The Tampa Bay Rays are up against a critical deadline. By Sunday, they must decide whether to commit to constructing a $1.3 billion stadium, a project initially approved in July.

Decision Time
Kathleen Peters, chairperson of the Pinellas County Commission, issued a letter on Monday to Rays presidents Brian Auld and Matt Silverman, urging them to make a decision on the stadium.

Team's Concerns
Last week, Auld and Silverman expressed reservations about the stadium deal in a letter to the County Commission. They indicated that the team might not agree to the current terms and is open to exploring alternative solutions within the area.

In the letter dated November 19, Rays officials highlighted that the new stadium could not be completed in time for the 2028 season. They also pointed out that opening the stadium in 2029 would be prohibitively expensive. The team claimed to have already invested over $50 million in the project, but alleged that the county had "suspended work on the entire project."

Financial Implications
"As we have informed the county administrator and St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch, the county's failure to finalize the bonds last month ended the ability for a 2028 delivery of the ballpark," the Rays stated in their letter. "A 2029 ballpark delivery would result in significantly higher costs that we are not able to absorb alone."

County's Response
In response, Peters dismissed the Rays' concerns, labeling the claim that a 2029 completion would be too costly as a "fallacious statement." She emphasized that the Rays are responsible for any additional costs that may arise with the project.

​With the deadline looming, the Rays' decision will significantly impact the future of their home games and the proposed $1.3 billion stadium project.

Juan Soto's journey through free agency has evolved significantly. Initially centered around meetings with teams and listening to their general pitches, the landscape has now changed. According to MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi, five teams have submitted contract offers to the 26-year-old superstar. These teams are the Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays. This development marks a crucial step in Soto's free agency.

​Over the weekend, ESPN's Buster Olney also reported that contract offers were expected to start coming in this week. With these offers on the table, the competition to secure Soto's exceptional talents is intensifying.

In response to the extensive damage at Tropicana Field caused by Hurricane Milton, Major League Baseball has made adjustments to the Tampa Bay Rays' schedule for the upcoming season. The aim is to minimize disruptions due to summer rain at Steinbrenner Field, the Rays' temporary home.

Early-Season Home Advantage
The Rays are set to play 19 of their first 22 games at home and 37 of 54 games through May 28. However, this front-loaded home schedule means they will spend 64 of their last 108 games on the road, with only eight home games each in July and August.

Series Adjustments
To avoid peak summer rains, MLB has rescheduled several series. A series initially slated for April 7-9 at the Los Angeles Angels will now take place in Tampa from April 8-10. The return series will be held in Anaheim from August 4-6 instead of St. Petersburg from August 5-7. Additionally, the Minnesota Twins will play their first series against the Rays at Steinbrenner Field from May 26-28, with the second series at Target Field in Minneapolis from July 4-6.

Road Trips
The Rays face a demanding road schedule, including a 10-game trip to Minnesota, Detroit, and Boston leading into the All-Star break, followed by a 12-game stretch visiting the Angels, Seattle, Oakland, and San Francisco from August 4-17.

Impact of Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton struck on October 9, severely damaging Tropicana Field, leaving much of its fabric roof shredded. The Rays, who have called the Trop home since their inception in 1998, are unlikely to return until 2026 at the earliest, if at all.

Weather Considerations
Historically, Tampa sees significant rainfall during the summer months. According to the National Weather Service, average monthly rainfall rises dramatically from 2.25 inches in April and 2.60 inches in May to 7.37 inches in June, peaking at 9.03 inches in August before tapering off.

Steinbrenner Field Challenges
The Class A Tampa Tarpons, who usually play at Steinbrenner Field, experienced multiple weather-related disruptions this past season, including six home postponements, two cancellations, and four suspended games from June 21 through their season finale on September 8.

Opening Series
​The Rays will start their season with six home games against the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, followed by a three-game road series in Texas. They will then return for a 13-game homestand featuring the Angels, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, and New York Yankees.

The Philadelphia Phillies are actively exploring trade options to reshape their roster for the 2025 season. Last week, Matt Gelb of The Athletic reported that the Phillies were considering trading outfielder Nick Castellanos, infielder Alec Bohm, prospect Justin Crawford, or left-hander Ranger Suárez. This week, Bob Nightengale of USA Today confirmed that Alec Bohm is being made available, and if traded, the Phillies are expected to pursue free agents Alex Bregman or Willy Adames.

Limited Options for Roster Changes
The Phillies face constraints in making roster changes, as many of their current position players are expensive veterans who are firmly established due to their performance or contracts. Bohm, however, remains in his arbitration years and is slated for free agency after the 2026 season. MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz projects Bohm’s salary for next year at $8.1 million, with another raise due for 2026.

Bohm’s Performance and Potential Upgrades
While Bohm’s performance has been solid, it hasn’t reached star levels. He has a career batting line of .277/.327/.416, translating to a 103 wRC+, indicating he’s been 3% better than the league-average hitter. In 2024, he posted a 115 wRC+, though this was skewed by a strong first half (128 wRC+) and a weaker second half (90 wRC+). Additionally, he has a career 135 wRC+ against lefties but just 91 wRC+ against righties. Defensively, Bohm has shown improvement, moving from below average to league average in 2024 according to Defensive Runs Saved.

In contrast, Bregman and Adames represent potential upgrades. Bregman has hit .272/.366/.483 in his career with a 135 wRC+ and is a strong defender at third base. Adames, with a career line of .248/.322/.444 and a 109 wRC+, is known for his strong defense at shortstop and is open to playing other infield positions.

Financial Considerations
Bohm’s projected modest salary is significantly lower than what Bregman or Adames might command. MLBTR projects Bregman to earn $182 million and Adames $160 million over six years, with average annual values around $26-27 million.

The Phillies’ payroll is already projected to increase. RosterResource estimates a payroll of $263 million for next year, $15 million higher than 2024. Their competitive balance tax (CBT) number is projected at $282 million, above the third tier of penalization. As a third-time CBT payor, any additional spending up to $301 million would incur a 95% tax, and beyond that, a 110% tax rate.

Potential Trade Moves
To balance the financial impact, the Phillies have explored using Bohm and Crawford to acquire Garrett Crochet from the White Sox. Crochet had a breakout season in 2024 with a 3.58 ERA, 35.1% strikeout rate, and 5.5% walk rate over 146 innings. His performance and affordable $2.9 million projected salary make him an attractive trade target.

​If the Phillies can use Bohm to secure a cost-effective ace like Crochet, potentially offloading Taijuan Walker’s $36 million contract, they could then use the savings to sign a star like Bregman or Adames.

The Toronto Blue Jays are making strategic moves in the offseason, showing interest in free agent outfielder Anthony Santander, as reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today. In addition to Santander, the Blue Jays are pursuing top pitchers like Corbin Burnes and Max Fried, aligning with their previous connections to top free agent starters such as Fried and Blake Snell.

Why Santander Makes Sense
Santander is a logical target for the Blue Jays. MLBTR’s Anthony Franco had already predicted Santander to sign with Toronto in their Top 50 Free Agents list earlier this month. The Blue Jays are in need of an outfielder with a powerful bat, and Santander fits that bill perfectly.

Current Outfield Scenario
At present, the Blue Jays have George Springer and Daulton Varsho as the primary outfielders. However, Varsho underwent shoulder surgery in September and might miss the start of the 2025 season. Springer, now 35, has seen a steady decline in his wRC+ over the past five years, from 155 in 2019 to just 95 in the most recent season.

In addition to Springer and Varsho, the Blue Jays have several other outfield options on their 40-man roster, including Nathan Lukes, Joey Loperfido, Jonatan Clase, Davis Schneider, Addison Barger, and Steward Berroa. However, there is a lack of certainty and proven performance among these players. Schneider, for example, is the only one with more than 81 big league games under his belt, and he’s coming off a frustrating season. This leaves plenty of room for an external addition like Santander.

The Need for Power
The Blue Jays could benefit from more home run power in their lineup. In 2024, the team ranked 26th in the majors for home runs, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. being the only player to hit more than 20 homers. Santander, who hit 44 home runs last year and has 105 homers over the past three seasons, could provide the power boost they need. His switch-hitting ability would also complement the right-handed bats of Guerrero, Springer, Bo Bichette, and Alejandro Kirk.

Defensive Considerations
While Santander is not known for his defense, his offensive production could offset any defensive shortcomings. He has slashed .244/.317/.478 over the past three years, resulting in a 124 wRC+. Additionally, the Blue Jays do not have a full-time designated hitter, which could allow them to mitigate the impact of his defensive limitations.

Backup Plan for Juan Soto
It seems that Santander might be a fallback option if the Blue Jays do not succeed in landing Juan Soto. The Blue Jays are one of the teams still in the mix for Soto, with offers expected to come in this week.

​As the Blue Jays continue to make moves in the offseason, their pursuit of players like Santander and top pitchers highlights their commitment to strengthening the roster for a competitive 2025 season.

The Atlanta Braves are actively seeking outfield help after non-tendering Ramon Laureano, with a preference for a left-handed bat, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

Focus on Depth, Not Big Names
Atlanta doesn't appear to be targeting top-tier free agents, such as Juan Soto, who remains a speculative dark horse. Veterans like Anthony Santander, Teoscar Hernandez, Jurickson Profar, and Tyler O’Neill are expected to demand notable multi-year contracts, which the Braves may not pursue. Instead, they're looking for depth to cover the early season, especially if Ronald Acuna Jr. starts on the injured list, as suggested by president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos during the GM Meetings.

Current Outfield Scenario
Without Acuna, the Braves’ outfield lineup would feature Jarred Kelenic, Michael Harris II, and a mix of Eli White, Luke Williams, and recently signed Carlos D. Rodriguez. While some might think Laureano could fill this gap, his impressive stint with the Braves was supported by an unusually high .380 BABIP, alongside a concerning 3.5% walk rate and 28.3% strikeout rate. These numbers hint at potential regression, as his previous performance in 2022-23 was much lower.

Anthopoulos' Strategy
So far, most of Atlanta's moves in free agency and trades have been modest. Anthopoulos typically avoids long-term deals, preferring trades and relying on in-house development. Under his leadership, Atlanta has awarded only three free-agent contracts longer than two years: to Will Smith, Reynaldo Lopez, and Marcell Ozuna. While not ruling out a bigger deal, it's historically unlikely.

Available Options
Fortunately, there is a deep pool of inexpensive left-handed hitters available this offseason. Potential targets include Max Kepler, Michael Conforto, Alex Verdugo, Jesse Winker, David Peralta, Mike Tauchman, and switch-hitting Dylan Carlson. Kepler and Conforto, in particular, might need multi-year deals, but the trade and waiver markets also offer opportunities.

​Anthopoulos has indicated that he expects payroll to rise in 2025. The Braves spent about $232 million last year and have a projected $202 million payroll for 2025, leaving room for some additions despite a crowded luxury-tax ledger.

The Samsung Lions of the KBO League have announced the re-signing of first baseman Lewin Díaz and right-hander Denyi Reyes. According to Dan Kurtz ofMyKBO.netand Jiheon Pae, Díaz will receive a $100,000 signing bonus, a $500,000 salary, and $200,000 in incentives, while Reyes will receive a $200,000 signing bonus, a $700,000 salary, and $300,000 in incentives.

Lewin Díaz's Journey
Lewin Díaz, now 28, has had an interesting journey in professional baseball. During his time in North America, he became a popular player despite not getting an extended big league opportunity. He began his major league career with the Miami Marlins, but only got limited chances from 2020 to 2022. After exhausting his options, Díaz was designated for assignment by the Marlins and subsequently moved to the Pirates, Orioles, and Atlanta through waivers or cash trades. The Orioles eventually ran him through waivers and did not call him up in 2023.

Despite his struggles in the majors, where he hit .181/.227/.340, Díaz excelled at the Triple-A level, posting a .258/.340/.479 line over the 2021-2023 seasons. Known for his strong defense at first base, he caught the attention of various teams. In 2024, Díaz moved to the Mexican League and put up impressive numbers, hitting .376/.452/.647 in 75 games. This performance earned him a mid-August deal with the Samsung Lions, where he continued to shine, hitting .282/.331/.518 in 29 games in Korea. This strong showing convinced the Lions to bring him back for another season.

Denyi Reyes's Performance
Denyi Reyes, also 28, has had a similar trajectory as a fringe roster player in affiliated ball. He made three appearances for the Orioles in 2022 and played nine games for the Mets in 2023, posting a 6.26 ERA in 27 1/3 innings. Despite intriguing rate stats in the minors, Reyes struggled with home runs, allowing 47 long balls over 209 1/3 innings from 2021 to 2023, resulting in a 5.59 ERA.

Reyes joined the Samsung Lions for the 2024 season and found a better fit in the groundball-heavy KBO League. He logged 144 innings over 26 starts with a 3.81 ERA, an 18.5% strikeout rate, a 4.9% walk rate, a 62.3% ground ball rate, and allowed only 15 home runs. The Lions were pleased with his performance and have decided to bring him back for the 2025 season.

​With these signings, the Samsung Lions aim to build on their roster strength and continue their success in the upcoming season.

The Cleveland Guardians have brought back former top outfield prospect George Valera on a minor league deal, inviting him to big league Spring Training as a non-roster player.

A Promising Start
Valera, now 24, was a notable international amateur signee in 2017. He excelled in the lower minors and reached Double-A at just 20 years old. His impressive offensive potential made him one of Cleveland’s most highly regarded minor leaguers, earning him a spot in Baseball America’s Top 100 prospects in 2022 and 2023. The Guardians added him to the 40-man roster after the 2021 season to protect him from the Rule 5 draft.

Recent Struggles
Unfortunately, Valera's stock has dropped over the past couple of years. While he had a strong showing in Double-A at age 21, his performance at Triple-A Columbus has been less impressive. Over three seasons, he posted a .229/.336/.424 batting line. Despite a solid 13.5% walk rate, his strikeout rate was a concerning 26.7% over 865 Triple-A plate appearances.

Injury Setbacks
Valera’s progress has been further hindered by a series of injuries. He has dealt with hamstring issues and had surgery to repair a hamate fracture in his right hand during the 2022-23 offseason. His 2024 campaign was cut short in September due to a knee injury that required patellar tendon surgery, with an expected recovery timeline of at least six months, putting his availability for Spring Training in doubt.

​As Valera prepares to rejoin the Guardians, the team and fans alike will be eager to see if he can regain his form and fulfill the promise he showed early in his career.

The Milwaukee Brewers have reached an agreement on a minor league deal with left-handed pitcher Thomas Pannone, as reported by Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. The BHSC client will join the major league camp as a non-roster invitee for the 2025 spring training.


Second Stint with the Brewers

​This will mark Pannone’s second stint with the Brewers. He was previously with the organization in 2023. Though his overall Triple-A track record may not stand out, Pannone has shown impressive performance against non-MLB competition in recent years. In 2023, he posted a 2.70 ERA over 53 1/3 innings with the Brewers’ Triple-A team. Additionally, he spent parts of the 2022-23 seasons playing for the KBO's Kia Tigers, achieving a combined 3.49 ERA across 165 innings. Most recently, Pannone recorded a 3.54 ERA over 152 1/3 innings split between the Triple-A affiliates for the Cubs and Yankees in 2024, with a 21.9% strikeout rate and a 5.9% walk rate.

Competing for a Spot
Pannone will head to camp with the Brewers, where he will compete for a rotation spot or a long relief role. He is fully stretched out and built up, ensuring that workload will not be an issue if the Brewers need to utilize him as a starter between their Nashville and Milwaukee rosters. However, it's notable that he is out of minor league options, meaning if he is added to the 40-man roster at any point, he would have to stick with the team or be placed on waivers.
​
Pannone's return to the Brewers highlights the team's ongoing efforts to bolster their pitching depth as they prepare for the upcoming season. Fans will be watching closely to see how he performs in spring training and whether he secures a spot on the major league roster.

The Cincinnati Reds have brought Mike Napoli on board for an unspecified position within the organization, according to a report by WEEI’s Rob Bradford. Napoli, who previously spent five seasons with the Chicago Cubs as a quality assurance coach and then as a first base coach, was let go in October.

Napoli's connection with the Reds' new manager, Terry Francona, runs deep. Napoli played under Francona during the 2016 season with the Cleveland Indians, a team that came close to clinching the World Series title. As Cleveland's everyday first baseman/DH, Napoli hit .239/.335/.465 with 34 home runs in 645 plate appearances, significantly contributing to the club's American League pennant run. His peak years in the majors included this stellar performance, although his production dipped with the Rangers in 2017, and a subsequent return to Cleveland in 2018 did not result in any major league playing time.

​Currently, the specifics of Napoli’s role with the Reds remain unclear. The Reds have already announced their coaching staff for Francona’s inaugural season as manager, with new additions like co-bench coach Brad Mills and hitting coach Chris Valaika, both of whom have ties to Francona's Cleveland tenure. Since there haven’t been any sudden departures from the Cincinnati staff, it's possible that Napoli’s position might be a newly created one or perhaps a non-coaching role. According to Mark Sheldon of MLB.com, Napoli will be a staff assistant not officially part of the coaching staff.

Today marks the beginning of the Padres' annual Holiday Giving Tour, a cherished tradition where the team dedicates several weeks to supporting local organizations that aid underserved communities. This year’s tour promises to be especially meaningful as it pays tribute to the late owner Peter Seidler, whose philanthropic efforts have left an enduring impact on the community.

Giving Back: The First Steps

The Holiday Giving Tour kicks off with a Turkey Distribution event for 1,000 families. In partnership with Northgate Market and the San Diego Food Bank, the Padres will distribute turkeys and other Thanksgiving essentials. Notable figures such as right-handed pitcher Jeremiah Estrada, broadcaster Mark Grant, and CEO Erik Greupner will be present to support the cause.

Extending Throughout the Region

The tour will continue throughout the month, reaching various parts of San Diego and the Baja region. This initiative aligns with the Padres’ long-standing commitment to giving back, a legacy that Seidler greatly advanced.

Honoring a Beloved Owner

Peter Seidler, who would have turned 64 earlier this month, was deeply involved in combating homelessness through various foundations, both connected to the Padres and independently. In his honor, the team organized a special initiative on his birthday, November 7th, where front office employees assembled care packages and distributed them to homeless-focused charities in San Diego.


"We're trying to honor him today by supporting several local organizations that minister to the needs of the unhoused, which was a cause that was near and dear to Peter's heart," said Greupner in a heartfelt video posted by the Padres. "He spent a lot of time and resources devoted to that. So we want to carry on his legacy and tradition—not only this year but for the years to come, to continue to do the things that Peter did to help support the most vulnerable in our community."

Continuing Seidler’s Mission

Seidler’s dedication to addressing homelessness was unparalleled. He was actively involved in the city of San Diego’s leadership council for its homelessness reduction plan and supported numerous organizations seeking solutions to homelessness. His contributions earned him recognition as the 2022 San Diegan of the Year by The San Diego Union-Tribune and the 2023 Herb Klein Spirit of San Diego Award by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce.


The Padres’ Holiday Giving Tour not only reflects Seidler's generous spirit but also reinforces the team's commitment to community service, ensuring his legacy of compassion and support continues to thrive.

After much anticipation, the Lakeshore Chinooks are thrilled to introduce the Nook Nation alternate brand! This fresh "city connect" style branding will complement our existing logos, colors, and branding, offering an exciting new look for select dates in the upcoming season and beyond.

Honoring Our Roots
Nook Nation has been the nickname for our dedicated fanbase since 2013. The new branding honors our fans and our team’s location along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. The updated logo suite is a creative reimagining of our primary logo and the iconic fish logo. Chinooks GM Eric Snodgrass expressed, “The Nook Nation alternate brand has been years in the making. We wanted an alternate and fresh look that we could use occasionally throughout the off-season and during the summer while still keeping our classic branding as our primary look. From the unique elements in the logos to the new color palette, we think the new brand will be a great representation of our fan base in the Northshore and the Milwaukee metro area.”

Exciting Merchandise Launch
The first line of Nook Nation merchandise is available now and will be on sale until December 13th. Additional merchandise will be unveiled in the spring and sold at the Tackle Box Team Store at Moonlight Graham Field for the 2025 season.

Looking Ahead to 2025
​The Nook Nation alternate uniform and jersey will be officially unveiled in early 2025. Fans can look forward to seeing the team take the field in these new uniforms on select game dates in the upcoming seasons. Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to grab your Nook Nation gear today!

"It's a refresh, not a rebrand. We would say it's an evolution, not a revolution."

This sentiment from Ashley Havili, VP of marketing and merchandise for the Salt Lake Bees, perfectly captures the essence of the team's latest announcement. On Monday, the Triple-A Angels affiliate unveiled its refreshed logos and uniforms, marking a significant milestone as they prepare for their move to the new Daybreak Field in 2025.

A Nod to Tradition with a Modern Twist
The Salt Lake Bees, established in the Pacific Coast League in 1994, have undergone several name changes over the years—from the bee-adjacent Buzz (1994-2000) to the Stingers (2001-2005), before settling on the Bees in 2006. The "Beehive State" heritage runs deep, and the team has been a staple in Salt Lake City's professional baseball history since 1915.

Embracing Their Legacy
"We're moving to a new ballpark in the southwest quadrant of the [Salt Lake] Valley. With the move, do we completely go through a rebrand and come up with a new identity for the team? Or do we stay the Bees?" said Havili. "[The Bees] are one of Utah's most beloved and recognizable brands. Instead of pivoting and abandoning the brand equity that we've built, we decided to lean into it."

The New Look
The updated color palette of the Bees remains predominantly black and gold, with the addition of "Angels red" as an accent color, visible on the sleeve patch and the sleeve trim of a cream-colored alternate uniform. A new custom primary script, black with yellow accents, adorns the home and black alternate jerseys. The primary logo features Bumble, the team's beloved mascot, who has received a slight makeover to appear a bit more serious, yet still fun and iconic.

"Bumble is our most famous player because it's Minor League Baseball," explained Havili. "There's so much transition with the players, they come and go. But Bumble is an icon for us. He's a little bit more serious of a bee now, like a killer bee, but he's really fun. He's going to be on our on-field hat, which will probably be one of our most popular."

​This refresh celebrates the Salt Lake Bees' rich history while embracing a fresh, modern look that fans will enjoy for years to come. As the team prepares for its move to Daybreak Field in 2025, the new logos and uniforms symbolize a perfect blend of tradition and innovation.

The Baltimore Orioles have solidified their coaching lineup for the 2025 season, announcing on Monday that former big league catcher Robinson Chirinos has been appointed as their new bench coach. Chirinos, who retired as a player in May 2023, joins the Orioles' staff for his first professional coaching role.

Robinson Chirinos: From Player to Coach
At 40 years old, Chirinos embarks on his new journey in professional baseball. He was often seen as a future managerial candidate during his playing career, making this transition a natural progression. The Orioles were also reportedly interested in former Cubs skipper David Ross for the bench coach position, though it's unclear if Ross was formally approached or showed mutual interest. Moving forward, the Orioles have placed their confidence in Chirinos to take on this critical role.

Adding Depth with Buck Britton
Baltimore also announced the addition of Triple-A manager Buck Britton to the major league coaching staff, where he will serve with the broad title of “major league coach.” This move brings additional experience and leadership to the team as they look to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

Chirinos' Playing Career and Legacy
Chirinos concluded his playing career with the Orioles in 2022, participating in 67 games and posting a .179/.265/.287 batting line in his age-38 season. Despite the struggles of his final year, Chirinos enjoyed a productive peak period from 2014-21, hitting .232/.327/.438 with a 104 wRC+ over 2147 plate appearances. Throughout his career, he played for several teams, including the Rangers, Astros, Rays, Cubs, Orioles, and Mets, earning a reputation as a dependable catcher with solid offensive contributions.

​The Orioles' decision to bring in Chirinos and Britton reflects their commitment to leveraging experienced and knowledgeable professionals to guide their players. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these new coaches begin to make their mark on the team.

The Los Angeles Angels have continued their assertive approach this offseason, securing a three-year, $63 million deal with free-agent left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

After a challenging 2024 season, the Angels are making significant moves to strengthen their roster. Kikuchi, who showcased impressive form with a 2.70 ERA in his 10 starts for the Houston Astros last season, is a key addition to their pitching rotation. This signing is part of the Angels' broader strategy to enhance their competitiveness for the upcoming season.

​With several impactful acquisitions already made, the Angels are demonstrating their commitment to transforming their team and making a strong push in the next campaign.

Juan Soto has already held in-person meetings with several major league teams, including the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays. Additionally, he is expected to meet with the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers. Now, the process advances to the next significant phase: teams are preparing to make their formal offers.

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, clubs interested in signing Soto could begin extending specific offers in the coming week. This development marks a crucial step in the negotiation process, as it brings Soto closer to making a decision about his future team.

MLB.com's Mark Feinsand has noted that the prevailing sentiment within the industry is that Soto's decision might come before the annual Winter Meetings, scheduled to start on December 9 in Dallas. This anticipation heightens the urgency for teams to finalize their proposals and position themselves as strong contenders for the star outfielder.

​As the negotiations progress, baseball fans and analysts will be eagerly watching to see which team successfully secures Soto's talents for the upcoming season.

The Baltimore Orioles have expressed interest in catcher Elias Diaz, according to a report by Roch Kubatko of MASNsports.com.Diaz, who earned All-Star honors in 2023 following a strong start to the season, has largely been a below-average offensive performer throughout his 10-year MLB career. However, his defensive capabilities have generally been solid, making him a valuable asset behind the plate.

Diaz's 2024 Performance
In the 2024 season, Diaz posted a .265/.313/.382 slash line over 351 plate appearances. He began the year with the Colorado Rockies before being released and subsequently picked up by the San Diego Padres in August. Despite his offensive struggles, Diaz's defensive metrics have continued to be reliable, which is a key factor for teams looking to bolster their catching depth.

Career Overview
Diaz has had a journeyman career in the major leagues, showcasing sporadic offensive success but consistently delivering defensively. His ability to handle a pitching staff and his solid defensive skills make him an attractive target for the Orioles as they look to strengthen their roster.

Orioles' Offseason Strategy
​The Orioles' interest in Diaz indicates their desire to add experienced depth to their catching position. With his combination of defensive prowess and occasional offensive bursts, Diaz could provide a steady presence behind the plate. As the offseason progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Orioles navigate their roster adjustments and whether Diaz becomes a part of their plans for the 2025 season.

The Milwaukee Brewers' Single-A affiliate team, the Carolina Mudcats, known for their iconic catfish logo and based in Zebulon, N.C., is set to undergo a significant transformation. Following the 2025 campaign, the team will relocate 25 miles east and rebrand as the Wilson Warbirds. This new identity was unveiled on Friday afternoon at the Wilson Industrial Air Center, a site originally developed as a World War II naval aviator training center. The Wilson Warbirds, a Carolina League team owned by the Brewers, will make their on-field debut at a new ballpark in downtown Wilson in 2026.

Introducing the Wilson Warbirds
The "Warbirds" name is a tribute to retired military aircraft that have been restored and remain operational. During the unveiling event, three such warbirds served as a dramatic backdrop, including a T-6 Texan Trainer, the plane used to train pilots at the Wilson Air Center during WWII.

Tyler Barnes, the Brewers' senior vice president of communications and affiliate operations, explained that the Warbirds name embodies "a sense of power, patriotism, Americana [and] the persistence to keep these old planes flying as a tribute to American history and willpower."

Honoring Local Heritage
The Warbirds moniker also honors Vollis Simpson, a WWII veteran from the Wilson area, known for creating wind-powered sculptures called whirligigs. Many of these sculptures, a source of local pride, are displayed in the city's Whirligig Park. Barnes recounted how Simpson built his first whirligig out of parts from a B-29 bomber out of necessity while stationed in Saipan.

"Whirligigs Park is visible from and adjacent to the ballpark behind the left-field wall," Barnes said. "So you’ll see these giant wind-powered sculptures that are 30 or 40 feet high. It's a perfect view, and a lot of them are classic aviation-themed."

The Warbirds' New Look
The Warbirds' new identity was crafted by Scott Starr, founder and creative director of Milwaukee-based design studio Rev Pop. The team's home uniforms will feature white with black pinstripes and red trim, while the road jerseys will incorporate two shades of blue, creating a classic, throwback feel—or as the team describes it, a "timeless aesthetic."

​This exciting rebranding marks a new chapter for the Brewers' Single-A team, blending local history and heritage with a fresh, dynamic identity. Fans can look forward to the Warbirds taking to the field in 2026, bringing a high-flying spirit to Wilson.

In a recent appearance on ESPN's Baseball Tonight podcast, Houston Astros GM Dana Brown revealed that the club has been in discussions with free agent right-hander Justin Verlander regarding a potential reunion. "We've had conversations with his agent [ISE's Mark Pieper] just to try to feel him out. I don't know if there's been a lot of progress, but we're having conversations," Brown said.

Current Focus on Alex Bregman
Brown mentioned that the Astros' primary focus this offseason is re-signing Alex Bregman. This high-profile pursuit is consuming much of the team's attention, though Brown assured fans that the club is still exploring other potential moves, such as finding another third baseman.

Verlander's Health and Market Interest
Brown acknowledged that Verlander's health will be a key factor in determining his market value. "If [Verlander] continues to work and he's healthy, it's going to be interesting to see where he goes and how much he gets. But I'm sure there will be a bunch of teams calling the agent," Brown noted. His phrasing suggested a cautious approach from the Astros, perhaps indicating they are more interested observers of Verlander's market rather than active participants at this stage.

Verlander's 2024 Season and Career Outlook
Verlander, who turns 42 in February, expressed his desire to return in 2025 after an injury-marred 2024 season. Limited to 90 1/3 innings due to shoulder and neck injuries, Verlander posted a 5.48 ERA, the highest of his career apart from his debut season in 2005. Despite his struggles, Verlander's performance in 2023 was still solid, with a 3.22 ERA over 162 1/3 innings for the Mets and Astros.

Future Contributions and Risks
​Given his track record and previous success, there is a case to be made that Verlander still has more to contribute if healthy. He has defied the odds before, notably winning his third AL Cy Young Award in 2021 after returning from Tommy John surgery. However, the possibility remains that age and injuries may have finally caught up to him. While multiple teams are expected to show interest in Verlander, the Astros must weigh the risks of a potential decline against the benefits of a possible rebound.

The Seattle Mariners have added depth to their pitching staff by signing right-handed pitcher Adonis Medina to a minor league contract, as reported by Matt Eddy of Baseball America. The deal is expected to come with an invitation to big league Spring Training next year.

Adonis Medina's Career Journey
Medina, who will turn 28 next month, began his professional career with the Philadelphia Phillies after signing out of the Dominican Republic. He made his pro debut in 2014 and quickly climbed the minor league ranks. By 2017, he was a consensus top-100 prospect in baseball following a strong performance at Single-A.
However, Medina's progress stalled over the next two years. He struggled at the Double-A level in 2019, posting a 4.94 ERA while striking out 17.5% of opponents. Despite these struggles, the Phillies called him up for his major league debut during the shortened 2020 season. In a spot start against the Blue Jays, Medina surrendered two runs over four innings, striking out four but also walking three.

Medina split the 2021 season between the big leagues and Triple-A, showing promise with a 3.52 ERA in four major league appearances but struggling with a 5.05 ERA at Triple-A. His inconsistent performance led the Phillies to place him on waivers, after which he was claimed by the Pirates and subsequently traded to the Mets.

Transition to Relief Pitching
With the Mets, Medina transitioned to a full-time reliever. While he posted a 4.65 ERA at Triple-A, his major league performance continued to be shaky, resulting in a 6.08 ERA over 23 2/3 innings. The Mets designated him for assignment in September, prompting Medina to explore opportunities overseas.

Stint in South Korea and Return to the U.S.
Medina signed with the KBO's KIA Tigers in South Korea, where he attempted to return to starting pitching. Unfortunately, this experiment did not yield positive results, as he posted a 6.05 ERA in 58 innings over 12 starts. Medina was released in July and remained unsigned until the Washington Nationals brought him back on a minor league deal in February.

With the Nationals, Medina showed improvement, recording a 3.76 ERA over 64 2/3 innings in 49 relief appearances at Triple-A. He struck out 21.9% of batters faced while walking 9.5%, marking his best ratio since his days as a top prospect.

Opportunity with the Mariners
​Now with the Mariners, Medina has the chance to compete for a spot in the bullpen during Spring Training. If he does not make the Opening Day roster, he will provide valuable non-roster depth in the minors. The Mariners hope Medina can build on his recent success and become a key contributor to their pitching staff.

The Boston Red Sox are exploring the possibility of moving longtime third baseman Rafael Devers to first base, according to a report from MassLive's Sean McAdam. This internal discussion has sparked interest in acquiring third baseman Nolan Arenado to fill the vacancy at the hot corner if Devers changes positions.

Internal Discussions and Potential Changes
The idea of shifting Devers to first base has been previously suggested by The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and The New York Post's Jon Heyman. However, McAdam's report marks the first confirmation that the Red Sox are seriously considering this move. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has previously declined to comment on the matter, emphasizing that any decision would involve discussing it with Devers first. This could be a significant hurdle, as Devers' agent, Nelson Montes de Oca, recently stated that Devers has no intention of moving off third base.

Obstacles to the Position Change
Beyond Devers' resistance, there are other challenges to this potential shift. The Red Sox already have a talented first baseman in Triston Casas, who is under team control for four more seasons and has expressed interest in a long-term extension with Boston. Casas, who missed much of the 2024 season due to injury, has a career batting line of .250/.357/.473 since his debut in late 2022.

Speculation this winter suggested that the Red Sox might consider trading Casas to acquire starting pitching, but Breslow quickly dismissed those rumors. Therefore, moving Devers to first base would require the front office to either change their stance on trading Casas or designate him as a regular DH, potentially displacing Masataka Yoshida, who has three years and $55.6 million remaining on his contract.

Possible Trade for Nolan ArenadoIf the Red Sox proceed with moving Devers to first base, they view a trade for Nolan Arenado as a viable option to fill the void at third base. Arenado, known for his exceptional defensive skills and powerful bat, could be a significant addition to the Red Sox lineup, bringing both experience and talent to the hot corner.

​As the Red Sox continue to evaluate their options, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring these developments and their potential impact on the team's roster and performance in the upcoming season.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have taken a proactive step to strengthen their bullpen by signing veteran right-handed reliever Giovanny Gallegos to a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. This move was reported by MLB Trade Rumors, though the Dodgers have yet to confirm the deal.


Gallegos' Recent Performance

​Giovanny Gallegos, 33, made a name for himself with the St. Louis Cardinals from 2019 to 2022, boasting an impressive 2.84 ERA and a 32% strikeout rate out of the bullpen. His performance secured him a two-year extension with the Cardinals. However, his numbers declined in 2023, as he posted a 4.42 ERA over 56 appearances. Struggling with a 6.53 ERA in his first 21 outings, Gallegos was released by the Cardinals on August 2nd of last season.


The Minnesota Twins signed Gallegos to a minor league contract four days later, but he did not make it back to the majors with them.

A Fresh Start with the Dodgers

According to the MLB Trade Rumors report, Gallegos has been diligently working on fixing his mechanics and has regained some velocity on his fastball. The Dodgers are known for their ability to help struggling pitchers regain their form. If they can achieve the same results with Gallegos, this could turn into a low-cost, high-reward move to bolster their bullpen as they defend their World Series title.


Dodgers' Strategy
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Signing Gallegos provides the Dodgers with a potential high-upside arm. If he can recapture his previous form, Gallegos could be a valuable asset in the bullpen. With Spring Training around the corner, fans and analysts will be closely watching his progress and the impact he can make on the team.

In a move that could significantly bolster their starting rotation, the New York Yankees are reportedly showing "mutual interest" in acquiring right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler from the Los Angeles Dodgers. This development comes from MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi, who suggests that Buehler could be eyeing a fresh start in the Bronx after an injury-plagued season.

Buehler's 2024 Season
Walker Buehler's 2024 season was a mixed bag as he struggled to regain his form following his second Tommy John surgery. Although largely ineffective during much of the season, Buehler displayed glimpses of his former All-Star caliber late in the year. Notably, he delivered six scoreless innings in the World Series, including a five-inning start in Game 3 and a clutch one-inning appearance out of the bullpen in Game 5, which he closed out at Yankee Stadium.

A Potential Fresh Start
At 30 years old, Buehler is a former first-round draft pick who has been one of baseball's top pitchers. His 2021 season stands out as a highlight, where he finished fourth in the National League Cy Young voting thanks to a stellar 2.47 ERA and 212 strikeouts over 207 2/3 innings. This performance solidified his reputation as a top-tier pitcher, making the possibility of him joining the Yankees an exciting prospect for fans and analysts alike.

Yankees' Offseason Strategy
​The Yankees are looking to enhance their pitching staff this offseason, and acquiring a pitcher of Buehler's caliber would be a significant move. His potential addition to the rotation would provide a much-needed boost, especially if he can return to his pre-injury form. As talks progress, the baseball community will be eagerly watching to see if this mutual interest culminates in a deal that brings Buehler to Yankee Stadium.

The Detroit Tigers have made a strategic move to strengthen their bullpen by claiming left-handed reliever Bailey Horn from the Boston Red Sox. This announcement came from the Red Sox, who had not previously disclosed a designation for assignment (DFA) for Horn, thus bringing their 40-man roster count down to 39.

Bailey Horn's Professional Journey
Bailey Horn, a product of Auburn University, has had a nomadic career in professional baseball. Initially drafted by the Chicago White Sox, he was later traded to the Cubs, then back to the White Sox, and eventually landed with the Boston Red Sox. The 26-year-old southpaw made his major league debut this year, appearing in 18 games. Over 18 innings, Horn allowed 14 runs (13 earned), recorded 13 strikeouts, walked 10 batters, and surrendered five home runs.

Challenges and Potential
Horn's primary challenge throughout his career has been control. He has walked nearly 13% of batters faced over four seasons in the minors, which is a high rate even for a middle reliever. Despite these control issues, several teams have shown interest in Horn due to his raw pitching talent. He averaged 95 MPH on his fastball during his time in the big leagues, showcasing the kind of power that can be a valuable asset if harnessed correctly.

Future Prospects with the Tigers
With a couple of option seasons remaining, the Tigers have time to work on refining Horn's control. If they can successfully manage his command issues, Horn could become a significant contributor to their bullpen. His addition provides the Tigers with a potential high-upside arm that can deliver solid performances when at his best.

​As the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season, Horn's development will be a key focus. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team manages his transition and whether he can overcome his control challenges to realize his full potential.

The Colorado Rockies have bolstered their infield by signing Kyle Farmer to a one-year contract with an option, according to reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post and Robert Murray of FanSided. While financial terms have not been disclosed, Farmer, represented by Beverly Hills Sports Council, returns to the NL West where his career began with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Kyle Farmer's Career Journey
Farmer's significant contributions began after his move to the Cincinnati Reds from the Dodgers. Between 2021 and 2022, he played as a versatile infielder for the Reds, hitting 30 home runs and providing nearly league-average offense. The Reds traded him to the Minnesota Twins during the 2022-2023 offseason.

In his two seasons with the Twins, Farmer recorded a .240/.308/.387 slash line over 611 plate appearances. His first year with Minnesota was notably productive, with a .256/.317/.408 line, 11 home runs, and 14 doubles in 2023. However, his performance dipped in the past season, hitting .214/.293/.353 with only five home runs in 242 plate appearances. A shoulder strain sidelined him from mid-July to mid-August, contributing to his decline. Consequently, the Twins opted out of their $6.25 million mutual option.

Role with the Rockies
As Farmer enters his age-34 season, the Rockies are optimistic about a rebound. Known primarily for his work on the left side of the infield, Farmer has over 2000 innings at shortstop and more than 1000 innings at third base. With Ezequiel Tovar at shortstop and Ryan McMahon at third, Farmer is expected to provide depth and flexibility. His right-handed bat and career .283/.344/.468 line against left-handed pitching make him a valuable asset, particularly as a potential platoon partner with McMahon against southpaws. Additionally, he is likely to see considerable time at second base, where he has logged around 800 career innings.

​The Rockies' decision to bring in Farmer reflects their strategy to strengthen their infield options and add experienced, versatile players to their roster. Fans and analysts will be watching to see if Farmer can bounce back and make a significant impact in Colorado.