
Texas Rangers starting pitcher Jacob deGrom (elbow) is scheduled to throw a live batting practice session over the weekend. The expectation is that deGrom will throw a few live BP sessions against hitters before making his spring debut. The right-hander is still ramping up after returning late last season following Tommy John surgery. When healthy, deGrom is one of the best starting pitchers in the league. Sadly, it has been a challenge keeping deGrom on the mound. The expectation is that deGrom will be ready for Opening Day, but he's an extreme risk/reward fantasy selection.

Baltimore Orioles pitcher Roansy Contreras is reportedly going to be stretched out as a starting pitcher this spring. The 25-year-old began his career as a starting pitcher with the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, Contreras transitioned to a bullpen role with the Los Angeles Angels last season. The O's could use the starting pitching depth, but Contreras still has an outside shot at making the starting rotation. There's a chance that he wins a role as a swingman out of the bullpen to begin the season.

Baltimore Orioles infielder Jordan Westburg (back) was able to do some light throwing before Friday's spring training contest. Westburg has missed nearly a week of action due to lower back soreness. Fantasy managers shouldn't be too worried as the Orioles are going to take the cautious approach this early in spring training. O's manager Brandon Hyde said Westburg was feeling better, which bodes well for him returning to the field at some point next week.

Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson (side) won't suit up for any spring training games this weekend. Henderson was pulled after one inning due to left side discomfort during Thursday's game. The young infielder is reportedly still sore, so the Orioles are going to take the cautious approach here. It doesn't sound like the team plans to do any additional imaging. The expectation is that Henderson will be back in the mix next week. Fantasy managers should expect Henderson to be ready in time for Opening Day.


Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida (shoulder) is ready to serve as the designated hitter during spring training. The organization has been bringing him along slowly due to his lingering shoulder issues. It's good news that Yoshida is ready to start swinging the bat during games. However, Yoshida is still early in his throwing program and has only progressed to throwing from 45 feet. The expectation is that Yoshida is going to spend most of his time at DH anyway this season. The Red Sox already have three capable outfielders, so Yoshida is the odd man out right now and could see even fewer at-bats if Rafael Devers (shoulder) moves to more of a permanent DH role in 2025.
