The Texas Rangers are prioritizing Jacob deGrom's health in 2025, aiming for a full season after his injury-plagued tenure thus far. Manager Bruce Bochy has revealed that deGrom will slot into the back end of the rotation, a strategic move to allow the veteran right-hander ample time to build stamina following his Tommy John surgery. While Bochy didn't specify whether deGrom would be the fourth or fifth starter, the emphasis is on a gradual ramp-up. DeGrom, who missed most of the 2024 season, made a brief return in September, showcasing his talent with a 1.69 ERA across three appearances. His Cactus League debut against the Rockies signals the beginning of his preparation for a pivotal 2025 campaign.
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The precise timing of deGrom's regular-season debut is still being determined. The Rangers are considering whether he'll pitch in the final game of their opening series against the Boston Red Sox on March 30th, or if he'll start the subsequent series opener against the Cincinnati Reds on March 31st. This cautious approach underscores the Rangers' commitment to deGrom's long-term health and contribution to the team. The focus is on ensuring he's fully prepared to handle the rigors of a full season, rather than rushing him back into a high-pressure role.

The Washington Nationals, uniquely positioned as the sole MLB team without a stadium naming rights deal or jersey patch sponsorship, are actively pursuing partnerships to change that by the end of 2025. After initiating conversations in January, the team aims to finalize contracts for both opportunities this year, ideally by midseason. Chief Revenue Officer Mike Carney emphasized the strategic timing, noting that summertime, when Nationals' fans are most engaged, presents the perfect opportunity for an announcement. The team envisions immediate implementation of jersey patches, with temporary signage bridging the gap until permanent stadium displays are installed. While past stadium naming rights negotiations fell through due to unsuitable brand alignment, the Nationals are now prioritizing partners who demonstrate "shared values," including community commitment and military support.
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The potential financial windfall, estimated by Forbes at over $20 million, is expected to provide a significant boost to the Nationals' revenue stream. While Carney refrained from detailing specific plans for the funds, he suggested that the additional capital could be used to bolster player salaries, which have consistently ranked in the league's bottom ten for the past few seasons. This strategic move to secure sponsorships reflects the Nationals' desire to enhance their financial flexibility and potentially improve their competitive standing by investing in player talent.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have placed right-handed pitcher Johan Oviedo on the 60-day injured list, a move that significantly delays his return to the mound. This announcement comes as a surprise, given that Oviedo had undergone Tommy John surgery in November 2023 and was expected to be healthy for the 2025 season. However, a recently surfaced "lat issue," revealed by manager Derek Shelton, has complicated his recovery. This unexpected setback necessitates an extended period on the injured list, pushing his potential return to late May at the earliest. The 60-day IL placement also opened a roster spot, allowing the Pirates to officially claim right-hander Justin Lawrence off waivers from the Rockies. 

The extended absence of Oviedo creates a significant hole in the Pirates' pitching staff. While the initial expectation was that he would be a key contributor in 2025, the newly diagnosed lat injury has derailed those plans. This development underscores the unpredictable nature of injury recovery, even for players who have seemingly progressed well through rehabilitation. The Pirates will now have to adjust their pitching strategy and rely on other arms in the rotation until Oviedo is cleared to return. His extended absence poses a challenge for the team, requiring them to adapt and find solutions to maintain their competitiveness. 

The Arizona Diamondbacks showcased a powerful offensive display, securing a commanding 10-2 win against the Chicago Cubs in their spring training encounter. The Diamondbacks' lineup was relentless, consistently generating scoring opportunities and capitalizing on them with timely hits. Several players contributed to the offensive surge, with [Insert Player Name] delivering a standout performance, [Insert Detail of performance, e.g., going 3-for-4 with two doubles and three RBIs]. The Diamondbacks' ability to put runners on base and drive them in proved to be the key factor in their dominant victory.
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On the pitching side, the Diamondbacks' staff effectively neutralized the Cubs' offense, limiting their scoring opportunities and maintaining control throughout the game. While the Cubs managed to score a couple of runs, they were unable to mount a significant comeback against the Diamondbacks' strong pitching performance. This convincing win provides a significant boost to the Diamondbacks' confidence as they fine-tune their strategies and prepare for the regular season.

The Colorado Rockies delivered a strong offensive performance, defeating the Los Angeles Angels 8-4 in their spring training matchup. The Rockies' bats were hot, consistently putting pressure on the Angels' pitching staff. Several key hits throughout the game, including a notable [Insert Example: three-run double by Nolan Jones], propelled the Rockies to a comfortable lead. The Rockies' ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities proved to be a major factor in their win.
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While the Angels managed to score four runs, their efforts were ultimately overshadowed by the Rockies' offensive output. The Rockies' pitching, though not flawless, held the Angels in check, limiting damage and maintaining the lead. This victory provides a positive momentum boost for the Rockies as they continue to refine their strategies and evaluate their roster in preparation for the upcoming regular season.

The Oakland Athletics edged out the Chicago White Sox in a tight spring training battle, securing a 5-4 win. The game saw both teams trading blows, with the Athletics ultimately capitalizing on key opportunities. A balanced offensive effort led the way, with contributions from throughout the lineup. The Athletics' ability to string together hits and take advantage of White Sox miscues proved to be the deciding factor in this closely contested matchup. Strong relief pitching late in the game helped to solidify the Athletics' lead and prevent the White Sox from mounting a comeback.

​While spring training results offer a glimpse into team performance, this victory provides a positive sign for the Athletics. The team's ability to grind out a win against a divisional rival showcases their resilience. The White Sox, despite the loss, displayed flashes of offensive potential. Both teams will look to build upon their performance as they continue their preparations for the regular season, fine-tuning their strategies and evaluating their rosters.

The Seattle Mariners secured a decisive 7-2 victory over the Cleveland Guardians, showcasing a potent offensive display. The Mariners' bats were active throughout the game, registering 11 hits and capitalizing on several defensive errors by the Guardians. Key offensive contributors included [Insert Player Name], who went 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs, and [Insert Player Name], who added a solo home run. The Mariners' ability to put runners on base and drive them in proved to be the difference-maker in this spring training matchup.
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On the pitching side, [Insert Name of Mariners Pitcher] delivered a strong performance, holding the Guardians to just two runs on four hits over [Insert Number] innings. He demonstrated control and effectiveness, striking out [Insert Number] batters. The Guardians' pitching staff, in contrast, struggled to contain the Mariners' offense, allowing consistent contact and failing to limit extra-base hits. While spring training results should be taken with a grain of salt, this win provided a positive boost for the Mariners as they continue their preparations for the regular season.

​The Blue Jays announced that the following players have been reassigned to Minor League camp: catcher Robert Brooks, catcher Andres Sosa, right-handed pitcher Adam Kloffenstein, infielder Charles McAdoo, infielder Rainer Nunez, infielder Eddinson Paulino, and outfielder RJ Schreck. Additionally, left-handed pitcher Adam Macko has been optioned to Triple-A Buffalo.

New York Yankees pitcher Luis Gil, last season's AL Rookie of the Year, will miss the start of the regular season and possibly more due to a high-grade lat strain. Manager Aaron Boone informed reporters on Monday that Gil will be shut down from throwing for at least six weeks after an MRI revealed the injury. There is no precise timeline for his return to throwing or taking the mound. "They're still gathering information," Boone said. "It's at least a six-week no-throw. We know that for sure. But he's still gotta be examined by the doc and then get the other opinions on everything there." Gil's injury was initially revealed on Friday when Boone reported that Gil was experiencing shoulder discomfort.
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The 26-year-old pitcher had an impressive first full season with the Yankees, earning AL Rookie of the Year honors. In 29 starts, he posted a 3.50 ERA and 1.193 WHIP with 171 strikeouts and 77 walks in 151.2 innings pitched. He also pitched in two postseason games, recording a 6.75 ERA in an ALCS start against the Cleveland Guardians and a World Series start against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Yankees are scheduled to open their season on March 27 at home against the Milwaukee Brewers, but they will have to do so without their star pitcher. Gil's absence will leave a significant gap in the Yankees' rotation as they look to start the season strong.

The Milwaukee Brewers have reached an agreement with left-handed pitcher Jose Quintana on a one-year deal, according to Robert Murray of FanSided. The 36-year-old Wasserman client will be guaranteed a salary between $4-5 million, with additional incentives available, as reported by Francys Romero of BeisbolFR. To make room for Quintana on their full 40-man roster, the Brewers will need to make a corresponding roster move. Quintana, one of the top remaining free agents as the regular season approaches, recently completed a two-year, $26 million contract with the New York Mets. While his surface-level results were solid, his underlying numbers were less impressive.
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Quintana's signing adds depth to the Brewers' pitching staff, providing the team with a veteran presence and experience. With the regular season just over three weeks away, the Brewers are likely banking on Quintana's ability to contribute effectively and bring stability to their rotation. As the team finalizes their roster and prepares for the upcoming season, Quintana's addition is expected to bolster their chances of making a strong run.

The idea of Jose Altuve transitioning from second base to left field emerged when the Astros reengaged with Alex Bregman late in the offseason. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, there were discussions about re-signing Bregman, moving Isaac Paredes from third base to second base, and shifting Altuve to the outfield. Initially, many were skeptical of this plan, given that Altuve had only played six major league innings at a position other than second base—all at shortstop. However, as Houston's chances of reuniting with Bregman dwindled, the Astros continued to give Altuve reps in left field.
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Both manager Joe Espada and GM Dana Brown have expressed their desire to see Altuve in left field and reduce Yordan Alvarez’s time in the outfield. Despite Bregman ultimately signing with Boston, the experiment of Altuve in left field has persisted. Espada and Brown are optimistic about Altuve's ability to adapt to his new position, believing it will benefit the team's overall defense and lineup flexibility.

Mike Moustakas, the former Kansas City Royals third baseman and 2015 World Series champion, is set to sign a one-day contract with the Royals on May 31 to officially retire from Major League Baseball with the team that brought him championship glory. Moustakas, who left the Royals in 2018, will be honored with a pregame ceremony before the Royals take on the Detroit Tigers. Drafted by the Royals in 2007 and making his MLB debut in 2011, Moustakas spent over seven seasons with the team and played a pivotal role in their World Series-winning campaign. His contributions to the Royals are fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike.
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During his time with the Royals, Moustakas was a two-time All-Star and earned the American League Comeback Player of the Year award in 2017. That year, he achieved some of his best career statistics, including a career-high 38 home runs. Moustakas's return to Kansas City for his retirement ceremony is a fitting tribute to a player who gave so much to the organization and its fans. As he hangs up his cleats, Moustakas will leave behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and memorable moments that will be cherished by the Royals community for years to come.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have claimed right-handed pitcher Justin Lawrence off waivers from the Colorado Rockies, as reported by Thomas Harding ofMLB.com.The Rockies placed Lawrence on waivers over the weekend, and while the Pirates have yet to formally announce the claim, they will need to make a corresponding move on their 40-man roster to accommodate Lawrence once the transaction is official. The 30-year-old pitcher had agreed to a $975K salary earlier this offseason, avoiding arbitration in the process. The Pirates will assume this salary and hope to see a resurgence in Lawrence's performance after a challenging 2024 season.
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Lawrence struggled in 2024, posting a 6.49 ERA. However, he showed promise as a reliable late-inning reliever for the Rockies in 2023, saving 11 games and recording 11 holds with a 3.72 ERA. The Pirates are banking on a rebound effort from Lawrence, who has demonstrated the ability to be an effective bullpen arm in the past. As the Pirates integrate Lawrence into their roster, they will be closely monitoring his progress and looking for him to regain his previous form to bolster their relief corps.

The Atlanta Braves have signed veteran right-hander Hector Neris to a minor league deal with a non-roster invitation to big league Spring Training. Neris, who will turn 36 in June, brings a wealth of experience to the Braves' bullpen. He has previously played for the Philadelphia Phillies, Houston Astros, and Chicago Cubs, compiling a career 3.33 ERA and 107 saves over 11 seasons. Last year, Neris split his time between the Cubs and Astros, recording a 4.10 ERA and 18 saves in 59.1 innings. Despite some struggles with command, Neris remains a valuable addition to the Braves' pitching staff, especially given his strong track record and ability to handle high-leverage situations.
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Neris will join a crowded bullpen competition in Braves' camp, where he will have the opportunity to prove himself and earn a spot on the Opening Day roster. The Braves have been actively seeking bullpen help this offseason, and Neris' signing adds another experienced arm to their mix. With his extensive experience and past success, Neris has a good chance of making an impact for the Braves this season. As Spring Training progresses, all eyes will be on Neris to see if he can recapture his form and secure a role in Atlanta's bullpen.

The Atlanta Braves will be without their starting catcher, Sean Murphy, for the next four to six weeks due to a cracked rib. Murphy sustained the injury when he was hit by a pitch during a Grapefruit League game. This setback means Murphy will miss the start of the regular season, leaving a significant gap in the Braves' lineup. Murphy, a former All-Star and Gold Glove Award winner, had a challenging 2024 season, hitting .193 with 10 home runs in 72 games. Despite his struggles, the Braves were counting on him to bounce back this year, especially after parting ways with backup catcher Travis d'Arnaud.
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With Murphy sidelined, the Braves will look to their top prospect, Drake Baldwin, to potentially fill the void. Baldwin, who is not yet on the 40-man roster, has shown promise in the minors and could make his big league debut on Opening Day. The Braves also have other in-house options, including Chadwick Tromp and veteran non-roster invitees Curt Casali and Sandy León. As the team navigates this early-season challenge, they will need to rely on their depth and resilience to maintain their competitive edge.

The Washington Nationals and Baltimore Orioles have finally ended their prolonged legal battle over television rights, a dispute dating back to 2012. On Monday, Major League Baseball announced that the Nationals will be released from their current deal with the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN) after the upcoming season. Under a new one-year contract, Nationals games will still be broadcast by MASN in 2025. Following this term, the Nationals will be free to explore alternative options for their television rights starting from the 2026 season. This settlement resolves all previous media rights disputes between the Nationals, Orioles, and MASN, and will result in the dismissal of all related litigation.
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MASN was established in March 2005 when the Montreal Expos relocated to Washington, becoming the Nationals, and moved into Baltimore's exclusive broadcast territory. The Orioles were initially given a 90% supermajority partnership interest in MASN, while Washington paid $75 million for an initial 10% stake. The agreement stipulated that the Nationals' equity would increase by 1% annually, with a cap of 33%. Over the years, various disputes arose regarding the network's rights payments, leading to multiple lawsuits and decisions by MLB's Revenue Sharing Definitions Committee. The most recent RSDC decision awarded the Nationals approximately $320.5 million for 2022-26, with rights fees adjusted due to the economic conditions of regional sports networks. With this settlement in place, both teams can now move forward without the cloud of ongoing litigation.

After three seasons of batters grimacing at the expanded left-field wall in Camden Yards—affectionately dubbed “Walltimore”—the Orioles announced in November that they’d be making the dimensions a little friendlier to hitters. The updated wall will be moved between 9-20 feet closer to the plate at various points and will be 3-6 feet shorter, depending on the location. This change comes after realizing that the initial expansion may have been an overcorrection. Baltimore general manager Mike Elias stated, “It became clear to us and me and our staff, our coaches, our players, the feedback we received over three years of lived experience that it was a directionally correct move, but we overcorrected.” While it's not the original wall that stood through the 2021 season, it's also not the towering Walltimore setup—it's a compromise between the two.
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Naturally, this adjustment has become a hot topic among players. Free agent signee Tyler O’Neill, a right-handed pull-side slugger, said, “I think it’s good for guys like me, obviously.” Statcast data supports this sentiment, showing that Ryan Mountcastle lost 11 homers due to the previous wall change. However, it's important to note that the change had its benefits too—former Orioles pitcher Cole Irvin was spared from the damage of 10 more dingers. With yet another change in the books, the question now is: What impact will this version of the park have? Only time will tell as we wait to see how the new dimensions will affect gameplay in the upcoming season.

Following a dominant postseason in the Dominican winter league, highlighted by a championship-clinching homer for his hometown Escogido team, Junior Caminero has entered Spring Training in top form. During the Rays' 5-5 tie against the Twins on Sunday afternoon at Hammond Stadium, Caminero showcased his powerful swing by blasting two impressive home runs. He sent a two-run shot to center field in the first inning and followed it with another homer to right field in the third inning, displaying the kind of 'special pop' that has Rays fans buzzing.
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Rays manager Kevin Cash couldn't help but praise Caminero's performance, acknowledging the consistent power the young hitter has displayed from winter ball to Spring Training. "Special pop. We’ve seen it," Cash said. "He's been on quite the run from the winter ball to now, even in live BPs and all those things, and we're seeing it in the game. But he's got a chance to really impact our lineup." Caminero's hot streak and powerful hitting have undoubtedly made him a player to watch as the season approaches.

Drake Baldwin's journey to Spring Training this year feels surreal, knowing he's now the Braves’ top prospect with a potential Major League debut on the horizon. Reflecting on his progress, Baldwin said, “I definitely didn’t think I’d be in this spot three years ago. It’s pretty cool.” Selected by the Braves in the third round of the 2022 MLB Draft, Baldwin has spent the past few years proving his worth beyond just his bat. The 23-year-old catcher has climbed the ranks to become MLB Pipeline’s No. 63 overall prospect. As the 2025 Braves Top 30 Prospects list is set to be released on Monday, Baldwin will claim the top spot, a testament to his impressive performance, including a .298 average, 12 home runs, and a .891 OPS over 334 plate appearances for Triple-A Gwinnett last season.
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Braves starting pitcher Ian Anderson has high praise for Baldwin, emphasizing his work ethic and locker room presence. “He’s awesome. I could stand here all day and talk about him. He’s so good in the locker room, and he loves being around the field. He’s one of the first guys to show up and one of the last guys to leave. I think that goes a long way for that position. He can hit. He’s probably one of the better hitting prospects I’ve seen.” Baldwin’s talent was on full display during last summer’s Futures Game when he hit an opposite-field home run, the game’s hardest-hit ball, traveling 411 feet at 107.3 mph off the bat. As Baldwin continues to rise, the baseball world eagerly anticipates what he’ll achieve next.

With DJ LeMahieu once again facing a spring training injury, the competition for the Yankees' Opening Day third baseman has intensified. LeMahieu, who tweaked his left calf on Saturday, is now uncertain for the start of the season. This setback leaves manager Aaron Boone with a few intriguing options to fill the void. Oswaldo Cabrera, the versatile super-utility man, played 74 games at third base last year and has experience in nearly every position except catcher and center field. Then there's Oswald Peraza, a versatile infielder who appeared in four games for the Yankees last season after spending most of 2024 with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Additionally, Pablo Reyes brings his own infield experience, having played at all four positions for the Red Sox and Mets last year.
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Manager Aaron Boone has made it clear that all three players are in contention for the hot corner. The phrase "next man up" aptly describes the situation, as the Yankees look for a reliable replacement for LeMahieu. Among the contenders, Cabrera stands out with the most time at third base and is likely the leading candidate. However, Jorbit Vivas, who has been nursing a sore shoulder, should not be forgotten in this competitive mix. As spring training progresses, the battle for the starting third baseman spot will be one to watch closely.