Austin Riley will miss the remainder of the season after core-injury surgery, with the Braves signaling a target return for spring training. Riley had earlier spent time on the IL with a strained lower abdomen and finished 2024 at .260 with 16 homers and 54 RBI. To cover the gap, Atlanta swung to add depth: Cal Quantrill was claimed off waivers from the Miami Marlins and joined the Braves’ rotation plans, Dane Dunning was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett, and Jake Fraley joined the roster after Cincinnati DFA’d him. Dylan Dodd was recalled from Gwinnett, Luke Williams landed on the 10-day IL with a strained left oblique, and Connor Seabold was optioned to Gwinnett. The moves underscore Atlanta’s push to stabilize its roster and preserve upside for next season, even as Riley’s absence shapes day-to-day fantasy projections.

Fantasy-impact take: with Riley out, Fraley’s plate appearances and lineup role become more interesting for daily fantasy value, while Quantrill’s addition provides a flexible arm that could push for starts or multi-inning relief. Dodd’s recall could unlock bullpen leverage, and the Seabold/Williams depth could offer streaming opportunities in deeper leagues. Atlanta’s emphasis on depth hints at upside behind the star power, and it keeps the Braves competitive while balancing health into spring training.

Vanderbilt baseball has successfully flipped shortstop Luke Williams, ranked No. 14 in the 2026 class, from Virginia after the departure of coach Brian O'Connor to Mississippi State. Williams enhances an already impressive recruiting class for the Commodores, which boasts six top-50 recruits and a total of ten top-100 recruits—the highest in the nation for this class.

At 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds, Williams, hailing from Murrysville, Pennsylvania, is known for his defensive prowess both at shortstop and in center field. He joins a notable lineup of recruits, including Keon Johnson and Bo Holloway, solidifying Vanderbilt's position as a powerhouse in collegiate baseball.

The Toronto Blue Jays ended their spring training matchup against the Atlanta Braves in a 1-1 tie, showcasing early-season resilience. Rainer Nunez contributed significantly for the Jays, driving in an important run by grounding out to third, allowing Michael Stefanic to cross the plate. This occurred in the fifth inning, giving Toronto a brief lead. However, the Braves responded in the seventh inning, with Luke Williams hitting a solo home run to even the score. Starting pitcher Jacob Barnes notably struggled, giving up a walk without recording a strikeout in his inning of work. On the opposing side, Dylan Lee pitched two innings for the Braves, striking out two while allowing two hits, demonstrating a solid start for Atlanta.

As the Blue Jays prepare for their next game against the Philadelphia Phillies, the performance of up-and-coming players like Nunez could be pivotal in shaping the team's offensive strategy this season. This tie highlights the competitive nature of spring training, where both teams are keen to evaluate their rosters for the upcoming season.