MLB Week in Review: Top Stories from Feb 13–20, 2026
From rule changes and broadcast news to injuries and uniforms, here’s what mattered in the Feb 13–20 window—and what it means for AthX.
1. MLB ABS Challenge System Debuts in 2026
MLB will use the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) Challenge System starting with the 2026 season. Each team gets two challenges per game on ball-strike calls (with additional challenges in extra innings). Teams receive unlimited challenges as long as they’re correct; losing two means no more until extra innings. The system, powered by T-Mobile, will be used at every MLB ballpark except the Mexico City Series, Field of Dreams game, and Little League Classic. It debuts on Opening Night when the Giants host the Yankees—the first-ever live MLB game on Netflix (March 25, 5 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. ET).
2. Tigers Unveil Navy and Orange Alternate Jerseys
The Detroit Tigers unveiled navy blue and orange alternate jerseys on February 19, after nearly two years of research and fan input. The designs feature the Olde English "D" and script "Detroit," with three-color striping on sleeves and V-necks inspired by the 1984 World Series championship team. Navy jerseys will be worn for select road games and orange for home games; they go on sale February 21.
3. Corbin Carroll Has Hamate Surgery, Targets Opening Day
Corbin Carroll (Diamondbacks) underwent surgery to remove a broken hamate bone from his right (non-throwing) hand after injuring it in live batting practice on February 10. He was back at Salt River Fields the next day in a soft cast. Hamate injuries typically require 6–8 weeks of recovery; Carroll is targeting Opening Day (late March). He will miss the 2026 World Baseball Classic (Team USA).
4. Jackson Holliday to Miss Opening Day After Hamate Surgery
Jackson Holliday (Orioles) had surgery on February 12 to repair a broken hamate bone in his right hand, sustained during batting practice on February 6. Dr. Steven Shin performed the procedure in Los Angeles. Holliday will miss Opening Day and start the season on the injured list; president of baseball ops Mike Elias said his return is "measured in weeks." Holliday played 149 games in 2025 (.242, 17 HR, 55 RBI). The Orioles had acquired Blaze Alexander the day before; he’ll see increased time at second base.
5. Anthony Volpe Progressing Toward Return After Labrum Surgery
Anthony Volpe (Yankees) had surgery in October 2025 to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder—an injury that proved more severe than initial imaging. He hurt the shoulder on May 3, 2025 diving at Yankee Stadium but played the rest of the season. As of mid-February 2026 he has begun dry swings and is fully in fielding drills, with diving the final step before clearance. He’s targeting a potential April return; Jose Caballero will hold shortstop until then. In 2025, Volpe hit .212/.272 in 153 games with 18 stolen bases.
6. MLB Opening Night 2026: Yankees vs. Giants on Netflix
Opening Night is set for Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 5 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. ET at Oracle Park (Giants host Yankees). The game will stream live globally on Netflix, included in all subscription plans—MLB’s first live game on the platform. Netflix will also stream the T-Mobile Home Run Derby (July 13) and MLB at Field of Dreams (Aug 13, Twins vs. Phillies) in 2026.
What It Means for AthX
ABS may slightly change how often borderline calls go for or against pitchers and hitters—dynamic pricing already reflects outcomes and playing time, so long-term impact is likely small. Carroll and Holliday will have discounted or uncertain value until they’re back; Blaze Alexander gets a short-term bump in opportunity. Volpe’s return in April could shift Yankees infield and Caballero’s usage. Use injury and role news to build or adjust your portfolio.
Full stories
*Sources: MLB.com, USA Today, ESPN, MLB Trade Rumors, AP, Baltimore Baseball, Arizona Sports, AzCentral, RotoBaller, Netflix Tudum, Pinstripes Nation, Empire Sports Media, NJ.com, Times Telegram, NY Post. Fact-checked February 20, 2026.*