Fantasy Baseball News

Bryan Woo Shuts Out Texas Over 3 2/3 Innings On Friday

Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Bryan Woo didn't factor into the decision on Friday when he allowed just two hits while striking out five and walking three over 3 2/3 innings in an 8-0 win over the Texas Rangers. Woo was given the difficult task of containing the explosive Rangers' offense, who had previously tagged him for 12 earned runs over just 5 1/3 combined innings in his last two starts against them. He ran into some trouble in the first inning, walking a pair of batters, but was able to record all three outs via the strikeout. He then loaded the bases in the third inning but worked his way out of the jam. He recorded two outs in the fourth before being pulled at his limit (82 pitches). The 23-year-old finishes the 2023 season with a respectable 4.21 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, and 93:31 K/BB ratio over 87 2/3 innings (18 starts). His previous career-high in innings pitched was 57, which he set last year. He'll likely work out of the bullpen if the Mariners were to reach the postseason.

Sep 30 · Source via Prospects Seattle Mariners Bryan Woo

Nathan Eovaldi Tagged With Seven Earned Runs In Loss To The M's

Texas Rangers starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi took the loss on Friday when he allowed seven earned runs on five hits to go along with five strikeouts and two walks over 3 1/3 innings in an 8-0 defeat at the hands of the Seattle Mariners. Eovaldi worked through the first two innings with ease before surrendering solo home runs to both Ty France and Josh Rojas in the third inning. He then coughed up an RBI double to Eugenio Suarez in that same frame before loading the bases and allowing another RBI single in the fourth inning. He was pulled at 3 1/3 innings and replaced by reliever Brock Burke, who allowed a grand slam to J.P. Crawford to break the game open. When it was all said and done, Eovaldi was tagged with seven earned runs. The veteran right-hander has been a disaster in September, sporting a 9.30 ERA and 1.92 WHIP while allowing 21 earned runs in 20 1/3 innings. The 33-year-old hasn't made it past the fifth inning in any of his six starts this month, either. He will finish the 2023 regular season with a 12-5 record, 3.63 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 132:47 K/BB ratio over 144 innings (25 starts).

Sep 30 · Source via Texas Rangers Nathan Eovaldi

J.P. Crawford Delivers A Grand Slam In Win Over Texas

Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford went 1-for-4 with a grand slam, two runs scored, a walk, and two strikeouts in an 8-0 shutout win over the Texas Rangers on Friday night. Crawford played the hero on Thursday night, delivering a walk-off single to prevent the Rangers from clinching a playoff spot. He wasn't done yet, however, as he roped a grand slam into right field on Friday off of reliever Brock Burke to give Seattle an 8-0 lead in the bottom of the fourth. Neither team would score for the rest of the game and Texas pulled a handful of their star players as they'll try to regroup and clinch a postseason berth on Saturday. As for Crawford, he's put together the best season of his career so far, slashing .266/.381/.440 with 19 home runs, 65 RBI, and two stolen bases over 527 at-bats. The on-base percentage, slugging percentage, home runs, and RBI are all career-bests for the 28-year-old shortstop.

Sep 30 · Source via Seattle Mariners J.P. Crawford

Charlie Blackmon Signs One-Year Contract Extension With Rockies

Colorado Rockies outfielder/designated hitter Charlie Blackmon has signed a one-year, $13 million contract extension with the team. The 37-year-old, who has spent his entire 13-year career with Colorado, was going to hit free agency this offseason but he'll stay on for another year with the Rockies. The veteran outfielder has put together an excellent season in Colorado, albeit one that has been limited by injuries. He's slashing .285/.370/.450 with eight home runs, 40 RBI, and four stolen bases over 351 at-bats in 92 games.

Sep 30 · Source via Colorado Rockies Charlie Blackmon

Osleivis Basabe Exits Early On Friday

Tampa Bay Rays infielder Osleivis Basabe (shoulder) left Friday's loss to the Toronto Blue Jays early after suffering a shoulder injury while diving for a ball on defense. Rays manager Kevin Cash told reporters after the game that the 23-year-old prospect is sore and will need to be further evaluated. Basabe is slashing .212/.272/.306 with one home run and 12 RBI over 85 at-bats since his call-up back in mid-August. The team will provide more details on his status before Saturday's game.

Sep 30 · Source via Prospects Tampa Bay Rays Osleivis Basabe

Carlos Rodon Limps Into Offseason After Disastrous Finale

New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodon was bombarded for eight runs before recording a single out in Friday's 12-5 loss to the Kansas City Royals. Talk about an ugly curtain call on a miserable Yankees debut for the prized free-agent acquisition. Rodon's hideous evening saw him get shelled for four singles, one double, one home run, and two walks before Matt Bowman mercifully relieved him. The southpaw hopes to quickly forget 2023 after debuting about halfway through the campaign due to a forearm strain and scuffling to a ghastly 6.85 ERA and 1.45 WHIP with 15 homers (64 1/3 innings), which is three greater than he allowed a year ago in 17 fewer starts. Rodon will be searching for answers this offseason, considering his velocity was mostly on par with last season's figure despite far inferior results.

Sep 30 · Source via New York Yankees Carlos Rodon

Nico Hoerner Forced From Friday's Game

Chicago Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner (knee) exited Friday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers due to a left knee contusion. He went 0-for-3 before Miles Mastrobuoni took over for him at second base in the seventh inning. Hoerner fouled a ball off his knee during the sixth frame but stayed in for the bottom half defensively, insinuating that he's not dealing with a significant injury. The Cubs, losers of fourth straight after Friday's deflating extra-inning defeat, hope the speedy contact hitter can push through the bruise this weekend as they vie for an NL wild-card berth. On top of great defense at the keystone, Hoerner is batting .283 with 68 RBI, 98 runs scored, and 43 stolen bases in 619 at-bats during 2023.

Sep 30 · Source via Chicago Cubs Nico Hoerner

Jorge Polanco Day-To-Day With Sore Ankle

Minnesota Twins infielder Jorge Polanco (ankle) departed Friday's game against the Colorado Rockies with right ankle soreness. He went 1-for-3 before Alex Kirilloff subbed in for him during the sixth inning. Polanco is being deemed day-to-day with his next chance to return arriving during Saturday's meeting at Coors Field. The Twins have dealt with enough injuries to key contributors this year, like Byron Buxton (knee) and Royce Lewis (hamstring), so it's fair to wonder if the AL Central champions elect to hold out Polanco until the playoffs. The former All-Star has been very productive when healthy, slashing .255/.335/.454 with 14 home runs, 48 RBI, and four stolen bases in 302 at-bats (80 games).

Sep 30 · Source via Minnesota Twins Jorge Polanco

Adley Rutschman Likely Available Saturday

Baltimore Orioles manager Brandon Hyde says catcher Adley Rutschman (illness) will "probably" be available for Saturday's game versus the Boston Red Sox. The switch-hitting backstop was scratched from Friday's lineup due to an illness and Hyde's phrasing is worth noting, as it doesn't guarantee Rutschman back in the starting lineup for the penultimate game of the regular year. The former top prospect is about to get his first taste of postseason baseball after slashing a rock-solid .277/.374/.436 with 20 home runs, 31 doubles, 79 RBI, and 84 runs scored in 680 plate appearances in his first full season of action. Rutschman will look to pad those numbers if he indeed returns to play Saturday.

Sep 30 · Source via Baltimore Orioles Adley Rutschman

Rangers Lose Jon Gray To Forearm Tightness

The Texas Rangers put Jon Gray on the 15-day injured list due to right lower-forearm tightness on Friday. The veteran right-hander is the latest name to hit the shelf in an injury-plagued Rangers rotation throughout the course of this year. Gray could return at some stage of the postseason, but he's set to miss at least a few weeks after leaving his Sept. 25 start with the forearm injury. The 31-year-old got off to a fabulous start (2.32 ERA through first 12 starts) before faltering for a 5.70 ERA across his most recent 17 starts to end the year. Overall, Gray punched out 142 and walked 54 in 157 1/3 innings before his regular season finished.

Sep 30 · Source via Texas Rangers Jon Gray

Mitch Haniger Ends Disappointing Year On Injured List

The San Francisco Giants put outfielder/designated hitter Mitch Haniger on the 10-day injured list due to a lower-back strain on Friday. It faintly wraps up another injury-riddled campaign for the oft-injured slugger, whose Giants debut season closes with a career-worst .209/.266/.365 slash line in only 211 at-bats over 61 games. Haniger has another year on his contract ahead of a 2025 player option, and he'll aim to start next season off on the right foot after spending most of 2023 on the sidelines with various ailments. The 32-year-old should be a decent bounce-back fantasy flier at the end of drafts this winter after providing only six home runs, 13 doubles, and 28 RBI this year.

Sep 30 · Source via San Francisco Giants Mitch Haniger

J.P. France Won't Pitch On Friday

Houston Astros starting pitcher J.P. France has been scratched ahead of his scheduled start against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday. The team hasn't given a reason as to why France has been pulled from this start. Hopefully, it's only a minor issue, but there should be more information soon. In the meantime, Jose Urquidy will take the ball versus the D-Backs on Friday night. Urquidy has struggled this season, so he won't be an ideal streaming option for this game.

Sep 29 · Source via Houston Astros J.P. France

Ramon Urias Scratched From Friday's Lineup

Baltimore Orioles infielder Ramon Urias (illness) has been scratched from Friday's starting lineup versus the Boston Red Sox. Both Urias and catcher Adley Rutschman will hit the bench with an illness on Friday. Possibly, the two of them partied too hard after clinching the AL East division on Thursday. Regardless, it sounds like a minor issue, so both players should return within the next few days. In his absence, Jordan Westburg will cover third base and bat sixth versus right-hander Nick Pivetta on Friday.

Sep 29 · Source via Baltimore Orioles Ramon Urias

Nolan Schanuel Returns To The Lineup

Los Angeles Angels first baseman Nolan Schanuel (knee) is back in the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Oakland Athletics. The 21-year-old is back in the lineup for the first time since leaving Monday's game due to knee tightness. This season, Schanuel is slashing .284/.407/.343 with one home run and five RBI in 27 games. He'll resume his regular role in the leadoff spot and covering first base versus southpaw Ken Waldichuk on Friday.

Sep 29 · Source via Prospects Los Angeles Angels Nolan Schanuel

Giancarlo Stanton To Sit Out On Friday

New York Yankees outfielder Giancarlo Stanton is out of the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Kansas City Royals. This appears to be a routine rest day for the veteran slugger. Stanton has struggled this season, he's slashing .191/.275/.420 with 24 home runs and 60 RBI in 101 games. The expectation is that Stanton will play in the final two games of the regular season. In the meantime, Oswaldo Cabrera will cover right field and bat eighth versus right-hander Jordan Lyles on Friday.

Sep 29 · Source via New York Yankees Giancarlo Stanton

Osvaldo Bido To Start On Friday

Pittsburgh Pirates rookie right-hander Osvaldo Bido will make the start on Friday for the beginning of a series against the Miami Marlins. This will mark Bido's ninth career major-league start, but he won't be a recommended fantasy streamer against a Marlins squad that is fighting for their playoff lives in the final weekend series of the regular season. The 27-year-old Dominican hurler has gone 2-5 with an ugly 6.36 ERA (4.28 FIP), 1.54 WHIP, 20 walks and 44 strikeouts in 46 2/3 innings over his 14 appearances (eight starts). In his eight starts this year, Bido has allowed 23 runs (22 earned) on 35 hits (three homers) while walking 13 and striking out 31 in 32 2/3 frames. Stay away.

Sep 29 · Source via Pittsburgh Pirates Osvaldo Bido

Luis Campusano Starting On The Bench Again

San Diego Padres catcher Luis Campusano will start Friday's game against the Chicago White Sox on the bench for the fourth straight game. In his absence, Brett Sullivan will do the catching and hit seventh against White Sox right-hander Dylan Cease. Campusano isn't believed to be dealing with an injury, and it's a bit odd since he's currently riding a six-game hitting streak in which he's gone 11-for-23 (.478) with a homer, double, five RBI and four runs scored. The Friars technically have not been eliminated from wild-card contention in the National League, either. Campusano is turning 25 years old on Friday and has hit a strong .319 (52-for-163) this year with a career-high seven home runs, 30 RBI and 27 runs scored in 49 games in his fourth MLB season.

Sep 29 · Source via San Diego Padres Luis Campusano

Kris Bryant Still Out Sick

Colorado Rockies outfielder Kris Bryant (illness) remains out of action on Friday with the team taking on the visiting Minnesota Twins. Bryant has been under the weather of late and will now miss his fourth straight game. With just two more regular season games this weekend, we may not see Bryant again in 2023. Elehuris Montero is playing first base and batting cleanup, while Sean Bouchard is making a start in right field and hitting seventh for the Rockies against Twins right-hander Joe Ryan. The 31-year-old Bryant has had yet another disappointing season in his second year in Colorado, hitting .239 (70-for-293) with only 10 home runs, 10 doubles, 31 RBI and 36 runs scored in 327 plate appearances and 78 games in 2023.

Sep 29 · Source via Colorado Rockies Kris Bryant

Yandy Diaz Back Against Blue Jays

Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Diaz (hamstring) is back in action on Friday against the Toronto Blue Jays and left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, serving as the designated hitter and batting leadoff. The Rays held Diaz out as a precaution for the last two games, but he'll be available to start the final series of the regular season on Friday. Fantasy managers still competing for hardware this year need to get the 32-year-old back in their starting lineups. Isaac Paredes is playing first base and batting fifth, while rookie Osleivis Basabe is at the hot corner and hitting in the eight-hole. Diaz is having the best season of his career in his seventh big-league season, slashing .328/.408/.515 with a .923 OPS, 21 home runs, 35 doubles, 76 RBI and 94 runs scored in 135 games.

Sep 29 · Source via Tampa Bay Rays Yandy Diaz

Luis Arraez Remains Out Friday

Miami Marlins second baseman Luis Arraez (ankle) remains out of the starting lineup on Friday against the Pittsburgh Pirates due to a left-ankle sprain that he aggravated over the weekend. Arraez suffered an ankle injury at the worst possible time down the stretch with the Marlins trying to secure the final wild-card spot in the National League, and this will be his fourth straight missed game. Jon Berti will man the keystone on Friday and will hit sixth in the batting order. The Marlins and fantasy managers can only hope that Arraez will be able to return on Saturday. The 26-year-old left-handed hitter still leads the league with a .353 batting average (202-for-573) in 146 games in 2023, adding a career-high 10 home runs, 30 doubles, three triples, 69 RBI, three steals and 71 runs scored.

Sep 29 · Source via Miami Marlins Luis Arraez

Miguel Cabrera To Join Tigers Front Office

Following Sunday's regular season finale, Detroit Tigers designated hitter Miguel Cabrera will become the team's special assistant to the president of baseball operations. Cabrera will officially hang up his cleats and retire after a storied career that will surely lead him to being a first-ballot Hall of Famer. But when he's done putting on a uniform, he'll remain with Detroit and work in their front office. The 40-year-old Venezuelan only has four home runs in his final big-league season, and he's also hitting .254 (82-for-323) with just 33 RBI and 20 runs scored. Miggy is finishing his career off strong, though, going 18-for-60 (.300) with a homer, two doubles, nine RBI and four runs scored in his 16 starts in September.

Sep 29 · Source via Detroit Tigers Miguel Cabrera

Paul Goldschmidt Back In Cardinals Lineup

St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (back) is back at first base and is hitting second on Friday against the visiting Cincinnati Reds and left-hander Brandon Williamson. Goldschmidt didn't play the last two games due to back tightness, but he'll return for the final series of the regular season this weekend. It was a good time for him to take a rest on Thursday, though, as the 36-year-old former MVP has gone hitless in his last three games played. Fantasy managers still playing for a title this weekend will want to get Goldy back in their lineups, though. He's hitting .267/.362/.444 with an .806 OPS, 25 home runs, 79 RBI, 11 stolen bases and 87 runs scored in 588 total at-bats in 2023.

Sep 29 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Paul Goldschmidt

Gunnar Henderson Taking A Seat Friday

Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson will get the day off on Friday against the visiting Boston Red Sox after the team clinched the American League East title on Thursday night. Jorge Mateo will start at the 6 and hit ninth for the O's against Red Sox right-hander Nick Pivetta. Ramon Urias is playing the hot corner and is hitting in the eight-hole. In his first full major-league season, Henderson has really impressed, hitting .257/.326/.492 with an .818 OPS, 28 home runs, 28 doubles, nine triples, 82 RBI, 10 stolen bases and 99 runs scored in 614 trips to the plate over 148 games for the first-place Orioles. The 22-year-old will continue on as the regular shortstop for Baltimore into the postseason next week.

Sep 29 · Source via Prospects Baltimore Orioles Gunnar Henderson

Ryan Noda Homers In Winning Effort

Oakland Athletics rookie first baseman Ryan Noda went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and two strikeouts out of the leadoff spot in the team's 2-1 win over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday. Noda's 16th home run of the year snapped a 1-1 tie in the eighth inning and was the difference-maker in the game. The 27-year-old has reached base safely in each of his last six games, and the long ball was his first since Sept. 11. In 25 games (23 starts) in September, he's gone just 20-for-87 (.230) with four home runs, four doubles, 12 RBI, 42 strikeouts and 14 runs scored for the A's. Noda is up to 16 round-trippers, 54 RBI, three stolen bases and 62 runs scored in his first 395 major-league at-bats in 2023 while hitting .233/.367/.415.

Sep 29 · Source via Oakland Athletics Ryan Noda

Matt Vierling Has Productive Game Thursday

Detroit Tigers outfielder Matt Vierling was productive in the 7-3 win over the visiting Kansas City Royals on Thursday, going 2-for-5 with a triple, two RBI, a run scored and two strikeouts out of the leadoff spot for the Tigers. Vierling has had a penchant for multi-hit games in the month of September, but he's still hitting a mediocre .247 (20-for-81) with two homers, six doubles, a triple, 11 RBI, a stolen base and 18 runs scored in 22 games (21 starts) this month. In his first year in Detroit and third in the big leagues, the 27-year-old is slashing .257/.326/.373 with a career-high nine home runs, 19 doubles, four triples, six stolen bases and 59 runs scored in 517 plate appearances and 131 games.

Sep 29 · Source via Detroit Tigers Matt Vierling

Jack Suwinski Picks Up Two Hits In Win Over Phillies

Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Jack Suwinski went 2-for-4 with an RBI while hitting in the cleanup spot in the 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday. The second-year outfielder hit a wall in the second half of the season for the Pirates, but he's picked things up in September and is hoping to finish on a high note this weekend. The 25-year-old left-handed hitter has batted .295 (23-for-78) with four home runs, three doubles, a triple, 16 RBI, four stolen bases and 12 runs scored in 24 games (22 starts) in the final month of the season. Overall, he's hitting .223/.341/.457 with 26 home runs, 72 RBI, 13 stolen bases and 63 runs scored in 435 at-bats in his second major-league campaign.

Sep 29 · Source via Pittsburgh Pirates Jack Suwinski

Luke Jackson Back From Paternity Leave

The San Francisco Giants reinstated relief pitcher Luke Jackson from the paternity list on Thursday. Jackson wasn't available for the series this week against the San Diego Padres, but he'll be in the team's bullpen for the final series of the regular season against the division-rival Los Angeles Dodgers with nothing on the line for either club. In his first year in the Bay Area, the 32-year-old veteran right-hander has been solid for the Gigantes, going 2-2 with a 2.97 ERA (3.28 FIP), 1.23 WHIP, 15 walks and 43 strikeouts in 33 1/3 relief innings.

Sep 29 · Source via San Francisco Giants Luke Jackson

Edward Cabrera Starting On Friday Against Bucs

Miami Marlins right-hander Edward Cabrera will make the start for the team on Friday in the series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Cabrera will get the nod to kick off a huge three-game series against the Bucs to close out the 2023 regular season as the Fish look to secure the final wild-card spot in the National League over the Chicago Cubs. The 25-year-old Dominican comes into Friday's game with a 7-7 record, 4.22 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 115 strikeouts in 96 innings over 21 outings (19 starts) this year. He hasn't gone more than 5 1/3 innings in four outings in September, but Cabrera has been pretty great with a 1.89 ERA, .167 opponent's average, 11 walks and 22 strikeouts in four appearances (two starts) covering 19 innings in September.

Sep 29 · Source via Miami Marlins Edward Cabrera

Brandon Nimmo's Season Likely Over

New York Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo (shoulder) has an AC joint issue in his right shoulder and will have an MRI exam on Friday to determine if there is "any rotator damage," according to manager Buck Showalter. It sounds like Nimmo will not play in the final series of the 2023 season this weekend. If Nimmo has damage to his rotator cuff and requires surgery, he may not be ready for the start of next season. The 30-year-old left-handed hitter will finish his eighth season in New York with a .274/.363/.466 slash line, an .829 OPS, a career-high 24 home runs, 30 doubles, six triples, career-high 68 RBI, three stolen bases and 89 runs scored in 682 trips to the plate and 152 games.

Sep 29 · Source via New York Mets Brandon Nimmo

J.D. Davis Placed On 10-Day Injured List

The San Francisco Giants placed third baseman J.D. Davis (shoulder) on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to Sept. 27) on Thursday with a left-shoulder strain. Davis injured his shoulder earlier this week during a slide against the San Diego Padres and will now end up missing the rest of the regular season, which concludes this Sunday. In his first full year in San Francisco in 2023, the 30-year-old former Met hit .248/.325/.413 with 18 home runs, 23 doubles, a triple, 69 RBI, one stolen base and 61 runs scored in 144 games and 546 plate appearances. He hit .262 (16-for-61) with three homers, five doubles, nine RBI and 10 runs scored in 20 games (17 starts) in the final month of the season.

Sep 29 · Source via San Francisco Giants J.D. Davis

Byron Buxton Discusses Postseason Availability, Knee Injury

Twins outfielder Byron Buxton has had a difficult year in 2023, struggling to a roughly league average slash line of .207/.294/.438 in just 82 games while being relegated exclusively to DH duties thanks to troubles with his right knee, on which he underwent surgery this past offseason. With Minnesota having punched its ticket to the…

Sep 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Minnesota Twins Byron Buxton Carlos Correa Royce Lewis Michael A. Taylor

Pirates Shut Down Mitch Keller, Roansy Contreras For 2023

Pirates manager Derek Shelton told reporters, including Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, this afternoon that right-handers Mitch Keller and Roansy Contreras would not pitch again this year, as both players have been shut down for the remainder of the 2023 campaign. With the Pirates well outside the playoff picture and just three games remaining…

Sep 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Pittsburgh Pirates Roansy Contreras Mitch Keller

Chris Bassitt Hits 200 Innings For First Time

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Chris Bassitt was magnificent Thursday, tossing 7 shutout innings and earning the win in a 6-0 victory over the New York Yankees. Bassitt allowed five hits and one walk while striking out a season-high 12 batters. The 34-year-old will end the season at exactly 200 innings pitched, a feat he has never accomplished before. It has been a great year for the veteran, who has pitched to a 3.60 ERA and 1.18 WHIP while racking up 186 strikeouts in the aforementioned 200 IP. He will have solid mid-round value next season.

Sep 29 · Source via Toronto Blue Jays Chris Bassitt

Trevor May Keeps Rolling Thursday

Oakland Athletics closer Trevor May picked up his 21st save of the season in Thursday's 2-1 win over the Minnesota Twins. May didn't allow a baserunner and struck out one in his inning of work. The veteran reliever is on a very nice run since June, picking up all 21 of his saves while allowing only 11 runs (eight earned) in 34 IP (2.08 ERA). With May not under contract for 2024, his fantasy value remains up in the air. Should he return to Oakland, he would likely not have much competition for the closer role, meaning he would be draftable as a low-end reliever.

Sep 29 · Source via Closers Oakland Athletics Trevor May

Bryan Shaw Earns Another Save

Chicago White Sox right-handed pitcher Bryan Shaw tossed a perfect ninth inning on Thursday to pick up his fourth save of the season in a 3-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Shaw struck out one. He now has a 4.43 ERA and 1.27 WHIP with 40 strikeouts in 42 IP. The White Sox appear to be mixing and matching in the bullpen, but Shaw has picked up two saves in the last week. For managers in the deep leagues, he may be a nice weekend saves stream for the final few days of the season.

Sep 29 · Source via Closers Chicago White Sox Bryan Shaw

David Bednar Notches 38th Save

Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar picked up the save on Thursday, finishing off a 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. Bednar allowed just a walk and struck out two in his inning of work. The 28-year-old has been excellent for the Pirates this season, pitching to a 2.04 ERA and 1.12 WHIP with 78 strikeouts in 66 IP. He has converted 38 of his 41 save opportunities. Bednar will likely be back with the Buccos next year in the same role, giving him plenty of value. He should be drafted among the elite relief options.

Sep 29 · Source via Closers Pittsburgh Pirates David Bednar

Tyler Wells Picks Up Crucial Save

Baltimore Orioles right-handed pitcher Tyler Wells picked up his first save of the season on Thursday, finishing off a 2-0 shutout victory over the Boston Red Sox. Wells pitched a perfect frame without striking out a batter. The 29-year-old had been used as a starter through July, but was shut down after innings concerns arose while he appeared to be fading. He returned in late September as a reliever and appears to have the trust of manager Brandon Hyde, who used Wells to close out their division-clinching game tonight. He will likely hold a high-leverage relief role in the playoffs but should return to his starting job next year, giving him some fantasy value later in drafts.

Sep 29 · Source via Closers Baltimore Orioles Tyler Wells

Raisel Iglesias Slams Door On Cubs

Atlanta Braves closer Raisel Iglesias converted his 32nd save of the season on Thursday, closing out a 5-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs. Iglesias pitched a perfect inning, striking out one in the process. After a rough patch in early September where he allowed six runs (three earned) in five IP and blew two saves, the fireballer has turned things around with three straight converted saves. The 33-year-old will be in a great situation on this same stacked Braves team next year and should be drafted highly among relievers.

Sep 29 · Source via Closers Atlanta Braves Raisel Iglesias

Jeff McNeil Diagnosed With Partially Torn UCL; Surgery Not Expected

Mets second baseman Jeff McNeil was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left elbow sprain earlier today, with infielder Danny Mendick replacing the 31-year-old on the active roster. McNeil subsequently revealed to reporters (including Tim Healey of Newsday) that the injury is actually a partially torn UCL. While UCL damage is always an…

Sep 28 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Mets Jeff McNeil

Mickey Moniak Back From Injured List

The Los Angeles Angels reinstated outfielder Mickey Moniak (back) from the 10-day injured list on Thursday and optioned left-hander Kolton Ingram and infielder Jared Walsh to Triple-A Salt Lake after Wednesday's game. The Angels also reinstated right-hander Chase Silseth (concussion) from the seven-day injured list. Moniak will return for the first time since Sept. 5 with left-back tightness. The 25-year-old should see regular starts in the final three games of the regular season this weekend for the Halos. The former first overall pick of the 2016 draft has had by far the best season of his MLB career in Anaheim in 2023, hitting .280/.307/.490 with 13 home runs, 21 doubles, two triples, 43 RBI, six stolen bases and 33 runs scored in 83 games.

Sep 28 · Source via Los Angeles Angels Mickey Moniak

Keaton Winn To Start On Friday

San Francisco Giants rookie right-hander Keaton Winn (illness) will make his final start of the year on Friday against the division-rival Los Angeles Dodgers. He will be making his return for the first time since being placed on the COVID list on Sept. 19, so he'll be a risky fantasy streamer for anyone still playing for something in the final weekend of the regular season. The 25-year-old rookie has held his own, though, in his first eight big-league appearances (four starts), posting a 3.89 ERA (3.66 FIP), 1.03 WHIP, only eight walks and 30 strikeouts in 37 innings pitched. Winn has some interesting long-term upside for San Francisco, but he also hasn't thrown more than 80 pitches in any of his outings for the Giants this year.

Sep 28 · Source via Prospects San Francisco Giants Keaton Winn

Tanner Scott Back From Paternity List

Miami Marlins left-handed reliever Tanner Scott was reinstated from the paternity list in time for Thursday's game against the New York Mets. The Marlins optioned left-hander Enmanuel De Jesus to the minors in a corresponding move. Scott only ended up missing the team's doubleheader on Wednesday and will now be back for potential save chances the rest of the week as the Marlins look to secure the final wild-card spot in the National League. The 29-year-old southpaw should return to primary closing duties for the Fish. In his second year with the team, Scott has a 2.38 ERA (2.21 FIP), 1.02 WHIP, 10 saves, 24 walks and a career-high 101 strikeouts in 75 2/3 relief innings. He has 30 saves in the last two years in Miami.

Sep 28 · Source via Closers Miami Marlins Tanner Scott

Mitch Keller Won't Start Sunday

Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Mitch Keller will not make his final start of the season on Sunday against the Miami Marlins. The Pirates aren't playing for anything and Keller has already thrown a career-high 194 1/3 innings in his fifth major-league season. The 27-year-old made the All-Star team for the first time in his career in 2023 and finishes with a 13-9 record, 4.21 ERA (3.80 FIP), 1.24 WHIP, 55 walks and a career-high 210 strikeouts in his 32 starts. Keller wasn't as sharp in the second half of the season, though, posting a 5.59 ERA with 21 walks and 81 strikeouts in 77 1/3 innings over 13 starts after the All-Star break.

Sep 28 · Source via Pittsburgh Pirates Mitch Keller

Logan Webb Won't Make Another Start, Kyle Harrison To Pitch Sunday

San Francisco Giants right-hander Logan Webb will no longer start the season finale on Sunday against the division-rival Los Angeles Dodgers. The Giants were considering giving him one more start to try and chase down Padres left-hander Blake Snell in the National League Cy Young race. Instead, left-handed rookie Kyle Harrison (illness) is lined up to face the Dodgers on Sunday. The 26-year-old Webb was solid again in 2023 with a 3.25 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 194 strikeouts in 216 innings over 33 starts for the Gigantes. Harrison was scratched due to an illness on Tuesday against the Padres, but he's feeling better now and will make one more start this year. The 22-year-old southpaw has struggled in his first six major-league starts, posting a 4.85 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, nine walks and 31 strikeouts in 29 2/3 frames.

Sep 28 · Source via Prospects San Francisco Giants Kyle Harrison Logan Webb

Jeff McNeil Has Partial UCL Tear

New York Mets infielder/outfielder Jeff McNeil (elbow) said he will receive a platelet-rich plasma injection to help the partial tear of the UCL in his left elbow. McNeil was placed on the 10-day injured list on Thursday, which will end his 2023 season. He and the Mets aren't considering surgery right now, and manager Buck Showalter should be good to go for spring training next year. The 31-year-old's health is one to watch over the winter, and if his injection doesn't fix the issue, he could eventually require surgery that could keep him out for the majority of the 2024 campaign. The two-time All-Star finishes his sixth year with the Mets by hitting .270 (158-for-585) with 10 home runs, 25 doubles, four triples, 55 RBI, a career-high 10 stolen bases and 75 runs scored in 156 games played.

Sep 28 · Source via New York Mets Jeff McNeil

Freddy Peralta, Brandon Woodruff Won't Pitch This Weekend

The Milwaukee Brewers will give right-handers Freddy Peralta and Brandon Woodruff some extra rest before the postseason and won't have them pitch in the final series of the regular season this weekend against the Chicago Cubs. Woodruff will throw some live batting practice on Friday as his final tune-up. The Brewers could face the Cubs next week in the wild-card series as well, so they'll keep the Cubs from potentially facing two of their starters twice. Peralta, 27, will finish his 2023 season with a 3.86 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 210 strikeouts in 165 2/3 innings over 30 starts. Woodruff, 30, was even better with a 2.28 ERA, 0.82 WHIP and 74 K's in 67 innings pitched in just 11 starts due to injury.

Sep 28 · Source via Milwaukee Brewers Freddy Peralta Brandon Woodruff

Kris Bryant Remains On The Bench With Illness

Colorado Rockies designated hitter/first baseman Kris Bryant (illness) is still out of Thursday's lineup for the series finale versus the Los Angeles Dodgers due to an illness. Friday's series opener vs. the Minnesota Twins marks the 31-year-old's next chance to return to the fold from his sickness, which has cost him the previous three meetings. Year 2 of Bryant's lucrative seven-year deal has been underwhelming once again to say the least, slashing .239/.318/.375 with 10 home runs, 10 doubles, and 31 RBI in 327 plate appearances. Elehuris Montero is at the cold corner and hitting fifth while Charlie Blackmon operates as the DH and leads off against lefty swingman Ryan Yarbrough on Thursday.

Sep 28 · Source via Colorado Rockies Kris Bryant

Luis Arraez Still Out Of Lineup With Sprained Ankle

Miami Marlins second baseman Luis Arraez (ankle) remains out of Thursday's lineup for the series finale against the New York Mets with his sprained left ankle. It's rough timing for the 26-year-old to become hobbled with Miami pursuing the National League Wild Card's final spot, as Arraez has only played in two of the prior seven contests. The 2022 American League batting champion's pursuit for a .400 average may have fizzled long ago, but he's still on pace for his second straight hitting title at an MLB-best .353 BA to go with a career-high .860 OPS, 10 home runs, and 69 RBI. Xavier Edwards is handling the void at the keystone in Arraez's stead on Thursday, batting ninth versus left-hander David Peterson.

Sep 28 · Source via Miami Marlins Luis Arraez

Seth Brown Leaves Thursday's Game Early

Oakland Athletics infielder/outfielder Seth Brown (oblique) was pulled from Thursday's game against the Minnesota Twins with left oblique soreness. He went 0-for-2 before Tyler Soderstrom replaced him as a pinch-hitter in the sixth inning. Brown flashed an interesting blend of power and speed at the first base position a season ago but showed diminished fantasy appeal in the anemic A's lineup during 2023. The 31-year-old is slashing .222/.286/.405 with 14 home runs, 52 RBI, and three stolen bases in 343 at-bats. It's fair to consider Brown day-to-day ahead of Oakland's series finale versus the Los Angeles Angels. Look for Aledmys Diaz and Tony Kemp to help out as corner outfielders while Ryan Noda mostly occupies first base.

Sep 28 · Source via Oakland Athletics Seth Brown

Paul Goldschmidt Has Back Tightness, May Return Friday

St. Louis Cardinals manager Oli Marmol says first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (back), who is out of Thursday's lineup against the Milwaukee Brewers, is dealing with back tightness. The 36-year-old should be deemed day-to-day ahead of the final weekend set of the year versus the division-rival Cincinnati Reds, but fantasy managers should feel pretty good about Goldschmidt returning as soon as Friday. "We want to make sure he's good to play when we get back home in front of our own fans", Marmol also stated. Goldy will look to provide one last hurrah for those relying on him late in fantasy championship week, and the 2022 National League MVP is slashing .267/.362/.444 with 25 home runs, 79 RBI, and 11 stolen bases overall.

Sep 28 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Paul Goldschmidt

Jeff McNeil Closes Year On Injured List

The New York Mets put infielder/outfielder Jeff McNeil (elbow), who is out of Thursday's lineup versus the Miami Marlins, on the 10-day injured list due to a left elbow sprain. After winning the National League batting title a year ago, the 31-year-old turned in quite a disappointing follow-up season overall. McNeil looked like his 2022 self from Aug. 5 on, however, hitting .311 with an .842 OPS, seven home runs, nine doubles, and 21 RBI in 190 at-bats, but it was too little too late for New York's lost campaign. The two-time All-Star hopes his second-half success carries into 2024 as one of New York's primary table-setters. Rookie Ronny Mauricio should have second base all to himself in the final four games of 2023 while Rafael Ortega and Tim Locastro fill the gap in left field.

Sep 28 · Source via New York Mets Jeff McNeil

Blue Jays' Jay Jackson Will Be A Free Agent This Winter

Due to particular language in the MLB contract he signed with the Blue Jays prior to Opening Day, Jay Jackson will be a free agent this winter despite lacking the regulation six years of big league service time, Jays Journal’s Eric Treuden writes.  This isn’t the first time Jackson has pursued this route, as Treuden…

Sep 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Toronto Blue Jays Jay Jackson

Chris Bassitt Tries To Aid Playoff Push In Final Start

The Toronto Blue Jays will try to hang on to an American League wild-card spot while starting pitcher Chris Bassitt takes the mound on Thursday versus the division-rival New York Yankees. The 34-year-old also aims for his 16th win of the campaign during his final start of 2023 and tie Zach Eflin as the AL leader in this category. Bassitt should have a good chance to do so against a Yankees club that he boasts a 1.38 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, and 14:3 K:BB over 13 career innings since 2021. The right-hander has kept the contact light when opposing the current New York roster, giving up only one extra-base hit in 50 plate appearances. Bassitt should remain deployed across all fantasy formats during championship week.

Sep 28 · Source via Toronto Blue Jays Chris Bassitt

Zack Wheeler Looks To Put A Bow On Another Strong Year

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Zack Wheeler hopes to create some momentum heading into the postseason during Thursday's start versus the crosstown-rival Pittsburgh Pirates. The 33-year-old stalwart brings a 3.64 ERA, 1.07 ERA, and 207:38 K:BB across 188 innings into this favorable spot and his season finale. Not only has Wheeler dominated Pittsburgh for a 4-0 record, 2.13 ERA, and 0.95 WHIP in 38 career innings, but the current Pirates roster is a combined 3-for-31 against him. The All-Star right-hander represents one of the slate's most confident season-long starts, especially considering Wheeler's historical success opposing the Bucs.

Sep 28 · Source via Philadelphia Phillies Zack Wheeler

Brewers Designate Brian Anderson, Reinstate Garrett Mitchell From 60-Day Injured List

The Brewers announced that outfielder Garrett Mitchell has been activated from the 60-day injured list.  In the corresponding move, third baseman/outfielder Brian Anderson was designated for assignment. Mitchell’s official return to the active roster has been expected for a couple of days, after he rejoined the Brewers upon the completion of the Triple-A season.  The…

Sep 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Milwaukee Brewers Brian Anderson Garrett Mitchell

Chris Martin Placed On Injured List

The Boston Red Sox placed right-hander Chris Martin (illness) on the 15-day injured list on Thursday with a viral infection and recalled pitcher Nick Robertson from Triple-A Worcester in a corresponding move. Martin will not be available to finish out the rest of the 2023 regular season this weekend for Boston. The 37-year-old veteran closes out a very impressive year working out of the bullpen, as he finishes with a 1.05 ERA (2.44 FIP), 1.03 WHIP, three saves, 23 holds, just eight walks and 46 strikeouts in 51 1/3 innings in 55 relief appearances in his first year with the team.

Sep 28 · Source via Closers Boston Red Sox Chris Martin

Justin Turner Getting A Breather Thursday

Boston Red Sox infielder/designated hitter Justin Turner is taking the day off on Thursday against the Baltimore Orioles. Turner will take a seat in Baltimore after starting each of the team's last seven games. Masataka Yoshida is serving as the designated hitter and batting third, while Bobby Dalbec is at first base and hitting in the eight-hole against Orioles right-hander Dean Kremer. The 38-year-old Turner has had a pretty strong season in his first year in Beantown, slashing .274/.344/.455 with 23 home runs, 96 RBI, four stolen bases and 85 runs scored in 547 at-bats. He's tailed off considerably in the final month of the season, though, going 17-for-84 (.202) with only one homer, three doubles, nine RBI, 23 strikeouts and seven runs scored in 22 starts in September.

Sep 28 · Source via Boston Red Sox Justin Turner

Offseason Outlook: Pittsburgh Pirates

In conjunction with this installment in our Offseason Outlook series, Steve Adams will be hosting a Pirates-centric chat today at 1pm CT. Click here to ask a question in advance, and be sure to check back to participate live! The Pirates’ blistering start to the season gave way to another year of losing baseball and deadline…

Sep 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Pittsburgh Pirates Miguel Andujar Ji Hwan Bae David Bednar Ryan Borucki JT Brubaker Roansy Contreras Oneil Cruz Henry Davis Jason Delay Bailey Falter Jarlin Garcia Nick Gonzales Thomas Hatch Colin Holderman Connor Joe Termarr Johnson Jared Jones Mitch Keller Andrew McCutchen Carmen Mlodzinski Dauri Moreta Luis Ortiz Johan Oviedo Liover Peguero Quinn Priester Bryan Reynolds Alfonso Rivas Endy Rodriguez Paul Skenes Anthony Solometo Jack Suwinski Jared Triolo Vince Velasquez

Garrett Mitchell Reinstated, Brian Anderson DFA'd

The Milwaukee Brewers reinstated outfielder Garrett Mitchell (shoulder) from the 60-day injured list on Thursday and designated infielder/outfielder Brian Anderson for assignment in a corresponding move. Mitchell is starting in center field and batting ninth on Thursday against St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Dakota Hudson. Mitchell has been out since April 18 due to a shoulder injury that he had surgery on, so fantasy managers can't really expect much through the end of the regular season on Sunday. But the 25-year-old gives Milwaukee another outfield option as they get ready for the playoffs. Anderson had seen his playing time dip dramatically recently and was hitting only .226/.310/.368 on the season with nine home runs and 40 RBI in 318 at-bats.

Sep 28 · Source via Milwaukee Brewers Brian Anderson Garrett Mitchell

Miguel Cabrera just wants to put the ball in play one more time

Inside the legend and legacy of the Detroit Tigers great as his Hall of Fame career culminates in one final at-bat.

Sep 28 · ESPN Detroit Tigers Miguel Cabrera

Brewers' Colin Rea Will Be A Free Agent This Winter

After signing a minor league deal with the Brewers last winter, Colin Rea ended up pitching 119 2/3 innings at the big league level, starting 21 of his 25 games.  The right-hander will now look to build off that resume on the open market, as MLB Trade Rumors’ Steve Adams (via X) reports that Rea’s…

Sep 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Milwaukee Brewers Colin Rea

Dean Kremer Looking To Clinch AL East Thursday

Baltimore Orioles right-hander Dean Kremer will look to pitch his club to an American League East title on Thursday when he takes the mound at home against the Boston Red Sox. With a win and a Rays loss on Thursday, the Orioles would win their first division title since the 2014 season. For his part, Kremer will enter Thursday's contest sporting a 4.25 ERA across 31 starts on the season but he also owns a 4.63 FIP and a 4.52 SIERA which suggest he has been a bit lucky this season. The 27-year-old lasted just 3 1/3 innings his last time out, allowing six runs (three earned) on seven hits and a pair of walks against the Guardians. However, he also allowed one earned run or fewer in four of his previous five starts prior to his sloppy outing his last time out.

Sep 28 · Source via Baltimore Orioles Dean Kremer

Cedric Mullins Sitting Versus Lefty Thursday

Baltimore Orioles outfielder Cedric Mullins is out of the starting lineup Thursday versus the Boston Red Sox and left-hander Chris Sale. The 28-year-old started against a left-hander in the Nationals' Patrick Corbin on Wednesday and doubled while scoring a run and striking out twice in his club's 5-1 victory. Although Mullins' splits aren't terribly worse against left-handed pitching this season, it's an opportunity for the Orioles to get him off his feet against a pitcher who has been one of the tougher left-handers in the game over his career. For the season, the outfielder is hitting .238 with 15 home runs and 19 stolen bases in 112 games while making multiple trips to the injured list with groin issues.

Sep 28 · Source via Baltimore Orioles Cedric Mullins

Bryson Stott Sitting On Thursday

Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Bryson Stott is out of the starting lineup Thursday versus the Pittsburgh Pirates and right-hander Luis L. Ortiz. While the Phillies gave several regulars a breather on Wednesday following a playoff-clinching win on Tuesday, Stott hit leadoff and went 0-for-4 with a strikeout Wednesday evening. He will get his rare breather on Thursday as he's hitting .279 with 15 home runs, 31 stolen bases, and a .745 OPS across 631 plate appearances on the season. However, Stott is also hitting just .249 with a .722 OPS since the All-Star break after hitting .301 with a .760 OPS in the season's first half. Edmundo Sosa will take over at second base and hit eighth versus Ortiz on Thursday in Philadelphia.

Sep 28 · Source via Philadelphia Phillies Bryson Stott

Kyle Schwarber Among Several Phillies Regulars Returning Thursday

Philadelphia Phillies outfielder/designated hitter Kyle Schwarber is among a host of Phillies regulars to get back into the starting lineup Thursday after the club rested several regulars Wednesday following a playoff-clinching victory on Tuesday. Schwarber joins Trea Turner, Alex Bohm, J.T. Realmuto, and Nick Castellanos as everyday players back in action on Thursday versus Pirates right-hander Luis L. Ortiz. The veteran has put forth one of the more unique seasons in MLB history in 2023, hitting just .196 but also launching 45 home runs, nearly matching his 47 singles on the campaign. He still boasts a big-time 17.6% BB%, .812 OPS, and a 118 wRC+ across his 156 appearances on the season.

Sep 28 · Source via Philadelphia Phillies Kyle Schwarber

Paul Goldschmidt Sitting Again On Thursday

St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Paul Goldschmidt is once again sitting out of the starting lineup Thursday versus the Milwaukee Brewers and right-hander Corbin Burnes. The 2022 NL MVP did not take part in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to the Brewers and will be on the bench again Thursday, although a specific reason for his absence has not been released. Of course, the Cardinals could be opting to give young players playing time in the final week of a wildly disappointing season that has them sitting in last place in the NL Central at 69-89. For the season, Goldschmidt has hit .267 with 25 home runs, 11 stolen bases, and an .806 OPS across 152 games played.

Sep 28 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Paul Goldschmidt

Christian Yelich Re-Enters Starting Lineup Thursday

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich is back in the starting lineup Thursday afternoon versus the St. Louis Cardinals and right-hander Dakota Hudson. Yelich did not appear in Wednesday's narrow 3-2 win over the Cardinals but will return to his familiar leadoff spot while manning left field on Thursday. The 31-year-old is enjoying his best season since his NL MVP runner-up season in 2019 here in 2023, hitting .275 with 19 home runs, 27 stolen bases, and an .810 OPS across 141 appearances on the campaign. His matchup on Thursday is a solid one as he has hit .291 with an .874 OPS versus right-handed pitching while Hudson has allowed a .299 average and an .817 OPS to left-handed hitters this season.

Sep 28 · Source via Milwaukee Brewers Christian Yelich

Pablo Lopez To Start Game 1 Of Wild-Card Series

Minnesota Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said the team will use right-hander Pablo Lopez for Game 1 of the wild-card series next week, with right-hander Sonny Gray getting the ball in Game 2. The Twins' opponent hasn't been finalized, but it's likely to be one of either the Toronto Blue Jays, Houston Astros or Seattle Mariners. Lopez has been solid for the Twins all year, going 11-8 with a 3.66 ERA (3.33 FIP), 1.15 WHIP, 48 walks and a career-high 234 strikeouts in 32 starts covering a career-high 194 innings pitched in his first year in Minnesota as a first-time All-Star. The 27-year-old has posted a 3.68 ERA with 38 strikeouts and only five walks in his five starts (29 1/3 frames) down the stretch in five September starts.

Sep 28 · Source via Minnesota Twins Pablo Lopez

Carlos Correa Won't Travel To Colorado

Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa (foot) is feeling better but will not travel with the team to Colorado for the final series of the regular season this weekend against the Rockies. Correa will work out at Target Field with the group that will stay back before the postseason starts next week, according to manager Rocco Baldelli. The 29-year-old has been battling plantar fasciitis for most of the year and will rest up for the playoffs, so fantasy managers will officially not have Correa for the final four games of the regular season, and it remains to be seen how effective he'll be for Minnesota once the postseason starts. Correa will finish his second season for the Twins with a disappointing .230/.312/.399 slash line, 18 home runs, 29 doubles, two triples, 65 RBI and 60 runs scored in 135 games (580 plate appearances).

Sep 28 · Source via Minnesota Twins Carlos Correa

Bryce Jarvis Serving As Opener For Arizona

Arizona Diamondbacks rookie right-hander Bryce Jarvis is serving as the opener for the series finale in Chicago against the White Sox on Thursday. It will be Jarvis' first "start" of his career after making nine relief appearances in his first major-league season in 2023. In those nine appearances, the 25-year-old has been solid for the Snakes, posting a 2.45 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and eight strikeouts in 18 1/3 innings. Jarvis made 16 starts on the farm for Triple-A Reno before being called up, but since he's been strictly a reliever since he got to the big leagues, fantasy managers shouldn't expect him to go more than a few innings as the team's opener in this one. The matchup against Chicago is a great one, but those still competing for a fantasy title should look elsewhere.

Sep 28 · Source via Arizona Diamondbacks Bryce Jarvis

Ryan Yarbrough Starting On Thursday Versus Rockies

Los Angeles Dodgers left-hander Ryan Yarbrough will make the start on Thursday against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. It will be Yarbrough's second start for the Dodgers and ninth total in 2023. In 24 appearances (eight starts) for the Dodgers and Kansas City Royals this year, the 31-year-old southpaw has gone 8-6 with a 3.78 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, two saves and 65 strikeouts in 85 2/3 innings pitched. He should be able to provide the Blue with around three or four innings in a solid matchup, albeit at hitter-friendly Coors Field. In his 10 outings for LA since being acquired in a trade from the Royals, he's posted a 3.12 ERA (3.58 FIP), 1.07 WHIP, two saves and 36 K's in 34 2/3 innings of work.

Sep 28 · Source via Los Angeles Dodgers Ryan Yarbrough

Francisco Lindor Explodes In Doubleheader Split With Marlins

New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor had an incredible day on Wednesday in the doubleheader against the visiting Miami Marlins, going a combined 4-for-7 with three home runs, six RBI and two walks in the two games. With the three home runs, Lindor has reached the 30-homer mark for the fourth time in his career and for the first time since 2019, when he was still with the Cleveland Guardians. The 29-year-old All-Star got off to a slow start in 2023, but he's now put up his first 30-homer, 30-stolen base campaign and is four RBI short of reaching 100 RBI for the second straight season with the Mets.

Sep 28 · Source via New York Mets Francisco Lindor

AJ Smith-Shawver Recalled And Starting Thursday

The Atlanta Braves recalled right-handed rookie AJ Smith-Shawver from Triple-A Gwinnett on Thursday and optioned rookie right-hander Darius Vines to Gwinnett in a corresponding move after his start on Wednesday night. Smith-Shawver will make his fifth major-league start on Thursday as the Braves go for the sweep of the Chicago Cubs. In his first five big-league appearances, Smith-Shawver has allowed 13 runs (11 earned) on 17 hits (seven home runs) while walking 10 and striking out 18 in 21 2/3 innings pitched. Walks and homers have been an issue for the 20-year-old, and we wouldn't recommend streaming him in fantasy lineups against a Cubs team fighting for their playoff lives with just four games remaining.

Sep 28 · Source via Prospects Atlanta Braves AJ Smith-Shawver

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Returns For Diamondbacks

Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (shoulder) is in left field and is batting sixth against the Chicago White Sox and right-hander Touki Toussaint on Thursday. Gurriel is right back in there after being scratched from Wednesday's starting lineup due to left-shoulder tightness that he experienced while taking batting practice. The 29-year-old has been a consistent producer all year and will be a boost for an Arizona club trying to secure one of the final two wild-card spots in the National League before the end of the regular season this Sunday. Gurriel is hitting .262 (140-for-535) with 24 homers, 81 RBI, four stolen bases and 65 runs scored on the year and should be returned to fantasy lineups in a good matchup on Thursday.

Sep 28 · Source via Arizona Diamondbacks Lourdes Gurriel

Jorge Polanco Not Playing Thursday

Minnesota Twins second baseman Jorge Polanco is getting the day off on Thursday against the visiting Oakland Athletics. With Polanco starting on the bench, Donovan Solano will man the keystone and will hit third in the order against A's right-hander Luis Medina. Willi Castro is starting at third base and is hitting in the two-hole for the Twins. Due to injuries, Polanco has played in only 78 games for Minnesota this year, and he's hitting .258/.339/.461 with an .800 OPS, 14 home runs, 18 doubles, 48 RBI, four stolen bases and 38 runs scored in 336 trips to the plate. The 30-year-old Dominican switch-hitter has gone 18-for-71 (.254) with four home runs, four doubles, 12 RBI, a stolen base and 14 runs scored in his 18 starts in September.

Sep 28 · Source via Minnesota Twins Jorge Polanco

Kris Bryant Has Been Under The Weather

Colorado Rockies outfielder/first baseman Kris Bryant (illness) has been absent from the lineup of late for the Rockies because he's been sick. Bryant played in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader, but it's the only time he's been in the lineup in the last four contests for Colorado. Since returning from a long stint on the injured list on Sept. 11, Bryant has gone just 9-for-50 (.180) with two home runs, three doubles, eight RBI, 17 strikeouts and nine runs scored in 13 games (12 starts). The 31-year-old former Rookie of the Year and MVP has rarely been healthy since signing with the Rockies before the 2022 season and has hit .239 (70-for-293) with 10 homers, 31 RBI and 36 runs scored in only 78 games in 2023.

Sep 28 · Source via Colorado Rockies Kris Bryant

Royce Lewis, Byron Buxton Take Part In Sim Game

Minnesota Twins infielder Royce Lewis (hamstring) and outfielder/designated hitter Byron Buxton (knee) took part in simulated game action at Target Field on Wednesday. Lewis hit a home run. Neither Lewis nor Buxton are going to help fantasy managers from here on out, but the Twins could get them both back for the playoffs. Lewis suffered mild left-hamstring strain last Tuesday and is eligible to come off the injured list on Sunday, the final day of the regular season. The 24-year-old has missed plenty of time with injuries in 2023, but when he's been on the field, he's been great, and the Twins would love to have his bat in the lineup for the postseason. Buxton suffered a setback with patellar tendinitis in his right knee in early September while on a minor-league rehab assignment. The 29-year-old hasn't really been healthy all year and may not be on Minnesota's playoff roster.

Sep 27 · Source via Prospects Minnesota Twins Byron Buxton Royce Lewis

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Could Return Thursday

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said that outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (shoulder) was scratched from Wednesday's win over the Chicago White Sox after feeling tightness in his left shoulder while taking batting practice. Gurriel said after Wednesday's game that he was feeling much better and he could return to the series finale on Thursday in Chicago. The 29-year-old's injury isn't too serious, the D-backs may only be without him for one game as they try to secure one of the final wild-card spots in the National League in the final week of the regular season. In his first season in the desert, Gurriel has been very valuable to the Snakes and fantasy managers, slashing .262/.311/.467 with a career-high 24 home runs, 34 doubles, two triples, 81 RBI, four stolen bases and 65 runs scored in 141 games.

Sep 27 · Source via Arizona Diamondbacks Lourdes Gurriel

Aaron Nola Won't Pitch Again In Regular Season

Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Aaron Nola won't pitch again in the 2023 regular season, with his next start coming in Game 2 of the wild-card series a week from Wednesday. Right-hander Zack Wheeler will get the nod in Game 1. The team's Game 3 starter will depend on how the first two games of the series go, according to manager Rob Thomson. It will most likely be left-hander Ranger Suarez for Game 3, unless the Phillies need him out of the bullpen before then. The Phillies are locked into the top wild-card spot and will give Nola some extra rest before the start of the postseason. Nola struck out 200-plus batters for the fifth time in his career in 2023, but he also had a 4.46 ERA (4.03 FIP) and 1.15 WHIP in 193 2/3 innings over his 32 starts.

Sep 27 · Source via Philadelphia Phillies Aaron Nola

Ronald Acuna Jr. Swipes 70th Bag Wednesday

Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. stole his 70th base of the season as part of Wednesday night's 6-5 extra-innings win over the visiting Chicago Cubs. The favorite to win the National League Most Valuable Player Award continued his historic season in which he has also slugged 41 home runs while also leading the big leagues with a hefty 146 runs scored on the campaign. Acuna swiped second base twice on the evening and also went 2-for-5 with an RBI and a pair of runs scored. Following yet another impressive outing, Acuna is now hitting .336 with a 1.010 OPS across 155 games on the season while aiming for his first career NL MVP.

Sep 27 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ronald Acuna

Angels Select Kelvin Caceres

The Angels have selected the contract of right-hander Kelvin Caceres, per a team announcement. In corresponding moves, left-hander Aaron Loup has been transferred to the 60-day IL while right-hander Jose Marte was optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake. Caceres, 23, began the 2023 campaign at High-A before quickly advancing to Double-A and then Triple-A by the…

Sep 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Los Angeles Angels Kelvin Caceres Aaron Loup Jose Marte

Gerrit Cole Dominates AL East Rival Wednesday

New York Yankees right-hander Gerrit Cole was absolutely dominant in a complete-game shutout over the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday night. The AL Cy Young favorite tossed nine innings of shutout ball while allowing just two hits and zero walks alongside five strikeouts. With the outing, the 33-year-old lowered his ERA to 2.63 across his 33 starts on the season, 15 of which have put him in the win column. He managed to put a dent into the Blue Jays' playoff chances in the process as he has now tossed an eye-popping 28 2/3 innings of scoreless baseball against the Blue Jays this season across four starts. Cole should be able to cruise to his first career Cy Young Award in 2023.

Sep 27 · Source via New York Yankees Gerrit Cole

Tyler Glasnow Stifles Red Sox Wednesday

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Tyler Glasnow was on his game Wednesday against the Boston Red Sox as he kept his club's AL East hopes alive as part of a 5-0 shutout win. The right-hander lasted only five innings but allowed just two hits and one walk while striking out nine Red Sox hitters across 70 pitches thrown on the evening, 45 of which went for strikes. Glasnow lowered his ERA to 3.53 in the outing while he has punched out 162 hitters across his 120 innings of work, leading him to a healthy 1.08 WHIP on the campaign. Glasnow appears lined up to start the first game of the club's postseason, which will come on extended rest. The Rays still trail the Baltimore Orioles by 2.5 games for the stop spot in the AL East with four games to go.

Sep 27 · Source via Tampa Bay Rays Tyler Glasnow

Cubs Activate Jeimer Candelario From 10-Day Injured List

The Cubs announced this afternoon that infielder Jeimer Candelario has been activated from the 10-day injured list. Infielder Jared Young was optioned to Triple-A Iowa in a corresponding move. The return of Candelario, 29, should provide the Cubs with a boost for the final five games of the 2023 regular season, all of which could…

Sep 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago Cubs Jeimer Candelario Jared Young

Brandon Pfaadt Delivers In Key Spot For D-backs Wednesday

Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Pfaadt was on his game when his club needed him on Wednesday in a key 3-0 win over the hosting Chicago White Sox. The D-backs are in a four-way dogfight for the final two Wild Card spots in the National League alongside the Cubs, Marlins, and Reds but the young right-hander delivered on Wednesday. Pfaadt tossed 5 2/3 innings of shutout ball while allowing five hits and zero walks against eight strikeouts on the evening, earning his third big-league win in the process. It's been a rocky debut season for the 24-year-old who lowered his season-long ERA to 5.72 following Wednesday's outing, although he entered the night sporting a far superior 4.41 SIERA, which suggests he has been much better than his surface ERA indicates.

Sep 27 · Source via Prospects Arizona Diamondbacks Brandon Pfaadt

Max Scherzer Throws Light Bullpen

Texas Rangers right-hander Max Scherzer (shoulder) threw a light bullpen session on Wednesday and will see how he feels on Thursday. Scherzer and the Rangers aren't putting a timeline on his potential return after he was diagnosed with a low-grade strain of the teres-major muscle in his right shoulder two weeks ago, although he was expected to miss anywhere from eight to 12 weeks. The 39-year-old future Hall of Famer is making progress, but he still has a ways to go before he's ready to start facing live hitters again. The Rangers are going to need to make a deep playoff run for Scherzer to have a chance at rejoining their starting rotation.

Sep 27 · Source via Texas Rangers Max Scherzer

Nationals, Ildemaro Vargas Avoid Arbitration

The Nationals have agreed to a contract with Ildemaro Vargas for the 2024 season, the team announced this afternoon. Financial details of the contract have not yet been made available. The deal will offer Vargas, who was set to be arbitration eligible this offseason, some security regarding his place in the organization headed into next…

Sep 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Washington Nationals Ildemaro Vargas

Mets Shut Starling Marte Down For The Season

Starling Marte has officially been shut down for the season, Mets manager Buck Showalter announced to reporters (including Anthony DiComo of MLB.com). The outfielder has been on the injured list with a groin strain since early August. Up until this point, Marte was holding out hope he could return before the end of the year. However,…

Sep 27 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Mets Starling Marte

Corey Seager To Play On Wednesday

Texas Rangers shortstop Corey Seager (forearm) is in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Angels. This is great news after Seager was hit by a pitch in the forearm on Tuesday. Luckily, the X-rays came back negative, so it appears Seager has avoided serious injury. The 29-year-old will bat second and cover shortstop versus right-hander Griffin Canning on Wednesday. Fantasy managers can get Seager back in their lineups here.

Sep 27 · Source via Texas Rangers Corey Seager

Michael Brantley Returning To The Lineup

Houston Astros outfielder Michael Brantley (shoulder) is back in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Seattle Mariners. Brantley will make his return to the lineup after missing nine of the last 10 games due to a right shoulder soreness. The veteran outfielder has been available off the bench over the last few days, but will officially be back in the lineup for the first time on Wednesday. He'll cover left field and bat sixth versus right-hander Bryce Miller.

Sep 27 · Source via Houston Astros Michael Brantley

White Sox GM Chris Getz Discusses Tim Anderson's Future

It’s been a rough year for Tim Anderson. After back-to-back All-Star campaigns in 2021 and ’22, the shortstop has floundered at the plate in 2023, slashing a meager .248/.290/.300 with just a single home run. By wRC+, he has been the second-worst qualified hitter in baseball, trailing only Javier Báez. Moreover, unlike Báez, Anderson is…

Sep 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Tim Anderson

Chas McCormick Out Of The Lineup On Wednesday

Houston Astros outfielder Chas McCormick (back) is out of the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Seattle Mariners. This doesn't come as a shock after McCormick was lifted early during Tuesday's game after getting hit by a pitch in the back. This sounds like a day-to-day issue, so hopefully McCormick can avoid a trip to the injured list. In the meantime, Mauricio Dubon will cover center field and bat seventh versus right-hander Bryce Miller during Wednesday's game.

Sep 27 · Source via Houston Astros Mauricio Dubon Chas McCormick

Christopher Morel Sitting Out On Wednesday

Chicago Cubs infielder Christopher Morel is out of the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Atlanta Braves. The 24-year-old will hit the bench for what appears to be a routine rest day. Morel is in the middle of a 3-for-26 slump at the plate, so it's not shocking to see the Cubs giving him the day off. Jeimer Candelario (back) will make his return and play first base, while Miles Mastrobuoni covers third base versus right-hander Darius Vines on Wednesday.

Sep 27 · Source via Chicago Cubs Christopher Morel

Jeimer Candelario Activated On Wednesday

Chicago Cubs infielder Jeimer Candelario (back) has been activated from the injured list on Wednesday. This is great news for the Cubs who are desperately trying to hold onto a Wild Card spot. Candelario has been out of the lineup since mid-September due to a lower back strain. He'll return on Wednesday, while Christopher Morel hits the bench. Candelario will cover first base and bat seventh versus right-hander Darius Vines on Wednesday.

Sep 27 · Source via Chicago Cubs Jeimer Candelario

Carlos Correa Plays In Simulated Game

Minnesota Twins shortstop Carlos Correa (foot) was able to play in a simulated game on Wednesday. Correa was able to take part in this session alongside teammates Royce Lewis (hamstring) and Byron Buxton (hamstring) who are also rehabbing injuries. Between that trio, it sounds like Correa is the closest to getting back on the field. Twins' manager Rocco Baldelli recently said that he hopes Correa is available for the upcoming weekend series versus the Colorado Rockies. Regardless, it sounds like Correa should be ready in time for the postseason.

Sep 27 · Source via Minnesota Twins Carlos Correa

Nolan Schanuel Remains Absent On Wednesday

Los Angeles Angels first baseman Nolan Schanuel (knee) remains out of the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Texas Rangers. The 21-year-old was forced to exit early on Monday after getting hit by a pitch in the knee. Schanuel will now miss his second game in a row because of the injury. For now, Schanuel should be considered as day-to-day. Brandon Drury will cover first base and bat third versus right-hander Dane Dunning on Wednesday.

Sep 27 · Source via Prospects Los Angeles Angels Nolan Schanuel

Diamondbacks Designate Zach Davies For Assignment

The Diamondbacks have designated right-hander Zach Davies for assignment, the team announced. Fellow righty Justin Martinez has been recalled from Triple-A to take his place on the active roster. Davies was a solid back-of-the-rotation starter for Arizona last year, making 27 starts with a 4.09 ERA. That hasn’t been the case this season, as he is…

Sep 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Arizona Diamondbacks Zach Davies Zac Gallen Merrill Kelly Justin Martinez

Adbert Alzolay Throws Live Batting Practice

Chicago Cubs closer Adbert Alzolay (forearm) threw 20 pitches in a live batting practice session to Jeimer Candelario on Wednesday. Alzolay was placed on the injured list in the middle of September with a right-forearm strain, but he's making good progress and could return to the Cubs bullpen before the end of the 2023 regular season this Sunday. The Cubbies are currently in the final wild-card spot in the National League entering play on Wednesday, so they can use all the help they can get to try to get into the postseason. With Alzolay sidelined, the team's last two saves have gone to Julian Merryweather and Jose Cuas, but Alzolay should return to the primary closing role once he's activated.

Sep 27 · Source via Closers Chicago Cubs Adbert Alzolay

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Scratched With Shoulder Discomfort

Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (shoulder) was scratched from Wednesday's starting lineup against the Chicago White Sox with left-shoulder discomfort, according to the team. With Gurriel heading to the bench, Jake McCarthy entered Arizona's lineup in right field and hit seventh against White Sox right-hander Luis Patino. For now, the 29-year-old Gurriel should be considered day-to-day. Check back to see if he's available to play in Thursday's series finale against the White Sox as the D-backs fight for one of the last two wild-card spot in the National League in the final week of the regular season. Gurriel has been a lineup regular for Arizona this year and has contributed a career-high 24 home runs and 81 RBI while hitting .262 (140-for-535) in 141 games.

Sep 27 · Source via Arizona Diamondbacks Lourdes Gurriel

Ryan Mountcastle Back From Injured List

The Baltimore Orioles activated first baseman Ryan Mountcastle (shoulder) from the 10-day injured list on Wednesday and optioned outfielder Ryan McKenna to the minors in a corresponding move. Mountcastle didn't immediately return to Baltimore's starting lineup on Wednesday against the Washington Nationals, but he should make his first start on Thursday for the series opener against the Boston Red Sox. The 26-year-old should return to being the O's regular first baseman this weekend and into the postseason after missing just 10 days with a minor left-shoulder injury. In his fourth big-league season in Baltimore, Mountcastle is hitting .269 (111-for-413) with 18 home runs, 20 doubles, a triple, 67 RBI, three stolen bases and 63 runs scored in 111 games.

Sep 27 · Source via Baltimore Orioles Ryan Mountcastle