All articles tagged with #second baseman
Ryne Sandberg, a Cubs Hall of Famer and legendary second baseman, had an illustrious 16-year career marked by numerous records and achievements, including 10 All-Star selections, a 1984 MVP, and a record 13 triples at Wrigley Field, showcasing his all-around excellence in hitting, defense, and base running.
Bleacher Report ranks every MLB team's starting second baseman for the 2024 season, considering offensive and defensive contributions as well as past track records. The rankings feature established stars like Ozzie Albies and José Altuve, as well as up-and-comers such as Andrés Giménez and Nolan Gorman. The article provides insights into each player's performance and potential impact for the upcoming season, offering a comprehensive preview of the second base position across the league.
The Baltimore Orioles have signed veteran second baseman Kolten Wong to a minor league deal, with Wong joining their big league camp as a non-roster invitee. Wong, who struggled with the Mariners but performed well in a brief stint with the Dodgers last season, will face tough competition to make the Orioles' roster due to the team's abundance of infield talent. However, his left-handed bat and versatility could make him a valuable addition to provide insurance for the team's inexperienced infielders.
The Kansas City Royals have signed free agent second baseman Adam Frazier to a one-year deal, adding to their offseason spending spree. Frazier, who previously played for the Orioles, will provide veteran leadership to the young Royals team. The deal includes an $8.5MM mutual option for the 2025 season. The Royals have been aggressive in adding veteran help, focusing on both pitching and position players. Frazier's role in Kansas City may involve platooning at second base and potentially playing in the outfield, as the team aims to improve after several losing seasons.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that Mookie Betts will be the team's everyday second baseman next season, putting an end to the speculation of him splitting time between the infield and outfield. Betts, who prefers second base, believes it will be easier to stick to one position, and the Dodgers also believe it will be less taxing on his body. The team plans to make Gavin Lux the primary shortstop, with Miguel Rojas as his backup. The Dodgers are bringing back Jason Heyward as a right fielder and will seek a right fielder to play against left-handed pitching.
The Seattle Mariners have designated second baseman Kolten Wong for assignment after a disappointing season, and the Boston Red Sox have expressed interest in trading for him. Wong, who had been acquired by the Mariners in the offseason, struggled both offensively and defensively, posting a .165 batting average and below-average defense. Prior to this season, Wong had been a consistent performer at second base, earning NL Gold Glove awards in 2019 and 2020. The Red Sox, who have faced infield production issues, are considering Wong as a potential solution.
The Cincinnati Reds are reportedly willing to trade second baseman Jonathan India before the MLB trade deadline, seeking young, controllable starting pitching in return. Despite India's success as the 2021 NL Rookie of the Year, the Reds have significant infield depth and lack starting pitching options. However, with three more years of club control, it is unlikely they will trade India, who is hitting .251 with 14 home runs and 51 RBIs this season.
The Detroit Tigers selected Max Anderson, a second baseman from Nebraska, with the 45th overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft. Anderson is known for his strong batting skills, leading the Big Ten in hitting with a .410 average and displaying power with 21 home runs. However, there may be some power regression at the professional level. Anderson's versatility in the field is still uncertain, as he has played at third base and second base. Overall, if he can consistently find his power, Anderson has the potential to be an everyday player for the Tigers.
The Detroit Tigers selected Max Anderson, a second baseman from Nebraska, with the No. 45 overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft. Anderson was the third pick by the Tigers, who also added high school outfielder Max Clark and high school shortstop Kevin McGonigle in the draft. Anderson had an impressive college career and posted a career-high 1.232 OPS in the 2023 season. The Tigers have 18 picks remaining in the draft.
The San Francisco Giants have placed second baseman Thairo Estrada on the 10-day injured list after an MRI revealed a fractured bone in his left hand. Estrada, who has been the team's most valuable position player this season, will be evaluated by the Giants' orthopedist to determine the extent of his recovery time. The Giants will likely rely on a platoon of Brett Wisely and Casey Schmitt at second base in Estrada's absence.
Thairo Estrada, the San Francisco Giants' best hitter and second baseman, has been placed on the 10-day IL due to an inflamed wrist. Although an MRI showed no significant structural damage, he did not pass the range of motion tests. Estrada's absence will be a big loss for the Giants, who are more dependent on his performance than expected. David Villar has been recalled from Triple-A Sacramento as a corresponding move, and Brett Wisely will also be filling in at second base.
Minnesota Twins' second baseman Jorge Polanco has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a left hamstring strain, with the placement being retroactive to May 18. Infielder Edouard Julien has been called up from Triple-A to take Polanco’s spot on the active roster. This is Polanco's second time on the injured list this season, and his absence will be a blow to the Twins' inconsistent offense.
The Chicago Cubs have reportedly agreed to a three-year, $35 million contract extension with second baseman Nico Hoerner, buying out one free agent year. Hoerner has emerged as one of the Cubs' better players in recent years, with strong defensive skills and a decent offensive profile. The Cubs seem confident he'll continue to improve and view him as a key part of their core.