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MLB News

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

Thursday, March 12

Luis Robert Makes Spring Debut, Mets Prioritize Long-Term Health

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Luis Robert Jr. made his Grapefruit League debut Thursday, playing five innings in center field and finishing 1-for-3 in a loss to the Cardinals. The Mets have been cautious with Robert this spring, focusing on lower-body strengthening to ensure his durability. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed optimism about Robert's health and potential, noting that the team plans to progress him toward full-game action as Opening Day approaches on March 26.

Edward Cabrera Sharp in Four-Inning Outing

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Edward Cabrera delivered a strong performance for the Cubs, throwing 60 pitches across 3.2 innings while striking out three in a 7-4 win over the Mariners. Cabrera allowed one run in the third inning but otherwise looked effective as he competes for a spot in the Cubs' rotation. A notable moment occurred in the first inning when an ABS challenge overturned a ball-four call against Brennen Davis into a strikeout, providing a successful test of the system for catcher Carson Kelly.

Will Warren Sharp in Six-Inning Outing Against Tigers

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Yankees pitcher Will Warren delivered a strong six-inning performance against the Tigers, continuing his impressive spring. Warren has successfully adjusted his release point by moving to the third base side of the rubber, a change he credits for sharper pitches and improved confidence. Manager Aaron Boone praised his efficiency and development. Warren is currently competing for a rotation spot, aiming to avoid the inconsistent outings that hindered his performance last season.

Caleb Ferguson Sidelined by Oblique Strain

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Caleb Ferguson will miss Opening Day for the Cincinnati Reds due to an oblique injury that will sideline him for at least two weeks. The left-handed reliever, signed this offseason to a 1-year, $4.5 million contract, was expected to be a key piece of the bullpen. His absence creates roster opportunities for other arms, with Sam Moll and Brock Burke now serving as the primary left-handed relief options for the team as they adjust their pitching staff heading into the new season.

Hayden Birdsong Sidelined by Elbow Soreness

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Giants right-hander Hayden Birdsong is undergoing medical tests after reporting right elbow soreness following an outing on Tuesday. Birdsong, who had been competing for a bullpen spot and recently hit 99 mph, will be evaluated by team doctors. The Giants are expected to be extremely cautious with the young pitcher, who remains a significant part of the organization's future plans.

Jake Irvin Takes Mound Against Astros in Spring Action

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RHP Jake Irvin is set to start for the Washington Nationals against the Houston Astros at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. Irvin has impressed this spring, throwing 5 scoreless innings with 6 strikeouts. With the Nationals' rotation competition tightening due to the addition of Zack Littell, this start is critical for Irvin to demonstrate his improvements and secure his spot on the roster.

Dalton Rushing Starts Behind Plate vs. Reds

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Dalton Rushing is starting at catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their Thursday night spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Andy Pages Starts in Center Field Against Reds

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Andy Pages is starting in center field for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their Thursday night spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Alex Call Starts in Right Field vs. Reds

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Alex Call is starting in right field for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their Thursday night spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Alex Vesia Scheduled to Pitch Against Reds

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Alex Vesia is scheduled to make a pitching appearance for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Thursday night's spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Freddie Freeman Starts at First Base vs. Reds

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Freddie Freeman is in the starting lineup at first base for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Thursday night's spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Nick Senzel Starts at Second Base Against Reds

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Nick Senzel is starting at second base for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their Thursday night spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Santiago Espinal Serves as DH Against Reds

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Santiago Espinal is in the starting lineup as the designated hitter for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Thursday night's spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Miguel Rojas Leads Off at Shortstop vs. Reds

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Miguel Rojas is starting at shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their Thursday night spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch.

Tanner Scott Scheduled for Mound Appearance vs. Reds

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Tanner Scott is scheduled to pitch in Thursday night's spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds at Camelback Ranch. He is part of a group of bullpen contenders for the Dodgers, including Alex Vesia, Kyle Hurt, and Paul Gervase, who are all slated to see action in the contest.

Landon Knack to Start Friday Against Mariners

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Landon Knack is slated to make his fourth appearance of the spring as the starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Friday's road game against the Seattle Mariners at Peoria Sports Complex.

Christian Vázquez Rejoins Astros After WBC Stint

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Christian Vázquez has rejoined the Houston Astros on a minor league deal after participating in the World Baseball Classic with Puerto Rico. While he is currently competing for a spot on the Opening Day roster, the team faces a decision regarding catcher Cèsar Salazar, who is out of options. The Astros are evaluating their depth as they finalize their 26-man roster for the 2026 season.

Josh Hader to Begin 2026 Season on Injured List

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Astros closer Josh Hader will start the 2026 season on the injured list while recovering from a biceps issue. His absence forces the Houston bullpen to adjust its late-inning strategy. The team is currently evaluating its Opening Day roster, with Enyel De Los Santos potentially stepping into a larger role if he recovers from his own injury concerns in time for the start of the campaign.

Anthony Volpe Ramps Up Defensive Rehab Work

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Anthony Volpe completed a high-intensity defensive workout at full speed on Thursday as he continues his recovery from shoulder labrum surgery. The 24-year-old shortstop is expected to be about two weeks away from taking live batting practice. While Volpe will begin the 2026 season on the injured list, he is progressing well and could potentially make his season debut before the end of April.

Jack Leiter Set to Start Against Athletics in Spring Training

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Right-hander Jack Leiter is scheduled to start for the Texas Rangers in a Spring Training matchup against the Oakland Athletics at Surprise Stadium. The 25-year-old enters the contest with a 1-1 record and a 5.14 ERA across three spring appearances. Leiter, who previously faced the Seattle Mariners on March 6, continues his preparation for the regular season as he looks to refine his performance against American League West competition.