The Boston Red Sox appear to be looking in different directions as they shape their roster for the upcoming season. According to The Athletic, a union with free agent third baseman Alex Bregman "does not seem to be a priority" for the team. Instead, the Red Sox are exploring other avenues, including a potential trade for Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado or signing a free agent outfielder like Anthony Santander or Teoscar Hernández.


Acquiring Arenado would reunite him with former Rockies teammate Trevor Story on the left side of the infield. Such a move would likely shift Rafael Devers to first base or designated hitter, potentially opening up the opportunity to trade Triston Casas. While there are some concerns about Arenado's power decline last season, the hitter-friendly environment of Fenway Park could help mitigate those issues.


Anthony Santander, who recently hit 44 home runs for the Orioles, offers a powerful switch-hitting presence that could significantly bolster the Red Sox's lineup. Meanwhile, Teoscar Hernández, coming off a strong year with the World Series champion Dodgers and with prior experience in the AL East with the Blue Jays, is another intriguing option for Boston.

The Milwaukee Brewers have made a significant addition to their roster, signing free-agent left-handed pitcher Grant Wolfram to a major league contract. Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported the news, confirming that Wolfram has already passed his physical. This deal is a timely birthday present for Wolfram, who will turn 28 on Thursday. Represented by All Bases Covered Sports Management, Wolfram is joining a 40-man roster for the first time in his career.


Standing at an impressive 6'8", Wolfram has spent his professional career exclusively with the Texas Rangers organization. Over parts of three seasons in Double-A and another two in Triple-A, Wolfram has demonstrated his potential on the mound. While his Triple-A debut in 2023 was challenging, he rebounded with an excellent performance for the Rangers' top affiliate in Round Rock this past season. Wolfram posted a 3.34 ERA over 56 2/3 innings, boasting a solid 25.6% strikeout rate. Despite a higher-than-average 10.9% walk rate, Wolfram's ability to miss bats and generate ground balls (44.6% rate in 2024) has made him a promising addition to the Brewers' pitching staff.

The New York Yankees have reached an agreement with right-handed reliever Jonathan Loáisiga on a one-year contract, including a team option for the 2026 season, according to Jorge Castillo of ESPN. Despite concerns about Loáisiga's health following his internal brace surgery in April, Castillo reports that the pitcher is expected to return to the mound by late April 2025. Levi Luna first reported on X that the two sides were nearing a deal.


Loáisiga, 30, began his professional baseball journey with the San Francisco Giants as an international free agent in 2012. However, his career was marred by injuries, leading to his release by the Giants in 2015. The Yankees picked him up in 2016, but Loáisiga faced further setbacks, including a torn UCL that required Tommy John surgery and sidelined him until June 2017. Upon his return, he was outstanding, posting a 1.38 ERA and 2.17 FIP in 32.2 innings across Rookie Ball and Low-A. His performance earned him high rankings among prospects in New York's farm system.


Although Loáisiga struggled with injuries and inconsistent performance during his first three seasons in the majors (2018-20), his career took a turn for the better when he transitioned to a full-time relief role in 2021. His sinker, now reaching triple digits, became his go-to pitch, complemented by an unhittable curveball. Loáisiga delivered impressive results, finishing the season with a 2.17 ERA and 3.01 SIERA over 70 2/3 innings.


The Yankees' decision to bring back Loáisiga demonstrates their belief in his potential to be a key contributor to their bullpen despite his injury history. With his powerful arsenal and proven track record when healthy, Loáisiga could play a significant role in the Yankees' pitching staff for the upcoming season and beyond.

In a strategic move to strengthen their catching depth, the Boston Red Sox have acquired Carlos Narvaez from the New York Yankees. The trade, which also involved sending minor league pitcher Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz and international bonus pool space to the Yankees, highlights the Red Sox's commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

Narvaez, known for his strong defensive skills and ability to control the running game, brings a valuable asset to the Red Sox. Although he has struggled with strikeouts in the minors, his impressive walk rates and power potential make him an intriguing prospect for Boston's future.

To make room for Narvaez on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated infielder Enmanuel Valdez for assignment. This move underscores the team's focus on optimizing their roster composition and ensuring they have the best possible lineup for the challenges ahead.

With former New York Yankees slugger Juan Soto now with the New York Mets, the Yankees face the challenge of filling a significant void in their lineup as they prepare for the 2025 season. One name that has emerged as a potential target is Chicago Cubs outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger. However, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, there are substantial obstacles to overcome for the Yankees and Cubs to finalize a deal.

Bellinger is set to earn $27.5 million in 2025 and $25 million in 2026, with an opt-out clause after the 2025 season. The Yankees are reportedly seeking financial assistance from the Cubs to cover part of Bellinger's salary, a condition that Chicago is currently unwilling to meet. This report follows closely on the heels of Heyman's colleague Joel Sherman's revelation that the Cubs are looking to move either Bellinger or Seiya Suzuki, with Sherman highlighting Bellinger as a perfect fit for the Yankees. Cubs president Jed Hoyer recently expressed his expectation that Suzuki will remain with the team, thereby increasing the likelihood of a Bellinger trade.

In the 2024 season, Bellinger hit .266/.325/.426, with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs, and recorded a 2.2 WAR. This marked his second season with the Cubs after starting his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. As a Dodger, Bellinger achieved considerable success, including two All-Star appearances (2017, 2019), the 2019 NL MVP award, the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year award, and the 2018 NLCS MVP. He also played a key role in the Dodgers' 2020 World Series victory.

For the Yankees, acquiring Bellinger would address their need for a power-hitting lefty with positional versatility, capable of playing both outfield and first base—positions of need for the team.

Alex Bregman, who has spent his entire MLB career with the Houston Astros, is one of the top free agents this offseason. According to MLB's Mark Feinsand, four teams have shown significant interest in the talented third baseman: the Astros, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Detroit Tigers.


The Astros have reportedly offered Bregman a six-year, $156 million deal, but he is seeking a contract closer to $200 million. Bregman's teammates, including Jose Altuve, are hopeful he will return to Houston in 2025, prompting the team to make strategic moves to accommodate his potential return.


If the Red Sox decide to sign Bregman, he would likely transition to second base, allowing Rafael Devers to remain at third base. The Yankees' interest in Bregman has intensified following Juan Soto's signing with the New York Mets. Meanwhile, the Tigers are also keen on acquiring Bregman, though his price tag may be a challenge for Detroit.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly open to trading right-hander Mitch Keller, while Jared Jones is considered "very available," according to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. This news follows the Pirates' recent trade, which sent three players, including righty Luis Ortiz, to acquire left-handed hitter Spencer Horwitz. The Pirates appear willing to continue trading pitching for offensive talent, and Keller and Jones could bring significant returns.


Mitch Keller, 28, is under contract for $69.5 million from 2025-28. In the 2024 season, he pitched 178 innings with an ERA that was close to the league average. Meanwhile, Jared Jones, 23, had an impressive rookie season, striking out 132 batters over 121 ⅔ innings. Although he missed some time due to injury, Jones still has five seasons of team control remaining, making him an attractive option for teams looking for young pitching talent.


One thing is clear: Pittsburgh will not trade Paul Skenes. Beyond Skenes, however, it seems everyone else is potentially available for the right price. The Pirates' willingness to trade key pitchers signals their strategy to strengthen their offensive lineup and build a more balanced team for the future.

Sean Manaea's inaugural season with the New York Mets was arguably the best of his nine-year career. The left-hander delivered an impressive 181 2/3 innings, marking a career-high, and posted a stellar 3.47 ERA, his best over a full season. Manaea's performance saw him rank among the top 10 in the National League in several key categories: ninth in strikeouts (184), fifth in WHIP (1.08), and third in opponents' batting average (.202).


Given such success, the Mets are reportedly optimistic about re-signing Manaea. According to SNY's Andy Martino, there's "increasing optimism" within the organization about a potential reunion. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi also linked Manaea to the Mets, noting that the team continues to seek rotation help, even after acquiring Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes. Morosi suggested that Manaea's next contract could potentially be worth $100 million.


In the event that negotiations with Manaea fall through, the Mets are considering other options. One notable alternative is right-hander Nick Pivetta. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that the Mets had a meeting scheduled with Pivetta's agents. Pivetta, who will turn 32 next season, posted a 4.09 ERA with an 11.1 K/9 rate over the past two seasons with the Boston Red Sox. However, signing Pivetta would require the Mets to forfeit a 2025 Draft pick due to his qualifying offer from Boston.

The Washington Nationals have joined the Los Angeles Angels and Toronto Blue Jays in expressing interest in free-agent infielder Gleyber Torres, according to the New York Post. Washington has explored the possibility of Torres moving to third base, a position he has only played briefly in the minors and never in the Major Leagues. The Nationals' current infield setup includes Luis García at second base and CJ Abrams at shortstop, with trade deadline acquisition José Tena penciled in as next year's third baseman and top prospect Brady House also primarily playing third base.


Torres, who turns 28 later this month, is among the youngest free agents available this offseason. Despite a down year with the New York Yankees in 2024, where he slashed .257/.330/.378, Torres showed promise after being moved to the leadoff spot in August and again during the postseason. He has a strong history of power hitting and maintains better-than-average strikeout rates. Given his age and his underwhelming 2024 performance, Torres might be open to a short-term "prove it" contract to rebuild his value and re-enter free agency in 2025.


The Nationals' interest in Torres highlights their ongoing efforts to bolster their lineup with experienced talent to complement their young core, which includes promising players like James Wood, Dylan Crews, and CJ Abrams. Adding a veteran like Torres could provide the offensive spark and leadership needed to help guide their young team to greater success.

Free agent first baseman Christian Walker is attracting attention from several teams, including the Washington Nationals, according to Fansided. 


Walker, who will be 34 next season, has emerged as a reliable power hitter and a three-time Gold Glove winner over the past few years. In the 2023 season, he played 130 games and posted a .251/.335/.468 batting line (121 OPS+), with 26 doubles, 26 home runs, 84 RBIs, and a WAR of 2.6. Despite being a late bloomer, Walker has solidified himself as a formidable presence at the plate and a defensive asset.


The Nationals are a logical fit for Walker. They boast a promising young core with players like James Wood, Dylan Crews, and CJ Abrams. Adding a seasoned power hitter like Walker could provide valuable leadership and offensive production, helping to nurture and support the development of their young talents.

The Texas Rangers have reached an agreement with right-hander Jacob Webb on a one-year deal, according to a report from Robert Murray of FanSided. While the financial terms of the contract have not yet been disclosed, this move adds depth to the Rangers' bullpen.


Webb, who most recently played for the Baltimore Orioles, has been a reliable bullpen piece over the past two seasons. In 2024, he posted a solid 3.02 ERA over 60 games, striking out 9.2 batters per nine innings. His consistency and ability to get key outs will be valuable for the Rangers as they look to improve their pitching staff.


The Rangers have been active this offseason, also re-signing Nathan Eovaldi and making other strategic moves to bolster their roster. With Webb joining the team, the Rangers are positioning themselves for a competitive season ahead.

The Boston Red Sox are on the verge of finalizing a trade to acquire left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox, sources told ESPN. This strategic move leverages Boston's deep pool of prospects to secure one of the best starting pitchers available on the trade market.


As part of the deal, the Red Sox will send catcher Kyle Teel, outfielder Braden Montgomery, infielder Chase Meidroth, and right-hander Wikelman Gonzalez to the White Sox. This exchange highlights Boston's commitment to strengthening their pitching staff by adding top-tier talent.


Crochet excelled in his first season in the White Sox's rotation after transitioning from a relief role. The 25-year-old was dominant over 146 innings, striking out 209 batters while issuing only 33 walks. With a fastball that averages 97 mph, complemented by a high-end slider and an effective cutter, Crochet emerged as a frontline starter—the exact type of pitcher the Red Sox need as they look to rebound from a challenging five-year period that saw them finish last in the American League East three times.


Initial discussions between the teams explored multiple iterations of the trade, but talks accelerated after Boston's unsuccessful attempts to sign outfielder Juan Soto, left-hander Max Fried, and right-hander Nathan Eovaldi.

Crochet will join a rotation featuring right-handers Tanner Houck, Lucas Giolito, Brayan Bello, and Kutter Crawford. With his impressive track record, Crochet is likely to be considered for the Opening Day start, signaling a new era for the Red Sox pitching staff.

According to a report from SI.com, the Philadelphia Phillies have shown interest in former Angels left-hander Patrick Sandoval. The Angels opted to non-tender Sandoval, who was their 2024 Opening Day starter, to avoid paying him a projected $6 million salary while he rehabilitates from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent in June. As a result, Sandoval is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season.


When healthy, Sandoval excels at generating ground balls and limiting hard contact, qualities that the Phillies value in their pitchers, such as Ranger Suárez and Cristopher Sánchez. The team that signs Sandoval would likely place him on the 60-day injured list during his recovery next year, with the expectation of him contributing in 2026. At 28 years old, Sandoval would remain under team control as an arbitration-eligible player in 2026. However, to secure his services, a two-year guaranteed contract might be necessary, effectively locking him in for the 2026 season.

The New York Mets are scheduled to meet with free agent starting pitcher Nick Pivetta on Wednesday, according to the New York Post. Following the high-profile signing of Juan Soto, which solidifies an already potent offense, the Mets are now focusing on bolstering their pitching staff. This offseason, they have already added Frankie Montas and reliever Clay Holmes, who is expected to transition to a starting role.


Currently, the Mets' projected rotation includes Kodai Senga, Frankie Montas, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and Paul Blackburn. However, the addition of Pivetta could further enhance their pitching depth.


Pivetta, 31, has spent the last four-plus seasons with the Boston Red Sox. In 2023, he logged 145 ⅔ innings, posting a 4.14 ERA (103 ERA+) and a 1.13 WHIP, along with 172 strikeouts. Pivetta also has experience in the NL East, having started in four different seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Before Max Fried signed with the Yankees, the Texas Rangers reportedly offered him a seven-year contract worth $190 million, according to the New York Post. After missing out on Fried, the Rangers quickly pivoted and re-signed Nathan Eovaldi to a three-year deal worth $75 million. Interestingly, both contracts have a similar average annual value, meaning the Rangers would have spent roughly the same amount of money in the short term with either pitcher. The key difference would have been the long-term financial commitment, particularly in Years 4-7 of Fried's contract.


The Rangers' aggressive move for Fried raises questions about their financial strategy moving forward. With the re-signing of Eovaldi and the recent acquisition of Jake Burger, who has a near league minimum salary, it's unclear if the Rangers are still willing to spend big or if they have simply reallocated their 2025 dollars differently.


As the 2023 World Series champions, the Rangers are looking to maintain their competitive edge. While their position player group appears mostly set, barring any trades involving Adolis García, the team could benefit from additional pitching depth, particularly in the bullpen.

Right-hander Corbin Burnes entered this offseason as the top rotation option available in free agency. However, with last night's reported agreement between the Yankees and Max Fried, Burnes now stands as the only ace-level pitcher remaining on the open market. This position should strengthen Burnes' chances of exceeding MLBTR’s projected seven-year, $200 million contract.


While the Boston Red Sox reportedly made a formal offer for Burnes yesterday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com characterized the Blue Jays and Giants as the “most aggressive” teams in their pursuit of the star pitcher. Feinsand also noted that the Red Sox appear hesitant to spend at the level necessary to land Burnes.


Toronto, considered the “favorite” to sign Burnes, has been active in the free-agent market this winter. They recently agreed to terms with right-hander Yimi Garcia and traded for infielder Andres Gimenez and righty Nick Sandlin from the Guardians. These moves helped address the bullpen and infield, but the rotation remains a priority. The Jays traded lefty Yusei Kikuchi at the deadline, face the potential free agency departure of Chris Bassitt next winter, and saw Kevin Gausman regress last year. Given these needs, adding a top-of-the-rotation arm like Burnes makes sense.


Similarly, the Giants have a significant gap in their rotation after losing southpaw Blake Snell to the Dodgers. While San Francisco has been active in the upper levels of free agency in recent years, they may face financial challenges. Rumors suggest the Giants might scale back payroll this winter, making it difficult to sign Burnes. Sources told Feinsand they were skeptical about San Francisco outbidding Toronto if the Jays are determined to secure Burnes.


Interestingly, Feinsand’s report highlights the Red Sox's apparent pessimism as a suitor for Burnes. Despite their plans to be aggressive this offseason, particularly in pursuit of front-of-the-rotation arms, the Sox may be hesitant to invest heavily in Burnes. With Fried and Snell off the market, Burnes is the last clear ace available. If they miss out, the Red Sox could pursue a reunion with right-hander Nick Pivetta, though his 4.29 ERA over five seasons doesn't fit a front-of-the-rotation profile.

The 2024 Rule 5 Draft is set to take place this afternoon at 1 PM Central time during the Winter Meetings in Dallas. This event offers a unique opportunity for teams to acquire talented players who might otherwise be blocked by their current clubs. 


As a quick refresher, the Rule 5 Draft allows teams to select players who were 18 or younger at the time of their original signing and have played five professional seasons, or players who signed at 19 or older and have four professional seasons, provided they are not on a club’s 40-man roster. The selection order is determined by the reverse standings from the previous season, and teams must have an open 40-man roster spot to make a pick.


The first pick of this year's draft has already been reported by Jonathan Mayo of MLB Pipeline: the White Sox selected RHP Shane Smith from the Brewers.


Last year saw some notable players change teams, such as Mitch Spence going from the Yankees to the A's and Justin Slaten moving from the Rangers to the Mets (and then to the Red Sox). Other recent successful picks include Anthony Santander and Ryan Pressly, while historic names like George Bell and Roberto Clemente also came from the Rule 5 Draft.

Yesterday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported that the Los Angeles Angels are close to trading an outfielder. While no deal has been finalized, talks seem to be ongoing. Although it wasn’t specified which outfielder might be on the move, Feinsand suggested that Taylor Ward could be a likely candidate, given the rumors of other clubs showing interest in him. However, Ward’s agent, Joel Wolfe, told Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register that he hadn’t heard anything about trade discussions involving his client. This doesn't necessarily mean talks aren’t happening, but it has sparked some speculation.


Members of the Atlanta beat, like David O’Brien of The Athletic and Mark Bowman of MLB.com, reported that if there is a trade involving Ward, it won’t be with Atlanta.


Ward has long seemed like a logical trade candidate. With the Angels struggling to compete in recent years, there has been natural speculation about veteran players with limited years of club control remaining. Ward, who will turn 31 this Saturday, is under team control for two more seasons via arbitration.


If the Angels were considering a rebuild, trading Ward for younger, more controllable players would make sense. However, despite losing 99 games last season, the Halos are clearly aiming to compete in 2025. Both owner Arte Moreno and general manager Perry Minasian have expressed their intent to contend this winter, evident by their acquisitions of Yusei Kikuchi, Jorge Soler, Travis d’Arnaud, Kyle Hendricks, and others.

This offseason has seen the Boston Red Sox fall short in their pursuits of star players Juan Soto, who signed with the Mets, and Max Fried, who joined the Yankees. With these two targets off the board, the Red Sox are now turning their attention to one of the last premium free agents available: ace right-hander Corbin Burnes.


According to MassLive.com, the Red Sox made a serious bid for Fried, but their offer was significantly outpaced by the Yankees' successful $218 million deal. It remains unclear whether the Red Sox preferred Fried over Burnes, who has yet to sign. However, as of Tuesday afternoon, Boston was reportedly preparing an offer for Burnes. The star pitcher has also attracted interest from teams like the Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants, among others. With Fried now signed, Burnes could finalize his destination soon.


Burnes, 30, has been a consistent performer, finishing in the top 10 of the Cy Young balloting in each of the last five seasons. This impressive run includes winning the Cy Young Award with the Brewers in 2021 and finishing fifth in the voting last season with the Orioles. Given his track record, Burnes is expected to command a contract exceeding Fried's $218 million.


The addition of Burnes would be a significant boost for the Red Sox, who are looking to strengthen their rotation and compete more effectively in the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, Boston fans will be eagerly awaiting news of Burnes' decision, hoping he chooses to bring his talents to Fenway Park.

The New York Yankees' interest in first baseman Christian Walker, initially reported last month, has gained momentum after Juan Soto's record-breaking $765 million contract with the Mets was finalized. According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees renewed contract discussions with Walker's camp on Sunday evening, coinciding with the announcement of Soto's deal.


The Yankees swiftly shifted their focus to other position-player targets, highlighting their ability to pivot quickly in the market. This shift was evident when they signed pitcher Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million deal, demonstrating their intent to strengthen the roster further with Soto no longer available. Adding Walker would address both the Yankees' need for first base help and overall lineup enhancement in one move.


Fried's signing also complicates the Yankees' pursuit of Walker or any other free agent who declined a qualifying offer. As New York was a luxury tax payer in 2024 and Fried had rejected the Braves' qualifying offer, the Yankees had to forfeit $1 million in international bonus pool money, as well as their second- and fifth-highest picks in the 2025 draft. Signing Walker would incur similar penalties: another $1 million in international pool funds and their third- and sixth-highest selections.

After a solid season in the Royals’ bullpen, left-hander Angel Zerpa has started drawing attention from rival teams, as reported by MLB.com’s Anne Rogers. While there’s no indication that a deal is imminent or that Kansas City is even open to trading Zerpa, the Royals' apparent surplus of left-handed pitching could make a deal possible.


Currently, Cole Ragans is the ace of the Kansas City rotation and is unlikely to be moved. Kris Bubic, also probably not going anywhere, is set to return to starting pitching after recovering from injury. Zerpa, along with fellow left-handers Daniel Lynch IV, Sam Long, and prospects Noah Cameron and Evan Sisk, round out the Royals' 40-man roster. Both Lynch and Cameron are expected to compete for a rotation spot during Spring Training.


The Royals may want to see how their rotation shapes up before making any trade decisions. This includes evaluating Bubic’s health as he moves further away from his Tommy John surgery in April 2023, and monitoring Kyle Wright’s recovery after missing the entire 2024 season due to shoulder surgery. Zerpa stands out as the top left-handed option currently in the Royals’ bullpen, which might make the team hesitant to trade him. Given that the bullpen’s performance was middling overall in 2024 and the team’s pitching depth was already affected by the trade of Brady Singer to the Reds, the Royals might prefer to bolster their pen rather than diminish it further.

Roki Sasaki is arguably the most coveted free agent still on the market, considered a generational talent among Japanese superstar starting pitchers. Surprisingly, the Cincinnati Reds have a fighting chance to land the 23-year-old phenom.


Wait, what?


Sasaki was posted on Monday by his team, the Chiba Lotte Marines, initiating a 45-day window for Major League teams to negotiate and sign this potential ace. "I'd love to be able to have a conversation with him," Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall said at the Winter Meetings. "We’re going to try and do our best. He’s a player we scouted in Japan and we’ll see what happens." While the Dodgers and Padres are early favorites, and big-market teams like the Yankees, Mets, and Red Sox are also in the mix, the deal isn’t solely about having the largest payroll.


The reason lies in MLB's international amateur signing bonus pool rules. Since Sasaki is under 25 years old and hasn't amassed six years of professional service, he falls under these rules. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced last month that Sasaki will be part of the 2025 international amateur signing class. This situation significantly boosts the Reds' chances, as they hold one of the largest international bonus pools for the 2025 signing period at $7,555,500.


The Reds' substantial bonus pool, combined with their commitment to scout and potentially sign Sasaki, places them as serious contenders in this competitive market. It will be intriguing to see if Cincinnati can pull off this major coup and bring Sasaki to the Queen City.

As the trade market for Nolan Arenado continues to heat up, the no-trade clause in his contract gives him significant control over his potential move from the St. Louis Cardinals. According to MLB.com’s John Denton, Arenado would approve a trade to the Angels, Dodgers, Padres, Phillies, Mets, or Red Sox. It's unclear if these are the only teams on Arenado's "wish list," or if he would be open to other clubs under the right conditions.


During the Winter Meetings, Arenado’s agent, Joel Wolfe, discussed his client's situation with reporters, including Denton, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat, and Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Wolfe suggested that Arenado's list of potential teams is more extensive than it might seem. The main criterion for Arenado is finding "a team that he thinks is going to win now and consistently for the remainder of his career. He wants a team that has the throttle down...that he believes he can jump right in and they’re going to win right now."


Wolfe emphasized that Arenado is not interested in moving just for the sake of it. He stated, "Nolan's not going to go just to go," and "he's not going to approve and move his family and go play somewhere that would...sidestepping" into a situation no better than his current one in St. Louis. Wolfe also mentioned that he and Arenado have been in regular contact with Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak, who has suggested some teams that have already been ruled out by Arenado as "hard no’s."

The Los Angeles Angels have signed infielder Carter Kieboom to a minor league contract, according to Aram Leighton of Just Baseball Media. While specific details weren't disclosed, it's likely that Kieboom's contract includes an invitation to the Angels' big league spring training camp.


There's a notable twist in this move, as Kieboom finds himself reunited with Anthony Rendon in the same organization. Kieboom was once viewed as Rendon's successor at third base for the Washington Nationals. Selected 28th overall by the Nationals in the 2016 draft, Kieboom climbed the minor league ranks with impressive performances, landing on top-100 prospect lists. He made his MLB debut in 2019 with the Nationals, playing in 11 games. After Rendon signed with the Angels in the 2019-20 offseason, Kieboom seemed poised to take over third base duties in Washington.


However, Kieboom's major league career has been underwhelming so far. Over parts of four seasons, he has played 133 games and accumulated 508 plate appearances, falling short of expectations with a .199/.297/.301 batting line. His development was further hampered by missing most of the 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery. In 2023, he played in 27 games with the Nationals but spent the entire 2024 season at Triple-A after being outrighted off Washington’s 40-man roster.


For the Angels, signing Kieboom represents a low-risk opportunity to potentially unlock his once-promising talent. If Kieboom can regain his form and confidence, he could provide valuable depth and versatility to the Angels' infield. Fans will be watching his progress closely in spring training and throughout the season to see if he can finally deliver on his early potential.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have announced the acquisition of first baseman and second baseman Spencer Horwitz from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for right-hander Luis Ortiz and left-handed pitching prospects Josh Hartle and Michael Kennedy. This move comes shortly after the Guardians acquired Horwitz from the Toronto Blue Jays earlier in the day as part of the Andrés Giménez deal.


Horwitz, 27, is expected to compete for Pittsburgh's starting first base position. With Cleveland already having Josh Naylor and Kyle Manzardo, there was limited opportunity for Horwitz to play regularly. However, Pittsburgh offers a clearer path to playing time, especially after the release of Rowdy Tellez, who struggled as the team's primary first baseman in the 2024 season.


The left-handed hitting Horwitz has demonstrated considerable offensive potential both in Triple-A and the major leagues. This year, he posted an impressive .265/.357/.433 batting line over 381 plate appearances, hitting 12 home runs and 19 doubles. Horwitz also showcased excellent plate discipline, walking at an 11% rate while striking out 18.4% of the time.