As we turn our attention away from the World Series to MLB Free Agency, let’s take a look at the biggest holes facing each team heading into 2018.
With an exciting 2017 season in the books, we can finally catch our breath during the off-season. Just kidding, no we can’t. In fact, you fellow hardcore baseball fans know that the new season, also known as MLB Free Agency, is beginning. In some ways, it can be just as stressful as the 162-game grind of the regular season.
Even the World Series champion Houston Astros have some things to tweak for the upcoming campaign. When I find those weaknesses I will let you know.
Before we break-down each MLB team with our fancy analytic technology, let’s take a look at the game of baseball as a whole. Let me name a few of the general holes that, in my opinion, are facing Major League Baseball.
- The game itself needs to speed up, with a nine-inning game dragging on for up to four to five hours at times. A part of the time problem is the dead time between each pitch. Speed it up, Commissioner Rob Manfred.
- Speaking of the Commish, he needs to look himself in the mirror and grow a pair. His neglect in suspending Yuli Gurriel for the final few games of the World Series for his racist actions is a flat out disgrace. Even the man at the top has to have accountability.
- Ticket prices, concessions, and parking; a ballpark experience is just way too expensive, especially for your average family. Seeing all those empty seats at many ballparks speaks volumes on that very problem.
- Only 13 out of the 30 teams had a winning record, with no balance within the MLB. Four teams won over 100 games, with eight losing 90 or more.
- Home runs are at an all-time high, with a record amount hit last season. That is good for the game and exciting, but a 13-12 World Series final score is just too much. Is Dallas Keuchel onto something? Are the balls juiced?
Even with these significant holes, the MLB is on the rise. Having superstars such as Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Clayton Kershaw, and Jose Altuve to name a few, shows that the game is in great hands for years to come.
With the popularity of the World Baseball Classic, the game of baseball is more than just America’s pastime. It’s a worldwide phenomenon.
Now, after an epic World Series that went the distance, the game just keeps building more and more momentum. That said, we still have work to do in getting the game where it needs to be in 2018 and beyond.
Let’s take a look at each team and things they need to improve on to move up in the standings or maintain their presence on their respective throne. Here are the most significant needs and wants featuring each MLB roster.