What's happened
The Dodgers prepare for the 2026 season with key signings and roster decisions. Shohei Ohtani is returning as a two-way player after injury, while the team bolstered its pitching staff with new signings. Other teams like the Tigers and Diamondbacks also made significant moves, impacting the league's competitive landscape.
What's behind the headline?
The Dodgers' strategic acquisitions and lineup clarity position them as strong contenders again this season. Shohei Ohtani's health and ability to perform as a two-way player will be critical to their success. The league's competitive balance is shifting as teams like the Tigers and Diamondbacks invest heavily in their pitching rotations. Gallen's desire to stay with Arizona, despite interest from other teams, highlights the importance of stability in a league increasingly driven by big contracts and player mobility. The league's overall landscape is becoming more dynamic, with talent-rich teams aiming for dominance, but the Dodgers' depth and experience give them a clear edge. The upcoming season will test the resilience and adaptability of these rosters, with injuries and player performance likely to be decisive factors.
What the papers say
The Independent reports on Ohtani's spring training and Dodgers' lineup plans, highlighting his return from injury and team strategy. AP News details the signing of pitcher Urquidy by the Pirates, adding depth to their rotation. The NY Post discusses the Dodgers' roster and lineup, emphasizing their strategic moves and key questions. Additional reports from the NY Post and AP News cover Gallen's arbitration victory and his expressed desire to remain with the Diamondbacks, as well as Valdez's signing with the Tigers, illustrating the league's shifting talent landscape.
How we got here
The 2026 MLB season is approaching, with teams making strategic roster adjustments. The Dodgers, reigning champions, have maintained their star-studded roster, while other teams like the Tigers and Diamondbacks have added key players to improve their competitiveness. Ohtani's return as a full-time two-way player is a major storyline, following his injury-plagued 2024 season.
Go deeper
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