February 23, 2026
Boston Red Sox shortstop
Trevor Story is a strong candidate to hit second in the batting order this year, following outfielder
Roman Anthony in the leadoff spot, according to Christopher Smith of MassLive.com. Story was in the two-hole in his final 10 games of the 2025 regular season and also hit there in all three of the team's Wild-Card games in the playoffs against the New York Yankees. The veteran shortstop hit .294 with a .339 on-base percentage, .497 slugging percentage, and .836 OPS in his final 84 games last year, but overall, he had a .308 on-base percentage (tied for 11th), and his .433 slugging percentage ranked 72nd among qualified hitters. The 33-year-old two-time All-Star stayed healthy and hit 25 homers, drove in 96, scored 91 runs, and stole 31 bases in 157 regular-season games. Story is still a top-15 fantasy shortstop when healthy, but his lengthy injury history suggests volume could be an issue in 2026.
--Keith HernandezSource: MassLive.com - Christopher Smith
February 23, 2026
Houston Astros relief pitcher
Bryan Abreu could be asked to step up into the closer role to begin the regular season. Normally,
Josh Hader (biceps) would fill the role, but he's currently dealing with biceps inflammation. The southpaw is playing light catch off flat ground, so he'll need to ramp up his progress to be ready in time for Opening Day. It sounds like Abreu is the next man up after posting elite numbers as the set-up man for multiple years. Last season, Abreu registered a career-high seven saves across 70 appearances with the Astros. The team has faith that Abreu can hold down the job while Hader recovers from his injury. The 28-year-old is probably the favorite for saves early in the season, assuming Hader misses time.
--Andy WebbSource: The New York Times
February 23, 2026
Texas Rangers infielder
Justin Foscue (hamstring) was forced to make an early exit from Monday's Cactus League matchup versus the Los Angeles Angels. Foscue was removed from the contest due to right hamstring tightness. It sounds like he pushed to stay in the game, but the Rangers didn't want to risk him making it a more serious injury. He singled in his lone at-bat of the game and should be considered day-to-day for the moment. The former first-round pick has looked solid early in camp, so hopefully he can get back out there soon. There should be another update on his status in the coming days.
--Andy WebbSource: Kennedi Landry
February 23, 2026
Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher
Trevor Megill (forearm) reportedly had platelet-rich plasma injections this offseason. The right-hander decided to get platelet-rich plasma injections after missing time due to a forearm strain in 2025. Megill appears to be healthy now, but his role in the bullpen is not certain yet. Last season, Megill registered a 2.49 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and a 60/17 K/BB ratio with 30 saves in 50 games. The 32-year-old has recorded over 50 total saves over the last two seasons, but might not be the full-time closer. It seems like the Brewers also like
Abner Uribe, who looked good as a closer when Megill missed time last season. Knowing how the Brewers operate, Megill could be a trade candidate given his age and current salary. His full-time closer gig could be in jeopardy, but at least it sounds like Megill is healthy heading into the 2026 season.
--Andy WebbSource: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
February 23, 2026
Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher
Merrill Kelly (back) recently underwent an MRI after being scratched from his scheduled batting practice session last week. On Monday, D-Backs manager Torey Lovullo told reporters that they're still waiting for MRI results on Kelly's back issue. He continued by saying that Kelly is feeling good, so hopefully the 37-year-old will be able to avoid a significant injury. Kelly was recently named the Opening Day starter. At the moment, it doesn't sound like Kelly is in danger of missing the beginning of the regular season. Hopefully, the organization will be able to give a better timetable once the MRI results are in.
--Andy WebbSource: Jose M. Romero
February 23, 2026
Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher
Jose Berrios is feeling 100 percent healthy in camp right now. According to Mitch Bannon, Berrios said on Monday that he was dealing with a bicep tendon issue in September of last season. This could help explain why Berrios struggled late last season and why he was eventually left off the postseason roster. Heading into camp, there was some uncertainty about whether or not Berrios would be in the starting rotation to begin the 2026 season. Now, Berrios is basically a lock to join the rotation with
Shane Bieber (forearm) heading to the injured list to start the regular season. The hope is that a fully healthy Berrios can bounce back after posting mediocre numbers in 2025.
--Andy WebbSource: Mitch Bannon
February 23, 2026
Four-star Fairhope, Alabama, quarterback Gunner Rivers has committed to North Carolina State. Gunner is the son of eight-time NFL Pro-Bowl quarterback Philip Rivers, who starred in college for North Carolina State. Philip Rivers started all four of his seasons at North Carolina State from 2000-03. He threw for a school record 13,484 yards and 95 touchdowns. Philip led the ACC in passing in 2002 and 2003 and led the conference in touchdown passes in 2003. He was the ACC Player of the Year in his senior season of 2003. The elder Rivers led North Carolina State to a bowl game in each of his four seasons, winning three of them. Gunner is the oldest son of Philip and wife Tiffany. Gunner is the 12th-ranked quarterback in the 2027 class. He chose his father's alma mater over offers from Georgia, Auburn, Boston College, and Miami.
--Mike Marteny - RotoBallerSource: On3 Sports
February 23, 2026
The Kansas City Chiefs released veteran defensive end Mike Danna on Monday to free up more salary cap space before the official start of the new league year, according to ESPN. The move to release Danna saves the Chiefs $9 million on their 2026 cap. The Chiefs entered the offseason more than $57 million over the cap before releasing Danna and restructuring quarterback
Patrick Mahomes' deal. The 28-year-old Danna started 32 games for KC over the last three seasons. In 15 contests in 2025, the 28-year-old former fifth-rounder in 2020 out of Michigan had only 25 tackles (eight solo), one sack, his first career interception, and a pass breakup. Danna has 194 tackles (96 solo), 21.5 sacks, and 25 tackles for loss in his six NFL seasons, all with the Chiefs. He won two Super Bowl titles with KC but will now look to latch on with another team as he heads into his seventh year in the league.
--Keith HernandezSource: ESPN.com
February 23, 2026
Chicago Bulls guard
Anfernee Simons (wrist) will miss Tuesday's game against Charlotte after sitting out the second half of the weekend due to a lingering wrist issue. He is officially day-to-day as the team continues to evaluate the injury. His absence shifts additional backcourt responsibility to
Tre Jones,
Collin Sexton and
Rob Dillingham, though all three remain fringe and volatile fantasy options. Jones produced eight points and three assists last game and offers the most upside if his minutes increase, while
Josh Giddey will continue to direct the offense.
--Brian DailisanSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
Indiana Pacers forward/center
Pascal Siakam (wrist) is considered doubtful for Tuesday's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers due to a left wrist sprain. Siakam just returned to the floor on Sunday against the Mavericks after recovering from a hamstring injury, but seemingly had another setback, picking up a wrist injury during the contest.
Kobe Brown and
Micah Potter (ankle) will be expected to take on heavier workloads if Siakam is unable to suit up.
--Andrew LennoxSource: Indiana Pacers
February 23, 2026
Los Angeles Chargers center Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement from professional football on Monday on his Instagram account, according to Kris Rhim of ESPN. Bozeman will hang up his cleats after playing for three different teams (Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers) over his eight seasons. The 31-year-old was drafted in the sixth round in 2018 out of Alabama by the Ravens, and he played in Baltimore for the first four seasons of his career. He spent 2022 and 2023 with the Panthers before joining the Chargers each of the last two years. Bozeman played in at least 14 games in all eight of his NFL seasons and started 110 of the 129 games he appeared in over the course of his career. Offensive line was already a big area of need for L.A. this offseason before Bozeman's retirement. The Bolts are expected to target center Tyler Linderbaum in free agency to help bolster their O-line.
--Keith HernandezSource: ESPN.com - Kris Rhim
February 23, 2026
Green Bay Packers impending free-agent quarterback
Malik Willis and Alabama QB Ty Simpson are among the "external quarterbacks" on the Cleveland Browns' radar with the NFL scouting combine kicking off this week, according to Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Meanwhile, the Browns are still trying to decide if they think one of
Shedeur Sanders or
Deshaun Watson (Achilles) can be their starter in 2026. Watson has more experience in the NFL, but he didn't play at all last year due to a torn Achilles he suffered in 2024, and he's rarely been available for Cleveland since signing a massive five-year, $230 million contract with the team in March of 2022. Sanders, a fifth-rounder, predictably in his first eight games (seven starts) last year, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. The Browns bringing in Willis or Simpson would signal their lack of faith in both Watson and Sanders going into the 2026 season.
--Keith HernandezSource: The Cleveland Plain Dealer - Mary Kay Cabot
February 23, 2026
Philadelphia 76ers center
Joel Embiid (knee) is questionable for Tuesday's game against Indiana after sitting out the last five contests due to right knee management and shin soreness. The questionable tag signals progress, though his status remains uncertain. If Embiid is held out again,
Andre Drummond and
Adem Bona would continue to split center duties. Drummond produced six points and nine rebounds in his last start, while Bona added eight points and five boards.
Tyrese Maxey would also retain elevated scoring and playmaking responsibilities if Embiid remains sidelined.
--Brian DailisanSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
According to Justin Turpin of WEEI.com, Boston Celtics forward
Jaylen Brown (knee) is considered questionable for Tuesday's matchup with the Phoenix Suns. Brown is dealing with a left knee contusion after posting 32 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals across 36 minutes against the Lakers on Sunday. Fantasy managers should have a better idea of the 29-year-old's status after he goes through shootaround and pregame warmups before tomorrow evening's tilt.
--Andrew LennoxSource: Justin Turpin
February 23, 2026
Memphis Grizzlies guard
Ty Jerome (illness) is unlikely to play Monday against the Kings, per Damichael Cole of The Memphis Commercial Appeal. Jerome remains listed as questionable, but indications are he will be held out. His potential absence would free up additional backcourt minutes for
Scotty Pippen Jr.,
Cam Spencer,
Javon Small, and
Walter Clayton Jr. Pippen posted 18 points, six assists, two steals, and three triples last game, while Small and Clayton each logged 26 minutes. Pippen profiles as the strongest streamer if Jerome sits.
--Brian DailisanSource: Damichael Cole
February 23, 2026
Dallas Mavericks guard/forward
Cooper Flagg (foot) will miss Tuesday's matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. The 19-year-old rookie will be sidelined for a fourth consecutive game due to a left midfoot sprain. His next opportunity to return comes Thursday versus Sacramento. In Flagg's absence,
Max Christie and
Khris Middleton should continue to see expanded offensive roles. Middleton finished with 25 points, seven assists, and one steal in Sunday's win over Indiana, making him a solid streaming option in most formats.
--Andrew LennoxSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
Sacramento Kings guard
Devin Carter (back) is out for Monday's game against Memphis after being added late to the injury report with lower-back soreness. His absence should open additional ballhandling and scoring chances in the backcourt.
Malik Monk is positioned for a larger offensive role after posting 19 points, six assists, and three triples last game, while
Nique Clifford could see steadier involvement as well.
Russell Westbrook will continue to initiate the offense. Newly signed
Killian Hayes may factor into the rotation, though his role remains uncertain.
--Brian DailisanSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
Toronto Raptors guard/forward
Scottie Barnes (personal) is available for Tuesday's matchup against the Thunder after sitting out Sunday. The 24-year-old has been a category anchor over his last five games, averaging 18.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.8 blocks in 33.2 minutes while shooting 52.2 percent from the field. His return trims the roles of
Gradey Dick and
Ja'Kobe Walter and could slightly reduce
Immanuel Quickley's on-ball reps. Barnes remains a must-start option in all formats given his across-the-board production.
--Brian DailisanSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
Will Zalatoris has made just two starts to begin 2026, finishing T18 at The American Express and missing the cut at the Farmers Insurance Open. He looks to build some momentum as he makes his tournament debut at the Cognizant Classic this week. Through those two events, he ranks 12th in total strokes gained (+1.388 per round), 29th off the tee (+0.508), and 25th on approach (+0.602). Accuracy is likely to play a major role at PGA National, and he sits 72nd in driving and 17th in proximity from 150-175 yards (23'5"), a range that accounted for the most approach shots here last season. His putting has teetered early in the year, gaining over 2.1 strokes at the AMEX, but losing more than 2.2 at Torrey. Even with a small sample size, Zalatoris looks like a solid fantasy option at $8,400 on DraftKings if he has a decent week with the flat stick.
--Dakota Legg - RotoBallerSource: PGA Tour
February 23, 2026
Toronto Raptors center
Jakob Poeltl (back) is out for Tuesday's game against the Thunder as the team manages his lower back in the first half of a back-to-back. His absence opens minutes for
Collin Murray-Boyles and
Sandro Mamukelashvili. Mamukelashvili posted 15 points, four rebounds, four assists, three triples, and one steal in 23 minutes last game, while Murray-Boyles logged 29 minutes in a recent start. Both are viable deep-league streamers, with Mamukelashvili offering more scoring and Murray-Boyles supplying steals and blocks.
--Brian DailisanSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
According to Erik Slater of ClutchPoints.com, Brooklyn Nets guard/forward
Ziaire Williams (personal) will be available for Tuesday's matchup against the Dallas Mavericks. The 24-year-old missed the previous two contests due to a personal matter. Williams is averaging 9.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 22.9 minutes across 39 appearances this season. Even with his return, he is unlikely to carry meaningful fantasy appeal in most formats.
--Andrew LennoxSource: Erik Slater
February 23, 2026
New Orleans Pelicans guard
Dejounte Murray (Achilles) has been cleared to play Tuesday against Golden State after missing most of the season while recovering from a ruptured Achilles. The 29-year-old is expected to return with a monitored workload, potentially easing in off the bench as the team manages his minutes. His return clouds
Jeremiah Fears' role after Fears logged seven points, seven rebounds, and six assists in 25 minutes last game. Murray's presence should also trim
Jordan Poole's usage. Murray carries upside in assists and steals but comes with short-term minutes risk.
--Brian DailisanSource: NBA Injury Report
February 23, 2026
Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark (illness) should be available as the NHL season continues this week, Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen reports. The Swedish netminder dealt with flu-like symptoms before the Olympic break and was unavailable for one game. Additionally, Ullmark has missed time this season due to personal reasons. He has posted a 16-8-5 record in 30 starts, allowing 2.86 goals with a .884 save percentage. Ottawa needs Ullmark to be at the top of his game to make the playoffs. The team resumes play on Thursday against Detroit, currently six points behind the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot.
--Taavi PailkSource: Bruce Garrioch
February 23, 2026
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Phoenix Suns forward
Dillon Brooks (hand) will miss 4-to-6 weeks due to sustaining a broken left hand during Saturday's 113-110 win over the Orlando Magic. Brooks earliest return to action would be in late March if he is cleared to play by then. The 30-year-old has been outstanding this season, averaging a career-high 21.2 points with 3.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.1 steals. While Brooks is sidelined, fantasy managers can expect
Collin Gillespie,
Jalen Green, and
Grayson Allen to lead the offense, especially with
Devin Booker (hip) also out for a few more games.
--Andrew LennoxSource: Shams Charania
February 23, 2026
Utah Jazz center
Jusuf Nurkic (nose) is scheduled to undergo surgery this week that will sideline him for the remainder of the season, according to Chris Haynes of NBA TV. The 31-year-old has dealt with breathing issues stemming from a prior fracture and finishes the year averaging 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in 26.4 minutes across 41 games. His absence locks
Kyle Filipowski into a featured role after a 20-point, six-rebound, four-assist, two-steal, two-block effort in 28 minutes last game. Filipowski is a must-roster option, while
Lauri Markkanen and
Isaiah Collier should see added playmaking touches.
--Brian DailisanSource: Chris Haynes
February 23, 2026
Rasmus Hojgaard is off to a solid start to 2026, with progressively better finishes of T44, T30, and most recently, T24 at the WM Phoenix Open. He'll look to continue that trend at the Cognizant Classic, where he missed the cut in his only appearance in 2024. Hojgaard ranks 23rd in total strokes gained (+1.234 per round), including 23rd off the tee (+0.564) and 21st in putting (+0.776). The only issue comes with precision, as he sits just 160th in driving accuracy and 152nd in proximity from 150-175 yards (33'3"), a range that accounted for 21.7% of approach shots here last year. Despite the precision concerns, Hojgaard still profiles as a strong fantasy option in a weaker field than we've seen recently.
--Dakota Legg - RotoBallerSource: PGA Tour
February 23, 2026
San Jose Sharks right wing Ryan Reaves (upper body) was activated from Injured Reserve on Monday. The enforcer will be available for Thursday's matchup against the Calgary Flames. Reaves sustained an upper-body injury prior to the Olympic break but missed only one contest. In 46 outings this season, Reaves has contributed three goals while amassing 32 penalty minutes and 142 hits. He is tied for 29th in the league with 3.1 hits per game.
--Taavi PailkSource: San Jose Sharks PR
February 23, 2026
Washington Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren (lower body) was activated from Injured Reserve on Monday. The veteran netminder missed four games before the Olympic break due to a lower-body injury. Serving as Logan Thompson's backup, Lindgren has gone 8-6-3 in 17 starts this season, posting a 3.37 goals-against average, a .884 save percentage, and one shutout. Washington will resume the season on Wednesday night against the Philadelphia Flyers. The team also has a back-to-back on Friday and Saturday, so Lindgren is likely to start at least once this week.
--Taavi PailkSource: NHL.com
February 23, 2026
Buffalo Sabres center Josh Norris (ribs) will rejoin the lineup on Wednesday against the New Jersey Devils. The 26-year-old injured his ribs in mid-January and has missed 12 games. Norris has also missed time with an upper-body injury this season, appearing in only 19 contests. He has recorded six goals and 11 assists. Norris' return provides a significant boost for Buffalo's forward group, especially with Zach Benson (upper body) expected to be sidelined for at least three more games. Norris will join the first power-play unit and skate with Josh Doan and Noah Ostlund at even strength.
--Taavi PailkSource: NHL.com
February 23, 2026
Max McGreevy missed the cut at last week's The Genesis Invitational following a tied-for-29th finish at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. McGreevy has had a solid start to 2026, but has lost strokes, putting in four of his six appearances. If he can improve his putting, he could give himself a chance to be near the top of the leaderboard on Sunday at this week's Cognizant Classic. McGreevy finished tied for fourth at last year's Cognizant Classic. Over the past 12 months, McGreevy ranks in the 17th percentile in greens in regulation percentage on approach shots from 150-200 yards in the fairway. This is worth mentioning because at last year's Cognizant Classic over 40% of approach shots came from this distance.
--Ian Christenson - RotoBallerSource: Data Golf
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