Masataka Yoshida's recovery from offseason shoulder surgery has faced setbacks, with the Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora indicating that Yoshida is still feeling soreness during his throwing regimen. The 31-year-old outfielder's anticipated return to Boston for evaluation is on the cards as the team prepares to kick off a homestand after a road trip. Yoshida, who had shown promise early in spring training, is currently not close to beginning a rehab assignment and needs to demonstrate he can play in the outfield, especially with Rafael Devers solidifying the designated hitter position.

His performance in the Grapefruit League included a .286 batting average with a home run and a double over 11 games, but that is now overshadowed by his ongoing health issues. The Red Sox are keeping a close eye on his recovery, as they also consider roster moves for other players making waves in the minor leagues. As the regular season approaches, the pressures to perform and the implications for the team’s lineup are mounting.

The Toronto Blue Jays have officially traded right-handed pitcher Brett de Geus to the Pittsburgh Pirates for cash considerations, as confirmed by the team on Wednesday.

De Geus, who was designated for assignment by Toronto last Friday, found a new team just five days later, helping the Blue Jays clear space on their 40-man roster for All-Star reliever Jeff Hoffman.

The Pirates, having previously added Caleb Ferguson and Peter Strzelecki to their bullpen, continue to bolster their pitching staff and take risks on underperforming relievers like de Geus.