Brewers center fielder Blake Perkins will be sidelined for 3-4 weeks after fracturing his shin during batting practice. The unfortunate injury is a significant blow for Perkins, who was poised to build on his solid performance last season. According to manager Pat Murphy, Perkins' injury will force the team to adjust their outfield lineup.
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Last season, Perkins hit .240/.316/.332 (81 OPS+), showcasing his defensive prowess and baserunning skills with 23 stolen bases and 1.8 WAR. In his absence, the Brewers will rely on a combination of Jackson Chourio, Garrett Mitchell, Sal Frelick, Caleb Durbin, and Brewers Hicklen to cover the outfield. Manuel Margot may also see increased playing time, while Christian Yelich, who has a history of injuries, is expected to primarily serve as the designated hitter to minimize the risk of further injury.

The Houston Astros have reportedly renewed their interest in acquiring St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado. Previously, Arenado had vetoed a trade to the Astros due to his full no-trade clause, but recent developments suggest he might be willing to reconsider. The Astros' recent moves, including signing first baseman Christian Walker, indicate their commitment to contending, which could make the prospect of joining Houston more appealing to Arenado.
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Arenado's potential move to the Astros comes after the team lost third baseman Alex Bregman to free agency. With the Cardinals and Astros re-engaging in trade talks, Arenado's willingness to waive his no-trade clause could pave the way for a significant roster shakeup. The Cardinals are in a position to get a decent return for Arenado, whose elite defense and power-hitting capabilities make him a valuable asset. As the hot stove cools off, all eyes are on whether Arenado will don an Astros uniform for the 2025 season.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have made significant roster moves following the signing of free agent left-handed pitcher Andrew Heaney. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Pirates designated right-handed pitcher Brett De Geus for assignment. De Geus, who has been designated for assignment multiple times in his career, struggled in 2024 with a 7.15 ERA over 11.1 innings pitched across three teams. Despite his challenges, De Geus has shown potential with a sinking fastball averaging 96.4 mph, making him a candidate for another team to claim him off waivers.
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In addition to De Geus, the Pirates also released right-handed pitcher Yerry Rodriguez. Rodriguez, who signed a minor league contract with the Pirates in November, had an 8.17 ERA over 36.1 innings in the majors since 2022. Control issues have plagued Rodriguez throughout his career, limiting his effectiveness at the MLB level. With these moves, the Pirates aim to optimize their roster and provide opportunities for other players to step up during Spring Training.

Philadelphia Phillies utility man Weston Wilson is expected to miss at least six weeks after suffering an oblique strain during batting practice. This injury comes at a crucial time, as Wilson was competing for a spot on the Phillies' Opening Day roster. Manager Rob Thomson confirmed the news, noting that Wilson had been a strong contender for the final bench spot due to his versatility and solid performance in previous seasons.
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With Wilson sidelined, the Phillies will need to explore other options to fill the void. Players like Rafael Marchán, Edmundo Sosa, and Johan Rojas are already penciled in for bench roles, but the competition for the remaining spot is now wide open. Infielder Buddy Kennedy, who has shown promise in Triple-A, is now a leading candidate to make the Opening Day roster. The team will closely monitor Wilson's recovery, hoping to have him back in action as soon as possible.

Graham Ashcraft enters this year's Spring Training with a different set of expectations. In the past two seasons, he was a lock for the rotation as part of the Reds' young "Big Three" starting pitcher trio alongside Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo. However, following a series of injuries and inconsistent performances, Ashcraft now finds himself needing to earn his place in the rotation and on the roster.
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Determined to prove his worth, Ashcraft is approaching camp with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. "I’m coming into camp healthy and strong, and I’m just going to compete, and wherever it ends up, it ends up," Ashcraft said. Acknowledging the possibility of transitioning to a relief role if necessary, he emphasized that his primary focus is on what’s best for the team. "It’s not really about what I want. It’s about what’s best for the team. If they view me going into the bullpen as something better than me starting, then I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do."

Jeff Levering and Lane Grindle will once again settle into the home radio booth at American Family Fields of Phoenix to call Saturday's Cactus League opener between the Brewers and the Reds. Over the past decade, they have called more than 800 games without Bob Uecker, who often missed games due to exhaustion from cancer treatments. However, this game is different as it marks the first time the Brewers will take the field since Uecker's passing in January from small cell lung cancer.
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Grindle reflected on Uecker's absence, noting how challenging it is to accept that they will no longer share the booth with him. He mentioned that Uecker had been on his mind daily, especially since the previous Spring Training when Uecker pushed himself to be part of Brewers baseball despite his health struggles. Moving forward, Grindle and Levering plan to honor Uecker's memory by taking it one day and one inning at a time, sharing stories, and cherishing the moments they had with him. They acknowledge that there is no set template for moving on without Uecker, but they aim to approach each day as he would have.

Reigning World Series MVP Freddie Freeman took to the field for the first time this spring to test his surgically repaired right ankle, and the reports were overwhelmingly positive. Freeman ran drills and came into Friday morning feeling good, according to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. Roberts expressed optimism about Freeman's recovery, indicating that there's a strong possibility he'll be back in action next week. Freeman has set his sights on being ready for Opening Day in the Tokyo Series on March 18, and his progress is trending in the right direction.
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Manager Dave Roberts remains confident in Freeman's readiness for Opening Day, noting that his recovery has been progressing as expected. "I think that is still going to happen," Roberts stated, affirming Freeman's goal of playing in the Tokyo Series. As Freeman continues to make strides in his rehabilitation, the Dodgers are hopeful that their star player will be back on the field, contributing to the team's success from the start of the season.

Logan Webb was in the training room at Scottsdale Stadium, prepping for his bullpen session, when he caught a glimpse of breaking news on MLB Network: Manager Bob Melvin had officially named him the Giants' Opening Day starter. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Webb has been granted this prestigious honor, a testament to his consistent performance and leadership on the mound. Although the news was unexpected to Webb at that moment, the decision itself was far from surprising given his track record.
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Manager Bob Melvin didn't feel the need to inform Webb before making the announcement, as the choice was evident. "He's our guy," Melvin stated. "He came up in the system. There's a lot to love about Logan. It's not even going to be a conversation." Melvin's confidence in Webb underscores the pitcher's significance to the team and his role as a cornerstone of the Giants' pitching staff.

Gavin Lux arrived at Reds camp ready to showcase his versatility, bringing along multiple gloves to prepare for various positions. Embracing his role as a utility player, Lux demonstrated his commitment to contributing wherever needed on the field. His proactive approach highlights his willingness to adapt and take on new challenges, making him a valuable asset for the team.
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"I’ve got three gloves—one for third base, one for second base, and one for the outfield," Lux shared. This preparedness underscores his dedication to being ready for any situation and showcases his flexibility in handling different roles. As the Reds evaluate their roster for the upcoming season, Lux's adaptability and readiness to play multiple positions will undoubtedly be a significant advantage.

The Los Angeles Angels have announced that prospect Christian Moore will be getting reps at third base during spring training. Moore, who was primarily a second baseman, is being given the opportunity to showcase his versatility and potentially secure a spot on the major league roster. Manager Ron Washington emphasized the importance of diversifying Moore's defensive skills, noting that the young player has shown promise at third base during instructional league play. With Anthony Rendon sidelined due to hip surgery and Yoán Moncada's injury history, Moore's ability to play third base could be a valuable asset for the Angels.
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Moore's transition to third base comes after an impressive minor league performance, where he hit .347/.400/.584 in 25 games following his draft. The Angels are known for their aggressive promotion of top prospects, and Moore's strong showing in camp could accelerate his path to the majors. As the team navigates roster uncertainties, Moore's development at third base will be closely watched, and his success could provide the Angels with much-needed depth and flexibility in their infield.

The Chicago Cubs have added veteran outfielder Travis Jankowski to their organization, securing him on a minor league deal. This move presents Jankowski with an opportunity to compete for a spot on the Cubs' major league roster during spring training. Jankowski brings a wealth of experience to the organization, having played for several MLB teams throughout his career. Known for his speed, defensive versatility, and hustle, he offers the Cubs a potential depth option in the outfield. The minor league contract provides both the Cubs with a low-risk addition and Jankowski with a chance to prove his value and potentially earn a call-up to the big leagues.
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Jankowski's signing reflects the Cubs' strategy of bolstering their roster with experienced players who can provide valuable depth and flexibility. His ability to play multiple outfield positions and his speed on the basepaths make him a potentially useful asset for the team. The minor league deal allows the Cubs to assess Jankowski's performance during spring training without committing to a guaranteed roster spot. For Jankowski, this represents a chance to revive his career and contribute to a contending team, making it a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Justin Ishbia, a prominent figure in the sports investment world, has decided to withdraw from his pursuit of acquiring the Minnesota Twins. This decision marks a significant shift in his focus, as he now intends to increase his minority stake in the Chicago White Sox. Ishbia's initial interest in the Twins sparked considerable speculation about potential changes in ownership and the team's future direction. However, his strategic realignment towards the White Sox suggests a deeper commitment to the Chicago franchise and a long-term vision for its development. This move underscores the dynamic nature of sports ownership and the complex factors that influence investment decisions.
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Ishbia's increased investment in the White Sox signals a strong belief in the team's potential and a desire to play a more influential role in its operations. While the specific details of his enhanced stake remain undisclosed, it's clear that he aims to be a significant contributor to the White Sox's future success. This development will likely generate considerable interest among White Sox fans and observers, as they anticipate how Ishbia's involvement will shape the team's strategies and overall performance. The abandonment of the Twins pursuit and the intensified focus on the White Sox highlights Ishbia's calculated approach to sports investment and his dedication to maximizing his impact within the realm of professional baseball.

Anthony Rizzo, a veteran presence in the MLB, is determined to extend his career despite recent setbacks. The first baseman candidly addressed his challenges, acknowledging a concussion-riddled 2022 followed by two separate injuries in 2023. These physical hurdles undeniably impacted his performance, leading to a noticeable decline in his power numbers. Rizzo, while not completely shocked by the dip, attributes it to the natural progression of aging in the sport. However, he remains resolute in his belief that he has more to offer, fueled by a desire to prove his value and contribute to a winning team.
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Rizzo's frustration stems from the offers he's received, with teams seemingly valuing him at a near-league minimum salary. He sees this as a blatant undervaluation of his experience and contributions, and he fears it sets a dangerous precedent for future players. "I’m like, you guys are crazy," Rizzo stated, expressing his disbelief. "You’re almost trying to ruin the market for the next guy." This sentiment underscores Rizzo's commitment to upholding the financial integrity of the game for both himself and the next generation of players. He's not just fighting for his own paycheck; he's advocating for the fair compensation of seasoned athletes who have proven their worth.

Andrew Vasquez, a left-handed relief pitcher with MLB experience, has signed with the Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos of the Mexican League. This move signifies a new chapter in Vasquez's career, as he seeks to revitalize his performance and potentially earn another opportunity in affiliated baseball. Vasquez has previously pitched for several MLB organizations, including the Minnesota Twins, Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, and Philadelphia Phillies, demonstrating his versatility and ability to adapt to different team environments. His decision to join the Tecolotes suggests a desire for consistent playing time and a chance to showcase his skills in a competitive international league.
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The Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos, known for their unique cross-border identity, play their home games in both Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. This distinctive setup provides Vasquez with an opportunity to experience a unique cultural and baseball environment. The Mexican League is known for its high level of play and passionate fan base, offering Vasquez a platform to refine his repertoire and potentially attract the attention of MLB scouts. This move highlights the growing trend of players seeking opportunities in international leagues to extend their careers and explore new baseball landscapes.

Dodgers pitcher Bobby Miller is feeling much better after being struck in the head by a line drive during the first game of spring training. Manager Dave Roberts spoke with Miller, who reported only a lingering headache and a good night's sleep. Miller remains in concussion protocol after the 105.5 mph liner off the bat of Cubs first baseman Michael Busch hit him on the head Thursday. Roberts relayed that Miller was in good spirits, even joking about his "hard head.

​While Miller's positive attitude is encouraging, the Dodgers are taking his injury seriously. Remaining in concussion protocol means Miller will continue to be monitored closely for any delayed symptoms. The team will prioritize his health and well-being before he returns to the mound. Roberts' update suggests a positive initial assessment, but the team will undoubtedly proceed cautiously with their young pitcher's recovery.

Reds manager Terry Francona has a clear message for his veteran players regarding the use of ABS challenges during spring training: save them for the younger guys. Francona explained his reasoning, stating, "I'm OK with seeing our younger kids do it because they've done it. It's not a strategy for [the MLB teams], so why work on it? I don't want to make a farce of anything, but we're here getting ready for a season and that's not helping us get ready." He emphasized that the focus should be on preparing for the regular season, not experimenting with a challenge system that won't be a factor in actual games.
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Francona's approach highlights the different priorities between veteran and younger players in spring training. While younger players might benefit from experience with the ABS challenge system, veterans are better served focusing on refining their core skills and building chemistry with their teammates. The Reds manager clearly wants to avoid any distractions that could detract from the team's overall preparation, prioritizing the long-term goal of a successful season over short-term experimentation with a rule that won't be in play when it counts.

New York Yankees pitching prospect Chase Hampton has undergone Tommy John surgery after experiencing elbow discomfort during a bullpen session. The 23-year-old right-hander, who was diagnosed with a flexor strain and UCL injury, had been dealing with elbow issues for the past two seasons. This surgery will sideline him for the entire 2025 season, with hopes of returning to the mound in 2026. Hampton's injury is a significant setback for the Yankees, as he was considered one of their top pitching prospects with a promising future.
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Hampton's journey to recovery will be closely monitored by the Yankees' medical staff, and the team will need to adjust their pitching strategy in his absence. Despite the setback, Hampton's talent and potential remain highly regarded, and the organization is optimistic about his return. The Yankees will continue to support him through his rehabilitation process, aiming to see him back in action and contributing to the team's success in the future.