The Rollins vs. Phillies saga continues
First, rumor was that there was a rift between Jimmy Rollins and manager Ryne Sandberg. Now, a report from Buster Olney says there's a sentiment within the Phillies organization that Rollins should be traded. Rollins has 10/5 rights, and has adamantly stated "I can't be traded." He has also indicated that he wants to stay in order to break Mike Schmidt's franchise record for hits. I personally can't help but think Rollins has adopted a "me first" attitude.
Tigers reliever Rondon is the latest pitcher to require Tommy John surgery
Kris Medlen and Brandon Beachy aren't the only pitchers requiring the dreaded procedure this year. Bruce Rondon joins the list along with Patrick Corbin, Jarrod Parker and Luke Hochevar. Rondon had 30 strikeouts and 11 walks in 28.2 innings in 2013.
Aroldis Chapman receives a plate in his forehead after taking line drive
Wednesday, Aroldis Chapman took a line drive square in the face, and Thursday had a titanium plate inserted to repair the broken bone above his left eye. This incident surely adds more fuel to the debate for safety headgear for pitchers.
Mat Latos will not be ready for the start of the season
The Reds are in a similar situation as the Braves in that they also have a number of pitchers recovering from surgery. In addition to Aroldis Chapman, Jonathan Broxton is still recovering from last year's forearm surgery and Sean Marshall has been dealing with a sore shoulder. Latos had knee surgery in February and until he's ready, Alfredo Simon is expected to take his spot in the rotation.
Cubs expect Starlin Castro to be ready for Opening Day
Castro suffered a strained right hamstring March 2 and hasn't played since then; the original diagnosis was 7-10 days. Both Castro and manager Rick Renteria are optimistic that he'll be ready for Opening Day. Castro only hit .245 in 2013 and hopes to improve on that with Javier Baez waiting in the wings.
Jose Iglesias to miss 4-6 months with stress fractures in legs
A CT scan revealed bilateral tibia stress fractures in both legs, meaning Iglesias is likely to miss the entire season. Various sources surmised the Tigers would pursue free agent Stephen Drew or utilize internal options, but the team ultimately pulled off a trade with the Angels. Detroit received infielder Andrew Romine in exchange for pitcher Jose Alvarez.