Last updated: March 21, 2026, 8:30 PM ET
MLB Roster Cuts & Minor League Options
As Opening Day approaches, several organizations finalized their rosters by reassigning key players to the minor leagues, signaling immediate adjustments to their depth charts. The Baltimore Orioles optioned 2023 wins leader Dean Kremer to Triple-A, despite his strong prior performance leading the club in wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts last season. Similarly, the Pittsburgh Pirates reassigned their highly touted 19-year-old top prospect, Konnor Griffin, to minor league camp, prioritizing development over immediate major league deployment for the teenager.
Veteran Moves & Contract Releases
Teams continued to trim veteran presence, with multiple players securing their immediate futures or seeking new opportunities after being released from minor league agreements. The New York Yankees retained 34-year-old veteran Randal Grichuk, placing him on the final Opening Day roster following a competitive spring showing. Conversely, the Washington Nationals released right-handed reliever Drew Smith from his minor league contract, while the Texas Rangers granted reliever Ryan Brasier his outright release after he had previously spent time with the Red Sox and Cubs. Furthermore, outfielder Austin Slater exercised a release clause in his contract with the Detroit Tigers after failing to secure a spot on the major league roster.