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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Ronald Acuña Jr. led Venezuela to a 6-2 win over the Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic. He smacked a first-pitch double, scored twice, and drew a walk while providing stellar defense with a crucial running catch and throw in the sixth inning. Acuña shared the field with Braves teammate Ozzie Albies during the contest. He continues to be a top-tier fantasy asset as he maintains his high-level performance on the international stage.
Representing Team Netherlands in the World Baseball Classic, Ozzie Albies went 0-for-4 in a 6-2 loss to Venezuela. The game featured a high-profile matchup against Braves teammate Ronald Acuña Jr., including a notable pre-game interaction at second base. Albies, currently participating in the WBC, remains a key focus for the Braves as they monitor their stars' spring progress while the team continues its own training schedule in his absence.
Outman has been one of the Twins' top hitters this spring, creating a difficult roster decision for the front office. Because he is out of minor league options, he would likely be claimed on waivers if sent down. The team faces a surplus of outfielders, and while his defense and base running make him a valuable asset, the club may need to trade an outfielder to balance the roster. He remains in the mix for an Opening Day spot as the team evaluates its final lineup decisions.
Edwards is leading off and playing second base for Friday's Grapefruit League game against the Mets. This return is a positive development after he departed Thursday's contest with left calf tightness. The infielder will not miss any time due to the issue and is resuming his regular starting spot. He has performed well this spring, hitting 3-for-11 with three stolen bases over his first five appearances.
Paul Skenes has been named to the Team USA roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He is set to join fellow stars like Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper as the United States competes for the 2026 WBC championship.
The Orioles signed Ryan Helsley to a two-year deal to anchor their bullpen. Manager Craig Albernaz confirmed that Helsley will be used strictly in ninth-inning save situations, viewing the 31-year-old as a 'one-inning guy.' While projection systems forecast a solid season, the team is banking on his 99 mph fastball for stability. Helsley holds a contract opt-out clause, and his role as a dedicated closer is expected to benefit his overall fantasy outlook this season.
Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña will miss the remainder of the World Baseball Classic after sustaining a finger fracture. Peña expressed uncertainty regarding his recovery timeline but stated his goal is to be ready for Opening Day. He is scheduled for re-evaluation in two weeks to determine his status. In his absence, the Astros are monitoring his progress and considering contingency plans, including the potential for Carlos Correa to shift to shortstop if necessary.
Julio Rodríguez enters the World Baseball Classic with the Dominican Republic, aiming to build on a career-best 2025 season. After a breakout second half last year, Rodríguez is focused on leadership and team success. He recently invested $1.3 million to renovate his hometown baseball field in the Dominican Republic, a project supported by several national team teammates. Rodríguez is eager to translate his recent growth and playoff experience into a deep tournament run.
Jake Lamb is set to co-host a dbacks.com livestream for the Arizona Diamondbacks' spring training game against the Chicago White Sox. Lamb will provide commentary alongside Chris Garagiola during the broadcast. The Diamondbacks are playing a split-squad schedule today, with attention focused on the White Sox matchup while results from the concurrent game against the Brewers are expected to be transmitted via limited updates.
Corbin Carroll reached a significant milestone in his recovery Friday by taking live at-bats for the first time since undergoing surgery on February 12 to repair a fractured hamate bone in his right hand. While the Diamondbacks outfielder is still unlikely to participate in spring training games, his progress in the hitting program suggests he has a strong chance to be ready for the team's regular-season opener.
The Cincinnati Reds are sending left-hander Andrew Abbott to the mound for a tune-up start today against the San Francisco Giants in Scottsdale, Arizona. The game will not be televised, though fans can listen to the broadcast via 700 WLW and the Reds Radio Network. First pitch is scheduled for 3:05 PM ET as Abbott continues his preparations for the upcoming season.
Merrill Kelly is progressing well in his recovery from back issues. After successfully throwing a 30-pitch bullpen session on Thursday where he utilized his full arsenal, the 37-year-old is now slated to face live batters on Sunday. Manager Torey Lovullo noted that Kelly reported feeling fine following his Thursday session. His continued advancement through his throwing program is a positive indicator for his potential availability for the Diamondbacks' Opening Day roster.
Right-hander Chad Patrick is scheduled to start for the Milwaukee Brewers in today's Cactus League matchup against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Manager Pat Murphy has confirmed that Patrick will be part of the starting rotation to open the season. Patrick is coming off a strong 2025 campaign where he posted a 3.53 ERA in the regular season and a 2.00 ERA across six postseason appearances.
Rockies pitcher Chase Dollander is looking to dial in his command during today's start against the Athletics. While he holds a 2.25 ERA over four innings this spring, he has struggled to put hitters away once reaching two-strike counts. The team is focused on his ability to generate strikeouts and improve efficiency in deep counts as he continues to battle for a spot on the major league roster.
Right-hander J.T. Ginn takes the ball for the Athletics today against the Colorado Rockies. Ginn has been impressive early in camp, allowing just one hit over five innings across two starts with five strikeouts and two walks. The 26-year-old, who posted a 5.08 ERA over 90.1 innings for the A's last season, is looking to refine his command as he competes for a role in the pitching staff.
Veteran right-hander Colin Rea enters the 2026 season as a key depth piece for the Chicago Cubs. Expected to serve as a sixth or seventh man, Rea provides insurance for the Opening Day rotation, with an anticipated workload of 80 to 85 innings. The 35-year-old, who posted an 11-7 record with the Cubs in 2025, utilizes a diverse pitch mix including a 94-95 mph four-seam fastball, splitfinger, and various breaking balls to keep hitters off balance.
Carlos Correa was scratched from Friday's Grapefruit League lineup against the Nationals due to stiffness on the right side of his neck and is currently day-to-day. Manager Joe Espada confirmed that if Jeremy Pena is unavailable for Opening Day due to his finger injury, Correa will slide from third base to his familiar shortstop position, with Isaac Paredes taking over at third. Despite the minor neck issue, Correa remains a vital, versatile piece of the Astros' infield plans.
With Jeremy Pena dealing with a fractured right ring finger that requires reevaluation in two weeks, Isaac Paredes is in line to start at third base if the Astros' infield alignment shifts. Manager Joe Espada noted that if Pena is not ready for Opening Day, Carlos Correa will move to shortstop, opening a path for Paredes to secure everyday playing time. While Paredes lacks a clear starting role in a healthy infield, this injury situation provides a significant opportunity.
As the Phillies look to optimize their lineup, discussions continue regarding the leadoff spot and protection for Bryce Harper. While rookie Justin Crawford has impressed, there is caution about rushing him to the top of the order, citing the struggles of Bryson Stott, who saw his production crater after being moved to the leadoff spot in 2025. The team is balancing the need for lineup efficiency against the risk of putting excessive pressure on young players early in their development.
Alan Roden has been one of the Twins' most impressive performers this spring, making it difficult for the team to keep him off the Opening Day roster despite having minor league options remaining. His standout play has increased the likelihood of the Twins seeking a trade for Trevor Larnach to clear space. Roden's ability to play center field and his consistent production have positioned him as a near-lock for the final roster as the team finalizes its outfield configuration.
