Fantasy Baseball Spring Training News and Notes from 3/13/16

Corey Seager Out 1-2 Weeks, Could Start Season DL

Seager, MLB's top ranked prospect, was recently named the Los Angeles Dodgers starting shortstop. Now, he could begin the season on the disabled list after spraining a ligament in his left knee. An MRI revealed that the injury won't require surgery, simply rest that could still set the rookie back. Once he returns, Seager will ultimately need to restart his workouts and get back into baseball shape with Opening Day only three weeks away.

Despite his inexperience, Seager is penciled into the fifth spot of RotoBaller's fantasy shortstop rankings. The injury is nothing long term so even if he's on the 15-day come April, his draft status and fantasy value shouldn't be affected too much. If he starts the season on the DL, he'll likely drop out of the top five but should still be among the top 10 shortstops drafted in any league. Barring any delays in his return, Seager should be scooped up around the 10th round.

Matt Wieters Exits Saturday's Game Early  

Wieters experienced right elbow soreness during Saturday's Grapefruit League matchup against the Minnesota Twins and was yanked from action in the bottom half of the first inning. According to MLB.com, Orioles coaches noticed immediate discomfort from their starting catcher after an overthrow trying to nab Eduardo Nunez stealing second. The Orioles are hopeful that the pain won't linger.

Wieters recently had Tommy John surgery on the same elbow in 2014 and returned to the ball club in June last season. The X-Rays were negative, but because of Wieters history with injuries, there should be plenty of concern surrounding the 29-year-old's Opening Day status and fantasy value.

He is currently ranked 10th among catchers on RotoBaller and owners will need to see a definitive, healthy return before Wieters becomes a trustworthy option again. Keep an eye on the progress of Wieters as his status will likely be updated throughout the week.

David Wright to Finally See Action on Monday

Wright is now set to take the field for the first time this spring. The New York Mets have played it safe with their veteran third baseman, worried that an extended offseason away from the game deemed him unfit to compete, according to MLB.com. It's still uncertain whether he'll take part in a minor league or simulated game but the good news for Mets fans is that he's ready.

Once a no-brainer in the first few rounds of any fantasy draft, Wright is certainly a shell of his former self. But despite a continuous dip in production, Wright's average has remained steadily around .290-.300. His ability to swing the bat isn't the concern. How healthy can he stay has become the burning question.

Wright is not a starter on fantasy lineups anymore but should be given a look to store on benches or for a potential utility role in deeper mixed leagues. A career renaissance certainly isn't out of the question for Wright, just as long as he plays between 120 and 130 games. Wright hasn't seen a full season since 2012 where he appeared in 156.

San Fransisco Giants Cross Their Fingers for Matt Cain's Return

After the removal of a cyst on his throwing arm prior to spring training, Cain tallied 35 pitches in a bullpen session on Saturday. According to MLB.com, Cain indicated that he experienced no pain during the session and is likely to face live batters in batting practice as the next step of his rehabilitation.

Cain has been plagued by injuries and has seen a decline in not only appearances but wins over the past couple of seasons. Once an intricate part of the Giants pitching rotation and winning formula, Cain has struggled to establish the durability he displayed from 2006 to 2013 where he started at least 30 games in all eight seasons. Cain has only started 26 games over the past two years.

With the Giants likely to contend in the NL West, a healthy Cain would be a huge boost. Although, his return for Opening Day is still in question. Untrustworthy, for now, Cain can be passed up on in any draft until it is clear when he'll join the rotation.

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