MLB Baseball 8 Hours

Last updated: March 23, 2026, 10:30 PM ET

MLB Roster Finalizations & Injury Updates

Teams across Major League Baseball finalized Opening Day rosters while navigating late spring injury setbacks, setting the stage for the upcoming season. The Cubs confirmed that outfielder Seiya Suzuki will begin the year on the injured list after suffering a strained knee ligament during the World Baseball Classic, a significant blow to Chicago's lineup. Conversely, the Rangers secured a veteran presence, with 39-year-old Andrew McCutchen earning a spot after posting an impressive .444 spring batting average that included three doubles and a home run. Furthermore, several young players secured their big league debuts, as Mets prospect Carson Benge will start in right field following a sizzling .366 spring performance, while Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt, the 2024 seventh overall draft selection, also made the St. Louis roster as expected.

Pitching Carousel & Injury Replacements

Pitching departments saw considerable movement on Monday as clubs managed final injury designations and rotation sequencing. The Milwaukee Brewers announced that two-time All-Star right-hander Brandon Woodruff will make his season debut on March 31, starting the team's fifth game as he completes his return from a lat strain, avoiding a stint on the injured list. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers addressed their bullpen depth by signing right-handed reliever Connor Seabold to a one-year split contract just as they moved Beau Briske onto the 60-day injured list, signaling a more extended timeline for his recovery. The movement indicates teams are setting firm personnel plans after the final exhibition contests concluded over the weekend.