Hope in Beantown

[OmahaBaseball]

Braves Stay Alive With Extra-Inning Win in World Series Game 4

Boston, MA — The Atlanta Braves refused to let their season end Monday night at Fenway Park, riding late power and steady bullpen work to a 6–4, 10-inning victory over the Boston Red Sox in Game 4 of the 2024 World Series.

Matt Olson delivered the decisive blow, crushing a two-out solo home run in the top of the 10th inning to snap a 4–4 tie and silence the Fenway crowd of 37,065. Austin Riley followed moments later with another long ball, giving Atlanta breathing room and keeping the series alive. “Businesslike,” Braves manager Brian Snitker called his club’s approach afterward, and it showed. Atlanta matched Boston with 11 hits and committed no errors, erasing multiple deficits before finally pulling away in extras.

Boston struck first in the opening inning when Tyler O’Neill launched a solo homer off Braves starter Chris Sale; Game Score 47. The Red Sox added runs in the third and seventh innings, briefly taking control behind strong pitching from Logan Gilbert, who went seven innings and struck out eight; Game Score 51. But Atlanta answered at every turn. Ozzie Albies drove in two runs with a fifth-inning double, and Olson—named Player of the Game—finished 2 for 4 with a triple, a home run and two runs scored.

The Braves’ bullpen combined for 3⅓ shutout innings after Sale exited, with Pierce Johnson (2-3) earning the win while Raisel Iglesias (SV 3) worked a scoreless bottom of the 10th to earn the save. Closer Liam Hendriks (1-1) took the loss for Boston after surrendering two home runs in the decisive inning. The series continues Tuesday night at Fenway Park, where the Braves will look to build on the momentum, while the Red Sox will try once more to close the door on Atlanta’s comeback bid.

Player of the Game: Matt Olson

World Series: Leads 3-1

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Braves Edge Red Sox in 10 to Tighten World Series

Boston, MA — The Atlanta Braves refused to let the World Series slip away Tuesday night, grinding out a 3–2 extra-inning victory over the Boston Red Sox at a chilly Fenway Park. With the win, the Fall Classic heads back south with renewed drama for a Game 6 match-up at Truist Park. Ronald Acuña Jr. delivered the decisive blow in the top of the 10th inning, lining a two-out single that plated the go-ahead run that silenced the crowd of 37,186 fans. While it was Acuña’s lone hit of the night, it proved to be the difference in a pitching-heavy contest that stretched past four hours.

The night belonged to the starting pitchers for much of the evening. Braves ace Spencer Strider matched Boston right-hander Tanner Houck pitch for pitch. Strider went seven strong innings, allowing two runs while striking out nine; Game Score 64. Houck was even stingier, scattering two hits and one run over seven innings, fanning eight and keeping Atlanta’s powerful lineup largely in check; Game Score 76. Boston struck first in the third inning when Jarren Duran ripped a two-run double into the gap, giving the Red Sox a 2–0 lead. Atlanta responded with solo home runs from Marcell Ozuna in the fifth and an eighth-inning run to knot the score. Boston wasted a 4 for 5 (Double) performance from Marcelo Mayer.

The bullpens took over from there. Braves reliever A.J. Minter (1-0) earned the win with 2 2/3 scoreless innings, and Raisel Iglesias (SV 4) slammed the door in the bottom of the 10th for the save. Boston’s Brayan Bello (BS 3) struggled again, and called-upon closer Nick Pivetta (0-1) was tagged with the loss after allowing the decisive run in extra frames. With the momentum swinging and the series shifting to Atlanta, the Red Sox will try to regroup quickly. The Braves, meanwhile, head home believing the World Series has turned and that the pressure has finally changed sides.

Player of the Game: Tanner Houck (Season: #15)

World Series: Leads 3-2

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Red Sox Clinch 10th World Series Title in Hard-Fought Victory Over Braves

Atlanta, GA – In what was a magical playoff run, the Boston Red Sox players found themselves celebrating on Truist Park field after defeating the Atlanta Braves by a 3 to 1 score to capture their 10th World Series championship in franchise history.

The night's victory was anchored by a masterful performance from Boston starter Kutter Crawford (2-2), who was named Player of the Game after tossing 8 dominant innings in which he surrendered only one run on six hits, striking out five batters on 100 total pitches; Game Score 69. Closer Liam Hendriks (SV 7) entered in the ninth to shut the door to officially start the party in Boston. Braves' starter Reynaldo Lopez (2-1) was tagged with the loss after allowing 3 earned runs on 2 hits, 4 walks, and 2 hit batsmen in 5 innings of work; Game Score 54.

While offense was limited, with both teams struggling to put the ball in play, there were a few notable performances that warrant mention. For Boston, Tristan Casas (1 for 4, Homerun) and Rafael Devers (1 for 4, Homerun) each had solo-shots, while Tommy Edman went 1 for 3 with an RBI Double. The Braves were powered by Matt Olson (2 for 4, RBI) and Ronald Acuna Jr. (1 for 2, Run, Walk, 2 Stolen Bases).

In a jubilant clubhouse following the trophy presentation, series MVP Marcelo Mayer (.346 Average / 9 for 26, with 5 Runs, 3 Doubles, Triple, 2 Homeruns, 2 Walks, and a Stolen Base) reflected on the city's support. "I am so happy for our city right now. We have great fans that deserve this". The championship caps off a rather surprising playoff run that saw the Red Sox sneak into the postseason on the final week of the season. With this 10th title, the 2024 Red Sox join the legendary ranks of the 1903, 1912, 1915, 1916, 1918, 2004, 2007, 2013, and 2018 championship teams.

Player of the Game: Kutter Crawford (Season: #16)

World Series: Wins Series 4-2

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2024 Playoff Recap

What a 2024 Post-Season run for the Boston Red Sox. After just making the playoffs in the final week of the season (I legitimately thought the team was going to tank at the end), Boston went on a run in which they won 13 of 17 games to take home the franchise's 10th championship.

A few things to note from the playoff run. First, I started the same 9 positional players each game, and took away any pinch-hitting or pinch-running opportunities. I was not liking how the bench was being handled by the game's AI, and often seemed to lead to ineffective play. This did not turn out well for Ceddanne Rafaela (.574 OPS), Masataka Yoshida (.636 OPS), or Kyle Teel (.669 OPS), but did seem to spark Tristan Casas (.911 OPS), Rafael Devers (.939 OPS), and Jarren Duran (.969 OPS). While it is hard to argue with the outcome, I am not sure I would follow this same approach in the future.

Next, I benched 2B Vaughn Grissom and started Tommy Edman. While Edman struggled at the plate during the regular season (.544 OPS; -1.6 WAR), Grissom's defense (-19.1 ZR; .863 EFF) was bad and he also wasn't putting the ball in play (.619 OPS; -1.4 WAR). Edman's playoff numbers at the plate were more than I would have hoped for (.860 OPS), and he did not commit an error in 17 games. I am not convinced that either player has a spot on the 2025 team, so I will likely be active in tweaking the infield.

For the rotation, I went 4 pitchers and sent Brayan Bello to the bullpen. While the 4-man rotation worked well (combined record of 10-2), Bello was not impressive and had 3 blown saves and a 5.68 ERA. I am not sure where he will fit into the 2025 pitching staff. I was happy to see closer Liam Hendriks bounce back from his late-season woes, as he secured 7 saves during the playoff run, and posted a 13-1 K/BB rate.

Lastly, I am still rather surprised how the season turned out. While I figured the team would be competitive and perhaps make a playoff push, I did not see winning a playoff round or ultimately taking home the World Series trophy. Because I sim each game, I cannot take credit for any in-game decision and however the game unfolds is what it is. How and why I won it all will remain a mystery...

[OmahaBaseball]

...

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Williams Moved in Shocking Trade

On the first day of the MLB off-season, the New York Yankees shocked the baseball world by landing All-Star closer Devin Williams in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. Coming off a season that will likely see Williams earn his 3rd career Reliever of the Year award, the Brewers are giving up a lot to make the transition to a young team.

New York Yankees receive:

Devin Williams (30-year old CL)
Drafted in 2nd round, 15th pick (54th overall) by the Milwaukee Brewers (2013)
NL All-Star (2022, 2024); NL Reliever of the Year (2020, 2023); NL Rookie of the Year (2020)
  6-2 W/L record with 45 SV,  91 K,  23 BB, and 2.45 ERA for 2.4 WAR in  66 IP (MLB / 2024)
32-12 W/L record with 99 SV, 428 K, 124 BB, and 2.02 ERA for 7.7 WAR in 280 IP (MLB / 6 seasons)

Milwaukee Brewers receive:

T. J. Rumfield (24-year old 1B)
Drafted in 12th round, 13th pick (355th overall) by the Philadelphia Phillies (2021)
.207/.315/.467 with 3 2B, 0 3B, 7 HR, 14 R, 13 RBI for 0.0 WAR in 108 PA (AA, AAA / 2024)
.238/.346/.408 with 33 2B, 0 3B, 28 HR, 99 R, 113 RBI for 1.1 WAR in 818 PA (R, A, A+, AA, AAA / 4 seasons)

Francisco Vilorio (18-year old CF)
International Free Agent signed by the New York Yankees (2023)
.234/.421/.449 with 9 2B, 4 3B, 9 HR, 39 R, 32 RBI for 2.3 WAR in 271 PA (R / 2024 / 1 Season)

Jack Neely (24-year old CL)
Drafted in 11th round, 21st pick (333rd overall) by the New York Yankees (2021)
Eastern League All-Star (2024)
  3-8 W/L record with 26 SV,  66 K, 17 BB, and 3.10 ERA for 2.5 WAR in  69.2 IP (AA / 2024)
13-14 W/L record with 40 SV, 258 K, 63 BB, and 2.87 ERA for 5.0 WAR in 188.1 IP (A, A+, AA / 4 seasons)

2nd Round Draft Pick (slot TBD)

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Baseball’s Future Takes Center Stage: Top 10 Prospects to Watch

Now that the season has wrapped up, attention across baseball is already shifting toward what comes next. Every winter brings hope, but nothing fuels optimism quite like a new wave of elite prospects ready to shape the league’s future. Here’s a look at the brightest young stars on the rise, headlined by a new No. 1 overall prospect.

Topping the list is Travis Bazzana, the 22-year-old second baseman in the Oakland Athletics organization. Bazzana has separated himself with a rare blend of hit tool, plate discipline, and defensive polish at a premium position. The rest of the top 10 reflects both balance and upside. Catcher Samuel Basallo (Orioles) brings middle-of-the-order power at just 20 years old, while pitchers dominate the next tier, led by flame-throwing right-handers Andrew Painter (Phillies), Rhett Lowder (Reds), and Chase Burns (Red Sox). Each projects as a future rotation anchor, with ace-level ceilings.

Athleticism shines in the outfield with Dylan Crews (Nationals) and Jonatan Clase (Mariners), both dynamic center fielders capable of impacting the game on both sides of the ball. In the infield, Termarr Johnson (Pirates) and Carson Williams (Rays) offer contrasting styles — Johnson’s offensive upside versus Williams’ elite defense at shortstop. Rounding out the list is Lazaro Montes (Mariners), a powerful left fielder whose bat could be special if it fully clicks.

[OmahaBaseball]

American League Gold Gloves Honor Defensive Excellence

Defense took center stage across the American League as the 2024 Gold Glove Awards were announced, celebrating the game’s premier fielders at each position. Long considered the gold standard for defensive excellence, the Awards recognize players whose glove work consistently set them apart from their peers.

On the mound, Framber Valdez (1.000 PCT, 3.1 ZR, 1.057 EFF) of the Houston Astros was honored for his fielding prowess, while Jake Rogers (.999 PCT, 2.8 ZR, 1.114 EFF) of the Detroit Tigers earned the nod behind the plate for his pitch framing and control of the running game. The infield featured Triston Casas (.997 PCT, 5.0 ZR, 1.030 EFF) of the Boston Red Sox at first base, Andrés Giménez (.991 PCT, 10.0 ZR, 1.066 EFF) of the Cleveland Guardians at second, Josh Rojas (.973 PCT, 6.4 ZR, 1.042 EFF) of the Seattle Mariners at third, and Bobby Witt Jr. (.977 PCT, 15.4 ZR, 1.058 EFF) of the Kansas City Royals at shortstop.

The outfield awards went to Kansas City Royals left fielder Dairon Blanco (.996 PCT, 8.5 ZR, 1.032 EFF), Texas Rangers center fielder Leody Taveras (.989 PCT, 15.3 ZR, 1.044 EFF), and Houston Astros right fielder Kyle Tucker (.994 PCT, 14.8 ZR, 1.071 EFF); a trio known for speed, strong arms and highlight-reel catches. Together, the 2024 American League Gold Glove winners represent the very best in run prevention, turning defense into an art form and reinforcing its vital role in championship-caliber baseball.

[OmahaBaseball]

National League Gold Glove Winners Flash the Leather in 2024

Defense took center stage across the National League in 2024, and these standouts were rewarded for turning would-be hits into outs and saving runs all season long. From the mound to the outfield corners, this year’s Gold Glove Award winners set the standard for excellence with steady hands, sharp instincts, and highlight-reel plays.

Miami Marlins left-hander Ryan Weathers (.952 PCT, 3.4 ZR, 1.002 EFF) earned top honors among pitchers, combining athleticism and quick reactions to handle his position with ease. Behind the plate, J.T. Realmuto (.999 PCT, 4.5 ZR, 1.139 EFF) of the Phillies continued to define elite catching, shutting down baserunners and expertly guiding his pitching staff. This marks the 3rd time in his career that Realmuto has earned this honor.

The infield featured a mix of power and polish, led by Atlanta Braves slugger Matt Olson (.997 PCT, 7.3 ZR, 1.072 EFF) who anchored first base with soft hands and reliable scoops for his 3rd career fielding award, while Xander Bogaerts (.987 PCT, 14.4 ZR, 1.067 EFF) picked up his 4th career Gold Glove award by showcasing tremendous range and consistency at second for the San Diego Padres. At third, perennial standout Nolan Arenado (.964 PCT, 6.4 ZR, 1.042 EFF) once again dazzled St. Louis fans with his quick reflexes and arm strength to earn his 11th career fielding honor, while Ezequiel Tovar (.987 PCT, 17.1 ZR, 1.107 EFF) emerged as a defensive force at shortstop for the Colorado Rockies.

The outfield was equally electric, as Brandon Nimmo (.982 PCT, 12.4 ZR, 1.071 EFF) patrolled left for the New York Mets, while Brenton Doyle (.993 PCT, 17.9 ZR, 1.075 EFF) covered acres in center for the Rockies to earn his 2nd career Gold Glove award. Arizona Diamondbacks superstar Corbin Carroll (.989 PCT, 11.7 ZR, 1.061 EFF) brought speed and sure-handed defense to the right field position. Together, these nine players embodied the Gold Glove tradition; defensive excellence that changes games one play at a time.

[OmahaBaseball]

American League’s Best Bats Shine in 2024 Silver Slugger Awards

The American League’s most dangerous hitters were honored today as the 2024 Silver Slugger Awards were announced, celebrating the top offensive performer at each position. From record-setting power to all-around excellence, this year’s winners powered lineups across the league and defined the season with thunderous swings and timely production.

Behind the plate, Yainer Díaz of the Houston Astros earned the Silver Slugger after smashing 23 home runs while posting a .467 slugging percentage over 475 at-bats to contribute to his team's offense from a traditionally defense-first position. At first base, Eloy Jiménez of the Chicago White Sox delivered a resurgent power campaign, driving in 105 runs and launching 33 home runs to finish with a .497 slugging percentage. Baltimore rookie Jackson Holliday claimed the award for second base after finishing with a .281 batting average and a strong .363 on-base percentage, while adding 18 stolen bases and posting a 118 wRC+. The hot corner belonged to Rafael Devers of the Boston Red Sox, who blasted 36 home runs, drove in 111, and finished with a .541 slugging percentage. At shortstop, Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles delivered one of the most electric seasons in recent memory, as he .302 with 38 home runs and an eye-popping 36 stolen bases, scoring 116 runs and compiling a 9.1 WAR in a true MVP-caliber performance.

In left field, Daulton Varsho of the Toronto Blue Jays earned Silver Slugger honors by blending speed and power with 28 home runs, 43 stolen bases, and 109 runs scored. Center field was claimed by Julio Rodríguez of the Seattle Mariners who smashed the ball to the tune of a .282 average with 28 home runs, 39 stolen bases, and driving in 106 runs. On the right side, Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees reminded the baseball world of his unparalleled power. Judge crushed 50 home runs, scored 120 runs, and drove in another 120, pairing patience with brute force for a .570 slugging percentage. At designated hitter, Yordan Álvarez of the Houston Astros captured Silver Slugger honors after a dominant offensive season. Álvarez belted 51 home runs, drove in 137 runs, and posted a .596 slugging percentage, standing as one of the most feared hitters in the sport.

Together, the 2024 American League Silver Slugger winners represent the pinnacle of offensive excellence; players who didn’t just fill box scores, but reshaped games with every trip to the plate.

[OmahaBaseball]

Silver Sluggers Shine Across the National League

The smiles were wide across clubhouses today as Major League Baseball announced its 2024 NL Silver Slugger Award winners, honoring the game’s top offensive performers at each position. From power-hitting corner infielders to dynamic, do-it-all outfielders, this year’s NL class showcased a blend of consistency, explosiveness, and all-around production.

Behind the plate, William Contreras of the Milwaukee Brewers earned the honor after putting together a well-rounded season with a .295/.379/.479 slashline in 505 at-bats, belting 18 home runs while posting a 139 wRC+ and 4.8 WAR. At first base, Los Angeles Dodger star Freddie Freeman continued to define excellence with a .284 average, 30 home runs, and 120 runs scored across 651 at-bats in which he posted a 138 wRC+ and 5.3 WAR. The middle infield featured standout seasons from Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals at second base and Mookie Betts of the Dodgers at shortstop. Donovan hit .296 with 20 homers and a 134 wRC+, while Betts delivered an MVP-caliber offensive year, batting .297 with 27 home runs, 21 stolen bases, and an NL-best 8.4 WAR. At third base, Alec Bohm powered the Philadelphia Phillies’ offense, posting a .313 average and slugging .568 while driving in 116 runs with 32 home runs and 6.3 WAR.

The outfield was stacked with star power. Bryan Reynolds claimed the honor in left field for the Pittsburgh Pirates after a steady, well-rounded campaign that saw him post a .263/.340/.460 slashline with 25 home runs, 95 RBI, and 3.5 WAR. In center field, Michael Harris II of the Atlanta Braves blended speed and pop, finishing with 25 home runs, 30 stolen bases, and 129 wRC+. And in right field, Ronald Acuña Jr. delivered another historic season, batting .305 with 38 homers, an eye-popping 61 stolen bases, and 8.0 WAR for Atlanta. Rounding out the list at designated hitter was Adael Amador of the Colorado Rockies, who enjoyed a breakout offensive season in which he hit .316 with 25 home runs and 104 RBI over 678 at-bats.

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Caminero Claims AL Rookie of the Year Honors

Junior Caminero’s breakout season with the Tampa Bay Rays has earned him one of baseball’s most prestigious individual awards. Caminero was named the American League Rookie of the Year after a sensational 2024 campaign that firmly established the 21-year-old third baseman as one of the game’s rising stars.

In his first full major league season, Caminero combined power, consistency and run production to stand out in a crowded rookie field. The Rays newcomer finished the year with a .280/.313/.524 slashline, collecting 29 doubles, two triples, and 30 home runs, while driving in 98 runs, crossing the plate 72 times, and generating 3.5 WAR; providing Tampa Bay with a steady presence in the middle of the lineup throughout the season.

Caminero’s performance separated him from a strong group of finalists. Jackson Holliday (.281/.363/.416; 4.5 WAR) of the Baltimore Orioles placed second in the voting after an impressive rookie season of his own, while Jasson Dominguez (.260/.340/.447; 3.1 WAR) of the New York Yankees finished third.

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Amador’s Breakout Year Earns NL Rookie of the Year Honors

Denver, CO — Colorado Rockies second baseman Adael Amador capped a dazzling debut season by being named the National League Rookie of the Year for 2024, the league announced Tuesday.

Amador was the model of consistency from Opening Day through the season’s final weekend, anchoring the Rockies’ batting order from the DH spot and occasional second base play across 161 games. The 21-year-old hit .316, piling up 214 hits while showing a rare blend of power, patience and speed. He finished with 25 home runs, 104 RBI, 55 walks, and 121 runs scored; posting a .373 on-base percentage that placed him among the league’s most productive everyday players.

Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Paul Skenes (16-17 W/L, 290 K's, 261 IP, 5.1 WAR) finished second in the voting after an eye-catching first season that quickly established him as one of the league’s most formidable young arms. Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio (.267/.292/.480; 4.1 WAR) placed third, earning praise for his athleticism and two-way contributions in the outfield.

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Williams Thrives Under Pressure, Wins NL Reliever of the Year

Former Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams says he relishes the moments when everything is on the line, and in 2024 those moments defined his season. Williams was named the National League Reliever of the Year after a dominant campaign marked by poise, power, and consistency at the back end of the bullpen. This marks the 3rd time that Williams has earned this honor.

The Florissant, Missouri, native recorded 45 saves in 63 relief appearances, striking out 91 batters over 66 innings, while posting a 6–2 record, a 2.45 ERA, and 2.4 WAR; repeatedly shutting the door in high-leverage situations and swinging outcomes in his team’s favor. Paul Sewald (3-5 W/L, 36 SV, 2.29 ERA, 74.2 IP, 2.6 WAR) of the Arizona Diamondbacks finished second in the voting, while San Francisco Giants closer Camilo Doval (4-7 W/L, 32 SV, 2.19 ERA, 65.2 IP, 1.7 WAR) placed third.

[OmahaBaseball]

Hader Named AL Reliever of the Year

Josh Hader’s ability to thrive under pressure made him the American League’s most dependable bullpen arm in 2024, and it was rewarded with hardware. The veteran left-hander was named the American League Reliever of the Year, capping a season defined by consistency and late-inning excellence for the Houston Astros.

The 30-year-old out of Annapolis, Maryland converted 43 of his 45 save opportunities in 59 relief appearances, repeatedly slamming the door in tight games. Hader struck out 94 batters in 64.1 innings, relying on his overpowering fastball and sharp breaking pitches to post a 2–4 record, 2.10 ERA, and 1.7 WAR.

Seattle Mariners right-hander Andrés Muñoz (5-4 W/L, 28 SV, 87 K, 68.1 IP, 2.1 WAR) finished second in the voting after another strong season at the back of the bullpen, while Oakland Athletics fireballer Mason Miller (2-9 W/L, 42 SV, 99 K, 66.2 IP, 1.8 WAR) placed third.

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Nola Claims NL Cy Young Award

Aaron Nola’s consistency and durability atop the Philadelphia Phillies’ rotation earned him the National League Cy Young Award for the 2024 season. Nola dazzled all year, finishing with a 21–8 record in 33 starts while logging a league-leading 237 innings. He struck out 234 batters against just 40 walks, allowed 207 hits, and posted a 3.30 ERA, while holding opposing hitters to a .232 average. His steady excellence made him the backbone of the Phillies’ pitching staff and a dominant presence throughout the season.

San Diego Padres right-hander Michael King (17-8 W/L, 2.80 ERA, 227 K in 221.2 IP, 5.1 WAR) finished second in the Cy Young voting, while Phillies teammate Ranger Suárez (17-8 W/L, 2.85 ERA, 196 K in 227.1 IP, 4.8 WAR) placed third.

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Burnes Cy Young Award

Baltimore Orioles ace Corbin Burnes was named the American League Cy Young Award winner for the 2024 season, honoring his dominant performance atop the Orioles’ rotation. Burns logged 236 innings over 33 starts, posting an 18–9 record with a league-leading 2.90 ERA, while striking out 265 batters, walking 76, and held opponents to a .212 batting average for an AL best 6.3 WAR.

Shane Bieber (22-6 W/L, 3.02 ERA, 263 K in 256.2 IP, 4.4 WAR) of the Cleveland Guardians finished second in the voting, while Framber Valdez (18-10 W/L, 2.96 ERA, 239 K in 246.1 IP, 5.5 WAR) of the Houston Astros placed third.

[OmahaBaseball]

Acuña Jr. Captures 2024 NL MVP Award

Atlanta, GA — Ronald Acuña Jr. has seen plenty of hot streaks during his Major League Baseball career. In 2024, he put together one that never seemed to cool off. For his electrifying, season-long excellence, the Atlanta Braves right fielder was named the National League’s Most Valuable Player. This is Acuna's 2nd career MVP award.

Acuña delivered across the board, finishing the season with a .305 batting average while piling up 38 doubles, 4 triples, 38 home runs, and 114 RBI for a slashline of .305/.395/.580 that generated 8.0 WAR. Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts (.297/.376.520; 8.4 WAR) finished second in the MVP voting after another standout campaign, while Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm (.313/.353/.568; 6.3 WAR) placed third.

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Henderson Captures AL MVP

Baltimore, MD — At just 23 years old, Gunnar Henderson is setting a towering standard for excellence, as the Baltimore Orioles shortstop was named the American League Most Valuable Player. In capping a sensational 2024 season, Henderson hit .302 with a .382 on-base percentage, as he collected 182 hits, including 31 doubles, 8 triples, and 38 home runs. All told, Henderson drove in 111 runs and crossed the plate 116 times which was good for 9.1 WAR.

In what was a close award's race, Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez (.291/.379/.596; 51 home runs, 137 RBI, 5.9 WAR) finished second in the MVP voting after another dominant offensive season, while Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. (.288/.356/.504; 9.1 WAR) placed third.

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Angels Acquire Top Prospect Jobe from Tigers

The Los Angeles Angels and Detroit Tigers announced a surprising trade involving a mix of major and minor-league talent, anchored by the headlining deal piece in top-pitching prospect Jackson Jobe.

The trade details see the Angels acquiring 22-year-old right-handed pitching prospect Jackson Jobe, while shipping off 25-year-old right-hander Sam Bachman, 22-year-old minor league left fielder Alexander Ramirez, and 24-year-old minor league first baseman David McCabe to Detroit.

Baseball insiders are at a loss for why the Tigers would move on from Jobe so early, especially in light of him winning the Eastern League Outstanding Pitching Award, finishing 2nd in the Eastern League Most Valuable Player award, and leading his team to the Eastern League Championship in the 2024 season.

Angels receive:

Jackson Jobe (22-year old SP)
Drafted in 1st round, 3rd pick by the Detroit Tigers (2021)
#54 ranked prospect (2024); prior highest ranking #13 prospect (2023)
EL All-Star (2024); EL Outstanding Pitcher (2024)
 13-7 W/L record with 169 K, 45 BB, and 2.72 ERA for 5.1 WAR in 162.1 IP (AA / 2024)
19-16 W/L record with 334 K, 81 BB, and 3.02 ERA for 7.2 WAR in 303.2 IP (R, A, A+, AA / 3 seasons)

Tigers receive:

Sam Bachman (25-year old RP)
Drafted in 1st round, 9th pick by the Los Angeles Angels (2021)
 2-0 W/L record with  10 K,  8 BB,  0 SV, and 4.26 ERA for -0.1 WAR in  12.2 IP (MLB / 2024)
 3-2 W/L record with  24 K, 19 BB,  1 SV, and 3.64 ERA for  0.1 WAR in  29.2 IP (MLB / 2 seasons)
7-14 W/L record with 119 K, 76 BB, 20 SV, and 3.02 ERA for  1.3 WAR in 127.1 IP (A+, AA, AAA / 4 seasons)

Alexander Ramirez (22-year old LF)
International Free Agent signed by the Los Angeles Angels (2018)
NWL Glove Wizard (2023)
.176/.259/.307 with 12 2B,  5 3B, 11 HR,  35 R,  23 RBI for -1.0 WAR in  467 PA (A / 2024)
.222/.296/.355 with 75 2B, 27 3B, 33 HR, 235 R, 184 RBI for -3.1 WAR in 1902 PA (R, A, A+ / 5 seasons)

David McCabe (24-year old 1B)
Drafted in 4th round, 19th pick (125th overall) by the Atlanta Braves (2022)
South Atlantic League Platinum Stick (2023)
.247/.348/.503 with 18 2B, 2 3B, 33 HR,  80 R,  74 RBI for 0.8 WAR in  549 PA (AAA / 2024)
.260/.363/.462 with 47 2B, 3 3B, 51 HR, 158 R, 172 RBI for 3.3 WAR in 1198 PA (R, A, A+, AAA / 3 seasons)