As Major League Baseball (MLB) spring training kicks off, excitement is building among fans and teams alike. Pitchers and catchers are reporting to their respective camps in Arizona and Florida, gearing up for the upcoming season, which begins on March 25. This year’s spring training is particularly noteworthy due to the much-anticipated World Baseball Classic, where the best players from around the globe will compete on an international stage.
Among the notable offseason moves, the San Diego Padres have signed former Los Angeles Dodgers right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler to a minor league deal. Buehler, who had a challenging 2025 season, started 22 games for the Boston Red Sox, finishing with a 7-7 record before being released midseason. The Philadelphia Phillies picked him up later that season. His addition is seen as a potential boost for the Padres as they prepare for the new season.
Padres’ New Addition: Walker Buehler
The signing of Walker Buehler marks a significant moment for the Padres, who are looking to bolster their pitching staff. Buehler, a two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers, brings valuable experience, having excelled in previous seasons. Though, his performance in 2025 was less than stellar, leading to questions about his form and fitness. The Padres’ management is hopeful that a change of scenery will help him return to form.
Injury Updates and Preparations
In other news, Minnesota Twins pitcher Pablo López had to cut short a bullpen session due to “a little bit of elbow soreness,” according to the team’s manager. López, who turns 30 next month, was considered ahead of schedule in his preparations for the World Baseball Classic, where he is expected to represent Venezuela. He has been the Twins’ opening day starter for the past three seasons, but injuries limited him to just 75.2 innings last year.
The 2023 All-Star had a solid performance with a 2.74 ERA last season, and prior to that, he won 10 games for three consecutive seasons, peaking with a career-high 15 wins in 2024. His health will be closely monitored as the Twins look to build on their recent successes.
Mike Trout’s Return to Center Field
Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout has expressed a desire to return to center field after spending time in right field last season. Trout, an 11-time All-Star, cited concerns about physical demands associated with corner outfield positions and indicated he will not participate in the World Baseball Classic due to insurance issues. He believes playing center field is essential for his health and performance.
Last season, Trout played 130 games, the most since 2019, but struggled with a .232 batting average, the lowest of his career when he had at least 400 at-bats. His performance was hampered by injuries, but he still managed to hit 26 home runs. Trout’s conversations with new Angels manager Kurt Suzuki about returning to center field highlight his commitment to maximizing his effectiveness on the field.
Padres Extend GM A.J. Preller
The Padres also made headlines by extending the contract of their general manager, A.J. Preller. Preller has been instrumental in transforming the Padres into a playoff contender, with the team making the postseason four times in the last six years. Under his guidance, the Padres have invested significantly in elite talent, including free-agent signings like Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts.
Preller’s tenure has been marked by significant trades that have brought stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. And Juan Soto to San Diego. The franchise has enjoyed back-to-back 90-win seasons for the first time in its history, and attendance records at Petco Park have been set in each of the last three seasons. The Padres are eager to pursue their first World Series championship, and Preller’s continued leadership will be crucial in that endeavor.
Other Notable Transactions
In addition to the Buehler signing, the Padres have also signed Nick Castellanos to a one-year deal after he was released by the Phillies. Castellanos, who is expected to play primarily at first base, had a challenging 2025 season, posting 17 home runs and 72 RBIs with a .250 batting average.
the Blue Jays traded for outfielder Jesús Sánchez from the Astros, while Chris Bassitt agreed to a one-year deal worth $18.5 million with the Orioles. Bassitt has a history of strong performances, including an All-Star selection with the Athletics in 2021.
Looking Ahead
As teams finalize their rosters and prepare for spring training games, the focus will shift to how these signings and injuries will impact the upcoming season. The World Baseball Classic will also serve as a platform for players to showcase their skills on an international stage, adding another layer of excitement to the 2026 MLB season.
Fans can expect a thrilling season ahead, and as always, discussions around player performances and team strategies will heat up. Stay tuned for more updates as spring training continues.