Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena showcased a more efficient batting stance in Monday's live batting practice, per the Athletic's Chandler Rome. The changes include less pre-pitch bat movement and a more subtle front-leg load. Manager Joe Espada expressed his pleasure in Pena's changes, saying he is "hitting the ball in the air more with power". Power was an issue for the 26-year-old last season, as he slashed .263/.324/.381 with 10 home runs, 81 runs scored, 52 RBI, and 13 stolen bases. The batting average improvements were welcome and Pena showed he could hit for some power in his rookie season when he hit 22 HR. His fantasy value could take an uptick in 2024 if he can maintain his BA gains while also adjusting to hit for more power.

The Seattle Mariners have already made several moves this offseason but "have discussed the possibility of adding" free-agent third baseman Matt Chapman, per the Seattle Times' Ryan Divish. The 30-year-old had an excellent start to the 2023 season but finished with a .240/.330/.424 slash line and 17 home runs, 66 runs scored, and 54 RBI in 581 plate appearances with the Blue Jays. Even with the down season, Chapman would be both an offensive and defensive upgrade to the team's current options, which include Luis Urias and Josh Rojas. While T-Mobile Park is not great for hitters, it would be a decent landing spot for Chapman from a fantasy perspective given the lineup the team has constructed this offseason.

Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter (hand) was forced to exit early during Sunday's Cactus League matchup against the San Francisco Giants. The 21-year-old was drilled in the left hand by southpaw Kyle Harrison on Sunday. Rangers' manager Bruce Bochy and the team trainer met with Carter at first base. They decided to pull Carter from the game but fantasy managers shouldn't be too worried. It's the beginning of Spring Training so every team is going to be extremely cautious right now. The expectation is that Carter will undergo X-rays but should be back in the lineup within the next few days.

San Diego Padres shortstop Jackson Merrill put together a nice performance during Sunday's game against the Chicago Cubs. Merrill was given the start at designated hitter and batted leadoff during this game. He went 2-for-2 with a double and two RBI in the 7-0 win. The Padres are likely going to move Merrill around quite a bit during Spring Training. Merrill played mostly shortstop at Double-A last season. However, the 20-year-old should get a chance to earn a corner outfield spot in San Diego. Although, there's a good chance Merrill heads to the minors to begin the 2024 season.

Chicago Cubs infielder Michael Busch is scheduled to make his Cactus League debut on Monday. Cubs' manager Craig Counsell mentioned that Busch has been dealing with some shoulder soreness early in camp. That being said, the Cubs have been extra cautious because it's the beginning of spring. The early expectation was that Busch would see regular time at first base this season. However, the Cubs came to an agreement on a three-year deal with Cody Bellinger on Sunday. Busch will most likely end up falling into a bench role to start the 2024 campaign.