In a surprising turn of events, Dodgers' new star pitcher Roki Sasaki announced his marriage, catching even manager Dave Roberts off guard. The 23-year-old phenom's announcement came via Instagram just before the team's workout. Sasaki expressed joy in starting his first season in the majors alongside his wife, acknowledging their mutual support amid uncertainties. Meanwhile, pitcher Bobby Miller, recovering from a head injury sustained during a game, reported feeling much better, though he remains in concussion protocol as the Dodgers prepare for their upcoming games.

The Toronto Blue Jays are shifting focus as they gear up for their pre-season opener, with the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament capturing the minds within their clubhouse. Players typically glued to MLB Network found themselves watching the Canada-Finland match instead. Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette expressed newfound excitement for hockey, calling it the first game he looks forward to. Other players, including George Springer and Erik Swanson, voiced support for their favorite teams, with Swanson rooting for Winnipeg Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck.

Manager John Schneider remarked on the current amicable Canada-U.S. relations, despite ongoing political tensions. He noted that the Blue Jays have not encountered any anti-Canadian sentiment thus far as they prepare for their upcoming season. The team, training in Dunedin, Florida, will kick off their pre-season against the New York Yankees, with the regular season beginning on March 27 against the Baltimore Orioles.

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have signed left-handed pitcher Kirby Yates to a one-year, $13 million contract, which includes a $3 million signing bonus and a $10 million salary for the upcoming season. Yates, a two-time All-Star, can earn an additional $100,000 in performance bonuses based on his relief appearances. Last season with Texas, he posted a career-low 1.17 ERA and secured 33 saves. Over his career, Yates has accumulated 95 saves with a 3.17 ERA across 422 appearances, showcasing his reliability out of the bullpen.

The Chicago Cubs are setting their sights high with significant trades and acquisitions that promise to elevate their competitiveness in the upcoming seasons. Central to their strategy is the acquisition of star right fielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros, expected to strengthen their offensive lineup. Additionally, veteran reliever Ryan Pressly joins the team, addressing their need for a reliable closer, while Eli Morgan adds further depth to the bullpen after being traded from the Cleveland Guardians.

This aggressive offseason has come at a cost, as the Cubs parted with top minor league talent, including their first-round pick Cam Smith. Despite this, the organization remains confident in its robust farm system, which features multiple top-100 prospects, including third baseman Matt Shaw and catcher Moises Ballesteros.

Looking ahead, the team is aware that several key veterans, including Tucker and Pressly, will enter free agency after the 2025 season, creating opportunities for younger players to step in and contribute. The Cubs feel assured they can mix veteran experience with fresh talent, ensuring flexibility and effectiveness as they aim for postseason success.