The top storylines to follow this MLB season

The GIST: A season that spans 162 games from March to September provides plenty of opportunity for pondering. The introduction of the Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System (ABS) is undoubtedly the biggest shakeup of the season, but first, here are the other major storylines we’re following before first pitch.

👑 Can anyone beat the LA Dodgers?: The two-time defending champs are synonymous with the postseason, reaching the World Series in five of the last nine seasons. And this team is somehow even better than before, armed with a fully healthy Shohei Ohtani, plus top free agents, outfielder Kyle Tucker and closer Edwin Diaz. It’ll take some Hollywood dramatics to dethrone this dynasty.

🔒 Potential lockout looms: Fresh off the lengthy WNBA collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, the current MLB CBA expires on December 1st, shortly after the season ends. The two sides are already divided — specifically when it comes to the implementation of a salary cap — pointing to a massive labor dispute to come...especially if the deep-pocket Dodgers three-peat.

👶 How will the up-and-comers perform?: A plethora of top prospects will either continue their rising MLB careers or likely make their Big League debuts, including 22-year-old Toronto Blue Jays hurler Trey Yesavage (who dazzled in the playoffs last year), 19-year-old Pittsburgh Pirates phenom Konnor Griffin, and Baltimore Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo. The kids are certainly alright.