MLB Player News

Neris (7-2) tossed a scoreless ninth inning with two strikeouts to earn the win in Thursday's 5-3, 10-inning victory over the Giants.

Neris went through a rough patch earlier this month but has pitched better lately, tossing scoreless innings in consecutive outings with four total strikeouts. The veteran once again didn't see a save opportunity, as that went to Porter Hodge on Thursday, but it was encouraging to see Neris still work in a high-leverage spot. He figures to remain Chicago's closer moving forward, though he could be replaced if his struggles resurface.

Harper felt hamstring tightness while running to first base in the ninth inning of Thursday's game against the Marlins, Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Harper sustained the injury on a groundout to end the game. Manager Rob Thompson said no more details were known about the issue but that there would be more information Friday.

Schwarber was removed from Thursday's game against the Marlins due to left groin tightness, Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Schwarber was removed in the ninth inning and replaced by Brandon Marsh. The extent of the injury will not be known until Friday.

Stephenson (personal) was scratched from Thursday's lineup against the Cardinals, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports.

Stephenson was scratched moments before first pitch to be present for the birth of his child. He'll likely be placed on the paternity list and will miss between one and three additional games. Luke Maile took over behind the dish.

Nootbaar (oblique) will begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Springfield on Friday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Nootbaar said he expects his rehab assignment to last roughly six games, which would put him in line to return to the active roster July 5 for the beginning of St. Louis' series with the Nationals. The 26-year-old outfielder has spent nearly a month on the injured list after straining his left oblique during a game in late May.

Fraley underwent an MRI on his right calf Thursday, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports.

It's not clear what the result of the exam revealed or if they're in yet, but Fraley will miss a second straight start Thursday after being a late scratch from Wednesday's lineup. Santiago Espinal is getting the call at designated hitter for Cincinnati.

Candelario (hamstring) isn't in the Reds' lineup for Thursday's game against the Cardinals.

Manager David Bell said Wednesday that Candelario has been dealing with hamstring tendinitis for the past week, and while the team still doesn't plan on placing the 30-year-old on the injured list, the injury will cause him to miss a second consecutive game. Spencer Steer will get the nod at first base as a result, allowing Nick Martini to start in left field and bat fifth.

Sanchez (shoulder) threw an 18-pitch bullpen session Wednesday, Christina De Nicola of MLB.com reports.

He could throw off the mound again this weekend. While it appears he's inching in the right direction, Sanchez won't be eligible for activation until early August after being transferred to the 60-day injured list earlier this week. He's coming back from right shoulder inflammation.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson said Thursday that Walker (finger) will not return before the All-Star break, Paul Casella of MLB.com reports.

The team doesn't have a timetable to offer yet on Walker, who is dealing with right index finger inflammation, but it is not expecting him back before the end of the first half. With Spencer Turnbull (lat) joining Walker on the 15-day injured list, the Phillies' rotation depth is being tested. Filling the fifth spot for now will be Michael Mercado.

The Reds transferred Pagan (lat) to the 60-day injured list Thursday.

Pagan landed on the injured list June 9 due to a strained right lat, and his move to the 60-day IL will ensure that he remains sidelined until at least early August. His 40-man roster spot will be given to Noelvi Marte, who was reinstated from his 80-game suspension Thursday.