MLB win totals: How we see the 2019 season unfolding  —  What I'm Hearing: Bob Nightengale was in attendance for Bryce Harper's introductory press conference for the Philadelphia Phillies.  He says it was made clear what the expectations are for this year and beyond.  —  CONNECT

Extensions are MLB's new normal.  Are Bryant, other Cubs next?  —  MESA, Ariz. — Has there been a change in strategy around baseball?  What used to be the goal of nearly every player — earning the right to choose which team he plays for — might now be less appealing.

Francisco Lindor ‘progressing well,’ making opening-day roster is question Indians seek to answer  —  The Cleveland Indians do not yet know if Francisco Lindor will be ready for opening day later this month, but feel he is ‘progressing well.’  —  CLEVELAND — Cleveland Indians shortstop …

Only 20, Cardinals prospect Dylan Carlson draws attention with outfield defense  —  LAKELAND, Fla.  • By showing off his range at multiple positions, rising prospect Dylan Carlson has started to expand how the Cardinals' major-league staff would like to see him utilized this coming season.

JESSICA MENDOZA NAMED BASEBALL OPERATIONS ADVISOR  —  The New York Mets announced today that Jessica Mendoza has been named a baseball operations advisor for the club.  —  In her new role, Mendoza will provide insight to Executive Vice President & General Manager Brodie Van Wagenen as well as the entire Baseball Operations Department.

Mets may have to make alternative infield plans with Todd Frazier, Jed Lowrie injuries  —  JUPITER, Fla. — Third baseman Todd Frazier (oblique strain) started his running progression Tuesdays, but there is still no update on Jed Lowrie (left knee).  —  Frazier took several days off …

Clippers knock out Lakers, likely ending their playoff dreams  —  LOS ANGELES — Just over a month ago, LeBron James made a triumphant return against the Clippers - the franchise that's so often played second fiddle in their own town.  —  Monday night, the Clippers paid him back …

Those who insist that Joey Gallo must bunt more might be rejoicing this season.  Here's why  —  Oh, to be Drew Smyly, at least on Tuesday.  —  That has nothing to do with baseball but geography.  —  Smyly lives in Scottsdale.  The beat writers are housed in Surprise.

Newest Blue Jay Buchholz ready to embrace challenge of returning to AL East  —  DUNEDIN - He's 34 years old and some of his most electric stuff might be behind him, but Clay Buchholz isn't even remotely intimidated about returning to face the batting beasts of the American League East.

Dodgers ace Kershaw could miss opening day start  —  Clayton Kershaw might not be on the mound when the two-time NL champion Los Angeles Dodgers start the season.  —  The lefty ace is working his way back from shoulder soreness that caused him to shut down his spring training.

Yankees Scratch Luis Severino From Spring Outing With Shoulder Discomfort  —  The Yankees announced today that prized righty Luis Severino would miss his scheduled spring outing.  He had begun to warm up but experienced “discomfort” in his pitching shoulder, per the team.

Detroit Tigers observations: Spring training fields leaving regulars sore  —  LAKELAND, Fla. — On an unseasonably cool day, damp conditions forced Detroit Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire to overhaul his starting lineup.  —  With rain pouring down hours before Tuesday afternoon's spring training game …

Prospect watching: Rangers top prospect Hans Crouse throws a bullpen session  —  Hans Crouse hasn't had the same good fortune as fellow prospect Bubba Thompson, who is among the pool of just-in-case players from the minor leagues who have been filling in during Texas Rangers spring games.