Washington Nationals
The Washington Nationals signing Nelson Cruz adds another power bat to the lineup to complement Juan Soto. More importantly he will be able to mentor Soto. Both are Dominican born and went through the same process to get to the Major Leagues. Soto can learn a lot about longevity at the big-league level, as Cruz has seen continued success as his career has progressed. I think Cruz will help Soto’s approach at the plate. Cruz will be a great asset for the Nationals. Here’s hoping he can leave the steroids in the past. Fingers crossed.
Atlanta Braves
Matt Olson: Objectively, this is a great move for the Braves. With Olson being five years younger than Freeman, the young core they have developed will continue to thrive and succeed. If you’d told me that the Braves could be as good this upcoming season as they were being World Champions in 2021, but WITHOUT Freddie Freeman, I would have called you crazy. Yet Alex Anthopoulos and company have done just that and gotten a younger and comparable first basemen for less.
New York Mets
Bassitt to the Mets: The acquisition of Chris Bassitt makes the Met rotation that much better. My concern is that Jacob deGrom, Max Scherzer and Bassitt are all on the other side of 30. They are still big game pitchers and work horses, but I would be wary of injury given deGrom’s in 2021 and Scherzer’s age. The Mets will need to address their starting pitching a few years down the line as these three get older but for right now: LGM! *Since writing this Scherzer and deGrom are both sidelined by injuries. You know, sometimes I really hate being right….
Philadelphia Phillies
Schwarber and Castellanos: Dave Dombrowsi signs Kyle Schwarber and Nicholas Castellanos to contracts this offseason. The Phillies are a frustrating team to be a fan of – they are lacking defensively and their pitching staff has been lackluster since 2020. So, what do they do? Instead of bringing in defensive upgrades or bolstering the rotation and bullpen, they bring in two hitters whose value comes solely at the plate! Fans at a Citizens Bank Park will get more souvenirs in the outfield bleachers this season, but once again this team is going nowhere fast.
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