Tag: mlb

MLB Preview

By: Carson Wilsey

For baseball fans worldwide, the 2025 MLB season is looking to be an exciting year. There is a lot of excitement surrounding the new roster additions, trades, and intriguing prospects making their big league debuts as teams prepare for the upcoming season. In order to improve their offensive, add depth to their defensive groups, and boost their pitching rotations, teams made a number of high-profile offseason additions. The return of several of the league’s most dynamic players from injury, including great pitchers and power hitters, is one of the most exciting parts of the 2025 season. These players will be hoping to recover and reclaim their position as important contributors to their teams’ success. 

The postseason race will likely be intense as usual. Teams with established stars and deep rosters, such as the Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves, continue to be the league favorites. Nonetheless, a number of up-and-coming teams, such as the Seattle Mariners and Baltimore Orioles, are hoping to advance and make a strong playoff run. Because more clubs will be able to compete for a position in October due to enlarged playoffs, the regular season is even more important. The division races will be fierce, particularly since some divisions appear to be as close as ever and a few significant victories could mean the difference between a wild card and a division title.

Beyond the team conflicts, the season’s plots will also heavily rely on individual players. There is always fierce competition for the MVP and Cy Young awards, and 2025 looks to be no exception. While seasoned veterans like Mike Trout and Mookie Betts are always a threat to regain the spotlight, young talents like Shohei Ohtani, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Julio Rodríguez will continue to dominate headlines. As the MLB continues to enact rule changes intended to quicken play and produce a more thrilling brand of baseball, the game’s evolution will also be important this season. With anything from new hitting approaches to altering laws, fans can expect lots of shocks during the season.

How Crucial is Ohtani to the Dodgers Success this Year?

By: Henry Jones

The Los Angeles Dodgers enter the 2025 MLB season with high expectations following their 2024 World Series championship. Analysts project the Dodgers to achieve a remarkable 104.5 wins, the highest preseason win total since at least 1990. The Dodgers also made many off season pick ups by adding Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki to their bullpen. Sensational player Shohei Ohtani is also coming back from arm injury and will be able to pitch this year. The Dodgers’ lineup remains formidable, featuring stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Teoscar Hernández. The addition of Hyeseong Kim from the KBO adds depth to the infield. The Dodgers are heavily favored to repeat as World Series champions, with odds of +250, reflecting their strong roster and successful offseason. While the Dodgers’ roster is exceptionally strong, the unpredictable nature of baseball means that success is never guaranteed. However, the combination of a deep roster, strategic acquisitions, and high expectations positions the Dodgers as strong contenders for the 2025 season. Also, Shohei is projected to win the National League MVP. This is not a shocker to most people due to his ability to make big plays at the plate and be a reliable starting pitcher. Assuming he stays healthy (a big factor for any prediction), Ohtani’s two-way success will continue to set him apart from the rest of the league. There could be some load management for his pitching, especially given his dual role, but as he continues to push boundaries, the Dodgers may work with him to ensure his longevity while still maximizing his impact both at the plate and on the mound. Also, his hitting will probably maintain his offensive production at an elite level. After a strong 2024 season, he will continue to be a powerful presence in the lineup, hitting over 40 home runs and driving in around 100 RBIs. His batting average could hover around .270-.280, with his on-base and slugging percentages remaining among the best in the league. Expect him to also be a consistent threat on the base paths, stealing around 10-15 bases. While some people say the Dodgers already have enough stars to win it without Ohtani, I believe he is such a generational player that they just couldn’t achieve greatness without him.

Atlanta Braves 2025 Preview

By: Benson Elmore

The Atlanta Braves are getting ready for the 2025 MLB season, and there’s a lot of excitement around the team. Last year, the Braves finished with a decent 89–73 record and made the playoffs as a Wild Card team. But they got knocked out right away by the San Diego Padres, which was a huge letdown. This year, they’re hoping to bounce back and go further in the playoffs.

The Braves made a few changes over the offseason. They lost some important players like Max Fried, Charlie Morton, A.J. Minter, and Travis d’Arnaud, who all signed with different teams. In return, they traded for pitcher Griffin Canning from the Los Angeles Angels. Canning had a rough 2024 season, but the Braves are hoping he can help their pitching staff. They also signed outfielder Jurickson Profar to a three-year deal. Profar had a solid year in 2024, and he should add some extra depth to the Braves’ lineup.

A big part of the Braves’ 2025 season will be getting some of their star players back from injury. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider both missed time last season because of injuries, but they’re expected to be healthy this year. Having them back should be a huge boost for the team, especially for the offense and the pitching staff.

The Braves also have some cool events lined up this season. One of the biggest ones is the MLB Speedway Classic on August 2, where they’ll play the Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee. It’s going to be the first-ever regular-season MLB game in Tennessee, and it’s expected to draw a huge crowd. On top of that, the Braves will host the 2025 MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park in Atlanta on July 15. It’s going to be the third time the city has hosted the All-Star Game, with the last two being in 1972 and 2000.

Looking ahead, the Braves are expected to be one of the top teams in the National League East. Even though they didn’t make a ton of moves over the offseason, a lot of people think the team will improve in 2025. With their key players back and some new additions, the Braves should be in the mix for the division title. If they can stay healthy and play well, they could definitely make a deep playoff run this year.

Why baseball is the hardest sport to go pro in

By: Benson Elmore

When you think of the hardest sport to go pro in, you might think of football, basketball, soccer, etc. In reality, the hardest sport to go pro in and be successful in is baseball. Baseball has many levels where you have to be very good to even make it to the next one. First you have to go through the Rookie leagues, which is where most rookies start out. Next you are sent through  A, AA, and AAA, with each one being tougher than the last.These leagues also have MLB veterans that are recovering from injuries dominating, making your climb up the leagues even harder. It’s hard to move up because the competition is tough, and only a few players make it to the MLB. Many players spend years working their way up, dealing with injuries and pressure, and even then, it’s not guaranteed they’ll get called up. Making it to the big leagues is a long and tough road. There are many MLB prospects that do not live up to the hype, and eventually get forgotten about. Also, many people give up playing baseball professionally, because the pay that minor league players get is not liveable. There have been many times where players are working other jobs along with playing baseball. Also, there have been some players that have spoken on their experience in the minor leagues, where they speak about living in their car, due to the underwhelming pay. In other sports, like football, you are drafted, then sent to the league. I am not saying that it is not tough to get sent up from the practice squad, but it for sure is not half as hard as working up the farm system in the MLB. I feel the same way about basketball. These guys have to work their way up from the G-League or overseas, but the routes are pretty straight forward. In the MLB, you have to work so hard, just to get sent up and down and back and forth. There are so many draft picks that are super hyped up in the draft, and are lost in the minor leagues and never heard from again. Usually in the NFL, those huge draft busts are usually at least seen in games with the actual team, unlike many draft picks in the MLB. That is one of the reasons there are so many draft picks in the MLB compared to other sports. Also, the roster size is so much smaller than a football team for example. That is why I think that baseball is the harder sport to go pro in in today’s world.

Why Aaron Judge does not deserve the hate he received from this postseason

By: Benson Elmore

Aaron Judge was coming off of a phenomenal regular season with a Yankees team who won 94 games, which ranked first in the AL East. But as soon as the postseason began, Judge went into a terrible slump, batting .184 in the whole postseason with nine hits in forty-nine at bats. Though Judge did not have a great postseason, he does not deserve half the hate from anyone, including the Yankees fans who began booing the legend during a game. Here are a few reasons why Aaron Judge does not deserve this outrageous hate

His Exceptional Regular Season

Aaron Judge had an outstanding regular season, showcasing his incredible talent on the field. He led the league in home runs, setting him apart as one of the supreme batters in baseball. Judge consistently delivered clutch performances, contributing significantly to his team’s success with key hits and lockdown defense. His combination of athleticism, determination, and leadership solidified his status as a fan favorite and a legend of the franchise, making the season one to remember for both him and the fans. A player who leads the league in home runs for the season does not deserve all of this hate.

His huge leadership role

Aaron Judge has emerged as a very important leader for his team, embodying the qualities of a true captain both on and off the field. His work ethic and commitment set a high standard for his teammates, inspiring them to improve their own performance. Judge’s calm clutchness in high-pressure situations and his ability to rally the team during tough moments have created a strong sense of brotherhood and leadership. Additionally, he is always willing to mentor younger players, sharing his insights and experiences to help them grow. His leadership not only contributes to the team’s success but also keeps a positive and competitive atmosphere within the clubhouse.

He was not the only player who performed poorly this postseason

During the postseason, Aaron Judge wasn’t alone in facing struggles. Several other Yankees players also ran into difficulties. Giancarlo Stanton, who had been a key power hitter, struggled to find his rhythm at the plate, contributing to the team’s lack of production. Gleyber Torres had moments of potential but often crumbled under pressure, leaving runners stranded in critical situations. Additionally, the pitching staff did not do great, with key pitchers failing to deliver in must-win games. These collective struggles just made the challenges the team faced worst as they fought in the World Series, highlighting that Judge’s performance was not the only player that sucked this postseason for the Yankees.

It’s baseball

When you play a sport where you get millions to hit about .240, you cannot expect production 100% of the time. None of these players deserve half of the hate they are getting because of how good the pitchers were this postseason. At the end of the day, it is just baseball

The Magic of a Subway Series in the World Series

By: Benson Elmore

Imagine the excitement: two New York teams, the Yankees and the Mets, battling it out in the World Series. A Subway Series, where the stakes are as high as the Empire State Building and the rivalry is unmatched, would not only captivate the city but the entire baseball world.

The Rivalry

The history between the Yankees and the Mets is great. With the Yankees boasting a record 27 World Series championships and the Mets holding their own with two titles, the two teams are amazing groups that used to be very common common competitors in the playoffs. A World Series matchup would reignite this rivalry, drawing fans from both sides crazy, making New York become an amazing and competitive location for many years to come. The stakes would be higher than ever, as bragging rights for New York supremacy would be in the winners hand.

The Atmosphere

Picture the atmosphere in the city: fans wearing their team colors, gathering at bars and apartments, united in their love for baseball, yet split by their favorite hometown team. The subway cars would be filled with fans, as chants and cheers echo through the tunnels. Game days would transform the city into a vibrant sea of pinstripes and orange-and-blue, turning every street corner into a great representation of the sport.

The Impact on Baseball

A Subway Series wouldn’t just be a local spectacle; it would have a significant impact on the sport as a whole. The ratings would soar, drawing in casual viewers and lighting the flame of interest back into baseball. The exposure would highlight the talent in both organizations, shining a light on the players and strategies that define the game today.

Conclusion

A Subway Series in the World Series would be a dream come true for baseball fans and a thrilling chapter in New York’s sports history. It would combine intense competition, juicy history, and an electrifying atmosphere, making it one of the most memorable moments in the game. As we dream of the day this rivalry takes center stage, one thing is clear: the magic of a Subway Series would be unmatched.

Why the Royals Can and will Surprise Everyone and Win the World Series

By: Benson Elmore

As the baseball season heats up, fans are buzzing about who’s going to win the pennant this year. The Kansas City Royals might not be the first name that comes to mind, but there’s a case to be made for why this underrated team could surprise haters and doubters and make a deep playoff run and win it all. Here’s why the Royals will come out as the champs in the 2024 World Series.

 Young Talent

The Royals have been building a solid roster of young prospects who are starting to hit their stride. With a mix of promising prospects and emerging youngsters, this team has grown exponentially as the season progressed. Players like Bobby Witt Jr. and MJ Melendez are not just future stars; they are the stars as of right now, providing a glimpse of the power the Royals can unleash in the postseason.

 Versatile Pitching Staff

Success in the playoffs often relies a lot on pitching, and the Royals have been quietly assembling a staff that can compete with the best. With a combination of reliable starters and a bullpen that can keep them winning, Kansas City has the pitching depth necessary to navigate any playoff series. If their pitchers can harness their potential and deliver under pressure, they could be the backbone of a championship run.

Chemistry

One of the biggest factors of championship teams is their ability to not crumble under pressure. The Royals have a strong clubhouse culture built on what I like to call the power of friendship. Having weathered challenges throughout the season, this team knows how to fight back when the odds are stacked against them. Such a mentality can be crucial in the environment of the postseason.

Previous Success in the Playoffs

While the Royals have had their ups and downs in recent years, they are no strangers to playoff success. With two World Series appearances in the last decade, and a championship win in 2015, the Royals know what it takes to compete at the highest level. Also, there are plenty of veterans on the team, helping the youngsters of the team thrive and succeed in the mental aspects.

While the Kansas City Royals may not be the favorites to win the World Series, their combination of young talent, a strong pitching staff, chemistry, and recent playoff success  makes them my personal favorite in this year’s pennant race. As the postseason continues, keep an eye on this team. They might just pull off the craziest run in recent MLB history and bring home another championship to Fountain City.

The Fall Off of Tim Anderson

By: Benson Elmore

Tim Anderson, the Chicago White Sox shortstop, could have had a historic career for the Chicago White Sox, and he had very high hopes for the future. Here’s a breakdown of how severely one of the most electric players in recent years has fallen off since his amazing season in 2021:

2021: In 2021, Tim Anderson made hitting in the majors look easy. He hit .309, showcasing his strong hitting ability and consistency. He was known for his excellent contact skills and agility on the base path. Anderson made the All-Star team this year, underscoring his status as one of the best all-around shortstops in the league. His defensive and offensive production were key for the White Sox, who were very competitive in the American League Central division that year.

2024: By the year 2024, Tim Anderson was just another “could have been” kind of guy for baseball fans. His batting average had settled around .218, reflecting a decent dip from his peak performance causing productivity concern. Injuries and changes in the White Sox roster in 2024 caused Anderson to be sent to Miami Beach to play for the marlins where he is now not half the player he was imagined to be. Ever since the infamous fight with Jose Ramirez, his career has never been the same, even seeming to affect his attributes, such as having no home runs this whole major league season. Since becoming a marlin though, Tim seems to be a simple name brought up only when someone needs something nostalgic to ponder on. 

When the name Tim Anderson appears in your mind, you probably think of the talented all-star shortstop for the White Sox, but that Tim Anderson seems to not exist anymore. The downfall of not only Tim Anderson, but the whole White Sox organization should be studied. Though Tim is no longer the electric middle infielder we all know, he will always be remembered for how significant his role was on the White Sox throughout his short-lived major league career.

Which Sumter-Born Pitcher will have a better 2024 season: JP Sears or Jordan Montgomery

By: Tucker Burnette

Which Sumter made pitcher will have the better season? JP Sears vs Jordan Montgomery. 

Sumter South Carolina is very prideful in their two big leaguers, especially when both are top pitchers not only on their teams but in the MLB. Last season, JP was the ace on the Oakland Athletics and Jordan was the Texas Rangers go to guy in their World Series win. Before the big money and wins began to roll in for these two, both began their careers as lefty dealers for the New York Yankees this is just one of the parallels in their careers. After they started their careers at the Yankees they were both traded, JP has found his role at the Athletics and Jordan has bounced around from team to team despite having success. 

With both pitchers being successful the comparisons are rolling in as to which pitcher will be the most successful next season. The obvious answer is Jordan just because he will more than likely land on a team that will be able to give him more support than the Athletics are able to give JP. 

Who wins the most games does not determine who has the best season, it’s all about the stats. Although the stats may be closer than many think, I personally think that the edge still goes to Jordan once again because of the supporting cast he will have playing defense for him. 

Baseball is an extremely unpredictable game so honestly no one really can decide who will be the better pitcher based on the previous numbers or even the preseason. So the verdict is still out as to who will be the better pitcher. 

Report: Red Sox linked to free agent pitcher Jordan Montgomery

Can Marcus Stroman make the New York Yankees a World Series contender this year?

By: Clark Kinney

Last week, the Yankees finalized a two year, $37 million deal with Marcus Stroman from who pitched for the Cubs last year, and before that, the Mets and Blue Jays. With this, the Yankees rotation now has stars Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Marcus Stroman. That is a pretty stacked rotation if you ask me. Gerrit Cole is arguably the best starting pitcher on this planet and even though Carlos Rodón did not have his best season in 2023, he was battling injuries and we know he has it in him because of how good he was in 2021 and 2022 with the White Sox and Giants. The Yankees also added a young superstar for 2024 with Juan Soto who will likely hit many home runs due to the short right field in Yankee Stadium as he is a left handed hitter. Not to mention, the Yankees already have Aaron Judge who battled some injuries in 2023 but had a historic 2022 season blasting 62 home runs.

Back to Stroman. I am a huge Stroman guy and this may be bias, but I believe he is what kids these days call a “dawg”. He has his own baseball cleat brand and I even bought a pair. I remember growing up watching the Toronto Blue Jays and thinking how much fun they were to watch. With Jose Bautista and his iconic bat flip, Kevin Pillar robbing home runs and making superman diving plays in the outfield, Edwin Encarnacion hitting bombs and carrying the parrot around the bases, and last but not least, Marcus Stroman’s high energy and swagger every time he stepped on the mound. This team made me realize how much I loved baseball and still do to this day. 

If you haven’t watched Stroman pitch, I highly recommend it. Stroman has always been told he wouldn’t make it and that he undersized at 5’8’’, so he plays with a chip on his shoulder and you can tell. He is fiery and very good. In 2023 for the Cubs, he had a 3.95 ERA with 119 strike outs and 10 wins. I think with this addition, along with everyone staying healthy, the Yankees can make a serious run and be a threat to any team in the MLB.