MLB team standings before the 2019 season

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The Astros have won 103 games and it can be said that no one has had a career season – although Alex Bregman and Gerrit Cole may struggle to match their 2018 numbers. The depth of training is incredible and you can to expect Carlos Correa to bounce back after a second half-time lost.

The Astros have three important free agents in Dallas Keuchel, Charlie Morton and the amazing utility, Marwin Gonzalez, but they also have ready replacements. Forrest Whitley is the best hope among the miners. Josh James, who was part of the playoff lineup after a dominant season at Triple-A, participates in the early 90s as a starter; Private Kyle Tucker, another top 10 overall, struggled in his brief call in the big league, but lost an average of .590 at Triple-A at age 21.

Oh, and do not be surprised if the Astros seek to make a deal for another big bat: how about trading for Paul Goldschmidt, who is in the last year of his contract and who could be available? – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 100-62
World Series 2019 Score: 7-1

What, do you think the Yankees will stay quiet after losing to the playoffs Red Sox and seeing their archival players reach the World Series? Of course, the priority is probably to start with the depth of the pitch (Patrick Corbin is an obvious option), but we know that the big names of the independent agency are the two young hitter: Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. With Didi Gregorius operated by Tommy John, the Yankees suddenly have an opening at the short stop (although they can easily move Gleyber Torres). And do not ignore the idea of ​​signing Harper, even after the exchange of Giancarlo Stanton last winter. The Yankees could give up a $ 12.5 million club option for Brett Gardner and have Harper sign a left-field game. Work on these calls at home, John Sterling. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 91-71
World Series 2019 Score: 7-1

Like the Yankees, the Dodgers made their way into the luxury tax in 2018, giving them more flexibility to return in 2019 without harsh penalties. Priority 1: Renew the contract with internal legend Clayton Kershaw, who is likely to withdraw from his contract. Even a diminished Kershaw has remained one of the best starters of the game in 2018. Can you imagine it in stripes? Please, baseball gods, send it back to L.A. The Dodgers have passed the big freestyle players in recent seasons, but if they ever go that route, it will be to sign a young player. No room for Harper, you say? He could play on the left, giving L.A. this composition:

1B Max Muncy
3B Justin Turner
SS Corey Seager
LF Bryce Harper
CF Cody Bellinger
2B Chris Taylor
RF Yasiel Puig
C Austin Barnes

How is it to intrigue? – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 108-54
World Series 2019 Score: 6-1

Since 1969, in the divisional period, 13 teams have won at least 104 games (including the 1995 Indians, who have won 112 pro-rated games). The following season, these 13 teams went from an average of 107.8 wins to 97.5. All have won at least 92 games, with the exception of the 1984 Tigers, which went from 104 to 84. The Red Sox will probably be very good. Do not expect that they will win 108 games. All key elements are back, with the exception of Craig Kimbrel, though they do not re-sign him as a free agent (David Price may step down, but will probably not do it ). You must be worried for Chris Sale's shoulder, but the central core of Mookie Betts, Martinez, Xander Bogaerts and Andrew Benintendi should ensure a more exciting season in Beantown. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 90-72
World Series 2019 Score: 12-1

The Braves may have arrived one season ahead, but the NL East title was not fuzzy: they outscored their opponents by 102 points, they were consistent throughout the season and they surpassed .500 in their division. Ronald Acuña Jr. was so good in the second half – .322 / .403 / .625 – that he is perhaps already the best player in the National League. They just need to consolidate some of the young pitching talents that they have in the major and minor leagues, perhaps presenting some for a beginner or a big hitter in the right field to replace the agent free Nick Markakis (if they do not bring it back). – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 91-71
World Series 2019 Score: 10-1

After being eliminated again in the playoffs, the Indians should still benefit from a one or two year grace period as a class of the weakest division of baseball, thanks to their ever-dominant rotation. and the infield duo composed of Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez. But Lindor is only owned by the Indians for three more seasons, so time is running out – and could encourage them to continue to be aggressive in the market while maintaining their window of disagreement.

As it stands, the Indians now have a stack of free agents to sort through, starting with the end-of-game tandem Cody Allen and Andrew Miller, forwards Michael Brantley and Lonnie Chisenhall (and Melky Cabrera). and Rajai Davis), the hired Josh Donaldson and veteran pitchers Josh Tomlin and Oliver Perez. Of all the members of this group, the most important needs are finding replacements in the corridors and outside corners. Getting Brad Hand last summer had already helped in the first game, while moving Jason Kipnis to the outside field for support only helps if his stick returns. – Kahrl

Record 2018: 95-67
World Series 2019 Score: 12-1

The Brewers have not won the World Series yet, but they have the depth and talent to go further in 2019. All key players will be back, led by MVL MVP Christian Yelich, who is currently playing in one of the best clubs. friendly contracts in the game as it will only win $ 9.75 million next season. The playoffs also showed that Brandon Woodruff and Corbin Burnes could be valuable members of the rotation next year and they hope to have a healthy Jimmy Nelson after missing all year 2018. There is some place in the budget to make waves as a free agent "Certainly, a starting pitcher is an option if they want to keep Burnes in a corrector role alongside Josh Hader & Co." Schoenfield

Record 2018: 95-67
World Series 2019 Score: 10-1

The difference in talent between the Brewers and the Cubs is minimal, but we can say that the Cubs are even better. They had a slightly better differential and they had more problems in 2018 with significant injuries to Yu Darvish and Kris Bryant. Certainly, a healthier and more productive season of Bryant will help rejuvenate an attack that has experienced difficulties. They will have to make a decision regarding Addison Russell: should they trade him after his suspension for a domestic assault and make Javier Baez the regular stop-court, or give Russell another chance?

The main concerns, however, lie in the rotation. Darvish did only eight starts and Tyler Chatwood got a return of 5.30. Jon Lester won 18 games and averaged a points difference of 3.32, but was 4.50 points in the second period. Cole Hamels, who has a $ 20 million club option, will also have to make a decision. There is a potential of 100 wins here if all goes well. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 90-72
World Series 2019 Score: 40-1

It was a remarkable season for the Rays and not only because they introduced the "open" strategy to the game. Despite a difficult rotation, they won 90 games, including 36 to 19 scored in the last two months. They were even a respectable 17-21 against the Red Sox and the Yankees. In one way or another, they granted the fewest points to the second round of the league (Blake Snell's 1.89 AR was there for many). They could be really interesting if Tommy Pham produces for a full season and Willy Adames continues to become a star. The Rays also have only one player who owes money guaranteed for 2019 – Kevin Kiermaier – in order to possibly add a minor free agent or two. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 88-74
World Series 2019 Score: 16-1

The Cardinals have now missed the playoffs three seasons in a row – unthinkable for any of the game's foundation franchises, knowing that they missed the playoffs only four times in 16 seasons leading up to the drought. They will have to find support and decide if Carlos Martinez is still a very good beginner or a new relative. Marcell Ozuna is a good bet for a better season and Harrison Bader has emerged as a defensive wizard and an energetic presence in training. My guy to watch: Jack Flaherty, who had a rookie campaign under the radar with 182 K's in 151 innings and only 108 shots allowed. It could be the response of the Cardinals to Walker Buehler as one of the next big pitching stars. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 78-84
World Series 2019 Score: 60-1

The biggest question in Minnesota is whether the new director, Rocco Baldelli, may or may not clear the talent of some of the most promising former prospects of the Twins. Miguel Sano and Byron Buxton are the obvious problem players, but you can also add Max Kepler to this list after his disappointing .727 OPS. On the financial side, the Twins exchanged their main free agents, Zach Duke being the most important name among those eligible beyond Joe Mauer, who could retire. The purchase of Ervin Santana's option for 2019 for $ 1 million after missing most of 2018 seems simple. With a payroll that can range between $ 70 and $ 80 million, the Twins can afford to shop, especially given the state of three-fifths of their rivals in Central AL, but they must be convinced that some of their alleged competitors Shredders will play at this level to make their investments profitable. – Kahrl

Record 2018: 91-71
World Series 2019 Score: 30-1

The Rockies have made two consecutive playoff appearances for the first time in the history of the franchise, but it will be difficult to reach three other players in 2019. Colorado must make two tough decisions as a result. an independent agent when DJ LeMahieu and Adam Ottavino enter the market (letting Carlos Gonzalez walk is easier), but there is a good chance that neither will come back to him. next year and that training needs serious updates from a bat with a striking right-handed hand. There are advantages if the starting shots are still as good as those of Kyle Freeland and the German group Marquez throughout 2018, and if young people like Ryan McMahon, Raimel Tapia and the main hope Brendan Rodgers can ease the burden from Nolan. Arenado, Trevor Story and Charlie Blackmon. The big unknown: Would they consider exchanging Arenado, a free agent after 2019, if they could not sign for an extension? – Mullen

Record 2018: 80-82
World Series 2019 Score: 40-1

As usual, their floor is high because of Mike Trout, but the Angels always seem stuck in the middle and it's hard to find a way out of this .500 mud. Mike Scioscia is out after 19 seasons and Brad Ausmus is present. So it's probably fair to say that the Angels needed a new life, not that Scioscia was the biggest problem. Kole Calhoun and Zack Cozart will need rebound seasons, but the rotation will be less Shohei Ohtani, who will be limited to DH's duties, and Garrett Richards (Tommy John's free agent plus surgery). Then there is Albert Pujols, a puncture on the budget that has only little value (0.5 WAR). – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 82-80
World Series 2019 Score: 16-1

They do not to have sign Bryce Harper while an off-side consisting of Juan Soto, Victor Robles and Adam Eaton, with Michael Taylor kicked off the bench, still stood as one of the best in the game. It's pretty easy to say that it would be better for the Nationals not to sign Harper's inconvenience again after a season of .249 / .393 / .496 (and under 26 defenses). defensives saved including time in the center) and to use their resources elsewhere. . I do not know, I could recommend the bullpen.

The tricky thing is that, as we have seen with other teams, paying for free agent statements often amounts to throwing money into a garbage container. Whatever they do, it's clear: you'd better play all-in when Max Scherzer is one of the best pitchers in the game. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 97-65
World Series 2019 Score: 30-1

It was a miracle season, but it will be difficult to repeat the A for several reasons. The bullpen will probably regress a bit (Blake Treinen will probably not have an ERP of 0.78) and the rotation could collapse after being ranked sixth in the LA in ERA. Sean Manaea is away for the season after a shoulder operation and it is unlikely that they will once again receive the surprising work that they have done with Edwin Jackson and at the same time. ;other. But the A's have a big star in Matt Chapman and they're good at the things that win in modern baseball: they hit home runs and they have a deep pen. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 77-85
World Series 2019 Score: 30-1

The Mets are at the top of the list of the most unpredictable teams – and this is before the announced recruitment of Agent Brodie Van Wagenen as the new Managing Director. They could go in any direction, but the most important imperative is to get around sixty years starting with Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard and more than 38 games of Yoenis Cespedes. Marker correction (penultimate in NL in ERA) is another key. The offensive could be a surprise, especially if they do not rely on Jay Bruce and Todd Frazier to regain their youth. Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil have emerged as top OBP members at the top of the list and Amed Rosario has introduced some improvements. What they really need is another anchor: Something tells me that the Wilpons will not spend the money needed to bring Machado or Harper. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 82-79
World Series 2019 Score: 50-1

If you are looking for a surprise team in small groups, it may be the Pirates, even though they may be in the wrong division. They have a good base of strong young veterans, as well as interesting young people like the king of the soil, Trevor Williams (1.38 ERA in the second half). Chris Archer and Joe Musgrove add depth of rotation alongside Jameson Taillon. Pirates are strong at all levels – they just do not have that superstar to help them get to the next level. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 80-82
World Series 2019 Score: 18-1

The collapse of September brought to light weaknesses in a surprise season: the defense was the worst of the majors (and historically horrible); the pen had holes; and the back of the rotation was more "meh" than the playoffs. Really, without Aaron Nola, the Phillies were only another bad NL East team. They will have to rearrange the lounge chairs in one way or another. Rhys Hoskins should move to first base, but he is blocked by Carlos Santana. J.P. Crawford in good health should improve the anti-field defense. Of course, a big bat would help. I hear one or two others may be available in free agency. – Schoenfield

2018 eecord: 82-80
World Series 2019 Score: 60-1

Is there a more difficult baseball team to evaluate in 2019? The Diamondbacks played as a winning team of 90 or more victories for most of 2018, then collapsed in September with a record of 8-19 and finished just two games over .500. And this is not even the difficult part. Patrick Corbin has launched as ace and A.J. Pollock is one of the best baseball players in baseball when he is in good health. The two independent players will be very interested this winter. It is also possible that Paul Goldschmidt, Zack Greinke or both be treated before the opening day. If the D-backs guard Goldschmidt and Greinke, there will be enough to compete with the Rockies for second place in the west of the NL, but it is also quite possible that 2019 marks the beginning of a reconstruction in the desert.

Record 2018: 73-89
World Series 2019 Score: 60-1

What are the Blue Jays doing this season? I have no idea. They pay $ 40 million in 2019 for Russell Martin and Troy Tulowitzki. Josh Donaldson was traded and became a free agent. The rotation was supposed to be the strength of the team and finished 13th in the AL with an ERA of 5.14 as no starter was qualified for the ERA title. Of course, there is a potential for a rebound with Aaron Sanchez and Marcus Stroman and maybe Vladimir Guerrero Jr. rises and destroys baseball from the start. Otherwise: good luck to beat the Red Sox and the Yankees. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 67-95
World Series 2019 Score: 100-1

The Reds had the most points abroad and were just in the middle of the scoring – in other words, there are problems at all levels here. The pitcher is the perennial problem since their three appearances in the playoffs from 2010 to 2013 and four consecutive seasons of 90 losses. The bandbox park does not help because it has had the greatest number of home runs in the last three seasons. Did I mention that they were still paying $ 23 million to Homer Bailey in 2019? – Schoenfield

2018 ecord: 89-73
World Series 2019 Score: 50-1

Of the teams that finished above .500, no team is more mature for a fall than the Mariners. Despite 89 wins, they were overtaken by 34 points; a 36-21 record in one-point games saved their season. The composition was the oldest of the LA. The rotation was not great, but at least it was healthy: five starters made at least 27 starts. But it will be difficult to improve on the sidelines of MLB's worst farming system and little room for maneuver in the payroll (Felix Hernandez will win $ 27 million in his last season). – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 62-100
World Series 2019 Score: 60-1

It was a really ugly season for a Sox team that had already cashed almost all of its veteran assets for prospects. The big question this winter is where they think they are rebuilding themselves. Even with Eloy Jimenez up, it may not be his last season of 100 losses. Yoan Moncada and Tim Anderson, the young midfielder combo, and their young pitcher have not shown so much progress. Going to arbitration with first baseman Jose Abreu makes sense in his last year as a free agent, but after his 2018 season in arrears, does he deserve a contract extension? Avisail Garcia 2018 was a struggle; could it trigger a decision not to call for bids until its last year of club control? – Kahrl

Record 2018: 67-95
World Series 2019 Score: 100-1

What happened to the Rangers? After consecutive playoff trips in 2015 and 2016, they went from 95 wins to 78 wins to 67 victories. Even worse, they were not even that interesting, unless you liked Joey Gallo's prodigious combination of home run and ball dropouts. Rougned Odor and Nomar Mazara can still be transformed into fundamental devices, but they produced below-average OPS figures (odors were much better in the second half). Adrian Beltre is a free agent and can retire. Launcher staff? Bartolo Colon, 45, was second in the team in shots, which is not a good sign for 2019. – Schoenfield

Record 2018: 64-98
World Series 2019 Score: 200-1

The Tigers may not have lost 100 games, but they may be worse off than the Royals or the White Sox because of the lack of high talent at the very least. Beyond the retreat of DH Victor Martinez, the Tigers will have to find a new stopover if they do not want to bring back Jose Iglesias as a free agent. There is no obvious reason to try to keep veteran southpaw Francisco Liriano. After finding a new position for Nicholas Castellanos, who hits hard but light, their biggest decision could be to decide to move him from the ground to first base or the DH – according to that Miguel Cabrera does not want to play in the next six years to come on his deal. Assuming they do not buy Castellanos, but with a year to go before release and no position, his market is limited. – Kahrl

Record 2018: 66-96
World Series 2019 Score: 100-1

For all those waiting for this group of super-leads to take the Padres down the rankings, here's a tip: get ready to wait. While Hunter Renfroe and Franmil Reyes added something to the training in 2018, there are still many holes to be filled for a team that has posted the worst OBP in NL. Eric Hosmer's contract remains a headache after the $ 144 million San Diego man posted a .253 / .322 / .398 slash line in his first season with a contract of eight years. Joey Lucchesi and Eric Lauer bring a glimmer of hope into the pitching machine's rotation, Chris Paddack could join at some point in 2019, but the wave of high hopes led by Fernando Tatis Jr. should have an impact in 2020. and beyond. – Mullen

Record 2018: 73-89
World Series 2019 Score: 100-1

The Giants doubled the number of players in their 30s in 2018 and if it was not a total disaster – the team was .500 before collapsing with a 5-21 record in September – it is difficult to envision a scenario in which the club improves. Johnny Cueto was operated on by Tommy John and Jeff Samardzija did not launch in the second half after problems at the shoulder. The formation was the oldest in NL. – and the penultimate point has been scored – and the farming system has no one ready to step in. The payroll was already inflated in 2018, but maybe it can start money paid to Hunter Pence and Andrew McCutchen to take it to an independent player. I'm sure Harper would love to hit AT & T Park.

Record 2018: 58-104
World Series 2019 Score: 200-1

The champions of 2015 have bottomed out, but have provided some glimmers of hope. Adalberto Mondesi broke in the second half, starting a .835 record and totaling 11 homers in 54 games. The remarkable performances of Jakob Junis and Brad Keller after the break make it possible to rely on the rotation. Financially, the Royals could go shopping if they wanted it. Nearly half of their payroll is tied to Ian Kennedy and Alex Gordon, who have no commercial value. Buying their option on Jason Hammel for $ 2 million could be their biggest elective decision.

To exchange younger talents, Danny Duffy is perhaps their best asset, but he will be 30 years old and has not yet passed. There is also second baseman Whit Merrifield, who is really Zobristian in his flexibility and who is four years under the control of the club, but at 29, he is not likely to bring a big reward in return. – Kahrl