Bullpen

Houston Astros left-handed reliever Bennett Sousa strained his left oblique during last Thursday's Grapefruit League outing against the Nationals and will begin the 2026 season on the injured list. Manager Joe Espada said Sousa will be sidelined until the pain subsides. The injury creates opportunities for other relievers in the bullpen.

14 Mwezi wa tatu, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Tampa Bay Rays reliever Edwin Uceta is recovering from a right shoulder injury and threw his first bullpen session since early Spring Training, though he will not be ready for Opening Day. Manager Kevin Cash expressed encouragement about Uceta's progress, which could see him return to the bullpen in early April. The Rays also secured a 9-6 win over the Minnesota Twins in a Spring Training game featuring several bullpen candidates.

Right-handed reliever Kirby Yates has agreed to a one-year, $5 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels, according to reports. The 38-year-old veteran joins a bullpen bolstered by recent signings of Jordan Romano and Drew Pomeranz. While the team has not confirmed the deal, it marks another bounce-back opportunity for Yates after a challenging 2025 season with the Dodgers.

23 Mwezi wa kumi na mbili, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

The Chicago Cubs have bolstered their bullpen by signing right-hander Jacob Webb to a one-year contract with a club option for 2027. The 32-year-old reliever, who posted a 3.00 ERA with the Texas Rangers last season, adds depth alongside recent acquisitions from his former team. This move comes as the Cubs continue their offseason preparations ahead of Spring Training.

The Cleveland Guardians have added bullpen depth by signing right-hander Colin Holderman to a one-year contract. Holderman, recently non-tendered by the Pittsburgh Pirates, brings Major League experience with a career 4.13 ERA. The move addresses Cleveland's need for relief pitching as identified by manager Stephen Vogt.

6 Mwezi wa kumi na mbili, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

The Toronto Blue Jays have outrighted right-handed reliever Yariel Rodríguez from their 40-man roster after he cleared waivers unclaimed. The 28-year-old remains in the organization but must earn his way back to the majors. This move opens a roster spot ahead of the MLB Winter Meetings.