Joe Maddon’s timing couldn’t be better. After a three-year talent roundup by Theo Epstein’s front office, the Cubs are far better positioned for a run near the top of the National League than any time in the last century, writes columnist Phil Rogers.

The Indians and manager Terry Francona have agreed on a two-year contract extension through 2018 that includes club options for ’19 and ’20.

The 2015 White Sox closer probably doesn’t currently reside on the team’s 40-man roster. Then again, he quite possibly is part of the White Sox organization. No. 3 prospect Francellis Montas started in the Minors in ’14 and has continued in that role in the AFL, but he could boost the White Sox bullpen next season.

Finalists for the Baseball Writers Association of America awards will be announced tonight at 6 p.m. ET on MLB Network. Winners will be revealed next week, beginning with Rookie of the Year on Nov. 10, Manager of the Year on Nov.11, Cy Young on Nov. 12 and Most Valuable Player on Nov. 13. The Gold Glove Awards, presented annually by Rawlings, will be handed out shortly thereafter tonight (7 p.m. ET on ESPN2) to the game’s top defensive players.

Terry Francona is in an elite class of managers, and he’s truly happy to be at the helm of the Tribe, embracing every challenge that comes with this particular position. Two seasons later — with several more in store — that’s still a big deal.

There are few things in baseball more exciting than an outfielder’s attempt to cut down a runner on the basepaths, and in 2014, some of the sport’s best five-tool players had their cannons on full display. But who recorded the ’14 season’s finest outfield assist? Your vote can help decide that in the balloting for MLB.com’s GIBBY (Greatness In Baseball Yearly) Award for Outfield Throw of the Year.

Dave Magadan, having agreed last week to return as the Rangers’ hitting coach, is busy mapping out a mission for his hitters in 2015 as they try to recover from the trials and tribulations they went through this season. Magadan does not want his hitters to forget about what happened in 2014. Instead he wants them to use it to cop an attitude for 2015.

Yankees first-base prospect Greg Bird, who is honing his craft with Scottsdale, was among those to shine on Monday in the Arizona Fall League.

Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw was the big winner as this season’s Players Choice Award winners were unveiled live on MLB Network Monday night, claiming Player of the Year, Marvin Miller Man of the Year and NL Outstanding Pitcher honors.

In early October, the Cubs announced the 2015 coaching staff, including new hitting coach John Mallee and first base/outfield coach Doug Dascenzo. However, that was before Rick Renteria was dismissed and Joe Maddon named the new manager.

Clayton Kershaw’s remarkable 2014 season has been rewarded by his peers, who presented the Dodgers ace with an unprecedented three Players Choice Awards on Monday night. Kershaw won awards for Major League Player of the Year, National League Outstanding Pitcher and Marvin Miller Man of the Year.

With two weeks remaining in the Arizona Fall League season, Salt River and Mesa hold the top two spots in the East Division. The two teams are down to their final two games against each other, the first of which will be held at Salt River Fields on Tuesday night. Fans can watch the game, which begins at 8:35 p.m. ET, on MLB.com and MLBFallBall.com.

Joe Maddon still has to call some of the Rays players to say goodbye, and he has a long list of new players on the Cubs whom he needs to connect with as well. But one of the first people Maddon planned to reach out to was the man he replaced as Cubs manager, Rick Renteria.

Launching their offseason with an entirely expected and obligatory move, the Giants extended a one-year, $15.3 million qualifying offer Monday to Pablo Sandoval, which they know the free-agent third baseman won’t accept.

The Yankees announced on Monday that they extended a qualifying offer to closer David Robertson. He will have seven days to decide if he will accept the deal, valued at $15.3 million for the 2015 season.

The Orioles have made a qualifying offer to outfielder Nelson Cruz, and they also have reinstated Manny Machado and Matt Wieters from the 60-day disabled list.

Twelve top Major League free agents received qualifying offers over the last few days, including some right up until Monday’s 5 p.m. ET deadline.