Cubs 2019 season preview

           When the Chicago Cubs first made the playoffs in 2015, they were viewed as the "new kids on the block" and they were the first of what would become of the MLB's young super teams, followed by Houston, Boston and New York. But, entering their fourth season since, the Cubs have suddenly aged, especially in their rotation. That still won't prevent the Cubs from contention in 2019. But, the team lost in game 163, which lost them the division, and the wild card game, which eliminated them. The Cubs are still led by a potent offense and a veteran rotation.

           Offseason additions: UT Daniel Descalso, RHP Brad Brach, RHP Tony Barnette, LHP Xavier Cedeno, RHP Collin Rea, RHP George Kontos, 1B Jim Adduci, INF Cristhian Adames, OF Johnny Field

           Offseason subtractions: 2B Daniel Murphy, RHP Jesse Chavez, INF Tommy La Stella, LHP Justin Wilson, LHP Jorge De La Rosa, LHP Jaime Garcia.

            Rotation
After having his worst career season since 2012 in 2017, Jon Lester rebounded with 32 starts for the fifth straight season, and had a 3.32 ERA. The main concern with him is his strikeout rate, which dropped to 7.4, the worst since that terrible 2012. Kyle Hendricks led the team with 33 starts, and his 3.44 ERA wasn't far off of Lester's. Jose Quintana's ERA in a year and a half with the Cubs is 42 points higher than his ERA with the White Sox, and he wasn't worth Eloy Jimenez and more, but is still a serviceable starter for them. Injuries and overall poor performance ruined Yu Darvish's inaugural season as a Cub. Cole Hamels is back after the team picked up his $20 million option due to a stellar performance after a trade from Texas. Mike Montgomery could make starts as well.

            Bullpen
Closer Brandon Morrow will miss at least the first month of the season due to arthroscopic surgery, which ended his 2018 early after a 1.47 ERA in 30.2 innings. While Morrow is gone, the closer role could go to a committee. That committee could include free agent signee and ex Orioles closer Brad Brach, set-up man Pedro Strop, workhorse reliever Steve Cishek, who played in 80 games in 2018, and Carl Edwards Jr. Strop and Edwards Jr. had 2.26 and 2.60 ERAs, respectively. despite a terrible contract, Tyler Chatwood would need to make the bullpen, but I wouldn't be surprised if he's DFA'd sometime this season if he doesn't make the pen. Brandon Kintzler was terrible after a July trade, but is a bounce-back candidate. Starter/reliever Mike Montgomery is another option.Tony Barnette comes from Texas and is a middle relief pitcher. The final spot will go to Chatwood, or lefties Randy Rosario and Brian Duensing.

           Catching
Willson Contreras' 2016 cameo and his 2017 season made him look like the future's best catcher. But, he took a step back, hitting just 10 home runs, two less than he hit in 2016, in 261 more Plate Appearances. His average also dropped 27 points. He isn't the best defensive catcher, either. Victor Caratini is his backup.

            Infield
The infield has always been a strength for Chicago. They have stars all around the diamond. But, the best of them all, Kris Bryant, was hurt by injuries, and hit just 13 home runs with a .272 average when healthy, both career worsts. He will need to rebound if the Cubs want to go anywhere. First baseman Anthony Rizzo's home run total dropped to 25 after four seasons in the 31-32 range. His OPS also dropped down to .846. Despite Rizzo and Bryant falling, second baseman/shortstop Javier Baez was the NL MVP runner-up, with a .290 average, .881 OPS, 34 home runs, 101 runs and an NL leading 111 RBIs. Baez will play shortstop while Addison Russell is still serving a 40 game suspension. Utility men Ben Zobrist, Daniel Descalso and Ian Happ all can play second base, but I see Zobrist as the starter, with Descalso as the all-around back-up infielder and Happ as the fourth outfielder. David Bote also is a backup infielder, but might be sent down when Russell returns.

             Outfield
The Cubs' outfield isn't a perfect thing, but it is coming along. Jason Heyward had a .270/.335/.395 slash line in 2018, his best as a Cub, but not close to his 2015 that attracted the Cubs enough to sign him. Left fielder Kyle Schwarber is a pure power hitter, but struggles elsewhere. CF Albert Almora Jr. can hit for average, but rarely walks, which badly hurts his OBP, and is better suited for the end of a lineup rather than the front. Happ is the 4th outfielder, and Zobrist is the 5th.

               Bench
The Cubs likely will go with a four man bench, that consists of Caratini, the backup catcher, and three multi-position players, which manager Joe Maddon likes to use. Daniel Descalso's 13 home runs and .789 OPS in 2018 were career highs in Arizona, even better than his stint playing at Coors Field. You might have heard of David Bote from some clutch hitting he did last regular season, but his overall numbers aren't impressive. Ian Happ hasn't developed into the player he was projected as, after dropping off after a good 2017 rookie season. He is blocked in the Cubs organization, unless they get rid of Russell.

                  Lineup
RF Jason Heyward
3B Kris Bryant
1B Anthony Rizzo
SS Javier Baez
LF Kyle Schwarber
C Willson Contreras
2B Ben Zobrist
CF Albert Almora Jr.
Pitcher

                    Rotation
Jon Lester (L)
Kyle Hendricks (R)
Cole Hamels (L)
Yu Darvish (R)
Jose Quintana (L)

                     Bullpen
Pedro Strop (R)
Carl Edwards Jr. (R)
Steve Cishek (R)
Brad Brach (R)
Tony Barnette (R)
Mike Montgomery (L)
Brandon Kintzler (R)
Randy Rosario (L)

                       Bench
C Victor Caratini
INF Daniel Descalso
INF David Bote
2B/OF Ian Happ

                       Additional Information
Ballpark: Wrigley Field
Manager: Joe Maddon
GM: Jed Hoyer, Theo Epstein (President)
World Series Championships: 3
2018 record: 95-68

                       Steal of the Decade
This is the trade you think of when you think of the best MLB trades of the 2010s. The trade was on July 2, 2013. The Cubs sent RHP Scott Feldman and C Steve Clevenger to Baltimore for international bonus pool money, and two RHPs, Jake Arrieta and Pedro Strop. First of all, Feldman pitched in just 15 starts for Baltimore, with a 4.27 ERA, and is already out of the MLB. So is Clevenger, who wasn't very good for Baltimore, but at least they turned him into 47 home run hitter Mark Trumbo. On the other side, Strop is still with the Cubs, and will be their set-up man this season. In six years in the Windy City, Strop has a 2.63 ERA with 19 saves. But the main part of this deal is Arrieta, who was their ace for four seasons, posting a 2.73 ERA with the Cubs. That includes 2015, when he posted a 1.77 ERA in 229 innings, with 236 strikeouts, cruising to a Cy Young victory, before leaving for Philly.

                           Prediction
The Cubs still have a potent offense, led by their infield. On paper, they have one of the best rotations in baseball. But, they also have an old rotation, with four of their five starters recently having bad seasons. Their bullpen isn't anything special. These are all reasons why the Cubs will finish third in the NL Central, missing the postseason for the first time since 2014.

Boston Red Sox 2019 Season Preview

Ryan Brasier. Photo from the LA Times

                Championships aren't easy to win, and the Boston Red Sox have won four in the last 15 years. The fourth came in 2018, when the Sox led the league with 108 wins, then cruised to a victory over the Dodgers in five games. Despite big relief arms hitting free agency, the Sox didn't add to their team. But, they still possibly have the best chance of any team to win the World Series in 2019.

                Offseason additions: RHP Erasmo Ramirez, RHP Zach Putnam, OF Gorkys Hernandez

                Offseason subtractions: RHP Craig Kimbrel, RHP Joe Kelly, LHP Drew Pomeranz, 2B Ian Kinsler, DH Hanley Ramirez

                 Rotation
Along with the outfield, the rotation is the Sox' biggest strength. Injuries have always been Chris Sale's issue, but the ace had a 2.11 ERA in 158 innings in 2018, and will again lead the rotation. David Price finally stayed healthy, and was very good in the ALCS and World Series. Some years, Rick Porcello looks like an absolute ace, others he looks terrible. The 2016 Cy Young winner had an average 2018, but still won 17 games. After acquiring Nathan Eovaldi from the Rays, Eovaldi posted a 3.33 ERA in 11 starts, and got a $67.5 million extension. Eduardo Rodriguez, another injury-plagued starter, was good when healthy in 2018. Knuckleballer Steven Wright can make the rotation, but most likely will be a swingman.

                 Bullpen
Going from their strength to their weakness, Boston didn't re-sign closer Craig Kimbrel or set-up man Joe Kelly. 30 year old rookie Ryan Brasier, who posted a 1.60 ERA in 33.2 innings, is the favorite to close, with Matt Barnes as the set-up man. Hector Velasquez had a 3.18 ERA in 2018. Heath Hembree, Brian Johnson, Wright and Brandon Workman, plus Tyler Thornburg (if ever healthy) are middle relief options.

                 Catching
Another weakness for Boston, their catchers had a league worst .525 OPS in 2018. Sandy Leon is a good defender, and Christian Vazquez isn't bad. Their workload is very similar, and their platoon will keep up in 2018. Catcher and outfielder Blake Swihart will have to make the roster, or be moved.

                 Infield
The Boston infield is good, but it isn't great. That describes first baseman Mitch Moreland pretty well, a guy who'll hit around .250 with 15-20 home run power. Rafael Devers will need to improve defensively, after committing 24 errors in his sophomore season. But, he is still just entering his age 22 season, coming off a 21 home run season. At second, Dustin Pedroia barely played in 2018 due to cartilage restoration surgery, and will hope to stay on the field. If not, pencil in Eduardo Nunez. Xander Bogaerts is their best infielder at shortstop, coming off a .883 OPS season with 103 RBIs, the first 100 RBI Boston shortstop since Nomar Garciaparra.

                  Outfield
Boston has the best outfield in baseball, and it all starts with right fielder and AL MVP Mookie Betts. Betts hit .346 with 32 home runs and 30 stolen bases, plus a 1.078 OPS. Plus, he won a gold glove, along with center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr., though his power has regressed. Andrew Benintendi had a .290 batting average, with with a .830 OPS. The three Bs are defensive wizards at Fenway Park.

                   DH/Bench
The Red Sox' big addition last offseason, JD Martinez, hit .330 with 43 home runs and a 1.031 OPS. Had he played the field, he might have been Betts' MVP runner-up, instead of a 4th place finish. World Series MVP Steve Pearce platoons at first with Moreland, and he has a .501 career slugging percentage against lefties. Utility man Brock Holt can play all seven positions, and delivered the first ever post-season cycle in the ALDS. If Pedroia is healthy, Nunez is also on the bench.

                   Lineup
LF Andrew Benintendi
RF Mookie Betts
DH JD Martinez
SS Xander Bogaerts
1B Mitch Moreland
3B Rafael Devers
2B Dustin Pedroia
CF Jackie Bradley Jr.
C Sandy Leon

                   Rotation
Chris Sale (L)
David Price (L)
Rick Porcello (R)
Eduardo Rodriguez (L)
Nathan Eovaldi (R)

                   Bullpen
Ryan Brasier (R)
Matt Barnes (R)
Hector Velasquez (R)
Heath Hembree (R)
Brian Johnson (L)
Steven Wright (R)
Brandon Workman (R)

                    Bench
1B Steve Pearce
UT Brock Holt
UT Eduardo Nunez
C Christian Vazquez

                     Additional Information
Ballpark: Fenway Park
Manager: Alex Cora
GM: Dave Dombrowski
World Series Championships: 9
2018 record: 108-54

                      Steal of the Decade
The Red Sox haven't had an absolute steal in the 2010s, but the jury is still out on one of them. The Sox acquired LHP Chris Sale from the White Sox on December 7th, 2016, and gave up baseball's top prospect, 2B Yoan Moncada, plus Michael Kopech, Luis Alexander Basabe and Victor Diaz. Moncada hasn't done much yet for Chicago, and led the majors in strikeouts in 2018. Kopech will miss 2019 with Tommy John surgery, and Diaz and Basabe haven't made the majors yet. On the other hand, Sale has a 2.56 ERA in two seasons for Boston, and was the 2017 Cy Young runner-up, and was 4th in 2018. The Red Sox also don't win the 2018 World Series without Sale. They could still give up a lot of talent in Moncada and Kopech, but it still won't matter, they won the World Series.

                      Prediction
The Red Sox have a bad bullpen, which will bring them down a lot, but a potent offense and a great rotation will always keep them in games. But, their bullpen will lose them some, which could have them still make the playoffs, but drop to second place in the AL East.

Baltimore Orioles 2019 Season Preview

Richard Bleier. Photo from Baltimore Sun

           Everything that could have gone wrong for the Baltimore Orioles in 2018 went wrong, and the team ended up in last place in the majors, a whopping 61 games back of the first place Red Sox. Knowing he was on his way out at the season's end, GM Dan Duquette had a fire sale at the trade deadline, dealing the eventual $300 million man Manny Machado, plus Kevin Gausman, Zach Britton, Brad Brach, Darren O'Day and Jonathan Schoop. He was replaced by Mike Elias, who brought in Cubs bench coach Brandon Hyde to replace manager Buck Showalter. And worst of all, they still have a below average farm system. As Elias' tenure begins, days have been brighter in Baltimore.

          Offseason additions: SS Alcides Escobar, INF Rio Ruiz, RHP Nate Karns, INF Hanser Alberto

          Offseason subtractions: INF Tim Beckham, C Caleb Joseph, OF Adam Jones, OF Craig Gentry, 1B Pedro Alvarez, 3B Danny Valencia

           Rotation
No pitcher that made multiple starts for the O's in 2018 had an ERA better than 4.43, which belonged to Kevin Gausman, who thrived after a trade out of town. The next best is David Hess' 4.88, in 12 starts and five more relief appearances. Hess will be a 4th or 5th starter this year for Baltimore. Dylan Bundy had a rough 2018, leading the MLB in home runs allowed (41), and the AL in losses (16), in a career high 172 innings. He is still their "ace". Alex Cobb is back after a 2.56 ERA after the all-star break, with three years left on his contract. Andrew Cashner had a 5.29 ERA in 2018, but is still their third starter. Yefry Ramirez, Josh Rogers and Jimmy Yacabonis are fighting for the 5th spot.

             Bullpen
The biggest bright spot for the O's in 2018 was set-up man Richard Bleier, who for the third straight season had a sub 2.00 ERA, for a career 1.97 mark. Unfortunately, he couldn't stay healthy and lat surgery could have him miss the start of the year. Mychal Givens converted nine save attempts when Britton, Brach and O'Day were traded, and will start the season as closer. Paul Fry and Miguel Castro posted decent numbers, and Mike Wright Jr. and Tanner Scott return.

             Catching
Chance Sisco was one of the league's top catching prospects, and when given a major league chance, he was abysmal, with a .181 average, and two home runs in 63 games. Backup Caleb Joseph was non-tendered, and defensive specialist Austin Wynns enters camp as the catching favorite, after impressing with a .255 average and four homers in 42 games.

              Infield
First baseman Chris Davis, who had one of the league's worst contracts in baseball entering the season, turned in arguably the worst season in major league history, with a .168 average and 192 strikeouts in 470 ABs, stinking up first base. After being acquired for Schoop, Villar stole 21 bases and hit .258 with eight home runs, and enters the season as possibly the team's best player. Renato Nunez, who hit .275 with seven home runs in 60 games with Baltimore, was a bright spot down the stretch and the third base favorite. Rule 5 pick Richie Martin, Breyvic Valera and Steve Wilkerson are competing for the SS job.

              Outfield
Trey Mancini, a natural first baseman, is still stuck in left field because of Davis, and is one of the  team's only 20 home run threat. Cedric Mullins is a really good fielder and base-runner, and even pushed longtime center fielder Adam Jones to right field in September. Former first round pick DJ Stewart and Joey Rickard fight for the RF job, but Rickard is better as a fourth outfielder.

              DH/Bench
The O's are hoping for a bounce-back year for power hitter DH Mark Trumbo, who hit 47 home runs in 2016, so they can flip him at the deadline. On the bench are Sisco, who is likely the backup catcher, Valera or Martin, depending on the SS winner, utility man Steve Wilkerson, and Rickard. Corner infielder Rio Ruiz is also an option.

              Lineup
CF Cedric Mullins
2B Jonathan Villar
LF Trey Mancini
DH Mark Trumbo
3B Renato Nunez
1B Chris Davis
RF DJ Stewart
SS Breyvic Valera
C Austin Wynns

              Rotation
Dylan Bundy (R)
Alex Cobb (R)
Andrew Cashner (R)
David Hess (R)
Yefry Ramirez (R)

              Bullpen
Mychal Givens (R)
Richard Bleier (L)
Miguel Castro (R)
Paul Fry (L)
Tanner Scott (L)
Mike Wright Jr. (R)
Jimmy Yacabonis (R)/Pedro Araujo (R)

              Bench
C Chance Sisco
UT Steve Wilkerson
SS Richie Martin
OF Joey Rickard

              Additional information:
Ballpark: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Manager: Brandon Hyde
GM: Mike Elias
World Series Championships: 3
2018 record: 47-115

              Steal of the Decade
Mark Trumbo had hit at least 22 home runs four times in his five career seasons, including 22 in 2015, 13 of which came with the Seattle Mariners. But, the team deciding to trade Trumbo and reliever C.J. Riefenhauser to Baltimore for catcher Steve Clevenger prior to the 2016 season. Clevenger would play in 22 games with Seattle in 2016, hitting .221 with one home run, before a couple of racist tweets had him suspended, and out of major league baseball for good. On the other hand, Riefenhauser never pitched for Baltimore, but in Trumbo's first season, he hit an MLB leading 47 home runs. Though he has hit just 40 combined the last two seasons, he is still a good power hitter and way better than Clevenger.

               Prediction
Yes, things in Baltimore will slowly get better. But, the next couple of seasons of the rebuild will be the worst, and the team will struggle. Almost everyone will be surprise if the Orioles don't finish last in the AL East in 2019.

Atlanta Braves 2019 Season Preview

Ozzie Albies. From ESPN

             The Atlanta Braves hoped that their wave of young talent would bring success to the team the same year they opened a new ballpark. It didn't work that way, with the team winning just 72 games in 2017. Luckily for the team, they aspirations were just a year behind. In SunTrust Park's second season of existence, the Braves won the NL East in a commanding fashion, led by Rookie of the Year recipient Ronald Acuna Jr. The Braves didn't dislodge their core, and added to it with former all-stars. The fun has just begun in Atlanta.

               Offseason additions: 3B Josh Donaldson, C Brian McCann, C Raffy Lopez, UT Pedro Florimon, INF Andres Blanco, OF Ryan LaMarre

               Offseason subtractions: RHP Anibal Sanchez, C Kurt Suzuki, RHP Brad Brach, 1B Lucas Duda, RHP Brandon McCarthy, RHP Peter Moylan

                Rotation
Right-handers Mike Foltynewicz and Julio Teheran created quite the one-two punch for the Braves, with a .195 and .196 opponent's batting average, respectively. Those are the lowest two totals for a Braves pitcher in a single season, just edging out Greg Maddux's .197 in 1995. Sean Newcomb had a strong season, and is a good third starter. Kevin Gausman was very good in 10 starts after a trade from Baltimore. The fifth spot is up for grabs, with youngsters Touki Toussaint, Max Fried and Mike Soroka the favorites. The team could still add a starter like Dallas Keuchel as well.

                Bullpen
Aroyds Vizcaino returns as the closer, but he struggled to stay healthy in 2018, but was good in his 39 games. While he was out, set-up man AJ Minter recorded 15 saves. Shane Carle and Jesse Biddle both had strong seasons in middle relief, with ERAs hanging around the 3.00 mark. Darren O'Day never pitched for Atlanta, but was part of the Gausman trade and will be ready for 2019. Dan Winkler, comeback player of the year winner Jonny Venters and Sam Freeman are other options.

                Catching
The platoon of Kurt Suzuki and Tyler Flowers favored Suzuki in 2018, but he left for Washington. The Braves brought back hometown boy and former all-star Brian McCann to complete the other half of the platoon. He still has power. Raffy Lopez was brought in as the third catcher after spending 37 games in San Diego.

                 Infield
Freddie Freeman is by far their best player, and will be until Acuna passes him. In all 162 games last season, Freeman hit .309, with 23 home runs and 98 RBIs, and finished 4th in MVP voting, while picking up his first gold glove at first base. 2015 AL MVP Josh Donaldson played in just 52 games in 2018 due to injuries, but his career power and average had the Braves sold, and they brought him in on a one year deal worth $23 million, thinking he can still play third. 21 year old 2B Ozzie Albies hit 20 home runs before the all-star break, but hit just four more after, but is still a home run/stolen base threat. Former first overall pick Dansby Swanson is still young, and hit a career high 14 home runs in 2018.

                  Outfield
Ronald Acuna Jr. took the league by storm last year, hitting .292 with 26 home runs and 16 stolen bases in 111 games, winning the NL Rookie of the Year award. Ender Inciarte has won a gold glove in all three seasons in Atlanta, and stole a career high 28 bases, while once again hitting double-digit home runs. At age 34, Nick Markakis arguably had his best season since 2007, with a .297 average and a .806 OPS. The team brought him back on a one year deal.

                   Bench
Johan Camargo hit 19 home runs as the starting third baseman in 2018, but with the Donaldson signing, and the team bringing back Markakis, the team views Camargo as a super-utility player, as he can play the infield and outfield. Tyler Flowers fell off in 2018, but he is still the backup catcher and will play against southpaws. Charlie Culberson also can play super-utility. Two time 30 home run hitter Adam Duvall returns after posting ugly numbers after a July trade from Cincy.

                   Lineup
LF Ronald Acuna Jr.
2B Ozzie Albies
1B Freddie Freeman
3B Josh Donaldson
RF Nick Markakis
C Brian McCann
CF Ender Inciarte
SS Dansby Swanson
Pitcher
                   Rotation
Mike Foltynewicz (R)
Julio Teheran (R)
Sean Newcomb (L)
Kevin Gausman (R)
Touki Toussaint (R)

                    Bullpen
Arodys Vicaino (R)
AJ Minter (L)
Jesse Biddle (L)
Shane Carle (R)
Dan Winkler (R)
Darren O'Day (R)
Jonny Venters (L)
Luke Jackson (R)/Sam Freeman (L)

                   Bench
UT Johan Camargo
UT Charlie Culberson
C Tyler Flowers
LF Adam Duvall

                      Additional Information
Ballpark: SunTrust Park
Manager: Brian Snitker
GM: Alex Anthopoulos
World Series Championships: 3*
2018 record: 90-72

                      Steal of the Decade
Coming off a season in where he had a 3.02 ERA and made his first all-star team, the Braves were looking to trade Shelby Miller at his highest value. The dealt him and Gabe Speier to Arizona for SS Dansby Swanson, the recent 1st overall pick, Ender Inciarte and Aaron Blair. Swanson has settled into a role as their starting shortstop, and at 25 he can still get better. Inciarte's power has improved, and he's an elite defender and runner. Blair was a big prospect, but didn't turn out. Meanwhile, Miller pitched in just 139 innings for Arizona, and had a 6.35 ERA in 3 seasons before being non-tendered.

                       Prediction
A young team led by a potent offense and a not experienced rotation, I predict the Braves will finish second in the NL East and make the playoffs in the wild card.


*The Braves have won one championship in Atlanta, but won one in both Boston and Milwaukee
              

Arizona Diamondbacks 2019 Season Preview

Ketel Marte (From SBNation)

              Losing isn't easy, and though the Arizona Diamondbacks had a 2018 record over .500, the offseason brought them with plenty of losing. First, the team didn't re-sign top pitcher Patrick Corbin or center fielder AJ Pollock. But the worst blow for the team was a move that had to happen. Star first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, the only National League player on all of the last six all-star teams, was traded to St. Louis for a pick and three players. But, despite all that, the team is still looking at contention, and it isn't too far away.

              Offseason additions: RHP Greg Holland, RHP Luke Weaver, C Carson Kelly, INF Wilmer Flores, RHP Merrill Kelly, C Caleb Joseph, RHP Ricky Nolasco, LHP Marc Rzepczynski, OF Matt Szczur.

               Offseason subtractions: 1B Paul Goldschmidt, LHP Patrick Corbin, CF AJ Pollock, C Jeff Mathis, INF Daniel Descalso, RHP Clay Buchholz, RHP Brad Boxberger, RHP Brad Ziegler, LHP Jake Diekman, UT Chris Owings, OF Jon Jay.

               Rotation
Lost in all the talk about how bad his contract is, Zack Greinke quietly turned in another really good season, nearly matching his 2017 numbers. He'll likely get the opening day start, and lead the rotation. An oblique injury limited Robbie Ray to just 24 starts in 2018, but he became the first pitcher in MLB history to record 165 strikeouts in 125 innings or less (he did it in 123.2 innings). Zack Godley won 15 games, but had an inflated 4.74 ERA, thanks to a 1.45 WHIP. Joining the rotation to replace Corbin and late season standout Clay Buchholz is Luke Weaver, acquired from the Goldschmidt trade, and Merrill Kelly, who was signed to a two year deal out of Korea. Weaver had a good stint in 2017, but struggled when healthy in 2018.

                Bullpen
The bullpen lost one year closer Brad Boxberger and his Player's Weekend emojis, but the team brought in former all-star Greg Holland, who struggled with St. Louis last year but was virtually unhittable after a midseason trade to Washington. Holland seems to be the favorite for the closer role, but set-up man Archie Bradley and Yoshihisa Hirano are also competitors. The latter had a 2.44 ERA as a 34 year old rookie last year, and each had three saves. Lefty Andrew Chafin pitched in 77 games, and allowed zero home runs, with a 3.10 ERA. Another lefty, T.J. McFarland, had a career season which saw him post a 2.00 ERA in 72 innings. Matt Andriese, Nick Green, Matt Koch and Jimmie Sherfy are vying for bullpen spots.

                Catching
Always a weak point for Arizona, the team thought it found it's future catcher when they acquired Carson Kelly as part of the Goldschmidt trade. Kelly has struggled offensively in the majors stuck behind workhorse Yadier Molina, but has decent AAA numbers. The team often carried three catchers last year, and might do it again, as Alex Avila is still under contract after a horrible 2018 and John Ryan Murphy wasn't bad with nine home runs.

                 Infield
Third baseman Jake Lamb, who rebounded off a combined 59 home runs in 2016-17 with just six in 2018, will slide over to first to replace Goldschmidt. While Lamb was out, the team acquired Eduardo Escobar from the Twins, and he impressed down the stretch, and was rewarded with a three year, $21 million contract. Two shortstops are in the middle of the infield. Nick Ahmed, formerly a great defender with no bat whatsoever, won his first gold glove had had a breakout season with the bat, hitting 16 homers with 70 RBIs and 33 doubles. Ketel Marte hit .260 with 14 home runs, and had a 3.3 WAR.

                 Outfield
Losing Pollock will sting, but David Peralta, a 30 home run hitter, will help ease off the pain. Injuries really hurt slugger Steven Souza, who will need to rebound this year. An oblique injury might not have Jarrod Dyson ready for Opening Day, but the speedster will be the primary center fielder when healthy.

                 Bench
On the bench are the two backup catchers, infielder Wilmer Flores, formerly a Mets fan favorite, and fourth outfielder Socrates Brito. If the D-backs go again with 12 pitchers, then either utility infielder Ildemaro Vargas or first baseman Christian Walker will get the job as the extra man on the bench.

                 Lineup
2B Ketel Marte
3B Eduardo Escobar
LF David Peralta
RF Steven Souza
1B Jake Lamb
SS Nick Ahmed
CF Jarrod Dyson
C Carson Kelly
Pitcher

                 Rotation
Zack Greinke (R)
Robbie Ray (L)
Zack Godley (R)
Luke Weaver (R)
Merill Kelly (R)

                  Bullpen
Greg Holland (R)
Archie Bradley (R)
Yoshihisa Hirano (R)
Andrew Chafin (L)
TJ McFarland (L)
Matt Andriese (R)
Jimmie Sherfy (R)

                 Bench
C Alex Avila
C John Ryan Murphy
INF Wilmer Flores
OF Socrates Brito
1B Christian Walker

                Additional information:

Ballpark: Chase Field
Manager: Torey Lovullo
GM: Mike Hazen
World Series Championships: 1
2018 record: 82-80

                 Steal of the Decade
At the 2010 trade deadline, the D-backs sent starter Dan Haren to the Angels for four players: Joe Saunders, Rafael Rodriguez, Tyler Skaggs, and the Angels' 12th best prospect, Patrick Corbin. While Rodriguez pitched a whopping 2.2 innings for Arizona, Saunders had a 3.96 ERA in 424.2 innings in Arizona, and Skaggs made his way back to the Angels. But the best part of this trade is Corbin. He pitched six years in Arizona, with two all-star appearances, and a 3.91 ERA before leaving Arizona for Washington and $140 million.

                  Prediction:
While the Arizona Diamondbacks certainly aren't a terrible team, they do not have the roster to compete in the NL West after this offseason's subtractions, and I think they will finish 4th in the NL West.

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