MLB News: Braves Receive Positive News On Starting Rotation; Astros Reunite With Former Catcher & More

The Braves could opt for a six-man rotation to begin the season, with Chris Sale fully healthy to be their Opening Day starter. However, Spencer Strider had a rough 2025 campaign following his return from Tommy John surgery last year. Therefore, the presence of Reynaldo Lopez and Grant Holmes will be crucial in the middle of the order, with Bryce Elder and Joey Wentz making up the back end of the rotation.

Astros Add Veteran MLB Catcher on Minor League Deal

The Houston Astros completed a minor league deal for veteran MLB catcher Christian Vazquez with an invitation to spring training this weekend. The Astros clearly wanted to add depth to their options at the position behind starting catcher Yainer Diaz after losing Victor Caratini to free agency in the offseason.

“Christian is someone who knows this staff very well,” manager Joe Espada told Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. “He’s caught a no-hitter in the World Series, [has] a ton of experience.

“We thought that it was valuable to bring him in here and continue to help our catching depth and our pitching staff also. We have a ton of young arms, and having someone who’s been around, been in the postseason—adding him to major league camp will be beneficial for all of us.”

Vazquez won the 2022 World Series with the organization after joining the team at the trade deadline from the Boston Red Sox. The 35-year-old played the last three seasons for the Minnesota Twins, but his production steadily decreased over time. Vazquez will arrive at the Houston Astros camp after his participation for Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Garrett Stubbs Battling For Vacant Spot on Phillies’ MLB Roster

The Philadelphia Phillies may have an extra spot opening up on their Opening Day roster, with outfielder Johan Rojas facing an 80-game suspension for failing a PED test . Garrett Stubbs is a contender for the berth, although he is already competing with Rafael Marchan for the backup role behind starting catcher J.T. Realmuto.

However, the Phillies are planning to use Stubbs as a super-utility player instead, as per Charlotte Varnes of The Athletic.

“Rob Thomson said Garrett Stubbs has gotten some work in the infield & outfield. First base, left field, third base could be in play. “There’s nothing that says he couldn’t be the 26th man and we carry three catchers,”” Varnes reported on X.

Stubbs had a dozen appearances in the outfield during his time with the Houston Astros. However, he played just four games on the grass since joining the Philadelphia Phillies in 2022. Stubbs made just five appearances for Philadelphia last year, with just a couple of those coming as a catcher for the team.