SAN DIEGO, CA – Okay, the world has been shaken repeatedly during this Major League Baseball season. This MLB Hot Stove League has seen tons of cash dropping in seismic fashion across different geographical locales. From sunny San Diego to the cold and wet boroughs of NYC, to the historic streets of the City of Brotherly Love and earthquake-savvy San Fran, it’s been daunting. But how has done the best so far?
SAN FRANCISCO
They’re used to seismic activity, that’s for sure. But did their front office shake up the roster enough to excite their fan base? The lost out on Aaron Judge and had insult added to injury, as they watched their best pitcher go to the Stanks Yanks. The 13-year deal Carlos Correa got can’t be their only big move to compete with Dodgers and Pads. They may be in for a long season.
YANKEES
The Bronx Bombers showed they have a pulse. They retained their stud Judge with a cumbersome 9-year deal and got Frisco’s Carlos Rodon for a relative bargain. Their pitching, especially if Montas is healthy, is now formidable. But offensively, they are still suspect – or more obsessed with acute homer-itis. They have more needs.
PHILADELPHIA
The phuckin’ Phils are impressive. They went to World Series to shock of all of us so-called experts. Now they’ve added one of the best 5-tool players in baseball in Trea Turner. Why did Turner – a guy whose name rhymes with Shea – choose a city that got Kate Upton to flip their fans the bird? Because his wife is South Jersey. Well done Philly.
METS
Brining back Brandon Nimmo was a smart move. So was bringing back Edwin Diaz. Did the team improve on last year’s roster, though? It sure looks that way on the pitching side of things. Kodai Senga, José Quintana, David Robertson, Brooks Raley and that Kate Upton’s husband will have Mets fans giddy, particularly when Jacob deGreed is on the IL twice in 2023.
These are the teams that caught my eye. Which teams caught yours and who spent wisely and who improved the most?