Atlanta Braves Face Pitching Challenges
The Atlanta Braves are grappling with ongoing pitching struggles. Bryce Elder recently had a subpar performance against the Red Sox, highlighting the team’s current issues. The Braves are uncertain about their pitching rotation for Opening Day. Elder ended last season with 46 strikeouts across 10 games, but his recent form raises concerns. Injuries are also a problem, with Sean Murphy out for at least a month due to a broken rib. The Braves are considering acquiring a $56 million Cy Young winner to bolster their rotation as they face major pitching dilemmas heading into the 2025 season.
Spencer Strider’s Return and Injury Concerns
Spencer Strider, the Braves’ ace, was sidelined much of last year due to a UCL injury. His absence affected the team’s consistency on the mound. However, his return date is becoming clearer after recent progress. Strider could rejoin the rotation by late April following his recovery from surgery and recent live batting practice sessions. Meanwhile, Jurickson Profar received a positive update despite an earlier injury scare. He will undergo an MRI on a jammed wrist suffered during a game against the Pirates.
Braves’ Outfield Strength and All-Star Candidates
When healthy, the Braves’ outfield is expected to be one of their biggest strengths and among the best in baseball. Michael Harris II and Spencer Schwellenbach have been named candidates to be first-time All-Stars by Baseball America. The Braves lead MLB with a 2.60 ERA during Spring Training as of Sunday morning, narrowly ahead of the Detroit Tigers (2.70). This performance showcases the potential of their pitching staff, despite current challenges.
New York Yankees and Mets Eye Dodgers’ Signing
A former MLB executive suggests that teams like the New York Yankees and New York Mets might request an investigation into the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ signing of Japanese ace Roki Sasaki. The Dodgers secured Sasaki’s signing, concluding one of the last major pursuits in MLB free agency. Nearly 20 teams expressed interest in acquiring Sasaki, with the Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays emerging as finalists. Some league insiders believe that multiple teams will ask for an investigation due to suspicions of a precut deal before official negotiations were allowed.
Fantasy Baseball Updates: Injuries and Player Performances
The fantasy baseball preseason is in full swing with spring training games underway. Andrew Benintendi of the Chicago White Sox fractured his right hand but did not require surgery. He may still be ready for Opening Day. Luis Gil of the Yankees is out due to shoulder tightness after undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2022. Giancarlo Stanton will miss the start of the season due to tendinitis in both elbows, a recurring issue from last season. Fantasy managers should downgrade him in drafts accordingly.
Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds Injury Reports
Trevor Megill of the Milwaukee Brewers made his spring debut after being behind schedule due to an undisclosed injury. His role as closer is uncertain with other team options available. Spencer Steer of the Cincinnati Reds has an injured shoulder but is expected to be cautious by the Reds due to organizational depth. He received a cortisone shot and will rest for several days. Fantasy managers should monitor developments closely.
Texas Rangers’ Kumar Rocker Struggles
Kumar Rocker of the Texas Rangers struggled in spring training starts, allowing multiple earned runs over limited innings. He may need more minor league work despite being drafted by some fantasy managers. His performance suggests he might not be ready for major league action soon. Fantasy managers should adjust their expectations accordingly.
Sean Murphy’s Injury Impact on Braves
Sean Murphy suffered a fractured rib from a pitch and will miss at least a month, affecting his draft position negatively. He was previously a reliable top-10 fantasy catcher. Prospect Drake Baldwin could take over starting duties. If Baldwin makes the team, he should be moved up draft lists. The Braves may also consider adding free-agent catchers like Yasmani Grandal or James McCann to fill the gap left by Murphy’s absence.
Conclusion: MLB Teams Navigate Challenges and Opportunities
As the MLB season progresses, teams are navigating a mix of challenges and opportunities. The Braves are dealing with pitching struggles and injuries, while the Yankees and Mets are eyeing potential investigations into the Dodgers’ signing of Roki Sasaki. Fantasy baseball managers are adjusting their strategies based on player performances and injury updates. As teams continue to prepare for the upcoming season, fans can expect more developments and exciting matchups in the weeks ahead.