The Detroit Tigers have reclaimed infielder Gage Workman after a challenging stint with the Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox. Drafted by the Tigers in 2020, Workman was selected by the Cubs in the Rule 5 draft but struggled to find form. He managed only three hits in 17 plate appearances before being traded to the White Sox, where he fared slightly better with three hits in nine games. A right flexor strain led to his placement on the injured list, and upon recovery, he was waived by the White Sox. Unclaimed, he returns to Detroit, with plans to report to Triple-A Toledo.

Workman's return could boost the Tigers’ infield depth, which has been inundated with talent. His last full season at Double-A Erie was promising, with a .280 batting average and solid power numbers. However, with established players in the major league roster, his path to contribute in the majors may require patience and further development.

The Chicago Cubs faced a challenging defeat against the San Francisco Giants, losing 3-1, while questions loom over the future of rising pitching prospect Cade Horton. Cubs President Jed Hoyer must decide whether to promote Horton from Triple-A Iowa, where he has excelled after recovering from a shoulder injury. Although fans are eager to see Horton make his debut, Hoyer's inclination for immediate impacts could complicate his long-term development.

Meanwhile, Cubs closer Ryan Pressly's recent knee issues have raised eyebrows after a poor performance. Pressly's struggles may prompt a reconsideration of his role, especially with a season that could define Hoyer's tenure. The Cubs' batting has shown inconsistency, particularly in scoring opportunities, a trend that must improve heading into a critical matchup against the New York Mets.

In the competitive landscape of fantasy baseball, players focusing on Saves+Holds (SV+HLD) leagues need to stay ahead of the curve. The top relief pitchers for 2025 have been ranked based on early-season statistics, emphasizing strikeout rates, ERA, and WHIP. Notably, Josh Hader leads the pack, followed closely by promising arms like Andres Munoz and Mason Miller. The rankings also provide team-by-team insights, crucial for understanding potential shifts in usage patterns as the season progresses.

As injuries loom in various bullpens, savvy fantasy managers must monitor performances, particularly with emerging pitchers who might rise in value through their hold opportunities. Familiarity with the positioning and trends within each team's bullpen can help in navigating trades and waiver wire decisions. Whether it’s the depth in teams like the Houston Astros, or the struggles faced by others, staying informed is key to success in this format.

Gage Workman, after a challenging start with the Chicago Cubs, has joined the Chicago White Sox following a trade that involved cash considerations. The 25-year-old third baseman expressed gratitude for his time with the Cubs, acknowledging the supportive environment and his desire to face them as a member of the White Sox. Workman’s brief Cubs tenure included a .214 batting average over nine games, with a notable misplay against the Dodgers contributing to his designation for assignment.

His desire to outperform his former team reflects his competitive spirit, despite only having three hits and two RBIs in his short stint.

Nicky Lopez, an infielder, has returned to the Chicago Cubs on a major-league deal after a brief stint with the Los Angeles Angels. Lopez, who grew up in Naperville, expressed how fulfilling it was to don his No. 12 Cubs jersey, especially for his supportive family and friends. Manager Craig Counsell indicated that while Lopez's arrival will not change the current rotation at third base, the Cubs are looking to develop a reliable everyday player, with hopes that top prospect Matt Shaw will fill that role in the future.

Lopez's signing comes after Gage Workman, who had struggled defensively in limited playing time, was likely to be placed on waivers. Lopez noted Workman's potential and has voiced his support for him during this tough transition. As Lopez integrates back into the Cubs' system, Counsell is optimistic that he will quickly acclimate and contribute significantly.