Marcus Stroman has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to left knee inflammation after a challenging outing against the San Francisco Giants. The Yankees announced the move shortly before their game, following Stroman's poor performance where he allowed five runs and recorded only two outs. Manager Aaron Boone noted that Stroman was feeling discomfort in his knee and underwent tests after the game.

This season, Stroman has struggled, posting an 11.57 ERA over three starts. The Yankees recalled Allan Winans from Triple-A to replace him, as their starting rotation has faced challenges with a 5.46 ERA. Clarke Schmidt is expected to return soon, further complicating the rotation decisions for the Yankees.

Marcus Stroman's disastrous start for the Yankees against the San Francisco Giants set a troubling tone, as he allowed five runs without recording an out. The game commenced with Mike Yastremski hitting a double on Stroman's first pitch, quickly followed by a walk to Willy Adames. Jung Hoo Lee's three-run homer intensified the Yankees' struggles, leading to boos from the crowd as the Giants built a 3-0 lead instantly. LaMonte Wade Jr. added to the misery with a two-run single, culminating in an unceremonious outing for Stroman.

This season has been tumultuous for Stroman, who initially faced uncertainty regarding his role but managed to secure a spot in the rotation due to injuries to teammates. However, his performance has been underwhelming, with seven earned runs over his first two outings against the Brewers and Pirates. The Yankees will need a quick turnaround from Stroman if they hope to rebound from this early deficit.

Hunter Greene delivered a nearly flawless performance for the Cincinnati Reds, falling just short of a complete game in a 2-0 victory against the San Francisco Giants. Greene, now boasting a 1-1 record this season, pitched 8.2 innings while striking out six and showcasing his dominance against a Giants lineup that had the best record in baseball at 8-2. The Reds' offense came alive late, with Blake Dunn hitting a crucial bases-loaded double in the eighth inning, providing the necessary runs to secure Greene's first win of 2025.

Despite facing Giants ace Logan Webb, who had a strong outing himself with ten strikeouts over seven innings, the Cincinnati bullpen capitalized on late-game opportunities. Greene's efforts were nearly rewarded with a shutout, but a late single by Jung-Hoo Lee and a walk to Matt Chapman ended his night, forcing manager Terry Francona to bring in Tony Santillan for the final out. The win marks a significant step forward for the Reds, now improving to a 4-7 record.

The San Francisco Giants are actively shaping their roster as spring training progresses, with key position battles heating up. Manager Bob Melvin hinted at a possible Opening Day lineup during a recent exhibition against the Chicago White Sox, featuring LaMonte Wade Jr. at first base and Matt Chapman at third. With veteran Justin Verlander on the mound, the projected lineup, which includes Jung Hoo Lee and Mike Yastrzemski, showed promise with four home runs in a 7-3 victory. Verlander expressed excitement over seeing the team gel, emphasizing the importance of players finding their rhythm in their respective spots.

The pitching staff showcased strong control, a vital improvement over last year’s performance, as they continue to refine their approach leading into the start of the regular season.

As the 2024 MLB free agency period unfolds, Pete Alonso, a power-hitting first baseman, remains a highly sought-after player. With the New York Mets and New York Yankees showing interest, Alonso's future is uncertain as he navigates a complex market. The San Francisco Giants have emerged as a potential landing spot, especially after Corbin Burnes signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leaving them in search of offensive upgrades, including at first base.

Alonso has hit 226 home runs during his six seasons with the Mets, making him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their lineups. However, negotiations between Alonso and the Mets have reportedly hit a snag, with a significant gap in contract discussions. While Alonso's camp appears willing to wait for the right opportunity, the Mets have internal candidates like Mark Vientos who could fill the first base role if Alonso departs.

Recent moves in the free agency market have narrowed Alonso's options, with several teams acquiring new first basemen. The Yankees seem to be leaning towards more cost-effective alternatives, potentially complicating Alonso's prospects with them. Additionally, there are concerns about Alonso's fit with the Yankees, given their existing roster of right-handed power hitters.

Despite the slow development of his market, Alonso's track record and ability to deliver in clutch moments keep him in the conversation for teams seeking a first baseman. Mets owner Steve Cohen has expressed hope for a reunion, but the reality of Alonso's declining performance metrics over the past two seasons poses challenges. As the offseason progresses, Alonso's situation remains one to watch closely.