Last updated: March 22, 2026, 2:30 PM ET
Pre-Season Roster Moves & Injuries
As Opening Day approaches, several clubs finalized movements, with the Mets suffering a setback as outfielder Mike Tauchman requires surgery for a torn meniscus, jeopardizing the veteran's projected spot after signing a minor league deal last month. In Philadelphia, the Phillies secured their ace by agreeing to a new six-year contract extension with left-hander Cristopher Sanchez, providing long-term stability to their rotation. Meanwhile, the Cubs will be without Suzuki for their Thursday opener against Washington, as Seiya Suzuki continues recovery from a minor ligament strain sustained in his right knee during the World Baseball Classic tournament Nationals released reliever Smith from his minor league contract as they continue to pare down their roster ahead of the deadline.
Pitching Depth Decisions & Veteran Moves
Clubs continued to shape their pitching staffs, with the Orioles optioning Kremer back to the minors despite Dean Kremer having led the team in wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts in the previous season, indicating deep rotation options in Baltimore. The Pirates also reassigned top prospect Griffin to minor league camp, signaling that the 19-year-old Konnor Griffin will need further seasoning before reaching the majors. On the veteran relief front, the Rangers granted release papers to Ryan Brasier, while the Nationals also cut ties with right-handed pitcher Drew Smith from his minor league agreement Orioles optioning Kremer.
Final Roster Cuts & Player Agency
Several players on the fringe of Opening Day rosters sought immediate new opportunities after being informed they would not make the cut. Outfielder Austin Slater exercised his release clause in the minor league contract he signed with the Detroit Tigers after failing to secure a spot on their initial roster. Conversely, veteran Randal Grichuk, successfully landed on the Yankees' roster, securing a spot for the team's opener against the Astros. Separately, in a situation stemming from international play, Randy Arozarena offered an apology to his current Mariners teammate Cal Raleigh regarding expletive-laced comments directed toward Raleigh during the recent World Baseball Classic competition.