 San Francisco Giants legend and long-time shortstop Brandon Crawford has officially announced his retirement. In a heartfelt post on his personal Instagram account, Crawford expressed his gratitude and excitement for the next chapter of his life. The Giants have also announced that they will honor Crawford at their game on April 26, when they host the Texas Rangers, managed by Crawford's former skipper, Bruce Bochy.
Reflecting on a Dream Come True "Growing up in the Bay Area and going to games at Candlestick, I always dreamed of playing for the San Francisco Giants," Crawford shared. "Being drafted by my hometown team and spending most of my career with them far surpassed any dream I had as a kid. I definitely pretended to win a World Series in my backyard – but winning two? That was beyond my wildest dreams." He also expressed his gratitude to the Giants organization, the Cardinals, his family, coaches, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported him throughout his career. A Storied Career Crawford's journey is the epitome of a childhood dream realized. Drafted by the Giants in the fourth round out of UCLA in 2008, he witnessed the team win the World Series in 2010, although he was still in the minor leagues at the time. Crawford made his major league debut in May 2011, making an immediate impact with a grand slam in his first game. Despite a challenging rookie season, where he hit .204/.288/.296 in 66 games, Crawford's career continued to flourish. Legacy and Impact Crawford's dedication and performance on the field have cemented his status as a Giants legend. From his debut grand slam to his two World Series titles with the team, Crawford's contributions to the Giants will be remembered by fans and teammates alike. As the Giants prepare to celebrate Crawford's remarkable career, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans
0 Comments
 The Toronto Blue Jays have reached an agreement on a minor league contract with infielder Michael Stefanic. The news was shared by Stefanic's agent, Nate Heisler of Klutch Sports, on X (formerly Twitter), while Stefanic himself expressed gratitude to the Angels and their fans on Instagram, along with his excitement for this new opportunity with Toronto.
Stefanic's Career Background Stefanic, who will turn 29 in February, began his professional career as an undrafted free agent in 2018 when he signed with the Los Angeles Angels. Despite a clear lack of power, he quickly garnered attention in the minors due to his exceptional plate discipline and versatility in playing multiple positions. In 2021, he demonstrated his potential by posting a .336/.408/.493 line with 17 home runs, significantly higher than his previous totals. This performance earned him a 132 wRC+, indicating he was 32% better than the league average. Ranked as the #22 prospect in the Angels’ system by Baseball America going into 2022, Stefanic made his Major League debut that year. Over the past three seasons, he accumulated 264 plate appearances in the majors, with an 8.7% walk rate and a 15.2% strikeout rate. However, his lack of home runs resulted in a modest slash line of .232/.317/.275 and a 72 wRC+. Despite limited major league success, Stefanic continued to excel in the minors, achieving a combined line of .349/.444/.456 and a 133 wRC+ over the past three years. New Opportunity with the Blue Jays After exhausting his final option year in 2024, Stefanic was passed through waivers and outrighted by the Angels last month. The Blue Jays have now offered him a non-roster invitation to spring training. With experience playing every position on the diamond except for center field and catcher, Stefanic has the potential to secure a utility or bench role with Toronto. This new chapter with the Blue Jays presents a promising opportunity for Stefanic to leverage his versatility and continue his professional growth.  The Los Angeles Angels have been the most aggressive team in free agency this offseason, continuing their bold approach with their first major signing, left-handed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. The deal, officially announced on Wednesday, is a three-year, $63 million contract, making it the largest deal since Perry Minasian became the general manager in 2020.
Strengthening the Rotation This acquisition represents a significant upgrade to the Angels' rotation, following their one-year, $2.5 million signing of right-hander Kyle Hendricks. Kikuchi immediately steps in as the ace of the staff, providing a much-needed boost after the team's disappointing 99-loss season in 2024. Kikuchi's Recent Performance Kikuchi, 33, is coming off one of the best stretches of his Major League career, which included a midseason trade to the Houston Astros. He began his professional career with eight seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball before joining the Seattle Mariners for his first three MLB seasons. He then signed a three-year, $36 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the 2022 season. Between his time in Seattle and Toronto, Kikuchi posted a 4.72 ERA with a 1.38 WHIP. Midseason Turnaround Kikuchi saw remarkable improvement after his trade to the Astros on July 29. In 10 starts down the stretch, he recorded a 2.70 ERA with a 0.93 WHIP and 76 strikeouts in 60 innings. One significant change was his increased reliance on his slider, which he threw 38.9% of the time by September, compared to 36.6% four-seam fastballs. This adjustment greatly enhanced the effectiveness of both pitches. Looking Ahead The signing of Kikuchi demonstrates the Angels' commitment to enhancing their roster and competing in the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, fans can look forward to seeing how these moves translate into performance on the field.  The Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves are among the teams expressing interest in free agent right-hander Nathan Eovaldi, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi.
Eovaldi's Fit and Performance Eovaldi, who will turn 35 in February, is a viable option for many teams despite his age and injury history. He is unlikely to secure a long-term contract due to his medical background, which includes two Tommy John surgeries. However, Eovaldi's consistent performance in recent years keeps him in high demand. MLB Trade Rumors has projected him to receive a $44 million guarantee on a two-year deal, with the possibility of a third year. Over the past five years, Eovaldi has made 115 starts, posting a 3.75 ERA. His annual ERA has never exceeded 3.87 during this period. His strikeout rates have ranged from 22.4% to 26.1%, his walk rates from 3.5% to 8.1%, and his ground ball rates from 42% to 51%. Overall, he has pitched 654 2/3 innings with a 24% strikeout rate, a 5.6% walk rate, and a 46.9% ground ball rate. Such consistent performance would enhance any team's rotation. Suitors and Market Competition Many teams, including the Texas Rangers, have shown interest in bringing Eovaldi on board. He has also been linked to the Braves, the Boston Red Sox, and now the Orioles. Given his performance and relatively affordable contract, it's likely that several other clubs are also eyeing Eovaldi, even if they haven't been publicly reported. Baltimore's Rotation Needs For the Orioles, Eovaldi represents a logical fit due to their rotation needs. With their 2024 ace Corbin Burnes now a free agent and injuries sidelining Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells for part of the 2025 season, the Orioles need to bolster their starting pitching. Trade deadline acquisition Trevor Rogers struggled and was demoted, leaving the rotation core consisting of Zach Eflin, Grayson Rodriguez, and Dean Kremer. Albert Suárez, despite a solid year in a swing role, may be better suited as a depth option. Rookie pitchers Chayce McDermott and Cade Povich made their debuts in 2024 but have yet to establish themselves fully. Adding Eovaldi could provide the Orioles with the stability and experience they need to strengthen their rotation and make a playoff push.  Jack Flaherty, born and raised in Southern California and a lifelong Dodgers fan, has always expressed a strong desire to remain with the team. During the Dodgers' 2024 World Series championship parade, he even stated that he never wants to leave Los Angeles.
However, the recent five-year deal between the Dodgers and Blake Snell, as reported by sources on Tuesday night, has cast doubt on Flaherty's future with the team. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi suggested on Wednesday that the addition of Snell likely means Flaherty "won't be back" with the Dodgers in 2025. Potential Landing Spots for Flaherty With his future in Los Angeles uncertain, Flaherty is exploring other options. According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Baltimore Orioles could be a potential destination for Flaherty. The Yankees, who were interested in acquiring him at the 2024 Trade Deadline, remain a possibility, although they were unable to reach a deal with the Tigers before Detroit traded Flaherty to the Dodgers. The Bronx Bombers, along with the Padres and Angels, were also mentioned by Morosi as potential landing spots for Flaherty. However, this speculation came before the Dodgers signed Snell and before the Angels agreed to terms with Yusei Kikuchi. As Flaherty navigates his next steps, his future in Major League Baseball remains a topic of great interest. Whether he ends up with the Orioles, Yankees, or another team, his next move will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.  The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are not only two of the top contenders in the race to sign Juan Soto, but they may also find themselves in a bidding war for another big-name free agent this offseason.
Interest in Blake Snell Both the Yankees and Red Sox were interested in acquiring left-handed starter Blake Snell. However, Snell reached a five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, leaving the two rivals to explore other options. Focus on Max Fried According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Yankees and Red Sox are now focusing their attention on Max Fried, the top remaining left-handed starter on the free-agent market. Fried has garnered significant interest, particularly after Snell's departure from the market. Competition for Fried The competition for Fried is fierce. In addition to the Yankees and Red Sox, other teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays—both AL East rivals—are also in the mix. Beyond these teams, many clubs are in need of starting pitching, making the market for Fried highly competitive. As the offseason progresses, the Yankees and Red Sox will continue their pursuit of key players to bolster their rosters. The race to sign Fried will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, adding another layer of intrigue to the storied rivalry between these two franchises.  Losing Blake Snell is undoubtedly a tough blow for the San Francisco Giants, but losing him to their longtime rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, adds salt to the wound. With Snell's departure, the Giants are left with a significant void in their pitching rotation that they must fill. Fortunately, several high-quality starting pitchers remain on the free-agent market, and the Giants are eyeing the top of that list.
Giants' Interest in Corbin Burnes According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Giants have shown "significant interest" in Corbin Burnes. However, securing Burnes will require more than the reported five-year, $182 million contract that Snell received. Burnes, being younger and having a more consistent track record of durability, is expected to command a deal worth over $200 million. "Given Snell’s contract – which will ultimately be worth between $160-165 million in present-day value taking the deferrals into account – there’s no reason to think that Burnes’ deal won’t be worth more than $200 million," Feinsand wrote. Competition for Burnes The 30-year-old Burnes has attracted interest from several clubs. The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal recently reported that Burnes had a meeting with the Boston Red Sox. The Baltimore Orioles have also been linked to Burnes, though they may look to address their starting rotation needs through trades. One NL executive told Feinsand that the Orioles are "the team to watch" for White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet. As the offseason progresses, the Giants will need to act quickly and decisively to fill the gap left by Snell. With significant interest in Burnes and other top pitchers, they are poised to make a strong move to bolster their rotation for the upcoming season.  The Boston Red Sox are among the five teams that have made a contract offer to star free agent Juan Soto, as reported by MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi. While the specifics of the offer remain undisclosed, it is clear that Boston is serious in its pursuit of the offseason's top free agent.
Boston's Bold Move Writing for the New York Post, Mark W. Sanchez and MLB Network insider Jon Heyman indicated that the Red Sox are increasingly seen as a legitimate contender in the race to sign the generational slugger. Boston is stepping up efforts to lure Soto away from their historic AL East rival, making a significant statement about their intentions for the upcoming season. Free Agent Interests In addition to Soto, the Red Sox have been linked to several other top free agents early in the offseason. This includes starting pitchers Corbin Burnes and Max Fried, infielder Willy Adames, and outfielder Teoscar Hernández. According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Red Sox were also in contention for Blake Snell before he agreed to a five-year deal with the Dodgers. With Snell off the market, Boston may now focus its attention on Fried to bolster their rotation. Financial Flexibility According to a report from the Boston Globe, the Red Sox are looking to add a top-tier starter even if they manage to sign Soto. However, signing Soto would reduce their financial flexibility. CEO/president Sam Kennedy has stated that the Red Sox are open to exceeding the first Competitive Balance Tax threshold of $241 million to achieve their goals. Currently, Cot's Baseball Contracts estimates the Red Sox's CBT number at approximately $164 million, leaving $77 million before reaching the tax threshold. Potential Trade Options If the Red Sox are priced out of the market for elite free-agent pitchers, they may pursue trades to fulfill their need for an ace. Jon Paul Morosi suggests that Boston could be a team to watch in the trade market for White Sox lefty Garrett Crochet. The Red Sox's depth of highly touted position-player prospects could make them an attractive trade partner for the White Sox. The New York Mets announced on Wednesday the signing of left-handed reliever Genesis Cabrera to a minor league contract, with an invitation to major league spring training.
Career Overview Cabrera, 28, has spent his MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals and Toronto Blue Jays. In 2024, he posted a 3.59 ERA over 62 2/3 innings with the Blue Jays, despite a below-average strikeout rate of 18.5% and a high walk rate of 10.7%. Command has been a consistent challenge for Cabrera, who has never posted a walk rate below 10% in any season. Performance and Potential Despite his control issues, Cabrera has remained an effective pitcher, boasting a career ERA of 3.89 across 275 2/3 innings in the majors. He has frequently pitched in high-leverage situations, accumulating 67 holds and five saves. In 2024, Cabrera's fastball velocity dipped to a career-low average of 95.9 mph, but his sinker slightly improved to an average of 96 mph. However, his strikeout rate last year was the second-lowest of his career, signaling some potential red flags. Opportunity with the Mets The Mets see potential in Cabrera's track record and velocity, despite his inconsistent command and recent performance issues. By bringing him to camp as a non-roster invitee, they have no risk and stand to gain a valuable bullpen piece if he performs well. Currently, Danny Young is the only left-handed reliever on the Mets' 40-man roster, so adding Cabrera provides much-needed depth and competition as the offseason progresses.  Two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell, one of the top free-agent pitchers this offseason, has agreed to a five-year, $182 million contract with the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, as reported by MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. While the team has yet to confirm the news, Snell posted a picture of himself in a Dodgers uniform on his Instagram account, hinting at the move.
Free Agency Journey Snell, who was a free agent for the second consecutive offseason, opted out of the final year of his two-year, $62 million contract with the San Francisco Giants. His first foray into free agency came after leading the MLB with a 2.25 ERA and recording 234 strikeouts over 180 innings with the San Diego Padres in 2023. This performance earned him his second career Cy Young Award, making him the seventh pitcher to win the award in both leagues. Early Struggles and Impressive Comeback After lingering on the free-agent market throughout the winter and into Spring Training, Snell signed with the Giants shortly before Opening Day in March. Without a regular preseason buildup, he struggled early in the season, posting a 9.51 ERA over his first six starts and landing on the injured list twice due to a left adductor strain and a left groin strain. Upon returning from his second IL stint, Snell found his Cy Young form once again. He delivered an impressive stretch, posting a 1.23 ERA with 114 strikeouts, 30 walks, and a .123 opponents’ batting average over 80 1/3 innings in his final 14 starts. His standout performance included an 11-strikeout no-hitter against the Reds on August 2, marking the first complete game of his career. Career Highlights and Challenges Inconsistency and durability have been challenges throughout Snell's career, partly due to his high walk rate (lifetime 4.1 BB/9). However, when at his best, Snell has proven to be one of the toughest pitchers in the game. Selected by the Tampa Bay Rays with the 52nd overall pick in the 2011 MLB Draft, Snell debuted in the majors in 2016 with a 3.54 ERA over 19 starts. He won his first Cy Young Award in 2018 with a 21-5 record, an American League-leading 1.89 ERA, and 221 strikeouts over 180 2/3 innings. Traded to the Padres in December 2020, Snell initially struggled but improved in 2022, culminating in his second Cy Young Award in 2023. Over his nine-season career, Snell has a 3.19 ERA and an 11.2 K/9, the all-time record among pitchers with at least 1,000 innings. Future with the DodgersAs Snell joins the Dodgers, he aims to bring his dominant pitching to a team fresh off a World Series victory. With his proven track record and renewed form, Snell is poised to be a key player in Los Angeles' rotation.  The Boston Red Sox are ramping up their pursuit of Juan Soto, the top free agent on the market, according to a report from New York Post MLB insiders Jon Heyman and Mark W. Sanchez. The franchise is highlighting Soto's potential fit with the team and its rich history of star players from the Dominican Republic, such as David Ortiz, Pedro Martinez, and Rafael Devers. Additionally, the Red Sox have a storied legacy of left-handed hitters like Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and Ortiz himself, who achieved significant success at Fenway Park.
Despite the Red Sox’s recent trend of letting star players leave to cut costs, they are emerging as a surprising contender for Soto. "Such an expenditure from the Red Sox would be stunning for a franchise that traded away Mookie Betts rather than signing him long term; that has cut payroll significantly beginning in 2020 and spent around $120 million less last season than the Yankees; and, relatedly, that has reached the postseason in one of the past six seasons, a span that has included three last-place finishes in the AL East," Heyman and Sanchez wrote. "Perhaps the Red Sox and controlling owner John Henry have decided to awaken at a busy moment." Landing Soto would be a significant coup for the Red Sox, especially if it means outmaneuvering rivals like the New York Yankees. The race for Soto's signature is highly competitive, with other major teams such as the Yankees, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers also showing strong interest. As the offseason heats up, all eyes will be on whether the Red Sox can secure one of baseball’s brightest stars to bolster their roster. The Milwaukee Brewers have signed outfielder Jared Oliva and right-handed pitcher Jon Duplantier to minor league contracts, as reported by Adam McCalvy ofMLB.com.Both players will receive non-roster invitations to the big league camp.
Jared Oliva Jared Oliva, who turns 29 tomorrow, previously had a brief stint in the majors with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He appeared in 26 games for the Pirates between 2020 and 2021, posting a .179/.220/.214 batting line in limited action. In 2023, Oliva played in Triple-A with the Los Angeles Angels, struggling to a .261/.348/.423 slash line in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League. This past season, after signing a minor league deal with the Seattle Mariners, Oliva dropped to Double-A, where he found more success. In the Texas League, Oliva recorded a strong .294/.378/.463 slash line and went 37-for-40 in stolen base attempts. Despite being older than the average Double-A player, his performance earned him a camp invite from the Brewers. Oliva's versatility allows him to play all three outfield positions, and he may start next season with Triple-A Nashville. Jon Duplantier Jon Duplantier has not played in the majors since 2021. Once a highly regarded prospect in the Arizona Diamondbacks system, Duplantier has struggled to find success at the major league level, posting a 6.70 ERA over 49 2/3 innings. During the 2024 season, Duplantier split his time between the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers organizations, as well as making four starts in the independent American Association. He made 23 appearances in the upper minors, starting seven of those games. Over 55 2/3 innings, he posted a 4.20 ERA with a notable 27.4% strikeout rate but also a high 16.1% walk rate. With these additions, the Brewers are bolstering their depth for the upcoming season and providing opportunities for Oliva and Duplantier to prove themselves and potentially earn a spot on the major league roster.  The Seattle Mariners have officially announced their coaching staff for the 2025 season. Most of the appointments are familiar faces from the previous year, but a few new names and role changes stand out.
Key Promotions and Changes
Departures and New Roles
Adam Jude of the Seattle Times relayed these changes prior to the official announcement, highlighting the internal shuffle within the organization. With these adjustments, the Mariners hope to build on their staff's experience and bring new energy into the 2025 season.  The San Francisco Giants have reached an agreement on a minor league contract with catcher Max Stassi, as initially reported by Aram Leighton of Just Baseball and subsequently confirmed on Stassi'sMLB.comtransaction log. The deal is expected to include a non-roster invitation to big league camp.
Stassi, who hasn't played in the majors since 2022, began the 2023 season on the injured list due to a left hip issue. His situation became more complicated when he was transferred to the restricted list to address a family matter. The Stassi family announced that their son was born prematurely and required extensive care in the NICU. The past offseason saw Stassi traded twice—first from the Los Angeles Angels to the Atlanta Braves, and then to the Chicago White Sox in a series of salary-driven transactions. The White Sox planned to use him as their backup catcher, but he reaggravated his hip injury, leading to season-ending surgery in June. The White Sox ultimately opted for a $500,000 buyout instead of a $7.5 million option, ending Stassi's tenure with the team without him playing a single game. Stassi's last fully healthy season in 2022 was disappointing, as he posted a .180/.267/.303 slash line over 375 plate appearances. This was a stark contrast to his impressive performance in 2020-21, when he hit .250/.333/.452 and was considered an above-average defensive catcher. His strong showing during those years earned him a $17.5 million extension from the Angels in Spring Training 2022, but his performance declined soon after. Now aiming for a fresh start with the Giants, Stassi will look to prove he can return to his form from a few years ago and contribute to the team's catching depth.  Willy Adames, a seasoned shortstop with a seven-year MLB career, has established himself as a plus defender over the past three years, according to outs above average. However, the 29-year-old is now open to playing third base "for the right deal and the right team," as reported by MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi.
Teams Expressing Interest This newfound flexibility has garnered interest from at least three teams: the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, and Boston Red Sox. Astros: According to Morosi, the Astros are considering Adames as a potential third baseman. This move would address a significant need for Houston if they are unable to re-sign Alex Bregman. Phillies: Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports that the Phillies' interest in Adames hinges on whether they can trade third baseman Alec Bohm as part of a package deal for White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet. Should such a trade materialize, the Phillies are expected to aggressively pursue either Adames or Bregman. Red Sox: Nightengale also highlights that the Red Sox have "strong interest" in Adames. Currently, Boston has Trevor Story at shortstop and perennial All-Star Rafael Devers at third. However, the team has reportedly considered moving Devers to another position, which could create an opportunity for Adames at third base. Additionally, Adames could provide depth at shortstop, where Story has played only 163 games in three seasons with the Red Sox. Adames' willingness to switch positions enhances his value on the market, making him a versatile and attractive option for teams looking to bolster their infield defense and lineup flexibility.  The Korea Baseball Organization's Kiwoom Heroes are set to post infielder Hyeseong Kim for Major League Baseball (MLB) teams this offseason. Kim himself confirmed the timeline to Jee-ho Yoo of South Korea's Yonhap News Agency, stating that he expects the formal posting to occur next week and plans to travel to the United States in advance.
Hyeseong Kim: A Promising Talent Kim, who turns 26 in January, has established himself as an intriguing prospect in the offseason free agent market. As the former double-play partner of current MLB player Ha-Seong Kim, he has gained valuable experience in the KBO and qualifies as a "professional" under MLB's international free agent rules. This status allows him to sign a major league deal of any length and value, unlike younger prospects who face restrictions. Impressive KBO Performance Kim's consistent performance over the past four seasons has solidified his reputation as a KBO star. He has batted over .300 with an on-base percentage of at least .372 in each of those seasons. While not known for his power, Kim hit a career-high 11 home runs last season and added 26 doubles and four triples. His strengths lie in his exceptional bat-to-ball skills, speed, and defensive prowess. Over the past four seasons, he has stolen 135 bases with an 87.1% success rate and significantly reduced his strikeout rate, achieving just a 10.9% strikeout rate in 2024. Overall, Kim has a .321/.381/.418 batting line over the past four seasons, including a .326/.383/.458 line last season. He is regarded as a plus defensive second baseman who can also handle shortstop duties. Potential MLB Interest The Seattle Mariners have already expressed interest in Kim, and he is expected to attract attention from other teams once his free agency begins. Speculative fits include the Athletics, Royals, Pirates, Braves, Yankees, and Brewers. Posting Process Once the Heroes formally post Kim, a 45-day window will open during which Kim and his representatives at CAA Baseball can negotiate with all 30 MLB teams. Any team signing Kim will not only agree to a contract with him but will also pay a posting/release fee to the Heroes. This fee amounts to 20% of the contract's first $25 million, 17.5% of the next $25 million, and 15% of any additional earnings, including performance bonuses and option year salaries. As the posting process begins, Hyeseong Kim's entry into MLB will be closely watched by teams and fans alike, eager to see where this talented infielder will land. Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced the cancellation of its plans to play regular-season games in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Mexico City next year. This decision was revealed by Commissioner Rob Manfred during the recent owners' meetings.
Focus on Tokyo Despite the cancellations, the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers are still set to open the 2025 season with two games in Tokyo. These will be the only international games on the MLB schedule for next year. Economic Challenges "We're not going to San Juan," Manfred stated, according to the Associated Press. "We did not have, despite a lot of efforts, an arrangement that made economic sense for us. We'd like to do San Juan, and what's available kind of changes year to year, and I hope it all works out in the future." Manfred also mentioned that MLB plans to return to Mexico City during the term of the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA), which expires after the 2026 season. Collective Bargaining Agreement and Future Plans The CBA had initially called for an opening series in Tokyo, a May series in Mexico City, a June series in Paris, and a September series in San Juan for the current season. However, the Paris games were canceled last November due to the inability to find a promoter. Essentially, MLB has determined that it would not be financially viable to proceed with these games, leading to their cancellation. Previous and Future International Games Earlier this year, the Dodgers and San Diego Padres made history by playing MLB's first regular-season games in South Korea. The Colorado Rockies and Houston Astros played two games in Mexico City in April, and the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies faced off in London in June. MLB has also held games in Mexico City in 2023 and in London in 2019 and 2022. From 2001 to 2018, the league played 49 games in San Juan. Looking ahead to 2026, the CBA includes plans for games in Mexico City in May, London in June, and San Juan in September. Additionally, 2026 will be a World Baseball Classic year, featuring a 20-team international tournament.  Portland Mayor-Elect Keith Wilson is expressing optimism about the city's chances of securing a Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise in the near future. During a recent appearance on a local television show, Wilson shared his confidence, stating, "I'd say this is as close as we've come. We feel confident it's down to us and one other city. And we're making a solid play," as reported by The Oregonian.
Potential Competitors While Wilson did not specify which other city is in contention, Nashville is widely considered a strong candidate. Portland's ambition to join the MLB ranks is not new. The Portland Diamond Project (PDP) has been actively pursuing a team since at least 2019. In September, the PDP announced plans to purchase property at Zidell Yards on the South Waterfront to build a stadium. Vision for the Future PDP founder and president Craig Cheek has long envisioned a transformative ballpark for Portland. "With the trends that we're seeing, like with the Battery in Atlanta, these ballparks can truly be transformational for a bigger idea than just baseball," Cheek told CBS Sports five years ago. MLB Expansion Plans MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has indicated a desire to begin the expansion process before his term ends in 2029. However, he has also emphasized the need to resolve the situations with the Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays before moving forward with expansion. The Athletics are in the process of relocating from Oakland to Sacramento this winter, with plans to eventually settle in Las Vegas. The Rays' situation remains unresolved, posing ongoing challenges for MLB. Historical Context MLB has not expanded since 1998, when the league introduced the Rays and the Arizona Diamondbacks, bringing the total number of teams to 30. As Portland continues its efforts, the city's leadership and the PDP remain hopeful that their vision will soon become a reality.  The Miami Marlins are set to hire Carson Vitale from the Seattle Mariners to serve as new manager Clayton McCullough’s bench coach, according to Daniel Kramer ofMLB.com.Vitale brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent the past seven seasons with Seattle, including five as their major league field coordinator.
Carson Vitale's Journey Vitale, 36, has built an impressive coaching resume. Before his tenure with the Mariners, he served as Seattle’s minor league field coordinator and previously worked as the Dodgers’ international field coordinator from 2016 to 2017. Vitale also spent several years as a hitting coach and manager within the Angels’ minor league system. A native of Victoria, British Columbia, Vitale was drafted in the 38th round as a catcher out of Creighton University by the Rangers in 2010 and played parts of two minor league seasons before transitioning to coaching. Marlins' Coaching Staff Revamp The Marlins are undergoing significant changes to their coaching staff following the departure of former manager Skip Schumaker. With McCullough’s appointment as manager only two weeks old, the team is actively filling out its new coaching roster. Reports indicate that the Marlins have also hired former Giants assistant hitting coach Pedro Guerrero to be their new hitting coach. Both Guerrero and Vitale have connections to Marlins assistant GM Gabe Kapler. Vitale previously worked with Kapler and McCullough in Los Angeles, while Guerrero was part of Kapler’s coaching teams in San Francisco and Philadelphia. Building for the Future As the Marlins continue to assemble their coaching staff, Vitale’s extensive experience and connections within the baseball community are expected to be valuable assets. The team's efforts to revamp and strengthen their coaching lineup highlight their commitment to building a competitive team for the upcoming season.  The Texas Rangers have formally announced their coaching staff for the upcoming season, including several key additions:
New Additions to the Coaching Staff
Returning Coaches Manager Bruce Bochy will enter his third year with the Rangers, leading a seasoned coaching staff including:
The Rangers' newly assembled coaching staff, blending experienced veterans with fresh talent, aims to drive the team to new heights in the upcoming season.  The Los Angeles Dodgers' full postseason share for their World Series championship amounted to $477,441, marking a decrease from the winner's amount in 2022 and 2023. Despite this, the overall playoff pool set a new record.
Record-Breaking Playoff Pool In the third year of expanded playoffs, the total pool reached $129.1 million, surpassing the previous record of $107.8 million set last year, according to the commissioner's office. Dodgers' Share Distribution The Dodgers voted for 79 full shares, 17.49 partial shares, and $405,000 in cash awards from their pool of $46.47 million. The 96.49 full-share equivalent increased from 76.56 last year, when the Texas Rangers split $38.81 million, with a full share worth $506,263. The Dodgers also voted the most share equivalents last year at 94.04, during their Division Series loss. Houston set a record full share of $516,347 in 2022, with the Astros dividing their pool into 59 full shares, 14.14 partial shares, and $940,000 in cash awards. Other Teams' Shares The American League champion New York Yankees received a full share worth $354,572, up from $313,634 for the Arizona Diamondbacks last year. The Yankees divided their pool into 71 full shares and 16.38 partial shares, totaling 87.38 full-share equivalents. Other playoff teams' full shares included:
Pool Distribution The pool comprises 60% of gate receipts from the first four games of the World Series and League Championship Series, the first three games of each Division Series, and the first two games of each Wild-Card Series. Travel expenses of up to $100,000 per club are deducted for each visiting team in the Wild-Card Series. The distribution of the pool is as follows:
The distribution system ensures that all playoff teams receive a portion of the earnings, with the champions taking the largest share.  The St. Louis Cardinals are actively exploring the trade market for their star third baseman, Nolan Arenado. According to Katie Woo of The Athletic, multiple teams have expressed interest, although no substantive progress has been made yet. There is a growing sense throughout the industry that the 33-year-old will eventually be dealt, with discussions expected to intensify as the Winter Meetings approach.
Arenado's Flexibility Arenado is reportedly open to playing more at first base to create roster flexibility for a potential new team. However, it is believed that he would only waive his full no-trade clause to join a club set up to contend for multiple seasons. Performance and Value Although Arenado is coming off a down season with the bat, hitting 16 homers with a 101 OPS+, he still managed to contribute 3.1 WAR (according to FanGraphs) due to his outstanding defense at third base. This blend of solid defense and offensive potential makes him a valuable asset. Comparison to Free Agents Arenado presents an attractive alternative to the top third-base options on the free-agent market, such as Alex Bregman and Willy Adames. Both Bregman and Adames are expected to command nine-figure deals and come with Draft compensation after declining a qualifying offer. Arenado, on the other hand, has three years and $74 million left on his contract, with $10 million of that paid by the Rockies.  Chicago Cubs outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger has exercised his player option for the 2025 season, but his future with the team remains uncertain. According to reports from The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, rival executives indicate that the Cubs are actively looking to trade the 29-year-old.
Bellinger's contract, which includes $27.5 million for 2025 and a potential $25 million for 2026, could limit the Cubs' return in a trade. However, if the Cubs are motivated to move him, they should be able to find a suitor. Despite a regression in production in 2024, Bellinger still posted a solid 111 OPS+ and has proven capable of handling center field, a weak position in this year's free-agent market. MLB Network insider Jon Heyman mentioned the New York Yankees as a potential fit for Bellinger if they fail to re-sign Juan Soto. Bellinger could also be a backup option for other teams involved in the Soto sweepstakes2. Trading Bellinger would provide the Cubs with more payroll flexibility to address their top priority this offseason: pitching. While the Cubs have shown interest in adding a starter, conflicting reports have emerged about which arms they might target. MLB Network insider Jon Heyman mentioned the Cubs among the teams in the mix to sign one of the three aces available via free agency: Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell, and Max Fried. However, The Athletic's Sahadev Sharma reports that the Cubs have ruled out that tier of free-agent hurlers and could also stay away from other pitchers who declined a qualifying offer, including Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Nick Pivetta. Sharma suggests a few possible options for the Cubs, including Nathan Eovaldi and Jack Flaherty.  Much of the focus on the Chicago White Sox's trade efforts this offseason centers around Garrett Crochet, the top starting pitcher readily available on the market. However, heading into the 2024 campaign, it was center fielder Luis Robert Jr. who was seen as Chicago’s potential top prize. Despite his immense talent, a series of injuries derailed Robert’s 2024 season, further cementing his reputation as an injury-prone player.
Trade Prospects and Challenges The White Sox are still hoping to move Robert, as reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today. However, a rival general manager has called the White Sox's asking price for Robert "unrealistic" due to his health concerns. “You’ve got to hope he finally stays healthy and can be the player everyone envisioned all along,” the GM said. “But the White Sox are acting like he’s some big star center fielder and are asking for your top prospects.” Injury History Robert has dealt with a litany of injuries, having been placed on the IL six times since 2021. These injuries have included a hip flexor strain, wrist sprain, MCL sprain, and a viral infection that caused blurred vision and dizziness. The injuries have significantly impacted his playing time and performance. 2024 Season Struggles Robert’s 2024 season was marked by inconsistency. After landing on the injured list early in the season and returning in June, he struggled to regain his form. Despite hitting five home runs in his first 36 plate appearances post-activation, he managed only one other hit in that span. He finished the season with a .225/.281/.370 slash line and a 32% strikeout rate over 396 plate appearances. Previous Success From 2021-2023, Robert showcased his potential, slashing .287/.331/.511 with 63 homers and 37 steals over 1292 plate appearances. His 2023 campaign was particularly impressive, earning him an All-Star selection, a Silver Slugger award, and downballot MVP votes. Despite these achievements, his ability to stay healthy remains a significant concern. Contract and Future Robert is set to earn $15 million in 2025, with $20 million club options for 2026 and 2027. If he can replicate his 2021-2023 performance, this could be a bargain even if he misses time due to injuries. While Robert’s 2024 season had its silver linings, including a rebound in sprint speed and strong defensive range, his high strikeout rate remains an issue. The White Sox must weigh his potential against his injury history as they navigate trade discussions.  The Seattle Mariners are making a strategic addition to their coaching staff by planning to hire Kevin Seitzer as their new hitting coach, according to Daniel Kramer ofMLB.com.
Edgar Martinez's New Role Edgar Martinez, who served as the team's hitting coach last season, will transition to an overarching role. Seitzer will report directly to Martinez, indicating that the Mariners legend remains the primary hitting voice within the organization. Although Martinez will not regularly travel with the team for road games, he will be heavily involved during Spring Training and most home games. His new title will be Senior Director of Hitting Strategy, as confirmed by Adam Jude of the Seattle Times. Addition of Bobby Magallanes In addition to Seitzer, the Mariners are hiring Bobby Magallanes as assistant hitting coach. Magallanes, 55, has spent the past four seasons as an assistant hitting coach with the Braves under Seitzer, bringing valuable experience to the Mariners' coaching team. Seitzer's Extensive Experience Kevin Seitzer brings two decades of hitting coach experience to Dan Wilson’s staff. His coaching career includes stints with the Diamondbacks, Royals, and Blue Jays before joining the Braves during the 2014-15 offseason. Seitzer spent 10 seasons as Atlanta’s hitting coach, a period during which the Braves were consistent contenders. The Mariners are poised to benefit from Seitzer's wealth of experience and the new structure with Martinez overseeing hitting strategy. This reshuffle aims to bolster the team's offensive performance for the upcoming season. |