MLB Player News

Ohtani (elbow) is hitting soft toss for the first time this spring Friday, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News reports.

Ohtani continues to make incremental progress in his recovery from Tommy John surgery. Barring setbacks, he remains on target to return to the lineup as a hitter in May.

Soler (undisclosed) will start in right field and bat cleanup in Friday's spring game against the Angels, Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com reports.

Soler was scratched from Wednesday's lineup for undisclosed reasons but he's apparently healthy given his quick return, especially with him starting in the outfield. The 27-year-old is expected to begin 2019 as the primary designated hitter for the Royals.

Choi (back) is in the lineup for Friday's spring game against the Orioles, Rays broadcaster Neil Solondz reports.

Choi missed a couple days of spring action because of his setback, but he will return to action Friday as expected. Choi will play first base and occupy the third spot in the batting order for the Rays.

Winker went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run Thursday against Milwaukee.

Winker clubbed a two-run homer over the fence in right field to cap off a four-run third inning. After going hitless in his first spring game, he showed signs of life at the dish in a 10-8 loss to the Brewers.

Choi (back) is expected to play Friday against the Orioles, Steve Carney of Sports Radio 620 WDAE reports.

Choi tweaked his back while taking a swing earlier in the week, but he's been cleared to rejoin the lineup after taking a couple of days to rest and recover. Through three games this spring, Choi is 1-for-5 with a 1:2 K:BB.

Carpenter went 2-for-2 with a solo home run Thursday in the Cardinals' Grapefruit League contest against the Mets.

Carpenter was making his third start of the spring, all of which have come as the Cardinals' leadoff man. Both Dexter Fowler and offseason acquisition Paul Goldschmidt have followed him in the order on all three occasions, offering a preview of the arrangement manager Mike Shildt plans to proceed with during the regular season. The arrival of Goldschmidt should bolster Carpenter's chances of surpassing the 100-run plateau for the second straight year and fourth time in his career.

Harper agreed to a contract with the Phillies on Thursday, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. Per Jeff Passan of ESPN.com, Harper's deal is worth $330 million over 13 years and doesn't include any opt-out clauses.

After a long offseason of waiting, Harper has finally found a new home. The superstar outfielder will stick in the NL East, joining the Phillies after spending the first seven years of his career with the Nationals. Harper should immediately slot in as the team's starting right fielder, likely pushing Nick Williams to a reserve role. His arrival should also have a positive impact on the run and RBI counts for the players that flank him in the lineup.

Ohtani (elbow) will progress to soft toss soon as he ramps up his hitting work, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports.

Ohtani has been hitting off a tee for nearly a week and will soon make the next step as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery. He appears to be still on target to return as a designated hitter in May.

Miller agreed Thursday with the Dodgers on a minor-league contract that includes an invitation to major-league spring training, Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Miller's late arrival to camp along with his lackluster production at the MLB level since slugging 30 home runs for the Rays in 2016 make it unlikely that he'll earn his way onto the Opening Day roster. The infielder's minor-league contract presumably includes an opt-out clause that would allow him to pursue opportunities elsewhere if he doesn't receive a look in the big leagues in the first couple months of the season.

Vogelbach went 1-for-1 with a solo homer and two walks in Wednesday's game against the Indians.

It's still early, but Vogelbach -- who is out of options -- is doing what he can do prove he deserves a spot on the team's Opening Day roster. Through four Cactus League games, the hefty first baseman is 4-for-7 with a 1:4 K:BB.