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MLB News

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

Saturday, March 14

Josh Naylor Laughs Off Fist-Bump Snub From Teammate Cal Raleigh

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Josh Naylor attempted to share a lighthearted moment with Seattle Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh during a WBC quarterfinal, but was denied a fist bump. Naylor, who had texted Raleigh beforehand about the attempt, emphasized that the interaction was a joke and that he holds no ill will toward his teammate. He praised Raleigh as a leader and a close friend, noting that they plan to laugh about the incident once they return to the Mariners' clubhouse in Arizona.

Cal Raleigh Maintains No-Fist-Bump Policy During WBC Play

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Cal Raleigh has continued his policy of declining in-game fist bumps during the World Baseball Classic, recently snubbing Mariners teammate Josh Naylor and Randy Arozarena. Raleigh explained that he remains hyper-focused on the high-stakes nature of the WBC, viewing the games as significantly more meaningful than Spring Training. Despite the public snubs, teammates like Naylor have clarified that there is no genuine animosity and they remain on good terms.

Merrill Kelly Expects To Open Season On Injured List

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Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly confirmed Friday that he expects to begin the regular season on the injured list due to a back issue. While Kelly did not disclose specific details regarding the recovery plan, he successfully completed 1.2 innings and 36 pitches during his Cactus League debut. If placed on the IL following spring training, the move can be backdated three days, meaning Kelly would miss the first 12 days of the regular season.

Luis Arraez Featured In Giants Defensive Training Video

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Luis Arraez was featured in a recent video released by the San Francisco Giants' social media team. The footage highlights Arraez participating in defensive drills at second base under the guidance of coach Ron Washington. This video is part of an ongoing instructional series produced by the Giants' media team during the spring training period.

Andrew Painter Shows Growth in Third Spring Training Start

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In his third spring training start, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Andrew Painter demonstrated significant development, adopting the mentality of a big leaguer while working through his outing against the Toronto Blue Jays. While the performance featured a mix of positive and negative results, the focus remains on his continued progression and ability to secure outs during this developmental phase of the spring. He continues to refine his approach as he prepares for the upcoming season.

Friday, March 13

Kodai Senga Dominates with Three Perfect Innings in Spring Outing

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Kodai Senga delivered a dominant performance in his second Grapefruit League start, firing three perfect innings with five strikeouts in a 1-0 loss to the Marlins. Senga averaged 96.5 mph on his four-seam fastball, topping out at 98.6 mph. The right-hander, who threw an additional 30 pitches in the bullpen following his 38-pitch outing, emphasized his health as the primary objective. Senga is looking to regain the form that saw him post a 1.39 ERA during the first half of last season.

Shohei Ohtani Continues Pitching Progression During WBC Participation

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While not pitching for Team Japan in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Ohtani is actively preparing for the MLB season, recently completing four simulated innings in Miami. The Dodgers are monitoring his progress via Trackman data. Ohtani remains Japan's designated hitter for the quarterfinals. Reflecting on his international journey, Ohtani has evolved from a 2012 teenage prodigy into a global superstar and captain, currently seeking back-to-back WBC titles for Samurai Japan.

Casey Mize Struggles in Spring Outing, Seeks Mechanical Fixes

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Casey Mize allowed six runs on six hits and four walks over 3.2 innings in a 7-5 spring loss to the Pirates. The 28-year-old struggled with his mechanics and timing, issuing four walks in the first two innings and surrendering a two-run homer to Jhostynxon Garcia. Mize, who remains focused on his preparation for the regular season, stated he is not panicking and plans to work with coaches Robin Lund and Chris Fetter to refine his delivery before his next start.

Merrill Kelly Debuts in Spring Training Amid Back Concerns

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Merrill Kelly made his 2026 Spring Training debut, throwing 36 pitches over 1.2 innings against the Royals. While he showed promise with three whiffs on his changeup, he allowed two runs on six hits while dealing with lingering back soreness that has hampered him since camp began. Kelly utilized a fastball-heavy approach (36%) as he continues to ramp up his workload. His status will be monitored closely to see how his back responds to the increased activity in the coming days.

Jeff Hoffman Added to Team USA Roster for WBC Semifinals

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Reliever Jeff Hoffman has been added to the United States roster for the World Baseball Classic semifinals. Hoffman replaces Clayton Kershaw, who will not be participating in the remainder of the tournament. The move comes as Team USA prepares for the next round following their 5-3 victory over Canada.

Clayton Kershaw Removed From Team USA World Baseball Classic Roster

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Clayton Kershaw will not participate in the World Baseball Classic semifinals for Team USA. After failing to pitch in the tournament's opening round, he is being replaced on the roster by reliever Jeff Hoffman. Reports previously indicated Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan was a candidate to fill the spot, but the final decision confirms Hoffman will take the roster position as the United States advances to the next round of play.

Miguel Rojas Sparks Dodgers Offense With Leadoff Double Against Mariners

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Miguel Rojas served as the designated hitter in Friday's 10-7 exhibition win against the Seattle Mariners. Rojas ignited the Dodgers' offense immediately by hitting a booming leadoff double off the centerfield wall and subsequently swiping third base. His aggressive play at the top of the lineup set the tone for a six-run sixth inning, contributing significantly to the team's victory in Peoria as he continues his spring training preparation.

Kyle Tucker Hits First Home Run in Dodger Blue During Win Over Mariners

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Kyle Tucker hit his first home run as a Dodger during Friday's 10-7 Cactus League victory over the Seattle Mariners. Tucker, who started in right field, also contributed to the offense by drawing a walk and scoring in the first inning. Throughout the game, he faced challenges from Seattle pitchers, including a walk and a solo home run off reliever Robinson Ortiz in the sixth inning, marking a productive outing as he settles into his new role with the team.

Juan Soto Praises Managerial Leadership of Albert Pujols

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Juan Soto, currently playing under Albert Pujols for the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, has lauded the former slugger's leadership style. Soto noted that having a legend like Pujols in the clubhouse is special because he truly understands the player experience, from the mechanics of every swing to the pressures of in-game decision-making. Soto believes Pujols' ability to relate to his players makes him an exceptional manager.

Peers Advocate for Albert Pujols to Secure MLB Managerial Role

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Dusty Baker and Juan Soto are advocating for Albert Pujols to secure an MLB managerial position immediately, citing his vast experience, baseball knowledge, and ability to connect with players. Currently managing the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Pujols interviewed for openings with the Angels, Padres, and Orioles this offseason. Pujols remains humble, emphasizing his commitment to learning the nuances of the role from his past Hall of Fame mentors.

Gerrit Cole Continues Rehab Progress Following Tommy John Surgery

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Gerrit Cole is actively working through his rehabilitation process as he eyes a return to the mound for the New York Yankees. Having missed the entirety of the 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery, Cole is currently focused on his recovery workouts during spring training. The team and observers are closely monitoring his progress as he works to regain his form and rejoin the rotation for the 2026 season.

A.J. Minter Targets May Return Following Lat Muscle Surgery

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Mets reliever A.J. Minter is progressing through rehab after a 2025 season-ending lat muscle tear. The 32-year-old lefty, who has previously undergone Tommy John and thoracic outlet surgeries, recently completed his third live batting practice session. While he hopes to appear in a Grapefruit League game, he will not be available for the season's first month. Minter, who expressed frustration over missing last year's playoff push, is currently hitting 92-93 mph on his fastball.

Cal Raleigh Continues Catching Duties for Team USA

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Cal Raleigh continues to share catching responsibilities for Team USA during the World Baseball Classic. Following the team's 5-3 quarterfinal win over Canada on Friday, the United States has advanced to the semifinals. They are scheduled to face the Dominican Republic on Sunday night at loanDepot Park in Miami.

Will Smith Sits Out WBC Quarterfinal Against Canada

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Will Smith did not appear in the United States' 5-3 victory over Canada in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal on Friday. Smith has been splitting catching duties with Cal Raleigh throughout the tournament. The United States secured the win and will move on to face the Dominican Republic in the semifinals on Sunday night at loanDepot Park in Miami.

Jonathan India Exits Cactus League Game With Groin Injury

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Jonathan India was removed from Friday's Cactus League game against the Diamondbacks in the third inning due to right groin tightness. Before his exit, he went 1-for-1 with a double and a run scored. India will undergo further testing, and the Royals are expected to provide an update soon. The timing of the injury puts his status for Opening Day in jeopardy, with Michael Massey, Maikel Garcia, and Nick Loftin potentially serving as depth options.