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MLB News

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

Tuesday, March 3

Dodgers' World Series Hero Will Klein Faces Roster Battle Despite Past Brilliance

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Will Klein, who famously saved the Dodgers' 2025 World Series season with four shutout innings in Game 3, is now battling for a roster spot this spring. Despite his heroic performance, which included holding the Blue Jays at bay until a walk-off, the reliever faces stiff competition due to the team's depth. Klein, who the Dodgers helped refine his pitching, prefers daily bullpen work over starting. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledges his "highest of leverage" success, but Klein's future with the club remains uncertain.

Kris Bubic Returns from Injury, Makes Spring Debut for Royals

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Left-hander Kris Bubic made his anticipated Spring Training debut for the Kansas City Royals after being sidelined by injury in 2025. Facing the Milwaukee Brewers, Bubic pitched two innings, allowing four hits and one run while impressively recording three strikeouts. He threw 31 pitches, averaging 91.9 mph with his fastball, and showcased his full arsenal including his changeup, slider, sinker, and sweeper. This outing marks a significant step in his return to the mound for the 2026 campaign.

Springer's 2025 Resurgence Sets High Bar for 2026 Projections

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George Springer, 36, saw a significant offensive resurgence in 2025, hitting .309/.399/.560 with 32 HR, 18 SB, and a 5.2 fWAR, his best with the Blue Jays. His outfield defense declined, leading to more DH time. Despite elite percentile rankings in 2025, Steamer projects a more modest 2026 with 134 games, .259/.340/.454, 26 HR, and 2.4 fWAR, raising questions about repeating his career-best performance.

Misiorowski Prepares for Second Season Amidst High Expectations, Workload Questions

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Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski is set for his second season, making his spring debut Tuesday as a highlight of the rotation. Following a hyped 2025 debut (All-Star after 5 starts) and a strong postseason rebound from a left tibia contusion, his workload increased 45% to 141.3 IP. ZiPS projects 116.2 IP for 2026 (3.86 ERA, 10.93 K/9), with other projections up to 139 IP, suggesting potential innings management or bullpen use. Questions remain about sustaining his performance and managing the increased workload.

Andrew Painter Impresses with Two Scoreless Innings in Spring Outing

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Philadelphia Phillies prospect Andrew Painter generated significant buzz, dubbed 'Painter Mania,' after delivering two scoreless innings in a recent Sunday outing. Painter himself commented on his command and focus, indicating a strong start to his season preparations and building anticipation for his performance in 2026.

Monday, March 2

Harrison Bader Embraces Present Moment in New Giants Chapter

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Entering his 10th MLB season with the San Francisco Giants, outfielder Harrison Bader emphasizes the importance of staying present and cherishing each moment of his career. He credits this mindset for his consistency and success in reaching and remaining in the major leagues. Bader advises young players to learn from past experiences while focusing on the current moment, believing that dedication and presence are key to reaching one's potential. He finds reassurance in remembering the challenges of his journey and the effort required to maintain success at the highest level, aiming to contribute to team wins and potentially a championship with the Giants.

Royce Lewis Expected to Return This Week

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Royce Lewis participated in live batting practice Sunday and could rejoin the Minnesota Twins' Grapefruit League lineup as early as Tuesday. Lewis was scratched from the lineup last Thursday due to right side tightness, but an MRI came back negative, and he resumed baseball activities over the weekend. The side injury appears to be a minor concern, but any spring health problems are worth keeping an eye on given Lewis' injury history.

Shohei Ohtani's WBC is a Victory Lap

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Shohei Ohtani will DH only in the World Baseball Classic due to workload concerns from 2025 and insurance doubts. Despite this, his return to Japan has been met with immense fan adoration. Ohtani's career has been marked by unprecedented success, including multiple MVPs and a World Series title, solidifying his legacy as a generational superstar. This WBC serves as a celebration of his achievements.

Royals Sign Veteran Starling Marte to 1-Year Deal

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The Kansas City Royals have signed two-time All-Star Starling Marte to a $1 million contract for the upcoming season. The deal provides the Royals with an experienced player as they continue to build their roster.

Kershaw Returns for WBC 'Bucket List' Dream, Faces Pat McAfee

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Retired Dodgers legend Clayton Kershaw is fulfilling a 'bucket list' dream by joining Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, despite having retired after winning back-to-back World Series titles in 2025. He threw a bullpen session on Monday and expressed readiness to contribute in any capacity. Kershaw also engaged in a charity face-off with ESPN's Pat McAfee, discussing his retirement and WBC return. He described the WBC as 'October with a national anthem,' emphasizing his desire to play for Team USA.

Randal Grichuk Joins Yankees on Minor League Deal, Aims for World Series Title

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Randal Grichuk has signed a minor league deal with the Yankees, expressing his desire to win a World Series title late in his career. He noted the Yankees were aggressive suitors and he's glad how things played out, despite a delayed free agency. Grichuk believes his underlying metrics (barrels, exit velo, swing/miss) suggest a bounce-back year, despite a poor offensive showing last season. He's behind in camp but is a strong candidate for the fourth outfielder spot, especially given his career .268 average and .819 OPS against left-handed pitching, a role he's adjusted to.

Nolan McLean Penciled in for Team USA's WBC Finale

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Mets pitcher Nolan McLean is slated to start Team USA's World Baseball Classic pool play finale against Italy. However, his availability is uncertain as he is currently battling an illness. Manager Mark DeRosa will reassess McLean's status daily. If the USA advances, McLean is expected to make a second appearance.

Matt McLain Showing Signs of Renaissance

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Matt McLain is demonstrating a strong return this spring, hitting two home runs in a recent game against the Cubs. After a difficult 2025 season marred by injury, McLain has focused on improving his approach and positioning at the plate. His resurgence is crucial for the Reds' lineup, potentially allowing them to better utilize other players.

Aaron Judge Feels Pride Representing Team USA

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Aaron Judge expressed deep pride and a 'really hit home' moment upon putting on the Team USA jersey for the World Baseball Classic. As captain, he delivered a speech emphasizing sacrifice and unity to his teammates. This marks his first time representing his country in an international tournament, a significant honor for the Yankees slugger.

Landen Roupp Shines in Spring Start

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Landen Roupp delivered a strong performance against the Chicago White Sox, pitching two perfect innings with 25 pitches. He induced two ground balls and a soft liner, showing complete control. His outing suggests his spot in the rotation is secure.

Carson Whisenhunt Struggles in Spring Outing

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Carson Whisenhunt had a difficult outing against the Chicago White Sox, allowing four runs on four hits, including a double and a single. Despite showing improved velocity early on, his effectiveness waned, and his signature changeup was not a weapon. He struggled with control, throwing only 28 of 46 pitches for strikes.

Giants' Logan Webb Tapped to Start WBC Game 1 for Team USA

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San Francisco Giants ace Logan Webb has been named the starting pitcher for Team USA's Game 1 of the World Baseball Classic. Manager Mark DeRosa announced Monday that Webb will take the mound when Team USA faces Brazil in pool play on Friday. This marks a significant role for the Giants' right-hander in the international tournament, highlighting his status as a key player for the national squad as they begin their campaign.

Jacob deGrom Set for Rangers Spring Debut Wednesday Against Brazil

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Texas Rangers' ace Jacob deGrom is slated to make his first spring start Wednesday in an exhibition game against Team Brazil. The veteran right-hander has been gradually built up through bullpen sessions and live batting practices. Manager Skip Schumaker anticipates deGrom will make three or four appearances before camp concludes. In 2025, deGrom posted a 12-8 record with a 2.97 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, and 185:37 K:BB over 172.2 innings, his highest total since 2019, demonstrating his durability and effectiveness.

Josiah Gray Returns After 2 Years, Battles for Nats Rotation Spot

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Josiah Gray made his first spring start in nearly two years, pitching 1 2/3 innings, allowing one run on two hits, and striking out three against the Astros. Despite hitting two batters and throwing 39 pitches, his velocity reached 94 mph, a positive sign post-Tommy John surgery. Manager Blake Butera noted Gray's improved velocity and competitive drive as he aims for a spot in the Nationals' season-opening rotation. Gray expressed confidence in his ability to succeed, focusing on health and building momentum from his outing.

Yankees' Jazz Chisholm Aces 328-Yard Par 4 During Spring Training Day Off

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New York Yankees player Jazz Chisholm achieved a hole-in-one on a 328-yard par 4 during a day off from spring training in Florida. The impressive feat occurred while Chisholm was playing with a range ball. This unique off-field accomplishment adds a memorable moment to his spring activities, showcasing his diverse talents even away from the baseball diamond. The event provided a lighthearted highlight amidst the rigorous training schedule.