Maybe a little nudge will do it. Suggestion is said to be a powerful thing. If one guy gets things started, we might have an avalanche of deals. Can't hurt to try. We understand that things get a bit more complicated for unsigned free agents after Spring Training camps start. Lots of teams want to take a look at their best prospects before signing an older free agent.

Remember when Juan Soto was thought to be at least a year away when the Nationals summoned him to the big leagues last year? His success prompts every team to take a second and third look at its own youngsters. On the other hand, this market is still so flush with talent that every team has avenues to improvement. So let's nudge things along with some ideas about where nine of the top free agents would fit.

1. Manny Machado to the White Sox
Machado would be a nice fit almost anywhere. He's 26 years old and coming off a four-year stretch in which he averaged 159 games, 36 home runs and an .856 OPS. But the White Sox feel like an ideal fit because they are filled with near-MLB-ready talent, and Machado would give them a face-of-the-franchise cornerstone to build around. His presence would allow the kids to become acclimated to the Majors while he's the main focus of attention.

• The latest Machado free-agent rumors

Video: Machado is No. 14 on MLB Network's Top 100 Right Now

2. Bryce Harper to the Giants
Harper would make every team way better, and while the Phillies seem to be the favorite, it's easy to see the Padres, Nationals and a long list of others landing him. The Giants may be a late entry into the Harper sweepstakes, but they've been discussing him internally for more than a year. His arrival would immediately insert the Giants back into the middle of the postseason conversation.

• The latest Harper free-agent rumors

Video: Harper is No. 15 on MLB Network's Top 100 Right Now

3. Dallas Keuchel to the Braves
Let's not overthink things. The Braves were one of baseball's most exciting teams in 2018 and appeared to be poised to be a powerhouse for the foreseeable future. What they do not have is a veteran at the front of their rotation. At 31, Keuchel is that and more. In the last five seasons, he's fifth in the American League in ERA and sixth in innings and FanGraphs' version of WAR. In that time, his 23.3 percent soft-contact rate is the best among all AL starters.

• The latest Keuchel free-agent rumors

4. Craig Kimbrel to the Astros
With Kimbrel, the challenge isn't to find a perfect fit, but to find one that's not a perfect fit. He could elevate virtually every team, including the Red Sox, Cubs, Braves and Cardinals. The Astros had baseball's best bullpen and were strengthened during the season with the additions of Roberto Osuna and Ryan Pressly at the Trade Deadline. Signing Kimbrel would allow the Astros to keep pace with the Yankees' super bullpen and also shore up a potential area of weakness with Collin McHugh headed back to the rotation and veteran Joe Smith out for the season.

• The latest Kimbrel free-agent rumors

Video: Craig Kimbrel is the No. 1 relief pitcher right now

5. Marwin Gonzalez to the Twins
He's not a utility player. Over the last three seasons he has averaged 528 plate appearances for an Astros team that had the third-most regular-season wins in the Majors. He's a utility player only because he has the mentality to play all over the diamond. Some teams aren't signing him because they're uncertain if they'd have enough at-bats for him. That's silly. There's always playing time for a guy like this. The Twins could have a fairly set lineup, but Gonzalez is an insurance policy for the things that don't go right.

• The latest Gonzalez free-agent rumors

6. Mike Moustakas to the Padres
The Padres could land either Harper or Machado, but Moustakas would be a nice fit. He and Eric Hosmer would be solid mentors for all that young talent that's on the way. The Brewers would also make sense for Moustakas after he helped them win the National League Central after being acquired last summer.

• The latest Moustakas free-agent rumors

7. Gio Gonzalez to the Mets
The Mets need rotation depth and not much else. Last season, teams gave eight starting pitchers an average of five starts, so while the Mets have a very good front four, history says they're going to need a lot more than that. Gonzalez was excellent down the stretch for the Brewers in 2018 and is two seasons removed from pitching 201 innings with a 2.96 ERA for the Nationals.

Video: DET@MIL: Gonzalez tosses 5 scoreless innings

8. Adam Jones to the Nationals
Jones would be a solid addition to the outfield depth on a franchise that is good enough to win a World Series. Also, he would provide that intangible leadership thing that those of us on the outside can't quantify. He was huge in helping the Orioles return to respectability, and it's hard not to see a renaissance at the age of 33.

9. Clay Buchholz to the Yankees
Buchholz spent 10 seasons with the Red Sox, so he understands the dynamics of the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry. He proved last summer with the D-backs that when he's healthy, he's still capable of pitching at a high level. He would provide the Yankees with depth both in the rotation and bullpen. He would be a nice finishing touch for a very good offseason.

It's already been a busy offseason for the Phillies, who have upgraded by trading for J.T. Realmuto and Jean Segura, and signing Andrew McCutchen and David Robertson.

But many feel there is still a big piece missing.

That would be Bryce Harper or Manny Machado, the two highest-profile free agents, both of whom remain available and both of whom have been connected to Philadelphia throughout the offseason. Looking at Harper specifically, MLB.com's Mark Feinsand recently named the Phillies as one of two favorites to land the slugger, along with the National League East-rival Nationals.

• The latest Harper free-agent rumors

Washington is the only franchise Harper has known, but the Phillies might have the greater need and the stronger motivation. Speaking Thursday at Phillies camp in Clearwater, Fla., general manager Matt Klentak said his club will "continue to explore" signing another prominent free agent, such as Harper or Machado, and expressed his belief that the Phillies have "put our best foot forward with those guys so far."

With that context, let's take a look at what would happen if the Phillies did sign Harper -- just as we did for the Yankees earlier this week.

Where would he play?
By shipping off Carlos Santana in the Segura trade, the Phillies also opened up first base for Rhys Hoskins, who should be more comfortable defensively there. They then signed McCutchen to fill left field. That leaves a crowd of outfielders competing at the other two spots, primarily Odubel Herrera, Nick Williams, Roman Quinn and Aaron Altherr.

Harper, should he sign, most likely would slide into right field, next to Herrera and McCutchen. That could displace Williams, acquired in the Cole Hamels trade, who over two Major League seasons has yet to establish himself as an indispensable piece. Since Herrera and Quinn are the best options in center, it's possible such a move could force a trade of Williams.

Video: McCutchen excited to join promising Phillies

Where would he hit?
McCutchen, Realmuto and Segura all have strengthened a Phillies lineup that last season ranked 22nd in the Majors with a .707 OPS and tied for 21st with 677 runs scored. Even so, it's still not a group that is necessarily heavy on power, with only Hoskins having a recent 30-homer season.

Hoskins also bats right-handed, while Herrera and Williams are the only pure left-handed batters in the current projected lineup. Harper could slide right into the middle of the order, pairing with Hoskins as a one-two, left-right slugging combo. Here's how that might look:

1. Cesar Hernandez, 2B
2. Andrew McCutchen, LF
3. J.T. Realmuto, C
4. Bryce Harper, RF
5. Rhys Hoskins, 1B
6. Odubel Herrera, CF
7. Maikel Franco, 3B
8. Jean Segura, SS
9. Pitcher's spot

That's just one possibility, but manager Gabe Kapler would have no shortage of options. Segura could swap with Hernandez or join him at the top of the lineup. McCutchen could hit leadoff or move below the Realmuto-Harper-Hoskins trio, although his strength over the past two seasons has been patient at-bats and OBPs over .360. Whatever the exact order, Harper would be the centerpiece.

Video: WSH@PHI: Harper rips a 111-mph homer off Aaron Nola

How would this affect 2019 projections?
The Phillies are exactly the sort of team that could use another significant infusion of talent. The Steamer projections available at FanGraphs have them at .500 in 2019, in fourth place in the NL East but just behind the Braves (82 wins) and Mets (85). Philly is part of a crowd of nine NL clubs projected at between 79 and 86 wins -- the latter figure good for the top Wild Card spot.

It's a similar story with Baseball Prospectus' PECOTA projections, where the Phillies fare a bit better (85-77) but still are tied for third in the division with the Braves, one of 10 teams between 80 wins and the 88 necessary for a Wild Card berth.

The point is, Philly is in a place where every additional victory could significantly affect its chances of qualifying for the postseason for the first time since 2011.

Harper is projected for roughly 5 wins above replacement (WAR), according to Steamer, while slashing .267/.399/.528 with 34 home runs. Meanwhile, even assuming 600 plate appearances each, Williams, Quinn and Altherr all project for less than 1 WAR. In other words, bringing Harper to Citizens Bank Park easily could mean a boost of four or five wins -- enough to push the Phillies from hopeful to favorite for a Wild Card spot, and into serious contention for the NL East.

Video: Gammons on Phillies' outlook at Spring Training

What are some other long-term ramifications?
In terms of the Competitive Balance Tax, the Phillies still have plenty of room to operate without incurring any sort of penalty. The threshold for 2019 is $206 million, and Philadelphia currently stands at about $166 million, according to Roster Resource.

Furthermore, the only players the club is firmly committed to beyond 2021 are Aaron Nola, Scott Kingery and Segura, though Herrera, McCutchen and Jake Arrieta also will be retainable via team options. In the short term, the Phillies can accommodate an expensive contract. In the long term, they have flexibility and can build around Harper, Nola and Hoskins.

However, the Phillies would have to consider Harper's outfield defense, which rated quite poorly last season by advanced metrics. While there is reason to think Harper will bounce back in the short term, that defense could become an issue again over the course of a lengthy contract, especially if Hoskins becomes entrenched at first base -- unless the NL adopts the designated hitter by that point.

PEORIA, Ariz. -- While Mariners fans and baseball followers across the globe ponder whether the ageless Ichiro Suzuki can and will play beyond Seattle's two-game Opening Series in Tokyo next month, the man himself prefers not to let his mind venture that far down the road.

:: Spring Training coverage presented by Camping World ::

Ichiro has reached a point where few ballplayers have dared to dream, competing for a roster spot at age 45 for the franchise that gave him his first shot in the Major Leagues in 2001. But there's a reason he checked in after Mariners physicals this weekend with the lowest body fat of any player in camp at 7 percent.

The laser focus that has driven Ichiro throughout his career now keeps him zeroed in on getting to Japan for those two games against the A's on March 20-21, an opportunity general manager Jerry Dipoto has promised, as long as he proves he's healthy this spring.

Beyond that?

"I think a 45-year-old baseball player really shouldn't be thinking about the future," Ichiro said through long-time interpreter Allen Turner after the Mariners' first full-squad workout of the spring on Saturday. "It's about today. I'm very satisfied with today and how it went. I'm just going to take it day by day."

Video: Servais praises Ichiro's work ethic with Mariners

Ichiro's combined hit total of 4,367 over 27 seasons between Japan and MLB is the most of any player in history. He's not ready to stop yet, though the Mariners seem unlikely to extend his career beyond the Tokyo series given they've committed this season to building for the future with young players.

Ichiro certainly doesn't fit that mold, but Dipoto's respect for his place in the history of the Mariners and the game of baseball led him to offer the venerable veteran a job as "assistant to the chairman" last year, so Ichiro could finish the final five months of the season working out with the club and remaining part of the team even after he was removed from the 40-man roster.

At that time, the Mariners let Ichiro know he'd be welcome to return to Spring Training this year and compete again for a roster spot and the opportunity to play in Tokyo to start the season. Ichiro trained diligently with the team the remainder of the season, took 2-3 days off after it ended and then resumed working out at the level he knew it would take for his body to compete at his age.

"It's just about doing the best you can and then doing that over and over," Ichiro said of his training methods. "Whatever that is, you get to your limit and you just do that over and over. That's how I think you can do that."

That regimen has allowed the 2001 American League MVP to come full circle. He believes the Mariners' uniform will be the last one he wears as a ballplayer, and he treasured the chance to suit up again Saturday and take his place in workouts and the batting cage.

"Going through what I experienced last year and being able to put on the Seattle Mariners uniform as a player, being here the first day, it's just amazing," he said. "It's just great. I felt that today."

What he couldn't do was say exactly how much that uniform and the city of Seattle mean to him. He stopped and started after getting that question, his eyes appearing to tear up, before simply telling Turner there was no easy answer.

"If I said the reasons, I don't want it to come off as a small or light reason, something that is not serious," he said. "That's how much I think it's better off not to say. I want it to mean a lot. I don't think words can say how I feel."

• Mariners Spring Training tickets | Schedule | Buy gear

Mariners manager Scott Servais, only six years older than Ichiro at 51, marvels at the fitness and preparation that allows the veteran outfielder to even contend for a Major League roster spot.

"It's unbelievable," Servais said. "He takes it as serious as anybody in that room. That's what has allowed him to keep playing all these years. He'll be out there running around and have as much energy, if not more, than the rest of the guys. It's just how he's wired.

"We'll get him ready to go. He's always ready. He's working out almost every day of the year. It's just what makes Ichiro, Ichiro. He'll be a great example for our young players. Our young guys are going to be blown away, like, 'This guy is how old? How long has he been doing this?' That's why he's the greatest. He's awesome."

Ichiro acknowledged he felt a little pang when talking with three-time All-Star outfielder Jay Bruce at the batting cage and learning the veteran is still only 31.

"He's 14 years younger than me," Ichiro said. "I was pretty shocked about that."

Indeed, Ichiro is pretty much in a class of his own. And he's not ready to graduate just yet.

As his media session came to an end, Ichiro was asked if his goal was still to play until he's 50?

"At least," he said with a sly smile.

TAMPA, Fla. -- The statistical achievements have accumulated throughout CC Sabathia's meritorious career, but he has never seemed interested in studying the back of his baseball card. Through 18 seasons in the big leagues, the big left-hander's main objective has been to serve as a positive influence for the teams that he has pitched for.

As the other members of the Yankees' roster filtered into a pavilion outside George M. Steinbrenner Field, filling six rows of seats in support of the hurler's big announcement, it was clear that Sabathia has achieved that and much more. The 38-year-old formally confirmed on Saturday afternoon that he plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2019 season.

:: Spring Training coverage presented by Camping World ::

"All I ever wanted for people to remember me was as a good teammate," said Sabathia. "I look forward to 2019 being a championship season for us, and I'm going to give everything I have and leave it out on the field."

Flanked by his wife, Amber, and three of their four children, Sabathia thanked his family, his mother Margie, the Steinbrenner family, general manager Brian Cashman and teammates past and present for their help in achieving his dreams.

"CC has been a great ambassador for our game and we are proud that he has represented our organization for the past decade," said Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner. "CC has always been a pillar in our clubhouse, and we look forward to him further cementing his impressive legacy this season and contributing to our championship goals."

Video: Sabathia discusses retiring after the 2019 season

A six-time All-Star who won the 2007 American League Cy Young Award with the Indians, carried the Brewers to the '08 postseason and hoisted the '09 World Series trophy with the Yankees, Sabathia will enter his final campaign with a 246-153 (.617) record. He stands 14 strikeouts shy of becoming the 17th member of baseball's 3,000-strikeout club.

"I think he's a Hall of Famer," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. "I think the years of dominance, the years of being completely relevant, 18 years in and still being a really good pitcher in this league. To have racked up the numbers that he has, I think he is a Hall of Famer, and I think he will get in."

• Taking stock of CC's HOF credentials

Sabathia was 9-7 with a 3.65 ERA in 29 starts last season, and he made his decision to retire early in the offseason, telling agent Kyle Thousand that there was only one team he wanted to play for. Sabathia is recovering from arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, the third straight year he has required a cleanup, as well as an angioplasty performed in December.

"Why now? It's time," Sabathia said, with a laugh. "My knee, just the shape that it's in. My kids are getting older. It's time for me to be with them and be around them. My oldest son [Carsten] couldn't be here, because he's playing high school sports. There's a lot of stuff that I'm missing."

Sabathia said that he is looking forward to driving the family minivan and shuttling the kids to activities, offering a helping hand to his wife.

"I have been cheering for him for 22 years -- Kingston and Akron, all that stuff," Amber Sabathia said. "We've been cheering for so many years, so I'm excited for him to cheer for us. I run, so he can be at the finish line for me and he can go to Carter's basketball games all the time and not miss any of the girls' dance recitals. He can just cheer us on for a little bit."

Video: Sabathia's family looks forward to his retirement

Sabathia's announcement elicited messages of congratulations from a who's-who of the sports world. Derek Jeter said that Sabathia "embodies what it means to be a professional athlete," while Jorge Posada said that Sabathia "was perfect in big games and even more perfect in being there for his teammates."

Andy Pettitte, Joe Girardi and A.J. Burnett offered laudatory statements, as did Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, rap/hip-hop artist Fat Joe, mayor Bob Sampayan of Vallejo, Calif., former Indians teammate Jim Thome and former NFL star Tiki Barber. Sabathia said he'd look forward to reading them, and he hoped that he would not cry.

Also chiming in was LeBron James, the Lakers forward and four-time NBA Most Valuable Player Award winner, whom Sabathia befriended during their time as Cleveland icons.

"I want to congratulate CC on an incredible Major League career," James said. "Not only is he one of the best pitchers to ever play the game, but he'll also go down as one of the great competitors to ever pick up a baseball. His genuine love of the game and his undeniable passion have brought so much joy to fans for 19 seasons. It's been an honor to watch him play and I'm excited to see what he'll take on next. Congrats, my friend."

Borrowing a page from Mariano Rivera, whose 2013 retirement became a source of league-wide celebration, Sabathia plans to give back this summer. When Sabathia makes his final visit to each American League city (plus San Francisco), his PitCCh In Foundation will host 52 members of the Boys & Girls Clubs, which he said was instrumental in helping him reach the Majors.

Tweet from @Yankees: One man's #LegaCCy. pic.twitter.com/Oooh3RnPsw

"CC believes that if it wasn't for the Club, he wouldn't be here today," Amber Sabathia said. "This last year, we really want to be impactful and give back. To be able to do that in every city, we feel like it's a great way for CC to leave his legacy."

The last of those outings is set for Sept. 27 in Arlington, but Sabathia hopes that he will remain busy for about a month more. The perfect conclusion to bookend his time with the Yankees, he said, would be another parade through the Canyon of Heroes -- just as he enjoyed in Fall 2009.

"It's been a great ride," Sabathia said. "Being able to win the World Series, open up the new Stadium, there's just so many countless different memories that I have and can take back with me throughout the years of being a Yankee. It's been great."

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The names of Manny Ramirez and Miguel Cabrera have been evoked when searching for comparisons involving Eloy Jimenez, the No. 1 White Sox prospect per MLB Pipeline and No. 3 overall in baseball.

But right-hander Michael Kopech, the team's No. 2 prospect and Jimenez's teammate with Triple-A Charlotte in 2018 and with the White Sox in the years to come, has a more definitive reference for the power-packed outfielder.

"I told a few of you guys this, but I look at him as the Babe Ruth of our generation," said Kopech. "He's going to be OK."

:: Spring Training coverage presented by Camping World ::

"Yeah, he told me that in Triple-A," said a smiling Jimenez, who met with the media after Saturday's workout at Camelback Ranch. "I feel proud and blessed. I think [Kopech] is the Nolan Ryan of our era."

Before Jimenez is anointed with Hall of Fame stature, it's important to once again remember the 22-year-old has yet to take a Major League at-bat. But, yes, he has can't-miss talent, the sort of immense ability with the possibility to carry a franchise or become the rebuild fulcrum at the very least.

Video: Renteria, Jimenez on growth; Kopech on recovery

• Palka slims down, works on D over offseason

Hearing his name mentioned with the likes of Ruth, Cabrera and Ramirez doesn't seem to bother Jimenez. He has an even-keel demeanor, which is quite possibly as important as his ability to hit to all fields with authority.

"It's not pressure for me because I don't really think about it," Jimenez said. "I just try to work hard and be ready for the moment. Assuming I get there, I'm going to keep doing what I've been doing all my career. I always say I'm ready."

After producing a combined slash line of .337/.384/.577 between 2018 stops with Triple-A Charlotte and Double-A Birmingham, to go with 28 doubles, 22 home runs and 75 RBIs in 108 games, Jimenez did not receive a September callup to the Majors. He has spoken on a number of occasions about being a little bit disappointed over not getting the nod but added Saturday he won't be that disappointed if he begins '19 at Charlotte.

White Sox director of player development Chris Getz praised Jimenez at SoxFest for his offseason conditioning, with Jimenez coming to his second big league camp in great shape. Jimenez explained his diet switch of going from fast food and burgers to broccoli and salmon.

Although it was just batting practice coming a few days before position players even have to arrive in camp, Jimenez's Saturday work was made up of must-see swings. He took Minor League field coordinator Doug Sisson deep twice to left-center on consecutive pitches and then ripped a line drive to right-center in one session.

Video: MLB Network on talent of No. 3 prospect Eloy Jimenez

Not only does Jimenez possess raw talent, but he seems to have a set plan with whatever he's doing. It's a trait shown by many of the game's best hitters and knowledge he often shares with other young players as shown by his talk with outfielder Luis Alexander Basabe, the club's No. 9 prospect, two days ago in the batting cages.

"If I can help, if I see something wrong, I can give advice," Jimenez said. "That's important for me because we are a family and we need to take care of each other. If I know something, I'll let them know."

"That's the uniqueness of Eloy. He is pretty advanced," manager Rick Renteria said. "He's a really good player, and I think he's got people who will be able to help him transition to the Major Leagues in a very confident, positive way."

Renteria plans to use Jimenez primarily in left during Cactus League action but also will play him in right. It could be the start of a special season for Jimenez, with winning American League Rookie of the Year on his agenda.

"It's one of my goals," Jimenez said. "But what's important right now is get to the Majors first."

DUNEDIN, Fla. -- The Blue Jays' biggest star arrived Saturday morning when top prospect Vladimir Guerrero Jr. officially reported to Spring Training.

Guerrero is scheduled to undergo his physical Sunday, which is the mandatory report date for all position players. The Blue Jays will then hold their first full-squad workout Monday, but Guerrero wanted to get started a little bit early.

:: Spring Training coverage presented by Camping World ::

Within a couple hours of his arrival, Guerrero was on the field taking ground balls alongside Brandon Drury at third base. The two infielders are technically competing for the starting job at third but the logical assumption is that Drury will be there on Opening Day before turning things over to Guerrero a few weeks later.

"He's pretty great," Blue Jays hitting coach Guillermo Martinez said of Guerrero. "He's focused. He loves to play the game. He comes in every single day under control. He knows what he wants."

Guerrero, the No. 1 prospect in baseballl according to MLB Pipeline, took part in a few rounds of batting practice and hit at least one ball out of the park. The Dominican native is expected to speak to the media Monday for the first time this spring as he sets out to begin his first full Major League Spring Training.

Tweet from @gregorMLB: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. batting practice. #BlueJays pic.twitter.com/Extcalu7uP

Martinez used one word to describe Guerrero's batting practice: "Professional." That probably sounds cliche, but it's the perfect way to describe Guerrero's approach once Martinez explains exactly what that term means.

"Focused, not just taking swings," Martinez said. "Understanding what they're trying to do with their bodies. Understanding how they're trying to hit the ball. What direction they're trying to hit the ball and staying consistent doing that.

"You can see guys who swing the bat just to swing the bat and break a sweat. Vladdy, and not just Vladdy, but a lot of guys came out here and showed how they prepared the entire offseason."

Tweet from @MLB: We could watch Vlad Jr. crush all day. pic.twitter.com/rZlUMKTjK9

One down, many more to go

Right-hander Marcus Stroman threw his first official bullpen session of the spring Saturday afternoon and it contained all of the quirks that many people have come to expect from his delivery. There were pauses, hitches, delays and anything he could use to alternate the timing of his pitches. A couple of reporters even spotted Stroman throwing sidearm.

In other words, it might as well be Opening Day in some ways, because Stroman is already throwing everything at the wall.

"I think it works," Blue Jays manager Charlie Montoyo said of the quick pitches. "When I was coaching third base [in Tampa Bay], every time I went by, I felt like saying something to him because it bothered me that much. But I think it works. Of course, at the end of the day, you have to have the stuff to get people out. But I think it messes with people's timing and it works for him."

Roster shuffling

John Axford's Minor League deal, which was announced Saturday morning, will make it a lot harder for another non-roster invitee to crack the 25-man roster at the end of camp. MLB.com took a shot at predicting Toronto's roster just before the start of Spring Training and the addition of Axford has already led to a change.

The new prediction for the bullpen would include: Ken Giles, Ryan Tepera, Tim Mayza, David Paulino, Elvis Luciano, Jacob Waguespack, Joe Biagini and Axford. The previous list included Mark Leiter Jr., who now gets left off following Axford's arrival. Toronto might not be done adding to the roster, and if David Phelps (underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018) is ready for Opening Day, that will complicate things even further.

"This is where I wanted to be, and fortunately the terms and everything worked out that way," Axford said.

Quotable

"The biggest thing for me is just the sound. When he's hitting, you don't even have to look, you know it's coming off the bat a little bit different. He's a great kid, though. He has fun, he smiles, he works his butt off. I'm looking forward to working with him." -- Blue Jays infielder Devon Travis talking about the sound of the ball coming off Guerrero's bat.

TAMPA, Fla. -- Now that Luis Severino and the Yankees were able to avoid salary arbitration and find common ground on a four-year, $40 million contract extension, could Aaron Judge or Gary Sanchez be the next "Baby Bombers" to cash in?

Managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner has said that he is cognizant of the future cost of retaining stars like Judge, Sanchez, Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar. Though he declined to name specific players, general manager Brian Cashman confirmed that he has proposed deals similar to Severino's to others on the roster.

"We've approached certain players," Cashman said. "We are always open for the right people to do things and find common ground, if that's at all possible. We've had conversations with some, but not all. If they lead to [multi-year deals], great. This one did. Attempts so far have failed."

Judge will become arbitration-eligible next offseason, and given his standing as the new face of the franchise, it has been suggested that the Yankees could attempt to buy out his arbitration years as the Angels did with Mike Trout (six years, $144.5 million) in March 2014.

"I like to pay players what they're worth," Cashman said. "I think Sevy described this as a fair deal. This is one where we take a risk, he gets cost certainty and guaranteed dollars -- regardless of what transpires moving forward -- and he has a chance to go back into free agency down the line. I think it's a win-win for all parties."

Video: MLB Tonight: Details of Severino's 4-year extension

In recent months, Cashman has said that the Yankees were internally discussing new pacts with Dellin Betances, Didi Gregorius and Aaron Hicks, all of whom are eligible for free agency after this season.

"Everything is connected," Cashman said. "Now our payroll has continued to increase. We're preparing for that as these players who we think are very special continue their journeys. Hopefully we have a lot of success for our fans because of it."

Making calls, taking calls

Yankees position players are scheduled to report to George M. Steinbrenner Field on Monday, and though it does not appear that Bryce Harper or Manny Machado will be among them, Cashman did not completely slam the door when asked about the pair of superstar free agents.

"I wouldn't say specifically, but I would reinforce, I'm doing my job," Cashman said. "Whether that's those two players or other players that aren't as significant name value, the job at hand is to constantly be open-minded to ways to make this work the best it can possibly work. ... We like what we've done to this point, but we're never a finished product."

Ellsbury delay

Jacoby Ellsbury (plantar fasciitis) is unable to run on flat ground, and he is not expected to arrive in Yankees camp until at least mid-March, Cashman said, which means that the veteran outfielder is likely to begin the regular season on the injured list.

Cashman said that Ellsbury has been working out for six to eight hours each day at the Exos facility in Phoenix, where he is receiving one-on-one physical therapy under the supervision of Michael Schuk, the team's assistant athletic trainer and physical therapist.

"We're in constant communication," Cashman said. "[Schuk] was able to physically assess where he's at and make the recommendation for us. I think flying him here will slow it down. ... There still is an expectation that he'll be able to return to full activities and hopefully show us and our fan base the player he's capable of being, when his body allows."

I see you

Trevor Stephan was a late invitee to camp, but the 23-year-old right-hander has already impressed manager Aaron Boone. Stephan is rated as the Yankees' No. 7 prospect by MLB Pipeline.

"The stuff, the repertoire, the three pitches," Boone said. "Obviously not having seen him in person at all ... he threw to hitters. It was exciting to see one of our young guys that maybe doesn't impact our club this year, but it's a little glimpse of guys on their way."

Bombers bits

Raynel Espinal's arrival has been delayed due to a visa issue. The Dominican right-hander was 7-2 with a 3.09 ERA in 41 games (three starts) for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre last season, then pitched in the Dominican Winter League.

After a seven-season tenure with the Nationals that included a National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2012, an NL MVP Award in 2015 and six All-Star nods, Bryce Harper is now a free agent for the first time.

Below you will find a list of the latest news and rumors surrounding the outfielder.

How close is Harper to making his choice?
Feb. 16: Make of this what you will, but a report started circulating and gaining some steam Friday afternoon that Bryce Harper just might be on the verge of finding a new home.

Maybe.

In a conversation with radio station 94WIP in Philadelphia about the superstar free agent's situation, Chris Russell of 106.7 The Fan, a radio station in Washington, D.C., speculated Friday that Harper could be making up his mind very, very soon.

"Maybe I took a little bit of a leap of faith here based on some indications I got from a real good source," said Russell, who has heard that Harper and his agent, Scott Boras, as well as his wife have been meeting since Monday in his hometown of Las Vegas. "But I'm led to believe by the people that I've talked to that are close to the situation -- and I have, again, a real good source that has helped me through this process, let's just leave it at that -- that Bryce was in a mood to celebrate yesterday. Now, the source said, 'I believe it's done.'

"I don't have concrete, 100 percent proof for you guys," Russell continued. "I wish I did, otherwise I would have it and I would be running around with it. ... But that's what I was led to believe, that this thing is now decided."

To a certain extent, that meshes with information coming from former big league general manager Jim Bowden of CBS Sports HQ and The Athletic, who says the Phillies are viewed as the clear favorite for Harper, followed by the Nationals.

"I keep hearing there's a lot of momentum and traction here on [Harper] going and signing with the Philadelphia Phillies," Bowden said. "He could be rounding third and heading home shortly."

Tweet from @CBSSportsHQ: "I keep hearing there's a lot of momentum and traction here on [Bryce Harper] going and signing with the Philadelphia Phillies.He could be rounding third and heading home shortly."-@JimBowdenGM says Bryce Harper could be making his announcement very soon. pic.twitter.com/WxIFU275Zr

Meanwhile, Harper commented on an Instagram post by Phillies slugger Rhys Hoskins on Friday, which showed Hoskins walking with bat and glove at the Phillies' Spring Training complex in Clearwater, Fla. Harper's comment was "suhhhhh kiiiiiiid."

Tweet from @JClarkNBCS: Bryce Harper commenting on Rhys Hoskins Instagram!!!! 👀 🤔 #Phillies ������������🌴 pic.twitter.com/gdDiLBEUzz

The speculation indeed continues to swirl around Harper. As it does, we'll keep you up to date on the latest.

Don't count Yanks out on Harper or Machado
Feb. 16: Even as Spring Training has begun and the Yankees have already made several moves to upgrade a roster that won 100 games last year, don't count New York out when it comes to the two premier free agents remaining on the market, Bryce Harper and Manny Machado.

"I wouldn't say specifically, but I would reinforce, I'm doing my job," general manager Brian Cashman said Saturday. "Whether that's those two players or other players that aren't as significant name value, the job at hand is to constantly be open-minded to ways to make this work the best it can possibly work. ... We like what we've done to this point, but we're never a finished product."

The Yankees already have a full outfield with Brett Gardner, Aaron Hicks, Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and an injured Jacoby Ellsbury. Signing Harper would necessitate some reshuffling. With respect to Machado, the Yankees have added multiple infielders already, signing free agents Troy Tulowitzki and DJ LeMahieu. Tulowitzki is expected to open the season at shortstop as Didi Gregorius recovers from Tommy John surgery, and LeMahieu is expected to play a super-utility role.

Then again, this is the Yankees, a team that can really never be counted out on big free agents, regardless of the situation. 

Here's how Harper could fit with Yankees
Feb. 15: The Yankees have made several additions this offseason to bolster their roster ahead of another run at reaching the World Series for the first time since 2009. The club has brought in the likes of James Paxton, Adam Ottavino, Troy Tulowitzki and DJ LeMahieu and brough back J.A. Happ, CC Sabathia and Zack Britton. But is that enough to overtake the powerhouse Red Sox?

While it may be, with superstars Bryce Harper and Manny Machado still on the free-agent market, MLB.com's Mike Lupica asks: How much farther would the organization go financially to tilt the scales more sharply in its favor? Signing Harper or Machado certainly would do that, but neither will come cheap, and the Yankees already have a payroll in the $220 million range.

"Yankees fans want [owner Hal] Steinbrenner and general manager Brian Cashman to finish the job this season," Lupica writes. "[If] it turns out that they haven't spent enough, and Machado or Harper might make all the difference, Yankees fans aren't going to want to hear about how fiscally responsible the team is being." More >

Here's a look at how Harper, in particular, could fit into the Yankees' roster and lineup, courtesy of MLB.com's Andrew Simon.

Video: Harper, Machado keep Yankees on their radar

Are Phillies still front-runners for Harper or Machado?
Feb. 15: Even if the Phillies aren't necessarily the first choice for Bryce Harper or Manny Machado, will one of the superstar free agents ultimately accept Philadelphia's offer?

Buster Olney predicted as much on ESPN's "Get Up!," saying the feeling is that the White Sox are a "safety net" for both players.

With both Harper and Machado reportedly seeking contracts in the range of 10 years for more than $300 million, the two have lingered on the free agent market. But Olney thinks both players eventually will land deals between 8 and 10 years.

Meanwhile, Phillies general manager Matt Klentak indicated that he is still monitoring the open market but feels like the team accomplished its offseason goals by adding Andrew McCutchen, Jean Segura, J.T. Realmuto and David Robertson.

"I think if you look at our offseason, we have done just about everything we've set out to do," Klentak said. "At the beginning of the offseason, we identified for sure that we wanted to improve the team defense. That was a flaw of our team last year and it was something we knew we needed to address. We wanted to address our ability to get good hitters out late in the game, particularly left-handed hitters. We think we've addressed that. We've addressed our offense in a couple of key places. And now we've taken care of locking up our best young player. A lot of years, that would be a very complete, thorough and successful offseason. And I really think that it is. The notion that we hear that if we fail to sign a big free agent then it's a failure of an offseason, I don't agree with that.

"Now, I say all that, I'm not trying to throw cold water on the idea that we may still sign a free agent. We are going to continue to explore that market because there's still several really good free agents out there."

The belief in Clearwater is that the Phils' front office prefers Machado over Harper because of the former's combination of offense and defense, according to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki. However, the club remains in contact with each player's agent.

Video: Klentak discusses the free agents still on market

Which teams have the best chance at landing Harper?
Feb. 13: Bryce Harper has been connected to several teams since the offseason began, but while a few clubs have emerged to be seen as frontrunners, which teams have the best chance to land the superstar free agent? MLB.com's Mark Feinsand ranked every potential landing spot for Harper based on the likelihood that the club signs him.

The "longshots" on Feinsand's list are the Cubs, Yankees, and Giants, with San Francisco being the most recent club to join the Harper Sweepstakes by meeting with him in Las Vegas last week. The next category up is "contenders," in which Feinsand places the Padres and White Sox. San Diego is also a recent entrant into the "Harper Bazaar" as his agent, Scott Boras, called it early in the offseason, and also sent a delegation to meet with Harper. The White Sox have shown serious interest this offseason in both Harper and fellow 26-year-old free agent Manny Machado, even though Chicago is currently in the middle of a rebuild with a lot of talent in the pipeline.

Finally, in the "favorites" category are the Phillies and Harper's former team, the Nationals. Philadelphia made it no secret at the start of the offseason that it intended to spend big. Washington reportedly offered Harper a 10-year, $300 million contract at the end of last season, which he declined, but it has been reported since then that the Nats increased their offer substantially and are definitely in the running.

"The Phillies have been the odds-on favorites to land Harper and/or Machado from the outset of the offseason, and many believe they will still ultimately sign one of them," writes Feinsand. "Last week's trade for J.T. Realmuto made the Phillies' roster even more attractive for a free agent, though some have wondered whether either Harper or Machado wants to play in Philly."

With respect to the Nationals, Feinsand writes that "the consensus is that Boras will give Nationals ownership a chance to exceed [or at least match] the biggest offer before Harper signs elsewhere." More >

Video: When will Harper and Machado sign new deals?

Is Harper open to a short-term deal?
Feb. 13: While it has been reported that the Giants are hoping to sign Bryce Harper to a shorter-term contract, the star slugger "is not signing -- or even considering -- short-term deals," according to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman.

Tweet from @JonHeyman: Despite rumored offers/wishes of teams, word is Bryce Harper is not signing ��� or even considering ��� short-term deals.

That is similar to what MLB.com's Jon Paul Morosi is hearing. "According to what I was told by a source, Harper is not actively discussing a short-term deal right now with the Giants," Morosi says. "At this point in time, Harper's mindset is still the longer-term deal. I think if Harper was going to sign a short-term deal, if that was a preference of his, he would have done so by now."

ESPN's Buster Olney reports that there's even skepticism among some of the people involved in the discussions that the Giants would generate the type of offer that will sway the slugger to pick San Francisco.

Tweet from @Buster_ESPN: There continues to be skepticism among some of the folks involved in the Giants/Harper conversation that San Francisco would generate the kind of offer that would sway the slugger. More smoke than fire at this point, in eyes of some involved.

Still, USA Today's Bob Nightengale thinks that the club is a strong place, telling San Francisco radio station KNBR that the Giants and Phillies look like the finalists to land the superstar outfielder.

"Right now, I really do think it's the Giants and the Phillies. It's a two-team race here," said Nightengale, who thinks San Francisco and Philadelphia are neck and neck. "With the Giants moving in and all the optimism, I do believe it's a coin flip," Nightengale said. "I think for the Phillies to get Harper, they're going to have to grossly outbid the Giants to get him. I really do. I think if it's close, he goes to San Francisco. If there's a huge gap, it's tough to walk away from that kind of money."

On the other hand, Nightengale believes the Nationals and Dodgers -- two of the other suitors most strongly linked to Harper this offseason -- are "definitely out of it."

The Giants did make a move to address their outfield Tuesday, bringing in Gerardo Parra on a Minor League deal. While Parra has a good chance to make the team, a source told Morosi that the Giants, who have a full 40-man roster, remain hopeful to sign Harper and didn't want to add another outfielder to their 40-man roster until Harper's situation is settled. Hence, the Minor League contract for Parra.

Video: MLB Tonight on Harper not looking for short-term deal

Could Giants add Harper and still go through rebuild?
Feb. 11: The Giants recently entered the race for Bryce Harper, sparking comparisons to the 1992-93 offseason, when San Francisco signed Barry Bonds after a 72-90 season.

With Bonds in the fold, the Giants won 103 games in 1993. Could Harper lead this San Francisco club to a similar turnaround and help the franchise get another few postseason runs from its aging core? Perhaps that's what new president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and team president and CEO Larry Baer are hoping.

However, MLB Network insider Joel Sherman suggests that signing Harper could be a "middle-ground move" that keeps the club relevant while Zaidi reconstructs the roster.

"I wonder if the Giants are in this right now because they looked left and right and said, 'Well, Bryce Harper's still out there.'" Sherman said Monday on MLB Network's "Hot Stove" program. "'Should we at least put our toe in the water and see if we can do this at a level that we like? Because he's young enough to be part of our next good team, and he's star enough to keep our fans interested in the painful period that's likely to come over the next two to three years.'"

In Sherman's view, it would be surprising if the Giants stuck with the status quo, considering the hiring of Zaidi was the organization's way of breaking free from an old-fashioned thought process and ushering in a new era. But Harper could at least prevent the club from bottoming out and losing more fans and viewers in the interim.

"When you're in a market like San Francisco, where you're selling out every day, where TV ratings do matter, where you're in competition with the 49ers and the championship Warriors, you want to make sure you don't bleed out in the two- or three- or four-year period where they're [rebuilding]."

Video: Joel Sherman on the Giants' interest in Harper

One GM's prediction: Harper to Padres, Machado to Phillies
Feb. 11: Where will Bryce Harper and Manny Machado sign? The top question of the offseason will now become one of the top questions of Spring Training as pitchers and catchers report MLB-wide this week.

While both players' markets are still somewhat shrouded in mystery, one MLB general manager offered up his prediction to SNY's Andy Martino recently. In said GM's opinion, Harper is going to sign with the Padres, and Machado with the Phillies.

Tweet from @martinonyc: Asked this exact question of an MLB GM the other day and he said Harper to Padres, Machado to Phillies. But honestly, no one really knows yet. https://t.co/Y0wU6FHShj

San Diego recently entered the mix for Harper, meeting with the outfielder at the end of January. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is one of two clubs -- along with the White Sox -- that are known to be engaged with both Harper and Machado.

Harper also recently met with another National League West team, the Giants, in Las Vegas, and "there has been an increased sense among some in the clubhouse that Harper prefers" San Francisco, a source told NBC Sports Bay Area.

Report: Giants prefer short-term deal for Harper
Feb. 10: The Giants have emerged as a serious contender for Bryce Harper in the past week, but USA Today's Bob Nightengale writes that the club has "no desire" to make Harper an offer approaching the 10-year, $300 million deal he reportedly rejected from the Nationals in September. Rather, San Francisco plans to make Harper a lucrative short-term offer.

Of course, as Nightengale notes, ownership was willing to take on $265 million of Giancarlo Stanton's contract last offseason if it acquired him from the Marlins, so it's possible the Giants will be open to investing that type of money in Harper as well.

Harper was a popular topic during the Giants' annual FanFest at Oracle Park on Saturday. The club's CEO, Larry Baer, declined to make any predictions about where Harper will land, but did say the meeting Giants executives had with him earlier this week in Las Vegas went well and lasted four hours, longer than either side expected. Baer also said the Giants are "giving it a shot."

Video: Giants CEO Baer discusses interest in Harper

According to NBC Bay Area's Alex Pavlovic, Harper spoke of his admiration of catcher Buster Posey during the meeting, and "there has been an increased sense among some in the clubhouse that Harper prefers the Giants."

On Sunday, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr chimed in during a press conference, saying, "Bryce, come to San Francisco. Let's go."

Tweet from @NBCSWarriors: Coach Kerr has a message for you, @Bharper3407 😏 pic.twitter.com/KpNthKUBtM

The Giants, along with the Dodgers and Padres, are among the clubs closest to Harper's home in Las Vegas. A move to sign Harper wouldn't be unprecedented for the franchise; San Francisco plucked a 28-year-old Barry Bonds off the market in late 1992 with a six-year, $44 million contract that was, at that time, the largest in baseball history. The following season, the club won 103 games.

"There is obviously mutual interest on both sides," Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi said Friday. "We thought it made sense to get together. We had a good conversation over a few hours. He's obviously got a lot of suitors and a lot of interest. He's going to have some decisions to make. I think it's fair to say that was an expression of our interest level, to make the trip out there to meet with him. You don't make a trip out there to meet with a player just for show."

Zaidi, though, wouldn't go as far as saying whether the team has made a formal offer to Harper.

Video: MLB Tonight on Harper's meeting with the Giants

What would an Arenado extension mean for Harper?
Feb. 9: The Rockies are optimistic they will be able to sign their superstar third baseman, Nolan Arenado, to a contract extension soon, as club owner Dick Monfort told MLB.com's Thomas Harding last week. If Colorado is able to secure Arenado for the long term, how might that impact two superstars still on the free-agent market in Bryce Harper and Manny Machado?

MLB.com's Mark Feinsand writes that Arenado's extension could set a new average annual value record for position players, and if it does, Harper and Machado could benefit.

"It depends on the numbers, but I would expect the agents to fight to be above [Arenado's deal]," one AL general manager told Feinsand.

Beyond the AAV, the length of a potential Arenado extension, which could keep the 27-year-old in Denver through his mid-30s, could be a boon for Harper and Machado as well, as they seek deals that would exceed 10 years and $300 million.

Feinsand also delves into how an Arenado extension would impact this summer's trade market, as well as next offseason's free-agent market. More >

Harper faces "staring contest" ahead of Spring Training
Feb. 8: The sweepstakes for what was touted to be one of the biggest free-agent classes in history remains at a standstill just days before clubs report to Spring Training. And the root of the impasse, for Bryce Harper (and Manny Machado) at least, seems to be easy to decipher: dollars. 

In a Friday piece for The Athletic (subscription required), MLB Network insider Ken Rosenthal outlined the many factors as to why both players remain unsigned with roughly seven weeks left until Opening Day. Rosenthal reports that both are still seeking a deal in excess of $300 million, and given their limited pool of suitors, that figure could remain difficult to attain. 

Rosenthal adds that "neither wants to sign first, knowing once one of the players goes off the board, the other will benefit from gaining the sole attention of the remaining suitors" and that  "the clubs, too, prefer to stall."

The Phillies and White Sox have been the clubs most prominently linked to both players, and though the Padres emerged as an interested party in each last week, San Diego may have just been doing its due diligence late in the offseason. 

Rosenthal writes that Philly has conviction that it will land one or the other, with the financial bandwidth capable of topping any offer either player might otherwise receive. And White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf, Rosenthal adds, would prefer to wait out to the market to glean a firm gauge on what either player will cost, then determine if he's willing to meet that figure.  

Could Realmuto acquisition sway Harper to sign with Phils?
Feb. 8: If the Phillies wanted to gain even more leverage in their pursuit of Bryce Harper, trading for a player that Harper has publicly admired for years certainly couldn't hurt. The Phils continued their promising offseason by adding All-Star catcher J.T. Realmuto on Thursday, which should help bolster a lineup that was already projected to win 84 games, according to PECOTA forecasts from Baseball Prospectus. 

Video: IT discusses Phils getting Realmuto, eyeing Harper

It wasn't long ago that Harper publicly expressed frustration with the Nationals failing to land Realmuto ahead of last summer's non-waiver Trade Deadline. But Washington's surprisingly sustained level of disappointment prompted the club to sell instead of buy. And in a game against the Marlins three days before the Deadline, in which Realmuto drove in the winning run, Harper told reporters after: "If that guy was on our side, it wouldn't have happened."

Additionally, at the All-Star Game a few weeks prior, Harper playfully placed a Nats cap on Realmuto's head while the National League club was posing for a photo.  

• Bryce Harper is a big fan of new Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto

So, while Harper's decision will likely come down to dollars more than anything, it can't hurt the Phils' chances that they acquired an All-Star talent that Harper has made it clear he's a fan of. 

How Realmuto to Philly could affect Harper
Feb. 7: While the Phillies continue to pursue free agents Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, the club made another big move to bolster its roster Thursday, acquiring catcher J.T. Realmuto from the Marlins in a four-player deal. With the ambitious team looking to propel its way to contention, adding the game's top backstop could affect its leverage with not just Harper, but also Machado.

As MLB Network insider Ken Rosenthal points out, the determining factor for Harper and Machado will likely still be dollars.

Tweet from @Ken_Rosenthal: #Phillies view Realmuto, if acquired, as another potential enticement for Harper or Machado. Obviously, the biggest enticement will be money. https://t.co/N2R1wgL29U

But adding to an already strong positional nucleus -- Realmuto will join shortstop Jean Segura, left fielder Andrew McCutchen and closer David Robertson as Philly's prized offseason acquisitions (so far) -- certainly doesn't hurt Philadelphia's chances.

It's unclear what the Phillies have offered to both Harper and Machado, but multiple reports have shared that Harper turned down a 10-year, $300 million offer from the Nats at the end of the regular season, and Machado turned down a seven-year, $175 million deal from the White Sox recently. 

It's believed that, because their markets haven't gained much traction, the Phils are playing a waiting game of sorts while holding most of the leverage. 

Although adding Realmuto makes the team's need for Harper or Machado less acute, it doesn't sound as though Philadelphia is backing out of the race for either player.

"This doesn't take us out of the free-agent market by any stretch," general manager Matt Klentak said Thursday, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

Tweet from @BNightengale: Philadelphia #Phillies GM Matt Klentak, when asked if the JT Realmuto acquisition will have any impact on a certain couple of free agents: "This doesn���t take us out of the free-agent market by any stretch.'' #Harper #Machado

Meanwhile, MLB.com's Jon Paul Morosi reports that according to an official with one of the teams pursuing Harper, the superstar's decision does not appear to be imminent. Further, Morosi notes that according to a source familiar with the Nationals' thinking, Washington may be wary of losing Harper to the Phillies, in particular, given that the two are National League East rivals. That may cause the Nats to up their bid for Harper in the event he is close to signing with Philadelphia.

On Thursday, Baseball Prospectus released its 2019 PECOTA projections and forecasted that the Phils would win 84 games, tied with the Braves for third in the National League East behind the Mets and Nationals, who are each projected to win 89 games. But those forecasts did not include the acquisition of Realmuto, who is projected to be worth 3.8 Wins Above Replacement, according to Steamer. 

As Harper and Machado remain unsigned, Steinbrenner not ruling out another big addition
Feb. 7: Although Yankees manager Aaron Boone said earlier this week that he thought the team's roster was set for 2019, managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner is leaving the door open for another big acquisition.

"I don't think it's ever done," Steinbrenner said Thursday, according to Newsday. "Look, if somebody comes -- I haven't changed -- I mean if somebody comes to me with a suggestion or a proposal, I'm going to seriously consider it right up until Opening Day or after. That's part of my leave-no-stone-unturned [policy], right? But I'm excited about the roster. I think we've definitely got a better club Opening Day than we did Opening Day last year, particularly in pitching, which was my biggest area of concern."

The Yankees have had a busy offseason, adding James Paxton, Adam Ottavino, Troy Tulowitzki and DJ LeMahieu and re-signing CC Sabathia, J.A. Happ and Zack Britton.

But as long as superstars Bryce Harper and Manny Machado remain available, the deep-pocketed Yanks will continue to loom as a potential suitor, no matter how unlikely that seems right now.

"Fans should keep an open mind that I'm never done until I'm done, and that's not usually until Opening Day," Steinbrenner said. "Proposals come to me every day with these guys, between the analytics guys and the pro scouting guys, and I'm going to consider every single one of them. But I have to look at the big picture and it is my responsibility that my family expects and my partners expect not just to look at the present, but to look at the future, too. Three, four, five years from now, we've got a lot of homegrown kids that we love, our fans love, that are going to be coming up for free agency and that's something I've got to keep in mind as well."

The Yanks have been more closely connected to Machado this offseason, meeting with him in December. Meanwhile, general manager Brian Cashman did his part to quash any speculation that the Yanks were secretly in on Harper, noting that the club already has a glut of outfielders.

If there's still any chance that Harper could become a Yankee, Aaron Judge is willing to do what it takes to make that possibility a reality. Judge told TMZ Sports on Monday that he would consider moving to center field to clear a spot for Harper, if that was indeed something that could put New York over the top in the Harper sweepstakes.

"Wherever he wants to play, we'll make it work," Judge said. "Anytime you can add an MVP to a team, it's going to make it better."

Tweet from @MLB: Is the outfield at Yankee Stadium big enough? https://t.co/djpnbm1PnR pic.twitter.com/Z4ImkOebr5

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- The Rangers have signed veteran outfielder Ben Revere to a Triple-A contract with an invitation to Spring Training, according to Major League sources. The club has not confirmed the deal, which is pending a physical scheduled for Monday.

Revere was signed because the Rangers are short of outfielders at Triple-A Round Rock. Scott Heineman is expected to start the season on the disabled list while recovering from offseason surgery to repair a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder. Revere is not expected to be a candidate to make the Major League roster.

Revere has played eight seasons in the Major Leagues and has been known for his speed. He was with the Angels in 2017, hitting .275 with 21 stolen bases across 109 games. He was released by the Reds out of Spring Training last year and re-signed with the Halos, playing in 40 games at Triple-A Salt Lake City before being released on July 26.

Revere, 30, has 211 career stolen bases, which places him at 15th among active players. The left-handed-hitting outfielder has a career .284 batting average with a .319 on-base percentage and a .343 slugging percentage.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Four days after signing Gerardo Parra, the Giants are close to adding another veteran reinforcement to their crop of outfielders.

The Giants are working to finalize a Minor League deal with outfielder Cameron Maybin, MLB.com has confirmed. Andrew Baggarly and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic were the first to report news of the pending deal.

:: Spring Training coverage presented by Camping World ::

Maybin plays all three outfield spots and can serve as a right-handed-hitting complement to Steven Duggar in center field. The 31-year-old batted .249 with a .662 OPS, four home runs and 10 stolen bases in 129 games between the Marlins and Mariners in 2018.

A first-round Draft pick of the Tigers in 2005, Maybin has played for the Padres, Marlins, Tigers, Angels, Mariners, Braves and Astros over his 12-year career in the Majors.

President of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi had wanted to add multiple established outfielders this offseason, and he has now seemingly accomplished that goal by acquiring Parra and Maybin this week.

While Parra and Maybin will be brought into camp as non-roster invitees, they are likely to make the Opening Day roster given the youth and inexperience of the rest of the Giants' outfield contingent, which includes Duggar, Mac Williamson, Austin Slater, Chris Shaw and Rule 5 Draft pick Drew Ferguson.

Worth noting

• Manager Bruce Bochy has liked what he's seen so far from switch-pitcher Pat Venditte, who joined the Giants on a one-year deal in December. Venditte, 33, alternated throwing from the right side and the left side during his first bullpen session earlier this week.

"He's got a nice angle," Bochy said. "He's pretty impressive really with what he's able to do and command it. It's a tough at-bat. You get the matchup. He's coming from behind the hitter on both sides. When he came up last year, he did a nice job for the Dodgers. He threw the ball well."

Video: CIN@LAD: Venditte looks impressive in Dodgers debut

When will Bochy use Venditte?

"Probably when I'm stuck and I don't know what matchup I want," Bochy joked. "I'll just put him out there, and I can't get questioned on it."

• Dan Fouts, the Hall of Fame quarterback who spent his entire career with the San Diego Chargers, visited Giants camp Saturday and spent some time chatting with Bochy.

"He usually stops by and spends a day with us in the spring," Bochy said. "It's always good to see him. He's a big Giants fan."

Spring Training is here, so now is a good time to project what each club's Opening Day lineup and rotation would look like if the season began today. Of course, rosters are still fluid at this point, but with help from all 30 MLB.com beat writers, here's a roundup of how they might turn out.

:: Spring Training coverage presented by Camping World ::

AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST

BLUE JAYS
Lineup:
1. Devon Travis, 2B
2. Lourdes Gurriel Jr., SS
3. Justin Smoak, 1B
4. Kendrys Morales, DH
5. Randal Grichuk, RF
6. Teoscar Hernandez, LF
7. Kevin Pillar, CF
8. Brandon Drury, 3B
9. Danny Jansen, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Marcus Stroman, RHP
2. Aaron Sanchez, RHP
3. Ryan Borucki, LHP
4. Matt Shoemaker, RHP
5. Clayton Richard, LHP
Closer: Ken Giles, RHP

ORIOLES
Lineup:
1. Cedric Mullins, CF
2. Jonathan Villar, 2B
3. Trey Mancini, LF
4. Mark Trumbo, DH
5. Chris Davis, 1B
6. Renato Nunez, 3B
7. DJ Stewart, RF
8. Richie Martin, SS
9. Chance Sisco, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Dylan Bundy, RHP
2. Andrew Cashner, RHP
3. Alex Cobb, RHP
4. David Hess, RHP
5. Nate Karns, RHP
Closer: Mychal Givens, RHP

RAYS
Lineup:
1. Kevin Kiermaier, CF
2. Matt Duffy, 3B
3. Tommy Pham, LF
4. Ji-Man Choi, DH
5. Willy Adames, SS
6. Yandy Diaz, 1B
7. Austin Meadows, RF
8. Mike Zunino, C
9. Joey Wendle, 2B

Rotation and closer:
1. Blake Snell, LHP
2. Charlie Morton, RHP
3. Opener
4. Tyler Glasnow, RHP
5. Opener
Closer: Jose Alvarado, LHP

RED SOX
Lineup:
1. Andrew Benintendi, LF
2. Mookie Betts, RF
3. J.D. Martinez, DH
4. Xander Bogaerts, SS
5. Mitch Moreland, 1B
6. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
7. Rafael Devers, 3B
8. Jackie Bradley Jr., CF
9. Christian Vazquez, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Chris Sale, LHP
2. David Price, LHP
3. Rick Porcello, RHP
4. Nathan Eovaldi, RHP
5. Eduardo Rodriguez, LHP
Closer: Matt Barnes, RHP 

YANKEES
Lineup:
1. Brett Gardner, LF
2. Aaron Judge, RF
3. Aaron Hicks, CF
4. Giancarlo Stanton, DH
5. Gary Sanchez, C
6. Miguel Andujar, 3B
7. Gleyber Torres, 2B
8. Luke Voit, 1B
9. Troy Tulowitzki, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Luis Severino, RHP
2. James Paxton, LHP
3. Masahiro Tanaka, RHP
4. J.A. Happ, LHP
5. CC Sabathia, LHP
Closer: Aroldis Chapman, LHP

AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL

INDIANS
Lineup:
1. Leonys Martin, CF
2. Jason Kipnis, 2B
3. Jose Ramirez, 3B
4. Carlos Santana, DH
5. Jake Bauers, 1B
6. Tyler Naquin, RF
7. Jordan Luplow, LF
8. Roberto Perez, C
9. Yu Chang, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Corey Kluber, RHP
2. Trevor Bauer, RHP
3. Carlos Carrasco, RHP
4. Mike Clevinger, RHP
5. Shane Bieber, RHP
Closer: Brad Hand, LHP

ROYALS
Lineup:
1. Whit Merrifield, 2B
2. Adalberto Mondesi, SS
3. Alex Gordon, LF
4. Jorge Soler, DH
5. Salvador Perez, C
6. Ryan O'Hearn,1B
7. Hunter Dozier, 3B
8. Brett Phillips, RF
9. Billy Hamilton, CF

Rotation and closer:
1. Danny Duffy, LHP
2. Brad Keller, RHP
3. Jakob Junis, RHP
4. Ian Kennedy, RHP
5. Jorge Lopez, RHP
Closer: Brad Boxberger, RHP

TIGERS
Lineup:
1. Jeimer Candelario, 3B
2. Christin Stewart, LF
3. Nicholas Castellanos, RF
4. Miguel Cabrera, 1B
5. Niko Goodrum, 2B
6. John Hicks, DH
7. Grayson Greiner, C
8. JaCoby Jones, CF
9. Jordy Mercer, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Matthew Boyd, LHP
2. Michael Fulmer, RHP
3. Jordan Zimmermann, RHP
4. Matt Moore, LHP
5. Tyson Ross, RHP
Closer: Shane Greene, RHP

TWINS
Lineup:
1. Jorge Polanco, SS
2. Eddie Rosario, LF
3. Miguel Sano, 3B
4. Nelson Cruz, DH
5. C.J. Cron, 1B
6. Max Kepler, RF
7. Jonathan Schoop, 2B
8. Jason Castro, C
9. Byron Buxton, CF

Rotation and closer:
1. Jose Berrios, RHP
2. Kyle Gibson, RHP
3. Michael Pineda, RHP
4. Jake Odorizzi, RHP
5. Martin Perez, LHP
Closer: Trevor May, RHP

WHITE SOX
Lineup:
1. Jon Jay, RF
2. Yoan Moncada, 2B
3. Jose Abreu, 1B
4. Yonder Alonso, DH
5. Welington Castillo, C
6. Daniel Palka, LF
7. Tim Anderson, SS
8. Yolmer Sanchez, 3B
9. Adam Engel, CF

Rotation and closer:
1. Carlos Rodon, LHP
2. Reynaldo Lopez, RHP
3. Ivan Nova, RHP
4. Lucas Giolito, RHP
5. Manny Banuelos, LHP
Closer: Alex Colome, RHP

AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST

ANGELS
Lineup:
1. Zack Cozart, 3B
2. Mike Trout, CF
3. Justin Upton, LF
4. Justin Bour, 1B
5. Albert Pujols, DH
6. Andrelton Simmons, SS
7. Kole Calhoun, RF
8. David Fletcher, 2B
9. Jonathan Lucroy, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Tyler Skaggs, LHP
2. Andrew Heaney, LHP
3. Matt Harvey, RHP
4. Trevor Cahill, RHP
5. Jaime Barria, RHP
Closer: Cody Allen, RHP

ASTROS
Lineup:
1. George Springer, CF
2. Alex Bregman, 3B
3. Jose Altuve, 2B
4. Carlos Correa, SS
5. Michael Brantley, LF
6. Yuli Gurriel, 1B
7. Josh Reddick, RF
8. Tyler White, DH
9. Robinson Chirinos, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Justin Verlander, RHP
2. Gerrit Cole, RHP
3. Wade Miley, LHP
4. Collin McHugh, RHP
5. Josh James, RHP
Closer: Roberto Osuna, RHP

ATHLETICS
Lineup:
1. Nick Martini, LF
2. Matt Chapman, 3B
3. Matt Olson, 1B
4. Khris Davis, DH
5. Stephen Piscotty, RF
6. Jurickson Profar, 2B
7. Ramon Laureano, CF
8. Marcus Semien, SS
9. Chris Herrmann, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Mike Fiers, RHP
2. Marco Estrada, RHP
3. Brett Anderson, LHP
4. Daniel Mengden, RHP
5. Paul Blackburn, RHP
Closer: Blake Treinen, RHP

MARINERS
Lineup:
1. Mallex Smith, CF
2. Mitch Haniger, RF
3. Edwin Encarnacion, DH
4. Kyle Seager, 3B
5. Domingo Santana, LF
6. Ryon Healy, 1B
7. Omar Narvaez, C
8. Tim Beckham, SS
9. Dee Gordon, 2B

Rotation and closer:
1. Marco Gonzales, LHP
2. Yusei Kikuchi, LHP
3. Mike Leake, RHP
4. Wade LeBlanc, LHP
5. Felix Hernandez, RHP
Closer: Hunter Strickland, RHP

RANGERS
Lineup:
1. Delino DeShields, CF
2. Elvis Andrus, SS
3. Shin-Soo Choo, DH
4. Nomar Mazara, RF
5. Asdrubal Cabrera, 3B
6. Joey Gallo, LF
7. Rougned Odor, 2B
8. Ronald Guzman, 1B
9. Jeff Mathis, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Mike Minor, LHP 
2. Lance Lynn, RHP
3. Drew Smyly, LHP
4. Edinson Volquez, RHP
5. Shelby Miller, RHP
Closer: Jose Leclerc, RHP

NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST

BRAVES
Lineup:
1. Ender Inciarte, CF
2. Josh Donaldson, 3B
3. Freddie Freeman, 1B
4. Ronald Acuna Jr., LF
5. Nick Markakis, RF
6. Tyler Flowers, C
7. Ozzie Albies, 2B
8. Dansby Swanson, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Mike Foltynewicz, RHP
2. Sean Newcomb, LHP
3. Kevin Gausman, RHP
4. Julio Teheran, RHP
5. Touki Toussaint, RHP
Closer: Arodys Vizcaino, RHP

MARLINS
Lineup:
1. Lewis Brinson, CF
2. Curtis Granderson, LF
3. Starlin Castro, 2B
4. Brian Anderson, 3B
5. Peter O'Brien, RF
6. Neil Walker, 1B
7. Jorge Alfaro, C
8. JT Riddle, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Jose Urena, RHP
2. Dan Straily, RHP
3. Wei-Yin Chen, LHP
4. Sandy Alcantara, RHP
5. Trevor Richards, RHP
Closer: Drew Steckenrider, RHP

METS
Lineup:
1. Brandon Nimmo, RF
2. Jed Lowrie, 3B
3. Robinson Cano, 2B
4. Wilson Ramos, C
5. Michael Conforto, LF
6. Todd Frazier, 1B
7. Juan Lagares, CF
8. Amed Rosario, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Jacob deGrom, RHP
2. Noah Syndergaard, RHP
3. Zack Wheeler, RHP
4. Steven Matz, LHP
5. Jason Vargas, LHP
Closer: Edwin Diaz, RHP

NATIONALS
Lineup:
1. Adam Eaton, RF
2. Trea Turner, SS
3. Anthony Rendon, 3B
4. Juan Soto, LF
5. Ryan Zimmerman, 1B
6. Brian Dozier, 2B
7. Victor Robles, CF
8. Yan Gomes, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Max Scherzer, RHP
2. Stephen Strasburg, RHP
3. Patrick Corbin, LHP
4. Anibal Sanchez, RHP
5. Jeremy Hellickson, RHP
Closer: Sean Doolittle, LHP

PHILLIES
Lineup:
1. Cesar Hernandez, 2B
2. Jean Segura, SS
3. J.T. Realmuto, C
4. Rhys Hoskins, 1B
5. Andrew McCutchen, LF
6. Odubel Herrera, CF
7. Maikel Franco, 3B
8. Nick Williams, RF

Rotation and closer:
1. Aaron Nola, RHP
2. Jake Arrieta, RHP
3. Nick Pivetta, RHP
4. Zach Eflin, RHP
5. Vince Velasquez, RHP
Closer: David Robertson, RHP, or Seranthony Dominguez, RHP

NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL

BREWERS
Lineup:
1. Lorenzo Cain, CF
2. Christian Yelich, RF
3. Ryan Braun, LF
4. Travis Shaw, 3B
5. Jesus Aguilar, 1B
6. Yasmani Grandal, C
7. Cory Spangenberg, 2B
8. Orlando Arcia, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Jhoulys Chacin, RHP
2. Chase Anderson, RHP
3. Zach Davies, RHP
4. Jimmy Nelson, RHP
5. Brandon Woodruff, RHP
Closer: Corey Knebel, RHP

CARDINALS
Lineup:
1. Matt Carpenter, 3B
2. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B
3. Paul DeJong, SS
4. Marcell Ozuna, LF
5. Dexter Fowler, RF
6. Yadier Molina, C
7. Kolten Wong, 2B
8. Harrison Bader, CF

Rotation and closer:
1. Miles Mikolas, RHP
2. Carlos Martinez, RHP
3. Jack Flaherty, RHP
4. Michael Wacha, RHP
5. Adam Wainwright, RHP
Closer: Andrew Miller, LHP

CUBS
Lineup:
1. Ben Zobrist, 2B
2. Kris Bryant, 3B
3. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
4. Javier Baez, SS
5. Kyle Schwarber, LF
6. Willson Contreras, C
7. Jason Heyward, RF
8. Albert Almora Jr., CF

Rotation and closer:
1. Jon Lester, LHP
2. Kyle Hendricks, RHP
3. Cole Hamels, LHP
4. Yu Darvish, RHP
5. Jose Quintana, LHP
Closer: Pedro Strop, RHP

PIRATES
Lineup:
1. Adam Frazier, 2B
2. Starling Marte, CF
3. Corey Dickerson, LF
4. Josh Bell, 1B
5. Francisco Cervelli, C
6. Colin Moran, 3B
7. Lonnie Chisenhall, RF
8. Erik Gonzalez, SS

Rotation and closer:
1. Jameson Taillon, RHP
2. Chris Archer, RHP
3. Trevor Williams, RHP
4. Joe Musgrove, RHP
5. Jordan Lyles, RHP
Closer: Felipe Vazquez, LHP

REDS
Lineup:
1. Jesse Winker, LF
2. Jose Peraza, SS
3. Joey Votto, 1B
4. Eugenio Suarez, 3B
5. Scooter Gennett, 2B
6. Yasiel Puig, RF
7. Scott Schebler, CF
8. Tucker Barnhart, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Sonny Gray, RHP
2. Tanner Roark, RHP
3. Alex Wood, LHP
4. Luis Castillo, RHP
5. Anthony DeSclafani, RHP
Closer: Raisel Iglesias, RHP

NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST

D-BACKS
Lineup:
1. Ketel Marte, CF
2. Eduardo Escobar, 3B
3. David Peralta, LF
4. Steven Souza Jr., RF
5. Jake Lamb, 1B
6. Wilmer Flores, 2B
7. Nick Ahmed, SS
8. Alex Avila, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Zack Greinke, RHP
2. Robbie Ray, LHP
3. Zack Godley, RHP
4. Luke Weaver, RHP
5. Merrill Kelly, RHP
Closer: Archie Bradley, RHP

DODGERS
Lineup:
1. A.J. Pollock, CF
2. Corey Seager, SS
3. Justin Turner, 3B
4. Cody Bellinger, RF
5. Max Muncy, 1B
6. Chris Taylor, 2B
7. Joc Pederson, LF
8. Austin Barnes, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Clayton Kershaw, LHP
2. Walker Buehler, RHP
3. Hyun-Jin Ryu, LHP
4. Rich Hill, LHP
5. Kenta Maeda, RHP
Closer: Kenley Jansen, RHP

GIANTS
Lineup:
1. Steven Duggar, CF
2. Joe Panik, 2B
3. Buster Posey, C
4. Brandon Belt, 1B
5. Evan Longoria, 3B
6. Brandon Crawford, SS
7. Gerardo Parra, LF
8. Mac Williamson, RF

Rotation and closer:
1. Madison Bumgarner, LHP
2. Derek Holland, LHP
3. Dereck Rodriguez, RHP
4. Drew Pomeranz, LHP
5. Jeff Samardzija, RHP
Closer: Will Smith, LHP

PADRES
Lineup:
1. Manuel Margot, CF
2. Luis Urias, SS
3. Eric Hosmer, 1B
4. Franmil Reyes, RF
5. Wil Myers, LF
6. Ian Kinsler, 2B
7. Austin Hedges, C
8. Ty France, 3B

Rotation and closer:
1. Joey Lucchesi, LHP
2. Eric Lauer, LHP
3. Robbie Erlin, LHP
4. Bryan Mitchell, RHP
5. Matt Strahm, LHP
Closer: Kirby Yates, RHP

ROCKIES
Lineup:
1. Charlie Blackmon, LF
2. David Dahl, RF
3. Nolan Arenado, 3B
4. Trevor Story, SS
5. Daniel Murphy, 1B
6. Ian Desmond, CF
7. Ryan McMahon, 2B
8. Chris Iannetta, C

Rotation and closer:
1. Kyle Freeland, LHP
2. German Marquez, RHP
3. Tyler Anderson, LHP
4. Jon Gray, RHP
5. Chad Bettis, RHP
Closer: Wade Davis, RHP