MLB Player News

Calhoun went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer in Sunday's spring training loss to the Reds.

It's good news for Angels fans and fantasy owners that Calhoun is playing regularly and producing after undergoing offseason core-muscle surgery. He'd been a model of good health prior to the surgery, and it looks like that ailment won't linger into this season.

Walker was claimed off waivers by the Reds on Monday, Zach Buchanan of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports.

Walker was claimed by the Braves last week, but they were apparently unable to send him through waivers themselves, as Cincinnati snatched him and designated Jumbo Diaz for assignment in a corresponding move. The 25-year-old carries some intrigue with his power potential, as he slashed .264/.321/.437 with 18 homers in 504 at-bats with Triple-A Norfolk last season. He'll try to catch on as a reserve for the big league club, but Walker could find himself as organizational depth in 2017.

Bell (knee) will bat third and man first base in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Bell was slowed earlier in the spring after requiring arthroscopic surgery in February to remove a loose body in his knee, but following some simulated games, the Pirates have cleared him to make his Grapefruit League debut. Despite his limited at-bats in the big leagues, the 24-year-old already boasts advanced plate discipline, though he hasn't yet showcased the premium power most teams value from their corner infielders.

Cubs skipper Joe Maddon confirmed that Rizzo (back) will play in Monday's Cactus League game against the Angels, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.

Rizzo has been out the last couple of days with lower-back tightness, but the first baseman was never at much risk of a long-term absence. Maddon indicated that in addition to playing Monday, Rizzo will also take the field in Tuesday's exhibition with Team Italy in their preparation for the World Baseball Classic.

Rizzo (back) says he expects to play in Monday's Cactus League game against the Angels, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.

Rizzo has been dealing with lower-back tightness over the past few days, but says that it is nothing serious. His return to action will be a welcome sight for the Cubs.

Manager Terry Francona says Santana will be the primary first baseman this season, but should see time as the designated hitter as well, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

The move means recently acquisition Edwin Encarnacion will serve as the main DH. Francona notes the two sluggers will flip positions every few days and expects both bats to be in the lineup on a consistent basis. Santana hit as many home runs (17) as a first baseman last season as he did as the designated hitter, despite playing 30 more games as the DH. In addition, it's reported that the switch hitter has spoken with Francona about seeing playing time in the outfield as well. Regardless, it's safe to expect solid production from Santana no matter the position.

Rizzo (back) is expected to play in Tuesday's World Baseball Classic game against Team Italy, Jesse Rogers of ESPN reports.

Rizzo has been battling tightness in his lower back for the past several days, but it appears to be nothing of serious concern. That said, Rizzo's condition should still be monitored throughout the WBC, which runs through March 22.

Abreu has returned to spring camp and is in the lineup for Friday night's Cactus League game, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports.

The slugger missed the last three days testifying in a smuggling case in Miami. Abreu will get back to preparing for 2017 after slashing .293/.353/.468 last season and recording at least 100 RBI for the third straight year. Expect him to see plenty of opportunities in a weak White Sox lineup this season as he aims to continue his major league success.

Rizzo (back) remains out of the Cubs' Cactus League lineup Friday, Carrie Muskat of MLB.com reports.

Chicago remains conservative with the Cubs' masher after scratching him from the starting order Thursday. Fantasy drafters shouldn't panic, though, as Rizzo has plenty of time to get healthy before Opening Day.

Stassi started in left field Thursday for the first time this spring and went 3-for-5 at the plate.

Stassi is off to an excellent start in his quest to win a bench job. He is hitting .636 with a 1.940 OPS in 12 plate appearances this spring.