Phillies get Jose Bautista from Mets

        The Philadelphia Phillies have acquired OF Jose Bautista from the New York Mets in exchange for cash or a player to be named later (PTBNL).

              For the Mets, Bautista was signed mid-season after being released by the Braves. So, he has a salary at league minimum. Bautista, a former all-star, wouldn't have a spot on the team, as Brandon Nimmo is returning from the DL. Also, there is no reason to have him on the team, as the team is bad, and he is just taking away time from younger players.

              For the Phillies, they are in the playoff run, and as a national league team, Bautista can be used to pinch hit for the pitcher down the stretch. He's also a good veteran to have on the team. They give up practically nothing for him, and pay him practically nothing, so they can't lose.

             Bautista, 37, has a .196 batting average, 11 homers, 42 RBIs and two steals in 342 Plate Appearances for the Mets and Atlanta Braves this season. In his MLB career for the Mets, Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, Pittsburgh Pirates, Baltimore Orioles, Kansas City Royals, and Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Bautista has a batting average of .247, with 342 homers, 969 RBIs and 56 stolen bases in 7167 Plate Appearances.

Phillies get lefty Luis Avilan

              The Philadelphia Phillies have acquired LHP Luis Avilan from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for RHP Felix Paulino.

               For the Phillies, they get a lefthanded arm that could help them down the stretch as they chase a playoff spot. They need to catch the Braves, and adding a reliever helps.

              Avilan, 29, has a 3.86 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 46 strikeouts in 39.2 innings. In his MLB career for the White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves, Avilan has a 3.09 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 271 strikeouts in 303 innings.

            For the White Sox, Avilan will be a free agent at the end of the year, and a failing White Sox team won't need him. They get an arm for the minor leagues in Paulino.

            Paulino, 22, has a 3.91 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and 74 strikeouts in 92 innings between High-A and Double-A this season.

Cardinals get Matt Adams again

    

The St. Louis Cardinals have acquired 1B Matt Adams from the Washington Nationals in exchange for cash considerations.

           For the Nats, they are giving up on the season, and are trading Adams since he will be a free agent at the end of the year. They get some cash back, but I think they could have gotten a prospect.

           For the Cardinals, Adams is a power hitting 1B who grew up in the system, and played in parts of six years in St. Louis. As the Cards are going for a playoff spot, Adams can help them get there.

           Adams, 29, will have his 30th birthday next week. He has hit .257 with 18 homers and 48 RBIs in 277 Plate Appearances. In his MLB career for the Nats, Cardinals and Atlanta Braves, Adams has a batting average of .269 with 93 home runs and 323 RBIs.

Cubs acquire Daniel Murphy

  The Chicago Cubs have acquired 2B Dan Murphy from the Washington Nationals in exchange for INF Andruw Monasterio.

            For the Nats, a decline has made them give up on the season. Trading Murphy and Matt Adams shows that. Murphy, a pending free agent, made the all-star team in two of his three season in Washington. Injuries limited him in 2018 from making the team. They get Monasterio, a young infielder in exchange for Murphy.

            Monasterio, 21, has a .263 batting average, three homers, 31 RBIs and 10 stolen bases in 436 Plate Appearances for High-A Myrtle Beach.

            For the Cubs, this improves their team. But it doesn't make much sense. All-star Javier Baez and Ian Happ already play 2B. Star 3B Kris Bryant is at 3B, but is currently on the DL. Until he returns, Baez probably will play third, with Murphy at 2nd. A rental, this trade will definitely make the Cubs better.

             Murphy, 33, has a .300 batting average, six homers and 29 RBIs in 205 Plate Appearances for the Nats this year. In his MLB career for the Nats and New York Mets, Murphy has a batting average of .299, 116 homers, 628 RBIs and 65 stolen bases in 4999 Plate Appearances

Where will Manny Machado go?

  So, as you all should know, there is a very big MLB free agent class coming up. This includes superstars Manny Machado, Bryce Harper, Josh Donaldson, Dallas Keuchel, Craig Kimbrel and Andrew Miller. Chris Sale, Madison Bumgarner and Clayton Kershaw could also be free agents, if they opt out of their contract (Bumgarner's is a team option). Stars like Zach Britton, Brian Dozier, David Robertson, Kelvin Herrera, Cole Hamels, Gio Gonzalez, Nelson Cruz, Andrew McCutchen, Mike Moustakas, AJ Pollock, Adrian Beltre, Daniel Murphy, DJ LeMahieu, Justin Smoak, (opt out) and Wilson Ramos are also free agents. There are so many other potential free agents, just go here for the full list [MLB Trade Rumors]. So, in the following months to come before the free agency that will break records, I'll be doing a series making a case for every team's case to sign these big time players. Since not every team has a legitimate chance to sign these players, teams with a star (*) are the teams that I think have a legitimate chance. To start the series off, we have who I think is the player to get the most money, Dodgers SS/3B Manny Machado.

            Arizona Diamondbacks
 Jake Lamb has had a bad season filled with injuries, and the D-backs could trade him. Ketel Marte could get some interest around the league. Eduardo Escobar may not return, opening another spot.

            Atlanta Braves
 Dansby Swanson hasn't done much to prove he's a starter in the MLB.

            Baltimore Orioles
It's always been Machado's team, and even though they are blowing it up, he might want to go back.

            Boston Red Sox
He's better than Rafael Devers and Xander Bogaerts. Yeah, no shot of him coming here.

            Chicago Cubs*
Addison Russell isn't anything special on offense, and Machado is a much better defender. The Cubs were one of the teams trying to trade for Machado, and will be one of the teams trying to sign him.

            Chicago White Sox*
The White Sox were aggressively pursuing Machado this postseason, and as a team trying to rebuild now, but contend in 2-4 years, Machado on a long term deal could really quicken the process. Tim Anderson could then be traded for a starter.

            Cincinnati Reds
Jose Peraza is no superstar, and could be traded along with Dilson Herrera for pitching. Machado would then be the SS.


           Cleveland Indians
Honesty, Fransisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez are both better than him. Next!

            Colorado Rockies
Once again, he isn't going here. They could trade Trevor Story, but doing that and signing Machado to a big deal isn't worth it. Pursuing one of the big starters is.


            Detroit Tigers
Jose Iglesias could move to 2B, but as a really bad team, Machado wouldn't go to Detroit.


            Houston Astros
He could move to third and the team could trade Alex Bregman, but that's not happening, especially since Bregman is a young all-star.

            Kansas City Royals
Alcides Escobar isn't really that good, and Mike Moustakas was traded. As one of the worst teams in the league, Machado isn't going there.


            Los Angeles Angels(*)
They would get rid of Andrelton Simmons, but they could trade Zack Cozart (or move him to 2B), and put Machado back at third.


            Los Angeles Dodgers
Machado's current team, the Dodgers will get Corey Seager back from injury next year. They could trade Justin Turner, but that isn't happening. If you are questioning why they'd do that, just know that I have to make a case for every team. 

            Miami Marlins
Machado is from Miami. Heck, even his player's weekend name was "Mr. Miami". But, the Marlins are now a joke of an organization, so he wouldn't go there.

            Milwaukee Brewers(*)
Ex Orioles teammate Jonathan Schoop is currently their shortstop, but if Mike Moustakas doesn't return, then they can move Travis Shaw back to third base, and Schoop to his natural position of 2B. That opens up a spot for Machado. Consider them a dark horse team.

            Minnesota Twins
The Twins traded away Brian Dozier and Eduardo Escobar, and Miguel Sano is having a bad year. They could trade Sano, move Jorge Polanco to third, opening up a spot for Machado.

            New York Mets
 Amed Rosario would garner a lot of trade interest, as a 22 year old MLB starting shortstop. They could trade him and sign Machado, but he's been getting hot lately, and the Mets wouldn't want to trade him.


            New York Yankees(*)
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, a friend of Machado said that Machado's first choice would be the Yankees, and he'd give up shortstop to play for them. Since 1B Greg Bird has never played a full season, and struggling in his first full one, and the team might lose J.A. Happ, C.C. Sabathia and Lance Lynn, the team could trade Bird for a starter, move 3B and AL rookie of the year favorite Miguel Andujar to 1st base, and sign Machado, putting him at 3rd.

            Oakland A's (*)
The A's are having a surprising season, and are fighting for a wild card spot. Also, they could only go up. Their current SS, Marcus Semien, could be traded for more pitching, and Machado could fit in well. Another dark horse team.

            Philadelphia Phillies (*)
 Asdrubal Cabrera might leave, creating an opening at shortstop. Enter Machado to an already young, rising team, and you got a division winner.

            Pittsburgh Pirates
Prospect Kevin Newman was just called up. They could trade him and sign Machado, But it won't happen.


            San Diego Padres 
The team signed Eric Hosmer to try and compete in a tough division. Why not Machado?


            San Fransisco Giants
In case they want to abandon all-star Brandon Crawford. Next!


            Seattle Mariners
 Same as the Giants but with Jean Segura. Next!


            St Louis Cardinals(*)
There was such a thing as a half star, that's what they'd be. They re probably going after Josh Donaldson to fill their hole at 3B. If Machado would switch to third, perfect fit. If not... Next!

           Tampa Bay Rays
 One of their top prospects Willy Adames is there, and the team is bad. He won't go here.

            Texas Rangers
Elvis Andrus could be a free agent if he opts out, so that would open up a spot.

           Toronto Blue Jays
If Machado wants to go to another country, eh.

           Washington Nationals
They have Trea Turner, and are going to be focused on signing Bryce Harper.

Jay traded to D-backs for Speier, Luciano

              The Arizona Diamondbacks have acquired outfielder Jon Jay from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for LHP Gabe Speier and RHP Elvis Luciano.

               For the D-backs, A.J. Pollack's injury has caused some problems for them. David Peralta, Chris Owings and Jarrod Dyson are the only outfielders on the roster, and Owings also plays middle infield. Getting a rental 4th outfielder until Pollack returns will help. Also, Jay could just start in center or right, with Owings and short some games, though Daniel Descalco and Nick Ahmed will play mostly at short (and Ketel Marte and short and second). The don't give up much, just two low leveled pitching prospects.

               Jay, 33, has a .307 batting average, one homer, 18 RBIs and three stolen bases in 266 Plate Appearances for the Royals this season. In his MLB career for the Royals, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres and St. Louis Cardinals, Jay has a .290 batting average, with 34 home runs, 305 RBIs and 54 stolen bases in 3742 Plate Appearances.

               For the Royals, they are one of the worst teams in the league. To hold on the rentals would make no sense. Jay is by no means an all-star, so the price of return makes sense. They are both low leveled prospects, and are risks.

               Speier, 23, has a 3.08 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 193 strikeouts in 234 innings in his minor leagues.

               Luciano, 18, hasn't pitched in 2018, but had a 2.84 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 52 strikeouts in 66.2 innings in 2017, his only professional season.

              I think this is an even trade. The Diamondbacks get the rental they need, and the Royals get the prospects they need. That is why this is an even trade.

Mariners, Rays make trade

             The Seattle Mariners have acquired RHP Alex Colome and OF Denard Span from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for RHPs Andrew Moore and Tommy Romero.

              For the Mariners, injuries to their core players, like CF Dee Gordon (we'll get into that later) and 2B Robinson Cano's 80 game suspension have tried to stop the M's from being contenders. This trade shows that they aren't out of it yet. In a division with the Astros and Angels, two very good teams, it will be hard for the team to make the postseason. Colome was the Rays closer, but with Edwin Diaz as the team's closer, Colome will probably be the set up man for Seattle. With Gordon out, Span will temporarily be the starting center fielder, then go to 4th outfielder when everyone is healthy. Span is a pending free agent, and Colome is under team control through 2021.

              Colome, 29, has a 4.15 ERA, 1.48 WHIP, 23 strikeouts and 11 saves in 21.2 innings for the Rays this year. In his MLB career, all in Tampa Bay, Colome has a 3.21 ERA with a 1.24 WHIP, 265 strikeouts and 95 saves in 294.1 innings.

              Span, 24, has a .238 batting average with four homers, 28 RBIs and six steals in 173 Plate Appearances for the Rays this year. In his MLB career for the Rays, San Fransisco Giants, Washington Nationals and Minnesota Twins, Span has a batting average of .282 with 64 homers, 460 RBIs and 182 stolen bases in 5628 Plate Appearances.

              For the Rays, they unload two players, but I think they could have gotten more for them, especially Colome. Moore is a younger pitcher with a very small amount of MLB experience . Romero is a young, lower leveled prospect.

              Moore, who will turn 24 a week from the day of the trade, hasn't played in the majors this year. Last year, his only year, featured Moore with a 5.34 ERA, with a WHIP of 1.15 and 31 strikeouts in 59 innings.

            Romero, 20, has a 2.45 ERA with 54 strikeouts in 44 innings for Class A this year.

Welington Castillo suspended 80 games for EPO

           Chicago White Sox catcher Welington Castillo has been suspended 80 games without pay after testing positive for Erythropoietin (EPO), a PED that is in violation of Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. The 31-year old veteran catcher released the following statement through the MLBPA (Major League Baseball Player's Association):

              "I was recently notified by Major League Baseball that I had tested positive for EPO, a substance that is prohibited under MLB's Joint Drug Agreement. The positive test resulted from an extremely poor decision that I, and I alone, made. I take full responsibility for my conduct. I have let many people down, including my family, my teammates, the White Sox organization and its fans, and from my heart, I apologize. Following my suspension, I look forward to rejoining my teammates and doing whatever I can to help the White Sox win."

            Castillo, a first year White Sox player, was signed by the club this offseason to a two year, $15 million deal with an $8 million option for 2020. He was brought in to help young pitching prospects like Lucas Giolito, Reynaldo Lopez, Michael Kopech and Carson Fulmer develop. The White Sox are struggling mightily this year, and are tied with Kansas City Royals for last in not just the AL Central, but the MLB as well. When Castillo returns from the suspension, there will be 35 games remaining in the season. An 80 game period is a long run, and could give the 4 catchers on the 40 man right now (Omar Narvaez, Kevin Smith, Alfredo Gonzalez and Dustin Garneau) a chance to shine, or prospects that are a little lower down, like Zack Collins and Seby Zavala a very small chance, but still a chance, to be called up to the show.

             Castillo, 31, has a .267 batting average, six homers and 15 RBIs in 123 Plate Appearances for the White Sox this year. In his career for the White Sox, Chicago Cubs, Baltimore Orioles, Seattle Mariners and Arizona Diamondbacks, Castillo has a batting average of .259, with 86 homers and 298 RBIs in 2392 Plate Appearances.

Mets trade Matt Harvey for Devin Mesoraco

            The Cincinnati Reds have acquired RHP Matt Harvey from the New York Mets in exchange for C Devin Mesoraco.

         

   For the Reds, they get Harvey, a player who has struggled to be productive the last three years, and make another all-star appearance since starting the game for the hometown Mets in the 2013 game. Partying and breaking team rules have been recent issues for Harvey, who was DFA'd after declining an AAA option. Going to a weak Cincinnati team pushes Harvey out of the New York spotlight, which could help him regain success.

            Harvey, 29, has a 7.00 ERA with a 1.55 WHIP and 20 strikeouts in 27 innings this season for the Mets. In his MLB career, all for New York, Harvey has a 3.66 ERA, with a 1.19 WHIP and 612 strikeouts in 639.1 innings.

            For the Mets, they were clearly done with Harvey after his last partying incident, in Los Angeles. They said they were confident they would be able to trade him, and they did. With catcher Travis d'Arnaud out for the year, catching help is needed. Mesoraco, a 2014 all-star, has never played a full season. The closest he has come to one was in '14, where he hit 25 homers in 440 Plate Appearances. But, health has always been an issue for him. He lost the catching job to defensive sensation Tucker Barnhart, so the trade feels right.
 
             Mesoraco, 30, has hit .220 with one homer and three RBIs in 45 Plate Appearances this season. In his MLB career, all in Cincy, Mesoraco has a batting average of .234 with 48 homers and 162 RBIs in 1345 Plate Appearances.

              I think this is an even trade. Both players clearly need a change, and get one here. I think that Harvey has more upside, but Mesoraco has a better chance to help his team.

Yanks acquire A.J. Cole

             The New York Yankees have acquired RHP A.J. Cole from the Washington Nationals in exchange for cash considerations, and have DFA'd RHP David Hale.

             Lacking pitching depth to go behind sort starts, Cole is a starter/reliever they need, and they get him for a decent price. Cole was the 5th starter for the Nats after injuries, and could be a bargain for the Yanks.

             Cole, 26, has a 13.06 ERA with 10 strikeouts and a 2.13 WHIP in 10.1 innings for the Nats this year. In his MLB career, all in Washington, Cole has a 5.32 ERA, 1.51 WHIP and 102 strikeouts in 110 innings.

             Hale, 30, made his Yankees and season debut yesterday, pitching two scoreless innings with three strikeouts. In his MLB career for the Yankees, Colorado Rockies and Atlanta Braves, Hale has a 4.43 ERA, with a 1.46 WHIP and 123 strikeouts in 180.2 innings.

2018 Yankees preview

               With help from Rookie of the Year winner and MVP runner-up Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees finished 2nd in the AL East with a 91-71 record, which was good enough for the first Wild card spot. After beating the Minnesota Twins in that game and the Cleveland Indians in the ALDS, the Yanks fell to the Houston Astros in the ALCS. Needing to add, the Yanks had a productive offseason. Let's take a look at it.

                 Notable additions: OF Giancarlo Stanton, 3B Brandon Drury, 2B Neil Walker, LHP Wade LeBlanc, INF Jace Pederson, OF Shane Robinson.

                 Notable subtractions: 2B Starlin Castro, DH Matt Holliday, 3B Todd Frazier, LHP Jaime Garcia, 1B Garrett Cooper, RHP Michael Pineda, LHP Caleb Smith, 3B Chase Headley, RHP Bryan Mitchell, OF Mason Williams, 1B Ji-Man Choi.

                What they did well: Giancarlo Stanton

                What they did bad: Frazier should of been re-signed, but traded for Drury instead, but that's okay because Drury is much younger.

                Sneaky Sleeper: One of baseball's best relievers, Chad Green had his first full season in the bullpen in 2017 (he gets credit for one spot start early in the season, but it was only about 2 innings of work for him). Green struck out 103 batters in 2017 in just 69 innings, allowing just 14 runs in that time (1.83 ERA). They considered moving him to the rotation in 2018, but it won't happen for now. Green is really good, and not everyone knows it.

               Incoming outbreak: If I told you to name one player who blossomed with the Yankees after an Arizona stint, you'd name Didi Gregorius. The same thing could happen to Brandon Drury. Featured in a late offseason three team trade, Drury hit 13 homers and had a .267 average in 2017, I'd say about league average. Maybe a change of scenery to a better team could help him.

               Unsuspected slump: This will hurt to say as a Yankee fan, but their fourth best reliever is Dellin Betances. It goes David Robertson, Green, Aroldis Chapman, then Betances. Betancces has had late season troubles in his career, and struggled in the postseason. His stats show a career 2.29 ERA, and a 14.4 K/9. His postseason numbers show a 4.76 ERA, and though he still strikes guys out, his ERA has risen the last two seasons. I think he's just slightly overrated.

               Blue-chip Bopper: Though Stanton led the league in homers and was the NL MVP, Aaron Judge is still the team's best player. Judge hit 52 homers in his rookie season, and still maintained a .422 OBP. Judge is one of the best players out there.

                 Astounding ace: In his big breakout season, Luis Severino rebounded big in 2017, with a 2.98 ERA and 230 strikeouts, and finished third in CY Young voting. One of baseball's youngest aces, Severino still has many years to dominate.

             Here's the Yankees' projected roster, starting with their lineup.

 LF Brett Gardner (L)
 RF Aaron Judge (R)
 DH Giancarlo Stanton (R)
 SS Didi Gregorius (L)
 C Gary Sanchez (R)
 1B Greg Bird (L)
 CF Aaron Hicks (S)
 2B Neil Walker (S)
 3B Brandon Drury (R)

                Here's their projected rotation.

 RHP Luis Severino
 RHP Masahiro Tanaka
 LHP C.C. Sabathia
 RHP Sonny Gray
 LHP Jordan Montgomery

  Aroldis Chapman (L) is their closer, with Chad Green (R), David Robertson (R), Dellin Betances (R), Tommy Kahnle (R), Adam Warren (R), Chasen Shreve (L) and Domingo German (R) are in the bullpen.

 C Austin Romine (R), 2B Tyler Wade (L) and INF Ronald Torreyes (R) are on the bench.

   Finally, for my prediction, I think the Yankees, a rising but very good team, will make the playoffs in 2018.

2018 Boston Red Sox preview

            With one of baseball's best outfields, and a young one at that, the Boston Red Sox finished 1st in the AL East with a 93-69 record. But, they lost to the eventual World Series winning Houston Astros in the ALDS. With their rivals, the New York Yankees, improving, the Red Sox needed to improve too. Let's take a look at their offseason.

            Notable additions: OF J.D. Martinez.

            Notable subtractions: OF Chris Young, INF Josh Rutledge, OF Rajai Davis, LHP Fernando Abad, RHP Blaine Boyer, RHP Addison Reed, RHP Doug Fister.

             What they did well: They needed a power hitter after David Ortiz's retirement after 2016. Martinez is that guy, hitting 45 homers in 2017. As a righty, Fenway Park is a very good place to hit. Also, they re-signed Eduardo Nunez because of Dustin Pedroia's injury, and Mitch Moreland because he's better than Hanley Ramirez.

               What they did bad: They didn't add much pitching depth. But, they have lots of depth already. I find it odd how there wasn't one replacement for Reed, Boyer and Abad.

              Sneaky sleeper: with near Cy Young winner Chris Sale, plus winners David Price and Rick Porcello in the rotation, it's very, very easy to overlook Drew Pomeranz. But, Pomeranz has had a 3.32 ERA in both 2016 and 2017, and struck out 360 batters in 344.1 innings over the two year span. He is quietly their second best starter.

                 Incoming outbreak: After being called up late in 2017, Rafael Devers went supernova, hitting 10 homers, 30 RBIs and had a .284 average in just 240 Plate Appearances. That secured himself the starting third base job. Expect even more from the now 21 year old.

                  Unsuspected setback: Well, there's a couple guys who could suffer setback in 2018. Expected to be injured until May, Dustin Pedroia hasn't showed too many signs of slowing down. But, the now 34 year old is in a fight for his job, as Eduardo Nunez will probably be the opening day second basemen. Pedroia needs to step up after he returns. Just a year removed from a Cy Young win, Rick Porcello had another rough year, and led the league in losses, a year after being the win king. With the rise of Pomeranz, Porcello is now just their third starter. The final guy, Hanley Ramirez, will suffer the most from the Martinez signing. Going in to the offseason, he looked like the opening day 1B. Then, they signed Mitch Moreland, moving him to DH. The Martinez signing moves him to the bench. That can't really help his numbers.

                   Blue-chip bopper: despite the Martinez signing, Mookie Betts is still their best position player. He has over 100 RBIs in the last two seasons, and 55 homers in them combined. His career .351 OBP is something to be proud of. Also, I didn't mention he is an amazing fielder.

                   Astounding ace: This past year's Cy Young runner-up, Chris Sale has finished top 6 in the voting every season since 2012. But, he's somehow never won. He's basically the Buffalo Bills of the 90s. In 2017, he reached 300 strikeouts, and a 2.90 ERA in 214.1 innings. If it wasn't for a rocky finish, he would've won the Cy Young.

                Here is the Red Sox projected roster, first with their lineup (injured players aren't named).

 2B Eduardo Nunez (R)
 RF Mookie Betts (R)
 LF Andrew Benintendi (L)
 DH J.D. Martinez (R)
 1B Mitch Moreland (L)
 SS Xander Bogaerts (R)
 3B Rafael Devers (L)
 CF Jackie Bradley Jr. (L)
 C Christian Vasquez (R)

       Here's their rotation.

 LHP Chris Sale
 LHP Drew Pomeranz
 RHP Rick Porcello
 LHP David Price
 LHP Brian Johnson

 Craig Kimbrel (R) is their closer, with Carson Smith (R), Tyler Thornburg (R), Robby Scott (L), Matt Barnes (R) and Heath Hembree (R) also in the bullpen.

 1B Hanley Ramirez (R), C Sandy Leon (S), U Brock Holt (L) and Deven Marrero (R) are on the bench.

 For my prediction, I think the Red Sox will run away with the 1st wild card spot in the American League, and make the playoffs.

2018 Baltimore Orioles season preview

            In a very disappointing season, the Baltimore Orioles finished in last place in the AL East, with a 75-87 record. Only the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers finished with less wins in the AL (they tied with the A's). With their division top two teams getting more competitive (Red Sox and Yankees). To at least try to make their team better, GM Dan Duquette had his work cut out for him. Let's take a look at his most recent offseason.

            Notable additions: RHP Andrew Cashner, OF Colby Rasmus, OF Jaycob Brugman, C Andrew Susac, OF Alex Presley, RHP Jhan Marinez, LHP Josh Edgin.

            Notable subtractions: C Welington Castillo, OF Seth Smith, SS J.J. Hardy, LHP Wade Miley, RHP Ubaldo Jimenez, RHPs Jeremy Hellickson, Tyler Wilson, INF Ryan Flaherty.

             What they did well: Cashner is a nice addition to a falling bullpen. They are also trying to trust the kids, and didn't add too much.

               What they did bad: They let Castillo walk without a substitution. He's a very good catcher. Unless Chance Sisco is ready to catch full time, their catching situation will look ugly with Caleb Joseph starting.

                Sneaky sleeper: You won't see too many middle relievers on these categories, but for the O's they have one, and a lefty at that. In just two seasons for the O's and Yankees, Richard Bleier has posted a 1.98 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP. But, there is one thing about Bleier that puts him in a different category than other relievers. He doesn't strike guys out. In his 86.1 innings of MLB time, Bleier has just 39 strikeouts, for a pity 4.1 K/9 rate. Luckily, he's been able to get guys out other ways, and get past many people's eyes, including mine.

                   Incoming outbreak: He may or may not get many ABs in 2018, but with Smith's departure, OF Austin Hays could get a chance to be the opening day right fielder. If he can beat out Joey Rickard, plus non-roster invitees Jaycob Brugman and Colby Rasmus for it. Hays was a September call-up in 2017, but struggled in 60 ABs, with a .217 batting average and .238 OBP. Still, I have faith in Hays.

                     Unsuspected slump: With 26 homers in 2017, Chris Davis wasn't very effective, as his power numbers fell. We all know his contract was a bad one. If a guy has hit under .220 in the last two seasons combined, with over 400 strikeouts in that time, you know his numbers can't be too much more positive in one year.

                     Blue-chip Bopper: Once a top three third baseman, a move back to shortstop, his original position, makes Manny Machado now a top three shortstop. We all know he can play the position. His arm and defensive skills will back that up. Also, you know you're doing well when you've hit over 100 homers and had a stable batting average in each of the last three seasons. Even with a career worst .259 mark in 2017, Machado is still a top infielder.

                        Astounding ace: With a really bad pitching staff, plus all-star closer Zach Britton to be injured for about the first half of the season, it's hard to find an ace here. I'll go with Kevin Gausman, right in his prime. Gausman had a setback year in 2017, with a 4.68 ERA and 179 strikeouts in 186.2 innings. But, his stellar 2016 suggest Gausman isn't too far away from leading a pitching staff, like he'll be forced to do in 2018.

       Here is the 2018 projected roster for the Baltimore Orioles, starting with their lineup.

 3B Tim Beckham (R)
 SS Manny Machado (R)
 1B Chris Davis (L)
 2B Jonathan Schoop (R)
 OF Adam Jones (R)
 DH Mark Trumbo (R)
 LF Trey Mancini (R)
 C Chance Sisco (L)
 RF Austin Hays (R)

           Here's their rotation.

 RHP Kevin Gausman
 RHP Dylan Bundy
 RHP Andrew Cashner
 RHP Chris Tillman
 RHP Alec Asher

  Brad Brach (R) is their closer, with Darren O'Day (R), Donnie Hart (L), Richard Bleier (L), Mychal Givens (R), Miguel Castro (R) and Jimmy Yacabonis (R) also in the bullpen.

  OF Joey Rickard (R), C Caleb Joseph (R), OF Colby Rasmus (L) and INF Ruben Tejada (R) are on the bench.

 Finally, for my prediction, I thin the O's a right handed dominant team in a strong division, will not make the playoffs in 2018, and finish 4th in the East.

MLB news: Lucroy, Moustakas finally sign

         The best player at two different positions on the free agent market were crossed off the board earlier today. Mike Moustakas, a third baseman formerly of the Royals, signed back in Kansas City on a one year, $6.5 million deal, with options that can make it a $22 million deal for the single season Royals home run leader. Catcher Jonathan Lucroy, who spent 2017 with the Texas Rangers and Colorado Rockies, signed a one year deal with the Oakland Athletics, with no financial terms announced.

            For Moustakas, this is a horrible deal for him. He could of gotten way more, and a multi-year deal if he signed earlier. For the Royals, they at least were able to return one of their three free agent stars (they were Lorenzo Cain, who signed in Milwaukee, Moustakas and Eric Hosmer, who went to San Diego). It is a cheap deal, and they are lucky that there wasn't a big free agent market.

             Moustakas, 29, hit .272 with 38 home runs and 85 RBIs in 598 Plate Appearances for the Royals in 2017, in his MLB career, all in Kansas City, Moustakas has a batting average of .251, with 119 homers and 379 RBIs in 3318 Plate Appearances.

              For Lucroy, he is coming off a rough 2017, but he still would've gotten more if he signed earlier. I'm surprised there wasn't a big market for him, since most catchers, well, can't hit at all. He won't get too much money, I imagine, but he'll get over a million dollars, at least.

               Lucroy, 31, had a .265 batting average, six homers and 40 RBIs in 481 Plate Appearances for the Rockies and Rangers in 2017. In his MLB career for those two teams, plus the Milwaukee Brewers, Lucroy has hit .281 with 96 homers and 458 RBIs in 3786 Plate Appearances.

2018 Tampa Bay Rays Season Preview

The Tampa Bay Rays look a lot different now then what we thought we would look like at the end of last year coming into the season. Franchise 3rd baseman Evan Longoria, who seemed basically untouchable has been traded to the Giants. Corey Dickerson, gone. Logan Morrison, gone. Jake Odorizzi, gone. This is a whole new team that has a lot to learn with each other before the season starts. This team has basically been split apart completely but in the end I believe it's for the best.

When the Rays traded away these star players we got plenty of good prospects to help out the farm system and some can even play for the Rays in the big leagues this season. The Rays also signed veteran OF Carlos Gomez to a 1 yr contract. This could bring some balance of experience to the young team we have coming in. Overall the team's Outfield is going to be strong with Carlos Gomez, Kevin Keirmaier, and possibly Mallex Smith. The team also brings some really good pitchers in assuming Chris Archer stays healthy. Blake Snell has really shown improvement over the last couple of seasons and even though we lost prospect Brent Honeywell to Tommy John Surgery this could be a pretty stacked rotation which according to Rays Manager Kevin Cash will include 4 pitchers this season.

With the way this team is built I believe the Rays can snatch the final Wild Card spot in the AL and come in 3rd in the AL East. Will be a team to watch for in the upcoming 2018 season.
Alex Mesa

Atlanta Braves season preview

             In one of the worst divisions in baseball, minus the Washington Nationals, the Atlanta Braves finished 72-90, once again disappointing their fans. Even though superstar 1B Freddie Freeman showed MVP potential in the start of the season, an injury kept him out for the middle of the year. With Ronald Acuna and Ozzie Albies expected to get extended playing time, the Braves have a developing year ahead of them. Let's take a look at their offseason.

              Notable additions: RHP Brandon McCarthy, LHP Scott Kazmir, INF Charlie Culberson, RHP Peter Moylan, INF Christian Colon.

               Notable subtractions: OF Matt Kemp, 2B Brandon Phillips, 3B Adonis Garcia, 1B Matt Adams, INF Jace Peterson, U Emilio Bonifacio, RHP R.A. Dickey, LHP Ian Krol.

              What they did well: They unloaded the Kemp contract, but took on Kazmir's and Adrian Gonzalez (who was DFA'd)'s deals. The trade frees up more money for the future, but tighter on them now, when they don't need it as much.

               What they didn't do well: Their outgoing players, Kemp, Phillips and Garcia, weren't replaced by anyone. That means they are leaving it to the young guys, Acuna, Albies and Johan Camargo to get it done. I'm surprised they didn't add a vet like Chase Utley to back up Camargo and Albies, plus a Jarrod Dyson or Rajai Davis to play, since Acuna will probably miss the first six weeks (thus is why he isn't on the projected roster below) so they can keep a year of arbitration on him.

                  Sneaky Sleeper: He may not even be starting on opening day, with a battle between him and Kurt Suzuki going on, but Tyler Flowers quietly had a fine 2017. In just 346 at bats, Flowers hit 14 homers, pretty good for a catcher. If given the starting job, Flowers could challenge twenty homers.

                  Incoming outbreak: There's two 21 year olds I considered putting here, so I'll put them both. As their second baseman, Ozzie Albies was decent as a 20 year old in a short 2017 stint. He hit .286 and stole eight bases in 244 Plate Appearances. One of two young guns expected to make the rotation, Luiz Gohara wasn't as good as Albies in 2017, with a 4.91 ERA in 29.1 innings. More innings, and Gohara will succeed.

                  Unsuspected slump: In his career, Nick Markakis has always been an iron man, playing in 1,839 games in his 11 year career. He played 147 games in his rookie year, and that is still the lowest amount of games he's ever played in. Plus, he's always had a good batting average, with the career mark standing at .288. But, he's lost his power. Most players also lose their ability to keep a high batting average as they age. Markakis might be one of those players this year.

                   Blue-chip Bopper: We all know the answer, I'll say it five times: Freddie Freeman, Freddie Freeman, Freddie Freeman, Freddie Freeman, oh, and Freddie Freeman. Freeman hit 28 homers and had a .307 batting average in just 440 at bats in 2017. He's arguably the second best first baseman in the league, behind Paul Goldschmidt.

                   Astounding ace: Despite a rough 2017 where he had a 4.49 ERA, and was a disappointment to my fantasy team, Julio Teheran is still their best starter by far. He has pitched at least 185 innings in each of the last five seasons. Not many starters can boast of that. He still has a career 3.59 ERA, after an ugly year.

                   Here is the Braves projected roster, starting with their lineup.

 CF Ender Inciarte (L)
 2B Ozzie Albies (S)
 1B Freddie Freeman (L)
 C Tyler Flowers (R)
 RF Nick Markakis (L)
 SS Dansby Swanson (R)
 3B Johan Carmago (S)
 LF Lane Adams (R)
 Pitcher

               Here is their rotation:
 RHP Julio Teheran
 RHP Mike Foltynewicz
 LHP Sean Newcomb
 LHP Luiz Gohara
 RHP Brandon McCarthy

  Arodys Vizcaino (R) is their closer, with Scott Kazmir (L), Peter Moylan (R), Aaron Blair (R) and Sam Freeman (L) also in the pen.

 C Kurt Suzuki (R), U Danny Santana (S), INF Charlie Culberson (R), 3B Rio Ruiz (L) and eventually OF Ronald Acuna (R) are on the bench.

 Finally, for my prediction, I think the Braves, a team on the rise, will not make the playoffs in 2018.

Arizona Diamondbacks Season Preview

By @carterhudblog

          In 2017, the Arizona Diamondbacks finished with a record of 93-69, and they ended up running away with the 1st wild card spot in the National League, with a six game lead over the Colorado Rockies, who the D-Backs beat in that game. But, the Los Angeles Dodgers swept Arizona in the NLDS. With star rental J.D. Martinez heading free agency, like all rentals, GM Mike Hazen had some moves to make. Let's take a look at what the D-backs did last offseason.

             Notable additions: OF Steven Souza, RHP Yoshihisa Hirano, OF Jarrod Dyson, C Alex Avila, RHP Brad Boxberger, LHP Antonio Bastardo, RHPs Neftali Feliz, Michael Blazek, Kris Medlen, Fernando Salas, OF Ramon Flores.

             Notable subtractions: OF J.D. Martinez, INF Brandon Drury, C Chis Iannetta, RHPs Fernando Rodney, J.J. Hoover, RHP David Hernandez, OF Gregor Blanco, INF Adam Rosales, LHP Anthony Banda.

              What they did well in the offseason: They didn't try to replace Martinez with an overpayment of Martinez or someone else. Avila and Souza might hit less homers combined in 2018 than Martinez, but with an already completed outfield, and no DH, it's understandable to let him walk. Also, the Added some relievers looking for redemption to minor league deals. See: Bastardo, Blazek, and especially Feliz and Medlen. Those are guys who could break the opening day roster. Hirano is coming from Japan, and should be a better closer than Rodney was.

              What they did bad: Not much. It would be nice to re-sign Martinez, but spending over $100 million for a guy when you already have your team set isn't worth it. It was a smart pass.

               Sneaky Sleeper: Expected to be the fifth starter with Shelby Miller still recovering with Tommy John surgery, Zack Godley had an underrated 2017, with a 3.37 ERA and 165 strikeouts in 155 innings. If he can get enough innings and stay healthy, Godley can be a good 5th starter for them.

               Unsuspected slump: After a very successful 2016, Yasmany Tomas hit just .241, and a .294 OBP. Entering his prime, I still don't think Tomas will come close to the 31 homers he hit in 2016. Plus, the addition of Souza could limit his playing time.

               Incoming outbreak: Ketel Marte didn't play too much in the first half, but an increase in second half games led him to a still light 255 Plate Appearances. His .345 OBP is something he'll look to keep going. Even though he has a career .265 batting average, he has a very good career .314 BABIP. That is a stat that can be great one year, and be horrible the next, but if Marte can maintain his success there, it'll be a fine year.With the trade of Drury, he'll get more ABs in 2018.

                Blue chip Bopper: Paul Goldschmidt has made the last five all-star teams. He's hit thirty homers three times, and would've hit it four times if not for injuries. He's reached 100 RBIs those three years. He's undoubtedly not just their best player, but the best 1st baseman in the league.

                Astounding ace: A really bad first season in the desert had some questioning the $206.5 million deal the D-Backs signed Donald Greinke to (you may know him by his middle name, Zack). But, Greinke rebounded in 2017, with a 3.20 ERA and 215 strikeouts in 202.1 innings. Even a year worse than 2017 should still leave Greinke as their ace.

               This is probably what you came for, but here is the D-Backs projected roster, starting with their lineup.

 SS Ketel Marte (S)
 CF A.J. Pollock (R)
 1B Paul Goldschmidt (R)
 3B Jake Lamb (L)
 LF David Peralta (L)
 RF Steven Souza (L)
 C Alex Avila (L)
 2B Chris Owings (R)
 Pitcher

             Here is their rotation.

 RHP Zack Greinke
 LHP Robbie Ray
 LHP Patrick Corbin
 RHP Taijaun Walker
 RHP Zack Godley

 Yoshihisa Hirano (R) will be their closer, with Archie Bradley (R) and Brad Boxberger (R) in the set-up roles. Neftali Feliz (R), Antonio Bastardo (L), Michael Blazek (R), Andrew Chafin and Randall Delgado will also be in the pen.

 OFs Yasmany Tomas (R), Jarrod Dyson (L), C Jeff Mathis (R), INF Nick Ahmed (R) and C Chris Hermann (L) are on the bench.

 For my prediction, I think the Diamondbacks will make the playoffs once again, and even be a dark horse World Series contender.