MLB Player News

Márquez settled for one strikeout, two missed swings and a 15 percent CSW today. The Rockies have yet to announce their rotation, but it looks like Márquez, who finished the spring with a 5.74 ERA, is lined up to start the third game against the Rays on Sunday.

With left-hander Chris Sale on the mound, the Padres will turn to Gurriel at designated hitter instead of Gavin Sheets, who figures to start there against most right-handed pitchers. The 41-year-old Gurriel had a strong spring training, hitting .306/.342/.472 in 38 plate appearances. He figures to be on the weak side of the platoon, so he doesn’t carry much fantasy value.

Kirby resumed throwing last week after two weeks off to rest his shoulder. The Mariners haven’t indicated when he’ll begin a rehab assignment, but it’s possible he could return from the injured list before the end of April.

Taylor is expected to begin pitching in minor league games soon, and he could join the Mariners pen before the end of April, assuming that there’s room for him.

Brash made his spring debut Monday, and barring a setback, he should join the Mariners pen in mid-to-late April.

Estrada figures to miss the first month of the season. He’ll probably reemerge as the Rockies’ primary second baseman after returning, but the newly acquired Tyler Freeman might have something to say about that. Of course, the Rockies could also shift Freeman to the outfield if they’d like.

Criswell is out for the year. Next time you hear about him it’ll be because he’s being transferred to the 60-day IL.

Gomber was able to throw 3 2/3 innings in a Cactus League game on Saturday, so his return should be right around the corner. Bradley Blalock might get one turn in his place the first time a fifth starter is needed.

Moniak will earn $1.25 million. His competition for corner outfield at-bats is Jordan Beck, Nick Martini and Sean Bouchard, so there’s a good chance he’ll wind up getting a long look against right-handers.

The Rockies are so excited about 34-year-old journeyman Nick Martini that they’re cutting Hilliard after he hit .239/.305/.507 for the club last season and after giving him a $1 million deal in November. He’ll probably clear waivers, and while he could opt for free agency, his best bet would be to stick around and wait another change in the winds.

Whitley was expecting to start the season as a long relief option this season, but he suffered a bone bruise at the beginning of March. He has already been throwing and could push to get his bullpen spot in the next couple of weeks.