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This Spring Training has shown so much potential from the Chicago Cubs roster, and it cannot be denied that the club is so happy to see that there are a lot of impressive talents who are capable of putting up huge numbers on the field. Pete Crow-Armstrong is one of those efficient players who are showing great performances so far. If Spring Training wasn’t enough to see how Crow-Armstrong has elevated his game, then perhaps the season will be the next best thing to gauge his possible performances now more than ever. With a lot of prospects, veterans, and new signings trying to leave their mark at this point, and it is safe to say that Crow-Armstrong’s development has been really phenomenal. This high level of play from Crow-Armstrong is just really impressive. His potential exceeds expectations, and he is shattering the standards set before him as he now seeks to prove that he is indeed one of the valuable stars in the team that they can rely on heading into the season. Who knows, maybe Crow-Armstrong is an MVP in the making for the Cubs, and may well be the missing piece they need to allocate in order to get back into the postseason. Lights Never Too Bright Pete Crow-Armstrong is turning heads this Spring Training, showcasing his remarkable talent and making a strong case for a spot on the Chicago Cubs’ roster. The 21-year-old outfielder is having an outstanding start, posting an eye-popping .520/.500/1.040 slash line with 10 RBIs, nine runs, three home runs, and only seven strikeouts through nine games. Crow-Armstrong has been nothing short of dominant at the plate, with a staggering 1.540 OPS, demonstrating his power and discipline against some of the best pitchers in the game. His performance has not only impressed the Cubs’ coaching staff but also added to the growing excitement surrounding his potential future with the team. “My place here is a little more meaningful,” the 22-year-old said this spring. “And I’m so glad to be out of the prospect status. This offseason was a full focus on finding something that's consistent, just a consistent move. Because I know the pitching is not gonna be any easier.” With the Cubs looking to rebuild and compete for the postseason, Crow-Armstrong's fast rise could be a key piece in their future success. Fans are eager to see whether his breakout performance in camp will earn him a call-up sooner rather than later. If this Spring Training is any indication, the Cubs may have another rising star on their hands. Giving Credit for Himself Crow-Armstrong has certainly evolved into a phenomenal performer this Spring Training, and the numbers say a lot about his activity. Sure, his hitting has really been quite the charm, but then his value in wearing the gloves and wheels is also something that he needs to work out on if he wants to be a big star. “I didn't think I played all that good defense last year,” said Crow-Armstrong. “I felt like I lost it for a while last year and then got it back. I just don't think I gave myself enough credit. I don't think I was able to remind myself that I'm the same defender. If anything, that's the one thing that is the most similar to what happens in the minor leagues.” The Cubs are gearing up for their season-opening series against the Dodgers in Tokyo, marking an exciting start to what could be a memorable season on the North Side. However, for Crow-Armstrong, who dreamed of playing in front of a packed Wrigley Field long before it became a reality, Chicago's home opener on April 4 can't arrive soon enough.

It was a huge disappointment when the Chicago Cubs clearly missed out on the potential signing of Alex Bregman, however, it cannot be denied that Matt Shaw – a rookie on the rise, is expected to come up with some massive games in the coming season and deliver some huge performances as he takes up the chalk on the third base. Shaw has shown strong offensive skills throughout his time in the minors. His combination of power and ability to make consistent contact could make him a dangerous bat in the Cubs lineup. If he can translate his college performance to the majors, he could immediately provide the Cubs with another dynamic hitter. One thing that has stood out about Shaw is his maturity on the field. Even with the minor setback of his oblique injury, he’s shown resilience and a strong mental game. This mental toughness, paired with his natural talent, could help him handle the pressures of the big league grind. The Cubs, who are in a bit of a rebuilding phase, could benefit immensely from Shaw's ability to stay composed and focused during high-stress moments. Impact on the Cubs’ Hopes While the Cubs already have a solid core of players, Shaw could provide the depth they need to improve in several areas. His bat, particularly, could help lengthen the lineup and give opposing pitchers more to think about. The Cubs are in the midst of trying to build a more potent offense, and Shaw could be a key part of that. "He’s got a really slow heartbeat," Chicago's bench coach Ryan Flaherty said of the rookie’s potential. "You watch him in the on-deck circle, it’s like: ‘Are you really ready to hit right now?’ He’s got that calmness and confidence in himself and the way he prepares. He’s got a ton of confidence without being too cocky...he’s figured out every level he’s gone to [and] found a way to master it pretty quickly. There will probably be growing pains early in the year, but the track record shows that he’ll adjust quickly." Beyond just the 2025 season, Shaw has the potential to be a cornerstone for the Cubs' future. His development as a hitter and his ability to step up when needed could make him one of the central figures in the team’s rebuild. If he performs well, Shaw could be a mainstay in the Cubs’ lineup for years to come, helping to lay the foundation for sustained success. It can be remembered that he put up solid numbers in his run with Tennessee, showing off a very solid .279/.373/.468 with 14 home runs and 50 RBI over the first 86 games of the season. Shaw also finished the year in Triple-A with a .298/.395/.534 line and adding an additional seven home runs and 21 RBI. Seeking Bigger Progress If Matt Shaw stays healthy and continues to progress, there’s no doubt he can be a significant boost for the Chicago Cubs. His combination of offensive potential, defensive flexibility, and mental resilience makes him a player to watch closely. The Cubs are in need of young talent to step up and contribute, and Shaw has all the tools to do just that. Whether or not he can adjust to the MLB right away remains to be seen, but if his early signs are any indication, he could play a huge role in the team’s success both now and in the years ahead.

After being traded in the offseason, Garrett Crochet is seemingly adamant in taking his game to the next level as he keeps on firing up big performances in Spring Training so far. The former star has been able to impress on multiple fronts for the Red Sox, and it is turning out to be an impressive run so far as he gears up for a huge campaign in the making. Now that they have a standout pitcher on the front, it goes without saying that the Boston Red Sox are starting to feel more confident than before. After all, it all begins with a standout pitcher at the top of the rotation, and Crochet certainly fits the bill on that end with the way he has evolved so far. Standout Confidence Crochet’s adjustment to the Red Sox rotation has been seamless. He even made it look easy as he even attended the team’s Fenway Fest in January to show that he’s really eager to work on the chemistry with the rest of the squad so far. However, it seems that manager Alex Cora himself is also keen to see more from Crochet and has strong faith that he would do well in the squad. “He’s just a strong dude who knows his art, or his craft,” said Red Sox manager Alex Cora. “He’s working hard with the pitching group to keep getting better. I think for him, last year was last year. He just got a taste of what it is to be a big league starter. And he's eager to get this going and give us 30 starts and then help us win.” Many people didn’t expect to see Crochet become an important piece for a team – let alone a squad such as the Boston Red Sox. They are already eyeing to sign him an extension this season before the star reaches the free agency market after the 2026 season, and so far, the club is making sure that they get him comfortable so far. “Right away, I felt like I belonged,” said Crochet. “I think that everyone is just getting along really well. The camaraderie is really good. Tons of communication from hitters and pitchers, and guys are really meshing well together. I feel like you don't get that too often at this point in the year.” Seeking Long-Term Stay So far, the setup right now is that Crochet will be pitching in front of the Red Sox fans for the next two seasons. Boston will then have his contractual rights until then, which means that reaching an extension with the star is certainly a massive priority for the team now more than ever. “Staying in Boston long term is something that has a lot of merit in my mind and something that I think would be awesome,” Crochet said. “But in the meantime, I'm just focused on Spring Training and getting ready for the upcoming season. Try and just stay focused one day at a time. And, when something is presented, then we'll attack it.” Crochet was brought into the rotation for the Boston Red Sox after he was traded to the club back in December. So far, he has managed to come up with a strong run to begin his early games in Spring Training, which says a lot about how the season is expected to unfold for him with his impressive left hand on the strong work.

It cannot be denied that Kris Bryant’s game against the Chicago White Sox has been a promising run that is showing fans a glimpse of what he can offer, but then one can expect that his health has been really a major factor heading into this campaign as the Colorado Rockies hope to get on the winning track now more than ever. Considering that Bryant literally has the largest free agent deal in franchise history, the clear commitment by the Rockies not to move him in the offseason means that they are going to stick with him heading into this 2025 MLB season with the goal of finally getting back on the playoff stage after missing out on the previous campaign. Many critics claim that it has been really bad with Bryant being the centerpiece of the team, and there’s a boatload of articles online that tell you how the team’s fans are really hoping to see some major changes down the stretch. However, it seems that the management is confident enough to see through the remainder of Bryant’s deal before they try and exhaust all of their options heading into the campaign and beyond. Bryant Got More on the Tank? At the age of 33, it is easy to hint that Kris Bryant may well be on the final years of his MLB career. Spending the most of his career with the Chicago Cubs before going on a single season with the San Francisco Giants and later signing with the Colorado Rockies in 2022, Bryant has been one of the promising talents we have seen over the years. It can be remembered that he has been an all-star in 2015, 2016, 2019, and 2021. The past few years, however, have been filled with injuries that have really hampered his strong potential in the game. He has missed significant time with the Rockies, and it cannot be denied that his .218/.323/.301 slashline in 2024 was not really a good look on him being the centerpiece of the team. Many people believe that Bryant’s deal with the Rockies is starting to look like the worst in baseball so far, and they are right to be. After all, the team now ruling him out despite having many injuries over the years is still a baffling thought. Now that Bryant’s on the halfway mark in his contract, it seems that there are going to be bigger expectations considering how the future does seem bleak with the former MVP. Realistic Expectations for Kris Bryant In 2025, the realistic expectation for Kris Bryant hinges on one main factor: games played. For Colorado to consider his season a success, he must participate in at least 100 games—this is the baseline requirement. Bryant has yet to reach this mark in his time with the Rockies, so hitting that threshold must be the first priority before discussing any other performance metrics. Assuming he does manage to play in 100 games, a reasonable projection for his stats would be a .228 batting average, 12 home runs, and 48 RBIs. This is slightly more conservative than his RotoChamp projections, but the hope is that he can surpass these numbers without much difficulty. While this level of production may seem underwhelming for a player on a significant contract, the focus for now is on modest progress. Of course, a return to his former elite form would be ideal, but at this stage, the goal is simply to take small steps forward. If Bryant struggles again in 2025, Colorado’s front office may be forced to make a decision about his future with the team. Nevertheless, for his career and the Rockies' prospects, it is essential that Bryant starts rebuilding his relevance in 2025.

Tendering his contract earlier in the offseason, it seems that the Washington Nationals are now headed for the same track with Kyle Finnegan now coming back to play for the club heading into the rest of the Spring Training games before the 2025 season. So far, it has been quite a good move, and it positions them well to address their closer needs. While the Nationals are in a rebuilding phase, one thing they don’t take for granted is the importance of a dependable bullpen. That’s where Finnegan’s value shines. He’s proven time and time again that he can be trusted to pitch in high-leverage situations, whether it’s setting up for a closer or getting out of a jam in the middle of a game. At the age of 33, Finnegan became a free agent after the team did not tender the final year of his arbitration eligibility. So far, Finnegan is coming off his first All-Star season, and he is even ranking third among all relievers in saves as well, which makes him promising to look out for in the game moving forward. Impressive Control in Big Moments Finnegan’s ability to step into pressure-filled moments with poise is invaluable to the Nats. Whether it’s coming in to close out a game or entering in the middle of an inning with runners on base, he’s shown that he can handle the heat. For a team looking to establish a winning culture, having a pitcher who can perform when the game is on the line is essential, and Finnegan has embraced that role. One area of Finnegan's game that’s improved over the years is his control. In the past, he could be prone to walks, but he’s steadily reduced his walk rate, giving him more confidence to pound the strike zone. That command has been especially important in tight situations when the margin for error is slim. The 33-year-old right-hander boasts a 3.56 career ERA over five seasons. Over the past two years, Finnegan has racked up 66 saves, ranking fourth in MLB, behind only Emmanuel Clase (91), Josh Hader (67), and Raisel Iglesias (67). Being able to consistently throw strikes—without putting batters on base for free—is what separates a good reliever from a great one. Finnegan’s evolution in this area has been a big reason why he’s become a more reliable option for manager Davey Martinez. His ability to keep hitters off balance and stay within himself when facing pressure situations is an underappreciated but vital part of his effectiveness. Providing Leadership Aside from his on-the-field performance, Finnegan’s role in the clubhouse cannot be overlooked. As a veteran presence in the bullpen, he’s part of the leadership group that helps guide younger pitchers. The Nationals have several developing arms, and having someone like Finnegan to mentor and set an example for them is crucial in their development process. His experience—especially pitching in tight games—is invaluable when passing on knowledge to younger relievers who will eventually play important roles themselves. This kind of leadership is often what transforms a good bullpen into a great one, and Finnegan’s steadying influence has helped shape the culture within Washington’s pitching staff. Kyle Finnegan may not always get the recognition he deserves, but his impact on the Washington Nationals is undeniable. His fastball, control, ability to pitch in high-leverage situations, and leadership qualities make him a key figure in the Nats’ bullpen. As the team continues to rebuild and work toward contention, Finnegan’s steady presence will likely remain one of their most important assets.

Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara took the mound for the first time in 521 days on Sunday, reaching 99.3 mph on the radar gun and tossing a scoreless inning in Miami’s 1-1 Grapefruit League tie against the Mets at Clover Park. The 29-year-old right-hander, who underwent Tommy John surgery on October 6, 2023, had not pitched in a game since a rehab start for Triple-A Jacksonville on September 21, 2023. His road to recovery included playing catch for the first time on March 9, 2024, and throwing live batting practice on September 17. There was a possibility of Alcantara returning last season had the Marlins been in the postseason race. Sunday’s outing marked the beginning of Alcantara’s progression toward the season opener. Miami has already announced that he will make his franchise-record fifth Opening Day start on March 27, when the Marlins host Pittsburgh at loanDepot Park. Bring Velocity to Another Level Velocity has always been a hallmark of Sandy Alcantara's game, and Sunday was no exception. In 2023, only Reds right-hander Hunter Greene (98.3 mph) averaged a higher fastball velocity than Alcantara, who came in at 97.8 mph. Of the 17 pitches Alcantara threw (13 for strikes) against the Mets, five registered at 99 mph or higher—no other Major League starter has hit 99 mph this spring. “I know that the hard work that I was doing in the offseason, during my rehab, today, my arm feels so good, and I'm just trying to let it go,” Alcantara said. “I was good throwing where I want to throw it, just missed a couple times, trying to be too perfect. But after that, just trying to throw in the middle and let those guys swing.” After firing a 97.8 mph first pitch, Alcantara induced a soft lineout to first from Luisangel Acuña. Mark Vientos then singled to right, but Alcantara got a grounder from Brett Baty that should’ve been a routine double play. However, second baseman Javier Sanoja bobbled the ball, settling for just one out. Alcantara finished his inning with a 98.7 mph sinker that Jose Siri swung through for strike three. The outing surpassed even Alcantara’s own expectations. He had wondered if rust might cause him to walk a batter, but as it turned out, that was never a concern. A Thankful Vibe Sandy Alcántara certainly has the potential to come back stronger than ever. He's always been known for his electric stuff, workhorse mentality, and durability. If he's coming off an injury or a rough patch, his recovery will depend on a few factors, but given his talent and his track record, it's not out of the question for him to bounce back stronger. “I say ‘Thanks God’ for giving me the opportunity to be out there and compete and be healthy,” Alcantara said. “It feels great after a long time without competing. So everything feels great today. Little nervous, but after that first pitch, I forget about everything.” The key would be his ability to adjust to any changes in his mechanics, strength, and conditioning, especially if there's been an injury. He's still young, and pitchers often find new ways to improve after dealing with adversity. With his high-velocity fastball and nasty changeup, if he can stay healthy and refine his secondary pitches, he could absolutely return to elite form, or even better.

The Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS), presented by T-Mobile, will be tested in roughly 60% of Spring Training games this year as MLB evaluates whether it’s ready for the Major League level. The system, which tracks pitch location with high precision, aims to make ball-and-strike calls based on where pitches cross the plate. While many are hopeful that this will reduce controversial calls, MLB is taking a cautious approach. They’re using the exhibition season to gather feedback and data to ensure the technology can maintain fairness without undermining the tradition of human involvement in the game. This experiment is part of MLB’s broader effort to modernize the game while preserving its core values. The ABS will be tested under real-game conditions to determine whether it can improve the accuracy of the strike zone without compromising the integrity of the game. Since 1864, the strike zone has been a source of disagreement, with players and managers frequently challenging umpires’ calls. Over the years, these calls have sparked countless arguments, ejections, and even physical confrontations. As technology advanced, the idea of replacing human umpires with robots gained traction. How Does the ABS Challenge System Work? The ABS Challenge System is designed to provide the best of both worlds—enhanced pitch tracking technology with the human element of challenges. It’s a key part of MLB’s efforts to modernize the game while preserving some of the traditions that make baseball unique. As the system is tested during Spring Training, both players and fans will have the chance to see how effective this hybrid approach is in ensuring fairness and accuracy on the field. “This is a pretty big decision for the game of baseball,” said MLB executive vice president of baseball operations Morgan Sword, “that we want to get everybody to weigh in on.” After a pitch is called a ball or strike by the ABS, players can challenge the call if they believe it was incorrect. Teams are typically given a set number of challenges per game (usually one or two), and if the challenge is successful, the call is overturned. If it’s not, the team loses a challenge for the remainder of the game. This system aims to strike a balance between technology and human oversight, ensuring that incorrect calls can still be reviewed and adjusted when necessary. How Will the ABS Challenge System Impact the MLB? The introduction of the ABS Challenge System has the potential to significantly change the dynamic of Major League Baseball, blending cutting-edge technology with the traditional human element. By allowing players to challenge ball-and-strike calls, the system could shift the way managers and players approach the game, creating a more strategic layer to the decision-making process. Additionally, the ABS Challenge System could alter how umpires and players interact during games. While human umpires would still have the final authority in overseeing the game, players would no longer have to rely solely on their ability to argue calls. However, the success of the ABS Challenge System in adding a new dynamic depends on how well it’s integrated into the game. If it disrupts the flow too much or leads to frequent delays, it could detract from the game’s pace. On the other hand, if it enhances fairness and adds a compelling new layer of strategy, it could become an integral part of the sport. As MLB continues to test the system, the potential for this hybrid approach to reshape the dynamics of baseball is something players, managers, and fans will be watching closely.

The American League Championship Series was proof that Giancarlo Stanton was really a phenomenal player in his own right. However, it seems that there will be major concerns moving forward as his sore elbow has been quite a questionable part of the game as he now seeks to rehab his elbow moving forward – at least before. Stanton has proved his worth over the years, and his return to George M. Steinbrenner Field was a show of force – proving that he is still indeed one of the best performers in the game at this point in time, which says a lot about how he is expected to bring his big game to the next level now more than ever. For that to happen, however, Stanton will need to recover at a drastic scale – considering that he is slated to miss out on the Opening Day at the very least. New York is coming in as a heavy pick to win the World Series this year despite falling short to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. Stanton, at this point, should well be among the best picks to bring the high-level energy that the team needs to make a thriving case in the season. Stanton in Doubt Despite reporting to the Yankees’ training, Stanton has been really working hard to get back on track at this point. He underwent a mandatory physical exam for the team, and the results weren’t really much promising to begin with. However, there are high hopes that the star will still manage to get healthy before the season begins. “He was doing stuff [in the offseason] and then he kind of shut down and got treatments,” Boone said. “It’s just something we don’t want to rush, if we can get to a really good spot and know we’re going to have to probably deal with some maintenance with it throughout the year. We don’t want to force anything too early.” Boone mentioned that Stanton played through an injury in 2024, which became particularly bothersome to him after the All-Star break. His performance took a hit in the second half, as he slashed .210/.292/.446 with nine home runs and 27 RBIs over 45 games. In the first half, he had a much stronger showing, posting a .246/.302/.492 line with 18 homers and 45 RBIs in 69 games. However, his struggles were quickly overshadowed by his postseason heroics, where he delivered a .273/.339/.709 slash line, including three doubles, seven homers, and 16 RBIs across 14 games against the Royals, Guardians, and Dodgers. Staying Healthy is a Challenge Staying healthy has been a challenge for Stanton, who spent a month on the injured list last season due to a left hamstring strain. Most of his injuries, however, have been related to his lower body. Over the past four years, he’s had multiple IL stints for issues with his left quadriceps, right ankle, left Achilles, and twice for his left hamstring. If Stanton isn’t ready for Opening Day, Boone may rotate the DH spot among several options, including team captain Aaron Judge. Boone has indicated that Cody Bellinger will shift from center field to right field on days when Judge serves as the DH. “He’s a huge part of our lineup, especially now that we’re a bit more left-handed,” Boone said. “Taking a big right-handed bat out of there would make us a little unbalanced.” Boone also mentioned that outfielder Trent Grisham has been dealing with a hamstring strain he picked up during the offseason. Grisham will be “a little bit behind” the other position players but has been running at nearly full speed as of Sunday.

Clayton Kershaw has been one of the most promising performers in the game over the years, and now he returns for bigger games while wearing the same uniform for the Los Angeles Dodgers as he seeks to help them win back-to-back World Series finishes once more. Injuries have limited Clayton Kershaw from playing the best of his games in the 2024 season, even missing the entire playoff run that saw the Dodgers sit at the top of the big stage once more. The pitcher did, however, claim to want more action in 2025 with the hopes of redeeming his game once more and helping the Dodgers come up with the best run that the world has seen in a long while. While the club has not confirmed the deal, Kershaw has agreed to a deal that will bring him back to Los Angeles once more after he underwent offseason toe and knee surgeries and is expected to miss time to open the season. At this point, there are high hopes that Kershaw will be able to deliver a promising run again. A Legendary Icon Back for Los Angeles Clayton Kershaw has been a cornerstone of the Dodgers franchise, establishing himself as one of the best pitchers in MLB history over his 17-year career. A three-time Cy Young Award winner and one-time MVP, Kershaw has been selected to 10 All-Star teams. His career ERA stands at an impressive 2.50, and his 156 ERA+ ranks first all-time among pitchers with at least 2,000 innings. After declining his 2025 player option, Kershaw became a free agent, but his return to the Dodgers seemed all but certain. With spring training underway and media day in full swing, the Dodgers' heightened expectations for the upcoming season were clear, with many players emphasizing a focus on the daily grind leading to the ultimate goal: repeating as World Series champions. "His commitment to be here on the first day with the guys and being out there -- he's more than just a player," veteran infielder Miguel Rojas said. "He shows what this organization is all about. It's about being together from the beginning and … being unselfish in all capacities, and that's what Kersh does, you know? From 2011 to 2017, Kershaw was at the peak of his career, making the All-Star team every year and finishing no lower than fifth in NL Cy Young voting in each of those seven seasons. Over 207 starts in that stretch, he posted an outstanding 118-41 record, a 2.10 ERA (179 ERA+), a 0.91 WHIP, and an impressive 5.73 K/BB ratio. For Better Health Kershaw is aiming for better health in 2025 after a tumultuous 2024 season, in which he only pitched 30 innings. The 36-year-old left-hander underwent left shoulder surgery in November 2023, delaying his 2024 debut until July 25. Unfortunately, after just seven starts, Kershaw was sidelined again with a left big toe injury. During those starts, he posted a 4.50 ERA. While Kershaw has dealt with various injuries and a decline in velocity in recent years, his performance had remained relatively steady until 2024. From 2018 to 2023, he made 133 appearances (132 starts) and compiled a 66-28 record with a 2.77 ERA (149 ERA+), a 1.01 WHIP, and a 5.09 K/BB ratio, demonstrating that, even in his later years, he remains a highly effective pitcher when healthy. Heading into 2025, the key question for Kershaw will be whether he can regain his health and return to his former level of dominance. Though injuries have started to take their toll, the Dodgers will continue to lean on his vast experience and leadership, understanding that, even if he's not quite the pitcher he once was, Kershaw still possesses the talent and wisdom to be a valuable contributor to their pitching staff.

Fan-favorite and versatile player Kiké Hernández has agreed to return to the Dodgers. With Hernández back in the fold, the Dodgers’ roster is largely set, barring the expected re-signing of Clayton Kershaw. The team’s 40-man roster is currently full, but roster spots will open up this week when the team places injured players on the 60-day injured list. The Dodgers have carefully balanced adding top-tier talent with retaining key members of their championship team. Hernández, along with Teoscar Hernández and Blake Treinen, is one of the notable returnees in free agency, having played a pivotal role in the team’s eighth World Series title. The Dodgers are getting stacked again, and it is worth noting that this is a squad that won the World Series, and not in dire need of a huge splash in the offseason – and adding Hernández seems to be quite another win that the team could be happy about at this point in time. After all, they didn’t close the door for the star and made sure that he would have the chance to return to the club when the time comes. A Splash Signing Hernández shines brightest in high-pressure moments, boasting a career .874 OPS in the postseason, with 15 home runs. Since 2021, he has hit .352 with a 1.008 OPS and seven postseason home runs. With 11 years of experience, Hernández brings depth to the bench and versatility in the field. Although he is a below-average hitter overall (career 92 OPS+), he remains a valuable platoon option who can still provide occasional power. In 2024, he hit 12 home runs in 126 games for the Dodgers. In recent seasons, injuries and health issues have affected Hernández's performance, and his career .713 OPS has dipped in the past two years. However, his .654 OPS in 2024 marked his best performance since a .786 OPS with the Red Sox in 2021. Hernández is known for his solid plate discipline, as evidenced by his 26.4% chase rate in 2024, and his 19.6% whiff rate, which was better than the league average. He also posted an average exit velocity just below 90 mph, above the league norm. Still, he finished 2024 with a .229 batting average and a .281 on-base percentage. That says a lot about how Hernández may well be a huge, underrated addition that many clubs in the league have overlooked, and now the Dodgers have managed to come up with another swashbuckler in the squad. Bringing the Thunder The Dodgers are definitely making a lot of impressive strides so far, and one can say that the defending World Series champions are going to be quite the squad to look out for again, and that has been really capped off by the signing that brought Kiké Hernández back into the fold of the Dodgers royalty squad. Los Angeles has built a roster that is not only deep but also remarkably versatile, with a potent combination of offense, defense, and pitching. On offense, the Dodgers have added some of the best talent available while retaining key players who were instrumental in their 2024 World Series victory. With a lineup brimming with power hitters, elite contact players, and players who thrive in clutch moments, the Dodgers have the offensive firepower to outslug any team in the league. The Dodgers have spent this offseason meticulously assembling a roster designed to accomplish something that hasn’t been done since 2000: repeat as World Series champions. With a mix of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and strategic additions, the team is undeniably one of the most talented and well-rounded in baseball, if not the best.

Carlos Carrasco has arrived back in New York once more, and the right hander seems to be excited to get a big chance once more as the Yankees are keen to give him a shot on the reserves as he enters a Minor league deal heading into the 2025 MLB season, which seems to be quite the talk as the World Series contenders seek redemption this time around. Carrasco is slated to turn 38 on March 21, and yet New York is keen to bring him in for a chance to also redeem himself now more than ever. The right-hander played three years in New York from 2021 to 2023, with the Mets, but then he spent the majority of his career with the Cleveland Guardians, where he also returned for the previous campaign. At this point, Carrasco now hopes that he can deliver a fiery performance when needed, and it seems that the Yankees are willing to give him that shot that he needs to jump start his career once more. With a contender, Carrasco has the biggest tools he needs to get back on track now more than ever. A New Chapter for Carrasco Last year, Carlos Carrasco posted a 3-10 record with a 5.64 ERA in 103 2/3 innings over 21 starts for the Cleveland Guardians. Despite the struggles, he maintained a solid 31.3% chase rate, which ranked in the 79th percentile across all of Major League Baseball, according to Baseball Savant. While his overall performance left something to be desired, his ability to induce swings outside the strike zone suggests there are still tools in his game that could be valuable. Carrasco has a long and established career in the majors, with a 4.14 ERA over 324 games (277 starts) across 15 seasons. His most notable campaign came in 2017, when he tied for the league lead in wins with 18 and posted a 3.29 ERA in 200 innings over 32 starts. That performance earned him a fourth-place finish in the American League Cy Young Award voting, highlighting the level of success he has achieved at his peak. Although his performance has been more inconsistent in recent seasons, Carrasco isn't far removed from a quality year. In 2022, he posted 15 wins and a 3.97 ERA in 152 innings over 29 starts for the New York Mets, proving he still has the ability to contribute at a high level when healthy. That season demonstrated that Carrasco can still provide solid innings, even if he's not quite the same pitcher as he was during his Cy Young-caliber years. Managing Expectations Carrasco’s career also includes a remarkable comeback story. In 2019, he was named the American League Comeback Player of the Year after battling chronic myeloid leukemia. He missed three months of that season for treatment but made an emotional return in September, ultimately contributing in a bullpen role for Cleveland over the final month of the regular season. His resilience during that time further solidified his reputation as a fighter. Looking ahead, Carrasco may need an injury or two to make the New York Yankees' Opening Day roster out of Spring Training. The Yankees’ rotation is led by co-aces Gerrit Cole and Max Fried, with Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman all in the mix for starting spots. Adding a veteran like Carrasco could prove to be a wise move for the Yankees, especially with the uncertainty that comes with Spring Training battles. Even if he doesn't break camp as a starter, Carrasco’s presence would give the team added depth, and his ability to step into a rotation role if needed could prove crucial over the course of a long season.