2025 Spring Training Buzz: Player Updates and Position Battles

AL West Shakeups: Trout to Right, McCullers' Return, and Positional Puzzles

Mike Trout's move to right field has sent ripples through the Angels' outfield. After discussions with coaches, the move aims to protect Trout's health long-term, but raises questions about who will fill the center field void. Will Jo Adell, Mickey Moniak, or someone else step up? And what does this mean for Taylor Ward in left?

Meanwhile, Astros fans are eagerly awaiting Lance McCullers Jr.'s return after his flexor tendon surgery. While not behind schedule, he's still ramping up and won't be ready for Opening Day. Adding to the intrigue, Brice Matthews is prepping to play second base, potentially impacting Jose Altuve, who will be splitting time between second and the outfield this spring.

AL West Continued: Springs' Workload, A Budding Blue Jay, and Orioles Injury Woes

Good news for the A's: Jeffrey Springs is expected to have no workload restrictions this season after recovering from surgery. Manager Mark Kotsay expressed confidence in Springs making 30-plus starts.

Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins is brimming with excitement over prospect Alan Roden. Atkins highlighted Roden's offensive progress, defensive skills, and base-running prowess as reasons for his optimism. Also in Toronto, Orelvis Martinez will be getting reps at third base, aiming for more positional flexibility.

A shadow has fallen over the Orioles' spring training with top prospect Chayce McDermott nursing a mild lat/teres strain.

AL West & East Updates: Texas, Tampa Bay, Boston, Detroit, and Twins Tidbits

The Rangers are being cautious with Robert Garcia's forearm nerve irritation, hoping he'll be back throwing bullpens soon. Rays' Eloy Jiménez arrived at camp looking leaner and meaner after shedding significant weight in the offseason.

The Red Sox report that Kutter Crawford is dealing with knee soreness, while Brayan Bello had a brief setback with minor shoulder soreness but is throwing again. Manager Alex Cora has also been impressed with the early performances of Richard Fitts and Quinn Priester.

Tigers' Colt Keith focused on refining his mechanics this offseason, hoping to unlock more power. He's modeled his adjustments after none other than Christian Walker.

The Twins' new addition, Harrison Bader, isn't just slated for backup duties; the team envisions him playing left field alongside Byron Buxton in center. And Chris Paddack is embracing a new offseason routine, prioritizing arm health like never before.

"Man, I feel amazing," Paddack shared. "But it sucks because I’m learning this in Year 7."

AL East: Yankee Injuries and Stanton's Elbow Concerns

Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton is facing an uncertain timeline for Opening Day due to chronic tendinitis in both elbows. Manager Aaron Boone is taking a cautious approach, acknowledging the difficulty in predicting Stanton's availability. Adding to their woes, Trent Grisham is also behind schedule due to a recent hamstring strain.