MLB News and Rumors: Miguel Rojas expected to step up in Gavin Lux's absence, Former big leaguer Dave Nicholson passes away, and more

March 1 is finally here, which means MLB Opening Day is less than a month away now. One of the teams that is most talked about in baseball right now is the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Last year, the Dodgers captured their 10th straight NL West division title and put on an absolute clinic in everything from offense to pitching. The Dodgers led the entire MLB in runs while simultaneously accuring the lowest team ERA in the league.

But a big blow came to the team this week when it was announced that infielder Gavin Lux has suffered a torn ACL, which will in all likelihood end the 25-year old's season. Lux hit a league-best seven triples last year, hitting seven home runs and 42 RBIs and appearing in 111 MLB contests at second base or shortstop.

With the injury, it is now expected that 34-year-old Venezuelan Miguel Rojas will fill in for Lux at second base. Rojas has spent the past nine years on the Miami Marlins, a stint that preceded his rookie 2014 year with the Dodgers. Rojas had similar numbers to Lux last season and started in yesterday's 7-1 loss to the Cincinnati Reds.

"With Gavin Lux likely out for a while, next man likely up for the Dodgers at shortstop is a dynamic defensive player. Miguel Rojas led shortstops in Good Fielding Plays last season. Some examples:" -ISIS_Baseball

In other news, the baseball world mourned the passing of a former player. Dave Nicholson passed away at the age of 83. Nicholson, born in 1939, played in the MLB from 1960 to 1967.

Nicholson began his career with the Baltimore Orioles, but made a name for himself playing with the Chicago White Sox. He is remembered for his 1964 home run that cleared the outfield bleachers at Comiskey Park in Chicago, with the ball later found across the street from the stadium.

"Former major league outfielder Dave Nicholson died over the weekend. He was 83 years old. #DaveNicholson #White Sox #MLB #RIP #Baseball" - Mark's Signing Bonus

MLB Baseball is finally just around the corner

Most teams will begin their seasons on March 30. While most teams have been hesitant to play their big names in these early stages of spring training, all teams will have the full extent of their respective talents on full display come Opening Day.