Spring Training updates that matter: Acuña's legs, Weathers' arm raises eyebrows, and more
CBS Sports
by
Chris Towers
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Spring Training 2023 has delivered several intriguing updates that could impact the upcoming baseball season. Key players like Ryan Weathers, Ronald Acuna, Jac Caglianone, and Roki Sasaki are drawing attention as they showcase their skills or face challenges during this pre-season phase.
Ryan Weathers made headlines with his impressive velocity, topping out at 99.8 mph in his spring debut. However, his ability to maintain this performance throughout the regular season remains a concern. Despite his dominance in Spring Training, he has struggled to carry over that success in recent years, raising questions about his durability and consistency.
Ronald Acuna's stolen base attempts are making waves again. After sitting out most of 2022 due to an injury, Acuna showed renewed aggression on the bases during Spring Training, attempting three steals in just four games. This shift in approach could signal a return to form for the Braves' star, potentially leading to a career-high stolen base total and solidifying his status as a 30-30 threat.
Jac Caglianone's powerful bat has been on full display, hitting a batted ball over 120 mph—a rare feat achieved by only seven players since 2015. While this doesn't guarantee future success, it highlights his raw power potential and places him in elite company. His strong spring performance suggests he could be a force to reckon with if he continues to develop.
Roki Sasaki's struggles continue as he fails to impress evaluators with his pitching mechanics and command. Despite a velocity boost to 96.9 mph, his lack of movement on the ball leaves him vulnerable against modern MLB hitters. While his splitter remains a viable weapon, his fastball's straightness and inconsistent control are major drawbacks.
These Spring Training updates provide valuable insights for fantasy draft boards and set the stage for an exciting season ahead. The outcomes of these early performances will undoubtedly shape expectations and strategies for fans and fantasy players alike.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/2/2026