Chris Bassitt delivered a strong performance on the mound, pitching 5 2/3 innings, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a narrow 2-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. Bassitt allowed just two hits and one earned run while striking out four batters and walking three. The game's opening score came in the third inning when Nathan Lukes hit an RBI single, followed by Ernie Clement scoring on a wild pitch from Pirates starter Bailey Falter.

Pittsburgh managed to get on the board in the sixth inning with a sacrifice fly by Joey Bart, bringing Isiah Kiner-Falefa home. However, the Blue Jays held on for the win, with Bassitt improving to 2-0 for the spring. Falter took the loss, giving up four hits and two earned runs over five innings.

As fantasy baseball drafts heat up, targeting relievers can be a tricky yet rewarding endeavor. With the loss of Edwin Diaz shaking up the landscape, many players might overlook the value of relievers, but this season is ripe with potential breakout candidates. Jeff Hoffman of the Toronto Blue Jays stands out after a solid performance last season with improved velocity and strikeout rates, suggesting he could dominate in a closer role. Meanwhile, Chris Martin of the Texas Rangers presents a more understated option, boasting a strong ERA and stability in a closer role, as he faces little competition in the bullpen. Lastly, Aroldis Chapman remains a fascinating figure with his blazing fastball, despite concerns about his command and the looming presence of Liam Hendriks. With these players, fantasy managers can find value as they build their bullpens.

As fantasy baseball draft season kicks off, identifying undervalued pitchers can significantly enhance your roster. Several players, currently undrafted or at the tail end of drafts, present intriguing value. Matthew Boyd of the Chicago Cubs shows promise following a solid finish in 2024, boasting impressive strikeout rates and effective pitch performance. Meanwhile, Max Scherzer, despite aging concerns, retains his slider's effectiveness, presenting potential for strikeouts at a bargain ADP. Kris Bubic's transition from reliever to starter for the Kansas City Royals also opens avenues for late-round value, highlighted by his improved velocity and strikeout capabilities. Reid Detmers of the Angels, despite a rough 2024, shows promise as a high-strikeout pitcher. Finally, Cody Bradford, though currently on the IL, possesses skills worth tracking when healthy.

The Toronto Blue Jays have firmly committed to their young catcher, Alejandro Kirk, signing him to a five-year contract extension worth $58 million, which also includes a $6 million signing bonus. This contract solidifies Kirk as the team's starting catcher following the trade of Danny Jansen to the Boston Red Sox last season.

In spring training, Kirk appears noticeably fitter, which aligns with the team's expectations for a breakthrough season. His stellar defensive prowess is noteworthy, ranking in the 98th percentile for fielding run value and excelling in caught stealing and pitch framing statistics. However, after a promising start to his career with a .278 batting average and solid on-base-plus-slugging stats, Kirk's performance has declined the past two seasons, hitting just .251 with limited power and an OPS of .685. His comeback this season will be pivotal for both his career and the Blue Jays’ success.

The Toronto Blue Jays are finalizing their opening day roster as spring training concludes, with Tyler Heineman confirmed as the backup catcher to Alejandro Kirk. Davis Schneider, who had a lackluster previous season, has greatly improved his performance in spring training, boasting a .345 batting average and 1.155 OPS. Changes to the coaching staff, specifically the hiring of David Popkins as hitting coach, have contributed to Schneider's success. Meanwhile, Gold Glove center-fielder Daulton Varsho will begin the season on the injured list, impacting the outfield dynamic and potentially opening a spot for others like Steward Berroa and Nathan Lukes.