Spring Training Sessions Underway for MLB Players

Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks is making strides in Spring Training after recovering from a right shoulder strain that kept him out for most of 2024. He participated in live at-bats against the team's full starting lineup, demonstrating notable improvement, though he had briefly missed a session due to a mild illness he likely contracted from his daughter. Diamondbacks' manager Torey Lovullo praised Kelly's performance, noting the effectiveness of his pitches. Meanwhile, other pitchers like Alex Faedo of the Tampa Bay Rays and Jordan Wicks of the Chicago Cubs also engaged in live batting practice as they aim for spots in their respective teams' rotations. Faedo is looking to rebound after a challenging stint with the Tigers, while Wicks is competing for a rotation position after struggling last season. Kelly's successful return is deemed vital for the Diamondbacks as they seek to build on their recent World Series appearance.