Morning Mound Visit: Corbin Burnes strikes out record 58 batters before walking one

Kyle Lesniewski | Brew Crew Ball: The day after Gerrit Cole tied the record for most strikeouts without allowing a walk, Corbin Burnes broke it. Burnes ran it up to 58 strikeouts before issuing his first walk of the season. Cole’s streak is still active at 56, so he’ll have a chance to tie or break it.

Al Yellon | Bleed Cubbie Blue: The Cubs were one of several teams to announce plans to increase allowed capacity Thursday ahead of the CDC’s announcement that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks or socially distance in most indoor settings. The Cubs will ramp up to 60 percent capacity starting May 28. They have been at 25 percent to begin the season. In addition, the Brewers will allow 100 percent on June 25, the Phillies will allow 100 percent on June 12, and the Twins will allow 100 percent on July 5.

Andrew Baggarly and Eno Sarris | The Athletic $: Leaguewide, base stealers have been successful 76.9 percent of the time which is the most successful they’ve ever been. There are a variety of factors contributing to the rise in success rate including strikeout-focused pitchers and framing-focused catchers. Mostly, teams like the Giants have gotten smarter about when to go.

Quick Hits

Albert Pujols cleared waivers and is now a free agent.

According to a report from William Boor, Diamondbacks top prospect Corbin Carroll will have season-ending surgery. In seven games at High-A Hillsboro, Carroll was hitting .435/.552/.913.

Joey Gallo preserved a 3-3 tie in the 10th inning with a perfect throw to nail Chas McCormick.