 As awards season heats up, it's important to highlight the All-MLB Team presented by MGM Rewards, which uniquely honors the best players across Major League Baseball, considering the entirety of the season. This prestigious accolade stands apart from others by acknowledging the comprehensive performance of players throughout the year.
Sixth Annual All-MLB Team Announcement The sixth annual All-MLB Team was announced on Thursday night, celebrating the standout performers of the 2024 season. Like in previous years, the selection process was split evenly between fan votes (50%) and a panel of experts (50%). This ensures a balanced perspective, combining popular opinion with professional insight. The All-MLB Team is divided into First and Second Teams, each featuring one selection per position: catcher, first base, second base, shortstop, third base, designated hitter (DH), three outfielders (regardless of specific outfield position), five starting pitchers, and two relievers. Voters were instructed to consider only regular-season performance when casting their ballots. Team Highlights The San Diego Padres led the 2024 selections with four players on the All-MLB teams. The Kansas City Royals, Houston Astros, and Los Angeles Dodgers followed closely, each with three players selected. Notably, the Dodgers, Yankees, and Guardians were the only teams with multiple First Team honorees, showcasing their top-tier talent. 2024 All-MLB Teams First Team
Second Team
Conclusion The All-MLB Team continues to be a significant accolade, recognizing the top performers across Major League Baseball. By considering the entirety of the season and combining fan input with expert analysis, the All-MLB Team provides a comprehensive snapshot of the best players in the game. Fans and players alike eagerly anticipate this annual announcement, celebrating the achievements of the sport's elite. Congratulations to all the 2024 All-MLB Team honorees!
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The Boston Red Sox took a significant step in their pursuit of star outfielder Juan Soto by meeting with him and his representatives, including renowned agent Scott Boras, in Southern California on Thursday night. The three-hour meeting, reported by Sean McAdam of MassLive, was characterized as "productive" and served as an introductory and informative session. Importantly, discussions did not venture into specific financial terms or contract details.
A Historic Presentation Soto, one of the most sought-after talents in baseball, was reportedly "impressed" by Boston's presentation. The Red Sox showcased a video highlighting their storied history of star players from the Dominican Republic, Soto’s home country. This nod to their rich heritage was a strategic move, aimed at resonating with Soto on a personal level. Vision for the Future In addition to honoring their past, the Red Sox laid out an ambitious vision for the future. They detailed a promising pipeline of prospects who could potentially join forces with Soto to drive the team’s success in the coming years. This forward-looking approach is a critical aspect of Boston’s pitch, as they aim to build a competitive roster around the young phenom. Next Steps While this initial meeting set a positive tone, it is just the beginning of a series of discussions Soto is expected to have with multiple teams in Southern California over the next few days. The Red Sox will hope that their blend of historical reverence and future promise will set them apart in the competitive pursuit of Soto's signature. By fostering a connection with Soto and presenting a comprehensive plan for the future, the Red Sox have positioned themselves as serious contenders in the race to secure one of baseball’s brightest stars. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching as these negotiations unfold. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and Soto continues his meetings with potential suitors. The Boston Red Sox have bolstered their bullpen by signing veteran left-handed reliever Justin Wilson to a one-year contract. With this addition, Boston's 40-man roster is now at full capacity. Wilson, represented by ACES, is guaranteed $2.25 million under the new deal, with potential incentives totaling an additional $750,000. He can earn $150,000 for reaching each of 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60 appearances.
Career and Recent Performance Justin Wilson, 37, has an extensive track record in the majors, although recent years have seen him struggle with injuries. After returning from Tommy John surgery, Wilson pitched 46 2/3 innings for the Cincinnati Reds last year, ending the season with a 5.59 earned run average (ERA). Several factors contributed to these struggles, including an elevated average on balls in play and a high home run rate. The latter was significantly influenced by pitching in Cincinnati's Great American Ball Park, known for being exceptionally hitter-friendly. Seven out of the ten home runs Wilson allowed were at home, a testament to the park's impact on his stats. Encouraging Metrics Despite the disappointing ERA, Wilson's underlying metrics paint a more optimistic picture. He posted a 24.4% strikeout rate and a 6.2% walk rate, both better than the league average. His fastball velocity was impressive, averaging 95.5 mph—the second-highest mark of his career. His cutter also reached a career-high average velocity of 92.3 mph. Advanced metrics like xFIP (3.99) and SIERA (3.41), which account for normalized homer-to-flyball rates, suggest that Wilson could bounce back if he maintains his 2024 performance levels. Historical Success From 2015 to 2020, Wilson was one of the most reliable left-handed relievers in baseball. During that period, he played for the Yankees, Tigers, Cubs, and Mets, accumulating a 3.41 ERA over 291 innings in 344 games. He maintained a 28.2% strikeout rate and a 10.8% walk rate. His command in 2024 showed significant improvement compared to previous seasons, and his ability to generate strikeouts remained intact. Known for his late-inning prowess, Wilson has amassed 142 holds and 20 saves over his 12-year major league career. Looking Ahead The Red Sox are hopeful that Wilson can rebound and provide a reliable left-handed option out of the bullpen. If he can continue to pitch at the level suggested by his underlying metrics, Wilson could be a valuable asset for Boston in their quest for postseason success in 2025. The Tampa Bay Rays have secured a temporary home for the 2025 regular season: George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. This decision comes in the wake of significant damage to Tropicana Field caused by Hurricane Milton last month, with repairs not expected to be completed until 2026.
A New Home for the 2025 SeasonI n light of the extensive damage, the Rays had to find an interim venue for their home games. After considering various options, the team decided on Steinbrenner Field, which serves as the spring training home for the New York Yankees and the Single-A Tampa Tarpons in the Florida State League. “We deeply appreciate that the Yankees have graciously allowed us to play at Steinbrenner Field for the 2025 season,” said Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg. “The hurricane damage to Tropicana Field has forced us to take some extraordinary steps, just as Hurricanes Helene and Milton have forced thousands of families and businesses in our community to adapt to new circumstances as we all recover and rebuild.” Spring Training Arrangements The Rays will continue to use their Charlotte Sports Park facility in Port Charlotte, Fla., for their spring training workouts and home games. The Yankees will hold their spring training games at Steinbrenner Field before the Rays take over for the regular season. “We are happy to extend our hand to the Rays and their fans by providing a Major League-quality facility for them to utilize this season,” said Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner. “Both the Yankees organization and my family have deep roots in the Tampa Bay region, and we understand how meaningful it is for Rays players, employees, and fans to have their 2025 home games take place within 30 minutes of Tropicana Field. In times like these, rivalry and competition take a back seat to doing what’s right for our community — which is continuing to help families and businesses rebound from the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.” MLB's Commitment to the Community Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized MLB’s goal of keeping the Rays close to their fans in the Tampa Bay area. The selection of Steinbrenner Field meets this objective, ensuring that Rays fans can still enjoy home games within their local market. “Given the significant challenges caused by Hurricane Milton, I appreciate the hard work and collaboration between the two teams that allowed the Rays to make the best decision for next season," Manfred said. "This outcome meets Major League Baseball’s goals that Rays’ fans will see their team play next season in their home market and that their players can remain home without disruption to their families.” Conclusion The decision to play the 2025 season at George M. Steinbrenner Field reflects the resilience and adaptability of the Rays organization. With the support of the Yankees and the MLB community, the Rays and their fans can look forward to a season of competitive baseball, even in the face of adversity. In an effort to bolster their roster, the Atlanta Braves have made several key signings to their minor league system. According to their transaction logs on MLB.com, the Braves have signed infielder Charles Leblanc and catcher Yohel Pozo to minor league contracts. Both players had opted for free agency earlier this offseason. Additionally, MLB Trade Rumors has reported that the Braves have also brought on infielder Kobe Kato on a minor league deal. Charles Leblanc: A Versatile InfielderCharles Leblanc, who spent his age-28 season with the Los Angeles Angels organization, brings a wealth of experience and versatility to the Braves. In 98 Triple-A games, Leblanc hit .254/.379/.437, with 12 home runs and an impressive 16.4% walk rate. He also made a brief appearance in the big leagues, hitting two home runs in 28 plate appearances. Leblanc was originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in the fourth round of the 2016 MLB Draft. He has a career batting line of .259/.364/.454 across four Triple-A seasons and has played 197 games in the majors with a .254/.330/.412 line. Primarily a third baseman, Leblanc has also logged over 1,000 innings at both second and first base, 473 innings at shortstop, and 376 innings in left field. Yohel Pozo: Adding Depth Behind the PlateCatcher Yohel Pozo, who signed with the Rangers as an international free agent in 2013, brings additional depth to the Braves' catching corps. Pozo made his MLB debut with the Rangers in 2021, appearing in 21 games, mostly as a designated hitter. During his stint with Texas, he slashed .284/.312/.378 with one home run and nine RBIs. Although Pozo has not appeared in the majors since 2021, he has performed well in Triple-A over the past three seasons with the Rangers and Athletics organizations. Pozo's signing comes as the Braves look to strengthen their catching options following the departure of Travis d'Arnaud this offseason. Kobe Kato: A Rising InfielderThe Braves have also added infielder Kobe Kato, a 25-year-old who was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 13th round of the 2021 MLB Draft. After being released by the Astros early in 2024, Kato found success with the independent York Revolution and earned a new opportunity with the Seattle Mariners. He climbed three minor league levels, reaching Triple-A, and hit .283/.393/.389 with one home run and eight steals in 135 plate appearances. Primarily a second baseman, Kato has also gained experience at shortstop, third base, and all three outfield positions, making him a valuable asset for the Braves' minor league system. Conclusion These signings reflect the Braves' commitment to building a strong and versatile roster. By adding players like Charles Leblanc, Yohel Pozo, and Kobe Kato, the Braves are ensuring they have the depth and talent needed to compete at the highest level. As the 2024 season approaches, these new additions will be closely watched to see how they contribute to the team's success. In a groundbreaking announcement today, Major League Baseball (MLB) revealed its plans to take over the distribution of local broadcasts for the Cincinnati Reds starting in the 2025 season. This significant move promises to enhance how Reds fans experience the games, both on television and through new streaming options.
A Seamless Transition MLB's decision to handle the distribution means that fans can continue enjoying their beloved Reds games on television as they always have. The familiar voices of the broadcasters, the excitement of live action, and the comfort of watching the game from home remain unchanged. The New Streaming Era What sets this announcement apart is the introduction of a direct-to-consumer streaming option. For the first time, Reds fans will have the flexibility to stream games directly to their devices without the worry of blackout restrictions. This streaming service aims to provide a more accessible and convenient way for fans to stay connected with their team, no matter where they are. Benefits for Fans The new streaming option will offer several advantages:
Looking Ahead With MLB taking charge of local broadcasts, the future of Reds games looks bright and inclusive. This move aligns with the league's commitment to embracing modern technology and catering to the evolving preferences of baseball fans. As we await the 2025 season, Reds fans can look forward to a new era of accessibility and convenience. The combination of traditional television broadcasts and innovative streaming options ensures that the excitement of Reds baseball remains within reach for everyone. The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres kicked off the 2024 MLB season with an exciting game on March 20, 2024, at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea. The Dodgers emerged victorious with a 5-2 win over the Padres in the season opener.
Game Summary The Padres took an early lead, scoring two runs in the fourth inning. However, the Dodgers staged a remarkable comeback in the eighth inning, scoring four runs to take the lead. Shohei Ohtani played a crucial role in the rally, driving in a run with a single. The Padres' first baseman, Jake Cronenworth, committed a costly error that allowed the Dodgers to capitalize and secure the win. Key Performances
Betting Odds The Dodgers were favored to win with odds of -200, while the Padres were underdogs at +166. The over/under for total runs scored was set at 8.52. Box Score Highlights
Conclusion The Dodgers' comeback victory in the season opener sets an exciting tone for the rest of the season. With key performances from new additions like Ohtani and Hernández, the Dodgers look poised for a strong season ahead. The Padres, despite the loss, showed resilience and will be looking to bounce back in the next game. It has been rumored for quite a while, but now it is official - Cody Bellinger is returning to the Cubs on a 3 year, $80 Million deal.
Bellinger, aged 28, reportedly has the option to opt out after either the first or second years of the contract. Sources indicate he's slated to earn $30 million for the upcoming season, another $30 million in 2025 (conditional on not opting out after the first year), and $20 million in 2026 (provided he doesn't opt out after the second year). In 2023, Bellinger's improved health propelled him to a standout season, earning him recognition as the National League Comeback Player of the Year. Despite finishing 10th in NL MVP voting, he significantly reduced his strikeout rate compared to previous seasons and demonstrated prowess against left-handed pitchers, boasting a .337 batting average with a .984 OPS against them. Prior to joining the Cubs, Bellinger had endured two challenging seasons due to a lingering shoulder injury sustained during the 2020 playoffs. Despite registering his lowest average exit velocity of his career in 2023 at just 87.9 mph, he adjusted his approach by shortening his swing with two strikes, resulting in softer contact but fewer strikeouts. Remarkably, his whiff rate dropped to a career-low of 15.6%, and he batted .279 with two strikes, ranking second in all of baseball behind Luis Arraez. After securing a deal worth $17.5 million with Chicago, Bellinger earned a Silver Slugger award. He then chose to decline a $25 million option for the current season, entering a market rife with potential for top-tier hitters. However, initial assessments by general managers deemed his asking price excessive. As Bellinger lingered on the market, the pool of teams willing to make significant financial commitments dwindled. Via Mark Sheldon on Twitter, the Reds added Veteran Tony Kemp to the Minor League Roster.
Kemp is in his 9th MLB Season and has previously been with the Astros, Blue Jays, Cubs and Athletics. If he makes the squad, he will get a $1.75 Million contract with $750K in incentives. The Diamondbacks announced the signing of 2 veteran outfielders - Albert Almora Jr and Kyle Garlick - to Minor League Contracts with an invite to Spring Training Camp.
Apart from Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Randal Grichuk, the D-backs roster boasts several left-handed hitting outfielders. Both players being discussed are right-handed hitters. Via Jon Heyman, the Mariners are signing Brian Anderson to a Minor League deal, with a $2 Million guarantee if he makes the roster.
Anderson has been with the Marlins and Brewers during his 7 year MLB career. He has a .252 average, 66 HR and 273 RBI. At 3B and DH, his offense will def give him a chance to make the squad. Jon Heyman reported via Twitter that the Reds have signed Mike Ford to a Minor League deal.
The deal is for $1.3 if he makes the Major League Roster, with another $125K in incentives. This is Fords 6th year in the MLB, with previous stops with the Yankees, Giants, Mariners, Giants and Angels. He has a .211 batting average, 36 HR and 85 RBI. The White Sox announced via Twitter they have claimed OF Peyton Burdick from the Orioles.
To make room, they have placed P Matt Foster on the 6- day IL as he continues to recover from Tommy John surgery. Burdick has appeared in 46 games the last 2 years with the Marlins, while also playing in AAA. Yesterday was quite the day for C Austin Nola.
The Brewers released him, and their GM Matt Arnold had this to say, via Todd Rosiak - “With the addition of Gary Sánchez and our other depth at the catching position, we thought the chance at a new opportunity would be the right thing to do for Austin." — GM Matt Arnold Quickly after that, Ken Rosenthal reported he is signing with the Royals on a Major League Deal. Nola has been the backstop with the Mariners, Blue Jays and Padres. In his 6th year, he is averaging .249 with 24 HR and 136 RBI. Via Francys Romeo on Twitter, the Marlins are inviting P Vladimir Gutierrez to their Spring Training camp after signing him to a Minor League deal.
Gutierrez is in his 3rd year in the MLB, after spending his first 2 with the Reds. He is 10-12 with a 5.44 ERA. In 2016, the Reds won the bidding war for Gutierrez and paid him $4.75 Million to join the club. As he progressed, his command struggled, and as he made his debut in 2021, it just never clicked in Cincy. Hopefully a new start in Miami will get him back on tract. Alex Verdugo, who recently joined the New York Yankees following a trade from the Red Sox, maintains that he harbors no ill will towards Boston manager Alex Cora, despite being benched twice last season.
Verdugo, a left-handed-hitting corner outfielder, spent three seasons under Cora's leadership before the rare trade between the AL East rivals in December. "It's one of those things that, it's a little bit weird, because outside of the game, he was great. Even as a manager, he's a good manager," Verdugo said Thursday from the Yankees' Camp. "In certain ways, 'AC' was hard on me, but I don't have any hard feelings toward him. It's one of those things. Toward the end, we kind of ran our course out a little bit," Verdugo said. "But as a person and outside of baseball, I loved him. I loved his kids, his family." Nice to hear these quotes as this was a major story all winter. In a great interview, Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes joined Foul Territory and had some thoughts on his feelings as Shohei Ohtani was making his decision, one that ended well for the Dodgers.
"You didn't quite know what to do, it was a helpless feeling...we understood that Shohei was going to announce this himself... if we were out, we weren't gonna be told we're out" How stressful that must have been. The world's best player might want to play for you, but might not. This is interview is very well done. Former St. Louis Cardinal and LA Angel Albert Pujols is back in baseball.
Thursday afternoon, the Leones del Escogido of the Dominican Professional Baseball League revealed that Pujols would helm the team during the 2024-25 season. Renowned for their success, the Santo Domingo-based Leones boast four Caribbean Series titles. In a statement delivered in Spanish, team general manager and New York Yankees third base coach Luis Rojas expressed that Pujols was eager to embark on his managerial journey with the club. Rojas also emphasized that Pujols's influence would extend beyond the field, making a significant impact both on and off the diamond. Include the addition of see-through pants to the expanding roster of grievances concerning the upcoming MLB uniforms slated for this season. As spring training games commence, the Players Association is actively engaging with its members across the Cactus and Grapefruit leagues to collect input on this minor uproar, with the aspiration of implementing alterations prior to Opening Day.
"It's disappointing that we've landed in a place where the uniforms are the topic of discussion," executive director of the Players Association, Tony Clark, said on Thursday. "Each conversation with the guys is yielding more information with what we're seeing." Commissioner Rob Manfred has labeled the Nike-generated, Fanatics-produced uniforms as "performance jerseys," a term that gained traction after their debut at last year's All-Star Game. While many players acknowledge their "lighter" feel, there are widespread concerns about their aesthetic appeal. Due to the lightweight fabric, concerns have been raised about the feasibility of incorporating larger numbers and letters on the jerseys, a challenge acknowledged by Clark. Consequently, multiple players have voiced complaints about the back of the jersey appearing "amateurish." Moreover, the introduction of a new eggshell color for the pants, despite retaining the same fabric as last year, has led some to perceive a see-through effect. Additionally, questions have been raised about the overall "fit" of the uniforms. "A lot of the rhetoric is confirmation that the pants are see through," Clark said. "It's been an ongoing conversation where each day has yielded something new that doesn't seem to make as much as sense as you would like it." The Tigers announced they have designated T.J. Hopkins, one day after signing him. He was designated because the team signed Gio Urshula earlier in the day.
It is hard to believe Hopkins won't be on the 40 man roster after all is said and done. The Tigers announced the signing of INF Gio Urshela via Twitter today, a deal with $1.5 Million for 1 year.
Urshela is in his 8th MLB Season, playing for the Guardians, Blue Jays, Yankees, Twins and Angels before joining Detroit. Lifetime, he is .277 batter with 64 HR and 280 RBI. Mets star P Kodai Senga has a mild strain of the posterior capsule in his shoulder, President of Baseball Ops David Stearns said on Thursday.
Senga is expected to start the year on the IL and obviously, this is a huge blow to the Mets rotation. |