As Spring Training gets underway, there are three key developments to watch in the baseball world leading up to the weekend:
1. Padres Camp Opening:
Following the Dodgers’ lead, the San Diego Padres will kick off their Spring Training early to give their players a head start on preparations. This move is in anticipation of the Seoul Series, where the Dodgers and Padres will begin the 2024 regular season with a two-game set in South Korea on March 20. Additionally, with the official opening of camp, the Padres will have access to the 60-day injured list. Currently, they have four open spots on their 40-man roster.
2. Officializing Signings:
The Milwaukee Brewers recently reached an agreement with catcher Gary Sanchez on a one-year deal. This signing will strengthen the team’s catching duo, pairing Sanchez with 2024 All-Star William Contreras. However, before the deal becomes official, the Brewers need to create space on their 40-man roster. This can be achieved by designating a player for assignment or exploring minor trades to free up a roster spot while gaining some value.
Apart from Sanchez’s signing, there are other pending deals across the league. The Tampa Bay Rays’ agreement with Phil Maton, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ new pact with Clayton Kershaw, and the Toronto Blue Jays’ deal with Yariel Rodriguez are yet to be finalized. Each of these signings will require corresponding moves. Visa issues have reportedly delayed Rodriguez’s agreement. The Dodgers can easily make room for Kershaw by placing a player like Tony Gonsolin on the 60-day injured list when necessary. The Rays, on the other hand, have the option to wait until camp opens to officially announce Maton’s deal and make roster adjustments. It is possible that players such as Shane McClanahan, Drew Rasmussen, or Jeffrey Springs may start the season on Tampa Bay’s 60-day injured list due to previous surgeries.
3. Sanchez’s Showcase:
Pitcher Aaron Sanchez, a former All-Star, will be showcasing his skills in a bullpen session for interested teams. After a strong start to his career, Sanchez has faced challenges with injuries, resulting in a decline in performance since 2018. Despite not appearing in the majors last year, he demonstrated his potential during the 2021 season with the San Francisco Giants. Sanchez, who is only 31 years old, could attract attention from teams in need of pitching depth, such as the Padres. However, it is likely that he will receive minor league offers and be limited in his opportunities this spring.
According to the Source mlbtraderumors.com