MLB Player News

The Royals, and fantasy managers, can breath a sigh of relief. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that while a timetable for his return in unclear, Witt is expected to avoid a lengthy absence. The 24-year-old fantasy superstar underwent precautionary X-rays to rule out any fractures after being hit by a 96-mph fastball on the left forearm during Wednesday’s Cactus League contest against the Mariners. It’s possible he’ll undergo some additional testing, including an MRI or CT scan, to eliminate any additional structural concerns, but it sounds like he’s managed to avoid serious injury. It’s too early to speculate whether he’ll be ready in time for Opening Day. There should be some additional clarity on his status later this week, if not sooner.

Doyle had some impressive spring outings, but not quite impressive enough. The 25-year-old could be up at some point if he has success in Durham and the Rays need rotation help.

Lugo allowed just one run over the first five innings, but gave up three runs in the sixth before being pulled. The right-hander’s ERA bumped up to 5.50 in Arizona, but he’s pitched better than that number. Lugo will be on the mound next weekend against the Guardians.

Contreras has no need for more at-bats. He’s 15-for-31 with two homers this spring. Although he’s no longer a catcher, he makes for a terrific fantasy pick at that spot as he prepares to serve as a full-time first baseman.

Liberatore allowed two hits, walked two and struck out two. He closes out the spring with a 1.62 ERA in 16 2/3 innings, but it still seems like Michael McGreevy has overtaken him on the rotation depth chart. Liberatore probably will return to the bullpen, though the Cardinals do have the option of sending him down to Triple-A and allowing him to continue to start.

Bellozo was demoted by the Marlins last week, but he now seems to be in line to be the team’s fifth starter after Ryan Weathers’ injury. We figured yesterday it’d be Janson Junk’s spot, but he was cut today. Bellozo has shown some extra velocity this spring after wearing down badly as last year went on. Still, he’s given up 14 earned runs in 13 1/3 innings anyway. He’s not an option in fantasy leagues.

Stowers is 5-for-35 with no homers this spring. If Jesús Sánchez was healthy, we imagine Stowers would be Triple-A bound for the start of the year. As is, it doesn’t really seem like the Marlins have anyone else they would want to carry in his spot. Perhaps they could be active on the waiver wire next week in search of alternatives to both Stowers and Matt Mervis.

It was the first time that Leiter has gone six innings in a Texas uniform, even if it doesn’t technically count. The right-hander limited the damage to just three runs, but did it while allowing a whopping 11 hits and a walk. He was routinely over 100 mph with his fastball, and continues to show the stuff that made him the second-overall pick in 2021. Leiter has a good — but not yet guaranteed — shot of opening the year in the Texas rotation.

Pasquantino was trying to beat out a ground ball and immediately exited to the clubhouse. The 27-year-old will likely be examined before the Royals give an update on his status.

Scherzer’s 62 pitches today weren’t a big test for his right thumb, which he previously indicated starts bothering him around 50 pitches into his outing. He impressed today, averaging 93.3 mph with his fastball and allowing just two hard-hit balls. Assuming that he feels good tomorrow, we imagine that he’ll be included in the season-opening rotation.

Duran showed his best velocity of the spring today, with his four fastballs averaging 100.0 mph and his nine splitters coming in at 97.0. It’s a little concerning that Rocco Baldelli never has actually named Duran his 2025 closer, given that he seemed to prefer Griffin Jax at the very end of last season. Still, we imagine Duran will get most of the chances, even if Baldelli isn’t as strict with the ninth as the typical manager.