In his third spring training with the Chicago Cubs, Pete Crow-Armstrong has solidified his status as the team's center fielder following an impressive rookie season. Having debuted at age 21, Crow-Armstrong's combination of elite speed and improved batting has made him a key component of the Cubs' lineup.

His 2024 season featured significant learning moments, particularly after an early struggle with hitting that saw him demoted to Triple-A. However, he rebounded strongly in the second half, displaying power at the plate while maintaining standout defensive capabilities. With his role secured, Crow-Armstrong is focused on continuing to develop as a player, aiming for both individual accolades and contributing to the Cubs' success.

Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees is undergoing platelet-rich plasma injections to help with his elbow tendinitis, a condition that has troubled him since last season. General Manager Brian Cashman reported that Stanton didn't express issues until shortly before spring training, leading to a delayed response. Stanton is expected to begin the 2025 MLB season on the injured list and has been unable to engage in baseball activities, which impacts his game readiness.

Despite his struggles, Stanton had a notable postseason last year. In his absence, Aaron Judge and others will seek to fill the void at designated hitter. The Yankees hope to have a healthy Stanton back as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

The New York Yankees are gearing up for their Grapefruit League matchup against the Minnesota Twins with a lineup that closely resembles what fans might expect on Opening Day. Catcher Austin Wells will be leading off, with Aaron Judge taking on designated hitter duties. Veteran sluggers Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt are also in the lineup, with Jazz Chisholm Jr., Anthony Volpe, and Jasson Dominguez filling key infield and outfield positions. Giancarlo Stanton, however, will be sidelined due to elbow injuries, and DJ LeMahieu is currently shut down from baseball activities.

This potential Opening Day lineup marks a historic moment for the Yankees as it would be the first time a catcher bats leadoff in a regular-season game. Wells, drafted in the first round in 2020, made his MLB debut in 2023 and became a key contributor last season. With the additions of Goldschmidt and Bellinger, the Yankees aim to rebound from last year's playoff exit against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Max Fried made his highly anticipated spring training debut for the New York Yankees, showcasing impressive velocity, hitting up to 97 mph with his fastball. Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Fried's performance, noting his ability to maintain good movement and command over a variety of pitches despite allowing a home run that tied the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Fried's healthy return is pivotal as it marks his first live action since the postseason.

Key offensive contributions came from Cody Bellinger and Anthony Volpe, each recording two hits. Volpe's performance is particularly encouraging as he aims for a breakout third season. Dominic Smith, pushing for a roster spot amid competition for the designated hitter role, added two critical two-run singles. The Yankees dominated the game with a 12-3 victory and are looking forward to their next matchup against the Philadelphia Phillies.

In a promising spring training debut, Gerrit Cole showcased his pitching prowess, striking out five batters in just over three innings during the Yankees' 6-3 victory over the Blue Jays. Cole's performance featured a diverse mix of pitches, including a stunning knuckle curve that left Toronto's Tyler Heineman baffled. Despite a brief struggle in the third inning, where he allowed his only run, Cole's velocity peaked at 96 mph, signaling he is ready for the season ahead.

Offensively, Cody Bellinger and Austin Wells made headlines with their power-hitting, contributing crucial homers to the Yankees' win. Bellinger went 2-for-3 with a home run and a double, while Wells led off with a home run of his own. The Yankees' lineup displayed depth with multiple players, including Spencer Jones and Alex Jackson, stepping up to score runs, highlighting the competition for roster spots as they prepare for the regular season.