 The Boston Red Sox are leaving no stone unturned as they seek to bolster their pitching rotation. After successfully trading for White Sox ace Garrett Crochet, the team continues to explore both the trade and free agent markets for additional starting pitchers. Intriguingly, they are also considering an internal option that has caught many by surprise.
Speaking at the Winter Meetings, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow revealed that Michael Fulmer could potentially start for the Red Sox in 2025, a surprising development given Fulmer's recent history. The veteran right-hander, who is currently recovering from UCL surgery, has not pitched since 2023 and has not been a regular starter since the 2020 season. Furthermore, Fulmer has not thrown more than five innings in a single outing since September 2018. Fulmer, who will turn 32 in March, was a reliable starter during his first three seasons in the majors. He earned the AL Rookie of the Year award in 2016 with the Detroit Tigers and was selected as an All-Star the following year. From 2016 to 2018, Fulmer made 75 starts, pitching 456 innings with a 3.81 ERA and a 4.32 SIERA. His promising career was derailed by elbow issues, culminating in Tommy John surgery in 2019 that sidelined him for the entire season. Upon returning in 2020, Fulmer struggled significantly, with his velocity down and an 8.78 ERA over 10 starts. This led to the Tigers shifting him to the bullpen in 2021, where he has pitched since. His transition to a reliever was marked by varying degrees of success, but the Red Sox see potential for him to contribute as a starter once again.
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 In a major move that's shaking up the MLB offseason, the Chicago Cubs have acquired star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. The trade, which was finalized on Friday, sees the Cubs sending infielder Isaac Paredes, right-handed pitcher Hayden Wesneski, and third base prospect Cam Smith to Houston.
Tucker, who is entering his final year of team control, has been a standout player for the Astros. Over his career, he has slashed .289/.408/.585 with 112 home runs, 360 RBIs, and 307 runs scored. Despite an injury-shortened 2024 season, Tucker managed to hit .289 with 23 home runs in just 78 games. His impressive performance earned him multiple All-Star selections and a Silver Slugger award in 2023. The addition of Tucker is a significant boost for the Cubs, who have been looking to strengthen their lineup. His offensive prowess and defensive skills, including a Gold Glove win in 2022, make him a valuable asset for the team. Cubs fans are excited about the potential impact Tucker will have on the team's performance in the upcoming season. While Tucker's contract situation means he could be a one-year rental, the Cubs are hopeful that his presence will help them compete in the NL Central. The trade also opens up possibilities for further moves, as the Cubs continue to look for ways to improve their roster.  The New York Mets have announced a momentous occasion for the 2025 season: the retirement of David Wright's iconic No. 5 jersey and his induction into the Mets Hall of Fame. This prestigious ceremony is scheduled to take place on July 19 at Citi Field, just before the Mets face off against the Cincinnati Reds.
David Wright, who will celebrate his 42nd birthday on December 20, spent his entire 14-year Major League career with the Mets. Drafted 38th overall in 2001, Wright became a cornerstone of the franchise. Over his illustrious career, he compiled a remarkable batting line of .296/.376/.491 (133 OPS+), hitting 242 home runs, 390 doubles, stealing 196 bases, and collecting 1,777 hits. Wright's achievements on the field earned him seven All-Star selections, two Gold Gloves, and two Silver Slugger awards. He consistently performed at a high level, finishing in the top ten of the National League MVP voting four times. With a career WAR of 49.2, Wright ranks second in Mets history, trailing only the legendary Tom Seaver and just ahead of Dwight Gooden. Despite his numerous accolades, Wright's career was marred by a series of injuries. Persistent back, neck, and shoulder issues ultimately shortened his playing days and prevented him from potentially reaching the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Nonetheless, his resilience and contributions to the Mets have cemented his legacy in the hearts of fans. Wright's impact on the Mets franchise is undeniable. He holds team records for walks, hits, doubles, RBIs, and runs scored. His leadership and dedication both on and off the field have left an indelible mark on the organization. The July 19 ceremony at Citi Field will be a fitting tribute to Wright's stellar career and his lasting influence on the Mets. Fans and former teammates will gather to honor "Captain America" for his contributions to the game and the franchise. As the Mets prepare for this special event, they celebrate not just a great player, but a true ambassador of the sport.  Back in November, Guardians manager Stephen Vogt appeared to have finalized his coaching staff for the 2025 season. As part of that announcement, he revealed several promotions, including Craig Albernaz (bench coach to associate manager), Grant Fink (minor league hitting coordinator to major league hitting coach), Jason Esposito (run production coordinator to assistant hitting coach), and Kai Correa (major league field coordinator to major league field coordinator and director of defense, baserunning, and game strategy). New Additions to the Coaching Staff However, it turns out Vogt and the Guardians had more changes in store. Today, Cleveland announced three additional promotions to their coaching staff: 1. Brad Goldberg - Assistant Pitching Coach: Goldberg has earned a promotion for the second consecutive offseason. After beginning his coaching career at The Ohio State University, he joined the Guardians organization as a minor league coach in 2022 and became the major league bullpen coach for 2024. Now, he will work alongside pitching coach Carl Willis and assistant pitching coach Joe Torres. The team is evidently pleased with his contributions, given the bullpen's stellar performance in 2024. 2. Caleb Longshore - Bullpen Coach: Longshore steps into Goldberg's previous role as bullpen coach. Initially hired as a High-A pitching coach in 2022, he spent the past two seasons as the organizational pitching coordinator. With collegiate coaching experience at Middle Tennessee State University, Arkansas State University, and California Baptist University, Longshore brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new position. 3. Agustin Rivero - Major League Coach: After six seasons with the Guardians, Rivero has been promoted to major league coach. Starting as an interpreter in 2019, Rivero has gradually taken on more responsibilities, including assisting the coaching staff with daily functions and facilitating life skills growth for the club's Spanish-speaking players.  The New York Yankees have finalized a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, acquiring star closer Devin Williams in exchange for left-handed starter Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations. This trade comes as the Yankees look to bolster their bullpen after losing Clay Holmes to the Mets in free agency.
Williams, a two-time All-Star, is known for his "Airbender" pitch, which closely resembles a screwball but is thrown with the arm action of a change-up. Despite an injury-compromised 2024 season, Williams posted an impressive 1.25 ERA with 38 strikeouts in 21 2/3 innings. The Yankees are acquiring him with one year of team control remaining, making him a valuable addition to their pitching staff. In return, the Brewers will receive Nestor Cortes, who had a reliable season with the Yankees despite dealing with injuries. Cortes finished the 2024 season with a 9-10 record and a 3.77 ERA in 174 1/3 innings. Caleb Durbin, a promising second baseman, will also head to Milwaukee after an impressive showing in the Arizona Fall League.  The Philadelphia Phillies have been one of the most active teams this offseason, and it appears they were willing to go all-in for one of the game's top young stars.
According to MLB insider Jim Bowden, the Phillies made a significant offer to the Houston Astros for star outfielder Kyle Tucker. The proposed trade involved sending infielder Alec Bohm and outfielder Nick Castellanos to Houston in exchange for Tucker. However, the Astros declined the offer, citing concerns about Bohm's defensive abilities. While Phillies manager Rob Thomson believes Bohm has improved defensively, the Astros apparently disagreed with this assessment. With Juan Soto now off the board, Tucker has emerged as one of the most coveted players on the trade market. The Phillies, known for their aggressive approach to player acquisition, were clearly interested in adding Tucker to their lineup. As the offseason progresses, it remains to be seen if the Phillies will continue to pursue big-name trades. With a talented core already in place, they are looking to make additional moves to bolster their roster and contend for a World Series title.  The Chicago Cubs have unveiled their revamped coaching staff for the 2025 season, featuring a mix of experienced veterans and exciting newcomers.
New Faces in the Bullpen and Staff
Returning Coaches Manager Craig Counsell will be surrounded by familiar faces including:
Promotions from the Minors The Cubs also announced promotions within their strength and conditioning staff:
 The Washington Nationals have added depth to their pitching staff by signing left-handed pitcher Konnor Pilkington and right-handed pitcher Clay Helvey to minor league deals. Both pitchers will compete for a spot on the major league roster during spring training.
Pilkington, 27, has spent time with the Cleveland Guardians and Arizona Diamondbacks organizations. While he has shown flashes of potential, his overall performance has been inconsistent. He has struggled with control and has a career ERA of 3.75 in 60 innings pitched. Helvey, another experienced pitcher, will also have a chance to impress the Nationals' coaching staff. He has spent time in the major leagues with the Los Angeles Dodgers and has a career ERA of 5.23 in 117 innings pitched. Both pitchers will likely start the season in the minor leagues but could be called up to the major league roster if needed. The Nationals are hoping that Pilkington and Helvey can provide valuable depth and contribute to the team's success in 2024.  When trade rumors swirled around Garrett Crochet at the 2024 deadline, the young lefty knew a change might be on the horizon. He mentally prepared for the inevitable, but that didn't make the official call from White Sox GM Chris Getz any less bittersweet.
"There's definitely mixed emotions," Crochet said in a phone interview from his Nashville home. "The White Sox were the team that first took a chance on me, so there's a loyalty there. But baseball is a business, and I'm excited to be a Red Sox pitcher now." Crochet, 25, initially anticipated being part of a White Sox rebuild, but he understands the organization's faith in his potential. Drafted 11th overall in 2020 out of Tennessee, he debuted that same year with six scoreless innings across five appearances. A strong showing in the '21 bullpen earned him a starting role in '24 after battling back from Tommy John surgery. While his 2023 season was short-lived (12⅔ innings), it offered a glimpse of his talent. The White Sox, however, saw an opportunity to capitalize on his value, ultimately trading him to the Red Sox for a package of prospects. Crochet now embraces a fresh start in Boston. While emotions are complex, he's eager to showcase his abilities on a new stage. The Red Sox, on the other hand, acquire a high-ceiling arm with the potential to anchor their rotation for years to come. The trade marks a significant shift for both teams. For Crochet, it's a chance to prove himself in a new city and environment. For the Red Sox, it's a gamble on a rising star that could propel them back into contention. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Crochet to see how he adapts to his new home and thrives under the bright lights of Fenway Park. The Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros are reportedly in advanced discussions regarding a potential blockbuster trade that would send star outfielder Kyle Tucker to the North Side.
According to reports, the Cubs are offering a package centered around infielder Isaac Paredes and the 2024 first-round draft pick, Cam Smith. While no deal is imminent, the two sides are actively negotiating, and the trade could materialize in the coming days. Tucker, 27, has quickly established himself as one of baseball's elite young talents. In recent seasons, he has showcased exceptional power, speed, and on-base skills. His ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively makes him a highly coveted asset. However, with Tucker approaching free agency in 2025, the Astros may be hesitant to commit to a long-term deal. Trading him now could allow them to recoup significant value in the form of young talent and draft picks. For the Cubs, acquiring Tucker would be a major boost to their lineup. The team has been actively looking to upgrade its offense, and Tucker's addition would provide a much-needed power bat and elite defender. While the trade is far from finalized, the potential deal has generated significant buzz among baseball fans. Stay tuned for updates as this situation continues to develop.  In a press conference introducing Juan Soto, Mets owner Steve Cohen announced that the team is "still engaged" in discussions with first baseman Pete Alonso. This follows remarks from President of Baseball Operations David Stearns at the Winter Meetings expressing the team's desire to retain Alonso.
There has been limited public discussion about Alonso's free agency. Jon Heyman of the New York Post recently reported that Alonso might be interested in joining the Yankees if the Mets do not make a significant effort to keep him. While connections between Alonso and the Yankees have been suggested, reports indicate the Yankees are more focused on acquiring Christian Walker. Beyond New York, the market for Alonso has been largely speculative. Teams like the Nationals and Giants could benefit from Alonso's bat at first base, though there is no concrete evidence of their involvement. Alonso turned down a qualifying offer from the Mets last month. Any team, aside from the Mets, signing Alonso would have to forfeit draft picks and/or international signing bonus space. The Mets, in contrast, would lose the right to a compensatory pick, which would come after the fourth round—a minimal penalty for losing a player of Alonso's caliber.  Over the weekend, Alex Speier of The Boston Globe reported that the Seattle Mariners are open to trading starting pitcher Luis Castillo. Since then, trade discussions have intensified, especially after Max Fried signed an eight-year deal with the Yankees on Tuesday.
Castillo, who turned 32 today, appears to be the only member of the Mariners' rotation who might be available for trade. President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto has consistently dismissed the idea of trading his young starters—Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Bryan Woo, and Bryce Miller. The Mariners reportedly turned down the Red Sox's offer of Triston Casas for one of their young pitchers. Jon Morosi of MLB Network mentioned that the Red Sox and Mariners are still in talks about Seattle's starting pitching. However, Boston is unlikely to trade Casas for Castillo. According to Speier, there hasn't been any progress on a deal involving these two players.  The Atlanta Braves have bolstered their pitching depth by signing right-hander Wander Suero to a minor league contract, as reported by Matt Eddy of Baseball America. Suero, a client of Rep 1 Baseball, is expected to receive an invitation to major league spring training, giving him a chance to compete for a spot on the Braves' roster.
Suero, 33, joined the Astros on a minor league deal last winter and was briefly promoted to their major league roster in April. However, after just one appearance, he was outrighted back to Triple-A. He spent the majority of the 2023 season with the Sugar Land Space Cowboys, delivering a strong performance. Over 67 2/3 innings, Suero posted a 2.66 ERA, benefiting from a .238 batting average on balls in play and an 85.8% strand rate. His 24.8% strikeout rate was also a notable highlight of his season. Suero has a solid background as an effective major league reliever, though his prime years are a bit behind him. From 2018 to 2020, he pitched 142 2/3 innings for the Washington Nationals, recording a 4.10 ERA, a 26.1% strikeout rate, and an 8.5% walk rate. During this period, Suero earned one save and 27 holds, showcasing his capability in high-leverage situations. However, his performance dipped significantly in 2021, with his ERA ballooning to 6.33, leading to his non-tendering after that season. By adding Suero to their minor league system, the Braves are giving themselves a low-risk, potentially high-reward option. If Suero can recapture his earlier form, he could become a valuable piece in Atlanta's bullpen. His experience and past success in the majors provide a solid foundation for a comeback, and his recent Triple-A performance suggests he still has the ability to contribute effectively.  The Texas Rangers have designated right-hander Roansy Contreras for assignment, a move made necessary to open a 40-man roster spot after finalizing free agent deals with reliever Jacob Webb and starter Nathan Eovaldi.
Contreras' time with the Rangers was short-lived, spanning only six weeks. The Rangers picked him up off waivers from the Angels at the onset of the offseason. Given his recent history and the crowded nature of the Rangers' roster, it was always likely that he would not remain with the team for long. The 25-year-old pitcher is now expected to be either traded or, more likely, placed back on waivers in the coming days. Once considered one of the top pitching prospects in baseball, Contreras began his professional journey in the New York Yankees' farm system. He was a significant component of the trade package that the Yankees sent to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for Jameson Taillon. Contreras made a solid debut with the Pirates in 2022, posting a 3.79 ERA over 95 innings, and initially appeared to be a promising long-term option for their rotation. However, his performance has significantly declined over the past two seasons, leading to his recent movements between teams.  The San Francisco Giants have re-signed right-handed pitchers Ethan Small and Kai-Wei Teng to minor league contracts. This move comes after both players were dropped from the 40-man roster at the non-tender deadline last month, allowing the Giants to retain them without a 40-man roster spot.
Ethan Small, a former first-round pick by the Milwaukee Brewers, joined the Giants in a DFA trade in February. The 27-year-old left-hander spent most of the season on the injured list and did not make any appearances in the major leagues with San Francisco. He was limited to 13 innings in the minors across three levels. Small has a brief major league résumé, with four MLB appearances for the Brewers between 2022 and 2023. His last healthy minor league season saw him pitch to a 3.18 ERA over 51 innings at the Triple-A level two years ago. Kai-Wei Teng, 26, made his major league debut this year, appearing in four games and allowing 12 runs over 11 innings. The Taiwanese right-hander also had a challenging season in Triple-A, where he allowed nearly a run per inning over 75 1/3 frames. Despite strong strikeout and ground-ball numbers in the lower minors, Teng has struggled with his command throughout his career, which has impacted his performance at higher levels. By re-signing Small and Teng to minor league deals, the Giants aim to keep their potential and depth within the organization while not committing valuable 40-man roster spots. This strategy allows the team to monitor their progress and provide opportunities for them to contribute without the pressure of immediate major league expectations.  The New York Mets have made a historic addition to their roster, signing outfielder Juan Soto to the largest contract in MLB history. This move is seen as a game-changer for the franchise, underlining their commitment to building a dynasty.
When asked about his decision to join the Mets, Soto praised the organization for its ambition and recent success. "The Mets are a great organization, and what they have done in the past couple of years – showing all the ability to keep winning, to keep growing a team, to try to grow a dynasty – is one of the most important things," Soto said. He added that the future potential of the team played a significant role in his decision. The magnitude of Soto's contract, which is the largest in MLB history, marks a monumental day for the Mets. Team owner Steve Cohen highlighted the significance of the signing, stating, "It’s obviously a huge move. It just puts an accent on what we’re trying to do. It accelerates our goal of winning championships." Cohen also emphasized his long-term vision for the franchise. "My goal was to change how the Mets were viewed. And I think we’re really on the path of changing that. We’re never gonna stop. We’re always in a constant state of improvement." Soto joins the Mets after a career year with the Yankees, where he hit .288 with 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and a .989 OPS during the regular season. He also excelled in the playoffs, posting a 1.101 OPS in 14 games as the Yankees reached the World Series. The Mets, who made their own deep playoff run before falling to the Dodgers in the NL Championship Series, are poised for significant turnover with 14 players reaching free agency. However, Soto is confident in the foundation that Cohen and President of Baseball Operations David Stearns have in place. "What they showed me, and how the organization runs things, and how they’re gonna manage things, and how they look at their future – that was one of the things that opened my eyes a little bit more," Soto said. Soto believes that the Mets have the best chances to win now and in the future. "At the end of the day, we looked at everything ... we looked at what other teams wanted to do and what everybody wants to do for the next 15 years, and I think we have the best chances to win here," he concluded.  The Los Angeles Angels are actively seeking to bolster their roster with an everyday addition at third base. According to Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register, the Angels have been exploring the asking prices for three notable players: Nolan Arenado from the Cardinals, Alec Bohm from the Phillies, and Eugenio Suarez from the Diamondbacks.
Among the players the Angels are considering, Nolan Arenado stands out. It's noteworthy that Arenado would even consider a trade to the Angels, as he reportedly prefers to join a team with a clear path to contention. Arenado, an eight-time All-Star, has been a cornerstone for the Cardinals and is known for his elite defense and powerful bat. His agent, Joel Wolfe, emphasized Arenado's desire to be part of a team that is "all-in" on winning. Alec Bohm represents a younger option for the Angels. The Phillies' third baseman has shown promise with his bat and glove, making him an intriguing target for Los Angeles. At just 27, Bohm's potential for growth could align well with the Angels' long-term goals, providing stability at the hot corner for years to come. Eugenio Suarez offers a powerful option for the Angels. Known for his ability to hit home runs, Suarez could add a significant offensive boost to the lineup. His experience and track record make him a valuable asset, especially if the Angels are looking to add immediate firepower to their roster. As the offseason continues, the Angels are clearly exploring all avenues to enhance their lineup and make a push for contention. Whether they land Arenado, Bohm, Suarez, or another third baseman, it's evident that the Halos are committed to making impactful moves. Stay tuned for further updates as the Angels' front office navigates the trade market and continues their pursuit of a championship-caliber roster.  The Chicago White Sox have announced the signing of right-handed reliever Dan Altavilla to a minor league contract. The MAS+ Agency client will join the team in spring training as a non-roster invitee.
Altavilla, 32, has experienced a tumultuous career in the big leagues due to frequent injuries. Since making his MLB debut with the Seattle Mariners in 2016, he has faced a series of setbacks, including shoulder inflammation, two UCL sprains (the latter leading to Tommy John surgery), a forearm strain, and a significant oblique strain that landed him on the 60-day injured list last season. During his first three seasons with the Mariners from 2016-18, Altavilla pitched a total of 79 2/3 innings, posting a commendable 3.28 ERA, a 25.3% strikeout rate, and a 10.7% walk rate. However, his time on the mound has been drastically reduced since then. Over the past few years, Altavilla has managed just 40 big league innings with a combined ERA of 6.53. His minor league appearances have also been limited, with 84 1/3 innings pitched, totaling 120 1/3 frames over the past six years. Despite his injury history, Altavilla’s early career performance shows promise. The White Sox are hopeful that he can return to form and provide valuable depth to their bullpen. As he prepares for spring training, Altavilla will aim to prove his resilience and earn a spot on the roster.  Right-hander Kirby Yates is garnering significant attention in this year's free agency, with the Cubs already showing interest. Recently, Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 added the Tigers to the list of potential suitors. At 38 years old in March, Yates has proven himself to be one of the better relievers available on the market.
Yates just completed an outstanding season with the Rangers, pitching 61 2/3 innings and allowing a mere 1.17 earned runs per nine innings. His impressive performance was somewhat bolstered by a .168 batting average on balls in play and an 88.1% strand rate—both indicators of some fortunate circumstances. Nevertheless, his 2.50 FIP and 2.85 SIERA adjusted numbers suggest that Yates would have fared well even with average luck. Despite a slightly high 11.1% walk rate, Yates struck out 35.9% of batters faced and maintained a 45.5% ground ball rate. Taking over the closer's role in Texas, he secured 33 saves throughout the season. Yates' ability to secure a lucrative contract will be constrained by his age and injury history. From 2020 to 2022, Yates barely pitched, primarily due to undergoing his second Tommy John surgery. He returned in 2023 with a solid, though not dominant, performance, recording a 3.28 ERA with a 31.5% strikeout rate, 14.6% walk rate, and a 36.4% ground ball rate.  The Boston Red Sox have made a significant splash at the Winter Meetings, reshaping their rotation for the upcoming 2025 season. The biggest move was acquiring Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for four top prospects. This trade is seen as a game-changer for the Red Sox, who have been looking to bolster their pitching staff.
Here's how the Red Sox rotation looks now: 1. Garrett Crochet - The newly acquired left-handed ace brings a ton of swing-and-miss stuff and is expected to be the top-of-the-rotation starter. 2. Tanner Houck - A reliable starter who has shown consistency and strong performances over the past seasons. 3. Brayan Bello - Another young arm with potential, Bello has been impressive in his outings. 4. Lucas Giolito - Returning from injury, Giolito is expected to regain his form and contribute significantly to the rotation. 5. Kutter Crawford - Known for his versatility, Crawford can be a valuable asset in the rotation or the bullpen. The Red Sox are not done yet. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has hinted at the possibility of making more moves to further strengthen the rotation. Names like Corbin Burnes and Walker Buehler have been mentioned as potential targets. Additionally, the team is looking to add depth with optionable arms like Quinn Priester, Richard Fitts, and Hunter Dobbins.  It appears that Corbin Burnes isn't the only former Orioles All-Star on the radar of the Boston Red Sox. According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, Boston has had discussions with free agent starter John Means. Means' once-promising career has been hampered by injuries over the past three years, most recently undergoing his second Tommy John procedure this past May, sidelining him for most of the 2025 season.
Drafted in the 11th round in 2014, John Means was never considered a top prospect. Despite this, he consistently performed well in the minor leagues, earning a spot on Baltimore’s Opening Day roster in 2019. After three strong bullpen appearances, he made his first big league start in mid-April and thrived in the rotation. Means was named an All-Star that summer and finished second in AL Rookie of the Year voting that fall. From 2019 to 2021, Means made 67 appearances (63 starts) with a 3.73 ERA and a 4.48 SIERA in 345 1/3 innings. While not dominant, as he struggled to miss bats or induce groundballs consistently, his excellent control (walking just 5.1% of batters) and ability to average over 5 innings per start made him a reliable pitcher. For a team like the Orioles, who were at the bottom of the standings, Means' performance was invaluable. As the Red Sox consider bolstering their pitching roster, Means could offer significant value if he can return to his pre-injury form. While the road to recovery is long, and his return might not be immediate, his past performance suggests he could be a solid addition to Boston’s rotation in the future.  The trial of Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, who faces charges of sexual abuse, sexual exploitation of a minor, and human trafficking, has been postponed until June 2, 2025. This decision came after a judge in the Dominican Republic ruled that key witnesses were not located in time for the originally scheduled December 12 date.
Witnesses and Court Proceedings Out of the 36 witnesses scheduled to testify, only three were present in the courtroom in Puerto Plata on Thursday. Dominican judge Yacaira Veras postponed the hearing at the request of prosecutors. Franco's lawyers argued against the postponement, citing his need to report to spring training in mid-February. However, the judge maintained that Franco must adhere to the trial schedule, continue his conditional release from detainment, and not leave the country. Background and Charges Franco, 23, was placed on indefinite administrative leave from Major League Baseball on August 22, 2023. He was added to MLB's restricted list in July 2024 after prosecutors in the Dominican Republic accused him of having a sexual relationship with a then-14-year-old girl. Documents presented to the judge in July, viewed by The Associated Press, alleged that Franco, through his mother Yudelka Aybar, transferred 1 million pesos (about $17,000) to the mother of the minor on January 5, 2023, to consent to the abuse. The mother of the minor has been charged with money laundering and is under house arrest. Legal and Career Implications The postponement of the trial adds another layer of uncertainty to Franco's legal and professional future. As the trial date approaches, the baseball community and fans will be closely watching the developments in this high-profile case.  After finishing with a 91-71 record and making it to the MLB playoffs for the second straight season, the Baltimore Orioles are planning significant changes to their home stadium, Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
Remodeling "The Great Wall of Baltimore" The left field fence, known as "The Great Wall of Baltimore," is set for its second remodel in recent years. The renovations will lower the wall height from 13 feet to eight feet and move the fences closer by approximately 14 feet in the left field area and about 26 feet towards left-center field and the bullpens. Humorous Insights from the 2024 MLB Winter Meetings At the 2024 MLB Winter Meetings, Orioles general manager Mike Elias was asked why the team decided to move the wall again. His answer was both hilarious and revealing: "Because I wanted to sign Tyler O'Neill and Gary Sanchez!" The response caused the MLB Network desk to burst into laughter. O'Neill, who recently signed a three-year, $49.5 million contract with Baltimore, hit 31 home runs for the Boston Red Sox in 2024. Sanchez, known for his top home run-hitting seasons with the Yankees and their "short porch" in the Bronx, signed a one-year deal with the Orioles. Strategic Benefits While Elias's answer was delivered with humor, it underscores a strategic move to boost the team's offensive capabilities. The remodel aims to create a more hitter-friendly environment, potentially increasing home run production and enhancing the Orioles' lineup.  Right-hander Walker Buehler, who delivered the final out of the World Series, is now seeking a multi-year contract with opt-out clauses, as reported by ESPN. This type of contract mirrors the deals Cody Bellinger and Jordan Montgomery secured last offseason. The San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, and Detroit Tigers have all expressed interest in Buehler.
Buehler's Performance and Injury Concerns At 30, Buehler had an impressive postseason run, but his regular season performance left much to be desired, with a 5.38 ERA over 75 ⅓ innings. His career has been marred by injuries, including two Tommy John surgeries. While his stuff showed improvement in October, the overall decline during the regular season and his injury history are likely to keep his market price in check. Potential Suitors and Contract Structure Despite these concerns, Buehler remains a coveted asset due to his experience and potential upside. Teams are likely interested in a short-term deal that could include opt-out clauses, providing Buehler with flexibility while mitigating long-term risk for the signing team. Conclusion As the offseason progresses, Walker Buehler’s next destination will be a key storyline to watch. With several teams in the mix, the veteran pitcher’s market will be an interesting development, especially considering his previous postseason heroics and recent injury history.  Late Tuesday night, Buster Posey, the new President of Baseball Operations (POBO) for the San Francisco Giants, met with Corbin Burnes, the 2021 NL Cy Young winner. According to reports from the New York Post, the Giants are making a strong push to bring Burnes to San Francisco. The Toronto Blue Jays are also heavily involved in the pursuit.
With Max Fried and Blake Snell already signed, Burnes stands out as the top available free-agent starter. The Giants have already made a significant move this offseason by signing Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million deal. They are also reportedly interested in Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker, showing their ambition to strengthen the team. Adding Burnes would give the Giants a second ace to pair with Logan Webb, providing much-needed reliability in their starting rotation. The Giants have relied heavily on bullpen games and openers in recent years, and Burnes could be the solution to solidify their pitching staff |