The Sporting News and Opening Day

MLB's Opening Day in 2022 marks the start of the 136th season that The Sporting News has covered baseball. We've seen things, going back to 1886.

Five MLB teams that will exceed over/under win totals in 2022

The Mariners won 90 games last season and pretty much stunned everyone. Which teams could be poised for a similar exceeding-of-expectations in 2022?

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: Lakers eliminated, Tiger will try to play Masters, MLB embraces PitchCom

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

Yankees predictions 2022: Why New York won't be as bad as everybody thinks this season

New York baseball fans weren't thrilled by the lack of star free agent signings from the Bronx Bombers. That doesn't mean they should be counted out in 2022.

MLB Opening Day 2022: List of key prospects to start the year on Major League rosters, from Bobby Witt Jr. to Julio Rodríguez

MLB teams are being less stingy with their young players heading into the 2022 season.

MLB blackout restrictions, explained: Map shows why you can't watch out-of-market baseball games in 2022

With Opening Day just around the corner, here's a look at what this year's blackout map looks like.

Why MLB will allow teams to use PitchCom device to combat sign-stealing

With the implementation of PitchCom, major league teams are hoping to snuff out the threat of sign-stealing and speed up the pace of play.

How to watch Blue Jays spring training 2022: Dates, times, TV channel, lineup, rotation

The 2022 MLB regular season is almost here as the Blue Jays are down in Florida for spring training.

Top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. ready for starring role with Royals

The No. 1 prospect in baseball has impressed his manager and teammates this spring both with his bat and his maturity.

22 things I really want to see during the 2022 MLB season

Now that a full MLB season is locked in, it's time to get greedy with what we want to see in 2022.

MLB Opening Day Power Rankings: Dodgers sit at No. 1; Braves, Blue Jays look strong

There aren't many unknowns in MLB this year. Here's how the teams are ranked, from best to worst, in time for Opening Day.

Future Wrigley Field fan favorite Nick Madrigal finally set to make long-awaited Cubs debut

Madrigal’s been waiting a while to play for the North Siders.

2022 Fantasy Baseball Cheat Sheet

Opening day is almost here, so it's time to prepare for your draft. Find position-by-position rankings, sleepers, top prospects, and draft strategy tips with our 2022 fantasy baseball cheat sheet.

2022 MLB Top Prospects

Rookies are always highly coveted in fantasy baseball, both redraft and keeper/dynasty leagues. Heading into 2022, there are plenty of prospects who could be sleepers and breakouts. Fantasy Alarm's Matt Selz ranks his 2022 MLB top prospect rankings.

Top Fantasy Baseball Sleepers 2022: Potential breakouts, steals in 2022 drafts

Who will be this year's biggest fantasy baseball sleepers? James Grande from Fantasy Alarm breaks down his favorite potential breakouts ahead of 2022 draft.

Fantasy Baseball Draft Strategy

There's no set way to draft your fantasy baseball team, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't have a strategy. Get advice and tips on how to navigate your draft and win your league in 2022.

Fantasy Baseball Top 100 Rankings

It's fantasy baseball draft season, which means you need rankings ahead of your 2022 draft. Fantasy Alarm gives us a preview of their Top 300 rankings, complete with top players, sleepers, and potential breakouts.

Fantasy Baseball RP Rankings

Saves make fantasy baseball owners work harder than any other categories. Fantasy Alarm reveals the top of its RP/closer rankings ahead of 2022 fantasy baseball drafts.

Fantasy Baseball SP Rankings

Injuries, innings limits, hard-luck losses -- let the memories all come flooding back as you check out a preview of Fantasy Alarm's SP rankings ahead of your 2022 fantasy baseball drafts. See which starting pitcher tops the list this year.

Fantasy Baseball OF Rankings

Many of the top players in fantasy baseball can be found in the outfield, and every year, some of the biggest sleepers also emerge from there. Get a sneak peek at the top of Fantasy Alarm's 2022 OF rankings ahead of your 2022 draft.

Fantasy Baseball SS Rankings

Shortstop is once again loaded, so what's the best way to navigate this deep and category-rich position? We look at the top of Fantasy Alarm's SS rankings ahead of 2022 fantasy baseball drafts.

Fantasy Baseball 3B Rankings

Third base features some of baseball's top prospects and host of proven stars, but is the position as strong as it used to be? Fantasy Alarm gives us a sneak peek at its 3B rankings ahead of 2022 fantasy baseball drafts.

Fantasy Baseball 2B Rankings

Speed, power, average -- second base has it all...kind of. Check out Fantasy Alarm's 2B rankings ahead of your 2022 fantasy baseball draft.

Fantasy Baseball 1B Rankings

The big boppers at first base are back and ready to provide your fantasy baseball team with HRs and RBIs. Find out who the best of the best are ahead of your 2022 draft with Fantasy Alarm's 1B rankings.

Fantasy Basketball Catcher Rankings

Check out Fantasy Alarm's rankings for the top catchers and potential breakouts behind the plate ahead of your 2022 fantasy baseball draft.

Why the Mets may use an opener on Opening Day with Jacob deGrom, Max Scherzer hurt

The Mets have one of the deepest rotations in baseball, but their top two starters are banged up.

Craig Kimbrel-AJ Pollock trade grades: Dodgers find closer for bullpen; White Sox upgrade outfield

This trade is a win-win as each team upgraded an area where it needed help.

Charlie Montoyo contract details: Blue Jays extend manager through 2023 season

Charlie Montoyo will be staying around in Toronto for the next two seasons after signing a contract extension on Friday.

Five big questions in the NL West, starting with the Dodgers' superiority

Regular-season results aren’t really important for the Dodgers. This team is going to make the playoffs, and its only goal is winning a World Series.

Five big questions in the AL West, starting with the Mariners' postseason drought

There are lots of little questions about the Seattle baseball squad, but they all connect to the larger one: Will the Mariners get back to the postseason?

Jacob deGrom injury update: Mets ace out for four weeks with stress reaction in shoulder

This year, the New York ace's arm woes are beginning in spring training.

When does MLB The Show 22 come out? Release date, cost, Switch details & editions for 2022

For the first time, "The Show" comes to Nintendo Switch. Here's what you need to know about the 2022 baseball video game, including the release date, prices and more.

Blue Jays Opening Day: Toronto tabs Jose Berrios as starter for opener against Rangers

Jose Berrios will be the Blue Jays starter for their 2022 Opening Day on Friday.

Seiya Suzuki has won over Cubs' clubhouse; next impression will come with bat

Safe to say, Seiya Suzuki has made a good first impression in the Cubs clubhouse. With his power from the right side, Cubs fans are excited to see him at Wrigley Field soon — his teammates too.

Five questions in the NL Central, starting with the Cardinals' trio of 40-somethings

The Cardinals are in a unique situation in 2022. They are very capable of competing for the NL Central crown and a making a deep October run, but they’re also trafficking heavily in nostalgia this season. 

Blue Jays Opening Day: Rangers announce Jon Gray as starter against Toronto

The Blue Jays will face Jon Gray in their Opening Day matchup against the Rangers.

Five big questions in the AL Central, starting with the White Sox roster

White Sox fans are not satisfied with the roster. It’s not a stretch to say that it’s the most frustrated fan base for any team expected to win its division.

MLB offseason grades: Dodgers, Mets earn high marks; Yankees confuse

It was the offseason to remember, but baseball is, thankfully, back. Here's how it all went down.

If Shohei Ohtani stays healthy and productive, can anyone else be AL MVP?

Can anyone other than Ohtani win the AL MVP in 2022? Or 2023? Or 2024? 

Nationals reveal 2022 MLB City Connect uniforms: Details, closer look at new jerseys

Paying homage to the cherry blossoms throughout the district, the Nationals' new look is pretty nice.

Andrea Thome, wife of Jim Thome, cancels Browns season tickets after Deshaun Watson trade: 'I believe women'

Andrea Thome explained why her family won't be supporting the Browns in wake of the Deshaun Watson trade.

Cody Bellinger is struggling again, but Dodgers are so good that it might not matter

Cody Bellinger is having trouble making contact with the baseball. But here’s the honest truth: It does not matter.

Why are the Cardinals signing Albert Pujols? St. Louis adds franchise icon to DH mix

The 42-year-old Pujols could be a weapon for St. Louis against left-handers.

'Castellanos Curse' continues as Nick Castellanos interrupts serious conversation with first hit in Phillies jersey

Nick Castellanos simply cannot stop getting hits in the middle of serious conversations.

Mariners prospect Julio Rodriguez shows why he's exactly what MLB needs

Major League Baseball needs players like Julio Rodriguez. 

Blue Jays' Mark Shapiro says incoming players needing vaccinations 'impacted our access to talent'

Much has been made of competitive advantages for the Blue Jays with players requiring vaccines to play in Toronto. Team president Mark Shapiro explains why it's a double-edged sword.

Randal Grichuk trade details: Blue Jays send outfielder, cash to Rockies for Raimel Tapia, prospect Adrian Pinto

The Blue Jays and Rockies swapped outfielders, with Toronto also getting an infield prospect.

MLB free agency tracker 2022: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades after lockout ends

Sporting News is tracking live MLB free agency news and rumors as baseball reopens for business following the end of the lockout. Follow along for updates on the top players available.

Five big questions in the AL East, starting with the Yankees' vaccination issues

Can four teams from the AL East make the postseason? It’s going to be a question all season as the Yankees, Blue Jays, Rays and Red Sox make noise.

MLB rule changes for 2022: Why controversial extra-inning ghost runner is sticking around (for now)

The "ghost runner" rule is back for 2022 — and potentially for the future.

Five big questions in the NL East, starting with the World Series champion Braves

The MLB season’s a few weeks away and most of the key free agents have found new homes, so it’s time to start taking a look at the key questions in each division. Let’s start with the NL East. 

'Shohei Ohtani Rule,’ explained: How MLB’s new CBA will benefit Angels, Ohtani and fans (just maybe not opponents)

The new rule will let Shohei Ohtani stay in the batting order even after he's done pitching.

Carlos Correa contract details: Twins, in a stunner, land shortstop with 3-year deal

Minnesota swoops in to sign the free-agent slugger 2 1/2 weeks before the start of the season.

Freddie Freeman, Braves each made right choice in superstar's free-agency drama

Despite what you may have seen screamed and bloviated on social media, there were no losers in the Freddie Freeman-to-the-Dodgers drama.

Reds, A’s top list of five MLB fan bases experiencing post-lockout blues

You’ll have to excuse Reds and A’s fans if they miss the good ol’ days of the lockout that shut down the sport for 99 days this offseason. At least when nothing was happening, well, nothing was happening. 

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: Von Miller joins Bills, Timberwolves trash-talk Russell Westbrook, Freddie Freeman to LA

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

Freddie Freeman contract details: Dodgers agree to six-year deal with former Braves first baseman

The Freddie Freeman sweepstakes are over. He is going to the Dodgers on a massive free-agent contract.

Trading for Matt Chapman a better fit for rising Blue Jays than signing Freddie Freeman

Matt Chapman is not a better ballplayer than Freddie Freeman, the free-agent first baseman so many Toronto baseball fans wanted their favorite team to sign. Chapman, though, is a better fit for the Blue Jays.

Who is Seiya Suzuki? How former Hiroshima star fits in with Cubs roster

The Cubs signed Seiya Suzuki to a 5-year deal worth $85 million on Wednesday, landing an international star.

Unvaccinated Yankees players are only eligible for 70 games, put team at severe disadvantage

As of this very moment, a fully healthy Aaron Judge is only eligible to play in 70 of the Yankees’ 162 games on the 2022 regular-season schedule. 

Freddie Freeman rumors: Former MLB slugger Carlos Baerga hints at Blue Jays signing star first baseman

Is Freddie Freeman heading north of the border?

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: Tom Brady returns, March Madness is set, LeBron hits a milestone

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

Josh Donaldson trade details: Yankees add slugger, parting with Gary Sanchez, Gio Urshela

The Yankees and Twins agreed on a blockbuster trade on the eve of spring training.

Mets will 'probably' get over Cohen Threshold of $290 million; how the franchise got there

Team owner Steve Cohen wants to make sure the Mets are mentioned among top spenders this season.

Yusei Kikuchi contract details: Blue Jays sign lefty pitcher to three-year deal

The Blue Jays bolstered their rotation, giving Yusei Kikuchi a three-year deal.

What to know about 2022 MLB schedule, Opening Day date with lockout over

After reports of progress this week, MLB and the MLBPA reportedly agreed to a new CBA on Thursday

Why MLB jerseys could look a little bit different following end of lockout

With the lockout officially over, MLB teams could be making small changes to their uniforms.

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: MLB lockout is over, Kevin Durant clowns Philly fans, Steph Curry makes memories

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

Carlos Correa, Freddie Freeman lead list of MLB's 35 best post-lockout free agents

MLB trade rumors: Which star players will be dealt before Opening Day?

How MLB, players can make 2022 the Year of the Fan after ugly lockout

Major League Baseball has spent the past few months force-feeding its fans what felt like a never-ending stream of reasons to resent their favorite sport. It's time for MLB and its players to go heavy in the other direction.

'See y’all soon': Alex Bregman, Andrew McCutchen & more MLB players react to lockout ending

The MLB lockout is over, and players are celebrating the return of baseball.

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: More MLB games canceled, Carson Wentz to Washington, Oscar Tshiebwe wins SN Player of the Year

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

The stupidest moment of this whole stupid MLB lockout happened Wednesday at 6:28 p.m.

Seven more days and 93 more games were canceled because the MLB owners and players could not agree on how to table an issue that both wanted to table. 

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: Aaron Rodgers stays, Russell Wilson goes, Will Ferrell boosts Warriors

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

How an imperfect 14-team MLB playoff could work for everyone even without 'ghost wins'

An expanded MLB postseason is one of the big sticking points in the ongoing contentious CBA negotiations, but it's also an area that could serve as a breakthrough point toward an agreement.

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: NFL comes down hard on Calvin Ridley, Gregg Popovich hits milestone

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

MLB players launch $1 million fund to support workers impacted by lockout

The MLBPA is looking out for baseball's army of game-day workers.

TSN Originals: How The Sporting News covered Jackie Robinson's first spring training

April 15, 1947, is etched in baseball lore as the day Jackie Robinson broke MLB's color barrier, but he reported to his first spring training with the Dodgers organization more than a year earlier, ending baseball's segregation.

Rob Manfred’s timeline of controversies: Every time MLB’s commissioner has made baseball fans angry

Manfred has not been a popular commissioner during his time at the helm of the league.

Cubs' Jason Heyward breaks down MLB's lockout 'goal' of delaying 2022 season

The outfielder believes the league didn't much care to start the season on time.

What's next for MLB lockout? With early games canceled, 2022 season breeds uncertainty

When will MLB players and owners meet next? How many more games could be canceled? There are more questions than answers.

Mike Trout joins MLB players in voicing frustration over Rob Manfred's handling of lockout

"Manfred gotta go," one player tweeted.

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: MLB cancels Opening Day, no Aaron Rodgers trade offers yet

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

Rob Manfred makes confusing link between COVID-19 pandemic and MLB revenues

Not quite the same timeline, Rob.

Is MLB Opening Day canceled? Rob Manfred says start of season delayed amid CBA lockout

Sporting News is tracking the latest news on the lockout that is keeping MLB players off the field in 2022.

With MLB games canceled and fan apathy blooming, blame rests solely on owners

This lockout will be the final straw for some baseball fans. Truth is, I can’t blame them. 

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: Ja Morant puts on a show, Aaron Rodgers might get paid, MLB still talking

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

Can MLB players play in Japan or Korea during lockout? Overseas leagues may provide playing option

Players may be looking for somewhere to play if the lockout drags on — could that mean seeing MLB stars overseas?

Why Derek Jeter is stepping down from Marlins CEO, ownership roles

Jeter said that he will no longer be the CEO with the team, nor will he be a shareholder in the club.

MLB's Statement of Doom dashes hopes for Opening Day and 162-game season

As much as I hate to admit this, I have reported to spring camp, and my jersey is hanging in my locker inside the #TeamPessimism clubhouse. 

Black History Month: Why Jackie Robinson could have broken pro basketball's color barrier

Jackie Robinson is widely renowned as the player who broke baseball's color barrier, but did you know that the sport's paramount pioneer could've chosen professional basketball instead of baseball? This is the story of Jackie Robinson, the basketball player.

'The Sporting News 7' podcast: MLB sets deadline, NBA returns and Tom Brady heads to Hollywood

There's a new sports podcast to put in your daily lineup. Catch up on the biggest names and biggest games with The Sporting News 7 every morning at 7 a.m. ET.

MLB free-agent rumors: If Freddie Freeman leaves Atlanta, where could he go?

Even now, nearly three months after the Braves failed to make an offer good enough to re-sign Freddie Freeman before the MLB lockout started, it’s hard to imagine Atlanta’s franchise icon playing in a different uniform. 

MLB lockout tracker: Common sense talk about today's CBA negotiations

Because MLB and the MLBPA are meeting every day this week, we thought we’d take those notes and reports and try to add a little context and clarity, if you’re just now tuning in to the labor dispute.  

Unlike last time, MLB has no saviors-in-waiting to win back fans if chunk of season is lost

Let's play out the worst-case scenario. Let's pretend that MLB owners and players fail to reach a new collective bargaining agreement anytime soon and the 2022 season is severely shortened or canceled. Where would baseball go from there?

Delayed regular season, apathy could send MLB to a very bad place

A sport can't get healthy if it doesn't exist. And until the owners lift the lockout, until a new CBA agreement happens, until players actually take the field, MLB basically doesn't exist.

Eric Kay trial: Ex-Angels employee convicted in overdose death of Tyler Skaggs

Kay faces a minimum of 20 years in prison after he was convicted of having caused the death of the Angels pitcher.

Iconic 1987 Topps set still loved by collectors on 35th anniversary

Even now, 35 years later, opening a pack of 1987 Topps feels like home.

Matt Harvey testimony details: Cocaine, pill use revealed in trial over Tyler Skaggs' death

The veteran pitcher took the stand to offer explosive testimony in the trial that surrounds the death of former Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs.

MLB can't let extended lockout threaten Jackie Robinson Day on 75th anniversary of his debut

If the MLB lockout steamrolls Opening Day, you don’t have to look much farther down the calendar to see the next potential casualty: Jackie Robinson Day, on April 15. That would be a terrible look for baseball.

Saturday meeting between MLB, MLBPA looms large as spring training nears

Baseball is getting down to crunch time. We’re not officially there yet, but we’re close.

Fans can have voice in MLB lockout by canceling their MLB.TV subscriptions

While it might seem like baseball fans can't do much to channel their frustration into effective advocacy to end the MLB lockout, there is one way to send a message that MLB and its owners should understand.

Will MLB lockout affect the regular season? History offers clue for deadline to play 162 games in 2022

Though things may seem to be nearing a drop-dead point to ensure a full MLB regular season, history tells us there's probably more negotiation time for the owners and players than one might realize.

Tom Brady, Expos legend? How close the QB was to choosing a baseball career

Brady's retirement officially closes the book on players drafted by the Montreal Expos.

Replacing baseball legends: Stories you haven't heard about six Hall of Famers' final games

They were footnotes in MLB history, but the moments remain special.

Inside eBay's new Authenticity Guarantee for trading cards: 'It'll be a fast service'

The program is designed to ensure that all card buyers who spend more than $750 actually get what they expect.

Ortiz's reaction to getting elected into the HOF is priceless

Ortiz's reaction to being inducted into the Hall of Fame on Tuesday was posted by the Red Sox Twitter account.

Astros sign-stealing scandal will likely hurt Carlos Beltran's 2023 Hall of Fame chances

Carlos Beltran’s Hall of Fame resume was pretty much completely wrapped up heading into 2017, his Age 40 season. But he's far from a no-doubter.

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.

Baseball Hall of Fame 2023: Carlos Beltran headlines newcomers on next BBWAA ballot

The power of the thunder and lightning that accompanied the release of the class of the 2022 Hall of Fame ballot — and the discussion about the ballot and the reveal of the final vote totals — will be turned down a few notches when we do this all again next winter.

Baseball Hall of Fame 2022: TSN's Marc Lancaster explains his BBWAA ballot

Sporting News senior editor and Baseball Hall of Fame voter Marc Lancaster breaks down his 2022 selections.

What's next for Rays after MLB nixes Montreal 'sister cities' plan?

The Rays are back in a familiar position. They need/want a new stadium in a new location, preferably in the Tampa Bay area.

Petco Park deaths ruled suicide-homicide

San Diego Police on Wednesday concluded their investigation into the two deaths and released their findings on Wednesday.

Angels' Shohei Ohtani weighs in on being the face of baseball, addresses Stephen A. Smith criticisms

Speaking with GQ, Ohtani says he welcomes being considered "face of baseball."

34 crazy MLB statistical coincidences you need to know

Baseball is full of statistical oddities and factual coincidences. With the lockout still in full force, we thought we’d take the opportunity to compile a list of the most mind-blowing statistical/factual baseball coincidences we could find.

Foster: Lockout could accelerate MLB's path to irrelevance

It's been said that apathy is worse than anger. If that's true, MLB could be in trouble.

Why you shouldn't expect a flurry of trades immediately after MLB lockout ends

The rules of the MLB lockout prevent teams from discussing trades, at least officially.

Gatto: MLB shows it won't allow criticism

The longtime baseball reporter and columnist is out as an MLB Network insider after he wrote less-than-glowing things about the commissioner for The Athletic.

Baseball Hall of Fame 2022: TSN's Ryan Fagan explains his BBWAA ballot

Here are the eight players I voted for, in alphabetical order by last name: Bobby Abreu, Barry Bonds, Mark Buehrle, Roger Clemens, David Ortiz, Manny Ramirez, Scott Rolen and Gary Sheffield.

Shohei Ohtani is 2021 Sporting News Athlete of the Year

Choosing an Athlete of the Year is often a daunting task. But not in 2021. Thanks, Shohei Ohtani.

AL West post-lockout priorities: Rangers still need pitching

Texas spent big pre-lockout, but the pitching staff still needs reinforcements.

AL Central post-lockout-priorities: White Sox need 2nd baseman

The White Sox are off to a nice start this offseason but still have needs to address after the lockout.

AL East post-lockout priorities: Rays looking for big bat

The Rays need a bat, as do the Red Sox. The Yankees? They are slow-playing their roster build thus far.

SN 50: Remembering Bob Gibson

Bob Gibson's 1968 season lands him on the list of the 50 greatest individual seasons of all time, but there's a TSN story behind the fearsome competitor.

Every MLB team's holiday wish list heading into the 2022 season

Teams were busy before the lockout signing free agents and making moves. Here are a few more each team will need to make once the offseason officially resumes.

The 50 greatest seasons in sports history, ranked

The list of the greatest sports seasons of all time could have been hundreds of seasons long, and still worthy seasons would have been left on the cutting room floor. These are the top 50.

NL West post-lockout priorities: Everybody needs starters; will Giants bring back Kris Bryant?

Baseball’s labor negotiations have entered the Temple of Doom this winter, and the hope is that the owners and players will quit stalling and find a mine cart that will carry them out of danger before spring training is threatened.

NL Central post-lockout priorities: Brewers need another big bat, Cardinals need bullpen help

Just because it’s going to be a while until the players and owners hammer out a resolution, that doesn’t mean we have to stop discussing what might/should happen when baseball eventually resumes.

NL East post-lockout priorities: Braves need to re-sign Freeman, Phillies need outfielders

When the MLB lockout ends, you’re going to see a flurry of trades and free-agent signings. It will probably be a lot of fun, honestly.

Mets' Max Scherzer prefers team to hire Buck Showalter as next manager, per report

The Mets are still looking for a new manager, and Max Scherzer wants a grizzled veteran to fill that role.

Clint Frazier sounds happy that he's not a Yankee anymore

Frazier signed a contract with the Cubs earlier in December, and he sounds glad to be heading to the Second City.

MLB lockout: 5 teams, 5 players stuck in limbo during work stoppage

The expected long layoff until MLB and the MLBPA agree to a new collective bargaining agreement will be a lot colder for some teams and their fan bases than it will be for others.

Why MLB players are changing their Twitter avatars en masse as lockout begins

It's maybe a little petty, but there's a reason behind it.

MLB lockout blame game: Why fans usually side with owners during a labor dispute

The default position of so many fans during a strike or lockout seems to place more blame on the “greedy” players than the owners. To understand why, we must look to psychology.

MLB lockout, explained: Everything to know about baseball's 2021 work stoppage

The MLB lockout has arrived. Here’s what you need to know.

Free-agent tracker: Scherzer decision close?

Here's the latest on the 2021-22 MLB free-agent market.

Marcus Stroman signs with Cubs; source: Marcus Stroman

Stroman announced his signing via Twitter about 90 minutes before the Cubs issued a press release.

How much does adding a Cy Young winner help a team? Mets, Mariners hoping for improvements

Let's break down historic numbers for teams that have Cy Young winners on their roster compared with those without one.

How will MLB's free-agent frenzy affect upcoming lockout and CBA negotiations?

MLB owners and players have spent the final few days before the anticipated lockout seeking certainty, and the hot stove was as hot as ever.

Corey Seager contract details

Seager was the latest signing of a team that is committing major resources to improving its chances to compete in 2022.

Max Scherzer contract details: Mets ink three-time Cy Young winner to record $130 million deal

Max Scherzer now has the highest average annual value on a contract in MLB history.

Fagan: Max Scherzer believes in the Mets

Max Scherzer believes in the Mets, it seems.

Jays land big-name FA starter; see contract details

Sporting News breaks down how much the right-hander will make as he joins Toronto's rotation.

Mets owner Steve Cohen pens angry tweet about Steven Matz's deal with the Cardinals

Cohen called out Matz's agent, saying he had never encountered such unprofessional behavior.

Rays sign star prospect Franco to 11-year deal

The Rays have signed their dynamic young talent to the most lucrative contract in team history.

MLB trade rumors: 12 impact players who could be dealt this offseason

The crop of free-agents on the market is solid, both in terms of quantity and quality. But for teams looking to upgrade — before or after the expected lockout — there are lots of options on the trade market, too.

Noah Syndergaard and Mike Francesa deliver Grade A Twitter beef: 'Didn't know you were still alive'

New York's No. 1 vs. former New York Mets No. 2 got ugly in a hurry.

Derek Jeter responds to Carlos Correa's comments: 'I didn't think much about it'

Jeter told reporters, "I don't know how my name came up," in response to Correa's podcast appearance in which the free-agent shortstop said Jeter "didn't deserve" his five Gold Gloves.

Athlete reactions to Kyle Rittenhouse not guilty verdict by jury

Shohei Ohtani joins elite company with unanimous MVP selection

Ohtani is only the 19th player in MLB history — and the fifth since 2000 — to sweep all 30 first-place votes for the AL MVP.

Shohei Ohtani winning AL MVP would cost U.S. sportsbook more than $1 million

One bettor put down $30,000 on Ohtani to win the top award in the American League back in March. On Thursday, he could earn nearly $1 million with the bet.

Justin Verlander contract details: How much are Astros paying ace to return to Houston?

Verlander is slated to return to Houston after missing most of the past two seasons as he recovers from Tommy John surgery.

AL and NL Cy Young voting: How Robbie Ray and Corbin Burnes won MLB's top pitching awards

Ray was a near-unanimous winner of the award, while Burnes required down-ballot votes to secure his award win.

NL Cy Young Award: SN MLB writer explains why he voted Corbin Burnes No. 1

The 2021 National League Cy Young race was a fascinating study.

Don't expect Carlos Correa's take on Derek Jeter to be a deal-breaker for Yankees

The Yankees need a shortstop. Correa is the best one available. Whatever he said about Jeter shouldn't mean a thing when contract talks take place.

MLB awards 2021: Full list of finalists, winners for MVP, Rookie of the Year, Cy Young and more

Follow for full results of the 2021 MLB awards, including MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year and Manager of the Year.

Revamping MLB Draft order is key to eliminating tanking in baseball

MLB has a competition problem. Stripping a roster to bare bones and losing at historic levels is a massive detriment to baseball’s overall health. It doesn’t have to be this way.

Ranking the 20 best free-agent starting pitchers, with potential landing spots

So your favorite team needs pitching? Join the club. To quote Yankees GM Brian Cashman at the GM meetings earlier this week: “Pitching, pitching, pitching.” There’s something for every team in this year’s market.

Yankees have strong free-agent options at shortstop, center field and starter

There’s plenty of motivation in New York this offseason to add significant talent to what’s already a very talented roster.

Where will Dodgers' star-studded crop of 12 free agents sign?

This is setting up to be quite an important offseason for the Dodgers.

Justin Verlander rumors: Yankees, Tigers among 13 best fits in MLB free agency

Instead of trying to guess what’s in Verlander’s plans, let’s instead take a look at which teams need a start of the caliber of Verlander to plug in near the top of their rotation. The greater the rotation need and the closer the team is to an October breakthrough, the higher they rank.

LHP Andrew Heaney to join the 2022 Dodgers

After ending his 2021 season with the Yankees and a high ERA, the Dodgers picked up LHP Andrew Heaney for a one-year deal.

A's would be foolish not to offer manager job to Braves' Ron Washington

Washington's impact on the World Series champion Atlanta Braves was undeniable, and it wasn’t just the pregame fungo routine that helped his infielders fine-tune their preparation every single day or his work as the third-base coach. No, the impact goes much deeper than that.

What's next for Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers after ace does not receive qualifying offer

The franchise arm will now hit free agency without a potential fallback to stick around with Los Angeles.

Arizona Fall League brawl was 'two guys being knuckleheads,' coach says

Pirates prospect Canaan Smith-Njigba decked Red Sox minor leaguer Josh Winckowski after Winckowski winged Smith-Njigba with a fastball.

Braves World Series parade 2021 time, route and how to watch Atlanta's celebration

It's time to party like it's 1995, Braves fans. Here's how you can follow the World Series parade through Atlanta on Friday.

Buster Posey's Hall of Fame resume heavy on playoff success, light on traditional statistics

There’s no doubt that, during his career, Buster Posey “felt” like a Hall of Fame player. But does he have the numbers in his relatively short career to back up the narrative?

Fagan: Buster Posey has borderline Hall of Fame resume, but he likely gets in

Posey clearly still can compete at the highest level. He batted .304 for the Giants in 2021, leading the club to a franchise-record 107 victories and the NL West title. But he’s done playing ball, and the second question that pops to mind is this: Will he wind up in the Hall of Fame?

Ranking MLB's top 50 free agents for 2022: Correa, Scherzer, Freeman highlight strong class

How will the uncertainty over baseball’s current CBA negotiations affect the free-agent market?

Joc Pederson's pearls headed to Hall of Fame

The necklace became synonymous with the Braves' postseason run as fans began to don replicas of the outfielder's jewelry.

Why is Buster Posey retiring? Giants MVP catcher reportedly calling it a career

Posey, who is expected to make the announcement on Thursday, was a seven-time All-Star for the Giants and was the 2012 NL MVP.

Foster: For Braves, 'next year' is here, and next year might be better

So many times, Braves teams have left October with nothing but a bruised ego and a hopeful outlook. Not this year.

Albies stare into camera delights World Series fans

Oh, Ozzie.

Joe Buck angers Braves fans by discussing Freddie Freeman's pending free agency following World Series home run

The Fox broadcaster used the moment to discuss Freeman's potential free-agent status, angering Braves fans who simply wanted to enjoy it.

Astros shortstop Carlos Correa addresses future with team following World Series loss: 'These were the seven greatest years of my life'

Correa spent seven years with Houston and ranks among the top 10 in several key offensive categories, including WAR and OPS. He was also a two-time All-Star and the 2015 AL Rookie of the Year.

How World Series MVP Jorge Soler's three clutch home runs fueled Braves' improbable run

Soler prioritized quality over quantity with his hits during the 2021 World Series.

Live: Astros-Braves Game 6 updates, highlights

Sporting News tracked live scoring updates and highlights from Astros vs. Braves in the 2021 World Series. Follow for complete results from Game 6 on Tuesday night.

Fagan: Soler's legendary Game 6 blast tells tale of two offenses

Atlanta took over Game 6 with one mighty swing of the outfielder/DH's bat. It added two more long balls for good measure in its clinching victory.

21 reasons the Braves' 2021 World Series title was so very unexpected

Of the Braves franchise's four World Series titles, this is easily the most unlikely of the four. Maybe that makes it the most special.

Why didn't Braves challenge potentially pivotal call in World Series Game 6 vs. Astros?

Atlanta manager Brian Snitker made a seemingly questionable decision in the first inning of Game 6. The rules say otherwise.

What time is the World Series tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Astros vs. Braves Game 6

Here's all the information you need to watch the Astros take on the Braves, including TV schedule, channel and start time.

Max Fried and three more struggling stars who will shape World Series outcome

The World Series shifts to Houston for Game 6 on Tuesday.

What channel is Astros vs. Braves on today? Time, TV schedule to watch World Series Game 6

Here's how to watch a potential clinching Game 6 of the 2021 World Series between the Astros and Braves.

Fagan: Maldonado improbable Game 5 hero as Astros stay alive

The light-hitting catcher is the guy opposing teams need to get out when they face the Astros. The Braves couldn't do it in an elimination game.

Sutelan: Braves can now max out top relievers after Game 5 strategy

With several of his key relievers having pitched the previous two days, Braves manager Brian Snitker needed to rely on other arms to pitch multiple innings Sunday.

Astros force Game 6 after fast start by Braves

Sporting News tracked live scoring updates and highlights from Braves vs. Astros in the 2021 World Series. Follow for complete results from Game 5 on Sunday night.

World Series schedule 2021: Dates, start times, channels, scores for every Astros vs. Braves game

Here's all the information you need to watch each game of the 2021 World Series.

Freddie Freeman launches longest HR of postseason to give Braves lead in Game 5 of World Series

Freeman's blast traveled an estimated 460 feet, tying for the longest homer of his career in the Statcast era.

What channel is Astros vs. Braves on today? Time, TV schedule to watch World Series Game 5

Here's how to watch a potential clinching Game 5 of the 2021 World Series between the Astros and Braves.

What time is the World Series tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Astros vs. Braves Game 5

Here's all the information you need to watch Game 5 of the World Series, including the start time and a full TV schedule for Astros vs. Braves.

World Series Game 5 could mark end of eras as Freeman, Correa become free agents

It’s hard to imagine Atlanta baseball without Freddie Freeman. It’s also hard to imagine baseball in Houston without Carlos Correa. But this could be the end of the road in those cities for both players.

Dansby Swanson finally has game-changing moment as Braves move within one win of World Series title

Dansby Swanson and Jorge Soler hit historic back-to-back home runs as Atlanta moved within one win of a World Series title.

Missed opportunities come back to haunt Astros

The Astros left 11 runners on base as they failed to come up with clutch hits when they needed them.

Braves win away from World Series title after Game 4 comeback

Sporting News tracked live scoring updates and highlights from Braves vs. Astros in the 2021 World Series. Follow for complete results from Game 4 on Saturday night.

Foster: If Braves win Series, Kyle Wright will be big reason why

Kyle Wright's perfect inning of relief in an out-of-reach Game 2 set the tone for the huge effort the Braves got from him in Game 4.

Foster: Snitker move to pen despite no-hitter the right call

There was an exciting Game 3 of the World Series on Friday night, but you might not know that because baseball is apparently in a crisis.

What channel is Braves vs. Astros on today? Time, TV schedule to watch World Series Game 4

Here's all the information you need to watch Game 4 of the World Series between the Astros and Braves.

The play that broke up the Braves' no-hit bid

The ball dropped between Eddie Rosario and Dansby Swanson in shallow left field for a deflating single.

What time is the World Series tonight? TV schedule, channel to watch Astros vs. Braves Game 4

Here's all the information you need to watch Game 4 of the World Series, including the start time and a full TV schedule for Astros vs. Braves.