Rankings/List

Recently, ESPN writer David Schoenfield wrote a detailed feature about the New York Yankees and their success in spite of old age.

Rebuking doomsayers, Schoenfield time-traveled 18 seasons (to when Jack McDowell wore pinstripes) to show why it would be unwise to count the Yankees out in 2013.

The Marlins, whether they be Florida or Miami, are not known for keeping their quality players for long periods of time. Every four or five years, the team has a total purging of their well known and well paid players and young unknown talents are ushered in.

The Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Dodgers are the biggest winners of the offseason so far, and that has them rocketing up the MLB power rankings.

Those two teams have spent like mad this winter, loading up with big names to fuel playoff runs in 2013 and beyond.

The Minnesota Twins are in a position where they need to make moves to improve the active roster. In such situations, a team may decide to trade their biggest piece in order to make a quick upgrade.

On the surface, the Twins may not have that piece. However, that could change if they decide to make Joe Mauer available.

The calendar is just days away from turning to 2013. With that, the book will effectively be closed on the 2012 season as we look ahead toward the year to come in MLB.

But 2012 provided several memorable performances that won't be quickly forgotten.

Obviously, some players were recognized for their achievements with MLB's individual awards, honoring the best hitters and pitchers in each league. Their place in baseball history is assured.

The Philadelphia Phillies took their time addressing their needs this offseason, but they have managed to acquire four players whose roles are already defined heading into next season.

As I mentioned in last week’s installment, it’s become increasingly difficult to compose a list of the winter league’s best pitching prospects. While the Dominican league’s regular season ended last week, the Mexican and Venezuelan leagues will both play their last regular-season contests on Sunday.

As the offseason drags on, MLB teams are busy continuing to tweak their rosters, attempting to put the best product possible on the field for the 2013 season.

Some teams are likely done dealing, happy with the progress made thus far. Other teams continue to consider signings or possible trades they believe will work to their advantage.

Each deal, no matter its scope, is judged and analyzed ad nauseum by a bevy of pundits, writers and experts who will either pan or laud each transaction.

Although the Milwaukee Brewers have a relatively deep farm system, they lack a true impact prospect. On the other hand, most of their top talent is ready to contribute in the major leagues in either 2013 or 2014.

The organization’s prospect pool is highlighted by a slew of right-handed pitchers in Wily Peralta, Tyler Thornburg, John Hellweg and Taylor Jungmann. After the graduation of Jean Segura to the major leagues late last season, the Brewers also lack a legitimate position prospect.

The Cincinnati Reds are looking to win the National League Central and make a deep playoff run in 2013, so it's time to evaluate the team's offseason moves.

For the second straight offseason, the team stayed put at the winter meetings. Just like last year, the Reds made some major moves after the meetings wrapped up.