Steve Henson

Steve Henson
Yahoo! Sports
Steve Henson
Steve Henson is the MLB editor for Yahoo! Sports. He previously worked at the Los Angeles Times, where he covered Major League baseball, college football and college basketball and did investigative reporting.

Send Steve a question or comment for potential use in a future column or webcast.

 Archived Opinions
Offseason storylines are plentiful November 8, 2009
From Dodger turmoil to Yankee reloading to impending retirements, the hot stove will burn brightly.

Epic ALCS Game 5 saved worst for last October 23, 2009
Nick Swisher's ill-fated at-bat against shaky Angels closer Brian Fuentes was an awful way to end a classic.

Yankees confident in short-rested Sabathia October 20, 2009
Despite last year's meltdown for Milwaukee, CC Sabathia is being counted on to step up in Game 4 of the ALCS.

One bad inning won't shake Kershaw October 15, 2009
Despite imploding in Game 1 of the NLCS, Clayton Kershaw shouldn't follow in Chad Billingsley's footsteps.

Papelbon's meltdown was felt mile-high October 12, 2009
The Rockies and Phillies understood the pain of the Red Sox closer's blown save.

For Dodgers, sweep of Cards just a start October 10, 2009
The Dodgers' celebration was tempered after an NLDS sweep – they've got bigger plans.

Big blunder bites Holliday, Cardinals October 8, 2009
Matt Holliday lost the ball in the lights and triggered a Dodgers rally that has the Cards in an 0-2 hole in their NLDS.

La Russa and Torre are at a loss October 4, 2009
Veteran managers Tony La Russa and Joe Torre aren't too worried about their teams' late-season struggles.

Dodger doldrums start with Ramirez October 3, 2009
Manny Ramirez isn't catching up to fastballs, but the Rockies are catching up to the Dodgers.

Giants seize momentum in wild NL wild-card race August 30, 2009
The Giants and Rockies are the favorites in a race that will be decided between the Giants' stellar arms and the Rockies' consistent cool.

Trade Tracker: Deals near the deadline July 31, 2009
From Jake Peavy and Victor Martinez to an assortment of prospects, every key July trade is analyzed.

Boo-birds extinct in Mannywood July 16, 2009
Manny Ramirez was heartily welcomed back home, perhaps marking a shift in attitude toward steroids.

MLB cancels meeting with Byrd July 9, 2009
Marlon Byrd's meeting with MLB officials to discuss use of supplements provided by Victor Conte was canceled.

Byrd, MLB to talk about Conte ties July 8, 2009
Investigators want to question Rangers OF Marlon Byrd about his dealings with BALCO founder Victor Conte.

Manny talks a lot, provides few answers July 3, 2009
Manny Ramirez apologized to fans during a news conference before his return to the field after a long suspension.

Byrd takes Conte's supplements without apology June 24, 2009
Rangers outfielder Marlon Byrd is the only MLB player using a program devised by BALCO founder Victor Conte.

Strasburg goes underground for negotiations June 9, 2009
To no surprise, Stephen Strasburg went No. 1 in the draft. Now he'll lay low and let agent Scott Boras work.

Mock draft: No. 1 pick a no-brainer June 9, 2009
The draft's intrigue centers on the signability of Stephen Strasburg and other Scott Boras prospects.

Tate tops group of prep stars June 8, 2009
Don't expect to find the next Gordon Beckham in this class. But there are some hidden gems.

High school pitchers bring risks, rewards June 8, 2009
Nine prep hurlers could squeeze into the first round of Tuesday's draft despite the abundance of college pitchers.

Position players may not cut it in first round June 7, 2009
With a first round focused on pitching, position players may be playing a waiting game in Tuesday's draft.

Strasburg one of several coveted college pitchers June 7, 2009
The strength of the draft Tuesday will be college pitchers – starting with phenom Stephen Strasburg.

Strasburg should get used to struggle May 29, 2009
Projected top draft pick Stephen Strasburg received an early look into what he'll deal with in the majors – struggle.

Power Rankings: Dodgers regain top spot May 21, 2009
L.A. continues to play well without Manny Ramirez as the Blue Jays fade against their AL East rivals.

Mum's the word for Manny May 18, 2009
Staying true to form, Manny Ramirez doesn't plan on publicly speaking about his 50-game suspension.

It's time for Ramirez to get serious May 9, 2009
An expert at avoiding conflict, Manny Ramirez now has no choice but to face the world.

Mannywood's citizens glum May 7, 2009
The Dodgers put their "Mannywood" ad campaign – as well as No. 99 merchandise – on hold.

At the letters: Speed bumps ahead April 1, 2009
Stephen Strasburg is unofficially one of the fastest hurlers in baseball history. Many readers have their own "worthy" candidates.

Strasburg is on the all-time fastest track March 24, 2009
Stephen Strasburg might throw harder than any pitcher ever. The college kid will soon discover how much that's worth.

Manny mailbag: Readers weary, wary March 1, 2009
Talks between the Dodgers and Manny Ramirez's agent, Scott Boras, have grown tiresome. Buyer beware.

Ramirez and the Dodgers could be closing in February 27, 2009
Despite negotiating through the media by email, Manny Ramirez and the Dodgers appear to be nearing a deal.

Feller remains a vibrant presence at 90 February 26, 2009
Bob Feller threw out the first pitch at the Indians' new spring ballpark, and he'll be back every day.

Hot Stove Daily: Los Angeles Dodgers February 11, 2009
Adam Dunn and Bobby Abreu are off the market, so alternatives to Manny Ramirez are nonexistent.

Hot Stove Daily: San Diego Padres January 27, 2009
Jake Peavy remains despite efforts to deal him, but otherwise the budget-conscious Padres have little to offer.

Hot Stove Daily: St. Louis Cardinals January 25, 2009
The unexpected loss of Troy Glaus is the latest injury issue to befall the retrenching Cardinals.

Hot Stove Daily: Milwaukee Brewers January 22, 2009
The Brewers can hit the long ball, but is that enough after losing CC Sabathia and Ben Sheets?

Hot Stove Daily: Chicago Cubs January 20, 2009
The Cubs enter another season with plenty of talent but plenty of pressure following a postseason flameout.

Hot Stove Daily: Pittsburgh Pirates January 18, 2009
The Pirates are destined for their record 17th straight losing season – even if they sign Pedro Martinez.

Hot Stove Daily: Cincinnati Reds January 14, 2009
GM Walt Jocketty wants his Reds to look more like his old Redbirds teams.

Hot Stove Daily: Houston Astros January 11, 2009
The Astros finished strong in '08 but sharply curtailed offseason spending, leaving questions and holes.

Time on Dodgers' side in Manny race November 3, 2008
With many teams looking to court Manny Ramirez, the Dodgers will turn their immediate attention on a trio of other team needs.

At the Letters: Conflicted Phillies fans October 31, 2008
Phillies fans defend their city, explain their behavior and break down their reasoning for booing Santa Claus.

For Philly fans, winning is torture October 27, 2008
Success is causing an existential crisis for the City of Brotherly Love's rabid and boorish spectators.

Cashing in on hope October 23, 2008
Nearly a year ago, a long-suffering Rays fan put $100 on his team to win the World Series. His 250-to-1 whim could net him 25 grand.

Rays save biggest surprise for last October 20, 2008
The Rays have defied convention all season and nothing encapsulated it more than David Price's Game 7 save.

Ramirez will play hard to get October 16, 2008
Manny Ramirez's short, productive tenure with the Dodgers pumped up his free-agent value, and he knows it.

Phillies duo relishes sweet redemption October 14, 2008
With two big swings, Shane Victorino and Matt Stairs stepped into the spotlight and proved their worth.

Short spark plug charges L.A., not Philly October 12, 2008
Round 3 in the battle of dueling shortstops – Rafael Furcal and Jimmy Rollins – goes to the artful Dodger.

Phillies' surprise big bat in Myers' hands October 10, 2008
Phillies pitcher Brett Myers is "baffled" by his recent success at the plate, including going 3 for 3 in the Game 2 win over the Dodgers.

Lowe not down about mental lapse October 9, 2008
The Dodgers' Derek Lowe won't admit he was rattled by a teammate's error, but he won't lose sleep over it either.

Dodgers' booms and busts coexist October 8, 2008
As the NLCS begins, it's worth asking: Has there ever been a team with such an inverse relationship between cost and production?

White Sox walk into survival October 5, 2008
The White Sox capitalized on several free passes and avoided a three-game sweep by the Rays in the ALDS.

Sabathia struggles – period October 2, 2008
CC Sabathia pitched just like C.C. did in postseasons past, and the Brewers are in trouble.

Phillies off to fast start for a change October 1, 2008
Cole Hamels' devastating change-up resulted in eight shutout innings of the Phillies' Game 1 win over the Brewers.

Phillies hoping experience counts vs. Brewers October 1, 2008
Getting flattened by the Rockies in three games a year ago has set Philadelphia up for some steamrollering of its own.

On final Shea day, Mets find no relief September 28, 2008
The Mets thought they had the right plan in their season finale, but as has been the case all year, their relief pitching did them in.

Santana smooth when Mets need him most September 27, 2008
New York ace shuts out Florida to pull Mets into a wild-card tie with Milwaukee entering season's last day.

Longoria resumes Rookie of the Year chase September 6, 2008
Rays third baseman Evan Longoria is off the DL and remains the favorite for the AL award.

Could it be a 'Rock-tember' to remember? September 3, 2008
A year ago the Rockies embarked on a historic winning streak. A pitiable NL West presents another opportunity in the land of booms and busts.

Navarro is the Rays' soul man August 30, 2008
The All-Star catcher displays so much maturity at such a young age, it's almost as if he's lived through this before.

Manny ready to 'follow the rules' August 1, 2008
The newest Dodger has a new number and a new plan for his time in L.A. – fitting in.

Late deal shuffles deadline winners, losers July 31, 2008
The Dodgers, Red Sox and Pirates all emerged as last-minute winners, while the Astros and Mariners are the leading losers.

Maddux doesn't want to leave West Coast July 29, 2008
Teams all over have expressed interest, but Maddux reiterated to the Padres his desire to stay in West.

Padres' Young doesn't smell fear in return July 28, 2008
Pitcher Chris Young admits he isn't the same since suffering facial damage, but hopes to fully bounce back.

Underachievers force Dodgers to pick up Blake July 26, 2008
Andy LaRoche's failure to seize the third-base job and Blake DeWitt's summer fade cost L.A. two prize prospects.

Pertinent post-All-Star break issues July 17, 2008
Questions for each team come to mind two at a time as the season enters its second half.

AL extends All-Star dominance July 15, 2008
Everything about the All-Star game was long, including the pregame ceremonies. It was only fitting the game was a historic marathon.

Pass out the midterm report cards July 1, 2008
We don't grade on a curve, and that's why only the Rays get an A-plus while three teams are given Fs.

Separating deal makers from fakers June 19, 2008
The trade deadline is six weeks away, but it's not too early to group teams into buyers and sellers.

MLB first-round projections June 3, 2008
College relievers and corner infielders are plentiful – and so are the choices faced by the Rays, who have the first pick.

Howard can't hit what he can't see May 11, 2008
Slumping Phillies slugger Ryan Howard admits he isn't comfortable at the plate and isn't tracking pitches well.

Don't be seduced by April fool's gold April 20, 2008
The Pirates' Nate McLouth and the Cubs' Reed Johnson lead the list of April's surprising top performers.

Advance scouting on Beijing Olympics April 15, 2008
Recent MLB games in China offered a glimpse at problems that could confront the world at the 2008 Games.

Melancholy rules in final Yankee Stadium opener April 1, 2008
A new stadium awaits the Yankees next season, but "The House that Ruth Built" will never be completely gone.

Nats new stadium is prosperity park March 30, 2008
The Washington Nationals' shiny new stadium is a testament to the current and long-range growth of MLB.

Civil Rights Game is a King's cause March 29, 2008
MLB event honors 40th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s death, but it might move from Memphis.

Cash keeps MLB Japan trip from falling apart March 19, 2008
The Red Sox and A's were prepared to boycott a two-game series in Tokyo unless coaches received the same $40,000 stipend as players.

A secondary issue for Soriano, again March 18, 2008
Batting order, not defense, is the latest question surrounding the Cubs OF, who may not bat leadoff.

China gains a new sporting interest March 16, 2008
MLB's first games in China captivated fans, but the stadium used may not survive.

Tense moment in China is defused March 15, 2008
Chinese security guards formed a barrier to keep Chan Ho Park from accommodating Korean autograph seekers.

China is tie-land for Dodgers, Padres March 15, 2008
The fans enjoyed the event, but MLB's first game in China didn't quite go off without a hitch.

Baseball's missionaries March 14, 2008
The Dodgers and Padres are in China, but two anonymous coaches are the ones truly spreading MLB's gospel.

Baseball faces its own great wall in China March 13, 2008
Convincing the Chinese to adopt and embrace baseball will require overcoming a great wall of indifference.

Bound for the Far East March 12, 2008
MLB's mission of spreading baseball into every corner of the globe brings the game to China.

Baseball delivers its pitch to China March 11, 2008
The Padres and Dodgers are headed to China for a pair of games and a chance to turn America's pastime into the next big thing.

Roger Clemency February 28, 2008
This generation's greatest pitcher could be remembered for leaning on a presidential pardon to avoid jail.

Clemens drama worthy of 'Sopranos' February 11, 2008
Some questions and answers the Mitchell Report failed to tackle regarding Roger Clemens and his ex-trainer.

It's a shopper's paradise for GMs January 21, 2008
There is a glut of players to pick through during MLB's current free-agent sales spectacular.

Diamond dominators December 26, 2007
Predicting the top five MLB teams for 2008 is an all-American enterprise.

MLB suspends Guillen, Gibbons December 6, 2007
Outfielders Jose Guillen and Jay Gibbons were handed 15-day suspensions for violations of MLB's drug policy.

Jones deal gives Dodgers bargaining chip December 6, 2007
Though Andruw Jones lost some luster last season, his $36 million, two-year deal with the Dodgers makes sense for both parties.

Domino effect at the winter meetings December 2, 2007
Even when the market is as scarce as it is this offseason, one signing or trade can spark more.

Hot Stove Daily: Toronto Blue Jays December 1, 2007
The Blue Jays need more consistency from their players, but does it matter when they have to compete with the Red Sox and Yankees?

Hot Stove Daily: Seattle Mariners November 28, 2007
Flush with cash and intoxicated by a winning season, the M's still have holes to fill in a thin free-agent market.

Hot Stove Daily: Oakland Athletics November 23, 2007
Expect A's general manager Billy Beane to cobble together a decent team, but the players need to stay healthy.

Hunter addition shows Angels are in bold mode November 22, 2007
With the addition of Torii Hunter in center field, the Angels confirm their intention to compete with the top AL teams.

Hot Stove Daily: Minnesota Twins November 21, 2007
The Twins won't likely have enough salary muscle to keep Johan Santana and Joe Nathan.

Hot Stove Daily: Los Angeles Angels November 19, 2007
The Angels hope to improve when injuries heal, but need to bolster lineup to keep pace in AL.

Hot Stove Daily: Florida Marlins November 16, 2007
The Marlins have tempting trade bait, but it might not be enough to reel in enough talent to field a winning team.

Hot Stove Daily: Cleveland Indians November 13, 2007
This well-run organization needs only to tinker with the roster, sew up C.C. Sabathia and rake in additional revenue.

Hot Stove Daily: Atlanta Braves November 7, 2007
This is a team that sorely wants to make one last push with John Smoltz, Chipper Jones and, presumably, Tom Glavine.

Dodgers stealth tactics land their man November 2, 2007
Although hiring Joe Torre could be Frank McCourt's finest hour, the details aren't for the squeamish.

Lowell shows his value October 29, 2007
Mike Lowell entered free agency with a bang, being named most valuable player on a team full of candidates.

All in perspective October 28, 2007
World Series Game Four starters Jon Lester and Aaron Cook are survivors of truly do-or-die situations.

Time to head for the hills October 27, 2007
With the World Series all but over, Colorado fans will turn for consolation to the Rockies. The mountains, that is.

Rox hoping for Fogg October 27, 2007
The Rockies host their first World Series game hoping Josh Fogg can rise to the challenge.

Time for Rockies to pull plug on humidor October 26, 2007
Colorado has one hope to win the World Series: Turn back the clock to the Coors Field of old.

Colorado seeks recovery after Rocky start October 24, 2007
The Rockies had grown accustomed to winning, but a 13-1 humiliation leaves them searching for redemption.

Clubs go all-in for rematch October 24, 2007
After a seemingly meaningless June series won by Colorado, the Red Sox and Rockies meet with much more at stake.

Helton's just reward October 16, 2007
In his 11th season, the splendid Rockies first baseman finally reaches the World Series.

Tangled Webb for D'backs October 14, 2007
The D'backs starting Brandon Webb for Game 4 makes perfect sense, except to Bob Melvin.

Rockies Hawpe to it in opening win of NLCS October 11, 2007
Brad Hawpe continued his mastery of Brandon Webb as Colorado took Game 1 of the NLCS.

Shedding light on faceless stars of NLCS October 10, 2007
Take a tour in the NLCS clubhouses and you'll find interesting characters. And they're pretty good ballplayers, too.

Winning altitude October 7, 2007
The white-hot Rockies soar into the NLCS after sweeping the Phillies aside.

Another life for Rockies' Matsui October 5, 2007
Japanese import has shed the bust label slapped on him in New York and is thriving with the Rockies.

Young Snakes show they belong in postseason October 5, 2007
The youthful Diamondbacks have upstaged the Cubs and are playing like veterans worthy of a trip to the NLCS.

Sweet Lou's move backfires, sours Cubs' outlook October 3, 2007
Cubs fans have every right to be fuming over Lou Piniella's quick-trigger in Game 1 of the NLDS against Arizona.

A fly on the wall in Phoenix October 2, 2007
The Cubs and Diamondbacks illustrated their differences in a series of short cuts on the day before NLDS Game 1.

Rock and roll October 2, 2007
Colorado clawed its way back from the NL West basement to make the playoffs, where the red-hot Phillies await.

Peak performance September 30, 2007
The red-hot Rockies won Sunday to earn a one-game duel with the Padres for the final playoff spot.

Series Glance: Yankees-Indians September 30, 2007
How the Yankees and Indians match up in their American League playoff series.

Miracle smiles September 18, 2007
Thousands of disabled children are able to play baseball, thanks to the fast-growing Miracle League.

Ye old ball game August 23, 2007
"Ball Four" author Jim Bouton is bringing authentic 1880s baseball to life with the Vintage Base Ball Federation.

Pitching a fit August 23, 2007
The Dodgers' fifth starter has been a problem, and there's no relief in sight.

Jennings can't win, but payday awaits August 16, 2007
Jason Jennings has only two victories, yet he still could command a lucrative deal as a free agent.

Homer history a family affair for Bacsik August 8, 2007
Nationals pitcher found himself in a similar situation to his father, though the outcome was historically different.

Gwynn, Ripken are passionate about teaching July 29, 2007
Since retiring as players, the two Hall of Famers have devoted their lives to imparting their knowledge to others.

Down the Hall July 24, 2007
PASADENA, Calif. – Turn to the Baseball Reliquary for a welcome distraction from all things Barry Bonds.

Penny still money July 21, 2007
LOS ANGELES – Despite minor temper flare-ups, Brad Penny continues to win at a record pace.

Bonds rips Bonds July 15, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO – The slumping slugger curses himself and his uniform after the Giants' third loss in a row.

No quit, just hit July 11, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO – Dmitri Young has exorcised demons off the field, got healthy and is thriving in Washington.

Ichiro is AL's trick-shot artist July 10, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO – Suzuki's riveting dash around bases gives AL 10th straight All-Star Game victory.

All-Star notes: La Russa wants larger roster July 9, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO – National League manager says MLB should add a "distinguished career" spot for deserving vets.

A rising star, catching July 9, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO – Russell Martin's attention to detail has made the young Dodger backstop one of the best in the game.

Chamberlain on a rapid rise July 8, 2007
SAN FRANCISCO – Yankees farmhand, a member of the Winnebago Tribe, shows his stuff at the Futures Game.