Last updated: March 22, 2026, 9:30 AM ET
Pre-Season Roster Adjustments & Discipline
As Major League Baseball teams finalize their Opening Day rosters, several notable players faced reassignment or release, while others navigated disciplinary issues stemming from the recent World Baseball Classic WBC. Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena publicly offered an apology to his teammate Cal Raleigh after directing expletive-laced comments toward him during the tournament, marking a crucial step toward clubhouse reconciliation before the regular season commences. Elsewhere, the Chicago Cubs confirmed that Seiya Suzuki will miss Thursday’s opener against Washington after suffering a minor ligament strain in his right knee during WBC competition, forcing the team to pivot its lineup plans early on.
Bullpen & Rotation Shaping
Clubs are setting their final pitching alignments, resulting in difficult decisions regarding established starters and veteran relievers ahead of Thursday's slate of games. The New York Mets announced a flexible starting plan, slotting left-hander Sean Manaea into a piggyback role out of the bullpen to begin the season rather than taking a traditional spot in the five-man rotation. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles optioned Dean Kremer to the minor leagues despite him leading the team last year in wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts, signaling a desire for further development or roster flexibility. Similarly, the Pittsburgh Pirates reassigned their highly touted 19-year-old prospect Konnor Griffin to minor league camp following Saturday’s evaluations.
Veteran Cuts & Roster Finalization
Several established major leaguers were released or exercised contract clauses as teams sought to trim their 40-man and 26-man rosters in the final days of Spring Training activity. The Texas Rangers granted their release to veteran reliever Ryan Brasier, who previously pitched for the Red Sox and Cubs, clearing a spot on the active roster. In similar moves aimed at securing immediate options, the Washington Nationals released right-handed pitcher Drew Smith from his minor league agreement just before the mandated deadline. Conversely, the New York Yankees confirmed that 34-year-old veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk successfully secured a spot on the Opening Day roster. Separately, outfielder Austin Slater opted to terminate the minor league contract he held with the Detroit Tigers after failing to secure a major league placement.