Last updated: March 22, 2026, 11:30 AM ET
MLB Roster Moves & Contract News
The Philadelphia Phillies secured their ace left-hander long-term, agreeing to a new six-year contract with Cristopher Sanchez ahead of the season's start, providing stability to their top rotation spot. Conversely, several clubs finalized their Opening Day rosters through cuts and reassignments, with the Baltimore Orioles optioning Dean Kremer—who led the team in wins, innings, and strikeouts last year—to the minors. In Pittsburgh, the Pirates reassigned 19-year-old top prospect Konnor Griffin, while the Tigers granted outfielder Austin Slater his release after he exercised the clause in his minor league deal for failing to make the main roster.
Season Start Setbacks & Roster Finalizations
As clubs prepare for Thursday's openers, injury and experience dictated final roster spots across the league. Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki is slated to miss the opener against Washington after sustaining a minor ligament strain in his right knee during the World Baseball Classic competition, a setback that will delay his season debut. On the veteran front, the New York Yankees confirmed that 34-year-old Randal Grichuk has successfully made the Opening Day roster, while the Texas Rangers granted their release to veteran reliever Ryan Brasier. Additionally, the Washington Nationals let go of right-handed pitcher Drew Smith from his minor league agreement.
Pitching Roles & Off-Field Issues
Managerial decisions regarding starting pitching depth are materializing, particularly in Queens, where the New York Mets named a five-man rotation that will initially feature Sean Manaea coming out of the bullpen in a piggyback arrangement. Meanwhile, on the international stage, Randy Arozarena offered an apology to Seattle Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh regarding the expletive-laced verbal exchange that occurred between them earlier this month during the World Baseball Classic, signaling an end to that clubhouse dispute.