MLB tiers: Ranking baseball's best starting pitchers
Even with the rise of new tactics like the opener, old-school aces are leading the way.
2019 ScheduleAll times ET
@ Tigers
vs Pirates
@ Rays
Spring Training
2019 Schedule
BBTN: Machado's Deal, Harper's Worth, Hembo Knows, Newcombe
Buster talks to Bleacher Report's Scott Miller about Manny Machado's deal with the Padres, the ripple effect it will have and much more (8:23). Plus, "Hembo Knows" (24:48), Laura Armstrong with some "Inside Heat" on the Blue Jays (31:55) and remembering the life of the great Don Newcombe (44:31).
Possible ripple effects of Machado's deal for Bryce and baseball
Not only could Manny Machado's $300 million pact increase the price tag for Bryce Harper, it also could lead to even heftier free-agent hauls for Mookie Betts and Mike Trout in two years.
Marly Rivera ESPN Writer
I've spoken to quite a few players in the Phillies and Jays camps today after news broke of the Manny Machado signing. The general consensus was that they were elated. One veteran told me: "So glad he got paid! We're the ones who leave it all on the field, and the owners and the league make all the money. We should share!" Not ONE OF THEM mentioned anything about Machado not hustling or being a bad guy. That speaks volumes.
Which starters will earn their ace cards in 2019?
After providing a taste of what they can do last season, these pitchers are ready to take their place among MLB's elite.
MLB tiers: Ranking baseball's best outfielders
Starting with baseball's reigning best player, out on the grass is where you find the stars to build contenders around.
Why each remaining suitor will (or won't) sign Harper, Machado
As rumors swirl for both superstar free agents, we examine each team believed to be interested.
Inside Heat: Lauber On Philly's Push For Big Free Agents
Buster Olney talks to Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer about the Phillies' plans to land a big-name free agent at some point this spring.
BBTN: Unsigned Stars, Spring Training Underway
Buster & Tim Kurkjian discuss the waiting game with Harper, Machado and other big stars, what it means for labor peace and much more (6:48). Plus, Mark Teixeira shares his Spring Training perspective (26:50), Scott Lauber brings some "Inside Heat" on the Phillies (39:29), and Buster talks to CC Sabathia about his farewell season (43:28).
Marly Rivera ESPN Writer
Is today the day?
Olney: If Bryce or Manny go to Philly, they'd better get dirty
There's one thing Philadelphia wants from stars, and if either of baseball's top free agents sign there, they'd better deliver.
Phils' MacPhail on FA chase: Goal is to win now
Phillies president Andy MacPhail, who continues to size up free agents such as Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, says "all of our ownership group wants to win."
MLB tiers: Ranking baseball's best shortstops
Looking for some of the game's brightest up-and-coming stars? You're at the right place.
Passan: The Bryce, Manny stalemate and the latest on MLB free agency
Three and a half months after the pursuit started, here's where things stand with Bryce Harper, Manny Machado and their suitors. Plus, updates on Craig Kimbrel, Nolan Arenado and other stars seeking paydays.
Nola, with new $45M deal, 'here to win' in Philly
Aaron Nola hopes to win titles with the Phillies, and a four-year, $45 million contract will give him a chance.
Sleeper prospects who could impact each MLB team
These under-the-radar players could open some eyes during spring training and make some noise in the majors before the year is out.
Marly Rivera ESPN Writer
VIDEO – Phillies GM Matt Klentak on Bryce Harper and Many Machado: "There's a lot of people that are curious what's gonna happen, where are these guys gonna go, how much money they're going to make, I too, I'm curious to know the answers..."
Marly Rivera ESPN Writer
VIDEO: Aaron Nola refuses to address whether the tough free agent market was a consideration for him signing a four-year deal with the Phillies: "This felt right for me at this time."
Phils' Arrieta 'right on track' after knee surgery
Phillies manager Gabe Kapler said Wednesday that starter Jake Arrieta recently underwent surgery after injuring his left knee while weight training. Arrieta should be ready for the start of the regular season, or shortly thereafter, Kapler said.
MLB tiers: Ranking baseball's best first basemen
The slugging first baseman has become an endangered species, but there's still some pop at the top of our list.
Phillies, RHP Nola agree to 4-year extension
Aaron Nola, who won a career-best 17 games and had a 2.37 ERA last season, has agreed to a four-year, $45 million extension with the Phillies that includes a club option for a fifth season.
Passan: Phillies begin Realmuto era with Harper, Machado still in play
The catcher couldn't wait to get to spring training, and his new team couldn't wait to have him. Now the question is if an even bigger name will sign on to complete one of MLB's most intriguing makeovers.
William Weinbaum ESPN
Lincoln's B'day trivia - according to Baseball-Reference.com - 3 MLB players had "Abraham Lincoln" as their given name: P "Sweetbread" Bailey (1919-21 Cubs/‘21 Dodgers), OF "Ham" Wade (‘07 Giants) & C/OF Abe Wolstenholme (1883 Phi.)
MLB catcher tiers: Ranking baseball's best backstops
We start our position-by-position tiers at catcher, where franchise performers aren't exactly easy to come by in 2019.
Are Phillies the favorites in NL East? (0:53)
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Grapefruit League Standings
| TEAM | W | L | PCT | GB | STRK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Boston | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Detroit | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Minnesota | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| New York | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Toronto | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Atlanta | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Houston | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Washington | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| New York | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Philadelphia | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Pittsburgh | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| St. Louis | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Miami | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
| Tampa Bay | 0 | 0 | .000 | - | - |
Team Stats
- Batting
- Pitching
Runs677Tied-21st
Batting Average.23430th
On Base Percentage.31419th
Slugging Percentage.39323rd
Earned Run Average4.1418th
Quality Starts86Tied-8th
WHIP1.2914th
BAA.24916th