MLB Player News

Diaz appears poised to take over as Houston’s primary backstop entering next season following a stellar 23-homer rookie campaign, which he accomplished in just 377 plate appearances over 104 games. The 25-year-old catcher remains a work in progress from a defensive standpoint, but he’s unquestionably one of the most gifted slugging catchers in baseball already. It’s possible veteran defensive stalwart Martín Maldonado, who is currently a free agent, could return in a reserve role, but it looks like the Astros are finally ready to hand Diaz the metaphorical car keys. He’s a realistic 30-homer threat, and a potential top-10 option at the position, heading into fantasy drafts next spring.

The move will all but assuredly keep Madden out to begin the start of the 2025 season. The 25-year-old could be a multi-inning option for the Tigers before the campaign comes to a close, but shoulder issues do have a tendency to hang on for longer than their welcome.

Dubin has been bothered by a shoulder issue since essentially the start of spring training. The 29-year-old will likely need several bullpens before he’s ready to go, and it makes him unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2025 season.

Ort is “progressing nicely” according to manager Joe Espada. The 33-year-old is a question mark for Opening Day, but if the progress continues, he should be back early in April if he isn’t quite ready.

Beeter has been out of action with a shoulder injury. The 26-year-old is expected to work as a multi-inning reliever, but he won’t be able to help the Yankees until the middle of April at the earliest.

No new injuries here, and the Brewers want to make sure it stays that way. Yelich, who played left field Wednesday for the first time since back surgery is 0-for-5 to date.

No surprises in this round of cuts for the Brewers. Pannone might have had a slight chance of claiming a spot, but he’s dealing with an injury. Pratt, arguably the team’s best prospect, impressed by going 5-for-14 with three doubles.

Down goes a saves sleeper. Berroa, who was acquired from the Mariners a year ago, had a 3.32 ERA in 19 innings as a rookie last season. His wildness didn’t make him a great bet for this season, but he probably had the highest ceiling in the White Sox pen.

Carela, 23, was added to the 40-man over the winter, though he was a long shot to make much of a contribution this season. He was 7-7 with a 3.71 ERA and a 114/45 K/BB in 106 2/3 innings between high-A and Double-A last season.

McCullers threw either 23 or 24 pitches — who’s really counting, anyway? — and told reporters that he felt good after the session. It’s the second live bullpen for the right-hander as he continues to make progress from the flexor tendon issue in his right elbow. The hope is that McCullers can make starts for the Astros by the end of April.

Elbis, 22, was only added to the 40-man roster because they didn’t wanna risk losing the 6-foot-1 right-hander to the Rule 5 draft. He could make appearances for the Diamondbacks by the end of 2025, but not likely in a fantasy-relevant role.