?  —  The Daily News has learned that Gang Green is amenable to dealing the perennial Pro Bowl running back for the right price before the 4 p.m. trade deadline.

Astros Owner Jim Crane Apologizes to Sports Illustrated's Stephanie Apstein, Retracts Team's Initial Statement  —  Houston Astros owner Jim Crane sent a letter Saturday to Sports Illustrated's Stephanie Apstein, retracting his organization's allegation that she attempted “to fabricate a story” last week.