MLB Spring Training News

As March moves along, we have the NHL and NBA heading towards the playoffs, March Madness filling out, and soccer in full swing.  The sports book is wide open with events, and soon will offer more as we are only weeks away from Major League Baseball Opening Day.  There are several intriguing storylines developing as April draws near.

A couple youngsters are making waves.  Firstly, the pitching phenomena Stephen Strasburg has made his debut in Washington and the high expectations seem to have been met so far. In his first appearance, the 21 year old with the lightning fast ball pitched two scoreless innings against the Detroit Tigers, with a couple of singles, and two strikeouts. Miguel Cabrera faced the rookie, and never put the ball in play, asserting what others have said in that Strasburg is for real.  While the Nationals have said he will start in the minors, he may not stay for long. Look for the rookie to get his opportunity early this season, and look for him to be dominate.

On to another rookie, the Atlanta Braves have a star in the making. Outfielder Jason Heyward is a 6’6’’ 20 year old that has been amazing players and journalists in batting practice already with his incredibly power.  He has been touted as the future of the Braves, and is definitely someone to watch out for as he makes his Major League debut.

Tough news out of Minnesota, where Twins closer Joe Nathan has torn a ligament in his elbow, and will miss the beginning of the season, and may require season ending surgery. This is a huge blow for a contending Twins team that has had Nathan as a reliable closer since 2004.  The strong right hander has been arguably the most important player on a Twins team that also features Justin Morneau and Joe Mauer. Last year Minnesota was able to recover despite injuries to their top sluggers.  Without a set closer, however, the Twins are in danger of losing many games late.

In Cleveland, the Indians are looking to bounce back from a very disappointing year, and one player in particular is looking to lead the way, but from a different position.  Outfielder Grady Sizemore is looking to return to the form that saw him go to three all-star games between 2005 and 2008. Sizemore is moving one spot down from the leadoff position to the two spot. Short stop Asdrubal Cabrera will lead off for the Indians, and try to get on base for Sizemore to do what he struggled with last year.  He is entering his seventh season with the Indians, and looking to stay healthy after a year struggling with injuries.  So far he has looked good, and looked comfortable in his role with Cleveland.

With baseball nearing, there is a lot of opportunity to gamble on games.  Check out sports book reviews to get comfortable and make the most winnings.  With the NHL, NBA, soccer, and now being the time to bet on March Madness, there is plenty to keep the sports enthusiast busy.