

San Francisco Giants catcher Tom Murphy (back) has started doing light rehab activities. Murphy was dealing with back spasms in camp, but an MRI revealed a more serious issue. The veteran backstop is dealing with a middle-back disk herniation. The fact Murphy is only beginning his rehab process means he probably won't be ready to play by Opening Day. Patrick Bailey is expected to basically play everyday, so Sam Huff might end up making the squad as the backup until Murphy is ready to play.



Houston Astros starting pitcher Luis Garcia (elbow) looked sharp during a recent bullpen session on Thursday. Astros' manager Joe Espada said that Garcia is close to facing live hitters, which is great news. Garcia is still working his way back from Tommy John surgery. The Astros are going to take it slow and they've already said Garcia won't be ready for Opening Day. Possibly, Garcia is able to get into some spring training contests, but the Astros are going to wait and see how he progresses. Fantasy managers might have to wait a month or two before getting anything from Garcia.


Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Daulton Varsho (shoulder) is uncertain as to whether he'll ready in time to play on Opening Day. Blue Jays' manager John Schneider hinted earlier in camp that Varsho could spend some time on the injured list to begin the season. Varsho has started throwing up to 120 feet, but the next step is Varsho throwing over 80 mph regularly. It's possible that the Blue Jays carry Varsho on the Opening Day roster just as the designated hitter. He has looked fine as a hitter during spring training, but is still increasing his arm strength. George Springer might start the season in center field if Varsho isn't ready yet.UPDATE: Varsho hit a two-run home run in Friday's Grapefruit League game against the Detroit Tigers.


New York Yankees starting pitcher Luis Gil (shoulder) has been shut down from throwing after feeling discomfort during a recent bullpen session. The team will have Gil undergo an MRI, so there should be a better timetable after that. The right-hander is reportedly feeling tightness in his right shoulder, but fantasy managers shouldn't panic yet. There is a chance that Gil does miss Opening Day, which is a shame considering Gil is expected to be a significant part of the rotation. Marcus Stroman might find his way into the rotation if Gil does miss time.


San Francisco Giants pitcher Keaton Winn (elbow) appears to be a name being discussed as a possible starting rotation option. Winn started 12 games for the Giants last season before suffering a nerve issue in his elbow that ended his season. The right-hander has been throwing in spring training, but hasn't actually played in any contests. Winn posted an ugly 7.12 ERA with a 1.37 WHIP during his 12 starts last season. He wasn't exactly a solid option in the rotation, but it seems like the team is willing to give him another chance. If not, Winn might move into a long relief role or swingman out of the bullpen. Fantasy managers can use a wait-and-see approach here.
