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2026 MLB Spring Training Kicks Off with Key Matchups

2/21/2026

50 6 Full Breakdown

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MLB Spring Training

Spring Training for the 2026 MLB season is underway as teams prepare for the regular season.
Notable matchups include the Philadelphia Phillies facing the Toronto Blue Jays and the Chicago White Sox versus the Chicago Cubs.
The Phillies and Blue Jays finished 2025 with 96–66 and 94–68 records, respectively.
The White Sox and Cubs finished 2025 with 60–102 and 92–70 records, respectively.

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Phillies Retain Stars

Kyle Schwarber and JT Realmuto re-signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for the 2026 season.
The Phillies made limited moves, adding only minor bullpen depth.
The backup-catcher battle is between Rafael Marchán of the Philadelphia Phillies and Garrett Stubbs, who is competing in the World Baseball Classic.
Marchán is favored after a lackluster season, and Caleb Ricketts, a Phillies prospect, could reach the majors if Marchán falters.

History

Historical Context

In 1961, Major League Baseball expanded by adding the New York Mets and the Houston Colt .45s, increasing its franchises to 16. This expansion was a response to the threat of the Continental League and reflected baseball's growing popularity, with attendance surpassing 18 million that year. The league has since evolved, with teams like the Philadelphia Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays preparing for the 2026 season.

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MLB Spring Training

Spring Training for the 2026 MLB season is underway as teams prepare for the regular season.
Notable matchups include the Philadelphia Phillies facing the Toronto Blue Jays and the Chicago White Sox versus the Chicago Cubs.
The Phillies and Blue Jays finished 2025 with 96–66 and 94–68 records, respectively.
The White Sox and Cubs finished 2025 with 60–102 and 92–70 records, respectively.

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