Opinion

Let the debates begin. 

The Baseball Writers Association of America has officially announced the finalists for the four major awards in both the American and National Leagues that will be handed out over the week of November 11. 

This is still a new process for MLB, with the BBWAA naming finalists for the first time last year before handing out the hardware.

The Toronto Blue Jays announced on Monday that they won't give pitcher Josh Johnson a qualifying offer, which means Johnson is now an unrestricted free agent.

This may well be an opportunity for the San Diego Padres.

This Major League Baseball offseason is setting up to feature a bevy of activity. As always, pitching is going to be in high demand.

Cubs power-pitcher Jeff Samardzija is a hot name, but not nearly as hot at the Rays' David Price.

Meanwhile, I expect a lot of rumors and some movement involving right-handed power bats. Mark Trumbo would appear to be the hottest name of the moment in that department. 

The New York Yankees are preparing for life after Robinson Cano, or so it seems.

According to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, the Yankees have made contact with the Cincinnati Reds about second baseman Brandon Phillips:

St. Louis’ World Series loss to Boston was disheartening and frustrating.

Despite falling short of their 12th title in franchise history, the Cardinals' historic accomplishments shouldn’t go unnoticed. 

Major League Baseball's free-agent period is open for business, signaling the unofficial start of the hot stove, yearly banter about the ridiculous nature of long-term contracts and, as always, a premium placed upon high-end starting pitching.

With the confetti still lining the city streets following their World Series victory, the Boston Red Sox are plotting moves that will help bring the franchise a second consecutive championship next year. 

Just a few days into the MLB offseason, the rumor mill is already in full swing, and one of the most interesting names that has been brought up so far is Cubs right-hander Jeff Samardzija.

Former Philadelphia Phillies stars Lenny Dykstra and Mitch Williams were allegedly involved in an altercation at an autograph signing at a Philadelphia mall, according to Kyle Scott of

Following one of the worst seasons in Chicago White Sox history, general manager Rick Hahn has his hands full as he prepares for the 2014 season. A return to competitiveness in the AL Central is a tall task, indeed.

Is there a definitive blueprint Hahn can follow to make sure the White Sox enter next year ready for a successful campaign, though? Of course not. If there was, every team would be following it, but Hahn is off to a riotous start.