
<p>There is a unique subset of baseball players, known as relief pitchers, who have played a crucial role in securing wins for their teams throughout <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-winners-from-2023-draft-20230716-SPD-3787.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major League Baseball</a>‘s storied history. These unsung heroes may not get much of the spotlight, but their contributions to the game are invaluable.</p>



<p>There will always be fresh bullpen pitchers who create a name for themselves in MLB. However, the mystique of these great closers lives on, permanently imprinted into baseball lore.</p>



<p>Their efforts have improved bullpen pitching as a whole, and their names will be remembered as benchmarks of skill, grit, and game-winning brilliance for all time. Here are Major League Baseball’s top three closers, the best of the best when it comes to closing out games.</p>



<h2>3. Rollie Fingers</h2>



<p><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/mlb-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-gleyber-torres-in-case-of-yankees-exit-20230420-SPD-3587.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rollie Fingers</a>, the first pitcher in baseball history with 300 career saves, was a trailblazer in the art of finishing games. Fingers was a baseball legend for his unflappable calm on the mound and his signature handlebar mustache. </p>



<p>Fingers was instrumental in helping the 1970s Oakland Athletics win three straight World Series championships as a part of the team’s powerful bullpen. One Most Valuable Player trophy, three Cy Young Awards, and seven All-Star Game appearances are among his many honors.</p>



<h2>2. Trevor Hoffman</h2>



<p>If you’re looking for a reliable and effective relief pitcher, look no further than Trevor Hoffman. Over the course of an amazing 18-year career, Hoffman built up 601 saves, second only to Rivera at the time of his retirement. Hoffman spent the vast majority of his career with the San Diego Padres. </p>



<p>With his devastating changeup, the seven-time All-Star helped make the Padres’ bullpen strength and won the hearts of fans. His place as one of baseball’s all-time great closers was cemented in 2018 when he was finally inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.</p>



<h2>1. Mariano Rivera</h2>



<p>When evaluating the best relievers in Major League Baseball history, Mariano Rivera must inevitably be included. Rivera, often known as “The Sandman,” had 19 great seasons with the New York Yankees. </p>



<p>Using his characteristic cut fastball, Rivera shut out batters and set a record with 652 saves. He was the best relief pitcher in playoff history because of his outstanding performance. Rivera cemented his place in baseball history by winning five championships and setting a record with a lifetime ERA of 2.21.</p>


MLB: All-time top 3 relief pitchers in history

MLB: All-time top 3 relief pitchers in history - thesportsdrops NEWS

miniaturas


<p>The 2023 <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/mlb-top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-gleyber-torres-in-case-of-yankees-exit-20230420-SPD-3587.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB Draft</a> has ushered in a new wave of talented young players to the minor leagues of baseball. Commencing this year’s event, the Pittsburgh Pirates made the opening pick by choosing LSU right-hander Paul Skenes as the No. 1 overall pick. Shortly after, the Washington Nationals made history by selecting his LSU teammate, outfielder Dylan Crews, at No. 2 overall. This marked the first time in draft history that a pair of teammates were chosen consecutively to begin the draft.</p>



<p>As anticipated, the subsequent three picks consisted of a trio of outfielders. Max Clark (Detroit Tigers), <a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/mlb-top-3-most-potent-hitters-over-the-last-decade-20230401-SPD-3544.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wyatt Langford</a> (Texas Rangers), and Walker Jenkins (Minnesota Twins) were long regarded as the remaining top-tier talents from a group of five players.</p>



<p>The most unexpected occurrence in the first round was that, despite a deep pool of high school shortstops with first-round potential, Arjun Nimmala was the first among them to be chosen at No. 20 overall by the Toronto Blue Jays. Conversely, several players from that group, who were anticipated to be first-round selections, slipped past the opening round.</p>



<h2>3. Minnesota Twins</h2>



<p>The Twins were the biggest winners of the first-ever MLB draft lottery, trading up from No. 13 to No. 5 and selecting Walker Jenkins, a high school outfielder with the potential to be a five-tool player. They then selected electric prep right-hander Charlee Soto in the first round of the supplemental draft, offensive second baseman Luke Keaschall of Arizona State in the second round, powerful high school outfielder Brandon Winokur in the third round, and right-handed pitcher Tanner Hall of Southern Mississippi in the fourth round.</p>



<p>The latter has one of the strongest changeups and controls in the Draft. Among the prep ranks, right-hander Dylan Questad is ranked fifth, while left-hander Ross Dunn of Arizona State is ranked tenth, and right-hander Paulshawn Pasqualotto of California is ranked twelfth.</p>



<h2>2. San Francisco Giants</h2>



<p>Before selecting Virginia two-way standout Bryce Eldridge with the 16th overall choice, the Giants seriously evaluated shortstop Walker Martin from Colorado. Joe Whitman of Kent State, the best lefty on the roster according to recent rumors, might be leaving the game before the second inning even begins.</p>



<p>The Giants lost free agent Carlos Rodón, but they still had a chance to get Martin in the middle of the second round and Whitman with their compensatory selection later in the second round. Good picks for the Giants include Auburn shortstop Cole Foster (third round), Maryland catcher Luke Shliger (sixth round), Grayson (Texas) CC right-hander Josh Bostick (eighth round), and Louisville catcher Jack Payton (eleventh round), including slick-fielding Tennessee shortstop Maui Ahuna (fourth round).</p>



<h2>1. Cincinnati Reds</h2>



<p>Both Rhett Lowder of Wake Forest and Ty Floyd of Louisiana State were standouts in the College World Series, and the Reds snagged both in the first round of the Draft.</p>



<p>Then they managed to choose shortstop Sammy Stafura in the second round and outfielder Cole Schoenwetter in the fourth, both of whom were highly regarded prospects coming out of high school. Also joining the Reds are three draft picks: third-rounder Arkansas’s Hunter Hollan, ninth-rounder Lipscomb’s Logan Van Treeck, fifth-rounder Long Beach State’s Connor Burns, and sixth- and eighth-round picks Virginia outfielder Ethan O’Donnell and Stanford first baseman Carter Graham, respectively.</p>


Top 3 winners from 2023 MLB Draft

Top 3 winners from 2023 MLB Draft - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-2022-non-playoff-teams-that-may-surprise-in-2023-20230325-SPD-3525.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Yankees</a></strong> have a plethora of infield options heading into the 2023 Major League Baseball season. There were big hopes for Anthony Volpe after his promotion, and he hasn’t let anybody down.</p>



<p>But the squad must find out how to best use all of its members. DJ LeMahieu, Oswaldo Cabrera, Josh Donaldson, Isiah Kiner-Falefa, DJ LeMahieu, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/mlb-top-3-most-potent-hitters-over-the-last-decade-20230401-SPD-3544.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gleyber Torres</a></strong>, and Oswald Peraza are all in the lineup.</p>



<p>Since the Venezuelan shortstop is the most likely player to be traded, <em>The New York Post</em> suggests three possible destinations for him. Even if they don’t make a move right away, these teams are worth keeping an eye on.</p>



<h2>3. Philadelphia Phillies</h2>



<p>The Phillies’ defense has been bad again this season, so adding Torres may not be the best choice. However, with Rhys Hoskins out for the year, they may need some infield assistance, and Alec Bohm fits the bill.</p>



<p>Once Bohm is replaced by Bryson Stott in third, Gleyber is already familiar with Rob Thomson and Torres might go up to second. The Phillies are looking to improve their team immediately, so we might see them in the market very soon.</p>



<h2>2. Seattle Mariners</h2>



<p>The Seattle Mariners were said to be interested in Torres before they acquired Kolten Wong last year, so it wouldn’t be shocking if they continued to do so this year.</p>



<p>Whether at designated hitter or second base, Torres provides an offensive boost for a club attempting to compete with the Houston Astros in their division. However, the Yankees might benefit greatly from Chris Flexen and his favorable contract terms.</p>



<h2>1. Chicago White Sox</h2>



<p>They should take advantage of playing in what is often considered to be baseball’s worst division by adding talent to an already formidable group.</p>



<p>While the White Sox would welcome someone to play with Elvis Andrus and Romy Gonzalez, the Yankees might try to revive Aaron Bummer’s career. This would be the best-case situation for everyone involved.</p>


MLB: Top 3 most likely destinations for Gleyber Torres in case of Yankees exit

MLB: Top 3 most likely destinations for Gleyber Torres in case of Yankees exit - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>How does one become a star hitter in <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-2022-non-playoff-teams-that-may-surprise-in-2023-20230325-SPD-3525.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major League Baseball</a></strong>? While compiling a list of the top hitters, there are a number of non-tangible factors to consider. </p>



<p>Particularly with the widespread availability of reliable and effective power hitters nowadays. There are too many statistics and measures to collect the best among the best, therefore it’s obvious that we could all put up a list of the top hitters in the world and no one would question our judgment.</p>



<p>Nonetheless, you could be onto something if you dig into the relevant conventional and cutting-edge metrics at more length. Because of this, we have compiled the definitive list of the top three most dominant <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-2022-playoff-teams-that-may-not-make-the-cut-in-2023-20230323-SPD-3519.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB hitters</a></strong> in the last decade.</p>



<h2>3. Jose Altuve</h2>



<p>Due to the cheating controversy involving the Houston Astros, Jose Altuve’s MVP season will always be accompanied by a caveat. Statistics, however, show that he gained nothing from their sign theft.</p>



<p>While Altuve didn’t develop his hitting skills until later in his career, his.315 batting average has made him a terror for opposing pitchers. He has only been a professional player for 8 years, yet he has already earned 5 Silver Sluggers and 3 Batting Championships.</p>



<h2>2. Miguel Cabrera</h2>



<p>Miguel Cabrera’s massive contract with the Detroit Tigers has come under fire due to his history of injury problems. Many seem to have forgotten that he was the last player to ever win the batting triple crown (and the first in 45 years).</p>



<p>In baseball, Cabrera is among the top five batters of all time. His.317 batting average, 268 home runs, 941 RBIs, 153 OPS+, and 936 strikeouts are the greatest of any player during the last decade (14th best). He was named the Most Valuable Player twice and earned five Silver Sluggers this decade before aging and injury derailed his career.</p>



<h2>1. Mike Trout</h2>



<p>There have been genuine discussions on whether or not Trout is already the greatest baseball player of all time, despite the fact that he has only been around since 2011. Even though he doesn’t have the World Series rings to prove it, he has an impressive resume.</p>



<p>He is first in OPS+ (176), third in walks (803), fifth in batting average (.305), first in runs (903), first in slugging percentage (.581), first in OPS (1.000), and first in triples (46). (.305). He has already won the MVP award three times, the Silver Slugger seven times, and the OPS title six times in only nine years. Moreover, since since his sophomore year, he has never finished outside the top five in MVP votes.</p>


MLB: Top 3 most potent hitters over the last decade

MLB: Top 3 most potent hitters over the last decade - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The start of the new baseball season in the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-2022-playoff-teams-that-may-not-make-the-cut-in-2023-20230323-SPD-3519.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB</a></strong> is just around the corner. That means it won’t be long before the sports forecasters start making bold predictions about every aspect of the next season.</p>



<p>The last days of Spring Training have passed, and now all eyes are on Opening Day, the first official game of the 2023 Major League Baseball season. The 162-game regular season will begin as baseball makes its triumphant comeback to our everyday routines.</p>



<p>Although it’s too early to tell how many clubs will be eliminated in the new playoff system, historical data shows that at least three, and usually five will be eliminated from the bracket each season. <em>CBS Sports</em>, however, have picked the three non-playoffs teams they believe have the most chance to pull off a pleasant surprise this year.</p>



<h2>3. Los Angeles Angels</h2>



<p>By keeping Ohtani and Trout on the roster, the Angels hope to be given more leeway than a typical club. This past winter, general manager Perry Minasian spent more time than usual attempting to assemble a solid supporting cast. </p>



<p>This time around, it meant bringing in Tyler Anderson and Carlos Estevez to the bullpen and batting in Hunter Renfroe, Brandon Drury, and Gio Urshela at first base.</p>



<h2>2. Milwaukee Brewers</h2>



<p>Despite Stearns’s suggestion, the Brewers did not go back to the drawing board. Willy Adames, Brandon Woodruff, and Corbin Burnes all made the team’s starting lineup. Even though they traded two of last year’s most effective hitters, Hunter Renfroe and Kolten Wong, the team is hoping that newcomers Jesse Winker and William Contreras can make up the difference.</p>



<p>The Brewers have some room for improvement on the team itself. Milwaukee might call up many promising outfielders, including former first-round selection Sal Frelick and top-five prospect Jackson Chourio, during the course of the season. Brice Turang and Garrett Mitchell are expected to make the team out of spring training.</p>



<h2>1. Minnesota Twins</h2>



<p>After an impressive first season with the Twins in which he led the team in OPS+, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-and-the-most-shocking-mlb-trades-in-this-offseason-20221223-SPD-3278.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carlos Correa</a></strong> has returned to the team. The addition of Pablo Lopez, along with healthy seasons from trade deadline addition Tyler Mahle and returning starter Kenta Maeda, should help a staff that finished 19th in ERA last season. </p>



<p>When it comes to injuries, it’s reasonable to expect a return to the norm for those clubs who were unusually fortunate in that category. There’s a wide margin of error between having a completely healthy season and losing the second-most days on the injured list last year.</p>


Top 3 MLB 2022 non-playoff teams that may surprise in 2023

Top 3 MLB 2022 non-playoff teams that may surprise in 2023 - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/mlb-top-3-teams-under-most-pressure-to-win-2023-world-series-20230319-SPD-3514.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 MLB season</a></strong> is almost approaching, which means the postseason race has already begun. From February’s spring training sessions all the way through October’s World Series games, the teams are at war.</p>



<p>Every fan’s attention will soon shift from the last days of Spring Training to Opening Day, the first official game of the 2023 MLB season. Baseball’s return to our daily schedules will mark the start of the 162-game regular season.</p>



<p>As the new playoff structure is still in its infancy, generalizations regarding the yearly turnover rate cannot be made. Nonetheless, historical data suggests that at least three teams and usually five teams will be eliminated from the bracket each season. <em>CBS Sports</em>&nbsp;have ranked the top three teams that could fail to repeat the success.</p>



<h2>3. St. Louis Cardinals</h2>



<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-4-possible-2023-24-mlb-season-free-agents-20230115-SPD-3328.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardinals</a></strong> strengthened their roster most by adding catcher Willson Contreras, who, let’s be honest, doesn’t have the same defensive reputation as Yadier Molina. It might have a domino effect on the rest of St. Louis’ pitching staff, especially the rotation, which is already precarious due to Adam Wainwright’s diminished velocity and Jack Flaherty’s physical volatility. </p>



<p>They won’t be able to bulk up by beating up on the weaker teams in the NL Central because of their well-matched schedule.</p>



<h2>2. Cleveland Guardians</h2>



<p>The Guardians’ success was largely predicated on the performance of younger or less-established players who surprised by doing better than expected. The issue that matters most for Cleveland is whether or if Steven Kwan, Oscar Gonzalez, Andrés Giménez, and the rest of the team can replicate their previous successes.</p>



<p>The Guardians spent big on first baseman Josh Bell and are hoping for a comeback season from catcher Mike Zunino in order to provide stability for their youthful core. Each has shown a degree of unpredictability, thus the results they produce remain to be seen.</p>



<h2>1. Tampa Bay Rays</h2>



<p>The Rays’ management has shown interest in acquiring hitting talent this summer after the team finished in the bottom 10 in runs scored and in the middle of the pack in wRC+. After that, they didn’t bring in any new hitters from the outside, so any changes will have to come from the inside.</p>



<p>Tyler Glasnow is already out with an injury, while other important players like Wander Franco and Zach Eflin have faced durability issues of their own. Runs may be hard to come by once again in St. Petersburg, but Tampa Bay has some potential young players on the way, including infielder Curtis Mead and righty Taj Bradley.</p>


Top 3 MLB 2022 playoff teams that may not make the cut in 2023

Top 3 MLB 2022 playoff teams that may not make the cut in 2023 - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-4-possible-2023-24-mlb-season-free-agents-20230115-SPD-3328.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 regular season</a></strong> of Major League Baseball will begin soon. There’s nothing quite like a baseball game in the spring, but the novelty wears off soon and everyone is ready for some real Major League Baseball. This season, several familiar names are playing for different teams than usual.</p>



<p>Every MLB team in 2023 will have its own unique set of challenges. You can’t put a number on pressure, but you can recognize it when you see it, and you certainly recognize it when you feel it. As a result, some teams play under intense pressure to succeed. </p>



<p>Many others are under intense pressure to accelerate the recovery process. And some squads face an altogether different type of strain. Considering that the 2023 campaign is just around the corner, <em>CBS Sports</em> have ranked the top three teams in terms of how much pressure they are under to win the World Series this year.</p>



<h2>3. New York Yankees</h2>



<p>Having just signed <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-aaron-judge-and-top-10-largest-mlb-contracts-of-all-time-20221214-SPD-3255.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aaron Judge</a> </strong>to a massive nine-year deal, along with Gerrit Cole and valued free agency signing Carlos Rodón, it’s safe to say that the Yankees are back. The pressure to win the World Series is always quite high.</p>



<p>At this point in their lives, Cole, Judge, and Rodon are all in their 30s, as is Giancarlo Stanton. There are only a certain number of peak years left for this core. The Yankees didn’t offer Judge a multi-year deal without serious plans to compete for a championship.</p>



<h2>2. San Diego Padres</h2>



<p>The Padres’ success demonstrates that the “small market” is more than just a geographic location. The roster is stacked with players, and San Diego has the third-highest competitive balance tax payroll in the league at $275 million. With this new deal, Xander Bogaerts is locked in for the next 11 years. </p>



<p>The 11-year contract that Manny Machado just signed is a huge deal. After enduring an injury and a ban for using performance-enhancing drugs, Fernando Tatis Jr. is making a comeback. Also, they have Juan Soto, who is perhaps the finest player on the team.</p>



<h2>1. New York Mets</h2>



<p>It is reasonable to assume that the Mets, with the greatest payroll in baseball history (roughly $475 million in payroll and competitive balance tax in 2023), will eventually win a World Series. </p>



<p>A good season would include more than 105 wins, the NL East crown, and a loss in seven games of the NL Championship Series. Owner Steve Cohen has allocated resources in pursuit of a title. Players, coaches, and executives now have the responsibility of delivering.</p>


MLB: Top 3 teams under most pressure to win 2023 World Series

MLB: Top 3 teams under most pressure to win 2023 World Series - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>On Wednesday, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/red-sox-top-4-replacements-for-trevor-story-after-elbow-surgery-20230113-SPD-3324.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Red Sox</a></strong> and Rafael Devers agreed to an 11-year agreement, making Devers the latest outstanding player to stay with the team after the departures of Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts. As Devers was already on the team, the Red Sox didn’t have to make any moves to accommodate his new contract, but it does have an immediate impact on the following winter free-agency market.</p>



<p>Devers might have finished the season with the Red Sox and then been one of the top two or three players available next winter if he had stayed with them. Instead, the independent workforce will have fewer resources available to them. But it doesn’t imply just minor players will be available in the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-extension-candidates-20230108-SPD-3314.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023-24 season</a></strong>.</p>



<p>To that end, <em>CBS Sports</em> have make an early attempt at rating the top players who are anticipated to be free in around nine months. Take a look at the four possible players that could be available to get for free in 2023-24.</p>



<h2>4. Aaron Nola</h2>



<p>Due to a lackluster 2021 season, Nola’s numbers aren’t very impressive. In spite of this, he is a proven workhorse with three Cy Young Award top-five finishes to his name. Whether it’s with the Phillies or another team, Nola will likely be offered a lucrative long-term contract.</p>



<h2>3. Julio Urias</h2>



<p>After pitching at least 300 innings throughout the Pandemic Era, Urias will approach his walk year with the fourth-best ERA+ in that group. The fact that he will still be relatively young at 27, the fact that he throws with his left hand, and the fact that the Dodgers have lots of financial freedom moving into the new year all appear to point toward his getting a lucrative contract.</p>



<h2>2. Manny Machado</h2>



<p>After the current season, Machado can exercise his contract’s opt-out and walk away from $160 million over the remaining five years. By then, he will be 31 years old and likely fresh off a stretch that had him nominated for the Most Valuable Player Award four times in a row. </p>



<p>Although unusual outcomes with opt-out calls are possible, it is believed Machado would be able to enhance his total payout or surpass his average yearly value by signing one of the recently popular super long-term agreements. If he finds that he like life in San Diego too much to leave, then that’s OK.</p>



<h2>1. Shohei Ohtani</h2>



<p>Ohtani is a once-in-a-generation talent who will earn a once-in-a-generation salary. Hehas made it clear that he wants to help the Angels win a World Series, but that seems unlikely. If and when he becomes available, other teams, including the Dodgers and Mets, are likely to aggressively pursue him. That means Ohtani won’t have to choose winning above financial success.</p>


Top 4 possible 2023-24 MLB season free agents

Top 4 possible 2023-24 MLB season free agents - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-extension-candidates-20230108-SPD-3314.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Red Sox</a></strong> have had a rough offseason so far, and on Tuesday they learned that shortstop Trevor Story would miss a large portion of the 2023 season due to elbow surgery. After Xander Bogaerts left, the expectation was that Story, who started at second base last season, would go over to shortstop.</p>



<p>Things couldn’t go much worse for the Red Sox at this time. There were a ton of good shortstops available this winter, but as of Tuesday night, they were all signed. This leaves Boston’s senior baseball executive, Chaim Bloom, with a lot of work to do in the coming weeks since the Red Sox plan to use Enrique Hernandez and Christian Arroyo in the middle infield.</p>



<p>Bloom and the Red Sox need a shortstop, but they don’t know where to go or who to ask. Check out the top four emergency options for the Red Sox, as per <em>CBS Sports</em>.</p>



<h2>4. Jose Iglesias</h2>



<p>Iglesias, alongside Andrus, is the top remaining free agent possibility is Jose Iglesias. He’s been with the Red Sox twice, both times as a second baseman by the end of the 2021 season. At this stage of his career, he should definitely stick to that side of the bag, but the Red Sox can’t afford to be greedy right now.</p>



<h2>3. Taylor Wall</h2>



<p>Wall is a switch-hitter who, in over 200 games in the majors, has produced dreadful offensive stats. Fortunately, his defensive play relies on it. While public metrics like Defensive Runs Saved give him high marks, Statcast’s Outs Above Average give him low marks.</p>



<h2>2. Joey Wendle</h2>



<p>The Red Sox have reportedly shown interest in Wendle and Miguel Rojas, who both play for the Marlins. Despite Wendle’s below-average hitting performance in his debut year with the Marlins, he had posted above-average numbers in each of the two prior campaigns. Moreover, his defensive adaptability would allow him to remain in Boston’s rotation even after Story’s late summer comeback.</p>



<h2>1. Elvis Andrus</h2>



<p>The Red Sox would be wise to pursue <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-and-the-most-shocking-mlb-trades-in-this-offseason-20221223-SPD-3278.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrus</a></strong>. The 34-year-old has shown no signs of improving his offensive production in the past, therefore it’s quite improbable that he will do so in the future. However, he has lived up to his reputation as a solid defender, and signing him to a one-year contract wouldn’t mean the Red Sox passed up on total-package shortstops.</p>


Red Sox: Top 4 replacements for Trevor Story after elbow surgery

Red Sox: Top 4 replacements for Trevor Story after elbow surgery - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-and-the-most-shocking-mlb-trades-in-this-offseason-20221223-SPD-3278.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB</a></strong> season will soon reach a critical deadline: Teams and their arbitration-eligible players have until Friday, January 13 to submit pay numbers for 2023. This isn’t the most exciting deadline in terms of the hot stove, but it is serious business since the great majority of players will have signed contracts for 2023 by then. </p>



<p>The unofficial beginning of extension season is marked by the filing deadline. One such deal was completed this month when <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-aaron-judge-and-top-10-largest-mlb-contracts-of-all-time-20221214-SPD-3255.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rafael Devers</a></strong> and the Red Sox agreed to a hefty 11-year, $331 million contract to keep him from becoming a free agent following the season.</p>



<p>Despite the exceptional circumstances caused by the lockout, a number of players, including Emmanuel Clase, Ke’Bryan Hayes, Ryan McMahon, and Matt Olson, signed long-term extensions between the conclusion of the lockout and the start of the season. Even though Devers’ deal was the first of the year, other massive contracts will almost definitely be signed before the 2023 season starts.&nbsp;Check out the top three MLB players who could get long-term deals.</p>



<h2>3. Brandon Woodruff</h2>



<p>Although the Brewers have a number of contract contenders, including Willy Adames and Corbin Burnes, Woodruff seems to be the most likely to sign a long-term agreement that is within the team’s budget constraints. It’s safe to assume that Adames is salivating over the shortstop contracts that were signed this offseason, and Burnes has roughly two years on Woodruff in age. </p>



<p>Since 2015, Milwaukee’s Opening Day payroll has never been better than the 17th, therefore the team must carefully use their resources. Of course, Woodruff is terrific, and the Brewers wouldn’t settle for less even if he has a better chance of signing a cheap long-term deal than Adames or Burnes.</p>



<h2>2. Logan Webb</h2>



<p>One option for the San Francisco Giants to fix things is to extend the contract of the popular domestic star, Logan Webb. Certainly not all, but a few. Webb is a local person who grew up just about two hours outside of the Bay Area, and negotiations for a contract have already started.</p>



<p>With just Mitch Haniger signed until 2025, the Giants have relatively little long-term payroll commitment, giving them a lot of flexibility. They have enough cap space to re-sign Webb and make another go at major free players in the summer after failing to get any of the big fish this time around. Webb is, bar none, the greatest player on the club, so signing him to a long-term deal is smart business.</p>



<h2>1. Kyle Tucker</h2>



<p>Though not every player on the team receives an extension (recent free agents Gerrit Cole, Carlos Correa, and George Springer are examples), the Astros make sure to keep hold of their most valuable assets. Long-term contracts have recently been given to players like Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, and Lance McCullers Jr. Yordan Alvarez inked a six-year, $115 million contract in June of last year. Three years from now in 2023, Tucker will be eligible for free agency, and by that time he is expected to have made close to $6 million.</p>


Top 3 MLB extension candidates

Top 3 MLB extension candidates - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>They may say the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/lebron-james-and-other-nba-greats-who-could-have-had-successful-nfl-careers-20221221-SPD-3274.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong> is where the unbelievable occurs, but the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/aaron-judge-and-other-top-3-potential-mlb-free-agents-20221113-SPD-3150.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB</a></strong> isn’t too far behind. There are often surprising transactions and overseas signings throughout the offseason.</p>



<p>Even this year didn’t break that pattern. You never know what’s going to happen in this league, what with the New York Mets signing Kodai Senga to a large contract and Cody Bellinger earning MVP-kind of money.</p>



<p>Even more so with Carlos Correa’s impromptu transfer to Queens at the last minute, this offseason has all the makings of being one of the wildest in recent memory. Given this, let’s examine the three deals that shocked people the most.</p>



<h2>3. Xander Bogaerts</h2>



<p>While it was not unexpected for Xander Bogaerts to have significant interest from many organizations, the fact that he signed with the San Diego Padres was stunning.</p>



<p>Spending large money on superstars is a clear step in the right way as the Padres aim to construct a contender. However, one has to consider whether this is really the best arrangement for both people involved.</p>



<h2>2. Jacob deGrom</h2>



<p>Generally speaking, opinions on Jacob deGrom were divided. The Mets had the support of 50 percent of those polled, while the Braves had the support of percent. So, it came as a surprise when the Texas Rangers came out of nowhere to sign the finest pitcher in baseball to a massive contract.</p>



<h2>1. Carlos Correa</h2>



<p>It was planned that the San Francisco Giants will formally welcome <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-aaron-judge-and-top-10-largest-mlb-contracts-of-all-time-20221214-SPD-3255.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carlos Correa</a></strong> to the team on Tuesday morning. Instead, he will join the New York Mets.</p>



<p>Correa’s 13-year, $350 million agreement with San Francisco fell through when a medical concern was discovered during his physical, which was discovered only hours before his planned introduction news conference in San Francisco. According to reports, the Mets came in during the night and agreed to a 12-year, $315 million contract with Correa.</p>


Carlos Correa and the most shocking MLB trades in this offseason

Carlos Correa and the most shocking MLB trades in this offseason - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Last Monday, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/aaron-judge-and-other-top-3-potential-mlb-free-agents-20221113-SPD-3150.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aaron Judge</a>,</strong> who is now holding the title of Most Valuable Player in the American League, re-signed with the New York Yankees after reaching an agreement on a nine-year deal for $360 million. According to reports, the San Francisco Giants and the San Diego Padres made a late effort at signing Judge, but he ultimately decided to sign with the New York Yankees. However, the significant offseason expenditure in baseball was not finished.</p>



<p>The talented shortstop <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/nolan-arenado-to-stay-at-cardinals-after-declining-to-exercise-opt-out-clause-20221029-SPD-3063.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carlos Correa</a></strong> agreed to a contract with the Giants this week that is worth $350 million over 13 years. Both Judge and Correa now hold spots in the top five of the all-time list of the largest contracts in Major League Baseball history. The position players’ market now has a new standard to measure up to thanks to Judge’s average yearly worth of $40 million. </p>



<p>This record had previously been held by Mike Trout, who had earned $35.54 million throughout his career. Although Judge’s average annual value (AAV) did not surpass that of Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander of the New York Mets, who both have an AAV of $43.3 million annually, he still has enough to celebrate.</p>



<p>After all, this development follows in the footsteps of his decision, made just before the start of the season, to turn down a seven-year deal with an approximate value of $213 million. Although Correa’s 13-year deal does not have a significant average annual value (AAV), it still ranks fourth all-time in terms of guaranteed money.</p>



<p>According to <em>Cot’s Contracts</em>, the following are the top 10 costliest contracts in the history of MLB in terms of overall value, as well as the top 5 richest contracts in terms of average yearly value. It is important to point out that four of the five contracts were signed in either the previous or the most recent offseason. In point of fact, Verlander, deGrom, and Judge all put pen to paper during this month. </p>



<p>The huge contract that Judge just signed after an unprecedented campaign for the team. As a result of his 62 home runs, he set new marks for the American League and the Yankees in terms of the most home runs hit in a single season. Both of these records had previously been held by Roger Maris, who set the previous mark in 1961 by hitting 61 home runs.</p>



<h2>Largest contracts (total money) in MLB history</h2>



<ol><li>Mike Trout, Angels: $426.5 million (2019-30)</li><li>Mookie Betts, Dodgers: $365 million (2021-32)</li><li>Aaron Judge, Yankees: $360 million (2023-31)</li><li>Carlos Correa, Giants: $350 million (2023-2035)</li><li>Francisco Lindor, Mets: $341 million (2022-31)</li><li>Fernando Tatis, Padres: $340 million (2021-34)</li><li>Bryce Harper, Phillies: $330 million (2019-2031)</li><li>Giancarlo Stanton, Marlins/Yankees: $325 million (2015-2027)</li><li>Corey Seager, Rangers: $325 million (2022-31)</li><li>Gerrit Cole, Yankees: $324 million (2020-28)</li></ol>



<h2>Highest average annual value (AAV) in MLB history</h2>



<ol><li>Max Scherzer, Mets: $43.33 million (2022-24)</li><li>Justin Verlander, Mets: $43.33 million (2023-24)</li><li>Aaron Judge, Yankees: $40 million (2023-31)</li><li>Jacob deGrom, Rangers: $37 million (2023-27)</li><li>Gerrit Cole, Yankees: $36 million (2020-28)</li></ol>


Carlos Correa, Aaron Judge and top 10 largest MLB contracts of all time

Carlos Correa, Aaron Judge and top 10 largest MLB contracts of all time - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>The conclusion of the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/nolan-arenado-to-stay-at-cardinals-after-declining-to-exercise-opt-out-clause-20221029-SPD-3063.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Series</a> </strong>signals a shift in attention to the future, and more particularly, the 2022 class of <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/aaron-boone-slated-to-continue-as-yankeess-manager-in-2023-20221027-SPD-3047.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major League Baseball</a></strong> free agents. At 5:00 PM (ET) on Thursday, the free agency market officially began, allowing players to seek the greatest possible compensation for their services.</p>



<p>C<em>BS Sports</em>, as usual, have rated the best free agents of the class based on our assessments and forecasts of the market. A mix of projected Annual Average Value and anticipated effect is used to determine placement.</p>



<p>Each player also has a limited number of possible landing teams. Since last Sunday’s conclusion of the World Series, six free agents have signed contracts with big league teams; four of them are relievers.</p>



<h2>3. Carlos Correa</h2>



<p>In April, Correa only hit one home run, contributing to a dreadful stat line that followed him into the summer and made it seem as if he was having a bad season overall, despite the fact that his performance had improved significantly by that point. In other words, he is still a top-tier player, and it wouldn’t be shocking if he finally got the contract he deserved. The Dodgers, Cubs, and Twins are some of his landing destinations as per <em>CBS.</em></p>



<h2>2. Jacob deGrom</h2>



<p>Since making his debut in 2014, of course, he has been one of the best pitchers in the league, earning himself two Cy Young Awards and four selections to the All-Star Game. DeGrom is a half-year away from turning 35, but injuries have restricted his career to only 26 starts over the last two seasons. Generally speaking, pitchers’ health declines as they get older.</p>



<p>Eventually, a team will shell out the cash to give themselves a shot at adding a true ace to their rotation, but if deGrom’s body continues to refuse to cooperate, that team may come to regret their investment. Such examples are the Mets, Rangers, and Giants, as per <em>CBS.</em></p>



<h2>1. Aaron Judge</h2>



<p>He has a high batting average, walks often, hits for power (interesting fact: he set a new American League record for home runs in a season), and has one of the best-throwing arms in the outfield. To further demonstrate his shape, the Yankees played him in center field for the majority of the season.</p>



<p>The criticisms were leveled against Judge in the spring when he turned down a seven-year agreement for $213.5 million. Among his possible new destinations,<em> CBS</em> see the Yankees, Giants, and Dodgers.</p>


Aaron Judge and other top 3 MLB free agents and their potential destinations

Aaron Judge and other top 3 MLB free agents and their potential destinations - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p><em>The Athletic</em> reports that <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/terry-francona-to-lead-guardians-as-manager-once-again-in-2023-20221021-SPD-3015.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">St. Louis Cardinals</a></strong> third baseman <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/aaron-boone-slated-to-continue-as-yankeess-manager-in-2023-20221027-SPD-3047.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nolan Arenado</a></strong> has notified the organization that he would not be exercising his opt-out option this summer. Five more years and $144 million are still on the horizon for the seven-time All-Star. While he had the option to explore other teams and contracts, he has decided to stay in St. Louis.</p>



<p>John Mozeliak, the Cardinals’ vice president of baseball operations, recently told <em>MLB.com:</em> “I would just say that I’m optimistic that this will have a positive resolution, and like I said, I hope that’s something we get some news on sooner rather than later. I don’t think it’s about re-working the deal. He’s just trying to use his time and sort through some things.</p>



<p>“He asked questions on how we’re thinking about the club, what we’re thinking about in the future, and topics like, ‘How are we going to deploy our resources?’ It was a very positive conversation. Again, I’m hopeful and optimistic that we can come to a place where we’re both very happy and have that understanding. He just wants a little time to think through that.”</p>



<h2>Nolan Arenado to see out his contract with Cardinals</h2>



<p>Arenado had one of his best seasons ever in his second year with the St. Louis Cardinals, batting.293 with 30 home runs, 103 RBIs, and a career-low strikeout rate. Last year, he led all position players in the National League with a 7.9 WAR.</p>



<p>After being moved to St. Louis from Colorado in advance of the 2021 season, Arenado was eligible to exercise his second and final opt-out clause. Throughout 2022, the Cardinals maintained confidence that the seven-time All-Star would return to St. Louis.</p>


Nolan Arenado to stay at Cardinals after declining to exercise opt out clause

Nolan Arenado to stay at Cardinals after declining to exercise opt out clause - thesportsdrops NEWS


<p>Despite playing in MLB’s strongest division in 2022, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/mlb-news-padres-owners-opens-up-on-fernando-tatis-jr-340m-contract-extension-2628-20220830-SPD-2628.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New York Yankees</a></strong> still managed to win 99 games and the American League East. After beating the Cleveland Guardians in a thrilling five-game American League Division Series, Boone and the Yankees were swept by the Houston Astros in the American League Championship Series.</p>



<p>After the season ended in failure, fans vented their anger in public, and some of it was aimed at <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/terry-francona-to-lead-guardians-as-manager-once-again-in-2023-20221021-SPD-3015.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aaron Boone</a></strong>. Steinbrenner may have given himself a little bit of wiggle room by saying “don’t see a change there,” but his words still clearly suggest Boone will be back in the Yankee dugout.</p>



<p>According to Hal Steinbrenner, the New York Yankees owner, the 49-year-old is expected to remain a manager in 2023 for his sixth season, despite significant conjecture to the contrary.</p>



<h2>Aaron Boone to keep his job at Yankees</h2>



<p><em>“As far as Boone’s concerned, we just signed him and for all the same reasons I listed a year ago, I believe he is a very good manager. I don’t see a change there,”</em> Steinbrenner told Mark Didtler of the <em>Associated Press.</em></p>



<p>Boone’s contract is for three years, starting in October 2021, with the fourth year being a club option in 2025. After five years in charge, Boone leads the Yankees at 427-281 (.603) with two division victories and playoff appearances each year. However, the Yankees have gone 14-17 under Boone in the playoffs and have never made it through the ALCS in his tenure.</p>


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