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MLB News

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

Wednesday, March 4

Ben Rice Powers Yankees Offense with Strong Spring Showing

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Ben Rice is enjoying a productive spring, highlighted by a 412-foot solo home run and an RBI double in a win over the Red Sox. Currently maintaining a 1.138 OPS, Rice has demonstrated both power and defensive versatility, including a notable diving stop at first base. Through his early camp performance, he has consistently flashed his offensive potential, hitting hard-hit balls and showing significant growth as a young hitter within the Yankees' organization.

Nolan McLean Cleared for WBC After Recovering from Viral Infection

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Mets pitcher Nolan McLean has fully recovered from a viral infection that caused vertigo-like symptoms, passing his "ultimate test" by throwing 55 pitches in a minor league outing. With no lingering symptoms, he is set to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic. McLean is scheduled to start against Italy on March 10 and is currently slated to start the tournament finale on March 17 if the U.S. advances. He looks forward to learning from veteran pitchers on the Team USA roster.

Kiner-Falefa Clarifies ALDS Comments Regarding Yankees Matchup

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Red Sox utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa addressed his previous comments suggesting the Blue Jays preferred facing the Yankees in the ALDS, clarifying that he intended no disrespect toward his former club. Kiner-Falefa, who signed a one-year, $6 million deal with Boston, explained his remarks were based on a strategic matchup preference to avoid facing pitcher Garrett Crochet. He emphasized his respect for the Yankees organization while focusing on his new role with the Red Sox.

Clayton Kershaw Makes Emotional Team USA Debut in Spring Exhibition

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The 37-year-old future Hall of Famer made an emotional appearance for Team USA, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd at Salt River Fields. In his first outing since the World Series, Kershaw struggled with control, allowing a home run and recording 6 strikes on 13 pitches. Despite the performance, manager Mark DeRosa confirmed Kershaw will pitch during the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Kershaw stated that joining the team was a bucket-list item worth the effort.

Pirates Acquire Tyler Callihan from Reds in Trade for Kyle Nicolas

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The Pittsburgh Pirates acquired infielder/outfielder Tyler Callihan from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for right-handed pitcher Kyle Nicolas. Callihan, 25, a former 3rd-round pick, batted .303 at Triple-A Louisville in 2025. He made his MLB debut on April 30, 2025, but his season ended prematurely due to a left forearm fracture sustained on May 5. The versatile left-handed hitter is expected to compete for a roster spot with the Pirates this spring.

Free Agent Wilmer Flores Awaiting Big League Opportunity

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The 34-year-old infielder remains a free agent and is actively seeking a major league deal rather than settling for minor league offers. Flores, who hit 16 home runs and drove in 71 runs in 2025, reports that he is healthy and training in Florida while waiting for a club in need of a right-handed bat. Despite his versatility, his recent role has been limited to a platoon bat and designated hitter, impacting his market appeal as he looks to extend his 13-year career.

Profar Faces Season Suspension After Second PED Test; Braves Disappointed

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Jurickson Profar of the Atlanta Braves is facing a potential full-season suspension for 2026 after reportedly failing his second drug test for performance-enhancing drugs. The MLBPA plans to challenge MLB's decision. This follows a prior PED-related sanction within the last year. Manager Walt Weiss expressed disappointment but confidence that 'someone's gonna step up.' Profar's 2024 season was also marred by an 80-game suspension for PEDs.

Rushing Continues to Hit the Ball Hard for Dodgers

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Dalton Rushing continues to hit the ball hard this spring for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He hit a triple off the center field wall and an RBI double against Mexico. His batted balls this spring have an average exit velocity of 100.3 mph, including six over 100 mph. He has two home runs this spring.

Sheehan Struggles in First Spring Appearance for Dodgers

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Emmet Sheehan pitched in his first game this spring against Team Mexico, giving up three singles and two walks over 1-1/3 innings. He didn't record any strikeouts and allowed one run, leaving with the bases loaded. While there is still time in camp to build up his innings, Sheehan did not help his case with this outing.

Pages Homers, Doubles in Dodgers' Exhibition Win Over Mexico

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Andy Pages hit a home run and a double in his first two at-bats as the designated hitter in the Dodgers' 7-5 exhibition win over Mexico. Pages has five extra-base hits in 23 plate appearances this spring. His performance, along with Dalton Rushing's, is being viewed with an eye toward the regular season.

Freeland Seizes Opportunity at Second Base for Dodgers

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Alex Freeland is looking to capitalize on increased playing time at second base for the Dodgers, with Tommy Edman expected to start the season on the IL and Hyeseong Kim playing in the WBC. Freeland, who played 29 games with the Dodgers last season, feels he's in a good place and has impressed manager Dave Roberts with his maturity and confidence.

Kim Departs for WBC, Creating Second Base Opportunity for Freeland

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Hyeseong Kim, a second-year utility man for the Dodgers, has departed for the World Baseball Classic to compete for Team South Korea. His absence opens up more playing time at second base and shortstop for Alex Freeland during the Cactus League season.

Edman Expected to Start Season on IL, Opening Door for Freeland

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Veteran Tommy Edman is expected to start the season on the injured list as he recovers from right ankle surgery. This situation is opening up an opportunity for Alex Freeland to get increased playing time at second base for the Dodgers.

Ballesteros Excels with ABS Challenges, Drives in Run

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Cubs catcher Moisés Ballesteros made four successful ABS challenges in a game against the Brewers, demonstrating strong strike zone judgment. He also drove in a run with a sacrifice fly. Ballesteros is receiving more catching time with Miguel Amaya away at the World Baseball Classic.

Skenes Shines for USA, Eyes Postseason with Revitalized Pirates

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Paul Skenes is highlighted as a notable pitcher in the 2026 run prevention draft. He's entering his third season with the Pirates, who had an exciting offseason adding Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, and Marcell Ozuna. Skenes is also pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, starting against Italy and potentially pitching in the championship game. He noted a 'different vibe' in Pirates camp and is excited about the team's postseason chances.

Devers' Hamstring Improving, Eyes Weekend Return to Cactus League

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Rafael Devers reported that his injured hamstring is "feeling good" and he could return to Cactus League action this weekend. Devers was scratched from a lineup last Friday and shut down from baseball activities, but the rest appears to have helped. He should be ready for Opening Day if he avoids setbacks.

Greene's Elbow Stiffness: MRI Results Pending, Opening Day Status Uncertain

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Cincinnati Reds ace Hunter Greene is undergoing an MRI for right elbow stiffness, an issue that resurfaced before spring training despite an offseason injection. Greene noted bone spurs but confirmed his UCL is intact. He is shut down from throwing through at least Tuesday, with more information expected by March 10. His availability for Opening Day 2026 is now in doubt, though the Reds plan to be patient. The issue dates back to his final 5-6 starts last season, where he pushed through discomfort during the playoff push.

Lindor Begins Hitting Progression After Hamate Surgery

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Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that shortstop Francisco Lindor has started his hitting progression following surgery on his left hamate bone on February 11. Lindor also played catch and participated in defensive drills, indicating he is on track to be ready for Opening Day on April 26.

Aaron Judge Blasts Solo Home Run for Team USA

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New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge showcased his formidable power by hitting a solo home run while representing Team USA. This early display of his offensive capabilities comes as teams prepare for the upcoming baseball season, highlighting his readiness and impact. Judge's ability to drive the ball deep remains a key asset, and his performance for the national team provides an encouraging sign of his form. The solo shot contributed significantly to the game's action, underscoring his consistent threat at the plate.

Bryce Miller Cleared to Resume Throwing Program After Side Injury

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Seattle Mariners pitcher Bryce Miller (side) is slated to play catch Wednesday, marking his return to a throwing program. He was briefly shut down over the weekend following a platelet-rich plasma injection to alleviate inflammation in his left side. Miller anticipates throwing a light bullpen session by the weekend if he responds well to Wednesday's workout. While he is still at least a week or more away from pitching in a Cactus League game, he is expected to avoid a stint on the injured list to begin the season, provided he experiences no further setbacks during his recovery.