The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a strategic addition to their roster by signing DH/OF Joc Pederson to a one-year contract, with an option for mutual extension into 2025. In a move to maintain balance on their 40-man roster, the D-backs have designated right-handed pitcher Collin Snider for assignment.

Joc Pederson, a seasoned major leaguer with a decade of experience, brings a wealth of accolades and achievements to Arizona. Standing at 6’1” and weighing 220 pounds, the left-handed hitter has been a key figure in the baseball world, with a resume that includes two World Series championships — with the Atlanta Braves in 2021 and the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2020. Furthermore, Pederson has started in the National League All-Star Game twice, representing the San Francisco Giants in 2022 and the Dodgers in 2015.

Pederson’s track record since his MLB debut speaks volumes of his impact on the field. Among active National League outfielders and designated hitters, he ranks impressively in several categories since 2015: fourth in games played (1,122), fifth in home runs (186), sixth in walks (433), seventh in extra-base hits (366), and ninth in RBIs (485).

His prowess against right-handed pitching over the last two seasons is notable, with a batting average of .260 and an OPS of .841, including 35 home runs and 107 RBIs. Pederson’s clutch performance with runners in scoring position against righties is particularly striking, boasting a .348 batting average and a .994 OPS.

Pederson’s postseason experience further bolsters his value to the Diamondbacks. In 79 career playoff games, he has maintained a .256 batting average with 12 home runs and 29 RBIs, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

Last season with the Giants, Pederson proved to be a critical asset, leading the team in game-winning RBIs and ranking second in walk rate. Over his 10-season career, which includes stints with the Dodgers, Cubs, Braves, and Giants, Pederson has compiled a solid .237 batting average, .800 OPS, and accumulated 485 RBIs and 186 home runs across 1,140 games.

The departure of Collin Snider, who was claimed off waivers from the Royals in December 2023, makes room for Pederson’s arrival. The Diamondbacks’ decision to bring in Pederson is a clear move to enhance their offensive capabilities and experience on the field as they gear up for the upcoming season, aiming to make a significant impact in the league.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Kansas City Royals have bolstered their roster by signing veteran infielder Adam Frazier to a one-year contract, with a mutual option for extending the partnership through 2025. In adherence to the club’s policy, the financial details of the agreement remain under wraps. The Royals will be making a corresponding roster move later today to accommodate this new addition.

Frazier, 32, brings a wealth of experience from his eight years in the Major Leagues, having played for the Pittsburgh Pirates, San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners, and most recently, the Baltimore Orioles. His career peaked in 2021 when he was honored as a National League All-Star, showcasing his talent with career highs in batting average (.305), doubles (36), and runs (83).

Known for his exemplary hustle and heart on the field, Frazier has earned the Heart and Hustle Award twice, in 2017 and 2021. His defensive skills have also been recognized, with two nominations for the Rawlings Gold Glove Award at second base during his tenure with Pittsburgh in 2019 and 2020.

Frazier’s versatility is a significant asset, having played six different positions throughout his MLB career. Yet, it’s his remarkable tenure at second base that stands out; since 2019, he has led Major League Baseball in games played at the position, showcasing an impressive .989 fielding percentage, tied for the best in the majors with Ozzie Albies and Marcus Semien.

In his 2023 season with the AL East champion Orioles, Frazier hit a personal best of 13 home runs and 60 RBIs. He also made an appearance in two of the three American League Division Series games against the World Series champion Texas Rangers, further proving his value in high-stakes situations.

Frazier’s ability to make contact and avoid strikeouts has placed him ninth among all qualified hitters in plate appearances per strikeout over the last five seasons. His performance at Kauffman Stadium, with a .290 batting average and an .888 OPS over 10 games, suggests he’s well-suited to his new home.

As the Royals gear up for the upcoming season, Adam Frazier’s addition is a strategic move aimed at strengthening their infield and adding a proven performer to their lineup. His experience, versatility, and consistent performance at the plate and in the field are expected to be key contributors to Kansas City’s ambitions in the MLB landscape.

January 13, 2024

The Cincinnati Reds have officially signed left-handed pitcher Brent Suter to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million for the 2024 season. The deal also includes a $3.5 million club option for 2025 with a $500,000 team buyout.

Career Highlights

• Suter had a successful 2023 season with the Colorado Rockies, recording a 3.38 ERA over 57 appearances, including two starts.
• He is known for his ability to induce soft contact, with one of the lowest exit velocities and hard-hit percentages among pitchers with significant innings pitched.

Background

• A Cincinnati native, Suter grew up in Anderson Township and is an alumnus of Archbishop Moeller High School and Harvard University.
• Over his 8-year major league career with the Brewers and Rockies, Suter has a record of 40-22 with a 3.49 ERA.

The addition of Brent Suter provides the Reds with experienced left-handed depth in their bullpen, enhancing their pitching options for the upcoming season.

January 12, 2024

The Toronto Blue Jays have officially unveiled their coaching staff for the 2024 Major League season, featuring several new appointments and returning staff under the leadership of Manager John Schneider.

Key Coaching Staff Appointments

• John Schneider: Continues as the Manager.
• Don Mattingly: Appointed as Bench Coach and Offensive Coordinator.
• DeMarlo Hale: Will serve as Associate Manager.
• Pete Walker: Retains his role as Pitching Coach.
• Guillermo Martinez: Continues as Hitting Coach.
• Mark Budzinski: Appointed as First Base Coach.
• Carlos Febles: Joins as the new Third Base Coach.
• Jeff Ware and David Howell: Assistant Pitching Coaches, focusing on the bullpen and strategy, respectively.
• Hunter Mense and Matt Hague: Assistant Hitting Coaches, with Hague newly promoted from his role as a Minor League hitting coach.
• Gil Kim: Will serve as Field Coordinator.
• John Lannan: Appointed as Major League Mental Performance Coach, a role he previously held at Single-A and Triple-A levels.

Overview of the New Appointments

Matt Hague, joining as an Assistant Hitting Coach, has been with the Blue Jays organization since 2020, serving in various coaching roles across the Minor League levels. His promotion to the Major League level follows the Blue Jays’ suboptimal offensive performance last season, and the front office has high regard for his contributions.

Carlos Febles, the new Third Base Coach, replaces Luis Rivera, who retired at the end of last year. John Lannan, the Major League Mental Performance Coach, has a history with the Blue Jays, having worked in a similar capacity in the lower levels of the organization.

Focus on Improving Offensive Strategy

The Blue Jays’ front office, particularly General Manager Ross Atkins, has emphasized the need to improve the team’s offensive strategy and process. The appointment of Hague and the continuation of Martinez and Mattingly in their roles are seen as steps toward reimagining and enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities.

Conclusion

The 2024 coaching staff of the Toronto Blue Jays marks a blend of continuity and new insights. The appointments and promotions reflect the organization’s strategic approach to improving team performance, particularly in the offensive department, and maintaining a competitive edge in the upcoming Major League season.

January 11, 2024

The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully reached agreements with 11 of their 12 arbitration-eligible players, effectively avoiding arbitration. This move is a significant step in solidifying their roster for the upcoming season.

Key Agreements and Contract Details

• Jordan Romano: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $7.75 million deal. Romano, hailing from Markham, Ontario, has been a crucial part of the Blue Jays’ bullpen.
• Daulton Varsho: The outfielder signed for $5.65 million.
• Danny Jansen: The catcher agreed to a $5.2 million contract.
• Cavan Biggio: The infielder signed a $4.21 million deal.
• Tim Mayza: The left-handed pitcher agreed to a $3.5 million contract.
• Alejandro Kirk: The catcher signed for $2.8 million.
• Erik Swanson: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.75 million deal.
• Santiago Espinal: The infielder signed for $2.725 million.
• Trevor Richards: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.15 million contract.
• Génesis Cabrera: The left-handed pitcher signed for $1,512,500.
• Nate Pearson: The right-handed pitcher agreed to an $800,000 deal.

Notable Exclusion

• Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: The All-Star first baseman was not part of this list of agreements. Guerrero Jr., who is in his second-to-last year of arbitration eligibility, may still negotiate a contract with the Blue Jays before a hearing is required.

Impact on the Blue Jays

These agreements mark a proactive approach by the Blue Jays to secure their core players, ensuring stability and continuity in their lineup. The mix of experienced players and rising talents like Romano, Varsho, and Jansen positions the Blue Jays as a competitive team for the 2024 season. The situation surrounding Guerrero Jr. remains a significant point of interest, given his impact and popularity.

January 11, 2024

The Chicago White Sox have successfully agreed to terms on one-year contracts with seven players, thereby avoiding arbitration. These agreements reflect the organization’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

Key Signings and Contract Details

• Dylan Cease: Right-handed pitcher Cease, who was the American League Cy Young Award runner-up in 2022, secured an $8.0 million deal. Last season, Cease went 14-8 with a commendable 2.20 ERA.
• Nicky Lopez: The infielder agreed to a contract worth $4.3 million. Lopez, along with Michael Soroka, joined the White Sox in a trade with the Atlanta Braves in December.
• Andrew Vaughn: The first baseman signed for $3.25 million. Vaughn transitioned back to his natural position of first base after spending much of his first two seasons in the outfield, slashing .258/.314/.429 with 21 home runs and 80 RBIs.
• Michael Kopech: Right-handed pitcher Kopech also agreed to a $3.0 million contract. He had a record of 5-12 with a 5.43 ERA in 30 appearances (27 starts) in 2023.
• Michael Soroka: Right-handed pitcher Soroka, also part of the aforementioned trade with Atlanta, signed for $3.0 million.
• Touki Toussaint: Right-handed pitcher Toussaint, who went 4-6 with a 4.97 ERA in 19 outings (15 starts) with the Sox, agreed to a $1.3 million deal.
• Garrett Crochet: The left-handed pitcher signed for $800,000. Crochet is planning to transition from the bullpen to the rotation.

Additional Front Office Move

The White Sox also announced the appointment of Jin Wong as assistant general manager. Wong, who spent the previous 24 seasons with the Kansas City Royals, will be responsible for overseeing contract negotiations, salary arbitration, budgeting and payroll management, and compliance with MLB rules and regulations.

The Chicago White Sox’s strategy of signing these players to one-year contracts demonstrates a focused approach to building a competitive team for the 2024 season. The mix of promising talents and experienced players like Cease and Vaughn is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance in the upcoming season.

January 11, 2024

The Chicago Cubs have made a notable move in the trade market, acquiring infield prospect Michael Busch and relief pitcher Yency Almonte from the Los Angeles Dodgers.

In exchange for Busch and Almonte, the Cubs sent pitching prospect Jackson Ferris and outfield prospect Zyhir Hope to the Dodgers. This trade aligns with the Cubs’ strategy to balance building for the future while addressing immediate needs.

Michael Busch, 26, was named the 2023 Pacific Coast League Most Valuable Player and a Baseball America Triple-A All-Star. He showcased his batting prowess with the Oklahoma City last season, hitting .323 with 26 doubles, four triples, 27 home runs, and 90 RBI in 98 games. Busch, who ranks No. 44 in MLB.com’s top-100 prospect list, made his major league debut with the Dodgers last season. Though he struggled initially in the majors, his minor league track record suggests high potential. Busch was selected by the Dodgers in the first round (31st overall) of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Yency Almonte, 29, brings experience as a right-handed reliever, having a career record of 7-6 with 31 holds, two saves, and a 4.51 ERA in 196 games. In the 2022-23 season, he appeared in 49 games for the Dodgers, recording a 5.06 ERA.

For the Dodgers, this trade was a move to clear room on their 40-man roster, with outfielder Teoscar Hernández also joining their ranks. The acquisition of Ferris and Hope from the Cubs adds two high-upside prospects to their organization.

The Cubs, under their current management, are focusing on returning to the postseason. Acquiring Busch and Almonte is a significant step in fortifying their team, blending youthful talent with seasoned players to build a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons.

January 11, 2024

The Chicago White Sox have appointed Jin Wong as their new assistant general manager, as announced on Thursday. Wong, a longtime baseball executive, will be reporting to senior vice president/general manager Chris Getz in his new role with the White Sox.

Jin Wong joins the White Sox following a distinguished 24-season tenure with the Kansas City Royals organization. He most recently served as vice president/assistant general manager under J.J. Piccollo, the executive vice president and general manager of the Royals. Wong has been integral in building the Royals’ successful teams, including the back-to-back American League pennant-winning clubs in 2014-15 and the World Series championship team in 2015.

Wong’s career with the Royals began in 2000 as a scouting operations coordinator. He rapidly climbed the ranks, holding various significant roles, including Assistant General Manager of Baseball Administration, Director of Baseball Administration, and Director of Baseball Operations.

In his new role with the White Sox, Wong will oversee contract negotiations, salary arbitration, budgeting and payroll management, and compliance with Major League Baseball rules and regulations, including the collective bargaining agreement. His extensive experience in baseball operations and contract negotiations will be invaluable to the White Sox organization.

Wong’s departure from the Royals marked the end of a significant chapter in his career. His decision to join the White Sox signifies a new era in his professional journey, bringing his expertise and strategic insights to another prominent MLB team.

The hiring of Jin Wong aligns with the Chicago White Sox’s strategy to reinforce their front office with experienced and successful baseball executives. Wong’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective and contribute significantly to the team’s future successes.

The White Sox, under the guidance of Chris Getz, are looking to build a competitive team that can contend for championships, and Wong’s role will be crucial in realizing these ambitions.

OAKLAND, Calif., January 11, 2024 — The Oakland Athletics have reached one-year contract agreements with two of their arbitration-eligible players, right-handed pitcher Paul Blackburn and outfielder Seth Brown, for the 2024 season. This marks a significant step for the A’s, as they have now secured deals with all players eligible for arbitration on their 40-man roster.

Paul Blackburn, who has spent seven seasons with the Athletics, looks to build upon his 2023 performance, which saw him achieve a 4-7 record with a 4.43 ERA and a career-high 104 strikeouts over 21 games, including 20 starts. Despite starting the season on the injured list due to a right middle fingernail avulsion, Blackburn made a strong return in late May. Over the past two seasons, Blackburn has compiled an 11-13 record with a 4.35 ERA, showing a marked improvement from his initial five-season stint with the team.

Seth Brown faced challenges during the 2023 season, with his performance hindered by a stint on the injured list due to a strained left oblique. Yet, he managed to compile a .222 batting average with 14 home runs and 52 RBI in 91 games. His versatility was on display as he started in four different positions, predominantly against right-handed pitchers, where he hit all 14 of his homers. Over his five-season tenure with the Athletics, Brown has a batting average of .227 with 59 home runs and 186 RBI across 406 Major League games.

The agreements with Blackburn and Brown demonstrate the Athletics’ commitment to solidifying their roster with reliable and versatile players as they aim to make a competitive run in the 2024 season. With all arbitration-eligible players now under contract, the team can focus on spring training and the development of their squad for the challenges ahead in the Major League.

LOS ANGELES, CA., January 11, 2024 — The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced the acquisition of two promising minor league talents, pitcher Jackson Ferris and outfielder Zyhir Hope, from the Chicago Cubs. In return, the Dodgers have traded away right-handed pitcher Yency Almonte and infielder Michael Busch.

Jackson Ferris, a 19-year-old left-hander, has demonstrated significant potential in his 18 appearances for Myrtle Beach last season, securing a 2-3 record with a commendable 3.38 ERA. His impressive performance included 77 strikeouts over 56.0 innings, showing promise of a high-caliber pitcher in development. Ferris, an alumnus of IMG Academy in Florida, also boasts an impeccable junior year record and experience pitching for Team USA in the summer of 2021.

Zyhir Hope, an 18-year-old outfielder, also joins the Dodgers with a solid background. During his stint with the AZL Cubs, he boasted a .286 batting average and demonstrated power with three home runs and nine RBIs in just 11 games. His high school career was stellar, featuring a .538 batting average with nine homers and 38 RBIs.

The Dodgers parted with Yency Almonte, a 29-year-old pitcher who, despite a challenging last season, showed brilliance in 2022 with a 1.02 ERA. Michael Busch, a 26-year-old infielder, leaves after contributing two home runs and seven RBIs in 27 games for the Dodgers last season. Busch had been recognized as Triple-A Player of the Year, ending his season with a .323 batting average, 27 homers, and 90 RBIs for Oklahoma City.

This strategic move signifies the Dodgers’ intention to invest in future stars while balancing their current roster’s depth. With Ferris and Hope’s addition, the Dodgers are poised to enhance their minor league system and secure the franchise’s long-term success.

ST. LOUIS, MO., January 11, 2024 — The St. Louis Cardinals have successfully negotiated one-year contracts with five key players, thereby sidestepping the salary arbitration process for the upcoming 2024 season. These agreements are indicative of the team’s commitment to stability and continuity as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

Outfielder Dylan Carlson is among those who have agreed to terms with the Cardinals. Carlson, known for his defensive prowess and burgeoning offensive capabilities, is expected to be a vital component of the Cardinals’ strategy moving forward.

The pitching staff sees a significant bolstering with relievers Ryan Helsley, John King, and Andrew Kittredge, as well as JoJo Romero, all securing deals. Helsley’s electric arm has been a crucial element of the bullpen, while King, Kittredge, and Romero will aim to solidify the depth and versatility of the pitching rotation.

Details regarding the financial terms of the contracts have not been made public, maintaining a focus on the players’ prospective contributions to the Cardinals’ ambitions rather than the monetary aspects of their agreements.

Infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman, another vital player for the Cardinals, is set to exchange salary arbitration figures with the team. Edman’s versatility on the field and at-bat has made him a valuable asset, and his ongoing negotiations will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

These strategic moves by the Cardinals are a clear signal of their intentions to build a strong, cohesive team capable of contending for the top spot in the upcoming season. With a blend of experienced players and promising talent, the Cardinals are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the league.

January 10, 2024

The Chicago Cubs have officially agreed to terms with left-handed pitcher Shōta Imanaga on a four-year major league contract. The deal, which is a significant move for the Cubs, adds a strong arm to their rotation. However, the terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Imanaga, aged 30, joins the Cubs after eight seasons with the Yokohama Bay Stars of the Japan Central League. He boasts an impressive record of 64-50, including 13 complete games and seven shutouts, with a solid 3.18 ERA in 165 games. His performance is further highlighted by his 1,021 strikeouts against 280 walks, contributing to a 1.12 WHIP.

In his last three seasons since 2021, Imanaga has held a 23-13 record. Notably, he was a pivotal figure in last year’s World Baseball Classic, earning a win for Japan in the final against the United States.

The signing of Imanaga is seen as a replacement for Marcus Stroman, who became a free agent after opting out of his contract with the Cubs. The team’s roster now includes lefty Justin Steele and right-handers Kyle Hendricks and Jameson Taillon, with Imanaga expected to play a significant role in the rotation.

The Cubs, under the leadership of newly hired manager Craig Counsell, narrowly missed the playoffs in the 2023 campaign. With Imanaga’s addition, the team looks set to bolster its pitching lineup and improve its chances in the upcoming season.

While specific financial details of the contract remain undisclosed, it is expected to be substantial, reflecting Imanaga’s standing as a prominent pitcher. The deal reportedly includes player/team options and escalators that could increase its value significantly.

Shōta Imanaga’s signing with the Chicago Cubs is a major development for the team, as they aim to strengthen their pitching staff and make a more substantial impact in the upcoming MLB season. His experience and proven track record in Japan’s Central League and international competitions like the World Baseball Classic make him a valuable addition to the Cubs.

The New York Yankees today announced their coaching staff for the 2024 season. Joining Yankees Manager Aaron Boone will be Bench Coach Brad Ausmus, Pitching Coach Matt Blake, Bullpen Coach Mike Harkey, Assistant Pitching Coach Desi Druschel, Hitting Coach James Rowson, Assistant Hitting Coaches Casey Dykes and Pat Roessler, Third Base and Outfield Coach Luis Rojas, First Base and Infield Coach Travis Chapman, and Major League Field Coordinator and Director of Catching Tanner Swanson.

Ausmus, 54, begins his 34^th season in professional baseball, his 11^th season as a Manager, Coach or front office executive, and his first as the Yankees’ Bench Coach. He most recently served as the Oakland Athletics’ Bench Coach during the 2022 season. Prior to that, Ausmus managed the Los Angeles Angels in 2019 (72-90) and was a Special Assistant to Angels General Manager Billy Eppler during the 2018 season. From 2014-17, he managed the Detroit Tigers, guiding the club to a 314-332 (.486) record, which was highlighted by a 90-72 record and a postseason berth in his first season at the helm.

Immediately following his playing career, Ausmus spent three seasons (2011-13) with the San Diego Padres as a Special Assistant in Baseball Operations. He also managed Team Israel in the 2013 World Baseball Classic and was their Bench Coach in the 2023 edition of the tournament.

Widely regarded as a premier defensive catcher, Ausmus batted .251 (1,579-for-6,279) with 718R, 270 doubles, 34 triples, 80HR, 607RBI, 634BB, 102SB and a .325 on-base percentage over 18 Major League seasons with San Diego (1993-96), Detroit (1996, 1999-2000), Houston (1997-98, 2001-08) and Los Angeles-NL (2009-10). Ausmus won three Gold Glove Awards (2001-02, ’06) and ranks fourth in Major League history in putouts by a catcher (12,839) and eighth in games played as a catcher (1,938).

Born in New Haven, Conn., Ausmus graduated from Cheshire High School and was selected by the Yankees in the 48^th round of the 1987 First-Year Player Draft. He opted to attend Dartmouth College but did not play baseball there, instead playing in the Yankees’ minor league system while working towards his degree, which he received in 1991. He played five seasons in the Yankees’ minor league system (1988-92), topping out at Triple-A Columbus in his final season with the organization before being selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 1992 Expansion Draft.

Blake, 38, returns for his fifth season as the Yankees’ Pitching Coach. In 2023, Yankees pitchers ranked second in the American League and third in the Majors in opponents’ batting average (.234). Yankees pitchers also ranked sixth in the Majors in opponents’ slugging percentage (.396, fourth in AL), ninth in opponents’ on-base percentage (.308, sixth in AL) and opponents’ OPS (.703, fifth in AL), and 10^th in ERA (3.97).

Since joining the Major League coaching staff in 2020, Yankees pitchers rank third in the Majors in strikeouts (4,995, second in AL), WHIP (1.19, second in AL) and opponents’ on-base percentage (.298, second in AL), fourth in opponents’ batting average (.229, second in AL) and K/BB (3.10, second in AL), fifth in ERA (3.74, third in AL) and K/9.0IP (9.31, second in AL), and sixth in BB/9.0IP (3.01, fourth in AL).

Prior to joining the Yankees, Blake spent four seasons with Cleveland (2016-19). Blake began his time with Cleveland as the Lower Level Pitching Coordinator in 2016. From 2017-19, he served as the organization’s Assistant Director of Player Development before being promoted to Director of Pitching Development.

Blake also served seven years as the Pitching Coordinator for Cressey Sports Performance while also coaching the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox of the Cape Cod League. The Concord, N.H., native pitched four seasons at the College of the Holy Cross (Mass.) and graduated in 2007 with a degree in psychology and philosophy.

Harkey, 57, returns for his 15^th season as the Yankees’ Bullpen Coach, having held the position from 2008-13 before returning to the club’s coaching staff for the 2016 season. In 2023, Yankees relievers posted a Major League-best 3.34 ERA (619.0IP, 230ER), .221 opponents’ batting average and .349 opponents’ slugging percentage, ranked second in the Majors in HR/9.0IP (0.86, second in AL) and opponents’ OPS (.658, first in AL), fifth in WHIP (1.23, third in AL) and sixth in opponents’ OBP (.309, third in AL). According to Elias, it marked the 12^th time in franchise history (since 1913 when ER became an official stat in both leagues) and just the second time in the last 42 years (since 1982) that the Yankees posted the lowest bullpen ERA in the Majors (also 1917, 1922, ‘27, ‘39, ‘45, ‘47, ‘55, ‘57, ‘70, ‘81 and ’97).

The 2024 season marks his 18^th on a Major League coaching staff, also serving as the Pitching Coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks from 2014-15 and spending the 2006 season as the Bullpen Coach for the Florida Marlins. He also served as a Minor League Pitching Coach for seven seasons in the Chicago Cubs (2007) and San Diego Padres (2000-05) organizations.

The San Diego, Calif., native was the fourth overall pick of the 1987 First-Year Player Draft by the Chicago Cubs and went 36-36 with a 4.49 ERA in 131 Major League games (104 starts) with the Cubs (1988, ‘90-93), Colorado Rockies (1994), Oakland Athletics (1995), California Angels (1995) and Los Angeles Dodgers (1997).

Druschel, 48, enters his third season as the Yankees’ Assistant Pitching Coach and his sixth season in the Yankees organization. He also served as the Yankees’ Manager of Pitch Development for three seasons from 2019-21. Prior to joining the Yankees, Druschel spent five years at the University of Iowa, serving as the team’s Pitching Coach from 2017-19 after working as their Director of Baseball Operations from 2014-17.

Druschel began his coaching career as an Assistant Coach at Vinton-Shellsburg H.S. (Iowa) in 1998, before joining the collegiate ranks at Indiana University from 1999-2000. He spent five years (2000-04) at Mount St. Clare College (Iowa), serving as an Assistant from 2000-01 before taking over as Head Coach from 2001-04. From 2004-14, Druschel worked at Mount Mercy University (Iowa), serving as an Assistant from 2004-05 before being promoted to Head Coach (2005-14).

The Vinton, Iowa, native played baseball and basketball at Upper Iowa University and Mount Mercy University (Iowa) from 1994-98. He earned his master’s degree in athletic administration from Indiana University in 2001.

Rowson, 47, rejoins the Yankees organization with 22 years of professional coaching experience. The 2024 season will mark his 10^th on a Major League coaching staff and his first as the Yankees’ Hitting Coach.

Rowson spent last season as the Detroit Tigers’ Assistant Hitting Coach after serving as the Bench Coach for the Miami Marlins from 2020-22. Prior to his stint in Miami, he was the Hitting Coach for the Minnesota Twins from 2017-19.

The Mount Vernon, N.Y., native spent nine years in the Yankees organization from 2006-11 and 2014-16, serving as the Minor League Hitting Coordinator in seven of those seasons (2008-11, ’14-16). He was also the Hitting Coach for Single-A Tampa from 2006-07. In between his stints with the Yankees, Rowson spent two seasons with the Chicago Cubs organization (2012-13), originally serving as their Minor League Hitting Coordinator before being named the Cubs’ Major League Hitting Coach in June 2012.

Rowson began his coaching career with the Los Angeles Angels organization, spending four years as a Minor League Hitting Coach with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga (2004-05), Single-A Cedar Rapids (2003) and Rookie-level Provo (2002).

He was originally selected by the Seattle Mariners in the ninth round of the 1994 First-Year Player Draft out of Mount St. Michael High School in the Bronx. The former outfielder played three minor league seasons with the Mariners (1995-96) and Yankees (1997) before playing in the Independent Heartland League in 1998.

Dykes, 33, enters his third season on the Yankees’ Major League coaching staff. Prior to joining the club’s Major League coaching staff, he served as the Hitting Coach for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in 2021. Dykes had been assigned to serve as the Hitting Coach for the Yankees’ Single-A Charleston affiliate in 2020 before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to joining the Yankees, he spent one season (2019) as the Hitting Coach at Indiana University, where the Hoosiers won the Big Ten regular season championship and led all of Division I in home runs during the regular season. He also served as Hitting Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Virginia Military Institute from 2015-18. Dykes began his coaching career as an Assistant at his alma mater, Western Kentucky, from 2013-14. He played four seasons at Western Kentucky (2009-12), graduating with a bachelor’s degree in sport management before completing his master’s in athletic administration in 2014.

Roessler, 64, rejoins the Yankees organization as an Assistant Hitting Coach. The 2024 season will mark Roessler’s 13^th year with the Yankees (also 2004-14, ’19) and 37^th season in professional baseball. In 2019, he was a Player Development Advisor for the Yankees after serving as the organization’s Director of Player Development from September 2004 through the end of the 2014 season. Additionally, he was the organization’s Field Coordinator from September 2004 through the 2013 season and served as the club’s Hitting Coordinator in 2005, ’12 and ’13. For the second half of the 2006 season, Roessler also managed Single-A Charleston.

Roessler spent the last four seasons (2020-23) as the Assistant Hitting Coach for the Washington Nationals. In between his previous two stints with the Yankees, he spent four seasons with the Mets (2015-18), serving as their Assistant Hitting Coach from 2015-17 before being promoted to Hitting Coach for the 2018 season.

Prior to joining the Yankees, Roessler was the Minor League Hitting Coordinator for the Houston Astros from 2002-04. From 2000-01, he was the Major League Hitting Coach for the Montreal Expos after serving as the organization’s Minor League Hitting Coordinator from 1995-97. In between stints with the Expos, Roessler was the Minor League Hitting Coordinator for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1998-99.

He also worked for the Chicago White Sox organization from 1988-94. Roessler was the organization’s Roving Hitting Instructor in 1988 before serving as the Hitting Coach for Single-A Sarasota in 1989 and ’93, Double-A Birmingham from 1990-92 and Single-A South Bend in 1994.

Roessler began his coaching career with Old Dominion University (Va.), serving as the Assistant Baseball Coach from 1983-88.

The Phoenix, Ariz., native received his bachelor’s degree in physical education from the University of Arizona in 1983 and a master’s degree in sport management from Old Dominion in 1987. He played baseball at the University of Arizona and was a member of the 1980 College World Series championship team.

Rojas, 42, enters his third season as the Yankees’ Third Base and Outfield Coach. Prior to joining the Yankees. Rojas spent 16 years with the New York Mets organization (2006-21), including two seasons as the club’s Manager (2020-21). During that span, the Mets went 103-119 (.464) in 222 games.

Rojas was the sixth Dominican-born Manager in Major League history. His father, Felipe Alou, was the first when he managed the Montreal Expos (1992-2001) and San Francisco Giants (2003-06) after his 17-season Major League career. Luis and Felipe were the sixth father-son duo to both serve as Major League Managers, joining Buddy and David Bell, Aaron and Bob Boone, Connie and Earle Mack, George and Dick Sisler, and Bob and Joel Skinner. His brother, Moises Alou, also played 17 seasons in the Majors with seven different teams.

In 2019, Rojas served as the club’s Major League Quality Control Coach. Prior to joining the Mets’ Major League staff, Rojas managed Double-A Binghamton (2017-18), Single-A St. Lucie (2015-16), Single-A Savannah (2012-14) and the Gulf Coast League Mets (2011). Rojas also served as a Minor League Coach for Single-A Savannah in 2010 and held the same role for the Gulf Coast League Mets from 2008-09. He spent his first full season in the Mets organization in 2007 with the Dominican Summer League team after joining the organization in 2006.

Rojas also managed the Dominican Republic National Team in the WBSC Premier12 tournament in 2019. Additionally, the Santo Domingo, D.R., native led Leones del Escogido to a Dominican Winter League championship in 2015-16.

During his playing career, Rojas spent time in the minor league systems of the Baltimore Orioles (2000), Florida Marlins (2001-02) and Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals (2003-05).

Chapman, 45, enters his third season as the club’s First Base and Infield Coach and his 12th in the Yankees organization. He also enters his third season as the organization’s Director of Infield. Prior to joining the Major League coaching staff, he served as the Yankees’ Minor League Infield Coordinator in 2021 after spending the 2020 season coaching at the Alternate Site as the Assistant Infield Coordinator. Chapman had been assigned to serve as the Manager for the GCL Yankees in 2020 before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to that, he spent four seasons as a Defensive Coach for Single-A Charleston (2015-16, ’19) and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (2018). In 2017, he managed the DSL Yankees. Chapman made his minor league managerial debut in 2014 with the GCL Yankees 1 after making his professional coaching debut in 2013 as a coach for the GCL Yankees 2. He was also an Assistant Coach for the 18U USA National team in 2012 that won a gold medal in Seoul, South Korea.

The Jacksonville, Fla., native was originally selected by the Phillies in the 17th round of the 2000 First-Year Player Draft out of Mississippi State University and made his Major League debut with the club in 2003. He played in 506 combined minor league games over seven seasons with the Philadelphia (2000-03), Kansas City (2004), Cincinnati (2005) and Pittsburgh (2006) organizations, hitting .286 (507-for-1,771) with 227, 117 doubles, 5 triples, 41HR, 286RBI and 185BB.

Swanson, 41, enters his fifth season as the Yankees’ Director of Catching and his first as the club’s Major League Field Coordinator. He previously served as the club’s Quality Control/Catching Coach and Director of Catching from 2020-23. Prior to joining the Yankees, he spent two seasons (2018-19) as the Minnesota Twins’ Minor League Catching Coordinator.

The Seattle, Wash., native spent nine seasons at various levels of collegiate baseball, including a five-year stint as a Volunteer Assistant Coach at the University of Washington (2013-17), where he also briefly served as the school’s Director of Baseball Operations for one season (2012). During his tenure as a coach at Washington, his catchers garnered three All-Pac-12 Conference selections, with two also being selected in the first three rounds of the First-Year Player Draft. He also served as Head Coach at Green River Community College (Wash.) in 2011.

Swanson was a lecturer in the School of Physical Education and School Health, while also serving as an Assistant Coach at his alma mater, Central Washington University, in 2010. In 2009, he was an Assistant at Everett Community College (Wash.), and in 2008, he taught and coached baseball at Sultan High School.

January 10, 2024

Major League Baseball has officially announced the game times for its 2024 regular season and Spring Training, including the inaugural Spring Breakout event. This announcement is a part of the MLB’s continuous efforts to innovate and engage fans with exciting baseball action.

MLB Spring Breakout 2024

The MLB Spring Breakout, a new feature in the baseball calendar, is set to debut from March 14-17, 2024. This four-day event will showcase the current stars of Minor League Baseball, focusing on the top 20-25 prospects from each MLB organization. A total of 16 exhibition games will be played across Grapefruit and Cactus league stadiums during Spring Training.

Spring Training Schedule

The Cactus League officially begins on Thursday, February 22, with the Dodgers and Padres facing off in a league showdown. All 30 Major League clubs will then play in Cactus and Grapefruit League games starting Saturday, February 24. This includes the Red Sox and Rays playing a pair of Spring Training contests in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, on March 9-10. The international exhibition series marks the first of four visits by MLB to different countries outside the United States and Canada throughout 2024.

2024 Regular Season Opening

The 2024 regular season is set to begin with the Seoul Opening Series, featuring the Dodgers and the Padres in South Korea’s first Major League games on Wednesday, March 20 and Thursday, March 21. Following this, the regular season will officially kick off on Thursday, March 28, with all 30 clubs playing, including six divisional matchups and one interleague contest (Cubs-Rangers) among the 15 games.

Notable Matchups and Game Times

• Yankees open the 2024 season on March 28 against the Astros, with their home opener scheduled for April 5 against the Blue Jays.
• Guardians’ Opening Day is also on March 28 at the A’s, hosting the White Sox and Yankees for the first homestand of the season.
• Royals start their season on March 28 versus the Twins at Kauffman Stadium.
• Tigers’ Opening Day is set for March 28 at the White Sox, with their home opener against the A’s on April 5.
• Twins open the season on March 28 at the Royals, with their home opener against the Guardians on April 4.

The 2024 MLB schedule offers a blend of traditional matchups, international games, and exciting new events like the Spring Breakout, promising a dynamic and engaging season for baseball fans worldwide.