Larry Walker’s Hall of Fame chances are improving. Here’s what’s fueling the former Rockies OF’s rise. | The Denver Post ($)
At last check, Colorado Rockies’ great Larry Walker had garnered 66 percent of the vote from eligible Hall of Fame balloters. This is by far the most support Walker has received since his name first appeared on the ballot in 2011. Patrick Saunders (who was named Colorado Sportswriter of the Year on Monday) spoke to many voters who both back Walker and do not believe he is worthy of enshrinement. For those who don’t support Walker’s induction, the subjects of an injury-riddled career and one of playing at altitude most impact their votes. As always, the ever-humble Walker was quick to downplay his candidacy himself, saying he’s just happy to have made it this far.
DJ LeMahieu Is Going to Look Familiar | FanGraphs
Jeff Sullivan of FanGraphs explores how DJ LeMahieu might remind Yankees fans of another DJ that used to play for New York.
Bowden: Sizing up the rookies who are ready to make their mark in the majors in 2019 | The Athletic ($)
Jim Bowden of The Athletic showcases 20 rookies who have the potential to give their teams plenty of production in 2019. For the Rockies, Bowden writes that top prospect Brendan Rodgers will have the opportunity to be their everyday second baseman.
Baseball Is Broken: Can Anything Short of a Strike Fix It? | The Ringer
Michael Baumann of The Ringer dives deep into the subject of increasing revenues in baseball— revenues that the players are not seeing an even share of. The number of teams in on big free agents like Bryce Harper and Manny Machado appears to be very small. Could a strike be on its way? The MLB Player’s Association needs solidarity with its members first, Baumann writes.