MLB Player News

Falkenbach, who wasn’t taken until the 43rd round of the 2005 draft despite an excellent career as a reliever at Florida, had a 1.61 ERA and a 19/3 K/BB ratio in 22 1/3 innings for Single-A Dunedin. His upside is Todd Williams, but that’s still very good for where he was picked.

Orioles skipper Craig Albernaz told reporters Holliday remains shut down from hitting, but is participating in some baseball activities, after leaving a minor league rehab contest with hand discomfort last week. The 22-year-old underwent surgery to repair a hamate fracture back in spring training. It doesn’t sound like he’s close to getting back in minor league games since the Orioles can’t really afford to take any chances with his long-term health.

Mendoza added that Robert, who is out of the lineup for Tuesday’s contest, isn’t scheduled to undergo imaging, but they may be forced to reconsider if he doesn’t show signs of improvement later this week. A lingering back issue would provide a logical explanation for his recent struggles as he’s hitting .164 (9-for-55) with one homer and 12 strikeouts over his last 15 games. Fantasy managers should consider him day-to-day heading into the final two games of a four-game set against the Nationals.

Cruz returns to the leadoff spot after being a late scratch from Monday’s series opener due to illness. The 27-year-old center fielder has gotten off to a phenomenal start at the plate this season, slashing .259/.320/.518 with 19 runs scored, eight homers, 24 RBI and 10 steals through 27 games.

Fans of the Sounds will get a chance to see both Vaughn and Jackson Chourio (hand) in the lineup beginning Wednesday. Both will likely need a handful of games before being ready to return, but two of the more important hitters in the Milwaukee lineup have a chance to be back with the Brewers relatively early in May.

As expected, Stanton hits the injured list after suffering the “mild” strain during Friday’s game against the Astros. It’s feasible this could be a short stint on the list for the 36-year-old slugger, and it’s possible — although far from a guarantee — that he’s back in the New York lineup by the early portion of May.

Chourio will likely play a handful of games with the Sounds. The 22-year-old has a great chance to get back into the lineup early next week, and his power/speed combination will be a welcome return for both the Brew Crew and fantasy managers.

Avila is back up to replace Eli Morgan in the bullpen, with Morgan optioned to Triple-A in a corresponding move. The 24-year-old scuffled to a 9.00 ERA in his brief stint with Kansas City, but he’ll get another chance to help the Royals’ relief corps.

Morgan has pitched solidly in 2026 with a 2.61 ERA, but the Royals will go with a fresh arm and bring up Luinder Avila to take his place in the bullpen.

Sanders will head back to Triple-A With Graham Ashcraft coming off the bereavement list. The 29-year-old right-hander is likely to make a few trips between Pittsburgh and Indianapolis in 2026.

Ashcraft is back after being away from the team for the past three days. The 26-year-old will make the start against St. Louis, and is worth streaming consideration based on how he’s pitched in 2026.