Player news from trusted outlets

MLB News

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

Thursday, March 19

Gabriel Moreno Returns to Lineup as DH Following Forearm Injury

AutoDraft Pro AI

Gabriel Moreno is set to return to action after dealing with a forearm injury. The catcher is slated to start as Arizona's designated hitter and will bat fifth in Thursday's Cactus League matchup against the White Sox. This appearance marks a key step in his recovery as he works his way back into the team's regular rotation.

Zack Wheeler Set for Minor-League Pitching Appearance Monday

AutoDraft Pro AI

Zack Wheeler is scheduled to pitch in a minor-league game this coming Monday as he continues his progression from a shoulder issue. The Phillies right-hander is working through his recovery plan to ensure he is ready for the upcoming season. This appearance marks a significant step in his return to the mound, providing the team with a clearer timeline for his availability. Further analysis on his status and recovery progress will be available via RotoWire.

Shohei Ohtani Dominates in Spring Training Pitching Debut

AutoDraft Pro AI

Shohei Ohtani delivered a strong performance in his Cactus League pitching debut Wednesday against the Giants. The Dodgers star tossed 4.1 scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out four batters. His command and efficiency were on display throughout the outing, marking a successful start to his spring preparation. This dominant showing highlights his readiness as he transitions into the new season. Additional analysis is available on RotoWire.

Paul Skenes Named Pittsburgh Pirates Opening Day Starter

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Pittsburgh Pirates have officially tapped Paul Skenes to take the mound for the team's Opening Day matchup against the New York Mets on March 26. This assignment marks a significant milestone for the young pitcher as he prepares to lead the rotation for the upcoming season. Further analysis and detailed projections regarding his performance and the team's outlook for the opener are available via RotoWire.

Gerrit Cole Returns to Mound for Scoreless Spring Debut

AutoDraft Pro AI

Gerrit Cole made his return to action following his elbow recovery, tossing one scoreless inning against the Boston Red Sox in Wednesday's Grapefruit League contest. During his outing, Cole allowed two hits while recording no walks and no strikeouts. The appearance serves as a key step in his progression during spring training. Additional analysis on his recovery and performance trajectory can be found on RotoWire.

Top Prospect Carson Williams Poised for Opening Day Start

AutoDraft Pro AI

Carson Williams is a primary candidate to start at shortstop for the Tampa Bay Rays on Opening Day. The top prospect is back in big-league camp and is in line for a significant promotion following the news that incumbent Taylor Walls has been placed on the 10-day injured list. Williams is currently positioned to take over the starting role as the Rays adjust their roster to account for the injury to Walls.

Taylor Walls Placed on 10-Day IL With Right Oblique Strain

AutoDraft Pro AI

Tampa Bay Rays infielder Taylor Walls will begin the 2026 season on the 10-day injured list due to a strained right oblique. The injury has created a vacancy at the shortstop position, which may be filled by prospect Carson Williams to start the campaign. Walls' status will be monitored as he works through his recovery process.

Trey Yesavage to Open Season on 15-Day Injured List

AutoDraft Pro AI

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Trey Yesavage will begin the 2026 season on the 15-day injured list due to a right shoulder impingement. Manager John Schneider confirmed the status on Thursday. The team will continue to monitor his recovery timeline, and further updates regarding his availability will be provided as he progresses through his rehabilitation program.

Jac Caglianone Concludes Strong WBC Performance for Italy

AutoDraft Pro AI

Caglianone wrapped up his World Baseball Classic run with Italy, posting a 4-for-14 performance across five games. His production included a double, a home run, four RBI, a stolen base, and five walks. The Royals prospect demonstrated solid offensive versatility during the international tournament.

Robert Hassell Optioned to Triple-A Rochester

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Nationals officially optioned Robert Hassell to Triple-A Rochester on Wednesday. The move comes as the team finalizes its roster decisions, resulting in Hassell missing out on the Opening Day roster.

Josiah Gray Sent Down to Triple-A Rochester

AutoDraft Pro AI

In a roster move on Wednesday, the Nationals optioned Josiah Gray to Triple-A Rochester. The decision impacts the team's pitching depth as they prepare for the start of the regular season.

Bobby Witt Records Solid WBC Stats for Team USA

AutoDraft Pro AI

Bobby Witt finished his World Baseball Classic stint with the United States, batting 6-for-24 over six games. His stat line included two doubles, three stolen bases, three runs scored, and six walks. Witt provided consistent contributions throughout his time with the national team.

Brent Rooker's Evolution: From Early Struggles to All-Star Slugger

AutoDraft Pro AI

After enduring significant struggles early in his professional career, Brent Rooker has successfully transformed into a powerhouse hitter for the Athletics. Beyond his offensive production, Rooker has emerged as a vital vocal leader within the team's young clubhouse. His journey from overcoming repeated failure to achieving All-Star status highlights his resilience and development into a cornerstone designated hitter for the Oakland organization.

Wednesday, March 18

Shohei Ohtani Dominates in Spring Debut and Earns WBC Honors

AutoDraft Pro AI

Shohei Ohtani impressed in his spring pitching debut for the Dodgers, tossing 4 1/3 scoreless innings against the Giants. He allowed just one hit and two walks while recording four strikeouts and hitting 99 mph on his fastball. Beyond his spring performance, Ohtani was officially named to the World Baseball Classic All-Tournament team following a standout showing that included three home runs. The Dodgers continue to prioritize his preparation as he ramps up for the 2026 regular season.

Maikel Garcia Earns Spot on WBC All-Tournament Team

AutoDraft Pro AI

Maikel Garcia has been officially named to the World Baseball Classic All-Tournament team. The recognition highlights his standout performance during the international competition. Garcia, representing the Kansas City Royals, continues to build momentum following his contributions to the tournament.

Roman Anthony Named to WBC All-Tournament Team and Fantasy Prospect

AutoDraft Pro AI

Roman Anthony has been recognized as a top fantasy prospect for the 2026 season, with analysts highlighting his high upside and recommending him as a must-draft player. Furthermore, Anthony earned a spot on the World Baseball Classic All-Tournament team for his performance during the event. He remains a key player to watch for the Red Sox as he continues to develop.

Kyle Harrison Exits Spring Start Early Due to Blister

AutoDraft Pro AI

Kyle Harrison, currently competing for a spot in the Milwaukee Brewers' starting rotation, was forced to exit his Wednesday spring training start due to a blister on his left index finger. Harrison had been slated to start as part of the team's split-squad action to continue his development. His status will be monitored as the team manages its roster through the remainder of exhibition play.

Caleb Durbin Named Starting Third Baseman for Red Sox

AutoDraft Pro AI

Caleb Durbin has officially secured the starting third base job for the Boston Red Sox heading into Opening Day. Durbin, who was acquired by Boston in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers just prior to the start of spring training, has successfully transitioned into the role. His promotion to the starting lineup marks a significant roster development for the Red Sox as they finalize their infield configuration.

Brady Singer Exits Cactus League Start Due to Blister

AutoDraft Pro AI

Brady Singer, currently participating in the Cincinnati Reds' split-squad exhibition schedule, was forced to exit Wednesday's Cactus League game against the Rockies early. The removal was prompted by a blister. Prior to the injury, Singer had been actively preparing for the upcoming season, including a scheduled matchup against Jose Quintana. His status will be monitored as he continues his spring training progression.

J.P. Crawford Receives Cortisone Shot, Opening Day Status Uncertain

AutoDraft Pro AI

Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford's status for Opening Day remains in doubt after he received a cortisone injection in his injured shoulder on Wednesday. Manager Dan Wilson confirmed it is currently unclear if Crawford will be ready for the season opener next Thursday. The team is closely monitoring the situation as they finalize their roster plans, with the shoulder issue continuing to pose a significant concern for Seattle.