Los Angeles Angels infielder Michael Stefanic (quad) exited Saturday's Spring Training game with a left quad strain, according to Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register. The 28-year-old came on strong through 25 games with the Halos last year, slashing .290/.380/.355 with a solid 11.3 BB% and equally impressive 11.3 K%. Stefanic isn't regarded as a power hitter, nor is he an above-average defender. However, he has elite contact skills, which were on display in 2023 and put him on the fast track toward a spot on the Opening Day roster spot this year. Also working in his favor is the status of veteran third baseman Anthony Rendon, whose inability to stay healthy in recent years has emphasized the need for infield depth off the bench.

Kansas City Royals reliever Josh Taylor (back) was listed among the team's available pitchers prior to Saturday's Spring Training game. He ultimately entered the game and pitched one inning, allowing two hits but escaping after just five total pitches. All of this is a good sign for the Royals and their left-handed hurler after he underwent season-ending lower back surgery last summer. Taylor struggled to the tune of an 8.15 ERA through limited action last year, but he has a fresh slate now that he's fully healthy heading into 2024.

San Francisco Giants outfielder Heliot Ramos (knee) was removed from Saturday's Spring Training game after being hit by a pitch. His departure from the contest was likely precautionary given that, after the game's conclusion, manager Bob Melvin said Ramos' injury wasn't serious and he should return to the lineup on Sunday. The 24-year-old is regarded as one of the Giants' better young players, but he's struggled to the tune of a .158/.220/.250 slash line, 31.7 K%, and 31 wRC+ through parts of two big-league seasons.

Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (shoulder) threw a bullpen session on Saturday, according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. Verlander hasn't progressed to facing live batters yet, but he is on track and still figures to be ready for Opening Day. The veteran remains a key piece of Houston's entering his age-41 season, just one year removed from a campaign in which he went 13-8 through 27 starts with the Mets and Astros. He was effective at retiring batters once again last year, tallying 7.98 K/9 and 2.49 BB/9 while posting a 3.85 FIP. Barring any sort of injury setback, Verlander continues to be an appealing fantasy baseball option for 2024.

Houston Astros relief pitcher Forrest Whitley (finger) experienced middle finger soreness while warming up for a live bullpen session on Saturday, manager Joe Espada told members of the media, including The Athletic's Chandler Rome. Whitley ultimately skipped his bullpen session and is set to undergo additional evaluation with team doctors. Injuries have put a damper on the young career of Whitley, who was once regarded as a top prospect after being selected in the first round of the 2016 MLB Draft. He posted a solid 9.60 K/9 and 46.8 GB% rate at Triple-A last year but also struggled at times, surrendering 5.10 BB/9 and 1.80 HR/9. Formerly a starter, Whitley is now trying to break camp as a reliever. This latest injury concern adds another obstacle in his long path to the majors.