Rangers' 'Appetite For Destruction' fuels stunning Game 1 win over Diamondbacks

Things got a little wild in Game 1 of the World Series thanks to the heroics of Adolis Garcia and Corey Seager.

Corbin Carroll's clutch postseason moments a product of talent, work ethic

At 23 years old, playing October baseball for the first time, Corbin Carroll’s list of memorable playoff moments is already impressive enough to make veteran ballplayers wonder where it all went wrong. 

Ronald Acuña Jr. is The Sporting News Player of the Year

Six months ago, if you would have asked a baseball fan what “40/70” meant, you probably would have been met with blank stares. Now, though? Everyone who loves the sport know you’re talking about Ronald Acuña Jr.

The Sporting News 2023 MLB Award Winners and All-Stars

The TSN awards were voted on by the players, managers and executives in the game. 

Five candidates to replace Dusty Baker as the next manager of the Astros

It appears the Astros will soon have arguably the most desired managerial opening in all of baseball.

Why Diamondbacks will beat Rangers in stunning World Series matchup

Here are Sporting News' picks and predictions for the 2023 World Series between the Diamondbacks and Rangers, two surprising finalists that defied the odds throughout the MLB season and playoffs.

Rangers blow past Astros in Game 7; eye first World Series title

Rangers additions prior to spring training were part of a formula that has produced the American League pennant.

The Steve Bartman Game: What it was like inside Wrigley Field

Even now, 20 years later, the level of detail Cubs fan Marc Daniels recalled and the emotion in his voice is pretty incredible. Experiences like that, with the intensity of the highs and the lows, never really leave you.

Rangers' Max Scherzer in position to add to his Hall of Fame resume

Max Scherzer made eight starts for the Rangers before landing on the IL with a shoulder strain, and at the time GM Chris Young indicated that it seemed unlikely the playoffs were part of the equation. But Max being Max, he made sure he was ahead of schedule. 

Could Kim Ng's next stop be with the Mets, Red Sox or even Yankees?

It’s one heck of a time to be a front-office free agent, especially one who is coming off such a successful and surprising season.

Why the Cubs, not Steve Bartman, should have been blamed for 2003 meltdown

Was it Bartman’s fault? No. If the Cubs hadn’t fallen apart, we would never know the name Steve Bartman. 

Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts fail Dodgers in stunning NLDS sweep

The biggest disappointment in this series? Point those blame fingers at the two superstars at the top of the lineup, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman.

Braves, Orioles and Dodgers can't blame extra rest for slow playoff starts

People are upset that baseball is not coddling its top teams enough. 

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde knows how to push his players to succeed

Brandon Hyde is asking, and getting, more from his players, a lesson he learned from his own minor league career.

Four key additions who could help star-studded Phillies win World Series

Let’s take a look at four players who weren’t part of the Phillies' 2022 playoff run who just might help this year’s team seal the deal — and that would include once again crushing Atlanta’s dream.

Yankees offseason priorities: Finding offensive production around Aaron Judge key

Mets offseason priorities: Hire manager, sign Shohei Ohtani

This is shaping up to be the most significant offseason in Steve Cohen’s tenure as the New York Mets’ owner.

MLB playoff predictions: Sporting News experts make their picks

Here’s a prediction that we feel quite confident in making: Even though we don’t know the specifics of what might happen, we do know it’s going to be fun.

Five candidates to replace Buck Showalter as the next manager of the Mets

New Mets director of baseball operations David Stearns dismissed Buck Showalter rather quickly, which may mean he already has in mind who he wants as a successor.

Red Sox offseason priorities: Improve starting pitching, defense

The Red Sox sure haven’t acted like the franchise that won four World Series titles from 2004 to 2018, and not all that blame can be heaped on Chaim Bloom.

Cardinals offseason priorities: Bolster starting pitching, develop young talent

The Cardinals' offseason is not just about plugging holes (like in the rotation), but finding ways to upgrade the overall roster, whether it’s by addition or subtraction.

Top 10 MLB free agents to watch for 2023 offseason

Shohei Ohtani will grab most of the free-agent headlines, and rightfully so, but there are plenty of other impact-type players available this offseason, especially starting pitchers.

MLB Playoff Power Rankings: Braves top list of World Series contenders

We’re not so concerned with overall records; what do the teams look like right now? Are they healthy? Have the trade additions/subtractions made a big impact? What’s their potential path to the World Series?

Ranking the Giants' top candidates to replace Gabe Kapler

Getting the right manager in place will help the Giants' efforts to bring Shohei Ohtani to San Francisco.

MLB playoff clinching scenarios for Cubs, Marlins, Astros, Mariners & more entering final weekend

Here's an updated look at the MLB playoff clinching scenarios for both the American and National leagues entering the final weekend of games for the 2023 regular season.

Breaking down Ronald Acuna Jr.'s historic 40 HR/70 SB season

Sometimes, baseball fans are lucky enough to watch the truly elite players join baseball’s elite clubs. But sometimes, when we’re really lucky, we get to watch an elite player create his own club, and that’s what Ronald Acuña Jr. has done this season.

Four candidates to replace Terry Francona as the next manager of the Guardians

The Terry Francona Era is ending in Cleveland, with the club’s long-time manager — 11 years is forever in today’s baseball climate — expected to retire at the end of the season. 

The next 200-game winner after Adam Wainwright? It might be a while

Gerrit Cole has a good chance, but after that, this milestone is going to be extremely rare.

Adam Wainwright's quest for win No. 200 reaches magical finale in St. Louis

Adam Wainwright's seven scoreless innings in a 1-0 Cardinals victory earned him career win No. 200. It was a magical moment for the pitcher and the fans he's played in front of for 18 seasons.

Just how historic has Braves offense been? Let's break it down

The Braves won their sixth straight NL East title and are on pace to score a franchise record for runs. But that's just one area where their offense has dominated in 2023.

Revisiting 'Little Big League' in honor of Pete Crow-Armstrong's MLB debut

'Little Big League' is an excellent baseball movie, often overlooked and always an entertaining watch. With the news of Pete Crow-Armstrong’s promotion, I watched it again and had thoughts. 

MLB hot seats: Which managers will not be back next season?

Look for at least three teams to be in the market for a new manager this offseason.

MLB Power Rankings: Braves at No. 1, Mariners making late charge

SN Q&A: Joe Posnanski on his latest book, 'Why We Love Baseball'

Sporting News caught up with author Joe Posnanski to discuss how he attacked his latest baseball project and what were some of his favorite parts in researching

Yankees' season of nightmares: Major changes will be on the way this offseason

Yankees fans have gone from 'is this rock bottom?' to 'is there a rock bottom?'

Tony Kemp trying to lead woeful A's during disastrous season

Youth, inexperience and a team potentially on the move to a new city has left the A's flailing. Veteran Tony Kemp is trying his best to lead under difficult circumstances.

Subplots for Shohei Ohtani's trip to Citi Field have changed drastically

The Angels visit the Mets this weekend. How much different does this series look now than it did at the beginning of the season? How much different than, y’know, two days ago?

Here's how and why Shohei Ohtani will still get mega-deal this offseason

Ohtani's next contract will be incentives, opt-outs, bonuses. And maybe even a few tweaks and twists that we’ve never seen before. Not like it would be the first time he's broken new ground.

Where the Rays will turn with Wander Franco on administrative leave

From a baseball perspective, what are the Rays looking at without Franco for now, and possibly the rest of the season? 

Gerrit Cole leads a tight race for AL Cy Young Award

Gerrit Cole is the betting favorite, but he hasn't locked anything up just yet.

NL Cy Young race still wide open with nine weeks remaining

Zac Gallen, Blake Snell and Spencer Strider are a few of those in the mix as the season heads down the stretch.

Will this be Adam Wainwright's final start? Struggling vet faces final challenge

If Adam Wainwright's disastrous season continues, if he gets rocked yet again, his start against the Mets on Thursday just might be the final challenge as a player.

AL MVP race (after Ohtani): A pair of Rangers are fighting for second

Yes, Shohei Ohtani is going to run away with the AL Most Valuable Player Award. So who is playing for second? Two second-year Rangers are lighting it up.

NL MVP race: Who can challenge front-running Ronald Acuña Jr.?

With six weeks left — still a lot of baseball — there are really only two players who could make a run at Ronald Acuña’s title. And, yeah, he’s very familiar with both of them. Let’s take a look. 

Red-hot Cubs in position to challenge for NL Central title

Any Cubs fan will tell you this is a club that’s been up and down — how many fans wanted manager David Ross fired right around mid-April? — but the pieces are there for a long run of consistently excellent baseball.

Shohei Ohtani's time with Angels destined for disappointing end

The chances of Shohei Ohtani wearing an Angels uniform after the 2023 season are even lower than the club’s chances of making the postseason this year.

Yellow City Connect Red Sox jerseys have given Boston almost mystical powers

The Red Sox are 22-4 all-time when wearing their City Connect jerseys, which made their debut in the 2021 campaign. They’ve won their past 10 games wearing the yellow uniforms, including all six games this year.

MLB Power Rankings: Red-hot Cubs make debut in August's TSN15

Some teams have gotten better, some have gotten worse. Welcome to the MLB stretch run.

The Angels are keeping Shohei Ohtani, but will they get their Hollywood ending?

The Angels have done a hell of a job creating the tension, drama and uncertainty that any good script needs to make the audience think there’s no chance of this ending well.

Vintage Sandy Alcantara exactly what Marlins need for second-half playoff push

A locked-in Alcantara would be huge as Miami vies for a spot in the postseason.

Houston's GOAT Mountain of sports: Watt, Olajuwon, Altuve, Campbell

On and off the field, these four icons made a dramatic impact in Houston.

Will Orioles flex farm system power, make a big trade deadline splash?

For the second consecutive season, the Orioles have been baseball’s best, most surprising feel-good team story. 

St. Louis' GOAT Mountain of sports: Stan Musial, Albert Pujols, Brett Hull, Bob Gibson

St. Louis has earned its reputation as one of the great baseball towns in America, and that's well-represented here. But the Gateway City is pretty well represented in other sports, too.

Shohei Ohtani is about to play his most important games with the Angels, a sad reality

It speaks volumes about the current state of the Angels that a few games in July are by far the most important games of Ohtani’s career with the franchise.

Padres should trade Juan Soto, with Phillies and Rays among potential fits

Juan Soto is the Padres' biggest potential prize. He's under contract through 2024, but it wouldn't be a bad idea for San Diego to part ways now.

Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. leave little doubt about this season's MVP awards

Ohtani and Acuña are overwhelming betting favorites, and they don’t have to finish strong to wrap things up. That’s how good they’ve been.

Should MLB's pitch clock be used in postseason? All-Stars weigh in

A pitch-clock violation might cause almost zero ripple in a Royals-Cardinals game in August, but could be a tidal wave-type impact on a Braves-Dodgers game in late October. 

The Angels have failed Shohei Ohtani. They shouldn't fail their fans too.

The Angels tried to win for Ohtani, but it didn't work. Now they need to make sure they don’t fail their fans, too, by not getting a big return for his departure.

Adley Rutschman shows prodigious talent on Derby stage, despite first-round exit

Adley Rutschman just turned in the coolest, most exciting first-round exit in Home Run Derby. And, y’know, that’s something. 

Iconic 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card stands test of time

There is no such thing as a “bad” Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card, but the Upper Deck card stands alone. 

We've seen enough: Elly De La Cruz needs to be added to NL All-Star roster

Elly De La Cruz needs to be invited to Seattle to participate in the All-Star Game next week. I know, I know. He’s only played 29 games in the majors. I do not care about this insignificant number. It’s an excuse, not a reason. 

LSU baseball coach opens up about projected top picks Dylan Crews, Paul Skenes

No college teammates have ever been chosen with the top two picks of the MLB Draft, but history could be made Sunday.

Ranking the 9 best everyday-use quotes from baseball movies

Is there such a thing as using too many quotes from baseball movies in real life? 

MLB Power Rankings: Braves knock Rays out of top spot for July's TSN15

Atlanta has been seemingly unstoppable, but the Rays are still great. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks, Marlins and Reds make jumps.

Phase 1 of Steve Cohen's Mets plans has been a failure. Will Phase 2 be different?

This is Year 3 of the Cohen Era in Flushing, and it’s been the worst one yet. 

Disappointing Cardinals should be sellers, and plenty of teams will be interested

The Cardinals could — and should — be active moving players before and at the deadline. It might feel like a fire sale, but it won’t be. It’ll be a reset, not a step back. 

If the Angels aren't trading Shohei Ohtani, roster upgrades are critical for playoff run

Barring a complete collapse, the Angels are not trading Ohtani before the Aug. 1 deadline, no matter how “smart” of a baseball decision that might be. But now they need to make some other moves.

If the Angels aren't trading Shohei Ohtani, roster upgrades are critical for playoff run

Barring some type of complete collapse over the next couple of weeks, the Angels are not trading Ohtani before the Aug. 1 deadline, no matter how “smart” of a baseball decision that might be.

Better late than never: MLB tapping into England's passion for baseball

There’s a small but determined group trying to grow the sport in England, and the success of the Great Britain team in the WBC and now the London Series this weekend will continue the momentum.

Surging Cubs, Cardinals hoping to use London Series as springboard

Fortunes are starting to turn around for NL Central rivals as they head to London for a two-game series.

Reds are easily baseball's most exciting .500-ish team: 'It’s a special lineup'

The Reds have become as must-watch as any .500-ish team I can remember.

Masataka Yoshida playing like he deserves spot on AL All-Star team

Shohei Ohtani isn't the only player from Japan having an excellent 2023 season.

Elly De La Cruz and his blinding speed have Reds primed for playoff push

Those who have watched De La Cruz through the minors know that his big bat is only part of the reason why he seems destined to be a superstar in the bigs. His speed can also kill.

Shohei Ohtani trade decision made difficult with Angels in playoff limbo

This is a “define the next decade” decision for the Angels, and the clock is ticking.

Jacob deGrom now seems destined for What Might Have Been club, not Cooperstown

Jacob deGrom has a Hall of Fame arm. But he's headed for Tommy John surgery and expected to miss at least a year, meaning his Cooperstown hopes have almost certainly ended.

MLB Power Rankings: Rangers shoot way up on June's TSN15

It’s the first full week of June, which means it’s time for the updated TSN15.

Dodgers rookie James Outman breaks mold of mid-major hitting prospect

Rookie slugger James Outman slipped under the radar in the Dodgers minor league system known for developing young talent. How?

#TheHobby Life: Victor Wembanyama hype hits trading card industry

At some point soon, the market will be flooded with Victor Wembanyama cards.

Breaking down Mark DeRosa's frenetic but entertaining MLB Network breakdowns

On MLB Network, ballplayer-turned-broadcaster Mark DeRosa loves to stand in front of a giant TV screen and teach baseball. 

The inspiring story of Greg Poole, his baseball cards and his mission to help others

Greg Poole is a unique person. He uses his love of baseball cards to fund his passion for helping others, and his community reaps the benefits.

Struggling Cardinals face brutal stretch as season teeters on brink

The Cardinals have the worst record in the National League, and the schedule offers little respite for a team that is having problems virtually everywhere.

Shohei Ohtani's 2024 free-agent tour rolls through St. Louis, with more stops ahead

MLB's new balanced schedule gives Ohtani a chance to visit ballparks and experience game day atmospheres he might otherwise not experience. That’s good first-hand knowledge when making the decision on where he will play the next 10 years, right?

Shohei Ohtani and Lars Nootbaar, fast friends playing for Japan in WBC, reunite in St. Louis

What does a unicorn do on a rare day off? Rest, mostly. At least, that’s what Shohei Ohtani was doing when Lars Nootbaar reached out on Monday.

#TheHobby Life: Diamond Kings artist Dick Perez chats about upcoming documentary on his life

Documentary filmmaker Marq Evans is producing a feature-length film on Perez, whose iconic card illustrations were staples for many collectors in the '80s and early '90s.

The Lee Elia rant: Breaking down the epic 1983 tirade of profanity

On April 29, 1983, Cubs manager Lee Elia unleashed an epic rant, one laced with profanity that will be celebrated every late April for as long as the sport of baseball exists. 

Why Dodgers, Cardinals, Phillies and Astros should have optimism despite slow starts

The slate of games this weekend, the final weekend of the first month of the season, is rather fascinating. Two series in particular stand out because, frankly, the teams involved have not played nearly to the level of expectations — internal or external — heading into the year. 

MLB Power Rankings: Rays sit atop the inaugural TSN15

We're ranking MLB teams from 1 to 12. Why only 12? Because that’s how many teams make the playoffs — six in the AL, six in the NL. But we'll also discuss three more teams to watch.

List of MLB managers on hot seat looks different now than before Opening Day

Let's try to figure out which skippers might be headed in the wrong direction and which ones are taking unwarranted heat.

Ranking the best Japanese players in MLB history, from Ichiro and Ohtani to Kazuhiro Sasaki

Everywhere you look, it seems, there’s a player who first achieved success playing in Japan making an impact on the 2023 MLB season. So that got us thinking: Who are the best players from Japan in MLB history? 

Diamondbacks' impressive start to season shows 100-loss days are gone

Will the Diamondbacks compete with the Dodgers and Padres for the NL West title all season? It’s not impossible.

Jarred Kelenic is finally producing like the Mets wanted (sorry, New York)

Mets fans were angry when prospect Kelenic was traded to the Mariners in 2018, and now the anger feels justified.

Andrew McCutchen comes 'full circle' to star with Bryan Reynolds, the prospect he was traded for

From the moment the inevitable trade that every Pirates fan dreaded became official on Jan. 15, 2018, Andrew McCutchen and Bryan Reynolds became forever linked in Pittsburgh baseball history.

The Rays are 13-0, but what does that tell us about their future?

The Rays' 13-game winning streak has given their odds in Vegas a massive jump in every way — odds to win the division, odds to make the playoffs and even odds to win the World Series. But what does this mean? 

MLB pitch-clock rules have presented challenges for broadcasters, but with positive results

The ripple effects of baseball’s new pitch clock have been felt across the sport, but perhaps nowhere — other than the mound and the batters box — more so than the broadcast booth. 

#TheHobby Life: eBay buying and selling tips for trading cards

Everyone who buys and sells on eBay at one point had their initial foray into the marketplace, and most everyone who stuck with it knows more now than they did when they started.

Ranking the 10 best characters in classic baseball movie 'Major League'

Today, on the anniversary of the release of the iconic baseball movie, we’re ranking its 10 best characters.

Do Cardinals have a Tyler O'Neill problem, or is it much ado about nothing?

The Cardinals have a situation, what is essentially a difference of opinion between manager Oliver Marmol and outfielder Tyler O’Neill, about a moment in Tuesday night’s loss to Atlanta.

Pitch clock mental effects: How MLB pitchers, hitters are learning to adjust their routines

Adapting to MLB's new rule is a challenge unlike any that’s been presented in baseball — learning to live with a clock in a sport that’s never really had a clock. 

Overlooked aspect of MLB pitch clock: How will batters use their timeout?

The timeout dilemma is another new, though mostly overlooked, addition to the baseball landscape in 2023.

MLB Power Rankings, Opening Day edition: Astros, even without Jose Altuve, take top spot

Power rankings in baseball are, at best, fun conversation starters. They’re a way for you to get a sense of how others view your favorite team, outside the bubble/echo chamber of your team’s fandom. 

Rangers have big contracts, big expectations deep in the heart of Texas

The Rangers were aggressive in the offseason, and the moves seem primed to pay off.

#TheHobby Life: Anthony Volpe and Jordan Walker's strong springs have their card prices surging

Anthony Volpe and Jordan Walker managed to light up the card hobby with electric performances on the field, and both didn’t just convince collectors that their futures are bright, they convinced their bosses, too. 

Houston's Kelvin Sampson continues to win big in second act as college coach

Six years after an abrupt end to his time at Indiana, Sampson was hired to revive the University of Houston program in 2014 — and that’s exactly what he’s done.

The two biggest takeaways from an incredible 2023 World Baseball Classic

The 2023 WBC bore little resemblance to the 2006 and 2009 versions of the tournament, the first two times Japan won, and that’s a good thing.

Mike Trout vs. Shohei Ohtani: WBC final offers MLB fans chance for dream showdown

The dream scenario is alive and well. What’s that dream? Oh, no biggie, just the possibility of watching the two Angels teammate superstars face off on a global stage.

Watching Shohei Ohtani thrive in intense WBC, it's hard to see him staying with Angels

Shohei Ohtani had the time of his life in the WBC, leading Team Japan to a title and winning tournament MVP. Now, you can’t help but wonder about his future.

#TheHobby Life: A beginner's guide to numbered cards

Some numbered cards are a big deal. Some aren't. So when should you get excited? Let's dig in.

March Madness predictions 2023: Ryan Fagan's expert NCAA Tournament bracket picks

Sporting News college basketball expert Ryan Fagan breaks down his 2023 March Madness bracket, including predictions from every Round 1 game to picks for the Final Four.

March Madness upset predictions 2023: Which 10 seed is most likely to win in first round?

No. 10 seeds upset a No. 7 seed nearly 40 percent of the time in the NCAA Tournament. Here's a look at the 10s most likely to pull out a Round 1 win in the 2023 March Madness bracket.

Great Britain's stunning WBC success helping grow the sport in U.K.

The story of Great Britain baseball’s 2023 World Baseball Classic experience is about triumph and tragedy, about successes and failures. It’s also a story of the GB baseball family that shared those experiences around the sport they love. 

Randy Arozarena's lucky cowboy boots have Mexico in Pool C driver's seat in WBC

For Randy Arozarena, it’s gotta be the shoes. Well, boots. It’s gotta be the boots. 

#TheHobby Life: Cubs rookie Ethan Roberts chases his Topps rainbow during Tommy John rehab

Turns out, it was the real Ethan Roberts who messaged me on eBay. 

USA in a world of trouble at WBC after being routed by Mexico

The U.S. has the best collection of players in the 2023 World Baseball Classic but not the best team, as it showed in getting steamrolled by Mexico.

Guillermo Zuñiga's huge moment for Colombia another blow for David vs. Goliath at WBC

The Cardinals reliever showed off his big arm in a big spot in a big opening game for Colombia and Mexico.

Bustin' Out predictions, AL West: Is Jarred Kelenic's hot spring for real?

We’re taking a spin around the majors, looking for one player from each team capable of, as they say, taking it up a notch and becoming a star — or, a bigger star — in 2023.

How will Japan use Shohei Ohtani in WBC? 'Whatever the team needs'

This whole WBC thing is a welcome challenge for someone who lives to embrace challenges. Ohtani’s prepared to do whatever it takes for Japan.

Inside Japan's pepper-grinder celebration that Lars Nootbaar taught Shohei Ohtani

The celebration is one Nootbaar started in St. Louis last year to celebrate when his teammates would grind out a few hits or a few runs. Get it?

Bustin' Out predictions, NL West: Dodgers' Big Red primed for star turn if he stays healthy

We're taking a spin around the majors, looking for one player from each team capable of, as they say, taking it up a notch and becoming a star — or, a bigger star — in 2023.

Shohei Ohtani tops list of 75 best players in the WBC

The WBC rosters are stacked, as you’ve probably heard.

World Baseball Classic 2023: Japan's Roki Sasaki leads list of seven best non-MLB players

The WBC offers the chance for baseball fans in America to see some of the best non-MLB players in the world. Here are seven names you really should pay attention to this year.

#TheHobby Life: What could Fanatics' 'biggest product announcement in history of trading cards' be?

We’ll hear the big announcement from Fanatics eventually, hopefully sooner than later. Until then, it’s fun to guess.

2023 World Baseball Classic: Ranking the top seven infield units

The infield starters are very good, but some of the backups are elite talents too.

2023 World Baseball Classic: Ranking the top seven outfield groups

This is a crazy-good collection of outfielders.

Bustin' Out predictions, AL Central: Royals' Vinnie Pasquantino becomes an All-Star

We’re taking a spin around the majors, looking for one player from each team capable of, as they say, taking it up a notch and becoming a star — or, a bigger star — in 2023.

2023 World Baseball Classic: Ranking the top seven pitching rotations

Rotation depth matters in the World Baseball Classic. 

Bustin' Out, NL Central: Reds' Hunter Greene ready to challenge for Cy Young votes

Who will bust out in 2023 and reach their potential in the NL Central?

WBC lineup decisions won't be easy for Mark DeRosa with loaded USA roster

The expected Team USA starting lineup is slightly ridiculous. 

MLB's new pitch clock is good, but one big rule adjustment is needed

Let’s make sure the solution doesn’t become the problem. 

#TheHobby Life: Will Topps/Fanatics' decision to weaken retail product backfire?

Let the retail boxes sit on the shelves. It’s going to be tough. Believe me, I know. 

Bustin' Out predictions, AL East: Clarke Schmidt seizes opportunity in Yankees rotation

A month ago, Schmidt seemed destined for another year in a hybrid role in New York. But now, starter Frankie Montas is out after shoulder surgery, which means a spot in the rotation is available.

Bustin' Out predictions, NL East: Marlins fans will get MVP-caliber season from Jazz Chisholm

We’re going to take a spin around the majors, looking for one player from each team capable of, as they say, taking it up a notch and becoming a star — or, a bigger star — in 2023.

#TheHobby Life: Royals reliever Taylor Clarke's 'full circle' collection with twin boys

Taylor Clarke has figured out the answer to the question that has, for decades, frustrated collectors standing in front of rows and rows of boxes of trading cards at retail stores or local card shops: Which box should I pick? 

#TheHobby Life: 2023 Topps Series 1 'Release Day' is almost here, folks

Topps 2023 Series 1 debuts Wednesday. It's just as exciting as ever.

World Baseball Classic 2023: MLB team-by-team roster breakdown

The World Baseball Classic rosters are in! There will certainly be changes to just about every team’s roster between today and the start of play — such is the nature of spring training — but this is the starting point

2023 World Baseball Classic: 10 pitcher-hitter matchups we can't wait to see

The list of reasons to watch the World Baseball Classic this spring is long, and right up there at the top is this: The WBC offers us a chance to see pitcher vs. hitter matchups we just wouldn’t get a chance to see. 

Ranking the 23 best MLB seasons by players wearing No. 23

The competition to make the list of the 23 best seasons by players wearing No. 23 was more fierce than I imagined.

One optimistic prediction for every National League team in 2023

Let's take a few minutes and look at the National League with some reality-based rose-colored glasses.

One optimistic prediction for every American League team in 2023

Let’s take a few minutes and look at the 2023 MLB season through reality-based rose-colored glasses. 

Ranking the 25 best baseball-movie quotes of all time

Truth is, there’s no definitive list of baseball movie quotes, and a quote that might be No. 3 after one watching might feel like No. 1 next time.

Adrián Beltré headlines Hall of Fame class of 2024 ballot

Let’s take a look at the BBWAA ballot for the class of 2024, the newcomers and the holdovers.

For Team USA, World Baseball Classic is 'a competition, not an exhibition'

As the World Baseball Classic draws closer — the first game is March 8, in Taiwan — there’s a phrase that those involved with Team USA ruminate on every day. Think of it almost as a rallying cry.

What Hall of Fame options exist for Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Curt Schilling and Sammy Sosa?

The Hall of Fame journey isn’t over for Bonds, Clemens, Schilling and Sosa. When one Hall of Fame door closes another potential Cooperstown door opens.

With Andrew McCutchen back in Pittsburgh, one reunion we'd love to see for every MLB fan base

We couldn’t help but wonder what other potential feel-good reunion stories could be on the horizon, sooner or later. So we found at least one for every franchise.

With Carlos Correa out of Mets' mix, will Steve Cohen set sights on Shohei Ohtani or Juan Soto?

The Mets will not have Carlos Correa in their lineup for 2023 and beyond. That’s bad news for their 2023 season, but not devastating news.

Ranking the Junk Wax Era years of baseball cards, from 1987 to 1993

Will Shohei Ohtani, a free agent next offseason, command a $450 million contract?

It's not a stretch to say Ohtani will be the most anticipated, fascinating and desired free agent in baseball's free-agent era. 

Baseball Hall of Fame 2023: TSN's Ryan Fagan explains his BBWAA ballot

Here are the six players I voted for, in alphabetical order by last name: Bobby Abreu, Carlos Beltran, Mark Buehrle, Manny Ramirez, Scott Rolen and Gary Sheffield. 

A look into the thought process behind MLB's surge of long-term contracts

What goes into the thought process behind handing out long-term deals? We know why the players do it — money, security, control, etc. — but what about from the other side? 

Red Sox top list of five most disappointing offseasons so far

But for every happy MLB fan base, there is one experiencing a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad offseason of what-might-have-been wishes and runner-up dreams.

Carlos Correa gives Giants their star power, but upgrades still needed

Carlos Correa was a massive upgrade, but he’s just one piece of the puzzle if San Francisco wants to be playoff-competitive again this year.

The Mets have spent freely this offseason, but have they actually gotten better?

No other MLB team has even come close to matching the Mets’ free-agent work. But has the team improved? Truth is, I’m not sure.

Boston's bungling of Xander Bogaerts situation doesn't bode well for keeping Rafael Devers

We’re more than a month into the offseason, and the Red Sox have more pressing issues than most teams that want to consider themselves playoff contenders for 2023.

How Yankees can get better after Aaron Judge signing: Cut the dead weight

Yankees fans want to know what’s next, now that Aaron Judge is back. The answer starts with another bold move or two: addition by subtraction, then figuring it out from there. 

Massive Aaron Judge contract keeps Yankees mystique alive — but just barely

In the end, Aaron Judge forced the Yankees to admit they needed him more than he needed them, and they paid up.

How the Angels can go all-in to win before Shohei Ohtani leaves next year

Will the Angels actually push all their chips in to make a good run before Shohei Ohtani leaves? Probably not. But they could and should.

Aaron Judge's decision headlines packed Winter Meetings agenda

We have been promised fireworks at the Winter Meetings, folks. Here are several storylines we’ll be watching, some closer than others.

Why Fred McGriff could have the Hall of Fame stage all to himself in 2023

Fred McGriff's induction in Cooperstown would be later than he deserved, but standing alone on the stage, well, maybe that would make up for the delay, just a little bit.

Justin Verlander free agent predictions: From favorites to potential mystery teams

It’s hard to imagine Justin Verlander signing with a team that doesn’t have an obvious opportunity to compete for a World Series title in 2023 and 2024. 

Carlos Correa free agency predictions: Can Dodgers, Yankees forgive and forget?

Carlos Correa is an outstanding baseball player. Let’s take a look at his most likely suitors this offseason.

Jacob deGrom free agency predictions: Mets, Dodgers top list of likely suitors

Lots of teams would love to see Jacob deGrom wearing their uniform next year. But not everyone can afford his price tag.

Will the Dodgers go after Aaron Judge? A look at LA's biggest offseason needs

The Dodgers are at a bit of a crossroads.

Forget reinstatement for Pete Rose, MLB should finally sever all ties

Pete Rose wants back in baseball’s good graces. Again. Nothing’s changed, mind you, but he’s asking anyway. MLB should again reject the request, then stop associating with Rose forever.

Trea Turner free agency predictions: Phillies, Dodgers among best landing spots

Trea Turner has been ranked anywhere from the top free agent available to the fifth-best free agent available, and the market for his services is rather fascinating.

Why Hunter Greene might wind up being the best NL player to debut in 2022

The Reds' Hunter Greene did not receive a single vote on a 2022 National League Rookie of the Year ballot. But when we look back at the rookies from the class of 2022 in five years, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the flame-throwing right-hander from Cincinnati will be the best player who made his NL debut this season.

Projected landing spots for top FAs, from Aaron Judge to Jacob deGrom

Sometimes, the MLB free-agent truth is strange. No matter how much reporting is done and relied upon, free-agent predictions are mostly speculation. With that in mind, let’s start our informed speculation predictions.

The 11 most intriguing MLB trade candidates this offseason

There are some interesting names that could be on the move before Opening Day 2023.

Ranking the top 89 MLB free agents for 2023

The top of the MLB free-agent class is extremely talented, as always, and if your favorite team needs a shortstop, there are several really good options.

How a small moment from Martin Maldonado led to Yordan Alvarez's World Series-winning homer

History will long celebrate the mammoth 450-foot home run by Yordan Alvarez in the sixth inning of Game 6, but that epic World Series moment doesn’t happen without the roughly 18 inches of real estate that veteran catcher Martin Maldonado boldly claimed just a few minutes earlier. 

Dusty Baker again just one win away from elusive World Series title as manager

With one more win, Dusty Baker, baseball lifer, can check off about the only box that remains unchecked in his epic career.

Mr. October impressed with Cristian Javier's World Series Game 4 gem

Reggie Jackson, king of World Series sluggers and now a special adviser for the Astros, watched Javier’s effort with a sense of awe. 

Confident Phillies believe in momentum, power of Citizens Bank Park crowd

Momentum isn’t tangible. It’s not quantifiable. It’s basically a feeling, and feelings can change quickly. But the Phillies have the feeling.

Astros' fatal flaw in World Series losses: Sticking with starting pitchers too long

The Astros have consistently left pitchers in the game too long. And not just the starters, though that’s been the most problematic trend. 

2008 World Series rain debacle influencing 2022 weather decisions

For two of the most important days of the 2008 baseball calendar, a nor’easter enveloped eastern Pennsylvania in sadness.

Astros again show their biggest World Series weakness is playing at home

The Astros lost a home game in the World Series. Again. It’s become a disturbing habit for the American League’s best team.

Bryce Harper's Philly love story leads club into World Series

Phillies fans have loved Bryce Harper from the moment the superstar slugger chose the Philadelphia as his new baseball home. It’s Philly love, of course, so it’s laced with a bit of skepticism and angst and even occasional boos, but it’s still love.

At least Justin Verlander doesn't have to face Pablo Sandoval in this World Series Game 1 start

Verlander’s Game 1 start in 2012 was especially painful. 

World Series 2022: Ranking every player on Phillies, Astros rosters

Both World Series rosters are loaded with star power, and this clash between the Phillies and Astros promises to be a lot of fun, no matter what the regular-season records look like.

Two-out magic moments help lead Phillies, Astros to World Series clash

Aaron Judge landing spots: Ranking the best free-agent fits

The Yankees can’t possibly give Aaron Judge another reason to walk away, can they?

Yankees-Astros ALCS arrives with history of drama, bad blood

The history between New York and Houston might not have an impact on the field this year — on paper, the Astros are a significantly better team — but it can’t be ignored.

Angels must trade Shohei Ohtani for good of the franchise

The Angels can no longer ignore the writing on the wall because, well, it’s no longer just writing on the wall.

One player from each remaining playoff team who arrived quietly but had a big impact

Here’s one player from each remaining playoff teams who has made a major impact, and how it happened.

After rough Wild Card Series, higher-rated umpires up for Division Series

10 potential MLB free agents who could boost their value in the playoffs

We’re looking at guys who would gain a massive benefit from “2022 postseason hero” tagged to their free-agent resumes.

Phillies' top hitters will look to end lumber slumber when they face Braves in NLDS

The NL's third wild card swept the Central champion despite not getting much production from its top hitters. They'll look to swing it a lot better vs. the East champ.

How the Cardinals gifted the Phillies a crazy ninth-inning comeback

The loudspeakers at Busch Stadium blared “Hells Bells” as Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley entered with one out in the eighth inning and the home team holding a 2-0 lead. By the time the logic-defying ninth inning had ended, the only tune that came to mind was the Benny Hill theme. 

Ranking all 12 teams by chances of winning World Series

Breaking down the path to a championship and other October factors for the 12 playoff teams.

Aaron Judge leads ranking of Top 10 MLB free agents for 2023

There could be a bidding war between the Yankees, Mets and Giants for Aaron Judge in the offseason.

Four Yadier Molina stories you need to know about the future Hall of Famer

To commemorate his impending retirement of the future Hall of Famer, we asked four ballplayers, with four very different perspectives on his life and his career, for Yadier Molina stories. We were not disappointed. 

With 62nd home run, Aaron Judge officially joins ranks of Yankee immortality

Welcome to legend status, Aaron Judge. Your arrival wasn’t immediate, but it was inevitable.

Playoff drought ended, Mariners on 'cusp of something pretty special'

The first step, reaching the postseason, has been clinched. The second part is bringing playoff baseball back to Seattle. The third part? Getting back year after year.

Three reasons why Mets-Braves NL East showdown series is so important

A first-round bye could be huge, as could the ability to set up an ideal pitching rotation.

'Slow pulse' Braves rookies could be difference-makers in October

Braves fans have reason to be excited for what might be ahead. 

Mariners still in position to end playoff drought despite ugly road trip

This isn’t the first bit of adversity the Seattle club has faced this season.

Two years into Tony La Russa experiment, White Sox should call it quits

The Tony La Russa experiment did not work. That’s the diplomatic, factual way to put it.

Where does Albert Pujols rank among baseball's all-time best players?

However you choose to define “inner circle” Hall of Famer, that’s where Albert Pujols belongs.

Race for final two NL wild-card spots has been more slog than sprint

San Diego, Philadelphia and Milwaukee haven’t exactly been in a dead sprint toward the postseason.

Albert Pujols' chase for 700 filled with important homers in key moments

Have Pujols' home runs mattered as much as the Cardinals say they have? Spoiler: They have.

Adam Wainwright, Yadier Molina about to set MLB record that won't be broken

Tonight, as Yadier Molina crouches behind the plate and Adam Wainwright settles himself on the mound and the Cardinals square off with the Brewers under the shadow of the Gateway Arch, baseball history will be made.

Stacked U.S. roster eager for opportunity in World Baseball Classic

It’s safe to say these superstars on the U.S. squad didn’t have to be bribed to be part of the team. Quite the opposite.