MLB Network revealed its top 10 relief pitchers on Thursday night, based on results from “The Shredder” — an algorithm based on player performance that accounts for both offense and defense that was put together by MLB Network’s research department “without emotion or bias.” Host Brian Kenny and guest host Dan Plesac also provided their top 10s.
Brothers live out late father’s fantasy at camp
Tod and Gary Schulz went to last month’s D-backs Fantasy Camp to have fun, but also to pay tribute to their father, Don, who was a camp regular before passing away in 2010 at the age of 75.
Blue Jays reportedly come to terms with Floyd
The Blue Jays and free-agent right-hander Gavin Floyd have reached agreement on a contract, according to a report by Sportsnet.ca.
‘Cool Papa’ was wizard in field, on basepaths
The tale has been told many times about James “Cool Papa” Bell’s speed. You know, the one about him being so fast he could turn off the light switch in his bedroom and be in bed before the room got dark.
Embarrassment of riches: MLB’s deepest positions
There’s no such thing as too many players for a Major League team, at least not effective ones. A surplus is a luxury and can turn out to be a major blessing when injuries hit, as they so often do. It can also lead to a trade that fills a hole elsewhere in the organization. Here are the deepest positions as Spring Training draws closer.
Betts can’t stop bowling perfect games
The dude abides.
Fatcast: Kiermaier vs. 35 oz. ribeye
Enough food to fuel a family reunion adorned the table in front of where Kevin Kiermaier sat, awaiting his charity challenge. The Rays center fielder’s task: Take down the feast prepared and served at Clearwater’s Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill.
Zaidi: LA not looking to trade Puig, Ethier
Dodgers general manager Farhan Zaidi indicated he’s not looking to trade outfielders Yasiel Puig or Andre Ethier.
Rays reveal vision for new ballpark site
The Rays offered their thoughts on what they want in a new baseball stadium when they made public the process document they sent to St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman on Thursday afternoon.
Cox endorses Braves coach Perez as future skipper
The text from Bobby Cox was just five words, short and sweet as usual.
Mariners expect big things from young Boog
When new Mariners skipper Scott Servais and general manager Jerry Dipoto preach to their players this season about the need to control the strike zone, work pitchers and ultimately do whatever to get on base more often, they’ll find a ready pupil in Boog Powell.
Granderson: Reflecting on black history
The observation of black history is a time to reflect on all those who have come before in the African-American community and their countless sacrifices and struggles, writes Mets outfielder Curtis Granderson.
Bullpen power, fielder versatility key to Rox plan
Bullpen power, with command, and versatility for position players are two keys to building a roster for the Rockies, general manager Jeff Bridich said during an appearance on the MLB.com Statcast™ Podcast that was posted on Thursday.
Jerry Seinfeld and Yoenis Cespedes are still on for that Cuban sandwich
Make it happen, guys.
Astros’ Urban Youth Academy works wonders
It’s not only about those six young people and their college scholarships. It’s what they represent. “Our program works,” said Daryl Wade, director of the Houston Astros’ Urban Youth Academy (UYA). That’s the larger lesson. On Wednesday, the Astros held a ceremony to honor the five boys and one girl who signed letters of intent to play college baseball and college softball.
Orioles trucks head south for Spring Training
The Orioles inched a little closer to Spring Training on Thursday.
Orioles get Despaigne from Padres for Minor Leaguer
Seeking to add pitching depth, the Orioles acquired right-hander Odrisamer Despaigne from the Padres in exchange for Minor League pitcher Jean Cosme on Thursday.