MLB Baseball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 21, 2026, 9:30 AM ET
MLB Roster Moves & Prospect Shuffling
The final stages of spring training saw several high-profile prospects reassigned to the minors as teams solidified Opening Day rosters, most notably with the New York Yankees optioning outfielder Jasson Dominguez to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Following a similar trend due to offensive struggles, the Washington Nationals sent top selection Dylan Crews down to Triple-A, while the Miami Marlins released southpaw Braxton Garrett to Jacksonville, designating right-hander Janson Junk as their likely No. 5 starter. Conversely, the Philadelphia Phillies confirmed that rookie right-hander Andrew Painter has successfully secured the final spot in their rotation as the fifth starter entering the season.
Contract Status & Legal Issues
Several veteran players faced immediate roster uncertainty or off-field complications; the Minnesota Twins released high-priced reliever Liam Hendriks, along with left-hander Andrew Chafin and infielder Gio Urshela, from their minor league contracts on Friday ahead of the season opener. Separately, Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz were placed on unpaid non-disciplinary leave as both await trial proceedings related to an alleged pitch-rigging conspiracy, a matter settled temporarily between the league and the players' union. Further complicating matters away from the field, the family of former Yankee outfielder Brett Gardner initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against a Costa Rican resort following the death of their 14-year-old son from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Collectibles Market
In the memorabilia sector, a unique piece of baseball history featuring two reigning Most Valuable Players commanded a high price at auction. A 2025 Topps Chrome dual MVP gold Logoman card, sequentially numbered 1-of-1 and featuring on-card signatures alongside game-worn patches from both stars, ultimately sold for $2.16 million. The transaction underscores the sustained premium placed on collectibles associated with marquee talents like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani.