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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Friday, April 17

Red Sox Support Garrett Crochet Following Career-Worst Start

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Despite a recent career-worst outing, the Red Sox organization remains confident in Garrett Crochet. Pitching coach Andrew Bailey emphasized that even the greatest pitchers face tough days and that the team is not worried about his performance. Meanwhile, fans missed out on a highly anticipated pitching duel between Crochet and Tarik Skubal as the Red Sox prepare for their series against the Tigers.

Nolan McLean Highlighted as Viable Two-Start Pitcher

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Nolan McLean has been identified as a viable two-start pitching option for the fourth week of the 2026 season, providing fantasy managers with a potential boost for their upcoming weekly matchups.

Shota Imanaga Projected for Two Starts Next Week

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Shota Imanaga is among the projected two-start pitchers for the fourth week of the 2026 season, making him a valuable option for fantasy baseball managers looking to bolster their pitching rotations.

Dylan Cease Named Among Top Two-Start Pitching Options

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Dylan Cease has been identified as a viable two-start pitcher for the fourth week of the 2026 season. Fantasy managers are looking to him as a key rotation option for the upcoming week of play.

Mick Abel Emerges as Key Fantasy Waiver Wire Target

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Mick Abel has been identified as a notable waiver wire addition for fantasy baseball managers. Analysts Eric Samulski and James Schiano have highlighted Abel as a player to target for rosters. Additionally, he is projected as a two-start pitcher for the upcoming fourth week of the 2026 season.

Juan Soto Nearing Return From 10-Day Injured List

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Juan Soto is making steady progress in his recovery from a calf injury. He is actively participating in baseball activities and remains on track to be activated from the 10-day injured list next week. The Mets continue to monitor his rehabilitation schedule as he works toward his return to the lineup.

Edgar Quero Delivers Elite Performance in ABS Game

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Edgar Quero has delivered an exceptional performance, recording what is being described as the best ABS (Automated Ball-Strike system) game ever seen from a catcher. This standout showing highlights his defensive and game-calling capabilities, marking a significant individual achievement in his recent development.

Shohei Ohtani Featured in Dodgers Notes and Daily Fantasy Picks

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Shohei Ohtani is currently being evaluated as part of the Dodgers' early-season performance reviews alongside teammates Kyle Tucker and Edwin Díaz. Beyond team-specific updates, Ohtani remains a top priority for daily Fantasy baseball players, with experts like Mike McClure highlighting him as a premier option for DraftKings and FanDuel lineups for the Friday, April 17 slate of games.

Jeremiah Jackson Continues Productive Stretch

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Jeremiah Jackson is being highlighted as a key fantasy baseball waiver wire target. Analysts Eric Samulski and James Schiano noted his recent production as a reason for fantasy managers to consider adding him to their rosters for the upcoming weekend.

Cam Smith Extension Status Under Scrutiny

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The Houston Astros are facing questions regarding their potential extension window for Cam Smith. As the team navigates significant starting pitching depth issues and increased reliance on their bullpen, analysts are questioning if the organization is missing a prime opportunity to secure a long-term deal with Smith.

Mason Miller Extends Scoreless Streak

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Kansas City Royals pitcher Mason Miller continues to impress, maintaining his current scoreless streak as of April 17, 2026. Miller's consistent performance remains a key storyline in the league's recent news cycle.

Carson Benge Elevated to Leadoff Spot

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Carson Benge will start in right field and serve as the leadoff hitter for the New York Mets in Friday's game against the Chicago Cubs. This promotion to the top of the order highlights his role in the Mets' offensive strategy for the contest.

Max Ferguson Powers Sea Dogs With Grand Slam

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Max Ferguson delivered a standout performance for the Sea Dogs, hitting a grand slam that proved decisive in their victory over Altoona. His power hitting was the primary driver of the team's offensive success in the game.

Juan Valera Exits Game With Elbow Injury

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Juan Valera was forced to leave his recent minor league game early due to an elbow injury. His departure significantly impacted the team's performance, as the Drive ultimately lost the contest following his exit.

Lucas Erceg Charged With Loss After Blown Save

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Lucas Erceg (0-1) suffered a difficult outing Thursday against the Tigers, blowing a save opportunity and taking the loss. Erceg struggled during his appearance, allowing three runs on three hits and one walk while recording only one strikeout over two-thirds of an inning. The Royals will look for him to regain his form in future high-leverage situations.

Spencer Strider Dominates in High-A Rehab Start

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Spencer Strider (oblique) looked sharp during his rehab start for High-A Rome on Thursday. He tossed 3.1 scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out three. Reports indicate he appeared far too advanced for the level, effectively utilizing his slider to baffle hitters. The Braves are encouraged by his progress as he works his way back to the major league roster.

Colt Emerson Highlighted in Mariners Update

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Colt Emerson was featured in a recent update covering the Seattle Mariners. The report provided context on the team's recent performance in San Diego and analyzed the competitive outlook for the Mariners within the AL West division.

Justin Turner Mentioned in Mariners News Roundup

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Justin Turner was mentioned in recent news coverage regarding the Seattle Mariners' current landscape and their upcoming competition in the AL West. The coverage reflects on the team's recent series in San Diego and looks ahead to future matchups.

Orlando Ribalta Pushing for Bullpen Role

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Orlando Ribalta is gaining attention as a potential breakout arm for the Washington Nationals' bullpen. Analysts suggest that given the current state of the Nationals' relief corps, Ribalta has a clear path to rising through the ranks if he maintains his current level of performance on the mound.

Jackson Holliday Resumes Rehab Assignment

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Jackson Holliday (wrist) is set to resume his rehab assignment with High-A Frederick this weekend. The update was confirmed by his father, Matt Holliday, on Thursday. The Orioles prospect is working his way back to full health as he looks to return to the organization's active plans.