MLB Player News

Harper was not in the starting lineup Sunday, but pinch hit in the ninth and launched a solo shot to send the game into extra innings, his ninth home run of the season.

His 2016 season is looking more and more like a sequel to The Natural every day. Harper now sports an utterly ridiculous .323/.405/.855 slash line through 62 at-bats, and has more walks (10) and just as many homers (nine) as strikeouts.

McCutchen went 1-for-6 with four strikeouts Sunday against the Diamondbacks.

He's struggling right now, with opposing pitchers challenging him with 92-mph fastballs -- and winning. McCutchen has whiffed 19 times in his last 12 games and has just six extra-base hits in 89 at-bats in 2016. Manager Clint Hurdle has started him in each of the team's first 19 games, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him get a day off in the near future. That said, Monday begins a four-game set in hitter-friendly Colorado, which could be the perfect tonic for McCutchen's slump.

Stanton went 3-for-4 with a solo homer and a walk Sunday at the Giants.

Stanton's fourth blast of the season gave the Marlins an early lead in a game they'd eventually win. After going hitless in his last 12 at-bats, hopefully the multi-hit effort will launch him onto a hot streak. April has been a bit of a struggle for the slugger, as his slash line sits at .230/.324/.443.

Cespedes stated Sunday that his right leg feels "way better," and "maybe" he'll be a part of the lineup Monday against the Reds, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.

An aggravation of Cespedes' bruised right leg forced back-to-back absences to conclude the weekend series in Atlanta, but rest appears to have been what the doctor ordered. On the other hand, manager Terry Collins will have the final word on Cespedes' availability, so expect some clarification in advance of the 7:10 PM ET first pitch.

Manager Dave Roberts expects Turner (toe) to play Monday, MLB.com's Ken Gurnick reports.

Turner was held out of Sunday's lineup for the second straight game as a precaution, but the Dodgers anticipate his bruised big toe having enough time to heal before Monday. It sounds like all signs are pointing to a return, but be sure to check back to confirm prior to Monday's lineup lock.

Blackmon (toe) was able to participate in outfield drills and take batting practice Saturday, MLB.com's Thomas Harding reports.

Blackmon wore turf shoes for the aforementioned drills, but is expected to give them a try with normal spikes Sunday. In a best-case scenario, progress on that front would be encouraging enough for him to begin a brief rehab stint early this week, which could open the door for him to return for the weekend series against the Diamondbacks. With a return date uncertain, however, the outfielder isn't necessarily a guarantee for weekly lineups that lock Monday.

Belt is not in the lineup Sunday against the Marlins.

Belt typically sits against lefties, and Sunday will be no different, as the Marlins will send southpaw Adam Conley to the hill. In his stead, Buster Posey will move from behind the plate to first base, allowing Trevor Brown to get the starting nod at catcher.

Carpenter is back in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Padres.

Carpenter received a day of rest Saturday after going hitless in his previous two games. He'll lead off and take his usual spot at third base.

Turner (toe) is out of the lineup Sunday against the Rockies.

Turner will be given his second straight day of rest to allow the bruised big toe suffered on Friday night to heal. He's been experimenting with a new protective insert that could potentially ease his discomfort, however, so a return to action shouldn't be too far off. Consider him day-to-day heading into Monday's series opener against the Marlins.

Turner (toe) will attempt to play in Sunday's game, MLB.com's Ken Gurnick reports.

The official starting lineup has yet to be released, so it's unclear if Turner's willingness to play will result in the starting nod. He will apparently utilize a special shoe insert that immobilizes the joint that causes the discomfort in his bruised big toe. These injuries tend to be a bit tricky, as rest is the only real treatment, and the ailment is easy to aggravate. Nonetheless, the Dodgers seemingly have a plan for their starting third baseman, and if he doesn't return to action Sunday, look for him to be back in the lineup at some point this week.