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MLB News

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

Thursday, March 12

Zack Wheeler to Face Hitters Saturday in Recovery Milestone

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Zack Wheeler is set to throw a live batting practice session Saturday, marking his first time facing hitters since undergoing thoracic outlet surgery last September. While the Phillies have not confirmed if he will appear in Grapefruit League games, the session is a significant step in his recovery. Wheeler is expected to begin the 2026 season on the 15-day injured list, though the team remains optimistic for a brief absence if his progression continues without interruption.

Matthew Boyd Named Cubs Opening Day Starter Against Nationals

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Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell announced on Thursday that left-hander Matthew Boyd will take the mound as the team's Opening Day starter. Boyd is set to face the Washington Nationals to kick off the 2026 regular season campaign.

Mike Burrows Takes Mound for Astros Against Nationals

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RHP Mike Burrows makes his fourth Spring Training start for the Houston Astros against the Washington Nationals. Burrows has been impressive this spring, posting 8.2 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts, a 0.81 WHIP, and a .103 opponent batting average. Acquired in an offseason three-team trade from Pittsburgh, Burrows previously recorded a 3.94 ERA over 96 innings in 2025.

Vinnie Pasquantino Makes History with Three-Homer WBC Game

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Vinnie Pasquantino became the first player to hit three home runs in a single World Baseball Classic game, leading Team Italy to a 9-1 victory over Mexico. After a 0-for-12 start to the tournament, his 3-for-4 performance secured Italy's spot in the knockout round. Pasquantino's power surge has drawn significant attention as he prepares for the upcoming season with the Royals. His historic run with Italy reportedly began with recruiting DMs sent over Thanksgiving.

Bailey Ober Velocity Concerns Persist in Spring Outing

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Bailey Ober allowed one run on five hits and a walk over 2.2 innings against the Red Sox on Thursday. His fastball velocity averaged 88.8 mph, a concerning trend following a 2025 season where he averaged a career-low 90.3 mph. While his velocity sat in the low 90s early in camp, it has declined in his recent appearances. The 30-year-old right-hander is looking to regain form after struggling to a 5.10 ERA last season, making his current velocity dip a notable development.

Prospect Sean Sullivan Continues Spring Rotation Bid

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Top Rockies prospect Sean Sullivan is set to start against the Diamondbacks. The lefty has impressed this spring with his deception and breaking pitches, posting seven strikeouts and three walks over 6 2/3 innings across four outings. While his four-seam fastball velocity remains a concern, Sullivan is competing for a spot in the big-league rotation. Although unlikely to break camp on the active roster, he continues to receive opportunities to showcase his skills.

Taylor Clarke Faces Rockies in Spring Training Matchup

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Right-handed reliever Taylor Clarke is scheduled to start for the Diamondbacks against the Colorado Rockies. Clarke, who returned to the Diamondbacks this off-season after three seasons with the Kansas City Royals, has been effective this spring, having not allowed an earned run over four innings of work. He utilizes a four-pitch mix, highlighted by a mid-to-high 80s slider with strong glove-side break, and is noted for his ability to avoid walks.

Ivan Herrera Nears Return to Grapefruit League Action

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After being sidelined by knee inflammation, Ivan Herrera is nearing a return to Grapefruit League play. He recorded eight plate appearances in a backfields game Wednesday, including a home run. Herrera is expected to be back in the lineup within a day or two, likely easing in as a designated hitter before resuming catching duties. He is projected to serve as the Cardinals' primary designated hitter while also contributing behind the plate this season.

J.T. Ginn Gets the Start for Athletics Against Rangers

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J.T. Ginn is set to start for the Oakland Athletics against the Texas Rangers. The 26-year-old right-hander has posted a 1-1 record and a 4.50 ERA over three starts this spring, recording eight strikeouts in eight innings of work. The Athletics enter the matchup riding a five-game winning streak, having scored 51 runs during that span.

Josh Jung Delayed in Return from Grade 1 Adductor Strain

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Josh Jung remains sidelined with a Grade 1 adductor strain, missing his targeted return to the Rangers' Cactus League lineup on Thursday. Manager Skip Schumaker noted the injury is not progressing as initially hoped, though he remains optimistic about Jung's availability for Opening Day. While the 28-year-old is not yet ready for game action, the team expects him to be cleared within a couple of days. Jung cannot afford further delays as he works toward his season debut.

Aaron Judge Card Sells for Record-Breaking $5.2 Million

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A 2013 one-of-one signed Aaron Judge Bowman Chrome Draft Superfractor card has sold for a record $5.2 million, the highest price ever paid for a modern baseball card. The sale eclipses the previous $3.94 million record held by a Mike Trout card. Judge now joins an elite group of baseball legends, including Babe Ruth and Honus Wagner, to have a card sell for at least $5 million. Industry analysts continue to monitor Judge's status as the sport's premier hitter.

Clayton Kershaw to be Replaced on Team USA Roster After Quarterfinal

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Retired Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw will be removed from the Team USA roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic following Friday’s quarterfinal game against Canada. Manager Mark DeRosa confirmed that Kershaw, who has not made an appearance in the tournament through four games, will have one final opportunity to pitch Friday before being replaced by Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan.

Joe Ryan to Replace Clayton Kershaw on Team USA WBC Roster

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Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan is set to join the Team USA roster for the World Baseball Classic. Ryan will replace Clayton Kershaw on the squad following Friday’s quarterfinal game against Canada. Ryan could be in line to start the championship game if the United States advances to that point in the tournament.

Ben Williamson Shows Defensive Versatility and Power Growth This Spring

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Acquired from the Cardinals, Ben Williamson is competing for a utility infielder role with the Rays. While his offensive ceiling remains limited, he has displayed above-average defense at shortstop and second base. Williamson has shown a notable increase in raw power indicators, with his 90th percentile exit velocity rising to 104.9 mph. He is working to improve his launch angles to better translate that raw power into consistent game impact.

Colton Ledbetter Traded to Rays in Offseason Deal

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Colton Ledbetter was part of the offseason trade package sent to the Tampa Bay Rays, alongside a Comp B pick, in exchange for infielder Ben Williamson. Ledbetter was identified as a 4th outfielder profile in the transaction.

Michael McGreevy to Start for Cardinals Against Mets

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St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Michael McGreevy is scheduled to make the start for the team in their spring training game against the New York Mets on Thursday, March 12, at Roger Dean Stadium.

Korbyn Dickerson Debuts at #11 in Mariners Prospect Rankings

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Korbyn Dickerson debuts at #11 in the Mariners' prospect rankings. A 2025 fifth-round pick, Dickerson possesses a high-upside toolkit featuring effortless power and 60-grade speed. While he faces concerns regarding his hit tool and zone recognition, his plus defense in center field provides a high floor. He is expected to be a prominent feature in the Everett lineup to start the season as he continues his development.

J.C. Escarra Catching for Tigers

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J.C. Escarra is starting at catcher and batting fifth for the Detroit Tigers in their spring training game against the New York Yankees.

Ben Rice Batting Leadoff for Yankees

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Ben Rice is leading off and starting at first base for the New York Yankees in their spring training game against the Detroit Tigers.

Colt Keith Batting Third for Tigers

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Colt Keith is batting third and playing third base for the Detroit Tigers in their spring training game against the New York Yankees.