Why the Angels are poised for a playoff run in 2018

The road to October won’t necessarily be easier for the Angels this season, but thanks to several key additions they are better equipped to traverse it.

The road to October won’t necessarily be easier for the Angels this season, but thanks to several key additions they are better equipped to traverse it.

Why the Phillies could make a surprising playoff run in 2018

The Phillies finished 31 games behind the Nationals in 2017 and 21 games from a wild-card spot, but thanks to an infusion of young talent on offense and a dramatically weakened division in the NL East, there’s a path for Philadelphia to claim a wild-…

The Phillies finished 31 games behind the Nationals in 2017 and 21 games from a wild-card spot, but thanks to an infusion of young talent on offense and a dramatically weakened division in the NL East, there’s a path for Philadelphia to claim a wild-card spot this October.

Predicting surprise: Young players who could shine for Dodgers, Indians in 2018

In Los Angeles, Alex Verdugo might just squeeze his way into a crowded outfield, and in Cleveland, Francisco Mejia is going to catch some attention, even if he has to learn a new position to do it.

In Los Angeles, Alex Verdugo might just squeeze his way into a crowded outfield, and in Cleveland, Francisco Mejia is going to catch some attention, even if he has to learn a new position to do it.

Predicting surprise: Young players who could shine for Nationals, Astros in 2018

The Nationals and Astros both made the postseason in 2017, but they finished in very different ways. These two teams already have the core roster elements necessary to make return trips, but they will also have to ride the success of the likes of Wilme…

The Nationals and Astros both made the postseason in 2017, but they finished in very different ways. These two teams already have the core roster elements necessary to make return trips, but they will also have to ride the success of the likes of Wilmer Difo and Chris Devenski, who both stepped into larger roles in 2017 and hope to keep those this year.

MLB 2018: White Sox rely on family culture as rebuild reaches next phase

General manager Rich Hahn, slugger Jose Abreu and others say a culture of camaraderie is important as the White Sox prepare to navigate the challenges of bringing up more of their cadre of blue-chip players.

General manager Rich Hahn, slugger Jose Abreu and others say a culture of camaraderie is important as the White Sox prepare to navigate the challenges of bringing up more of their cadre of blue-chip players.

Predicting surprise: Young players who could shine for Cubs, Red Sox in 2018

In Chicago, the Cubs have a relief pitcher in Dillon Maples who might light up the National League if he can improve his command. In Boston, the Red Sox have a third baseman in Rafael Devers who could help anchor the offense if they’re willing to ove…

In Chicago, the Cubs have a relief pitcher in Dillon Maples who might light up the National League if he can improve his command. In Boston, the Red Sox have a third baseman in Rafael Devers who could help anchor the offense if they’re willing to overlook his suspect defense.

MLB trade rumors: Marlins’ big trade with Brewers finally gives Miami a win

The deal Miami struck with Milwaukee brings a group of legit prospects and gives their beleaguered fanbase something, however small, to cheer.

The deal Miami struck with Milwaukee brings a group of legit prospects and gives their beleaguered fanbase something, however small, to cheer.

Predicting surprise: Young players who could shine for Diamondbacks, Yankees in 2018

The Diamondbacks have a tough climb to surpass the Dodgers in their division, but they might have a surprise in Christian Walker if he can master a new position. In New York, meanwhile, Gleyber Torres has been a heralded prospect for several years, but…

The Diamondbacks have a tough climb to surpass the Dodgers in their division, but they might have a surprise in Christian Walker if he can master a new position. In New York, meanwhile, Gleyber Torres has been a heralded prospect for several years, but this season he makes the leap to the majors.

Predicting surprise: Young players who could shine for Rockies, Twins in 2018

In Colorado, they have a speedy outfielder who is ready to take a full-time role. And in Minnesota, they have a young pitcher who already has important experience under his belt.

In Colorado, they have a speedy outfielder who is ready to take a full-time role. And in Minnesota, they have a young pitcher who already has important experience under his belt.