MLB Player News

Jax (0-1) blew the save and took the loss Saturday as the Rays were downed by the Cardinals 6-5 in 10 innings, giving up two runs (one earned) on one hit and one walk in one-third of an inning.

After blowing the save in Tampa Bay's opener Thursday, Jax was called upon again to protect a one-run lead in the bottom of the 10th, but he instead served up a walk-off single to rookie JJ Wetherholt after a walk and a sacrifice bunt to advance the runners. Jax came into the season expected to lead the Rays' closing committee despite the fact that he didn't record a save in 2025, but those plans could be changing quickly. Left-hander Garrett Cleavinger should be the next man up with Edwin Uceta (shoulder) on the shelf, but Bryan Baker -- who struck out two in a perfect ninth Saturday to get the game to extra innings -- might also be in the mix if manager Kevin Cash wants a righty instead.

Boyle didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 6-5 extra-inning loss to the Cardinals, allowing two runs on three hits over six innings. He struck out four without walking a batter.

The right-hander wasn't even expected to be part of the Rays' rotation to begin the season, but when Ryan Pepiot (hip) landed on the IL, Boyle was pressed into duty and came through with a quality start on 75 pitches (52 strikes). The lack of free passes was especially encouraging after he walked eight in 9.2 spring innings and had a 5.68 BB/9 for his career coming into the year. It's not yet clear when Pepiot will be ready to return, but Boyle will get at least one more chance to prove he deserves to stick around in a road start next weekend against the Twins.

Arias isn't in the lineup for Saturday's game versus Seattle.

Arias has gone 1-for-7 with three strikeouts through the first two games of the season and will step out of the lineup for the third game of Cleveland's four-game set against the M's. Brayan Rocchio will slide over to shortstop while Daniel Schneemann mans the keystone.

Hoskins isn't in the lineup for Saturday's game against Seattle.

Hoskins will get a chance to catch his breath after going 3-for-6 with a run scored and a pair of walks over the first two games of the season. His absence will put Kyle Manzardo at first base and open a spot in the lineup for Angel Martinez to start in left field.

Naylor isn't in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Mariners.

Naylor will sit down for the third game of the series after going 1-for-8 with a walk across the first two contests. David Fry will pick up a start behind the plate in Naylor's stead and bat fifth.

The Nationals designated Eder for assignment Saturday, Danielle Allentuck of TheBaltimoreBanner.com reports.

Eder will forfeit his place on Washington's 40-man roster in order to make room for Curtis Mead, who was acquired in a trade with the White Sox on Saturday. Eder posted a 4.91 ERA and 1.31 WHIP over 18.1 innings with the Angels last season but found less success in Triple-A, where he ended the year with a 6.59 ERA across 68.1 frames (15 starts).

The Nationals acquired Mead from the White Sox on Saturday in exchange for catcher Boston Smith.

After being designated for assignment by the White Sox on Wednesday, Mead will regain a spot on the 40-man roster in a new organization. The 25-year-old infielder has slashed just .238/.300/.317 across 445 plate appearances in his MLB career, but he posted a .908 OPS at the Triple-A level last season and isn't far removed from a being a top prospect in the Rays system. Mead has no minor-league options remaining, so Washington will need to open up room for him on its 26-man active roster.

Lawlar isn't in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Dodgers.

Lawlar has started the new season 1-for-7 with three strikeouts across Arizona's first two contests, and he'll now rest his legs during Saturday's series finale. His absence will allow Jorge Barrosa to start in left field and bat ninth.

Moreno isn't in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Dodgers.

Moreno will take a seat during Saturday's series finale after going 2-for-8 with a run scored over the first two games. James McCann will instead make his first start of the season at catcher and bat eighth.

Priester (wrist) threw a pain-free bullpen session Saturday, Adam McCalvy of MLB.com reports.

Priester is expected to miss the first month of the season due to symptoms related to thoracic outlet syndrome, but the fact that he's able to throw off a mound without any discomfort is a positive sign. He's scheduled for one more bullpen session within the next few days before reporting to the Brewers' complex in Arizona to begin facing hitters.