Last updated: March 22, 2026, 7:35 AM ET
Opening Day Roster Moves & Injuries
Major League Baseball clubs finalized several significant roster adjustments ahead of Thursday’s season openers, with injury concerns impacting key contenders. The Chicago Cubs confirmed that outfielder Seiya Suzuki will miss the game against Washington after suffering a minor ligament strain in his right knee during the World Baseball Classic competition. Elsewhere, in moves signaling the start of the campaign, the New York Yankees will carry 34-year-old veteran Randal Grichuk onto their Opening Day roster, providing immediate depth in the outfield. These decisions contrast sharply with personnel cuts happening across the league as teams trim down to their final 26-man groups following waiver claims.
Minor League Reassignments & Veteran Cuts
Several teams finalized their pitching and position player depth by reassigning high-ceiling prospects to minor league camp, including the Pittsburgh Pirates’ decision concerning 19-year-old Konnor Griffin. Baltimore followed a similar path, optioning starter Dean Kremer to the minors despite his leading the Orioles in wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts during the previous season, suggesting the team intends to manage his workload early. Furthermore, established veteran arms are finding themselves suddenly without clubs; the Texas Rangers granted their release to former Red Sox and Cubs reliever Ryan Brasier, while the Washington Nationals also released right-hander Drew Smith from his minor league contract.
Rotation Setups & Contract Decisions
In Queens, the New York Mets detailed an unconventional start to their rotation plan, stating that Sean Manaea will begin the season coming out of the bullpen in a designated piggyback role as part of their initial five-man setup managed by Carlos Mendoza. Meanwhile, players who failed to secure a spot on the 40-man roster are exercising immediate options. Outfielder Austin Slater activated a release clause in his contract with the Detroit Tigers after failing to make the final Opening Day roster, seeking immediate free agency elsewhere in the league.