As the start of the regular season draws closer, here are three things well be keeping an eye on around the baseball world heading into the weekend: 1. Roberts, Dodgers nearing extension? Working out an extension with longtime manager Dave Roberts has been a clear priority for the Dodgers all offseason, and yesterday indicated that the sides are not only making progre s towards a deal, but that an agreement is likely to be finalized before the clubs trip to Tokyo next week. With Roberts entering the final year of his contract, getting a deal done should be a major relief for both sides. Roberts has spent all but one game of his managerial career in Los Angeles, and the partnership has certainly been very fruitful. Since Roberts first took over as manager back in 2016, the Dodgers have a sensational 851-506 record with nine consecutive playoff appearances, two World Series championships and two additional NL pennants. 2. Rodriguez being evaluated: The Orioles are dealing with another injury scare, as manager Brandon Hyde told reporters (including ) that young right-hander is dealing with sorene s in his right triceps. A more comprehensive update Osvaldo Bido Jersey on Rodriguezs status is expected sometime today after they receive test results. Word of a potential triceps i sue comes just days after Rodriguez in a spring start against the Twins, one in which he felt sluggish and felt as though all of his pitches were flat, to use his own words. Its a concerning situation with Opening Day just three weeks away, especially for an Orioles club thats light on potential impact rotation talent after losing to free agency this past winter. If Rodriguez were to mi s time due to the i sue, the club would seem poised to utilize a quintet of , , , , and in the rotation, although youngsters like and could also be viable depth options. 3. Walker undergoing MRI: Astros manager Joe Espada told reporters (including ) yesterday that first baseman was headed back to Houston yesterday in order to undergo an MRI. Walkers been dealing with an ailing oblique in recent days, and depending on what the imaging reveals its po sible that the veteran wont be ready for Opening Day. That could clear playing time for last years first baseman to return to the lineup, though third baseman and backup catcher also have some level of experience at the position. Even so, the lo s of Walker for significant time would be a major blow to the club given his long track record of steady work on both sides of the ball in Arizona, which convinced Houston to offer him a three-year, $60MM deal this winter. Jp Sears Jersey