MLB news, rumors for Feb. 26: Royals, Perez continue contract talks

Our series looking at the most important numbers in each division continued Friday with the NL Central. The AL West is due up Saturday. Here is a recap of Friday's news from around the league.

ROSTER MOVES & TRANSACTIONS

Astros: Signed free agent LHP Neal Cotts to a minor league deal. (MLB.com)

Cubs: Signed free agent OF Shane Victorino to a minor league contract.

Indians: Signed free agent OF Will Venable to a minor league contract, the team announced.

Rangers: Signed free agent OF Drew Stubbs to a minor league deal. (ESPN)

INJURY UPDATES

Cardinals: C Yadier Molina (thumb surgery) started some light catching drills. (St. Louis Post Dispatch)

Mets: RHP Zack Wheeler (Tommy John surgery) will make 10-15 throws from in front of the mound Saturday. (ESPN New York)

Royals: IF Omar Infante (elbow surgery) could miss some time this spring as he rehabs. (Kansas City Star)

Tigers: RHP Anibal Sanchez underwent an MRI after feeling discomfort in his triceps earlier this week. It showed only inflammation. (MLB.com)

Twins: 2B Brian Dozier (hip surgery) said he is "110 percent." (Star Tribune)

Yankees: OF Brett Gardner (wrist) felt fine after taking batting practice. (Journal News)

NEWS & RUMORS

Blue Jays: Manager John Gibbons said either OF Kevin Pillar or OF Michael Saunders will bad leadoff. (MLB.com)

Braves: Will wear a patch on their jerseys this year marking their final season in Turner Field.

Indians: OF Abraham Almonte has been suspended 80 games after testing positive for a performance-enhancing drug.

Royals: Contract talks with C Salvador Perez are ongoing. (Kansas City Star)

Rockies: OF Carlos Gonzalez said he is "always relaxed, to be honest with you" when asked about the constant trade rumors.

White Sox: LHP Chris Sale will not pitch in a spring training game until March 19. He's healthy, they're just saving bullets. (MLB.com)