Category: MLB

With the current state of the Nationals being widely viewed as far from a legitimate contending window, fans should begin to get familiar with their next generation of top prospects. An impressive crop of talent tops the Washington prospect rankings, including SS Eli Willits, RHP Travis Sykora, and C Harry Ford, among others, but the system has already seen early success further down the list.

One player in particular who has made waves among Nats fans since his selection in the 2025 MLB Draft is right-handed pitcher Miguel Sime Jr., a flamethrowing starting pitcher.

Sime Jr., taken with the 111th overall pick in the draft out of Brooklyn’s Poly Prep Country Day School, lit up the pre-draft scene with multiple record-setting appearances in the MLB Draft League and the national travel baseball circuit. He consistently reached triple-digits with his fastball and was one of the most polarizing arms in the entire class.

The lack of polish with his secondary offerings and overall “pitchability” caused most scouts to view him as more of a project, but his 70-grade fastball alone makes his potential sky high. Washington was enamored enough with his arsenal to hand him a hefty $2 million signing bonus to secure his services, and they are banking on their ability to mold the teenager into an impact arm down the line.

The 18-year-old flashed at times in the Nationals’ minor league camp outings during 2026 Spring Training and was assigned to Single-A Fredericksburg to open his first professional season. He saw the first action of his minor league career on Easter Sunday, and, while not perfect, he put together a start that should already begin to draw more eyes to his development.

Facing the Augusta GreenJackets, the Atlanta Braves’ Single-A affiliate, he began his pro career with 2.1 innings of 1-run ball, striking out 6 batters, walking just 1, and giving up a single hit. The metrics looked the part as well, sitting around 100 MPH with his fastball and showcasing some early action with his offspeed pitches, including getting 2025 1st-round pick Tate Southisene to chase on a breaking ball out of the zone.

Sime Jr. isn’t someone who will impact the 2026 Nationals, or the 2027 Nationals, and likely not even the 2028 Nationals. However, he’s more than worth keeping tabs on, especially as Washington continues to revamp their pitching development program under new President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni.

The focus remains, at least this early in the season, on the performance of the MLB roster. With that being said, it’s no secret that not many analysts are projecting the Nationals to be a playoff team in 2026. All eyes are pointed toward the future, and the emphasis on the development of their prospects will only continue to grow under the new front office, with Sime Jr. a prime candidate to rise up the ranks if he can maintain the early growth he’s displayed.

The Cubs continue their early-season interleague tour through American League divisions. They began with an AL West club (Angels), played an AL Central team (Guardians) over the weekend, and now it’s an AL East matchup with the Rays, who come into this series with the same record as the Cubs — 4-5. But Tampa Bay has played all nine of its games on the road so far, scheduled that way to make sure the renovated Tropicana Field was ready to go. The Rays will be the last of MLB’s 30 teams to play their home opener this year.

As you likely know, BCB’s Ashley MacLennan also writes for the SB Nation Rays site DRays Bay. Here’s Ashley with some comments on the Rays for us.

The start of the 2026 season hasn’t really gone the way the Rays had hoped, though of course the very small sample size is at play. One of the highlights of the season so far, though, has been the return of Shane McClanahan, the All-Star pitcher the Rays had to live without for two seasons. In his one start this year against Milwaukee he looked really good, despite the Rays not being able to get much run support to get him the win.

Drew Rasmussen has also had a good start to the year so he’ll be a pest to Chicago bats. The fielding for the Rays has been a difficulty so far, with plenty of errors and inconsistent results. They’ll hopefully get their feet under them soon, but right now they’ve had struggles with keeping game leads and providing their pitching staff run support when needed.

Chandler Simpson, as always, will be one to watch out for if he gets on base, as he has incredible speed and great steal instincts and he’s not afraid to be aggressive.

Fun facts

The Cubs have played only 25 previous games against the Rays. They have played fewer against only one current team: 24, vs. the Athletics. They also have played 25 vs. the Orioles.

The Cubs are 11-14 overall against the Rays, but only 2-6 at Tampa, where they lost three straight in 2008, split two games in 2017 and went 1-2 in 2024. Last year, the Cubs won two of three at Wrigley Field.
…
This will be the Cubs’ third consecutive series against an American League team, their longest such stretch of the season.

(Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)

Probable pitching matchups

Monday: Jameson Taillon, RHP (0-0, 0.00 ERA, 1.286 WHIP, 4.47 FIP) vs. Shane McClanahan, LHP (0-1, 3.86 ERA, 1.071 WHIP, 3.40 FIP)

Tuesday: Matthew Boyd, LHP (1-1, 6.75 ERA, 1.179 WHIP, 1.90 FIP) vs. Drew Rasmussen, RHP (0-0, 1.80 ERA, 0.700 WHIP, 4.08 FIP)

Wednesday: Colin Rea, RHP (0-0, 4.26 ERA, 1.421 WHIP, 3.18 FIP) vs. Joe Boyle, RHP (0-0, 3.18 ERA, 0.882 WHIP, 1.68 FIP)

NOTE: Colin Rea is not officially listed as the Wednesday starter as of the time this series preview posted, but it does seem likely that he’ll be the guy on Wednesday.

Times & TV channels

Monday: 3:10 p.m. CT, Marquee Sports Network

Tuesday: 5:40 p.m. CT, Marquee Sports Network

Wednesday: 5:40 p.m. CT, Marquee Sports Network

Prediction

I keep saying “two of three” and at some point, I’m going to be right. Maybe this time.

Up next

The Cubs have Thursday off, then return to Wrigley Field for a three-game series against the Pirates beginning Friday afternoon.

The Cubs continue their early-season interleague tour through American League divisions. They began with an AL West club (Angels), played an AL Central team (Guardians) over the weekend, and now it’s an AL East matchup with the Rays, who come into this series with the same record as the Cubs — 4-5. But Tampa Bay has played all nine of its games on the road so far, scheduled that way to make sure the renovated Tropicana Field was ready to go. The Rays will be the last of MLB’s 30 teams to play their home opener this year.

As you likely know, BCB’s Ashley MacLennan also writes for the SB Nation Rays site DRays Bay. Here’s Ashley with some comments on the Rays for us.

The start of the 2026 season hasn’t really gone the way the Rays had hoped, though of course the very small sample size is at play. One of the highlights of the season so far, though, has been the return of Shane McClanahan, the All-Star pitcher the Rays had to live without for two seasons. In his one start this year against Milwaukee he looked really good, despite the Rays not being able to get much run support to get him the win.

Drew Rasmussen has also had a good start to the year so he’ll be a pest to Chicago bats. The fielding for the Rays has been a difficulty so far, with plenty of errors and inconsistent results. They’ll hopefully get their feet under them soon, but right now they’ve had struggles with keeping game leads and providing their pitching staff run support when needed.

Chandler Simpson, as always, will be one to watch out for if he gets on base, as he has incredible speed and great steal instincts and he’s not afraid to be aggressive.

Fun facts

The Cubs have played only 25 previous games against the Rays. They have played fewer against only one current team: 24, vs. the Athletics. They also have played 25 vs. the Orioles.

The Cubs are 11-14 overall against the Rays, but only 2-6 at Tampa, where they lost three straight in 2008, split two games in 2017 and went 1-2 in 2024. Last year, the Cubs won two of three at Wrigley Field.
…
This will be the Cubs’ third consecutive series against an American League team, their longest such stretch of the season.

(Courtesy BCB’s JohnW53)

Probable pitching matchups

Monday: Jameson Taillon, RHP (0-0, 0.00 ERA, 1.286 WHIP, 4.47 FIP) vs. Shane McClanahan, LHP (0-1, 3.86 ERA, 1.071 WHIP, 3.40 FIP)

Tuesday: Matthew Boyd, LHP (1-1, 6.75 ERA, 1.179 WHIP, 1.90 FIP) vs. Drew Rasmussen, RHP (0-0, 1.80 ERA, 0.700 WHIP, 4.08 FIP)

Wednesday: Colin Rea, RHP (0-0, 4.26 ERA, 1.421 WHIP, 3.18 FIP) vs. Joe Boyle, RHP (0-0, 3.18 ERA, 0.882 WHIP, 1.68 FIP)

NOTE: Colin Rea is not officially listed as the Wednesday starter as of the time this series preview posted, but it does seem likely that he’ll be the guy on Wednesday.

Times & TV channels

Monday: 3:10 p.m. CT, Marquee Sports Network

Tuesday: 5:40 p.m. CT, Marquee Sports Network

Wednesday: 5:40 p.m. CT, Marquee Sports Network

Prediction

I keep saying “two of three” and at some point, I’m going to be right. Maybe this time.

Up next

The Cubs have Thursday off, then return to Wrigley Field for a three-game series against the Pirates beginning Friday afternoon.

Some of us hardcore fans track Royals players from the moment they are signed. Some of these players spend some time in Royals blue at the big league level, only to depart, others never make it to Kansas City, but continue their career bouncing around in other organizations.

Some former Royals signed multi-year contracts last winter, including Ryan O’Hearn with the Pirates, Brad Keller with the Phillies, and Mike Yastrzemski with the Braves. Some were former top prospects that could use a change of scenery, like MJ Melendez with the Mets and Nick Pratto with the Rangers. Former first round pick Foster Griffin returned from a stint in Japan to become a sought-after free agent, signing with the Nationals. Some players have changed positions – Fernando Cruz and Erick Mejia were infielders when they were in the Royals farm system, and now they are pitchers.

Here’s a compilation of players that once played in the Royals organization either as big leaguers or minor leaguers, that are on MLB-affiliated rosters or in Asia to begin the year. These rosters are as of today, and are subject to change.

Hitters

CJ Alexander, Astros (AAA)

Andrew Benintendi, White Sox

Cavan Biggio, Astros (AAA)

Dairon Blanco, Rangers (AAA)

Mark Canha, Rangers (AAA)

Orlando Calixte, Chunichi Dragons (Japan)

Bobby Dalbec, Yomiuri Giants (Japan)

Paul DeJong, Yankees (AAA)

Cam Devanney, Hanshin Tigers (Japan)

Jared Dickey, Athletics (AA)

Clay Dungan, Padres (AAA)

Nate Eaton, Red Sox (AAA)

Ryan Fitzgerald, Dodgers (AAA)

Adam Frazier, Angels

Freddy Fermin, Padres

Jordan Groshans, Braves (AA)

Randal Grichuk, Yankees

Garrett Hampson, Reds (AAA)

Brewer Hicklen, Braves (AAA)

Nicky Lopez, Rockies (AAA)

MJ Melendez, Mets (AAA)

Callan Moss, Pirates (AA)

Ryan O’Hearn, Pirates

Edward Olivares, Rays (AAA)

Blake Perkins, Brewers

Tommy Pham, Mets (AAA)

Logan Porter, Giants (AAA)

Nick Pratto, Rangers (AAA)

Jakson Reetz, Mariners (AAA)

Franmil Reyes, Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (NPB)

Sebastián Rivero, Angels (AAA)

Brent Rooker, Athletics

Esteury Ruiz, Marlins (IL)

Carlos Santana, Diamondbacks

Jorge Soler, Angels

Samad Taylor, Padres (AAA)

Cayden Wallace, Nationals (AA)

Joey Wiemer, Nationals

Mike Yastrzemski, Braves

Pitchers

Jason Adam, Padres (IL)

Dan Altavilla, Twins (AAA)

Nick Anderson, Athletics (AAA)

Scott Barlow, Athletics

Mason Barnett, Athletics (AAA)

Scott Blewett, Cardinals (AAA)

Jonathan Bowlan, Phillies

A.J. Causey, Athletics (AA)

Chandler Champlain, Nationals (AAA)

Aroldis Chapman, Red Sox

Taylor Clarke, Diamondbacks

Dylan Coleman, Yankees (AAA)

Austin Cox, Yokohama DeNA BayStars (Japan)

Fernando Cruz, Yankees

Michael Fulmer, Giants (AAA)

Gerson Garabito, Brewers (AAA)

Robert Garcia, Rangers

Ofreidy Gómez, Mets (AAA)

Foster Griffin, Nationals

Jesse Hahn, Blue Jays (AAA)

Patrick Halligan, Red Sox (AAA)

Hunter Harvey, Cubs

Thomas Hatch, Diamondbacks (AAA)

Taylor Hearn, Hiroshima Toyo Carp (Japan)

Ben Hernandez, Mariners (AA)

Carlos Hernández, Guardians (IL)

Tim Hill, Yankees

Andrew Hoffman, Diamondbacks

Matthew Hoskins, Rays (Low-A)

Jakob Junis, Rangers

Brad Keller, Phillies

Will Klein, Dodgers

Rylan Kaufman, White Sox (AA)

Brooks Kriske, Athletics (AAA)

Jackson Kowar, Orioles (AAA)

Ben Lively, Guardians (IL)

Sam Long, Chiba Lotte Marines (Japan)

Michael Lorenzen, Rockies

Richard Lovelady, Mets

Elvis Luciano, Yomiuri Giants (Japan)

Andrés Machado, Orix Buffaloes (Japan)

Sean Manaea, Mets

Yunior Marte, Reds (AAA)

Yunior Marte, Giants (High-A)

Logan Martin, Giants (AA)

Erick Mejia, Nationals (AA)

Wyatt Mills, Dodgers (AAA)

Noah Murdock, Pirates (AAA)

Connor Oliver, Pirates (High A)

Joel Payamps, Braves

Trevor Richards, Phillies (AAA)

Jarold Rosado, White Sox (AA)

David Sandlin, White Sox (AAA)

Colin Selby, Orioles (IL)

T.J. Sikkema, Red Sox (AAA)

Brady Singer, Reds

Evan Sisk, Pirates (AAA)

Burch Smith, Tigers (AAA)

Collin Snider, Cubs (AAA)

Gabe Speier, Mariners

Josh Staumont, Reds (AAA)

Jacob Wallace, Braves (AAA)

Luke Weaver, Mets

Ryan Weiss, Astros

Kyle Wright, Cubs (AAA)

Ryan Yarbrough, Yankees

Angel Zerpa, Brewers

Tyler Zuber, Marlins (AAA)

Some of us hardcore fans track Royals players from the moment they are signed. Some of these players spend some time in Royals blue at the big league level, only to depart, others never make it to Kansas City, but continue their career bouncing around in other organizations.

Some former Royals signed multi-year contracts last winter, including Ryan O’Hearn with the Pirates, Brad Keller with the Phillies, and Mike Yastrzemski with the Braves. Some were former top prospects that could use a change of scenery, like MJ Melendez with the Mets and Nick Pratto with the Rangers. Former first round pick Foster Griffin returned from a stint in Japan to become a sought-after free agent, signing with the Nationals. Some players have changed positions – Fernando Cruz and Erick Mejia were infielders when they were in the Royals farm system, and now they are pitchers.

Here’s a compilation of players that once played in the Royals organization either as big leaguers or minor leaguers, that are on MLB-affiliated rosters or in Asia to begin the year. These rosters are as of today, and are subject to change.

Hitters

CJ Alexander, Astros (AAA)

Andrew Benintendi, White Sox

Cavan Biggio, Astros (AAA)

Dairon Blanco, Rangers (AAA)

Mark Canha, Rangers (AAA)

Orlando Calixte, Chunichi Dragons (Japan)

Bobby Dalbec, Yomiuri Giants (Japan)

Paul DeJong, Yankees (AAA)

Cam Devanney, Hanshin Tigers (Japan)

Jared Dickey, Athletics (AA)

Clay Dungan, Padres (AAA)

Nate Eaton, Red Sox (AAA)

Ryan Fitzgerald, Dodgers (AAA)

Adam Frazier, Angels

Freddy Fermin, Padres

Jordan Groshans, Braves (AA)

Randal Grichuk, Yankees

Garrett Hampson, Reds (AAA)

Brewer Hicklen, Braves (AAA)

Nicky Lopez, Rockies (AAA)

MJ Melendez, Mets (AAA)

Callan Moss, Pirates (AA)

Ryan O’Hearn, Pirates

Edward Olivares, Rays (AAA)

Blake Perkins, Brewers

Tommy Pham, Mets (AAA)

Logan Porter, Giants (AAA)

Nick Pratto, Rangers (AAA)

Jakson Reetz, Mariners (AAA)

Franmil Reyes, Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters (NPB)

Sebastián Rivero, Angels (AAA)

Brent Rooker, Athletics

Esteury Ruiz, Marlins (IL)

Carlos Santana, Diamondbacks

Jorge Soler, Angels

Samad Taylor, Padres (AAA)

Cayden Wallace, Nationals (AA)

Joey Wiemer, Nationals

Mike Yastrzemski, Braves

Pitchers

Jason Adam, Padres (IL)

Dan Altavilla, Twins (AAA)

Nick Anderson, Athletics (AAA)

Scott Barlow, Athletics

Mason Barnett, Athletics (AAA)

Scott Blewett, Cardinals (AAA)

Jonathan Bowlan, Phillies

A.J. Causey, Athletics (AA)

Chandler Champlain, Nationals (AAA)

Aroldis Chapman, Red Sox

Taylor Clarke, Diamondbacks

Dylan Coleman, Yankees (AAA)

Austin Cox, Yokohama DeNA BayStars (Japan)

Fernando Cruz, Yankees

Michael Fulmer, Giants (AAA)

Gerson Garabito, Brewers (AAA)

Robert Garcia, Rangers

Ofreidy Gómez, Mets (AAA)

Foster Griffin, Nationals

Jesse Hahn, Blue Jays (AAA)

Patrick Halligan, Red Sox (AAA)

Hunter Harvey, Cubs

Thomas Hatch, Diamondbacks (AAA)

Taylor Hearn, Hiroshima Toyo Carp (Japan)

Ben Hernandez, Mariners (AA)

Carlos Hernández, Guardians (IL)

Tim Hill, Yankees

Andrew Hoffman, Diamondbacks

Matthew Hoskins, Rays (Low-A)

Jakob Junis, Rangers

Brad Keller, Phillies

Will Klein, Dodgers

Rylan Kaufman, White Sox (AA)

Brooks Kriske, Athletics (AAA)

Jackson Kowar, Orioles (AAA)

Ben Lively, Guardians (IL)

Sam Long, Chiba Lotte Marines (Japan)

Michael Lorenzen, Rockies

Richard Lovelady, Mets

Elvis Luciano, Yomiuri Giants (Japan)

Andrés Machado, Orix Buffaloes (Japan)

Sean Manaea, Mets

Yunior Marte, Reds (AAA)

Yunior Marte, Giants (High-A)

Logan Martin, Giants (AA)

Erick Mejia, Nationals (AA)

Wyatt Mills, Dodgers (AAA)

Noah Murdock, Pirates (AAA)

Connor Oliver, Pirates (High A)

Joel Payamps, Braves

Trevor Richards, Phillies (AAA)

Jarold Rosado, White Sox (AA)

David Sandlin, White Sox (AAA)

Colin Selby, Orioles (IL)

T.J. Sikkema, Red Sox (AAA)

Brady Singer, Reds

Evan Sisk, Pirates (AAA)

Burch Smith, Tigers (AAA)

Collin Snider, Cubs (AAA)

Gabe Speier, Mariners

Josh Staumont, Reds (AAA)

Jacob Wallace, Braves (AAA)

Luke Weaver, Mets

Ryan Weiss, Astros

Kyle Wright, Cubs (AAA)

Ryan Yarbrough, Yankees

Angel Zerpa, Brewers

Tyler Zuber, Marlins (AAA)

1993
The divisional championship season began with a night game in Minnesota, and a big 10-5 win over the Twins. Tim Raines had a three-run home run, and scored two runs. The White Sox would wind up winning the division by eight games, compiling 94 victories. Jack McDowell picked up the first of his 22 wins on the year in a six-inning effort.

2002
Mark Buehrle cruised to an easy win in Kansas City, allowing five hits over six innings of a 14-0 whitewash. Paul Konerko scored three times, and he and Magglio Ordoñez drove in three runs apiece. Down 9-0 to start the eighth inning, the Royals summoned the youngest pitcher in the majors, Miguel Asencio, into the game for his MLB debut. Asencio walked Kenny Lofton on four pitches, then did the same to Ray Durham, Frank Thomas, and Ordoñez. All 16 of Asencio’s pitches were outside the strike zone.

The rookie was removed, replaced by Cory Bailey. Bailey managed to throw a strike — but then walked Konerko to surrender another free run.

2003
After starting the season 0-3, the White Sox won two and then pulled back to .500 with a crazy win over the Tigers, ensuring a sweep. Detroit led, 2-1, in the eighth when Chicago ran off nine runs to pull ahead by the eventual final of 10-2.

The nine Sox runs were scored on just four hits; Magglio Ordoñez had the first hit of the inning (single) and the last (three-run homer).

For Detroit, the loss made them the first team in 40 years to start two seasons in a row with an 0-6 record.

2009
For the first time in new Sox Park history (and the first time since 1982) the White Sox home opener was snowed out.

Players arrived at the park to three inches of snow, with Alexei Ramírez playing and throwing snowballs in what he said was his first experience with it. Groundskeeper Roger Bossard and his crew arrived at the park at 6 a.m. to shovel and hose down the snow to melt it into the drainage system.

The White Sox won the rescheduled opener the next day, 4-2, but dropped the next two of the opening home series to the Royals en route to a 79-83 season.

2011
Adam Dunn underwent an emergency appendectomy with the White Sox on the road in Kansas City, just days after Cardinals outfielder Matt Holliday suffered same.

Dunn had gotten off to a terrific start for the 2-2 White Sox, slashing .286/.474/.571 with a homer and five RBIs. Although he pronounced himself fit to at least pinch-hit just a day after his procedure, Dunn would sit out a week and see his hitting evaporate in his first season after signing a mulit-year deal with Chicago. His average dipped as low as .149 before settling at .159. Dunn’s -2.9 WAR remains the worst single season in White Sox history, and some 16% worse than his nearest challenger, and ranks as the 13th-worst in MLB history among hitters.

2012
What a difference a year makes.

Adam Dunn, coming off of the worst season in White Sox history and one of the worst of any MLB hitter, ever, homered on Opening Day to tie a record held by Frank Robinson for most in history (eight). While the White Sox lost against the defending World Series champs in Texas, 3-2, Dunn would go on to swing his season WAR back up 4.5 from 2011 and finish at 1.6. His 41 homers in 2012 would stand as the second-most of his career and remain tied for sixth in White Sox history.

1993
The divisional championship season began with a night game in Minnesota, and a big 10-5 win over the Twins. Tim Raines had a three-run home run, and scored two runs. The White Sox would wind up winning the division by eight games, compiling 94 victories. Jack McDowell picked up the first of his 22 wins on the year in a six-inning effort.

2002
Mark Buehrle cruised to an easy win in Kansas City, allowing five hits over six innings of a 14-0 whitewash. Paul Konerko scored three times, and he and Magglio Ordoñez drove in three runs apiece. Down 9-0 to start the eighth inning, the Royals summoned the youngest pitcher in the majors, Miguel Asencio, into the game for his MLB debut. Asencio walked Kenny Lofton on four pitches, then did the same to Ray Durham, Frank Thomas, and Ordoñez. All 16 of Asencio’s pitches were outside the strike zone.

The rookie was removed, replaced by Cory Bailey. Bailey managed to throw a strike — but then walked Konerko to surrender another free run.

2003
After starting the season 0-3, the White Sox won two and then pulled back to .500 with a crazy win over the Tigers, ensuring a sweep. Detroit led, 2-1, in the eighth when Chicago ran off nine runs to pull ahead by the eventual final of 10-2.

The nine Sox runs were scored on just four hits; Magglio Ordoñez had the first hit of the inning (single) and the last (three-run homer).

For Detroit, the loss made them the first team in 40 years to start two seasons in a row with an 0-6 record.

2009
For the first time in new Sox Park history (and the first time since 1982) the White Sox home opener was snowed out.

Players arrived at the park to three inches of snow, with Alexei Ramírez playing and throwing snowballs in what he said was his first experience with it. Groundskeeper Roger Bossard and his crew arrived at the park at 6 a.m. to shovel and hose down the snow to melt it into the drainage system.

The White Sox won the rescheduled opener the next day, 4-2, but dropped the next two of the opening home series to the Royals en route to a 79-83 season.

2011
Adam Dunn underwent an emergency appendectomy with the White Sox on the road in Kansas City, just days after Cardinals outfielder Matt Holliday suffered same.

Dunn had gotten off to a terrific start for the 2-2 White Sox, slashing .286/.474/.571 with a homer and five RBIs. Although he pronounced himself fit to at least pinch-hit just a day after his procedure, Dunn would sit out a week and see his hitting evaporate in his first season after signing a mulit-year deal with Chicago. His average dipped as low as .149 before settling at .159. Dunn’s -2.9 WAR remains the worst single season in White Sox history, and some 16% worse than his nearest challenger, and ranks as the 13th-worst in MLB history among hitters.

2012
What a difference a year makes.

Adam Dunn, coming off of the worst season in White Sox history and one of the worst of any MLB hitter, ever, homered on Opening Day to tie a record held by Frank Robinson for most in history (eight). While the White Sox lost against the defending World Series champs in Texas, 3-2, Dunn would go on to swing his season WAR back up 4.5 from 2011 and finish at 1.6. His 41 homers in 2012 would stand as the second-most of his career and remain tied for sixth in White Sox history.

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The San Francisco Giants enter a home series with the Philadelphia Phillies faltering, having dropped three consecutive games.

However, I believe San Francisco can get back on track tonight. See why with my Phillies vs. Giants predictions and MLB picks for Monday, April 6.

Who will win Phillies vs Giants today: Giants (+105)

These teams have played vastly different schedules to start the year, creating value on the home team.

The San Francisco Giants are just 3-7 but have faced three quality teams (Yankees, Padres, Mets) and will be playing their fifth consecutive home game. 

The Philadelphia Phillies are 5-4, but their series wins came against two of the worst teams in the league (Rockies and Nationals). It’s not an ideal travel spot, coming off an uninspiring 4-1 loss in Colorado. 

Adrian Houser’s 117 Pitching+ in his Giants debut will play in pitcher-friendly Oracle Park.

COVERS INTEL: Much was made about Phillies starter Andrew Painter’s impressive MLB debut (1 ER, 4 H, 8 Ks). Keep in mind that was against a poor Nationals lineup, however.

Phillies vs Giants Over/Under pick: Under 8 (-102)

There’s too much talent and past production in San Francisco’s lineup for these results to hold for too long, but right now they paint an undeniable picture — this lineup is riding the struggle bus. 

The Giants are 23 points worse in wRC+ (45) and 58 points worse in wOBA (.229) against RHP than any other team. They’ve plated three or fewer runs in in eight of their 10 games. 

Both starting pitchers had a 117 Pitching+ in their respective debuts, and both bullpens are due for positive regression with Top-12 SIERA marks but Bottom-10 ERAs.

Phillies vs Giants odds

• Moneyline: Philadelphia -116 | San Francisco -102
• Run line: Philadelphia -1.5 | San Francisco +1.5
• Over/Under: Over 8 | Under 8

Phillies vs Giants trend

The Phillies have cashed the Under in 44 of their last 79 away games. Find more MLB betting trends for Phillies vs. Giants.

How to watch Phillies vs Giants and game info

Phillies vs Giants latest injuries

Phillies vs Giants weather

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

The San Francisco Giants enter a home series with the Philadelphia Phillies faltering, having dropped three consecutive games.

However, I believe San Francisco can get back on track tonight. See why with my Phillies vs. Giants predictions and MLB picks for Monday, April 6.

Who will win Phillies vs Giants today: Giants (+105)

These teams have played vastly different schedules to start the year, creating value on the home team.

The San Francisco Giants are just 3-7 but have faced three quality teams (Yankees, Padres, Mets) and will be playing their fifth consecutive home game. 

The Philadelphia Phillies are 5-4, but their series wins came against two of the worst teams in the league (Rockies and Nationals). It’s not an ideal travel spot, coming off an uninspiring 4-1 loss in Colorado. 

Adrian Houser’s 117 Pitching+ in his Giants debut will play in pitcher-friendly Oracle Park.

COVERS INTEL: Much was made about Phillies starter Andrew Painter’s impressive MLB debut (1 ER, 4 H, 8 Ks). Keep in mind that was against a poor Nationals lineup, however.

Phillies vs Giants Over/Under pick: Under 8 (-102)

There’s too much talent and past production in San Francisco’s lineup for these results to hold for too long, but right now they paint an undeniable picture — this lineup is riding the struggle bus. 

The Giants are 23 points worse in wRC+ (45) and 58 points worse in wOBA (.229) against RHP than any other team. They’ve plated three or fewer runs in in eight of their 10 games. 

Both starting pitchers had a 117 Pitching+ in their respective debuts, and both bullpens are due for positive regression with Top-12 SIERA marks but Bottom-10 ERAs.

Phillies vs Giants odds

• Moneyline: Philadelphia -116 | San Francisco -102
• Run line: Philadelphia -1.5 | San Francisco +1.5
• Over/Under: Over 8 | Under 8

Phillies vs Giants trend

The Phillies have cashed the Under in 44 of their last 79 away games. Find more MLB betting trends for Phillies vs. Giants.

How to watch Phillies vs Giants and game info

Phillies vs Giants latest injuries

Phillies vs Giants weather

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

It's a full MLB slate today, and we're kicking off the week with some MLB best bets based on prices at the prediction market Polymarket, which allows bettors all across the country to join in on the baseball action.

Our expert MLB picks are below, with a distinct National League flavor to our April 6 plays.

MLB expert picks for today

Pick	Odds
Josh Inglis: PIT ML	-127
Jon Metler: COL ML	+163
Neil Parker: PHI ML	-113

Prices courtesy of Polymarket.

Josh Inglis' expert pick: Pirates moneyline

Price: 56¢ (-127) at Polymarket

The Pirates draw one of the best matchups on the board against Germán Márquez, who was hit hard in his debut, allowing eight hits in just nine outs, including two home runs. THE BAT projects Márquez to allow the most earned runs of any starter today, with a fair price on the Pirates moneyline at -178. With 14 mph winds blowing out and Márquez’s fly-ball profile, Pittsburgh is in a strong spot to generate offense. On the other side, Bubba Chandler brings elite velocity and should be able to keep a light-hitting San Diego Padres lineup in check.

Jon Metler's expert pick: Rockies moneyline

Price: 38¢ (+163) at Polymarket

The Rockies cashed a parlay for me yesterday, and I wasn’t expecting to back them again on the moneyline today... but here we are — Go Rockies! The Houston Astros are sending Cody Bolton out for his first career start due to Hunter Brown’s injury. Even if Bolton manages to navigate Coors Field, he’s a career reliever, which means Houston will likely lean heavily on its bullpen — just one day after playing a 10-inning game against the Athletics in Sacramento. This sets up as a tough scheduling spot for the Astros, and the price on Colorado feels too strong to pass up. The Rockies are trading at 38% on the moneyline, but I make them closer to 44%.

Neil Parker's expert pick: Phillies moneyline

Price: 53¢ (-113) at Polymarket

The San Francisco Giants check in last in baseball in wOBA and wRC+ against righties, and they’ll face an elite young pitcher in Andrew Painter, who impressed in his MLB debut with eight strikeouts and a 31% Called Strike + Whiffs rate. In the opposite dugout, the Phillies sit fifth in wOBA and wRC+ against right-handed arms, with San Fran sending veteran Adrian Houser to the bump. He sports a run-of-the-mill 4.29 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, and 4.51 xFIP across 413 1/3 innings since the beginning of 2022, so I'm expecting the Phillies to put enough runs on the board to pull away.

More MLB best bets for today

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Want to get more Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account here.

It's a full MLB slate today, and we're kicking off the week with some MLB best bets based on prices at the prediction market Polymarket, which allows bettors all across the country to join in on the baseball action.

Our expert MLB picks are below, with a distinct National League flavor to our April 6 plays.

MLB expert picks for today

Pick	Odds
Josh Inglis: PIT ML	-127
Jon Metler: COL ML	+163
Neil Parker: PHI ML	-113

Prices courtesy of Polymarket.

Josh Inglis' expert pick: Pirates moneyline

Price: 56¢ (-127) at Polymarket

The Pirates draw one of the best matchups on the board against Germán Márquez, who was hit hard in his debut, allowing eight hits in just nine outs, including two home runs. THE BAT projects Márquez to allow the most earned runs of any starter today, with a fair price on the Pirates moneyline at -178. With 14 mph winds blowing out and Márquez’s fly-ball profile, Pittsburgh is in a strong spot to generate offense. On the other side, Bubba Chandler brings elite velocity and should be able to keep a light-hitting San Diego Padres lineup in check.

Jon Metler's expert pick: Rockies moneyline

Price: 38¢ (+163) at Polymarket

The Rockies cashed a parlay for me yesterday, and I wasn’t expecting to back them again on the moneyline today... but here we are — Go Rockies! The Houston Astros are sending Cody Bolton out for his first career start due to Hunter Brown’s injury. Even if Bolton manages to navigate Coors Field, he’s a career reliever, which means Houston will likely lean heavily on its bullpen — just one day after playing a 10-inning game against the Athletics in Sacramento. This sets up as a tough scheduling spot for the Astros, and the price on Colorado feels too strong to pass up. The Rockies are trading at 38% on the moneyline, but I make them closer to 44%.

Neil Parker's expert pick: Phillies moneyline

Price: 53¢ (-113) at Polymarket

The San Francisco Giants check in last in baseball in wOBA and wRC+ against righties, and they’ll face an elite young pitcher in Andrew Painter, who impressed in his MLB debut with eight strikeouts and a 31% Called Strike + Whiffs rate. In the opposite dugout, the Phillies sit fifth in wOBA and wRC+ against right-handed arms, with San Fran sending veteran Adrian Houser to the bump. He sports a run-of-the-mill 4.29 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, and 4.51 xFIP across 413 1/3 innings since the beginning of 2022, so I'm expecting the Phillies to put enough runs on the board to pull away.

More MLB best bets for today

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

The latest news on your Houston Astros and from around MLB:

This was the greatest defensive play I have ever seen Jose Altuve make.Range. Awareness. Accuracy. Timeliness. Pure Brilliance.

Jose Altuve’s resurgence showing at plate and in field:

Astros continue to make marks offensively:

Fresh off his first career save, Cody Bolton will start today for the Astros in place of Hunter Brown:

For the first time in over 30 years, the Chicago White Sox have swept the Toronto Blue Jays.

Cleveland is watching it’s franchise player become it’s franchise icon:

Cubs’ 2B Nico Hoerner has a career OPS of 104. Yet he just got the 4th largest guaranteed salary of a second baseman all time. Ken Rosenthal thinks it’s a great move by Chicago.

A young fan stood in the rain and watched Shohei Ohtani work out. Ohtani noticed.

There are 20 of the top 100 prospects currently playing in the majors. More could be coming soon:

The Marlins stun the Yankees with a huge 8th inning.

Nolan Schanuel walks off the Seattle Mariners in Los Angeles:

Diamondbacks’ Ketel Marte walks off the Atlanta Braves in the desert!

It’s funny because it’s true:

Angels’ hitting coach Brady Anderson had some high praise of RF Jo Adell, who stole 3 home runs in one game Saturday, to Ken Rosenthal:

Does the MLBPA currently have the short end of the stick in negotiations for a new CBA with MLB?

Red Sox fans are angry with team ownership amid an MLB-worst 2-7 start, and let their voices be heard at Fenway Park Sunday afternoon.

First time I’ve heard that description:

The latest news on your Houston Astros and from around MLB:

This was the greatest defensive play I have ever seen Jose Altuve make.Range. Awareness. Accuracy. Timeliness. Pure Brilliance.

Jose Altuve’s resurgence showing at plate and in field:

Astros continue to make marks offensively:

Fresh off his first career save, Cody Bolton will start today for the Astros in place of Hunter Brown:

For the first time in over 30 years, the Chicago White Sox have swept the Toronto Blue Jays.

Cleveland is watching it’s franchise player become it’s franchise icon:

Cubs’ 2B Nico Hoerner has a career OPS of 104. Yet he just got the 4th largest guaranteed salary of a second baseman all time. Ken Rosenthal thinks it’s a great move by Chicago.

A young fan stood in the rain and watched Shohei Ohtani work out. Ohtani noticed.

There are 20 of the top 100 prospects currently playing in the majors. More could be coming soon:

The Marlins stun the Yankees with a huge 8th inning.

Nolan Schanuel walks off the Seattle Mariners in Los Angeles:

Diamondbacks’ Ketel Marte walks off the Atlanta Braves in the desert!

It’s funny because it’s true:

Angels’ hitting coach Brady Anderson had some high praise of RF Jo Adell, who stole 3 home runs in one game Saturday, to Ken Rosenthal:

Does the MLBPA currently have the short end of the stick in negotiations for a new CBA with MLB?

Red Sox fans are angry with team ownership amid an MLB-worst 2-7 start, and let their voices be heard at Fenway Park Sunday afternoon.

First time I’ve heard that description:

As we here at Pinstripe Alley continue to do our daily feature highlighting a Yankee birthday of the day, we’re probably going to come upon situations where someone we write about happens to have been in the news recently. In today’s case, it was for a sad reason.

Today’s birthday is Ken Clay, who sadly passed away just over a week ago. Even before that news, he was set to feature as today’s birthday honoree, so let’s offer our best wishes to his family and loved ones on his 72nd birthday.

Kenneth Earl “Ken” Clay
Born: April 6, 1954 (Lynchburg, VA)
Died: March 26, 2026 (Lynchburg, VA)
Yankees Tenure: 1977-79

Born on April 6, 1954, Clay was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia where he made his name at E.C. Glass High School. A multi-sport star and five-letter athlete, Clay excelled on the baseball diamond, leading to the Yankees selecting him in the second round of the 1972 MLB Draft.

Right from the start in the Yankees’ minor league system, Clay showed talent and was dubbed an “outstanding” pitching prospect, but his path to the majors would take a little while. That was in large part because, while having decent stuff, he had some issues with control. In all of his first four seasons in the minors, he walked at least 4.1 batters per nine innings, including 27 in 48 innings in his first taste of Triple-A in 1975.

Clay started to get his control under, well, control, in 1976, and he followed that with an excellent start in ‘77. In 10 starts with Triple-A Syracuse, Clay went 5-1 with a 1.68 ERA in 75 innings. That got him a call-up to the big leagues for his first taste of The Show. Manager Billy Martin gave Clay his debut on June 7, 1977 in the eighth inning of a game the Yankees were trailing against the Rangers. Clay allowed one single in a scoreless frame, keeping the Yankees in it with a chance in the ninth, though nothing came of it.

For the year, Clay would make 21 appearances for the Yankees in 1977, including three starts. He went on to appear in the Yankees’ two World Series losses, but he pitched decently in them, earning a ring as the Yankees defeated the Dodgers, 4-2.

The following season, Clay went into the year hoping to win a spot in the Yankees’ roster, or even the rotation. However, the Yankees acquired a number of more veteran pitchers, dampening those chances. Clay began to show some frustrations over that, to the irritation of some of his veteran Yankee teammates. The generally easygoing Catfish Hunter even said that Clay had a “great arm, great slider, bad brains,” remarking that advice from him and other more experienced pitchers often went ignored.

On the field, Clay finally seemed to figure out his walk issues, but was still a bit below average, posting a 4.28 ERA. However, once again, he was good enough to merit a postseason roster spot, where he showed his potential. In Game 1 of the 1978 ALCS against the Royals, Clay threw 3.2 hitless innings out of the bullpen. He was credited with a save as he kept the Royals in check, allowing the Yankees to build and then maintain a lead. He had a less successful appearance in the World Series, but the Yankees again defeated the Dodgers, earning Clay another ring.

As the calendar turned to 1979, Clay’s frustrations about his role continued, but this time around, he was running out of positive marks to point to. Again in a swingman role, Clay posted a 5.40 ERA in in 78.1 innings.

Things fully came to a head on September 1, 1979. Having been given a 5-0 lead in the bottom of the first in a game against the Royals, Clay ended up surrendering four runs on five hits and a walk, lasting just 2.1 innings, getting removed from the game by manager Billy Martin after allowing a home run to George Brett. Kansas City ended up winning the game 9-8, despite the Yankees’ big early lead. Adding to that, Clay didn’t stick around after being removed and left the dugout in frustration.

After the game, Clay was the subject of ire from not only Martin, but also Steinbrenner. As was his wont, the Yankees’ owner did not mince words about Clay, saying:

Clay has continually complained about not getting a chance to pitch, but he has refused any of our suggestions to help his pitching. I’ve heard people tell me what a great arm he has, but I question his heart. In horse racing, we have what we call a morning glory. The horse works a great three or four furlongs in the morning workout and looks sensational. Then when the race comes he starts sweating during the parade to the post, and when he gets in the gate and the race starts he stinks the place out. He spits the bit.

Clay was relegated to just one bullpen appearance for the rest of the ‘79 season, and began the following season in the minors. With the 1980 Yankees looking for pitching they could count on more, they added future Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry in a trade with the Rangers on August 14th. With the still-intriguing Clay pitching well in the minors, he was a featured name going the other way.

However, his fortunes didn’t really change in Texas as despite now getting an extended chance in the rotation, he posted a 4.60 ERA and also walked 29 batters in 43 innings. After the season, the Rangers included him in a 11-player deal with the Mariners. He still struggled there in 1981, and was released in March 1982. Clay never really attempted to catch on anywhere else after that, ending his baseball career at just 27 years old. Following his playing career, Clay dealt with a number of legal issues. He eventually settled back in his native Lynchburg, where he lived until his recent passing, just before his 72nd birthday.

There is a saying that there’s “no such thing as a pitching prospect,” and considering what happened to Clay, George Steinbrenner may have taken that to heart a little too much.

See more of the “Yankees Birthday of the Day” series here.

As we here at Pinstripe Alley continue to do our daily feature highlighting a Yankee birthday of the day, we’re probably going to come upon situations where someone we write about happens to have been in the news recently. In today’s case, it was for a sad reason.

Today’s birthday is Ken Clay, who sadly passed away just over a week ago. Even before that news, he was set to feature as today’s birthday honoree, so let’s offer our best wishes to his family and loved ones on his 72nd birthday.

Kenneth Earl “Ken” Clay
Born: April 6, 1954 (Lynchburg, VA)
Died: March 26, 2026 (Lynchburg, VA)
Yankees Tenure: 1977-79

Born on April 6, 1954, Clay was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia where he made his name at E.C. Glass High School. A multi-sport star and five-letter athlete, Clay excelled on the baseball diamond, leading to the Yankees selecting him in the second round of the 1972 MLB Draft.

Right from the start in the Yankees’ minor league system, Clay showed talent and was dubbed an “outstanding” pitching prospect, but his path to the majors would take a little while. That was in large part because, while having decent stuff, he had some issues with control. In all of his first four seasons in the minors, he walked at least 4.1 batters per nine innings, including 27 in 48 innings in his first taste of Triple-A in 1975.

Clay started to get his control under, well, control, in 1976, and he followed that with an excellent start in ‘77. In 10 starts with Triple-A Syracuse, Clay went 5-1 with a 1.68 ERA in 75 innings. That got him a call-up to the big leagues for his first taste of The Show. Manager Billy Martin gave Clay his debut on June 7, 1977 in the eighth inning of a game the Yankees were trailing against the Rangers. Clay allowed one single in a scoreless frame, keeping the Yankees in it with a chance in the ninth, though nothing came of it.

For the year, Clay would make 21 appearances for the Yankees in 1977, including three starts. He went on to appear in the Yankees’ two World Series losses, but he pitched decently in them, earning a ring as the Yankees defeated the Dodgers, 4-2.

The following season, Clay went into the year hoping to win a spot in the Yankees’ roster, or even the rotation. However, the Yankees acquired a number of more veteran pitchers, dampening those chances. Clay began to show some frustrations over that, to the irritation of some of his veteran Yankee teammates. The generally easygoing Catfish Hunter even said that Clay had a “great arm, great slider, bad brains,” remarking that advice from him and other more experienced pitchers often went ignored.

On the field, Clay finally seemed to figure out his walk issues, but was still a bit below average, posting a 4.28 ERA. However, once again, he was good enough to merit a postseason roster spot, where he showed his potential. In Game 1 of the 1978 ALCS against the Royals, Clay threw 3.2 hitless innings out of the bullpen. He was credited with a save as he kept the Royals in check, allowing the Yankees to build and then maintain a lead. He had a less successful appearance in the World Series, but the Yankees again defeated the Dodgers, earning Clay another ring.

As the calendar turned to 1979, Clay’s frustrations about his role continued, but this time around, he was running out of positive marks to point to. Again in a swingman role, Clay posted a 5.40 ERA in in 78.1 innings.

Things fully came to a head on September 1, 1979. Having been given a 5-0 lead in the bottom of the first in a game against the Royals, Clay ended up surrendering four runs on five hits and a walk, lasting just 2.1 innings, getting removed from the game by manager Billy Martin after allowing a home run to George Brett. Kansas City ended up winning the game 9-8, despite the Yankees’ big early lead. Adding to that, Clay didn’t stick around after being removed and left the dugout in frustration.

After the game, Clay was the subject of ire from not only Martin, but also Steinbrenner. As was his wont, the Yankees’ owner did not mince words about Clay, saying:

Clay has continually complained about not getting a chance to pitch, but he has refused any of our suggestions to help his pitching. I’ve heard people tell me what a great arm he has, but I question his heart. In horse racing, we have what we call a morning glory. The horse works a great three or four furlongs in the morning workout and looks sensational. Then when the race comes he starts sweating during the parade to the post, and when he gets in the gate and the race starts he stinks the place out. He spits the bit.

Clay was relegated to just one bullpen appearance for the rest of the ‘79 season, and began the following season in the minors. With the 1980 Yankees looking for pitching they could count on more, they added future Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry in a trade with the Rangers on August 14th. With the still-intriguing Clay pitching well in the minors, he was a featured name going the other way.

However, his fortunes didn’t really change in Texas as despite now getting an extended chance in the rotation, he posted a 4.60 ERA and also walked 29 batters in 43 innings. After the season, the Rangers included him in a 11-player deal with the Mariners. He still struggled there in 1981, and was released in March 1982. Clay never really attempted to catch on anywhere else after that, ending his baseball career at just 27 years old. Following his playing career, Clay dealt with a number of legal issues. He eventually settled back in his native Lynchburg, where he lived until his recent passing, just before his 72nd birthday.

There is a saying that there’s “no such thing as a pitching prospect,” and considering what happened to Clay, George Steinbrenner may have taken that to heart a little too much.

See more of the “Yankees Birthday of the Day” series here.