5 bold predictions for spring training
In about a week's time, spring training will start to feel like an endless slog, but that doesn't mean exciting things don't happen in March, as anonymous players participate in meaningless games down in Florida and Arizona. With Grapefruit and Cactus League action just about to get underway, here are five bold predictions for spring training:
Eric Gagne signs minor-league deal
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2003 NL Cy Young winner Eric Gagne hasn't pitched in the majors since 2008, but the 41-year-old is pondering a comeback after he was named to Team Canada in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Gagne's fastball was recently clocked in the 90s and Dodgers legend Orel Hershiser said the right-hander could "pitch in the big leagues right now," which should be enough for an organization to at least offer him a minor-league deal, especially if he performs well in the WBC. - Mcwilliam
Reds unload Votto
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A couple weeks ago, after reportedly having three potential trades vetoed by their obstinate second baseman in the previous 15 months, the rebuilding Reds finally managed to unload Brandon Phillips, essentially eating all the money left on his contract just to get rid of the 35-year-old. With their roster almost completely devoid of veterans, their focus will shift to moving Joey Votto, the 33-year-old first baseman who has far more trade value than Phillips but won't be any easier to move. Like Phillips, Votto has a no-trade clause - he's also expressed his desire to stay in Cincinnati - and the former MVP is guaranteed another $179 million through 2023, too. Still, the Reds recognize it's time to part ways with Votto, and they'll eat quite a bit of the money left on his megadeal to send him to a contender and bolster their farm system before Opening Day. - Birenbaum
Tebow homers in spring game with Mets
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Tim Tebow didn't receive a full invitation to the Mets' major-league spring training camp, but general manager Sandy Alderson said the former Heisman Trophy winner is expected to get some game action with the big club. Both Alderson and skipper Terry Collins have been highly supportive of Tebow and he'll reward their faith by going deep at least once this spring off a big-league pitcher. It's almost a guarantee that he'll strike out more than he makes contact, but expect the 29-year-old to connect on at least one. - Wile
Nationals trade for David Robertson
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Big trades during spring training are rare, but the Washington Nationals are ready to present an exception. The club desperately lacks a reliable ninth-inning option and has been searching for an upgrade all offseason. Look no further than Chicago White Sox right-hander David Robertson, who has been linked to the Nationals on and off in trade talks. The teams are no stranger to making big deals with each other, as Chicago previously sent Adam Eaton to Washington for an enormous return. With the White Sox looking to continue their rebuild and the Nats' need for a closer, a trade should materialize. - Casaletto
Brewers ship Braun to Texas
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How Ryan Braun is still in Milwaukee is anyone's guess. With the team acknowledging it's rebuilding, the 33-year-old and his $19-million salary are still on the team's books for next season - but the real predicament arrives May 24, when the outfielder's 10-and-5 rights kick in and he can reject any trade. Milwaukee can't afford to let the situation continue into the season. Meanwhile, the Rangers' outfield is still weak and they need to show impending free agents like Yu Darvish that they intend to keep contending. Texas will swing a deal with an eager Milwaukee to land Braun for a low price. - Soveta