A Comprehensive Guide & Predictions For The 2022 MLB Season

Following the MLB-MLBPA Lockout Agreement on Thursday, the attention shifts to Free Agency and the new season.

Source: NPR

Finally, the moment we have all been waiting for. Baseball fans across the country and the world can finally rejoice after a deal was struck today between the MLB and MLBPA. 99 days later, our focus can officially turn to the madness that will ensue with Free Agency starting right away as we should see a flurry of activity this weekend. Opening day is slated to be April 7th with one of the major negotiation points being an expanded Postseason from 10 teams to 12.

Let's begin by highlighting the best Free Agents that are still on the market at this time.

Freddie Freeman (LAD)

Kris Bryant (COL)

Carlos Correa (MIN)

Nick Castellanos (PHI)

Trevor Story (BOS)

Kyle Schwarber (PHI)

Carlos Rodon (SF)

Seiya Suzuki (CHC)

Kenley Jansen (ATL)

Michael Conforto

Depending on where some of these big names land, it could sway my predictions and analysis but lets get right into it by division.

AMERICAN LEAGUE

AL EAST

1. Tampa Bay Rays (Nick's Projected Win Total: 96)

Tampa has figured out their own highly successful regular season formula, and this season figures to not be any different. You can make a strong case that Tampa deserves a sequel to the original "Moneyball" due to their maximization of talent, especially on the pitchers side, on a yearly basis. That being said, locking up stud shortstop Wander Franco was a move that made huge headlines and figures to give Tampa a great piece to build around for years to come. Outfielders Randy Arozarena and Austin Meadows figure to front an explosive offense that will rely on them for offensive production. Pitcher Tyler Glasnow will miss the 2021 season, but Tampa still has depth at the position and a strong farm system to replace this big loss.

2. Boston Red Sox (Nick's Projected Win Total: 93)

The Red Sox always seem to flip flop from having a great year to a terrible one. With that being said, the team is coming off of a year where they peaked early in their rebuild with an appearance in the ALCS. Boston needs to shore up the pitching side, as they still rely a bit too heavily on Chris Sale who is coming off a rough Tommy John injury in preparing for his first full season since it occurred. P Nathan Eovaldi remains a key top of the rotation starter. However, I predict that the Boston offense, which is very dynamic, will bludgeon teams in the regular season featuring the likes of third baseman Rafael Devers, shortstop Xavier Bogearts, and DH/OF J.D. Martinez. Trevor Story is a major free agent signing, and figures to slot in nicely at 2B in a lineup that just got that much deeper.

3. New York Yankees (Nick's Projected Win Total: 92)

The Yankees come into this season with a lot of uncertainty, as they are financially strained right up against the luxury tax. It will be interesting to see how much Hal Steinbrenner is willing to spend in Free Agency. The team will need ace Gerrit Cole to be dominant as he fronts an underwhelming rest of the rotation in order to be successful. The Bullpen is still solid with guys like Jonathan Loaisiga, but projects to be a little worse than in previous years. The "Bronx Bombers" will still feature a potent offense with guys like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, but face significant questions at the C,1B,SS, and CF positions.

4. Toronto Blue Jays (Nick's Projected Win Total: 85)

The loss of ace pitcher Robbie Ray (SEA) in Free Agency is a massive one, as he was a key part of a pitching staff that many deemed underrated last season. With that being said, the Blue Jays employ some of the most exciting young stars in the game in 3B Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and SS Bo Bichette. However, it is there lack of pitching depth that resigns them to fourth place in a stacked AL East, as on paper the three teams above them have the edge. Look for them to be a potential dangerous Wild Card team come October.

5. Baltimore Orioles (Nick's Projected Win Total: 72)

The Orioles can only go up from last season, where they lost over 100 games.They have been mired in a rebuild for awhile now, but look for top prospect C Adley Rutschman to make an immediate impact. The rest of the roster, well, it figures to be another long season in Baltimore.

AL CENTRAL

1. Chicago White Sox (Nick's Projected Win Total: 95)

The White Sox were among the most intriguing stories in baseball last season. This year figures to be a similar story. Expect the White Sox to win the AL Central comfortably, with an offense that returns key pieces SS Tim Anderson, OF Luis Robert, OF Eloy Jimenez, and 1B Jose Abreu. The starting pitching is just as solid, with guys like Lance Lynn, Lucas Giolito, and Dylan Cease leading the way.

2. Detroit Tigers (Nick's Projected Win Total: 88)

The Tigers figure to be the sexy pick to win what figures to be an overall weak division again in 2022; I have them finishing second. Free Agent signings SS Javy Baez and P Eduardo Rodriguez figure to fit in nicely with the club. Where I think Detroit could really turn some heads is their pitching rotation, as besides Rodriguez's upside young pitchers like Casey Mize and Spencer Turnbull could be huge x-factors.

3. Minnesota Twins (Nick's Projected Win Total: 85)

The Twins severely underperformed last season, as they were among MLB's most disappointing teams. However, look for them to bounce back in '22. There is talent scattered all over the roster, and while a little on the older side with guys like 3B Josh Donaldson I still believe these players have some gas left in the tank. The biggest concern naturally with the Twins due to their age is that they will have to stay on the field. Guys like CF Byron Buxton, RF Max Kepler, and SS Jorge Polanco will be expected to carry the load offensively. The Twins are thin on starting pitching, but a strong bullpen figures to make up for it. Signing star SS Carlos Correa was a big addition, and signifies Minnesotas desire to win in '22.

4. Cleveland Guardians (Nick's Projected Win Total: 80)

Cleveland figures to be in for a rough year, as a team that has been competitive for much of the past few years officially enters a rebuild. There is still some talent on the roster, led by the likes of likely Cy Young candidate P Shane Bieber. 3B Jose Ramirez is a great offensive talent as well, and figures to be among baseballs top trade candidates at the deadline.

5. Kansas City Royals (Nick's Projected Win Total: 76)

The Royals, like the Guardians, are also in a rebuild. However, look for top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. to make a significant impact for Kansas City in '22. There is still some talent on the roster, with players such as 2B Whit Merrifield and C Salvador Perez, but I would bet on it being another long year in KC.

AL WEST

1. Houston Astros (Nick's Projected Win Total: 96)

In a division that figures to give the Astros the biggest run for their money they have seen in awhile, the Astros will win the division as its most talented overall team. They will look to rebound from their World Series loss to the Atlanta Braves in 2021. The Astros retain much of their core, including 2B Jose Altuve, 3B Alex Bregman, and P Lance McCullers. DH Yordan Alvarez is a beast, and will be a massive contributor to the Houston offense.

2. Seattle Mariners (Nick's Projected Win Total: 92)

Mariners fans, get excited. For the first time since 2001, the Mariners seem poised to be playing October baseball. The team that likely will give Houston its stiffest competition will look for OF Jered Kelenic to have a big year. SS J.P. Crawford, 2B Adam Frazier, and OF Mitch Haniger will also be key contributors. One of the biggest moves of the offense, signing P Robbie Ray, strengthens the rotation giving Seattle a clear ace.

3. Los Angeles Angels (Nick's Projected Win Total: 87)

Will this be the year we finally see two of baseballs biggest superstars and arguably faces of the game make the postseason? Los Angeles is led by star OF Mike Trout who is back from an injury that cost him all of the 2021 season and two-way phenom P/OF Shohei Ohtani is an international sensation that projects to make positive contributions from both the plate and mound again this season. The rest of the roster needs work, as Los Angeles' only other star-caliber player is 3B Anthony Rendon. If he can stay on the field, P Noah Syndergaard should be a solid fringe top of the rotation piece.

4. Texas Rangers (Nick's Projected Win Total: 84)

The Rangers made two of the splashiest offseason signings, inking SS Corey Seager and 2B Marcus Semien to massive deals. With that being said, the Rangers are thin at almost every other position on the diamond and will need massive years from both to make a run at the postseason. Texas will have to shore up its starting and relief pitching still, but this is a big step towards fielding a competitive postseason team in the years to come.

5. Oakland Athletics (Nick's Projected Win Total: 80)

Someone has to finish last in what on paper looks to be a super competitive division, and that distinction goes to Oakland. Oakland is currently looking to shed payroll and is devoid of talent all over the roster. Their top star, 1B Matt Olson has put up massive numbers for two consecutive seasons but seems to be headed elsewhere.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

NL EAST

1. New York Mets (Nick's Projected Win Total: 94)

The Mets may have a $300 million dollar payroll soon. Owner Steve Cohen has made clear his zest to go all in, as the Mets have made major signings this offseason including P Max Scherzer, OF Starling Marte, and 3B Eduardo Escobar. Look for the combination of P Jacob Degrom and Scherzer to be a lethal one, and for SS Francisco Lindor to bounce back after a rough initial year in Flushing. This team has solid pieces across the board, and comes into 2022 with big expectations for the first time in while.

2. Atlanta Braves (Nick's Projected Win Total: 93)

The defending World Series champs should be a staunch competitive team again this year, as they have a superstar in OF Ronald Acuna Jr. coming back from injury. SS Dansby Swanson is a stud defensively and has come around offensively with a solid year in '21. 2B Ozzie Albies and 3B Austin Riley put up massive numbers and figure to do so again. The starting pitching is headlined by budding superstar Max Fried, and the Braves will have one of the deepest bullpens in the NL. The main question they face is will they resign 1B Freddie Freeman?

3. Miami Marlins (Nick's Projected Win Total: 86)

The Marlins are getting better and will be competing for division titles very very soon, but it won't be in 2022. However, there is a lot to like about the pieces that Derek Jeter assembled mainly through the Marcell Ozuna trade before leaving the team. SS Jazz Chisholm Jr. is an emerging star. 2B Joey Wendle was a good heads up trade. 1B Jesús Aguilar is a solid piece. The team made a smart decision in signing OF Avisail Garcia. In my opinion, Where the Marlins are really impressive is their starting rotation. Outside of the Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers, I think it may just be the best in the league. The team is set up well for the future with P's Sandy Alcantara, Trevor Rogers, and Sixto Sanchez.

4. Philadelphia Phillies (Nick's Projected Win Total: 83)

The Phillies figure to be in the conversation for a Wild Card spot. While a clear step below the Mets and Braves on paper, Philadelphia has a balanced lineup led by OF Bryce Harper and C JT Realmuto. Pitching wise, they are led by 2021 NL Cy Young candidate Aaron Nola. The team will have to address their bullpen, as just like past years that is their Achilles heel.

5. Washington Nationals (Nick's Projected Win Total: 70)

It will be a long year in D.C., as the Nationals are in a clear rebuilding stage as evident by them dealing SS Trea Turner and P Max Scherzer at the deadline last season. However, OF superstar Juan Soto remains must see television for a team that would be unwatchable otherwise.

NL CENTRAL

1. Milwaukee Brewers (Nick's Projected Win Total: 95)

This was a close-call, as the Brew Crew need to fix an offense whose only main addition this offseason was OF Hunter Renfroe. It will be imperative for OF Christian Yelich to bounce back after a substandard 2021. With that being said, the Brewers are still well positioned to win the division. The acquisition of SS Willy Adames may have been the move of the year last year and the Brewers have, in my opinion, the best starting rotation in the majors. It is a triple headed monster led by 2021 Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes and also features Brandon Woodruff and Freddy Peralta. The bullpen is lethal too, with relief pitchers Devin Williams and Josh Hader.

2. St. Louis Cardinals (Nick's Projected Win Total: 93)

The Cardinals feature a much better lineup than the Brewers but a weaker rotation. Look for the Cards to make a run for the division, as they are led pitching wise by P Jack Flaherty and P Adam Wainwright. Offensively, 1B Paul Goldschmitt and 3B Nolan Arenado are the main pieces. In a weak NL Central overall, the Brewers and Cardinals are the clear top two teams.

3. Cincinatti Reds (Nick's Projected Win Total: 80)

The Reds figure to be mired in mediocrity this season, as they seek to beat up on the Cubs and Pirates while being beaten up on by the Brewers and Cardinals. Rookie of the year 3B Jonathan India is a player to build around for the future, and 1B Joey Votto and OF Jessie Winker remain heart of the order options. Pitching wise, the Reds will seek a big year from P Luis Castillo if they are to have any chance at making the playoffs as a wild card team.

4. Chicago Cubs (Nick's Projected Win Total: 71)

The Cubs demonstrated a commitment to a rebuild last season, as they dealt 1B Anthony Rizzo, SS Javy Baez, 3B Kris Bryant, and DH Kyle Schwarber. As a result, spots opened up and some bright pieces did emerge. These pieces to look out for in 2022 include RF Frank Schwindel. The team still has C Wilson Contreras, who is their main star. 2B Nick Madrigal is an intriguing player going forward for the Cubs, having been acquired from the White Sox in the trade for RP Craig Kimbrel. The Cubs made one signing in Free Agency, signing P Marcus Stroman.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates (Nick's Projected Win Total: 65)

You have to feel for Pirates fans. They project to be the worst team this season, and have frustratingly had little improvement over the past few seasons. The future, as currently stands, appears just as bleak. 3B Ke-Bryan Hayes is a solid piece, but the rest of the roster is young guys vying for major league spots. The Pirates payroll is very low, as they have an owner that seems like he could care less about the teams success.

NL WEST

1. Los Angeles Dodgers (Nick's Projected Win Total: 102)

Death. Taxes. LA winning the NL West. The Dodgers, vying for their eighth (or is it ninth?) consecutive division title, remain the cream of the crop in the NL West. You get the idea. There is talent littered across the roster, as the team continues to seek upgrades in any and every situation. Pitching wise, 2021 NL Cy Young candidate Walker Buehler leads a deep rotation that also features Clayton Kershaw. Offensively, the key pieces are all returning including SS Trea Turner, 3B Justin Turner, and OF Mookie Betts. Losing P Max Scherzer hurts, but the Dodgers are more than prepared to make up for it. Signing star free agent 1B Freddie Freeman was a huge move that makes LA an even bigger superteam.

2. San Diego Padres (Nick's Projected Win Total: 98)

One of the biggest disappointments last season (probably the biggest) in all of baseball last year, the Padres are seeking redemption. San Diegos main offseason move was the hiring of well respected manager Bob Melvin. The team, led by superstar SS Fernando Tatis Jr., will look to prove that last year was a fluke as expectations are high again. Offensively, Tatis Jr. is aided by 3B Manny Machado and 1B Eric Hosmer. The rotation is led by P Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove.

3. San Francisco Giants (Nick's Projected Win Total: 87)

The Giants, maybe last seasons biggest positive surprise, look primed to take a step back this season while remaining in Wild Card contention. Closer Camilo Doval is a beast, and one of the main reasons why the Giants took the Dodgers to five games in the NL Division Round last season. Overall, the Giants are an older team that can fall apart pretty quickly. It will be interesting to see if SS Brandon Crawford mirrors the year he had last season. P Carlos Rodon is a solid addition from Free Agency, and deepens the rotation.

4. Arizona Diamondbacks (Nick's Projected Win Total: 78)

Like the Twins and Padres, the Diamondbacks were among the leagues biggest disappointments last season. Look for CF Ketel Marte to be dealt midseason. Pitcher Zac Gallen projects to be a stud, but that is about the only good news out of the desert currently.

5. Colorado Rockies Nick's Projected Win Total: 73)

The Rockies will be one of the worst teams in 2022. Like the Pirates, their owner is terrible as shown by the approval trading away key pieces like Arenado recently. FA Trevor Story will be playing for a different team this year. Signing 3B/OF Kris Bryant gives Colorado a superstar, but is widely regarded was a puzzling move for a club still likely to finish in the cellar of a tough NL West.

POSTSEASON SEEDING

AMERICAN LEAGUE

1. Houston Astros (BYE)

2. Tampa Bay Rays (BYE)

3. Chicago White Sox

4. Boston Red Sox

5. New York Yankees

6. Seattle Mariners

NATIONAL LEAGUE

1. Los Angeles Dodgers (BYE)

2. Milwaukee Brewers (BYE)

3. New York Mets

4. San Diego Padres

5. Atlanta Braves

6. St. Louis Cardinals

PLAYOFFS

AL

ALWC (Best of 3)

#3 Chicago White Sox def. #6 Seattle Mariners

#5 New York Yankees def. #4 Boston Red Sox

ALDS

#3 Chicago White Sox def #2 Tampa Bay Rays

#5 New York Yankees def. #1 Houston Astros

ALCS

#3 Chicago White Sox def. #5 New York Yankees

NL

NLWC (Best of 3)

#3 New York Mets def. #6 St. Louis Cardinals

#4 San Diego Padres def. #5 Atlanta Braves

NLDS

#1 Los Angeles Dodgers def. #4 San Diego Padres

#3 New York Mets def. #2 Milwaukee Brewers

NLCS

#3 New York Mets def. #1 Los Angeles Dodgers

WORLD SERIES

Mets def. White Sox (6 Games)