Morning Mound Visit: sabermetrics news - 3/21/19

FanGraphs | Eric Longenhagen: Brandon Lowe was extended by the Rays, and with a 50 FV prospect potential and already some seasoning at the big league level, this could be a good deal for both sides. Lowe is already 24 years-old and this will take him through 30, so players will definitely continue to scoop up these deals to lock in money they’re not necessarily guaranteed in their 20s, and certainly won’t get in their 30s.

Baseball Prospectus | Aaron Gleeman ($): Looking at Mike Trout’s long-term PECOTA projections, how likely is it that he becomes the greatest player (by WARP) of all-time? Probably not likely. If he produces at his usual clip through his contract, then he’ll likely be third all-time, about 10 wins behind Willie Mays and 20 wins behind Barry Bonds. To eclipse them, he will need to put up numbers even considered other-worldly for him.

The Ringer | Daniel Chin: After a tragic World Series performance and a disappointing 2018 riddled with injury, Yu Darvish looks as healthy and ready as ever, and he is probably one of the better candidates for NL Comeback Player of the Year if things break right. Considering his history, performance, and international pedigree, there shouldn’t be any doubting him.