Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal threw two innings of scoreless ball in Wednesday's 5-3 Grapefruit League win over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The southpaw did not allow a hit in the appearance while walking one and striking out a pair of batters. It was an encouraging start for a pitcher with some high expectations coming into 2024. His impressive, albeit somewhat short, 2023 season has pushed his draft stock way up. The former ninth-round MLB draft pick got a late start but finished 7-3 with a 2.80 ERA (2.77 SIERA, 2.28 xERA), 0.90 WHIP, and a 28.4% K-BB% in 15 starts (80 1/3 IP) last season, leading to talk of a possible Cy Young in 2024. His repertoire includes a fastball that can hit 99 mph to go along with a nasty changeup or slider. His NFBC ADP stands at 54th overall, but RotoBaller is higher on the lefty, ranking him at 44th overall. With the upside of an ace, Skubal will make a fine second pitcher on fantasy pitching staffs.

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto made his much-anticipated spring debut on Wednesday in a 6-4 Cactus League loss to the Texas Rangers. The loss was not in any way attributable to Yamamoto's performance, however, as he tossed two scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and no walks while striking out three. In all, the righty threw 19 pitches, 16 of which went for strikes, and he utilized his fastball, curveball, and splitter with resounding success. If it wasn't already, it is now apparent why he was able to win three consecutive Sawamura Awards (NPB equivalent to the Cy Young), and fantasy managers who invested in him have some reassurance in their selection. Currently going off draft boards at 53rd overall (11th starting pitcher), his ADP may creep higher towards RotoBaller's bullish rank of 41st overall (10th starting pitcher) after this strong debut.

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitching prospect Ricky Tiedemann (left hamstring, calf) played catch as part of his recovery on Wednesday. Minor inflammation has limited Tiedemann early in camp, but his injury isn't believed to be very serious. MLB.com's latest injury update notes that "Tiedemann continues to play catch to keep his arm moving, and the Blue Jays should have a clearer plan in the coming days," adding that he should be available for the regular season if he doesn't need much longer to ramp up. The Jays would love to see him reach the majors after he produced a 1.98 FIP, a .199 opponent batting average, and 16.47 K/9 in the minors last year.

Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Kyle Bradish (elbow) threw from 90 feet again on Wednesday. He continues to make progress in his recovery from a right UCL sprain and subsequent PRP injection. Bradish impressed to the tune of a 3.27 FIP, 8.96 K/9, 2.35 BB/9, and 49.2 GB% in 2023, putting him in line for a steady rotation role as soon as he's healthy. The hurler recently said he has been making great progress, but he's still going to open the regular season on the injured list.

San Francisco Giants closer Camilo Doval was very efficient during Monday's Spring Training game against the Los Angeles Angels. He pitched one full inning but required just eight pitches, all of which were strikes. He surrendered one hit and struck out two batters along the way. Doval has emerged as a very effective relief arm, tossing 67.2 innings, maintaining a 2.93 ERA, and registering 39 saves in 2023. He remains the Giants' closer heading into 2023, giving him significant fantasy appeal.