
Cincinnati Reds outfielder/infielder Spencer Steer (shoulder) received a cortisone shot on Saturday which will keep him sidelined for a few days. Steer was a late scratch from Saturday's contest who is still dealing with his lingering shoulder injury. Steer was set to begin a throwing program earlier in the week but felt shoulder discomfort. As a result, he has only seen action as a designated hitter during spring training. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status during camp as a further setback could put him in danger of being limited to begin the regular season. Last season across 158 contests, Steer spent time at first base and the outfield and held a .225/.319/.402 line with 20 home runs and 25 stolen bases. If this injury continues to linger, he may have to open the season operating primarily as a designated hitter.


New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (elbow) will open the season on the injured list. Stanton received PRP injections in both of his elbows. He is expected to return to Tampa next week but will face a longer recovery process. Stanton has battled tennis elbow in both arms and recently underwent further testing in New York. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status as the slugger carries an uncertain timetable. However, seeing that he has not participated in any baseball activities suggests he will face an extended absence. Last season, Stanton held a .233/.298/.475 line with 27 home runs. He generated an elite 20.7 percent barrel rate with a 55.3 percent hard-hit rate. However, he held a hefty 31.2 percent strikeout rate. While he is sidelined, fantasy managers should expect several players to serve as the team's designated hitter. Aaron Judge may be given several starts there to keep him healthy. In addition, first baseman Ben Rice could also occupy this role if he has a strong spring.


New York Yankees infielder DJ LeMahieu (calf) suffered a calf injury during Saturday's spring training contest. LeMahieu tweaked a calf muscle during his second at-bat of the afternoon. After the game, manager Aaron Boone noted that the injury is "a little concerning." Fantasy managers should continue monitoring his status, but seeing that the team is concerned could suggest he may be sidelined for a period of time. Last season, the 36-year-old appeared in just 67 contests and held a career-worst .204/.269/.259 slash line. He tallied just two long balls and five doubles. He generated a modest 37.6 percent hard-hit rate but showed a strong eye at the plate, striking out at a 15.6 percent rate. While he is sidelined, Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza will likely see an increase in playing time at the hot corner.


Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Brayan Bello (shoulder) completed a successful bullpen session on Friday. Bello threw approximately 30 pitches at "70 to 75 percent intensity." Fantasy managers should continue to monitor Bello's status as he battled shoulder inflammation throughout camp. Seeing that he has already begun throwing bullpen sessions should put him in a good position to be ready in time for Opening Day. Last season, Bello logged a career-high 162 1/3 innings to the tune of a 4.49 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP. He tallied 153 strikeouts and generated ground balls at a strong 51.3 percent rate. However, he showed weak command of his pitches as he allowed free passes at a high 9.1 percent rate. When healthy, fantasy managers should expect Bello to slot in the middle of the starting rotation.


Cincinnati Reds first baseman/outfielder Spencer Steer (shoulder) could open the season on the injured list. Manager Terry Francona said they are taking "as much time as necessary" to ensure his shoulder is right. Steer has battled a lingering shoulder injury throughout camp. He was scratched from Saturday's lineup and received two cortisone shots. Steer has been primarily deployed as designated hitter as he is still unable to play the field. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status throughout camp as another setback could put him in danger of missing Opening Day. Last season, the 27-year-old saw time primarily at first base and the outfield and held a .225/.319/.402 line with 20 home runs and 25 stolen bases. He held a high 11.0 percent walk rate but generated a low .235 xBA. If he were to miss time at the start of the season, Christian Encarnacion-Strand would see most of the starts at first base and Austin Hays would have a starting role in left field.
