On Tuesday night the Mets formally announced a new three-year contract with Yoenis Cespedes, suppressing any hope that the Angels would take advantage of a free-agent market that was tailored to address their greatest need.
High heat: Verlander’s run fueled by new fastball approach
Justin Verlander’s velocity will never get back to what it once was, but that doesn’t mean his fastball can’t be lethal. Thanks to a change in approach, his high-spin heater proved to be just what he needed to get back to his dominating form in 2015.
Dodgers visit, support Jackie’s high school
Jackie Robinson is known for his trailblazing career with the Dodgers, but his roots as an American hero can be traced back to his time at John Muir High School, where he was a star on the playing field and in the classroom.
Roberts eager for first sit-down with Puig
In two months as manager of the Dodgers, Dave Roberts has made an effort to touch base with all of his new players, but he’s still looking forward to his first sit-down with Yasiel Puig.
Dickerson trying not to think about rumors
Rockies left fielder Corey Dickerson’s offseason consists of a packed schedule. Mornings are spent in the weight room with his trainer. The afternoons are fun. He rejoins his old college baseball team, Meridian (Miss.) Community College, doing full hitting and fielding drills in preparation for the Rockies’ season — as far as he knows.
5 biggest potential free-agent upgrades
With plenty of free-agent talent still available, here’s a breakdown of the top remaining free agents and where they would represent the biggest upgrades for the 2016 season. Essentially, using WAR projections, which team would benefit most by adding a certain free agent.
Astros ink Wandy, 2 others to Minors deals
The Astros on Tuesday announced the signing of left-handed pitchers Edwar Cabrera and Wandy Rodriguez and infielder Danny Worth to Minor League contracts with invitations to Spring Training.
Red Sox extend contract with Class A affiliate
The Red Sox and the Greenville Drive, the club’s Class A affiliate, have extended their player development contract through the 2020 season.
Navarro traded to O’s for cash considerations
The Angels officially said goodbye to fan favorite Efren Navarro on Tuesday, trading him to the Orioles for cash considerations.
Abe Vigoda had his own baseball card
And he looks darn good.
MLB reportedly to enlist USADA in PED claim
Major League Baseball hopes to enlist the help of the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) to investigate allegations in an Al Jazeera documentary that several players, including Ryan Zimmerman of the Nationals and Ryan Howard of the Phillies, received banned performance-enhancing substances from an Indiana man.
Beede, Arroyo among Giants’ camp invites
The Giants have extended non-roster invitations for Major League Spring Training to 21 players, including right-hander Tyler Beede and shortstop Christian Arroyo.
O’s add Navarro for depth; designate Hoes
The Orioles acquired outfielder Efren Navarro from the Angels on Tuesday in exchange for cash considerations. To make room on the 40-man roster, outfielder L.J. Hoes has been designated for assignment.
Indians, Tomlin agree on 2-year deal
Josh Tomlin was quietly one of the best pitchers in the American League over the final two months last season. Now, the Indians have taken a step to make sure the organization’s longest-tenured player will stick around a little longer.
2016 Prospect Watch: Top 10 third basemen
After making his Major League debut in 2015, Rangers slugger Joey Gallo retained his rookie eligibility and leads the 2016 Top 10 Third Basemen Prospects list, while Rafael Devers of the Red Sox jumps up from No. 7 to No. 2.
Castro provides flexibility for batting order
Starlin Castro has spent the majority of his career residing in the top half of the batting order,sometimes out of necessity. He recalls entire seasons where it felt like if he and Anthony Rizzo didn’t hit, his Cubs wouldn’t win. With the Yankees, that does not project to be an issue.
MLB’s No. 1 prospect? The case for Crawford
Leading up to Friday’s release of the 2016 Top 100 Prospects list, MLBPipeline.com will state the case for five players who could arguably be considered baseball’s No. 1 prospect. Todd Zolecki makes the case for Phillies shortstop J.P. Crawford.