Paul Sporer’s Baseball Chat – March 5th, 2025

In the American League, Suárez and Povich are slated as the sixth and seventh starters for the Orioles, while Priester and Fitts are identified as backup starters for the Red Sox by manager Alex Cora. The Royals believe Garcia can excel in centerfield, enhancing team versatility. The Dodgers anticipate a decrease in Ohtani's at-bats and stolen bases due to pitching duties, and Kopech may start the season on the IL. The Giants prioritize Eldridge's defensive...

MLB spring training 2025 is underway, with Opening Day set for March 27 after an overseas series between the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo. The Dodgers are favored to win the World Series, followed by the Yankees, Braves, and Phillies. Fantasy baseball drafts are ongoing, with sleeper picks including the Red Sox, Cubs, and Diamondbacks. Key acquisitions and prospects make these teams potential contenders, with strong pitching rotations and promising lineups. The Red Sox have...

Grayson Rodriguez, a top starter for the Baltimore Orioles, will begin the regular season on the injured list due to an issue near the back of his elbow. He is undergoing tests to determine the extent of the injury. Rodriguez received a cortisone shot and will be shut down for seven to 10 days before starting a throwing program. The 25-year-old pitcher has a history of arm injuries, including shoulder inflammation and a lat strain...

Stu Sternberg, owner of the Tampa Bay Rays, is facing pressure from MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and other owners to sell the team. Potential bidders with Florida ties, including the family of Edward DeBartolo Jr. and former New York Yankees minority owner Joe Molloy, have expressed interest. The Rays have been embroiled in a contentious offseason, with plans for a new stadium in the Gas Plant District causing conflict with local leaders and the team's...

The New York Yankees are facing injury concerns in their starting rotation, with Luis Gil and Gerrit Cole both dealing with injuries. With limited internal options, they may need to explore external solutions. Free-agent starting pitchers available are not very inspiring, so the trade market may be a better option if Cole's absence is long-term. The Padres may be considering trading Cease, a 29-year-old right-hander with a $13.25 million salary, as he enters his final...