Cole Ragans, the Kansas City Royals ace, is undergoing tests for a left groin injury after leaving a recent game against the Colorado Rockies prematurely. The left-hander struggled, giving up four runs in three innings before being replaced. Manager Matt Quatraro noted Ragans had mobility issues, which may have impacted his pitching performance. Despite his troubles, the bullpen excelled, securing a 7-3 victory for the Royals.

In other injury updates, right-hander Alec Marsh is set to begin a new throwing progression following shoulder soreness, with hopes of a return by June. Likewise, outfielder Dairon Blanco is progressing well from an Achilles injury and might soon commence a rehab assignment.

The Detroit Tigers cut eight players from their roster, reducing their numbers as they approach Opening Day. Notably, infielder Andrew Navigato, who had an exceptional spring training batting .417 with a 1.148 OPS, was among those reassigned to minor league camp. Despite his strong performance, he's not on the 40-man roster but remains a potential candidate for future call-ups. Also cut was Akil Baddoo, recovering from a hand injury and surgery, who has made strides in his rehab but will miss the start of the 2025 season.

The Tigers are required to make 13 more cuts before the season opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 27. As of now, only 39 players remain in spring training, excluding those on the 60-day injured list. Navigato's offensive capabilities have impressed the coaching staff, and while his defense is average, he could play a utility role in the future. For Baddoo, his injury has hindered his opportunities, especially with other outfielders dealing with health issues.

Michael Lorenzen has signed a one-year contract worth $7 million with the Kansas City Royals, including a mutual option for 2026, pending a successful physical. The contract features a $5.5 million salary for the upcoming season and a $12 million option for 2026 with a $1.5 million buyout.

Since being traded from Texas to Kansas City before the deadline, Lorenzen has solidified his role on the pitching staff. Last season, he recorded two wins and a 1.57 ERA in seven games, which included six starts. He contributed to the Royals' wild card success and had two playoff appearances, although he experienced a tough loss in Game 1 against the New York Yankees.

The Kansas City Royals finished the 2024 season with an 86-76 record, securing the second wild card in the American League. They swept the Orioles but fell to the Yankees in the ALDS.

While the pitching staff showed promise, the offense struggled, particularly in the postseason, with key players like Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino underperforming.

Despite these challenges, the Royals made significant progress, marking their first winning season since 2015 and showcasing the talent of Witt, who emerged as a superstar.

Looking ahead, the team must address weaknesses in the outfield and bullpen while considering free-agent acquisitions to bolster their roster for a competitive 2025 season.