Ken Rosenthal on Front Offices under pressure, Chris Sale, & NL Rookie of the Year Race

Got a question or comment for Rosenthal? Email him at krosenthal@theathletic.com or follow him on Twitter @Ken_Rosenthal. **With the trade deadline approaching, what are the pressures that front offices face?** The most obvious pressure is to make a deal that helps the team win now. This can be difficult, as teams may be reluctant to give up prospects or take on salary in order to acquire a player. Front offices must also be aware of the competitive landscape and make sure that they are not making a move that will put the team at a disadvantage. **What are the biggest challenges facing top free agents like Chris Sale this offseason?** The biggest challenge for top free agents like Chris Sale is finding a team that is willing to pay them what they are worth. Teams are increasingly reluctant to give out long-term contracts, and Sale is likely to command a deal of at least five years. Sale is also coming off a down year, which could make it difficult for him to get the contract he wants. **Who are the favorites for NL Rookie of the Year?** The favorites for NL Rookie of the Year are Ronald Acuña Jr. of the Atlanta Braves and Juan Soto of the Washington Nationals. Both players have had outstanding seasons, and they are both considered to be potential future stars. Acuña is a dynamic outfielder who can hit for power and steal bases, while Soto is a switch-hitting infielder who has shown a knack for getting on base. **What are the biggest surprises of the MLB season so far?** The biggest surprises of the MLB season so far have been the performances of the Oakland Athletics and the Tampa Bay Rays. Both teams were expected to be rebuilding this year, but they have both been in contention for a playoff spot. The Athletics have been led by a young and talented pitching staff, while the Rays have been boosted by a strong offense. **What are the biggest disappointments of the MLB season so far?** The biggest disappointments of the MLB season so far have been the performances of the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Both teams were expected to be contenders for the World Series, but they have both struggled to meet expectations. The Yankees have been plagued by injuries, while the Dodgers have been inconsistent.