We are almost there.

Each passing day of winter weather, which I’ve grown increasingly not fond of, Major League Baseball (MLB) is on the horizon. Spring training games will end, and as teams head to their respective cities, all of them are ready to make a run at World Series title.

Last season, players and fans had to deal with intense labor negotiations. It looked bleak for awhile, but as owners and players were finally able to reach an agreement, a collective sigh of relief could be felt by fans.

Baseball fans won’t have to worry about labor negotiations in 2023, as spring training started on time, and the ever popular World Baseball Classic is currently taking place.

Baseball may look at little different this season with some new rules. Those include:

• Lets play everyone: For the first time in MLB history, teams will play every team this season. This means interleague play throughout the season, and each team will play two series against their “geographical” rival throughout the season, as well. Teams will now play division opponents 13-14 times, instead of the usually 18-19 in seasons past. This will be fun, and I believe its a sign expansion is coming, as well as division and potential league realignment.

• Pitch timer: MLB has tried for the last 10+ years to speed up the game. Not everyone loves a 4+ hour Yankees/Red Sox game (except me), but this new rule has been successful in the minor leagues. The pitch timer will be used in different situations in games this season: 30 seconds between batters; Between pitches, 15 seconds with the bases empty, and 20 seconds with runners on base. Minor league game times have been reduced by an average of 26 minutes with pitch timers, according to a recent mlb.com article, and the rule also limits the number of throws for a pickoff plays. Which transitions almost perfectly into the next rule change.

• Bigger bases: These won’t be the white and orange bases you saw in your little league days, but MLB is attempting to make base stealing a bigger part of the game (to the demise of sabermetricians around the world). As of 2022, the bases were 15 inches square, and they will increase to 18 inches starting in 2023. A bigger base gives base stealers “more room to operate” and to avoid injuries. The change also reduces the distance between first and second, and second and third by 4 1/2 inches. Somewhere, Billy Hamilton is smiling.

• Infield defensive shift “limits”: There is a long jargon of this new rule, but I’ll keep it short and sweet: Defensive shifts are no more. Each team must have a minimum of four players on the infield, with at least two on either side of second base. Plain and simple - no more infielders in short left or right field, or the entire infield on one side of the base. Outfielders can still shift, which one would think would be a part of a universal shift change, and I expect those shifts to be eliminated before we know it. The league wants more balls in play, because as of 2022, the batting average of balls in play was .291 - which was six points lower in 2012 and 10 points lower in 2006.

I don’t expect there to be a complete facelift for MLB this season, but the changes will be noticeable. Like any rule change, we will (hopefully) be used to it by the All-Star Game.

Now, lets move into season predictions for 2023.

AL EAST

1. New York Yankees (101-61)

   New York is still the team to beat in the AL East, but the two teams directly below them in this preview have gotten better. New York also improved. They signed 2022 American League (AL) MVP Aaron Judge to a new nine-year deal, following a season in which Judge led the league in runs (133), Runs Batted In (RBI - 131), On Base Percentage (OBP% - 425), Slugging Percentage (SLG% - .686), and On Base plus Slugging (OPS - 1.111). He also chased Roger Maris’ AL home run record and broke it with 62. Judge was also named as the 16th captain of the Yankees, a testament to his play. New York also re-signed Anthony Rizzo, who slugged 32 home runs and compiled an .817 OPS in 2022, and also brought back reliever Tommy Kahnle, who will look to fill the void of Chad Greene, who signed with Toronto. Carlos Rodon was their big free agent acquisition this offseason, and is the solid #2 starter New York has been looking for. He led the league in Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) at 2.25, and also led the league in K/9 (12). Ace Gerrit Cole enters his fourth season in New York, after three top 10 finishes in the AL Cy Young vote the last three seasons. In 2022, Cole led MLB in strikeouts (257), and led New York pitchers in innings pitched (200), and was fourth in WHIP (1.017). I expect Cole to have his best season in New York in 2023, as will Luis Severino. After only appearing in four games in 2021, Severino bounced back last season, posting a 3.18 ERA, and a strikeout per 9 (K/9) of 9.9. Look for New York to continue to “mash” on offense. Last season, they were second in all of MLB with 4.98 runs per game, led the league with 254 home runs, and were fourth in SLG% at .426. If New York can stay healthy like they did in 2022, the will be tough to beat in the AL.

   Player to watch: Oswaldo Cabrera

   Nobody knows who will be the starting Left Fielder for New York on Opening Day. Management has said its Aaron Hicks’ job to lose, but don’t be surprised if Cabrera is an everyday starter by the All-Star Game. In 44 games last season, Cabrera hit .247 and was used as an ultra utility man. A natural infielder, Cabrera’s stellar defense was evident in the games he played, as he had 53 putouts and compiled an impressive 1.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR).

2. Toronto Blue Jays (94-68)

   The Blue Jays are listed here because of one reason: Starting pitching. Toronto signed Chris Bassitt to a three-year deal, and added him to a stellar rotation that includes ace Alek Manoah, Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, and Hyun Jin Ryun. As a team they were third in MLB in Walks per 9 (BB/9 - 2.6). Toronto acquired catcher and outfielder Daulton Varsho from the Arizona Diamondbacks, and even though they had to give up top catching prospect Gabriel Moreno, Varsho will make an immediate impact. Varsho’s 27 home runs in 2022 will be a great addition to a lineup that already includes Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (.818 OPS, 35 doubles, 97 RBI’s in 2022), Bo Bichette (189 hits - AL Leader, 24 home runs, .802 OPS in 2022), and Alejandro Kirk (.415 SLG%, 19 doubles, 134 hits in 2022). Toronto will need to improve upon their 2022 record against the AL East (43-33) in order to stay close to New York in the standings. Look for Toronto to once again be a playoff team in 2023

   Player to watch: George Springer

   Riddle by injuries off and on over the last three seasons, Springer can be the “spark plug” to this team’s lineup. Springer is a stellar outfielder, who for his career has an average of 21 defensive runs saved per season. Springer is, and has been looking to recreate the “magic” he had while in Houston, where he had a slash line of .270/.361/.491, 174 home runs, 458 RBIS, and an .852 OPS during his seven seasons there. Toronto hopes their $150 million investment starts to pay off sooner than later.

3. Baltimore Orioles (91-71)

   In a few seasons, I guarantee you I will be writing about Baltimore owning this division. They’ve come a long way since losing 108 games in 2019 and 110 in 2021. Baltimore made a “charge” up the AL East standings in 2022 in the last 32 games of the season, winning 15 of them. They’re “here to stay” with their core of young players, led by faces of the franchise Cedric Mullins (157 hits, 32 doubles, 34 stolen bases in 2022), and 2019 first overall pick Adley Rutschman (101 hits, 13 home runs, .806 OPS in 113 games in 2022). Baltimore is going to surprise a lot of teams this year, especially if ace John Means, who is coming off Tommy John Surgery, and emerging slugger Anthony Santander (33 home runs and 2.1 WAR in 2022) can continue to improve. Pitching is still a “soft spot” for Baltimore, but if they can give their staff the run support they need, they will no longer be a team to overlook. Baltimore will be back in the playoffs in 2023 - Their first appearance since 2016.

   Player to watch: Gunnar Henderson

   Henderson and Rutschman are the two cornerstones of Baltimore’s future. Henderson proved in 34 games last season while he will be Baltimore’s starting third baseman this season, hitting .259 with 18 RBIs, 16 walks, and a .422 SLG%. With a full season under his belt, I expect him to not only improve, but become one of the best young players in the game. Henderson, who hit a home run in his first at-bat last season, should expect to hit a lot more this season and beyond.

4. Tampa Bay Rays (85-77)

   Look for Tampa Bay to regress slightly this season, even though a majority of their team will be back. Tampa Bay rising star Wander Franco was limited to 83 games last season due to injuries and his presence was greatly missed in their lineup. Longtime Ray Kevin Kiermaeir is now with division rival Toronto, and fan favorite Ji-Man Choi is now with Tampa’s favorite trade partner, the Pittsburgh Pirates. Pitching will continue to be the strong suit for Tampa Bay, something they’ve been dominant in the AL for the last several years. They led the league in least walks allowed (384), were 7th in runs allowed (614), and were 4th in WHIP (1.145). Usually a dominant team in the AL East, Tampa Bay must improve upon their record against their division this season if they want to make the playoffs. Last year, they were 40-36, and over the last two years, they were 51-25 in 2021, and 27-17 in the COVID shortened season of 2020. With less division games this year, look for Tampa Bay to hopefully take advantage.

   Player to watch: Tyler Glasnow

   Glasnow missed a majority of the 2022 season recovering from Tommy John surgery to his right elbow, but was able to pitch in two games towards the end of the season. When Glasnow is at his best, he’s one of the best pitchers in baseball. He's posted league leading numbers, such as 1.78 Earned Run Average (ERA) in 2019, he struck out 123 in 2021, and over the last three seasons, has had an average of 13.3 strikeouts per game. Tampa Bay lives and dies by analytics, and therefore Glasnow has had an innings limit since he’s been in the bay. Look for him to come back strong in 2023.

5. Boston Red Sox (74-88)

   Many, including me, were wondering what Boston was doing in the offseason. A team that used to spend money on free agents seems to be “pinching pennies” now, and that will show this season. Gone are J.D. Martinez, now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Xander Bogaerts, now with the San Diego Padres, two former staples in the Boston lineup. They did open their checkbook for superstar third baseman Rafael Devers, who will spend the next ten seasons in Beantown, and will look to him to continue to drive their offense. Last season, Devers led the team in home runs (27), SLG% (.579), OPS (.879) and was an All-Star for the second consecutive season. Alex Verdugo will be another bright spot in their lineup (.286 BA/.341 OBP/.431 SLG% in 2022), and look for additions Adalberto Mondesi and Adam Duvall to fill the voids of Martinez and Bogaerts. Pitching will keep Boston in the basement of the AL East once again in 2023. Their most reliable starter from last season, Nathan Eovaldi, is now with the Texas Rangers, and Chris Sale is battling back from several injuries. Don’t expect much from additions Corey Kluber or James Paxton either. Boston has a long way to go before they can contend again.

   Player to watch: Kenley Jansen

   One of the most dominant closers over the last ten years, Jansen lands in Boston on a two year deal. Last season, he led the National League in saves (41) while a member of the Atlanta Braves, and will look to bring his wicked cut fastball to the AL, which he threw on 64.4% of all of his pitches in 2022. This move makes sense for Boston, as the AL East has a lot of left-handed hitters spread throughout the division. He should also benefit with the “Monstah,” as nearly 60% of all home runs he gave up last season went to left field. If Boston can turn the game over Jansen with the lead for a majority of the season, they may surprise a lot of teams.

AL CENTRAL

1. Cleveland Guardians (95-67)

   A new name didn’t slow Cleveland down in 2022. They weren’t projected to even make the playoffs, but in their last 34 games they ran through teams in their way and went 24-10. Led by superstar Jose Ramirez, who signed a seven-year, $141 million contract last season, will look to continue his run of top-5 AL MVP finishers in 2023. Last season, Ramirez led the Guardians in home runs (29), doubles (44), RBI’s (126), and finished fourth in the AL MVP voting. Ramirez will continue to have a lot of help offensively this year, as second baseman Andres Giménez looks to build off of his 2022 stellar season (.297/.371/.466), as well as shortstop Amed Rosario (180 hits, 26 doubles, 9 triples - led all of MLB in 2022). One of the most exciting players in the Guardians’ lineup is left fielder Steven Kwan, who had a breakout rookie season in 2022. Kwan had just as many hits as Ramirez (168), and was an on-base machine (.373 - 13th best in all of MLB). He also stole 19 bases and finished third in the AL Rookie of the Year voting. If Cleveland can continue to be a top scoring team in the AL, their pitching staff and bullpen will win them a lot of games in 2023. Led by ace Shane Bieber, and rising star Triston McKenzie, who both struck out more than 190 batters in 2022, both will look to continue their dominance in the AL Central. Last season, they led the Guardians to the fifth best team ERA in all of baseball (3.46). Any team and their fanbase should feel confident when they have one of the best closers in the game, and that’s exactly what Cleveland has. Emmanuel Clase has almost become automatic for the Guardians, and last year he proved his worth. He led all MLB relievers in games (77) and finished a league leading 67 of them, while also leading MLB in saves (42). This is Cleveland’s division to lose.

   Player to watch: Josh Bell

   Bell signed a one-year deal with Cleveland in hopes his bat can add some extra power to already strong lineup. This will be Bell’s third team in the last three years, after he was dealt by Pittsburgh to Washington in the 2020 offseason, and was traded at last year’s deadline from Washington to San Diego. Cleveland hasn’t had a power-hitting first baseman since the days of Jim Thome, and the Guardians are looking for Bell to recreate some of the magic he had in Pittsburgh in 2019 when he slugged 37 home runs, drove in 116 RBI’s, and compiled an impressive .936 OPS. Cleveland had New York “on the ropes” in the playoffs last season, and I felt having one more power hitting in their lineup would have helped them move on. Time will tell if Bell is that guy.

2. Minnesota Twins (88-74)

   Minnesota is slotted here because of one player: Carlos Correa. The shortstop had one of the more “unique” offseason’s in recent history, as he agreed to a deal with the San Francisco Giants, and then he had a deal with the New York Mets, before finally re-signing with Minnesota. Correa was towards the top of Twins statistical leaders in 2022, finishing second on the team in hits (152), second in home runs (22), and first in OPS (.834). Limited to only 136 games in 2022, Correa’s leg injury in 2014, the one that nixed his deals with the Giants and Mets, is what people will be watching during the rest of his career. Minnesota traded All-Star second baseman Luis Arraez to Miami in the offseason, and his absence will be felt all season. Look for superstar Byron Buxton, to fill some of the void left by Arraez. Last season, Buxton hit 28 home runs, and finished second on the team in OPS (.833) but was limited to 92 games due to injury, something that has haunted him his entire career. Minnesota’s pitching staff is mediocre at best, and they got decent run support in 2022, and I look for that to continue this season. Pablo Lopez, who Minnesota acquired in the Arraez deal, steps in to be the team’s ace. Last season, Lopez pitched 180 innings, struck out 74 batters, and put together a 1.17 FIP. He will be followed by Sonny Gray (3.09 ERA and 99 hits allowed in 2022) and several other starters who look to take advantage of decent run support. Don’t expect Minnesota in the playoffs in 2023.

   Player to watch: Max Kepler

   Whenever Kepler “figures it all out,” he will become one of the best hitters in baseball. Kepler rarely strikes out, and if Buxton lands on the IL at any point this season, Kepler will be the next man up. In 2019, he slugged 36 home runs, but since then his next highest total in home runs is 19 in 2021. Kepler will be a player not only to watch for Minnesota, but will also be a potential name moved at the trade deadline as he heads into free agency in the offseason.

3. Chicago White Sox (84-70)

   Chicago is slotted here because of one player: Jose Abreu, who is now the starting first baseman for the Houston Astros. If he was still a part of this lineup, Chicago would be projected to finish second in this preview. The injury “bug” bit Chicago hard in 2022, as a majority of their big bats missed significant time. Now with Abreu gone, who played in 157 games, the next most was A.J. Pollock (138), and Josh Harrison (119) - Two decent players, but won’t be able to carry them to the playoffs. Shortstop Tim Anderson, who only played in 79 games in 2022, and will enter free agency after this season, becomes one of the main three focal points for Chicago’s offense. Baseball-Reference projects Anderson to have a “bounce-back” season (.294/.334/.427) and Chicago fans can only hope so do the other two big bats in their lineup. Luis Robert, who also was bitten by the injury bug in 2022 (98 games played), and Eloy Jiménez, who also was injury prone in 2022 (84 games played), need to stay healthy for Chicago to have a chance in the AL Central. Robert’s bat is explosive, and he showed glimpses of his greatness in 2021. In only 68 games played (due to guess what - injuries!) he collected 93 hits, drove in 43 RBI’s, and had an impressive slash line (.338/.378/.567) while posting a .946 OPS. Starting pitcher Dylan Cease leads Chicago’s rotation after an impressive 2022 campaign, (14-8, 2.20 ERA, 227 K’s) and somehow wasn’t an All-Star. Chicago’s staff is very reliable, with other starters Lucas Giolito (177 K’s, 9.9 K/9 in 2022), Lance Lynn (1.134 WHIP in 2022), and Michael Kopech, who was also bitten by the bug last season, and when healthy, has the best “stuff” in this rotation. All-Star closer Liam Hendriks is great to have at the end of games, but the rest of their relief pitchers are sub-par, at best. If Chicago’s “big three” on offense can score some runs with Hendriks to lean on, Chicago can stay alive all summer in the AL Central.

   Player to watch: Andrew Vaughn

   “Get Vaughn Up” - The slugger takes over at first base, and I expect him to be a big part of Chicago’s offense. Last season, he was moved around a lot and didn’t have a true position on the team, so with some consistency at first base on a regular basis, and the opportunity to make an impact on Opening Day, the sky’s the limit. Vaughn played in 134 games last season, compiling 138 hits, 28 doubles, and slugged .429. I expect at least 100-150 more at-bats, as well as placing newly acquired Andrew Benentendi in front of him in the lineup, he has the chance to be an All-Star in 2023.

4. Kansas City Royals (76-86)

   I expect the Royals to win more games in 2023, and look for them to challenge both Chicago and Minnesota for their respective positions in this preview. One reason to expect more wins in 2023: Their core roster is back. Kansas City is led by All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who finished 4th in the Rookie of the Year voting in 2022, while playing in 150 games, hit 20 home runs, drove in 80 RBI’s, and stole 30 bases. Witt debuted on Opening Day last season, and was later joined throughout the season by other up-and-coming future Royals stars. Slugging first baseman, and owner of a great Italian last name, Vinnie Pasquantino, came up late last season, and will be a part of Kansas City’s starting lineup this season. He made an immediate impact, garnering a 1.5 WAR, and put together an impressive slash line of .295/.383/.450 while only playing in 72 games. Throw in future Royals backstop M.J. Melendez, who played in 129 games last season, while getting 100 hits, slugging 18 home runs, as well as second baseman Michael Massey, and outfielder Kyle Isbel, Kansas City’s offense will be dangerous in the years to come. Kansas City led MLB in team triples in 2022 (38), finished seventh in stolen bases (104), but couldn't turn those stats into runs as they finished 24th out of 30 teams in both runs per game (3.95) and total runs (640). Ace Brady Singer leads a pitching staff filled with other arms that would have a hard time making the rosters on many MLB teams. Singer, along with closer Scott Barlow (24 saves in 2022) are the bright spots of their pitching staff. Kansas City fans shouldn’t expect Aroldis Chapman, who signed a one-year deal as a free agent, to do much, as he’s no longer the same pitcher he used to be.

   Player to watch: Salvador Perez

   Every young club needs a solid veteran presence in the clubhouse, and Perez is perfect for the up-and-coming Royals roster. Perez, who has been a Royal his entire career, enters his 13th season, and while he isn’t catching every day, his presence has been evident over the last two seasons. Since 2021, he’s slugged 71 home runs, drove in 197 RBI’s, and compiled an impressive .511 SLG%. Pretty good for someone who many thought his career was winding down. Not only will Perez be productive at the plate this year, his knowledge and guidance for the Royals young pitching staff is invaluable. Perez is the only player left on their roster left from the Royals 2015 World Series Championship team.

5. Detroit Tigers (63-99)

   Like their division rivals in Kansas City, Detroit has an up-and-coming good roster of young players. They’re just nowhere near or ready to contend - yet. Future Hall of Famer Miguel Cabrera, who will be on a retirement “tour” all season, as he’s indicated 2023 will be his last. Cabrera, who collected his 3,000th hit in 2022, will look be another strong veteran presence in the AL Central for this Detroit team. Shortstop Javier Báez, who had a down year in 2022 (.238/.278/.393), led Detroit’s offense - a team in which nobody drove in more than 70 runs (Baez - 67 in 2022). Detroit was near or at the bottom of most offensive categories in 2022. Look for that to continue in 2023 too. They were last in runs (586), 26th in hits (1,240), last in home runs (110, which was 154 less than the team leader [New York Yankees - 254]), and were 10th in team strikeouts (1,413). Detroit’s pitching isn’t much better, but I’ll say it’s easier to talk about compared to their offense. No Detroit starting pitcher won more than 10 games in 2022, and no other starter showed more promise last season than Tarik Skubal. He dropped his ERA to 3.52 last season from 4.34 in 2021 and led all Detroit starters last season in innings pitched (117.2). Skubal will be best supported by other starters Eduardo Rodriguez, who signed as a free agent with Detroit in 2022, and former team ace Matthew Boyd, who is back with Detroit on a one year deal, after pitching last season in Seattle. Former #1 overall pick Casey Mize is Detroit’s future ace, but has been riddle by injuries as of late. Mize started 30 games in 2021, striking out 119, and compiled a 1.13 FIP, before only appearing in two games in 2022 after being shut down. Detroit’s only competition will be with an AL West team to see who will have the worst record in the AL in 2023.

   Player to watch: Riley Greene

   One of two rising rookies for Detroit (Spencer Torkelson), Green showed the most promise in 2022. Appearing in 93 games in 2022, Green compiled 95 hits, scored 46 runs, and powered his way to a respectable .682 OPS. The strikeouts though - oof (120) will need to come down in 2023, as Detroit is altering Comerica Park’s outfield dimensions - Something Green will have to navigate in Centerfield and at the plate, and which most hope will be in his favor. Another great prospect, something the AL Central is littered with, Baseball Reference is projecting a rise in stats for Greene in 2023 (.258/.327/.380). He has the potential to be a great everyday player for this lineup in 2023, as well as many seasons to come.

   AL WEST

1. Houston Astros (98-64)

   The defending World Series Champions will once again be atop the AL West for the third year in a row, and although I believe they won’t win as many games in 2023 as they did in 2022, they’ll still be a force to be reckoned with. Houston was at, or near the top in several offensive categories in 2022, including home runs (214 - 4th), OBP% (.319 - 7th), SLG% (.424 - 5th), and runs per game (4.55 - 8th). There aren’t many “holes” in this lineup, and they’re led offensively by Yordan Alvarez, who hit a home run in the World Series that I don’t think has landed yet. Alvarez had 144 hits, 37 home runs, 97 RBI’s, slashed .306/.406/.613, and powered his way to a 1.019 OPS in 2022. He earned his first All-Star nod in 2022, and also finished third in the AL MVP race. Always reliable and confident José Altuve will once again join forces with Alvarez, and there’s no stopping Altuve, especially as of late. He had a bounce back year in 2022 after a somewhat disappointing 2021, slashing .300/.387/.533 (.920 OPS), and leading the team in hits (158), second in doubles (39), and third in home runs (28). Look for right fielder Kyle Tucker to continue to be “sneaky” good (140 hits, 30 HRs, 107 RBI’s), as well as third baseman Alex Bregman (.820 OPS, 23 home runs, 93 RBI’s in 2022), to help beat teams mercifully in 2023. And as they same in game shows “But wait - there’s more!” World Series MVP Jeremy Peña is here to stay after slashing .400/.423/.600 (1.023) in last year’s Fall Classic. Many thought Houston would be lost after Carlos Correa left, but they were able to “reload” with Peña. Houston’s pitching is, if not just as impressive as their offensive firepower. With the departure of Justin Verlander, Houston has an arsenal that will make it seem like they won’t miss him at all (which they will!). In 2022, Houston finished second in team ERA (2.90), second in team saves (53), allowed the second least amount of hits (1,121), and finished fourth in team strikeouts (1,524). Framber Valdez becomes the ace of the staff after winning 17 games and striking out 194 in 2022. Cristian Javier, who was great in the 2022 playoffs, will look to improve upon his 11-9 record in 2022, while also striking out 194, and putting together a .0948 WHIP. Luis Garcia is back (3.72 ERA, 157 strikeouts in 2022), as is Lance McCullers Jr., (1.4 WAR in 2022) who will look to bounce back from an injury plagued last season. This is the Astros division to lose, and will be for a long time. They will be challenged more this year as the AL West’s other teams have gotten better.

   Player to watch: Ryan Pressly

   Houston’s “under the radar” closer will continue to be one of the league’s best in 2023. Over the last two seasons, Pressly has saved 59 games, struck out 146, and only walked 26 batters. He’s been just as dominant in the postseason, especially in their World Series win last season. Against Seattle, New York, and Philadelphia, he appeared in 10 games, had a 0.00 ERA, while compiling six saves and striking out 11. Pressly isn’t flashy, but he’s one of the most reliable closers in the game. Look for him to continue to shut down teams in 2023 in the AL West and beyond as Houston goes for their third title in seven years.

2. Seattle Mariners (90-72)

   Like most recent successful teams, specifically the Atlanta Braves, Seattle saw their future in All-Star Julio Rodriguez, and locked him up for the next seven years. 2022’s AL Rookie of the Year, who also finished seventh in the AL MVP race, proved he is worth every penny in 2022. After compiling 145 hits, slugging 28 home runs, and putting together a great defensive season in centerfield (.984 FLD%), Rodriguez will look to build off of his 2022 campaign. And also like any good team - they got him some help. Seattle acquired Teoscar Hernández from Toronto in the offseason, to provide a little “pop” to their already potent lineup (133 hits, 35 doubles, 25 home runs, .491 SLG% in 2022). They also acquired Kolten Wong from Milwaukee for Jesse Winker. Wong brings plenty of postseason experience to Seattle, after several trips with the St. Louis and Milwaukee, and while his offense is terrific (24 doubles, 17 stolen bases, .430 SLG% in 2022), his defense is outstanding. He will look to add to Seattle’s already great defense, which finished fourth in the AL in putouts (4,341), led the AL in least amount errors (69), and also led the AL in FLD% (.988). Seattle didn’t just lock up talent offensively though. They signed starting pitcher Luis Castillo, who they acquired from Cincinnati at last year’s trade deadline, to a five-year, $108 million contract that begins this year. Castillo was great for Seattle down the stretch last year, and help catapult them into the playoffs. He appeared in 11 games for Seattle, compiling a 3.17 ERA, and striking out 77. Seattle needs Robbie Ray, and his one size too small baseball pants, to start to earn the five-year $115 million contact he signed prior to the 2022 season. Ray was disappointing in 2022, especially after his Cy Young season in 2021 with Toronto. He pitched to a 12-12 record, saw a decline in strikeouts (248 in 2021/212 in 2022), and saw his ERA rise to 3.71. Seattle will keep pressure on Houston all season, and will be back in the playoffs in 2023.

   Player to watch: Ty France

   Acquired in 2020 from San Diego, France quietly led Seattle in many offensive categories in 2022. He and third baseman Eugenio Suarez, who was also acquired from Cincinnati last offseason, were “silent assassins” for Seattle all year. France was third in runs (65), led the team in hits (151), doubles (27), and was second in batting average (.274). France isn’t a flashy player like Rodriguez, but he’s the best out of their other group of silent assassins including J.P. Crawford, and Cal Raleigh. Look for the All-Star to have a bigger impact in 2023.

3. Texas Rangers (86-76)

   Starting pitching has greatly improved for the Rangers, and probably out of most teams, the most improved rotation in all of baseball. That starts with arguably the best pitcher on the planet: Jacob deGrom. The new ace for the Rangers, who signed a five-year $185 million deal, will look to bounce back after three injury plagued seasons. When deGrom is in the zone, he’s a “cheat code.” In his back-to-back Cy Young seasons with the Mets in 2018 and 2019, he logged over 420 innings pitched, had a 2.05 ERA, struck out 524, compiled a WHIP of 0.941, and compiled an 11.2 K/9. Nathan Eovaldi, who signed a two-year deal, after pitching the last five seasons in Boston, brings another “live arm” to this Rangers rotation. Eovaldi, who finished fourth in the AL Cy Young race in 2021, is also joined by veteran Andrew Heaney, who signed a one-year deal with Texas. Heaney is looking to find his groove he once had with the Angels, and start to show progress of that last year by posting a 3.10 ERA and logging a 1.08 WHIP. Can’t forget about Texas’ ace from 2022, Martin Perez, who earned his first All-Star nod, while posting a 5.0 WAR, logging a 2.89 ERA in 196 innings pitched and striking out 169. These four will help keep pace with the Astros and Mariners all season. Big free agent signings in 2022 Corey Seager (.245/.317/.455, 33 HRs, 83 RBIS), and Marcus Semien (163 hits, 31 doubles, 25 stolen bases), led an offense that led all of MLB in stolen bases in 2022 (128), but failed to break the top 15 in a majority of other offensive categories. Outfielder Adolis Garcia, who drove in 101 RBIs and 27 home runs in 2022, will need to take a big step forward to help this offense succeed. Look for the Rangers to just be on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoffs in 2023.

   Player to watch: Nathaniel Lowe

   Lowe had his best season to date in 2022, after finally finding an every day home in Texas after being traded from Tampa Bay. Lowe, who earned a Silver Slugger last season, after compiling 179 hits, 26 doubles, 27 home runs, and an .851 OPS, all of which placed him in the top three statistically for the Rangers. Texas will look to Lowe to drive in more runs this season, as he only brought home 76 in 2022, while posting at .363 batting average on balls in play, which was fourth best in the AL. Lowe’s big bat is trending in the right direction.

4. Los Angeles Angels (78-84)

   No two players can carry a team to the promise land, and there is no greater example of that outside of the “Big A” in Anaheim. Mike Trout, who led the Angels in home runs (40), batting average (.283), OBP% (.369), SLG% (.630), and OPS (.999), will continue to desire more offensive help. Trout, who is on pace to be a first-ballot hall of famer, has only played three playoff games in his career. The three-time MVP and 10-time All-Star seems to have been searching for those other “pieces” over the last few seasons, and since then, one has “broken out” and become one of the many faces of MLB. Shohei Ohtani, who after his 2021 MVP season, where he hit 46 home runs and drove in 100 RBI’s, followed that up last season with a dominant performance from the mound. In 28 games started, he posted a 2.33 ERA in 166 innings while striking out 219 and led the AL in K/9 (11.9). He finished fourth in the Cy Young voting and second in the MVP race. Amazing. Outside of Trout and Ohtani, it’s hard to find consistent production for Los Angeles. Taylor Ward posted a 3.7 WAR while slugging 23 home runs in 2022, and second baseman Luis Rengifo collected 129 hits and posted a .724 OPS, but neither were as consistent as they should have been. “Mr. Glass” Anthony Rendon, who signed a seven-year, $245 million deal with Los Angeles in 2020, has played in a total of 157 games over the past three seasons due to injury. He was supposed to step in and be as productive as he was in Washington, where he led the NL in doubles in 2018 and 2019 (44 each season), and drove in a league best 126 RBI’s in 2019. Ohtani has been named the Opening Day starter for Los Angeles, but outside of him, the rest of their pitching staff isn’t great. Tyler Anderson, who comes over from the cross-town rival Dodgers, signed a three-year $39 million deal and becomes the team’s #2 starter. Anderson, who won 15 games in his All-Star season of 2022, will be slotted ahead of starters Reid Detmers, who pitched a no-hitter in 2022 (and that was about it), and Patrick Sandoval (3.5 WAR, 2.91 ERA in 2022). Los Angeles has a long way to go before they’re relevant in this division.

   Player to watch: Jared Walsh

   I mistakingly took Walsh in my fantasy baseball draft last season, something that came back to bite me. After a promising 2021, a season in which he was an All-Star, compiled 147 hits, slugged 29 home runs, and earned a .850 OPS, the sky was the limit. Walsh was so bad in 2022 that he was benched for almost the last two weeks of the season after hitting .129 In August. If Walsh can find his stroke again, especially with the semi-short porch in right field at Angel Stadium, it would be a bright spot on this lineup. He, along with other players like Jo Adell, are players Los Angeles’ front office is hoping can be the players they projected them to be. As Bob Wiley said in the movie What about Bob?, “Baby Steps.”

5. Oakland Athletics (59-103)

   Expectations won’t be high again in Oakland, as they will once again have the lowest payroll in baseball ($40.9 million - which is less than what Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, the two highest paid players in the game, will make this year). Oakland went through a major “fire sale” last season, shipping off their best players for prospects, and they did it again this year, sending catcher Sean Murphy, who is on a trajectory to becoming an All-Star, to Atlanta for a bunch of prospects you’ve never heard of (If I haven’t, neither have you). Also gone is Cole Irvin, who was traded to Baltimore, and who led Oakland in a majority of their pitching stats in 2022. Oakland, who is known for shipping talent away for prospects over the last 20 years, looks to be stockpiling their farm system with players they think can make an impact. So who’s left in Oakland? First baseman Seth Brown was a bright spot offensively last season, posting a 1.7 WAR, 25 home runs, and driving in 73 RBIs, as well as utility player Tony Kemp, who collected 117 hits, 24 doubles, and who played four positions for Oakland in 2022. The starting pitching staff will miss Irvin, but will turn to Paul Blackburn to lead their staff this season. Blackburn, who was an All-Star in 2022, started 21 games for Oakland, led all Oakland starting pitchers with 30 walks allowed in 2022. The Moneyball methods in Oakland are still present, but with every team now doing what they championed in the early 2000’s, it’ll be a long time before Oakland is back in the playoffs, especially not this season.

   Player to watch: The Las Vegas Athletics

   The city of Oakland and the Athletics have continued to do a “dance” when it comes to a new ballpark in the Bay Area, but neither side can come to an agreement. With the lease on the Oakland Coliseum fast approaching its deadline, possible relocation for the Athletics is more serious than ever. An investment group is in the process of working with the city of Las Vegas about a potential new stadium, which means a potential deal could be struck for the team to stay put, as well. This saga has been going on for a long time, and with the talks of potential expansion teams in the near future, it would make a move somewhat easier for the Athletics. They wouldn’t be going far, and I’d expect them to stay in the AL West. I’m sure there would be a lot of happy Oakland fans that live in Las Vegas if the Athletics were to come to town. The city already has their former football team, as well.

NL EAST

1. New York Mets (108-54)

   Any time a team adds a 40-year old to their roster, it may be met (no pun intended) with some “eyerolls.” But that’s not the case for the Mets, who signed Justin Verlander to a two-year, $86 million deal in the offseason. Verlander, who missed all of 2021, bounced back with the Houston last season helping them win their second World Series in the last six seasons, and his third Cy Young Award. He was his normal dominant self last season, leading the AL in wins (18), and led all of MLB in ERA (1.75), and WHIP(0.829), while casually striking out 185 batters in 175 innings pitched. He joins his former teammate Max Scherzer atop New York’s rotation, giving them one of the best “1-2 punches” in MLB. Scherzer, who heads into free agency after this season, had a somewhat “down” year compared to his normal standards. He compiled a 5.2 WAR, while posting a 2.29 ERA, struck out 173 batters, and posting 10.7 K/9. Pretty good for a 37 year old. New York has one of the best closers in the game in Edwin Diaz, which makes things reassuring for this entire lineup. Diaz appeared in 61 games in 2022, saving 32 games, posting a 1.31 ERA, while earning his second All-Star nod. Once you hear his “trumpets,” you know you’re in trouble. New York’s offense is just as loaded as their pitching, led by All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor. Truly bouncing back in 2022, Lindor raised most of his offensive stat categories from the prior season. He played in 161 games (career high), while collecting 170 hits, tallying 25 doubles, smashing 26 home runs and 107 RBI’s, while putting together a slash line of .270/.339/.449. All-Star first basemen Pete Alonso, who I expect to get the next big contract from New York, slugged his way to another All-Star nod and top-10 MVP finish. Alonso crushed 40 home runs, led MLB in RBI’s (131), while also posting his best average so far in his young career (.271). New York locked up outfielder Brandon Nimmo in the offseason (8 years, $162 million), as he looks to be past his injury plagued seasons, and looks to patrol centerfield for the Amazin’ Mets this season. There will be a lot of happy fans in New York this season when it comes to their baseball team(s).

   Player to watch: Jeff McNeil

   McNeil is another “silent assassin” in MLB, someone I enjoy watching play. If you look up the word “consistent” in relation to the New York Mets, McNeil will be the picture that goes along with it. He led MLB last season in batting average (.326), while leading New York in hits (174), doubles (39), and OBP% (.382). With numbers like that, he earned a Silver Slugger and the NL Batting Title in 2022, and I expect him to be a candidate for both again this season. His stellar play last season, one that saw him play six positions for New York, earned him a 4-year, $50 million deal in the offseason.

2. Atlanta Braves (96-66)

   The Braves trade for Oakland catcher Sean Murphy might be the best move any team made all offseason. In my opinion, that trade makes Atlanta one of the best, if not the best lineup in MLB. Murphy was the “missing link” Atlanta had been looking for, as they get a solid catcher, the best they’ve had since Brian McCann. Atlanta locked up Murphy right away, signing him to a 6-year, $73 million contract. Murphy brings a big bat to an already loaded Atlanta lineup, but more importantly will give their great pitching staff some relief with his catching abilities. Last season, Murphy led all catchers in games started (116), least errors committed (8), and was 5th in the AL in caught stealing % (31.1). Murphy joins an infield with third baseman Austin Riley (6.5 WAR, 38 HRs, 325 total bases - led NL in 2022), second baseman Ozzie Albies (30 home runs, 106 RBIs in 2021 - Was hurt for most of 2022), and first baseman Matt Olson (148 hits, 44 doubles, 103 RBI’s in 2022). Atlanta will miss shortstop Dansby Swanson, who signed with the Chicago Cubs in the offseason, but the rest of their offense should be able to fill his void. Atlanta has drafted well over the last 10+ seasons, and they have a superstar in the making patrolling their outfield. Centerfielder Michael Harris, who won the 2022 NL Rookie of the Year, is another player Atlanta locked up for the next eight seasons ($72 million. Harris posted a 5.3 WAR in 2022 while collecting 123 hits, 27 doubles, and posting an .853 OPS). Led by starting pitcher Max Fried, Atlanta’s pitching staff is great. Fried, who struck out 170 batters and finished second in the NL Cy Young vote in 2022, will once again look to carry the staff that allowed the fourth fewest hits in 2022 (1,224), the fifth least amount of runs allowed (609), and the second most strikeouts (1,554). Spencer Strider, who finished second in the NL Rookie of the Year last season to his teammate, will be even better in 2023. Last season, he started 20 games, going 11-5 in 131 innings pitched. For Atlanta, he allowed the least amount of hits for starters (86), the second most strikeouts (202), and led the team in FIP (1.83). Kenley Jansen is gone, so look for A.J. Minter to take over as the team’s closer. Minter led Atlanta in 2022 in ERA (2.06), and will look to continue his dominance in a tough NL East. The Braves make the playoffs once again this year, their sixth in a row.

   Player to watch: Ronald Acuña Jr.

   After missing out on Atlanta’s 2021 run to a World Series title, Acuña started making strides and looking like his normal self in 2022. Although the numbers were below his normal average, I think he has a major comeback this season, and will earn some league honors, as well. When Acuña is healthy, he’s one of the best players in the game. The former NL Rookie of the Year has put up impressive numbers in his short five-year career. In 2019, he lead the NL in runs (127), stolen bases (27) while hitting 41 home runs and driving in 101 RBI’s. I expect him to have a better year this season, as he’s the one player that will solely help Atlanta challenge New York all season.

3. Philadelphia Phillies (91-71)

   A big bat will be absent from Philadelphia’s lineup for a decent part of the season, as All-Star superstar Bryce Harper recovers from surgery to his right injured ulna collateral ligament in his elbow. The extent of Harper’s injury is still unknown, and whether he needed full Tommy John surgery or not, but look for Harper to continue his role as DH when he returns. Harper enters his fifth season in the City of Brotherly Love, and led Philadelphia to a World Series appearance last season. Philadelphia added one of the biggest free agents this offseason. Shortstop Trea Turner signed (11-years, $300 million), and will help fill the void of Harper’s absence. Last season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Turner continued to showcase why he’s one of the best players in baseball. He led the NL in plate appearances (708), at-bats (652), while collecting 194 hits, slugging 21 home runs, and driving in 100 RBI’s. Turner also stole 27 bases, and earned a Silver Slugger award. Also picking up the “slack” while Harper is out will be Kyle Schwarber, who in his first season in Philadelphia last year, led the NL in home runs (46), while also earning a Silver Slugger. Schwarber will need to cut down on the strikeouts, as he led all of MLB last season (200). Catcher J.T. Realmulto will also provide great support, as he continues to show why he’s the best catcher in MLB. Last season, he posted a 6.5 WAR, while earning his second Gold Glove, leading the NL in putouts (1,151) and double plays turned as a catcher (11). Realmulto will manage a decent pitching staff for Philadelphia, who allowed the fifth least home runs (150), and allowed the third least HR/9 (0.9). Aaron Nola will once again lead the staff, after pitching 205 innings last season, and leading the team in strikeouts (235). Look for Zack Wheeler to continue his dominance (2.82 ERA, 1.039 WHIP in 2022), as well reliever turned started Ranger Suarez (155 innings pitched, 129 strikeouts in 2022) to be Philadelphia’s solid #3 starter. Philadelphia’s pitching lands them in third in the NL East, but I expect the them to squeak into the playoffs in 2023.

   Player to watch: Rhys Hoskins

   Philadelphia fans are still waiting for Hoskins to have his breakout “party.” If there’s any time to do so, it’s now, especially with Harper being out. Hoskins has shown flashes of his greatness, finishing 4th in the NL Rookie of the Year vote in 2017, smashing 34 home runs and 96 RBI’s in 2018, and hitting 30 home runs and a .462 SLG% last season. Hoskins will look to bounce back after a rough World Series against Houston, a series in which he collected three hits, one RBI, and struck out 10 times. The time is now for Hoskins, especially since he will become a free agent after this season.

4. Miami Marlins (74-88)

   South Florida hasn’t seen stellar pitching like they did last season from their ace since the days of Liván Hernandez and Dontrelle Willis. Reigning NL Cy Young award winner Sandy Alcantara, who won the award unanimously, will lead Miami’s pitching staff again, after posting the best season of his career in 2022. Alcantara posted a 8.0 WAR, while starting 32 games, tossing six complete games, and leading all of MLB in innings pitched (228.2). He will look to build upon his 2.28 ERA and 207 strikeouts, while now having to carry the staff even more now with Pablo Lopez now in Minnesota. Jesús Luzardo will need to build on past success he had in Oakland, and even after he was sent down to the minors last season, he still managed to strike out 120 batters. This is a “make or break” season for Luzardo, as he and Alcantara will carry the staff. Offensively, Miami has holes in their lineup, but decent enough players to keep them relevant through July. Led by All-Star Jazz Chisholm, who will move to centerfield this year, Miami fans will hope the 2023 MLB The Show Cover Athlete can bounce back from an injury-plagued 2022. Chisholm was electric in his 2021 season, collecting 115 hits, smashing 20 home runs, and stealing 23 bases. He moves to centerfield after Miami acquired Luis Arraez from Minnesota in the offseason. Arraez won the AL Batting Title in 2022, after posting a .316 batting average, while also collecting 173 hits, 31 doubles, a .375 OPB%, and a .420 SLG%. Arraez is a hitting and on-base machine, something Miami desperately needed as they were towards the bottom in both hits (25th - 1,241) and OBP% (26th - .294). 2021 World Series MVP Jorge Soler, who signed with Miami in 2022, will look to bounce back and insert his big bat back into this lineup because they desperately need it. Soler, who smashed three home runs and posted an impressive 1.191 OPS in the 2021 World Series, is a free agent after this season. If Miami can make some noise in the NL East, I’d expect Soler to come back to Miami next season.

   Player to watch: Braxton Garrett

   Garrett was a blessing in disguise last season for Miami, as he wasn’t even considered to make the sizable impact he did. After emerging star Trevor Rogers, who finished second in the NL Rookie of the Year voting in 2021, took a major step backwards last season, Garrett stepped in. Appearing 17 games, he only walked 24 batters while striking out 90. He was second on the team in BB/9 (2.5), and provides another left-handed starting pitcher in the right-handed heavy hitting NL East. I expect Garrett to take another step forward. and be an even more reliable starter in 2023.

5. Washington Nationals (61-101)

   Washington is in full rebuild “mode” as they look to start to build a solid foundation with the plethora of prospects they received from their trades last season. ESPN ranks Washington as having the 13th best farm system entering this season, with three of their top four prospects coming over in the Juan Soto and Josh Bell deal from San Diego last season. Granted - They’re a young team with a lot of inexperience, but within their club there are some players I’m looking forward to watching their progression this season. One player in particular is C.J. Abrams, who was the main piece in the San Diego deal last summer. Abrams becomes Washington’s starting shortstop, after being drafted sixth overall in the 2019 draft. Abrams didn’t see a lot of action last season, only collecting 41 hits in 159 at-bats, while smacking 7 doubles and 10 RBI’s. Expect those numbers to rise with more games and at-bats this season. Look for Victor Robles to contribute offensively as he’s one of the few starters back in 2023. Robles put together at 1.8 WAR last season, while stealing 15 bases and driving in 42 RBI’s. Washington’s pitching isn’t much better, which is hard to believe a team can fall so fast after winning it all four years ago. Ace Stephen Strasburg hasn’t been able to stay healthy, as he’s pitched in a total of 8 games since 2020, posting a 6.89 ERA, allowing 32 hits, and striking out 28. He re-injured himself during this spring training, and there’s no timetable for his return. Things look bleak in Washington this season, and for years to come. With the “haul” they got from San Diego, though, if they’re able to draft well and potentially sign a big name free agent or seven, they’ll be relevant sooner than later.

   Player to watch: MacKenzie Gore

   Gore was the other big piece in the trade with San Diego last season, and he showed flashes of greatness during his debut season. Through his first five starts, he logged 26 innings while posting a 2.42 ERA and striking out 28. Gore was great - But that was with run support from a loaded San Diego offense, something he won’t have in Washington. Gore will be the solid left-handed starting pitcher Washington as Patrick Corbin, who signed a $140 million deal in 2019, doesn’t look to be worth the investment. Gore will get to “cut his teeth” against a stranglehold of batters in the NL East this season, something that should be beneficial for the long run, but tedious in the short term. He and Abrams are the prize pieces for Washington now, and who knows, they could turn into the next Bryce Harper/Stephen Strasburg combo that dominated D.C. more than a decade ago.

   NL CENTRAL

1. Milwaukee Brewers (93-69)

   There’s nothing hitters like facing less than a pitcher that has something to prove. Good luck to all NL Central hitters this season when they face Corbin Burnes, who lost his arbitration hearing with Milwaukee this offseason. Burnes, who said he was “hurt” in a Yahoo Sports article, will lead a pitching staff in Milwaukee that is the best in the division. Burnes led MLB last season in games started (33), leading the NL in strikeouts (243) while winning 12 games and posting a 2.94 ERA. He was second in the NL in H/9 (6.4), while posting a 4.0 WAR in 2022. He teams with Brandon Woodruff to provide the best 1-2 starters in the division, and the reason why Milwaukee is in the top spot. Woodruff won 13 games in 2022, while striking out 190, and posting an impressive 1.07 WHIP. The two, along with the rest of their staff, allowed the fifth least H/9 (7.7) in 2022, while also striking out the fourth most per nine innings (9.5). Eric Lauer was another reliable starter for Milwaukee last season, appearing in 29 games and striking out 157, and his fellow left-handed starter Aaron Ashby showed flashes of greatness in 2022, striking out 126 batters. Both round out Milwaukee’s pitching staff that will lead them to a division title in 2023. Christian Yelich leads Milwaukee offensively, after a down season in 2022. Yelich is five-years removed from his MVP season, one in which he slashed .326/.402/.598, and followed that season up with an even better one (.329/.429/.671) but finished second in the MVP race in 2019. With Kolten Wong now in Seattle, Jesse Winker will look to provide offensive support for Milwaukee, and help Yelich do what he’s so good at. Winker will look to bounce back after posting career lows last season (.219/.344/.344) while hitting 14 home runs and driving in 53 RBI’s. William Contreras becomes Milwaukee’s everyday catcher, as he came to town a part of the Sean Murphy trade. Contreras, who is only 25, enters the prime of his career on the rise. He hit 20 home runs and posted an .860 OPS in only 97 games last season. He will also get to work with another great pitching staff in Milwaukee, and look to help them get back to the World Series for the first time in 41 years.

   Player to watch: Devin Williams

   Milwaukee has one of the most underrated closers in all of MLB. Williams, who is entering his fifth season in Milwaukee, has quietly become a dominant pitcher over the last two seasons, posting a 2.20 ERA in 123 appearance, and saving 18 games with Josh Hader still in Milwaukee. After Hader was dealt to San Diego last season, in 21 appearances Williams allowed 10 hits, posting a 2.57 ERA, striking out 30, and batters had a .216 average against him on batted balls in play. Impressive. I expect Williams to be even more dominant this season than he’s ever been.

2. St. Louis Cardinals (87-75)

   With less games against the Pirates, Cubs, and Reds this season, I think St. Louis takes a “step back” in 2023. Paul Goldschmidt, last year’s NL MVP, leads St. Louis offensively (and defensively) after quietly running away with the award last season. Goldschmidt posted a 7.8 WAR, while only leading the NL in three statistical categories - SLG% (.578), OPS (.981), and OPS+ (180). St. Louis would not have won their division last season without him, while he also smashed 35 home runs, and drove in 115 RBI’s. He also led the NL in Runs Created (138), was fourth in extra base hits (76), and was third in times on base (262). Truly showing his value in many facets offensively. Goldschmidt’s defense is very underrated, and he continues to be one of the league’s best on yearly basis. Through 12 seasons, he’s won seven gold gloves, while posting a career .997 fielding percentage. Although he didn’t win the Gold Glove last season (Christian Walker), he still was as automatic as ever, while only committing one error last season. On the other side of the diamond at the “hot corner,” St. Louis has another future Hall of Famer that has made great defense his speciality. Nolan Arenado, who completed his second season in St. Louis last season, won his tenth consecutive Gold Glove at third base, and continued to own the title of best third baseman in the NL. Arenado finished second in Fielding % as a third baseman (.968), and although that percentage was his second worst over the last five years, he was still miles ahead statistically of the rest of the NL third baseman. Arenado is pretty good at the plate too, as he earned the Silver Slugger last season for NL third baseman, the fifth of his career, while posting an .891 OPS and smashing 30 home runs. Veteran Adam Wainwright will lead St. Louis’ pitching staff, his 18th season, and will look to support a young pitching staff. Wainwright, who struck out 143 batters in 191 innings last season, will guide and mentor Jack Flaherty, who was plagued by injuries last season. Flaherty, who finished fourth in the 2019 NL Cy Young race, will be joined by Miles Mikolas (2.4 WAR, 12 wins, 153 strikeouts, in 2022), and Jordan Montgomery, (61 strikeouts, 1.084 in 11 appearances after being traded from New York). An injury or two to Milwaukee this season, and this division is St. Louis’ for the taking.

   Player to watch: Willson Contreras

   It’s going to be weird seeing Contreras, who spent the first seven years of his career with the arch-rival Chicago Cubs, suit up as St. Louis’ everyday catcher this season. Contreras has big shoes to fill after future Hall of Famer Yadier Molina retired in the offseason after 18 seasons in St. Louis. Contreras, who signed a five-year $87 million deal, will look to bring his big bat to St. Louis, something Molina wasn’t able to provide over the last several seasons. Last season, Contreras posted a 3.9 WAR while smashing 22 home runs, and posting an .815 OPS, all within the top-10 for catchers. Contreras also plays a lot for a catcher, averaging 120 games over the last two seasons, and brings his stellar defense along too, posting the third most assists in the NL last season (46). I look for Contreras to expand upon his pitch calling, and continuing to improve. He has a much better staff in St. Louis then he did in Chicago last season, and St. Louis fans should be excited to have one of the most consistent catchers now on their team.

3. Pittsburgh Pirates (74-88)

   The Pirates? Above the Cubs?! Pittsburgh will benefit from not playing as many division games this year, and I like their core of players by a slight edge over Chicago this season. It all starts with O’Neil Cruz, who in 87 games last year posted a 2.3 WAR with 77 hits, 17 home runs, and stole 10 bases. Cruz, who is 6’7 and plays shortstop for Pittsburgh (yes you read that right), is the centerpiece for this team for the future (until he signs elsewhere later in his career because lets be honest - Pittsburgh won’t pay him.) Cruz hit four triples, which was 9th best in the NL last season, and his defense must improve. He recorded the fastest infield throw last (96.7 mph), but also committed the most errors in the NL and for a shortstop (17). I expect a full season of Cruz to be electric, and throw in third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes, and you have a stellar left side of your infield. Hayes, who signed an 8-year, $70 million contract before last season, has showed gradual improvement over his last three seasons, improving in most offensive categories. Hayes is also a great defender, posting the most NL putouts at third base last season (109), while also leading the NL in assists at third (307), and also put together a .972 FLD %, which was the best for a third baseman last season. Starting pitcher Mitch Keller returns to lead a pitching staff that was towards the bottom in most major categories, such as ERA (26th - 4.66), Saves (26th - 33) Strikeouts (22nd - 1,250) and WHIP (27th - 1.420). Pittsburgh signed journeyman starting pitcher Rich Hill to a 1-year, $8 million deal in the offseason, and hopes his veteran presence and playoff experience will help this young ball club. Hill, who appeared in 26 games last season for Boston, was reliable enough to pitch 124 innings and striking out 109 batters. One pitcher I can’t wait to see when he “puts it all together” is Roansy Contreras, who at 23 years old will be the future of this staff. Contreras, who has spent time between the rotation and the bullpen, looks like the fifth spot in the rotation is his to lose this season. Pittsburgh has said they plan to keep him on an innings limit (again) this season to protect his arm, after throwing 95 innings last season, and posting a 3.79 ERA while striking out 86. Look for Pittsburgh to mash this year, and potentially ruin playoff chances for other teams, as they’re a few years away from playoff consideration.

   Player to watch: Bryan Reynolds

   Many (including me) don’t expect Reynolds to be on Pittsburgh’s roster after the trade deadline this season. He was the talk of a lot of trade speculation, and even received a contract offer from Pittsburgh (6-years, $75 million), which was followed by his camp countering for $120 million. Needless to stay contract talks have halted. Reynolds who is a versatile outfielder, led Pittsburgh last season in hits (142), triples (4), home runs (27), RBI’s (62), batting average (.262), OPB% (.345), and SLG% (.461). One can see why the counter when it came to financials for his next contract, something he truly deserves. I expect Reynolds to be moved to a contender, and then will get the contract he deserves going into the 2024 season. He’s a great player that can push a playoff team to the next level with his ability to get on base and hit for power.

4. Chicago Cubs (68-94)

   The “north siders” made a big splash in free agency this offseason, when they lured shortstop Dansby Swanson to Chicago. Swanson, who played seven seasons in Atlanta, and winning a World Series title in 2021, will look to continue his offensive dominance as one of the best hitting shortstops in MLB. Swanson, who played 162 games last season, tallied 177 hits, 32 doubles, 25 home runs, and a .447 SLG%, which he would have led the Cubs in a majority of those stats, and others, if he was on their team last season. Swanson’s bat, along with his great defense, will give Chicago a solid shortstop, one they haven’t had since Javier Baéz. Swanson won his first gold glove last season, after he led the NL in assists at shortstop (391), and had the second most putouts as an NL shortstop (193). Chicago also took a chance on free agent Cody Bellinger in the offseason, signing him to a 1-year, $17.5 million deal. Bellinger, who won the 2019 NL MVP, has seen his career take a “plunge” since that season in which he hit 47 home runs and drove in 115 RBI’s. He seems to be trying to re-figure out his swing, as he’s struck out 244 times, and only collected 158 hits, 29 home runs, and a “whopping” .193 batting average over the last two seasons. Bellinger is betting on himself for a bounce back, in hopes he can sign a long-term deal after this season. Ian Happ, who enters free agency after this season, will look to build upon his 17 home run, 72 RBI 2022 campaign, one in which he led Chicago in most of their offensive categories. The void of Willson Contreras will be felt both offensively and defensively, but manager David Ross has faith in his pitching staff, especially with Marcus Stroman. In his first full season in the NL, Stroman led Chicago starters with 25 games started, while compiling a 3.50 ERA and striking out 119. Justin Steele was a nice surprise for Chicago last season, showing his reliability in big games, while compiling a 3.18 ERA in 119 innings and striking out 126. I expect him to take another “step” forward this season, as Chicago looks to continue to rebuild.

   Player to watch: Nico Hoerner

   In his first truly “full” season with Chicago, Hoerner showed what he was able to do when given an opportunity to play every day. He was Chicago’s starting shortstop last season, but with the acquisition of Swanson, I expect him to move to third base, a position he has played in the past. Hoerner was towards the top in most offensive categories for Chicago, landing the second most hits (135), fourth most doubles (22), and he led the team in triples (5). With his ability to get on base (.327), he also led Chicago in stolen bases (20), and was third in total bases (197). A player like Hoerner you have to play because of the opportunities he creates for your ball club, something Chicago needs a lot of this season.

5. Cincinnati Reds (59-103)

   Full rebuild mode will continue in Cincinnati once again this year, after seeing their three best players be traded over the last two seasons. I expect Cincinnati to be about the same this season as last, and will start to show gradual improvement leading into next season, especially with the core of this team still intact. Hunter Greene, who debuted for Cincinnati last season, gave fans excitement with his electricity on the mound and potential he showed. The former first round pick, who put together a 2.3 WAR last season, will be “leaned on” to lead this rotation, especially after leading Cincinnati last season in strikeouts (164), innings pitched (125), and third in WHIP (1.21). Joining Greene as another “bright spot” in their rotation is another former first round pick, Nick Lodolo. Last season, Lodolo also made his major league debut, and was able to lead all Cincinnati pitchers in WAR (2.8). Over 103 innings last season, Lodolo struck out 131 batters and posted a 3.66 ERA, which was third best on the team. Lodolo struggled with his control last year, leading MLB in Hit by Pitchers for a pitcher (19), while also throwing six wild pitches in 19 games. Catcher Tyler Stephenson was a welcomed surprise offensively last season, and although it was limited due to injury, Cincinnati fans should be excited what he’ll be able to do when healthy. Last year in 50 games, he was a “machine” at the plate, putting together a .319/.372/.482 slash line, which also produced an .854 OPS. Wil Myers joins Cincinnati after signing a 1-year, $7.5 million deal in the offseason. Expect Myers to play some outfield, first base, and DH, to continue his career as great utility player. Last season in San Diego, Myers was limited to only 77 games due to injury, but he has the potential to give Cincinnati 25+ home runs and 100 RBI’s if healthy. I’m looking for former first round pick Nick Senzel to take a stride forward and live up to the hype surrounding him. He’s been somewhat disappointing in his four “off and on” seasons with Cincinnati, never breaking 100 hits and posting a -1.3 WAR last season. If Cincinnati can get Senzel to contribute offensively, to go along with his great defense, it will be considered successful for them and the team. Cincinnati needs to stay healthy, and if they’re able to, they’ll start building on their youth foundation of their team.

   Player to watch: Joey Votto

   As Votto enters the last year on his deal, it will be interesting to see if he’s brought back in 2024 with the team option that’s on the table. Players like Votto, whom it would be weird to see play for any other team, deserve that respect, and I hope he finishes his career with Cincinnati. Votto will look to continue to prove he’s one of the most consistent hitters in Cincinnati, and although he had a down year last season, he’s shown “flashes” of what he’s capable of. In 2021, he belted 36 home runs (his most since 2017 - also 36), drove in 99 RBI’s, and posted a .563 SLG% and a .938 OPS. Teams like Cincinnati will go as far as their veteran’s will take them, and with some big career numbers on the horizon for Votto, hopefully that gets Cincinnati to play better this season. Votto is six home runs away from 350 for his career, and if he’s able to contribute offensively like he did in 2021, he may be able to become Cincinnati’s all-time leader in other offensive categories, such as OBP% (.412 - Second to Joe Morgan). Votto is fourth all-time in WAR for Cincinnati (64.3), second in OPS (.926), third in total bases (1,106), and first in walks (1,338). He’ll be in Cincinnati’s Hall of Fame when his career is over and time will tell when it comes to Cooperstown.

   NL WEST

1. San Diego Padres (100-62)

   The powerful San Diego offense will finally get past the Los Angeles Dodgers this season, and achieve their first division title since since 2006. As most know, you will only go as far as your best player, and for San Diego that’s superstar third baseman, Manny Machado. The slugger, who led San Diego to the NLCS last season, had his best season since 2015, compiling a 6.8 WAR, while hitting 32 home runs, driving in 102 RBI’s, and posting an .898 OPS. Machado will now be in San Diego for the rest of his career, after recently signing an 11-year, $350 million extension on top of the massive deal he signed four years ago. The six-time All-Star, who finished second in the NL MVP vote last season, has one of the best “supporting casts” in all of baseball, and should he ever have an off night, San Diego should be fine all season offensively. Juan Soto, who was traded to San Diego at the deadline last season, will look to build on the "down” year he had last season, in terms of Soto’s standards. The 24-year old, who will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, is due for a massive payday. Last season, Soto belted 27 home runs, while scoring 93 runs and posting an .853 OPS. He has to be “over the moon” happy to be out of Washington, and it will be interesting to see if he wants to stay in San Diego or leave. San Diego has shown its willingness to spend money on players over the last few years, and that trend continued this offseason with the signing of shortstop Xander Bogaerts. Last season, Bogaerts earned his second consecutive All-Star nod and Silver Slugger, and put up decent numbers for a bad Boston team. He led the team in hits (171), third in RBI’s (73), first in batting average (.307) and OBP% (.377), and was second in SLG% (.456). Plugging those numbers into an explosive lineup only makes San Diego better. Yu Darvish leads San Diego’s pitching staff, and he’s another player that signed an extension in the offseason, after agreeing to a 6-year, $108 million deal. Darvish has bounced around in his career, but seems to have found a great home in Southern California. He finished 8th in the NL Cy Young vote last season while going 16-8, posting a 3.10 ERA, and striking out 197 batters. Joe Musgrove will follow Darvish in the rotation, and this 1-2 “punch” San Diego has looks to be settling in as one of the best in the NL. Musgrove has had his best two seasons of his career in San Diego since arriving in 2021. He’s posted a 3.06 ERA in 62 games and striking out 387 batters. His impressive 1.082 WHIP and 21 makes him one of the best pitchers in all of MLB over that span. Josh Hader will close games for San Diego before he becomes a free agent at season’s end. Hader had strange season in 2022. His ERA was as low as 0.00 in June, and by season’s end, it was 5.22. Batters were seeing the ball a lot better, as he posted a career high in Batting Average on Balls In Play (BAbip -.372), while also having a career low in strikeout percentage (28.2%). Hader is one the game’s best closers, and if he can get back to what he had in Milwaukee, San Diego may win more games than I’m projecting this season.
   

   Player to watch: Fernando Tatis, Jr.

   When Tatis takes the field for San Diego, which won’t be until April 20 as he completes the rest of his 80-game PED suspension, it will be in right field. Tatis makes the move after the signing of Bogaerts, and all eyes will be on him as he tries to get back to being the impactful player he once was. Thanks to injuries and his suspension, Tatis didn’t play at all in 2022, after he had a major breakout season in 2021. That season. he led the NL in home runs (42), while ripping 31 doubles, stealing 25 bases, and posting a .282/.364/.611 slash line. That season, he earned his first All-Star nod, finished third in the NL MVP vote, and got his first Silver Slugger. Tatis is the most electric player in this lineup. If he can start out “on fire” and gain confidence in right field, San Diego should be in good position in the standings to start the season, as they don’t play the rival Dodgers until early May.

2. Los Angeles Dodgers (94-68)

   Los Angeles is still loaded from top to bottom, but I think they regress just a tad this year, but will still make the playoffs for the 11th consecutive season. Clayton Kershaw leads a good rotation, and many wonder if he will be in Los Angeles next season, after signing a 1-year, $20 million deal in the offseason.Kershaw isn’t the same pitcher he once was, but he’s still really freaking good. In 22 starts last season, the 34-year old won 12 games in 126 innings, and only struck out 137 batters, which was the least amount he’s struck out in a season not plagued by injury. Kershaw was just as impressive when it came to advanced pitching stats, posting a 2.57 FIP, a 0.942 WHIP, and batters had a BAbip of .269 against him, which was the fifth lowest he’s allowed in his Hall of Fame career. Southpaw Julio Urías, who has taken major strides in becoming a great pitcher over the last two seasons, will look to make it three years in a row. Urías, who will be a free agent at season’s end, led the team in wins (17), was fourth in ERA (2.16), and also led the team in strikeouts (166). Tony Gonsolin was great last season, and he will look to build off last year’s success. Gonsolin posted career, leading MLB in W-L% (.941) through 130 innings, striking out 119, and earning his first All-Star nomination. Los Angeles will miss dearly starting pitcher Walker Buehler this season, as he recovers from Tommy John surgery. Buehler was emerging as Los Angeles’ future ace after Kershaw, and after appearing in only 12 games last season, his presence was felt after Los Angeles lost to San Diego in the NL Division Series 3-1. While Los Angeles’ pitching may not be as dominant as year’s past, their offense is still one of the most powerful in all of MLB. Led by All-Star Mookie Betts, Los Angeles led MLB in many offensive categories last season. The led the league in runs per game (5.23), runs (847), RBI’s (812), and OPS (.775). Betts leads that offensive charge as he enters his fourth season patrolling right field at Dodger Stadium. Last season, Betts earned his sixth All-Star nod, while leading the NL in runs (117), posting a .533 SLG%, and collecting 40 doubles. Freddie Freeman enters his second season in Los Angeles, after putting together his second best season of his career statistically last season. The former NL MVP led the NL in plate appearances (708), runs (117), and OBP% (.407). He led MLB in hits (199) and doubles (47), while finishing fourth in the NL MVP race. Los Angeles will miss Trea Turner, now in Philadelphia, and Gavin Lux, who tore his ACL in Spring Training this season, but they have the “fire power” to “mash” their way to a lot of wins and contention in the NL.

   Player to watch: Will Smith

   Smith is establishing himself as one of the best catchers in MLB, and after posting his best season statistically in 2022, I look for him to continue to improve his craft. Smith had 132 hits, 26 doubles, and drove in 87 RBI’s last season, and he doesn’t just make an impact at the plate. Over the last two seasons, he’s been in the top five statistically defensively for NL catchers. He finished third last season in defensive games as a catcher (109), second in putouts (968), and finished fourth in Fielding % as a catcher (.997). There is always a great need for a reliable catcher who can play good defense, but also manage a pitching staff. The free agent to be at season’s end, who has the chance for a major pay day after his work with Los Angeles’ stellar rotation over the last four seasons, will be a great asset for Los Angeles this season. If Urias and Gonsolin are better this year than they were last, look no further than their battery mate behind home plate.

3. Arizona Diamondbacks (82-80)

   Arizona will benefit from not having to play division foes San Diego and Los Angeles as many times this year, and I believe they will improve upon their 2022 record. First baseman Christian Walker had his best season to date, and led Arizona in many offensive categories, including hits (141), second in doubles (25), home runs (36), and SLG% (.477), to name a few. Utility man Ketel Marte, who finished fourth in the 2019 NL MVP vote, and who signed a 5-year, $75 million deal this past offseason, will look to continue his dominance of getting on base. Last season, Marte hit 42 doubles, which was 3rd best in the NL, while also collecting 118 hits, and compiling a .407 SLG%. I also expect Josh Rojas (.269/.341/.391), and Alek Thomas (1.4 WAR, 45 runs) to also contribute greatly on the offensive side for Arizona, as well. Arizona acquired top-rated catching prospect Gabriel Moreno for Daulton Varsho during the offseason, and I expect Moreno to become Arizona’s starting catcher. In 25 games with Toronto last season, Moreno had a slash line of .319/.356/.377 with a .733 OPS. Granted that sample size is small, but Arizona is expecting big things from him this season. Zac Gallen leads Arizona’s pitching staff, and will continue to do so this season. In 2022, Gallen led Arizona in wins (13), ERA (2.54), and strikeouts (192). He also led the NL in WHIP (0.913), and led MLB in hits per 9 (5.9) while finishing fifth in the NL Cy Young Vote. Merrill Kelly, who is 34 and only in his fourth major league season, will look to provide another solid season as a starting pitcher for Arizona. Last season, Kelly won 13 games, while starting the most games in all of MLB (33). Through 200 innings, he struck out 177, but walked 61. Kelly will need to work on his control this season, as after his spot in the rotation, Arizona looks bleak. Madison Bumgarner, whose best years are behind him, will look to once again add a veteran presence to the pitching staff, while mentoring Arizona’s up and coming pitching prospects. Arizona has the second best farm system according to ESPN. Bumgarner, who is signed through next season, statistically had the worst season of his career in 2022, posting a -0.8 WAR in 30 appearances with a 4.88 ERA. I expect a slight improvement from Arizona this season, but they’re a few years away from playoff contention.

   Player to watch: Corbin Carroll

   Carroll proved why he’s one of Arizona’s top prospects last season, and look for him to be up for the entire 2023 season. With a unique tool set of both speed and power, Carroll was impressive in only 32 games for Arizona last season, where he had 27 hits, 9 doubles, 14 RBI’s, and slashed .260/.330/.500 with an .830 OPS. His speed is the icing on the cake, as many are expecting him to steal a lot of bases this season, while also patrolling left field. Carroll can play all three outfield positions, and he showed his versatility last season after he compiled a .978 FLD% with 45 defensive chances and 43 putouts. Young players like Carroll are what Arizona needs, and based on the prospects they have, look for them to move up the NL West standings sooner than later.

4. San Francisco Giants (76-86)

   After losing their two biggest free agent targets to the same team this offseason (Carlos Rodón and Aaron Judge), look for San Francisco to “fall back to earth” and regress a little bit in 2023. Starting pitcher Logan Webb moves to the top of San Francisco’s rotation, after an impressive 2022 campaign, one in which he won 15 games (more than Rodón), while also posting a 2.90 ERA with 163 strikeouts. Webb led San Francisco last season in innings pitched (192), while posting a team second best WHIP (1.159) I expect Webb to be better this season, and to get decent support from other starters like Alex Cobb and Alex Wood. Cobb had somewhat of a “resurgence” in 2022, posting his best season statistically since 2017. He appeared in 28 games and 149 innings, his most in both categories since 2018, while striking out 151, his most since 2014 when he was with Tampa Bay. After battling injuries last season, Wood is looking to rebound after battling injuries the past few seasons, and looking to find the magic he had with the Los Angeles Dodgers just a few years ago. Since signing with San Francisco in 2020, would hasn’t been good, going 18-16 through 52 games, while posting a 4.44 ERA with a 3.62 FIP. I don’t expect him to be back in San Francisco next season as he enters free agency this offseason. Camilo Doval will once again be the bright spot in San Francisco’s bullpen this season. In 2022, he racked up 27 saves in 67 innings while striking out 80 batters. He seems to be trending in the right direction, and San Francisco has a star in the making, one they have five more years of team control of. Offensively, look for free agent signing Michael Conforto to lead San Francisco. Conforto, who didn’t play in 2022 due to injury, will look to put plenty of home runs in McCovey Cove this season. A natural pull hitter, Conforto joins an already heavy left-handed hitting lineup, and expect his numbers to improve now that he’s healthy. In 2021, his injuries were showing as he only hit .232 with 55 RBIs. Whereas two seasons, prior, he collected 141 hits, smashed 33 home runs, and drove in 92 RBI’s. He joins fellow southpaw Mike Yastrzemski in the outfield, who is looking to bounce back after a down year. Yastrzemski was San Francisco’s top offensive player last season, posting a 1.9 WAR with 17 home runs and 57 RBI’s. San Francisco will need to improve in all facets this season, or it will be a long year in the bay.

   Player to watch: Joc Pederson

   Pederson and Conforto bring a veteran presence to a young San Francisco team, and I’m looking Pederson to finally have decent back-to-back seasons. Pederson has jumped around the league a lot, starting his career with the rival Los Angeles Dodgers, before playing with the Chicago Cubs and being traded to the Atlanta Braves where he won a ring in 2021. Pederson, who turns 31 in April has the potential to be the best hitter in this lineup - if he wants to. Las season he hit 23 home runs while only driving in 70 runs, but also was able to put up an .874 OPS. I don’t know if it’s his position in the lineup or what, but one would expect anyone who plays in 134 games to put up slightly better numbers. His season last year was decent - don’t get me wrong - but I’ve always looked for Pederson to “put it all together” and especially in San Francisco with the “short porch” in right field, as he’s yet another left-handed hitter in their lineup.

5. Colorado Rockies (69-93)

   The absence of their 2022 offseason signing of Kris Bryant was felt all summer in the Mile High City. Bryant, who signed a 7-year, $182 million deal last season, only appeared in 42 games due to injury. It’s a small sample size, but he was worth the investment in the games he appeared, collecting 49 hits with a .306/.376/.475 slash line. Bryant is healthy and is expected to be ready to go for Opening Day, and they will need him. Brendan Rodgers put together a great season for Colorado, earning a Gold Glove while also collecting 140 hits, 30 doubles, and a .408 SLG%. His 4.3 WAR last season was his best in his young career, and his solid play paired with CJ Cron made Colorado fun to watch last season. Cron proved once again last season he’s a home run hitter after belting 29 and driving in 102 RBI’s. His 29 home runs are his most since 2018 when he hit 30, and second to when he hit 28 with Colorado in 2021. It’s not fun to be a pitcher for Colorado, specifically because of the thin air. Last season, Colorado’s staff had a team ERA of 5.06 (worst in MLB), they allowed the most runs per game (5.39), as well as the 9th most home runs allowed (184). To make matters worse, they also allowed the most hits (1,516), the most runs (873), and only had 1,187 team strikeouts (29th). Led by Kyle Freeland, who led Colorado starting pitchers last season in ERA (4.53), second in innings pitched (174), and second in strikeouts (131). Those numbers aren’t great, but there’s not much Freeland and Germán Márquez can do about playing 81 games in Colorado every season. Marquez, who posted a 1.4 WAR last season, enters his free agency season after having a “dip” in production in 2022. While leading the team in strikeouts (150), he also compiled 13 losses and a 4.95 ERA. I’m sure he and Freeland are thrilled about all the big money spent in San Diego this season. Closer Daniel Bard is the bright spot in the pitching staff, after he saved 34 games and posted a 1.79 ERA last season. His 3.8 WAR was second best on the team behind Rodgers. I’m sorry Colorado fans - it’s going to be another long season, especially being in the powerful NL West.

   Player to watch: Ryan McMahon

   McMahon, a utility player for Colorado, seems to be on the verge of a breakout season, after signing a 6-year, $70 million deal last season. Coming off back-to-back 20+ home run seasons, McMahon will once again look to take advantage of that thin Colorado air once again this season. His ability to get on base (130 hits, 20 doubles, and 60 walks in 2022), should provide useful for players like Bryant and Cron to drive him in. McMahon will need to cut down on the strikeouts, after collecting 158 last season, and 147 in 2021. Turning some of those strikeouts into hits will allow him to prove he was worth the investment Colorado made in him. He had two, three home run games in 2022, while also putting together a 15 game on-base streak, as well.

PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

American League

Wild Card (Best of 3)

Cleveland over Seattle

Toronto over Baltimore

ALDS (Best of 5)

New York over Toronto

Cleveland over Houston

ALCS (Best of 7)

New York over Cleveland

National League

Wild Card (Best of 3)

Atlanta over Philadelphia

Los Angeles over Milwaukee

NLDS (Best of 5)

New York over Los Angeles

Atlanta over San Diego

NLCS (Best of 7)

Atlanta over New York

World Series (Best of 7)

Atlanta over New York

Awards

AL MVP: José Ramirez

NL MVP: Ronald Acuña, Jr.

AL Cy Young: Gerrit Cole

NL Cy Young: Spencer Strider

REFERENCES

• Baseball-Reference

• Major League Baseball