Spring training is winding down across the major leagues, with the exception of the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres and their head start on the regular season in South Korea on Wednesday.
At this point in camp, even minor injuries will put a player in jeopardy for opening day.
Cincinnati Reds second baseman Matt McLain is being evaluated for an injury to his non-throwing shoulder, and manager David Bell said Wednesday all options including surgery were being considered.
Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez was improving but still feeling discomfort Wednesday in his back, manager Torey Lovullo announced. Signed as a free agent this year to bolster a rotation led by Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, Rodriguez was removed from an exhibition game Tuesday after trying to warm up before the second inning.
Chicago Cubs multi-position player Patrick Wisdom was no better Wednesday after being scratched from the lineup the day before because of back trouble, manager Craig Counsell told reporters. The Cubs were waiting on further medical evaluation of Wisdom, who has not played in a week.
There were a few developments that appeared to increase the likelihood of making opening day next week, like at New York Yankees camp where center fielder Aaron Judge was in the posted lineup Wednesday after sitting out nine days with an abdominal injury.
Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Kevin Gausman threw two innings in a simulated game at the team’s player development complex in a clear step forward from shoulder fatigue that bothered him earlier this spring.
“As of right now, it’s more about getting me right and making sure that I’m trending up going into the season as opposed to just monitoring things and getting through things,” Gausman said.
SNELL ARRIVES
Blake Snell joined the San Francisco Giants just nine days before their opener, the day after the two-time Cy Young Award winner finalized a two-year, $62 million contract.
“It took a long time, but we had a good plan and we were committed to it,” Snell said. “It’s tough, but now that I’m here I’m focused on being here.”