The Chicago White Sox have made their Opening Day decision, and it comes with a story worth celebrating. The team announced Sunday that right-hander Shane Smith will start the season opener against the Milwaukee Brewers on March 26 at American Family Field. It will mark the first Opening Day start of Smith’s career and comes in only his second season in the major leagues. For Smith, the moment represents a remarkable ... Read more
Houston’s 2026 Season May Depend on Lance McCullers Jr. Finding His Form. DD
The Houston Astros entered the offseason knowing their pitching staff would look different in 2026. When Framber Valdez signed with the Detroit Tigers, it officially ended his long run at the front of Houston’s rotation. While the move itself wasn’t entirely shocking, the destination raised some eyebrows as Detroit suddenly gained one of the most formidable one-two punches in baseball. For the Astros, the challenge ... Read more
Astros Need Lance McCullers Jr. to Be the X-Factor in 2026 Rotation. DD
The Houston Astros entered the offseason knowing their pitching staff would look different in 2026. When Framber Valdez signed with the Detroit Tigers, it officially ended his long run at the front of Houston’s rotation. While the move itself wasn’t entirely shocking, the destination raised some eyebrows as Detroit suddenly gained one of the most formidable one-two punches in baseball. For the Astros, the challenge ... Read more
Phillies Begin Spring Cuts as Four Prospects Sent to Minors — What It Means for the Season Ahead. DD
The Philadelphia Phillies have begun the gradual process of trimming their spring training roster. On Saturday morning, the club made its first set of moves, reducing the Grapefruit League roster from 65 players to 61. The Phillies optioned right-handed pitchers Jean Cabrera and Moises Chace, along with reliever Yoniel Curet and outfielder Gabriel Rincones Jr., to the minor leagues. Cabrera and Rincones were sent to ... Read more
The Blueprint for a Champion: What the Blue Jays Must Become in 2026. DD
The Toronto Blue Jays aren’t entering the 2026 season simply hoping to win games. Blue Jays outfielder George Springer celebrates after catching a fly ball during spring training at Bobby Mattick Training Center at Englebert Complex. | Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images They’re trying to become something more complete. After falling just short of a championship last year, the organization understands that talent alone isn’t ... Read more