3/16 Morning Marquee: Chicago Cubs split in split-squad games

Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago split two games while the club was in split-squad action on Saturday afternoon. They fell 9-4 to the New York Mets in Las Vegas and earned a 6-5 win over the Kansas City Royals in Surprise, Ariz.

Around the league, the Washington Nationals acquired Brandon Laird from the Royals, the Atlanta Braves will stick to the plan even if Brandon Beachy needs Tommy John surgery, and the St. Louis Cardinals and Pittsburgh Pirates have seen prospects crack into their 40-man roster.

Cubbies Crib: Cubs rally late to top Royals 6-5

Cubbies Crib: Anthony Rizzo hits 2 HRs, Cubs fall 9-4

Chicago Tribune: Video: Cubs’ Bryant on Las Vegas homecoming

Chicago Sun-Times: Carlos Villanueva can do more than hold space in Cubs’ rotation

Daily Herald: Cubs to give Olt a try at third next week

ESPN Chicago: Kyle Hendricks sent down, but for how long?

CSN Chicago: Nate Schierholtz caught in middle of Cubs rebuild

Fox Sports: Braves plan to stand pat even if Brandon Beachy needs Tommy John surgery

CBS Sports: Matt Garza will try to kick Cubs’ teeth in every chance he gets

NBC Sports: Nationals acquire infielder Brandon Laird from the Royals

St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Piscotty jumps into picture with Cards

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Pirates option Gregory Polanco to Indianapolis

Cincinnati Enquirer: Bryan Price won’t play matchups with bullpen

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