MLB Player News

Assad didn't factor into the decision Friday against the Reds, allowing two runs on five hits and three walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out seven.

Both of the runs charged to Assad came in the fourth inning when the Reds strung together three straight singles. Still, it was a positive effort for Assad overall after he'd given up seven runs (six earned) over 9.2 innings in his previous two outings, though he now has seven or more strikeouts in three of his last four starts. Overall, the 26-year-old right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.27 ERA, 1.18 WHIP and 61:26 K:BB through 63.1 innings this season. Assad's currently in line for a rematch with Cincinnati on the road in his next start.

Diaz earned the save Friday against the Cubs despite allowing a run on two hits in a walk in the ninth inning.

Diaz allowed the first two baserunners to reach safely before surrendering a one-out double to Seiya Suzuki. While one run scored on the play, Jacob Hurtubise would throw out Nick Madrigal at the plate as the tying run before Diaz got Cody Bellinger to fly out, sealing a 5-4 victory. While it didn't come easy for Diaz on Friday, he's now converted four straight save opportunities while allowing just one earned run in his last 5.2 innings. Diaz's ERA still sits at an uninspiring 5.91 with a 1.55 WHP and 22:15 K:BB across 21.1 innings this year. He's converted 11 of 13 save chances overall.

Fujinami, who was placed on the 15-day injured list May 13 with a right shoulder strain, is expected to be sidelined for six-to-eight more weeks, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports.

Fujinami was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse after struggling in spring training. Those struggles continued across his nine minor-league games, as he registered a 14.09 ERA and 3.33 WHIP across 7.2 innings before landing on the IL. The good news for Fujinami is that he isn't expected to need surgery, but the 30-year-old right-hander will be out of action until mid-to-late July.

Manager Oli Marmol confirmed Friday that Pallante will be the Cardinals' starting pitcher Tuesday against Houston,John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Pallante fired six scoreless frames Wednesday against the Reds, a start impressive enough to warrant another turn in the rotation. He'll face an Astros lineup that's been significantly more productive than Cincinnati's, but Pallante should warrant some streaming appeal after his strong starting debut.

The Padres are still evaluating Darvish's left hamstring injury and have not ruled out him making his next scheduled start Tuesday versus the Angels, Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Darvish had to be lifted from Wednesday's outing against the Marlins after his hamstring tightened up on him. While it's a good sign he hasn't been placed on the 10-day injured list yet, no final determination has been made regarding his status for his next turn or a possible IL stint. More clarity on Darvish's situation should be available in the coming days.

O'Brien (forearm) is slated to throw another bullpen session Sunday, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

It's the second time he's thrown from the bump since he went down with a right flexor strain back in late March. O'Brien should be ready for a rehab assignment soon if he continues to progress.

Matz (back) will throw another bullpen session Friday, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Matz threw a light bullpen session Wednesday, which evidently went well. It's not clear whether he'll throw with more intensity Friday, but it would appear he's taking baby steps in the right direction. Andre Pallante is currently filling in for Matz as the Cardinals' fifth starter.

Edman (wrist) has been cleared to take batting practice from the left side of the plate, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

It's the first time the switch hitter has taken BP from the left side since he experienced complications in his recovery from right wrist surgery. While the step is an important one, Edman does not appear close to beginning a rehab assignment just yet.

Manager Oli Marmol said Friday that Nootbar (oblique) is expected to miss several weeks, John Denton of MLB.com

On top of what seems to be a multi-week absence, Nootbar will need at least a week-long rehab assignment in the minors, meaning the 26-year-old may miss the entirety of June. While he's sidelined, Alec Burleson should serve as St. Louis' everyday right fielder, while Matt Carpenter should see the brunt of the DH work.

Bouchard is absent from the lineup for Friday's game versus the Dodgers.

Bouchard had started each of the last four contests in left field, but he will begin the series opener against the Dodgers on the bench. Jake Cave is getting the call in left field for this one.