Fan News

The Kansas City Royals have made an unexpected commitment to win in 2013. And if they want to follow through on that commitment, they should take advantage of a weak market for reliever Rafael Soriano.

"When you have no expectations, you'll never be disappointed." Those were the words of Vince Vaughn during his role as Peter LaFleur in the movie Dodgeball.

So, if the New York Mets enter the 2013 season with the intention of being mediocre while waiting until their bevy of talented prospects are ready to contribute, then the season will be the fifth consecutive sub-.500 campaign to begin the Citi Field era.

The Major League Baseball world was dealt a sad blow Saturday night with the death of former Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ryan Freel.

Firstcoastnews.com reporter Chad Cushnir had the report:

Everyone knows baseball games are won on the field, but winning games is made easier if a team has a good general manager. The offseason is a busy time for front offices, as they try to construct teams that will be competitive during the coming season.

This year there have been four GMs who have really made a statement about the direction they are taking their team and have delivered with big home runs.

Begin Slideshow

The Boston Red Sox made a move to shore up the back end of their bullpen by trading for two-time All-Star closer Joel Hanrahan.

Raul Ibanez is 40 years old, but apparently the Seattle Mariners still believe that the left-handed power-hitter can contribute.

Ibanez appeared in 130 games for the New York Yankees in 2012. He faced right-hand pitching almost exclusively in that time.

The Seattle Mariners need a boost offensively, and they're hoping Raul Ibanez can supply some pop in his return.

According to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, the Mariners and Ibanez have reached an agreement:

Source: Ibanez in agreement with #Mariners.

Wax up the sleigh. Check it for flight. Shine St. Nick’s boots. Make sure Rudy’s nose is bright and squeaky clean.

Test the GPS. Gather the weather reports. Check the sack for rips. Tell Mrs. C not to wait up.
It’s gonna be another long night, but then it always is on December 24.

The jolly, old, fat man is set to make his annual trek. Chimneys the world over wait. Fireplaces are about to be pounced on.

Justin Smoak's days with the Seattle Mariners may be numbered.

As recently as 2008, the National League West was considered a sub-par division and filled with mediocre teams barely breaking the .500 mark.  

In 2005, for instance, the Giants, Dodgers, Rockies and Diamondbacks all finished the season with losing records, while the San Diego Padres won the division with a mere 82-80 mark.

Mediocrity aside, 2013 looks to be an exciting year for the National League West and its fans.