Cookie's future, Guardians' non-tender candidates and another brick in the wall (Podcast)
The future of cookies
The future of cookies is uncertain. Third-party cookies, which are used to track users across the web, are being phased out by major browsers. This is due to concerns about privacy and data security. First-party cookies, which are used to track users on a single website, are still allowed. However, it is unclear how long this will be the case.
There are a number of alternatives to cookies that are being developed. These include fingerprinting, which uses a combination of browser and device settings to identify users, and contextual targeting, which uses information about the user's current browsing session to target ads.
It is too early to say what the future of cookies will be. However, it is clear that the way we track and target users online is changing. Businesses need to be prepared to adapt to these changes.
Guardians' non-tender candidates
The Guardians non-tendered four players on Tuesday: outfielder Oscar Mercado, infielder Yu Chang, catcher Roberto Perez, and pitcher Nick Wittgren.
Mercado, 28, was a first-round pick by the Indians in 2015. He has played in the majors since 2019, and has a career batting average of .271/.329/.467. He is a good defender in center field, but he has struggled to hit consistently.
Chang, 27, was acquired by the Indians from the Blue Jays in 2020. He has played in the majors since 2019, and has a career batting average of .262/.316/.403. He is a versatile infielder who can play second base, third base, and shortstop.
Perez, 34, has been with the Indians since 2014. He is a two-time Gold Glove winner, and has a career batting average of .235/.302/.415. He is a good leader and mentor for the young pitchers on the staff.
Wittgren, 31, was acquired by the Indians from the Marlins in 2021. He has played in the majors since 2016, and has a career ERA of 3.66. He is a right-handed reliever who can pitch in multiple innings.
The Guardians are in a rebuilding mode, and these moves are part of that process. The team is trying to get younger and more athletic, and they are looking to add players who can help them win now and in the future.
Another brick in the wall
The Guardians have added another brick to their wall in the form of first baseman Josh Bell.
Bell, 29, was acquired by the Guardians from the Nationals on Tuesday in exchange for a package of prospects. Bell is a two-time All-Star and a Silver Slugger award winner. He has a career batting average of .272/.363/.481.
Bell is a switch-hitter who can play first base and outfield. He is a good hitter with power and a good on-base percentage. He is also a good fielder.
The Guardians are excited to add Bell to their team. He is a proven hitter who can help them win now and in the future.