Barely three days into the shortened 2020 MLB season and the Cincinnati Reds are already dealing with roster problems. On Sunday, the Reds played without second baseman Mike Moustakasand center fielder Nick Senzel with Moustakas placed on the injured list because of illness. The players reported not feeling well one day after teammate Matt Davidson tested positive for COVID-19. Manager David Bell said Moustakas woke up not feeling well and called the team who told him to stay away from the ballpark while Senzel was originally in the lineup before feeling sick and being replaced.
Things are starting to point in the right direction for the Atlanta Braves catching corps, though things aren’t 100 percent yet. Manager Brian Snitker said after Sunday’s game that catchers Tyler Flowers and Travis d’Arnaud are still recovering. He said they’re not feeling great, but the tests are coming back negative. He went on to day they just haven’t turned the corner yet. The two catchers were placed on the IL before the start of the series against the Mets with suspect cases of COVID-19.
Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander will miss some time due to an apparent elbow injury. The reigning American League Cy Young Award winner gave up two runs on three hits while striking out seven in Houston’s season opening win on Friday night against the Seattle Mariners. Manager Dusty Baker said Verlander had a forearm strain after the game. The 37-year-old Verlander publicly denied a report that stated he was done for the season.
The Miami Marlins are down four players after just one series. Marlins pitcher Jose Urena missed his scheduled start yesterday as multiple reports say Urena and three other Marlins players have tested positive for COVID-19. The team delayed its flight home after the game over concerns of a possible outbreak.