Viewing MLB developments through the lens of fantasy baseball adds essential context. Player rankings and values are influenced by various elements, including lineup adjustments, minor league promotions, and injuries. As news emerges, our fantasy baseball buzz file, curated by ESPN’s fantasy experts, provides valuable insights for fantasy managers.
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Mar 31: Key Updates for Monday
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Today, only two teams—the Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Yankees—are not taking the field, as they prepare for their interleague matchup starting tomorrow. MLB games kick off at 2:10 PM ET, featuring two matchups.
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Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto was sidelined yesterday after a ball hit his foot; however, optimism surrounds his return today. Conversely, shortstop Trea Turner may sit out a third consecutive game due to back spasms. With a day off tomorrow, the team hopes he’ll be ready to go on Wednesday, while Edmundo Sosa is likely to continue in the lineup.
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In Baltimore, the Orioles are assessing the status of outfielder Colton Cowser and infielder Jordan Westburg as they prepare to face the Boston Red Sox. Cowser suffered a thumb injury while Westburg missed yesterday’s game but was deemed available for emergencies, implying he may play today.
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The Cleveland Guardians are also monitoring Jose Ramirez after he sprained his wrist on Saturday. Although he didn’t participate in yesterday’s game, he was considered for pinch-hitting duties and could potentially be back tonight against the San Diego Padres.
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The Toronto Blue Jays have placed pitcher Max Scherzer on the injured list due to inflammation in his right thumb. This persistent issue has prompted the team to pause his activity for at least two weeks, as further throwing could exacerbate the condition.
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Third baseman Josh Jung of the Texas Rangers is on the 10-day IL following neck spasms. Jung’s absence lasts at least through the weekend, but his stint can be backdated to allow for a potential early return by April 8, which the manager is hopeful for. — Todd Zola
Mar 30: Notable Updates for Sunday
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Today features a limited schedule with several teams—including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, and New York Mets—not in action. The day kicks off at 1:35 PM ET, culminating with the San Diego Padres taking on the Atlanta Braves in ESPN’s first Sunday night broadcast of the season.
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This season’s first 80 games have seen 98 home runs hit, compared to 91 from the same stage last year. Teams have also stolen 69 bases, outpacing the 57 steals recorded last year. The average runs per game total is 4.2 this season versus 5.2 in 2024, with the batting average currently at .232—a 34-point drop from the .256 average at this time last year.
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In Los Angeles, Angels center fielder Jo Adell exited yesterday’s game due to hip tightness, although he downplayed the severity. With Mickey Moniak being released pre-season, Kyren Paris could take over if Adell cannot play.
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The Texas Rangers scratched third baseman Josh Jung from Saturday’s lineup due to neck spasms. Manager Bruce Bochy confirmed Jung would miss a few games, with Josh Smith being the likely fill-in.
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Finally, Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer had a challenging debut, throwing only 45 pitches before exiting due to a lat issue. He has struggled with a sore thumb throughout spring training, which he believes is connected to this latest injury. Scherzer may head to the injured list, potentially paving the way for Yariel Rodriguez to step into the rotation.
