Here are three things MLBTR readers should keep an eye on throughout the day:
1. The World Baseball Classic continues:
Pool play in the World Baseball Classic continues today. But we already know which two teams will advance from Pool C (Japan, Korea) and Pool D (Venezuela, Dominican Republic). Puerto Rico in Group A and the United States in Group B both recorded 3 wins and 0 losses, with Puerto Rico already confirmed to advance to the quarterfinals. Team USA will need to beat Team Italy in tonight’s game (scheduled for 8 p.m. local time in Houston) to earn a spot. Italy’s loss to Mexico tomorrow and Italy tonight would result in a penalty shootout between the three clubs, with both clubs having identical 3-1 records. As for Group A, Cuba (2-1) is currently the favorite to advance to the quarterfinals, but things could get interesting if Canada (1-1) wins against Puerto Rico at 7 PM ET.
2. Are more extensions on the way?
Yesterday, the Phillies surprised the baseball world with an unexpected extension for left-handers. Jesus Luzardo. Luzardo signed a five-year, $135 million contract just months before becoming a free agent. The 28-year-old was signed after a season in which he posted a 3.92 ERA in 32 games with stellar peripherals (2.90 FIP, 28.5% strikeout rate). Luzardo’s deal is a reminder that the absence of rumors surrounding a particular player doesn’t necessarily signal a lack of negotiations going on behind the scenes. Luzardo joins Braves left-handed pitcher chris saleDodgers third baseman Max Muncy And the A’s shortstop Jacob Wilson He joins the list of notable players who have signed extensions over the past five to six weeks. Cardinals manager Ollie Marmol, Brewers skipper Pat Murphy and Padres president of baseball operations AJ Preller also signed new contracts this spring.
As for Luzardo, his extension is expected to be officially announced by the team at a press conference today, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. This could lead to notable comments from Phillies president Dave Dombrowski, so fans might want to pay attention to this.
3. Today’s MLBTR Chat:
The World Baseball Classic (WBC) is underway, and MLB clubs are entering the final week of spring training. Free agency deals are almost finalized (not yet signed). Lucas Giolito Nevertheless), baseball-related teams are gearing up for the 2026 campaign. If you’re curious about where your club is, how the offseason went, or if there are any other steps your club should take before the season begins, you can hear thoughts from MLBTR’s Steve Adams in a chat scheduled for 1 p.m. Click here to ask questions in advance, follow along as they begin, and read the script when you’re done.
