Rangers clubhouse leader Austin Hedges close to a deal to return to Cleveland
The Cleveland Guardians are reuniting with Austin Hedges, agreeing with the popular veteran catcher on a $4 million, one-year contract, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Hedges, who played in Cleveland from 2020-22, will sign the contract once he passes a physical, said the person who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the deal can’t be finalized until the medical tests are completed.
The Guardians made two moves with their catching on Sunday, trading Christian Bethancourt to the Miami Marlins. Cleveland, which claimed Bethancourt off waivers on Nov. 6, will receive cash considerations in the deal.
Although he’s not much of a hitter, Hedges is solid defensively and perhaps most importantly, he’s a clubhouse leader. The Guardians missed his presence last season and especially having him as an influence for younger players.
Hedges finished last season winning a World Series with the Texas Rangers. He got one at-bat against Arizona and struck out.
He’ll be an asset to new Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt, who like Hedges, was a journeyman catcher.
The 31-year-old Hedges batted .184 (34 for 185) with Pittsburgh and Texas last season. The Rangers acquired him before the trade deadline and he wound up pitching in four games, posting a 4.91 ERA in 3 2/3 innings.
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Texas police charge illegal immigrant with capital murder of high school cheerleader
Authorities in Texas announced the arrest on Sunday of an illegal immigrant charged with capital murder for the death of a high school cheerleader.
“On Saturday, December 9th, 2023, with the help of the community, friends, and family, Edna Police Department, in conjunction with the Texas Rangers, were able to apprehend the person responsible for the death of Lizbeth Medina,” a release from the Edna Police Department read.
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The “person responsible” was identified as Rafael Govea Romero, whom authorities described as an “undocumented male subject.”
He was arrested in Schulenburg, over 50 miles from where the 16-year-old Medina was found slain.
Medina, a junior at Edna High School, was found dead on Tuesday after her mother, Jacqueline Medina, discovered her corpse around 7:00 p.m. in the bathtub of Cottonwood Apartments.
Specific details about the suspected murder have not been confirmed, but Romero is facing capital murder charges.
“Lizbeth was getting ready to go to school — she was still in her pajamas,” Ana Medina, the teenager’s aunt, said, according to a report. “We have no information right now about anything. We just want answers.”
“My sister is inconsolable. Any mother would understand the pain she’s going through.”
The 16-year-old was described as a cheerleader “loved by many” who wanted to become a nurse.
Her face would light up with joy every time she cheered for the Edna football team.
“I would like to take this opportunity to show my appreciation to all those that assisted this week following the death of Lizbeth. First, I would like to thank my crew here at Edna Police Department,” Edna Police Chief Rick Boone said.
“As you know, we are a small department, and this can call for a great demand to be put on my officers. They not only stepped up during their own shifts but worked many hours willingly on their days off and past their own shift times. They were dedicated to seeking justice for Lizbeth, and it showed in their many, many hours spent investigating this crime. I am proud to call them my team!”
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