AutoDraft Pro
Get the app

Player news from trusted outlets

MLB News

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

Monday, March 9

Masataka Yoshida Dominates WBC with 1.800 OPS, Six RBIs for Team Japan

AutoDraft Pro AI

Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida is having an exceptional World Baseball Classic, logging an OPS nearing 1.800 and driving in six runs across three pool play games for Team Japan. His performance includes a clutch two-run home run against Australia on Sunday, and he is on pace to potentially break his own WBC RBI record of 13 set in 2023. Crucially, there are no signs of the shoulder issue that sidelined him for much of 2025, as he's consistently hitting powerful extra-base hits rather than ground balls, signaling a potential turning point for his Red Sox tenure.

Jonathan Bowlan Competing for Phillies Bullpen Spot

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jonathan Bowlan is vying for a final spot in the Philadelphia Phillies' bullpen this spring. Acquired from Kansas City, the 6-foot-6 right-hander is noted for his high swing-and-miss rate, particularly with his four-seam fastball, which generated a 43.5 percent whiff rate in 2025. After transitioning to a relief role at Triple-A in 2024, Bowlan is looking to leverage his five-pitch mix to secure a permanent role on the Phillies' major league roster.

Romy Gonzalez Weighing Shoulder Surgery to Address Lingering Issue

AutoDraft Pro AI

Red Sox infielder Romy Gonzalez is exploring the possibility of surgery to remedy a persistent shoulder injury that has plagued him since last September. The utility man's status remains a significant concern for Boston as spring training progresses. While the team hopes for a recovery without surgical intervention, the ongoing nature of the ailment suggests a potential long-term absence if he opts for the procedure. His availability for the start of the 2026 season remains in serious doubt.

Roki Sasaki to Make Next Spring Start on Backfields After Struggles

AutoDraft Pro AI

Dodgers phenom Roki Sasaki is scheduled to make his next start on the backfields rather than in a Cactus League game following a bullpen session on Sunday. Sasaki’s spring has been inconsistent as he integrates new pitches, posting seven runs allowed and five walks over 3.1 innings. By moving his next outing away from official exhibition play, the Dodgers aim to give the right-hander a controlled environment to refine his mechanics and command before the start of the regular season.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto Set for WBC Quarterfinal Start in Miami

AutoDraft Pro AI

Following Japan's successful run in Pool C, Dodgers right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto is the presumed starter for Saturday's World Baseball Classic quarterfinal matchup in Miami. Yamamoto previously threw 55 pitches over 2.2 innings in the tournament opener against Chinese Taipei. His performance is critical as Japan faces either Venezuela or the Dominican Republic. The Dodgers are closely monitoring his workload as he balances international competition with his preparation for the MLB season.

Kevin McGonigle Emerges as Frontrunner for Tigers' Shortstop Job

AutoDraft Pro AI

Top prospect Kevin McGonigle has put himself in position to break camp as the Tigers' starting shortstop following an impressive spring. The 21-year-old has demonstrated improved footwork and defensive consistency, addressing previous concerns about his glove. If McGonigle makes the Opening Day roster, it will shift veterans Javier Báez and Zach McKinstry into utility roles. His advanced hit tool and refined defense make him the lynchpin for Detroit's 2026 positional roster configuration.

Andrew Kittredge to Start Season on IL with Shoulder Inflammation

AutoDraft Pro AI

Veteran reliever Andrew Kittredge will miss Opening Day after the Orioles placed him on the injured list with shoulder inflammation. The 35-year-old right-hander, who recently returned to Baltimore on a one-year deal, had his debut delayed by a knee issue last spring as well. Despite the setback, the Orioles value his veteran presence and postseason experience. The team is treating the injury as precautionary, hoping the All-Star can stabilize the back of the bullpen once he is healthy.

Vinnie Pasquantino Fuels Team Italy's WBC Run with On-Field Energy

AutoDraft Pro AI

Royals first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino is currently representing Team Italy in the World Baseball Classic, where he has become a central figure in the dugout's unique culture. Known for his leadership and high energy, Pasquantino is helping keep the "espressos flowing" for the Italian squad as they compete on the international stage. His participation in the tournament serves as a key part of his preparation for the 2026 MLB season, where he is expected to be a middle-of-the-order bat.

Seth Lugo Shines in WBC Debut with Increased Fastball Velocity

AutoDraft Pro AI

Pitching for Team Puerto Rico, Seth Lugo impressed in his World Baseball Classic outing against Colombia, showcasing a fastball that touched 95 mph. This uptick in velocity follows an offseason focus on arm strength and mechanical refinement. Lugo utilized an effective slurve to record a 28% whiff rate, striking out two in the first inning. The Royals right-hander appears ahead of schedule in his spring progression, commanding the strike zone effectively with his expanded pitching arsenal.

Jurickson Profar Suspended; Braves Adjust Roster Strategy

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jurickson Profar has been suspended, forcing the Atlanta Braves to recalibrate their roster plans. The organization is currently weighing its next steps to address the vacancy, with the recent acquisition of Mike Yastrzemski becoming a focal point of the team's contingency strategy. The Braves are actively evaluating how to manage their lineup and depth in the absence of Profar moving forward.

Mike Yastrzemski Takes On Larger Role Following Profar Suspension

AutoDraft Pro AI

Following the suspension of Jurickson Profar, the signing of Mike Yastrzemski has gained significant importance for the Atlanta Braves. The team is currently evaluating its roster options and strategic direction in the wake of the disciplinary action, placing increased reliance on Yastrzemski to provide stability and production as they navigate the immediate future of their outfield and lineup composition.

Dodgers Option Prospect Ryan Ward to Triple-A Oklahoma City

AutoDraft Pro AI

Despite a stellar season as the Pacific Coast League MVP, 28-year-old prospect Ryan Ward has been optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Ward, who hit 36 home runs last year, faces a crowded Dodgers roster that added Kyle Tucker this offseason. While Ward is gaining versatility by taking reps at first base, he remains behind several established major leaguers on the depth chart. He continues to focus on controlling his performance while awaiting a big league opportunity.

Cade Smith Continues Dominant Spring Outing for Guardians

AutoDraft Pro AI

Cade Smith maintained his strong spring form during the Guardians' 4-4 tie against the Rockies, delivering another scoreless inning of work while recording a strikeout. The right-hander continues to be a standout performer for Cleveland as the team evaluates its bullpen depth throughout the Cactus League schedule.

Sunday, March 8

Anthony Volpe Progresses in Labrum Rehab, No Return Timeline

AutoDraft Pro AI

Shortstop Anthony Volpe is continuing his recovery from offseason surgery to repair a torn labrum. While he has progressed from fielding grounders to diving, he has not yet faced live pitching and remains without a specific timeline for his return to game action. Upon his return, Volpe will face increased competition for the starting job, as the Yankees have expressed significant interest in José Caballero as a potential option at the position.

Aaron Judge Praises Team USA Chemistry in WBC Run

AutoDraft Pro AI

Yankees captain Aaron Judge has expressed his enthusiasm for participating in the World Baseball Classic with Team USA. Highlighting the group's lack of egos and the willingness of star players to accept supplemental roles, Judge noted the team's early success in the tournament. Team USA has won their first two games and is currently positioned to advance to the knockout stage, with Judge serving as a key leader in the international competition.

Bryce Elder Faces Struggles in Spring Rotation Battle

AutoDraft Pro AI

Bryce Elder continues to compete for a spot in the Braves' starting rotation, though recent outings have been challenging. He surrendered five runs over 3.1 innings against the Rays in a game impacted by wind, and followed up with another difficult performance. Despite these setbacks, the Braves are evaluating their pitching depth, and Elder remains a key candidate as the team weighs the necessity of adding external rotation help before the regular season begins.

Dylan Coleman Eyes Bullpen Spot After Velocity Gains

AutoDraft Pro AI

Non-roster invitee Dylan Coleman is competing for a Yankees bullpen role after mechanical adjustments with pitching coach Mason Feole restored his velocity to 99-100 mph. The 29-year-old righty, who previously posted a 2.66 ERA with the Royals, struggled in 2023-24 but has added a sinker to his repertoire. In two Grapefruit League appearances, he has tossed two scoreless innings with two strikeouts, signaling a potential return to form as he works to secure a roster spot.

Jonathan Pintaro Tosses 2 1/3 Scoreless Innings in Mets Victory

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jonathan Pintaro delivered a strong relief performance in the Mets' 10-4 exhibition win over the Yankees, tossing 2 1/3 scoreless innings. Despite allowing three hits and two walks, the right-hander effectively navigated traffic by recording three strikeouts. This outing follows his major league debut on June 25, 2025, against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field. Pintaro continues to demonstrate his ability to work out of trouble as he competes during the Mets' spring training schedule.

Texas Rangers Claim Speedster Dairon Blanco Off Waivers

AutoDraft Pro AI

The Texas Rangers have claimed outfielder Dairon Blanco off waivers from the Kansas City Royals. The 32-year-old, known for his elite speed, has stolen 59 bases in his career and holds a .257/.312/.416 slash line. Blanco, who was designated for assignment by Kansas City to accommodate Starling Marte, brings versatility with two minor league options remaining. Despite limited MLB action last season, he notably tied a club record with 7 RBI and two home runs against the Reds on August 17, 2024.

Ronan Kopp Optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City

AutoDraft Pro AI

Pitcher Ronan Kopp was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday as the Los Angeles Dodgers executed their second round of spring training roster cuts. Kopp, who had been added to the 40-man roster this past November, is one of 12 players sent to the minor league camp. The move comes as the Dodgers refine their roster, leaving 51 players remaining in major league camp, including 26 pitchers and 25 position players.