Exciting news from Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB): Left-hander Shinnosuke Ogasawara has been officially posted by the Chunichi Dragons. This move, confirmed by reporter Francys Romero, opens up a 45-day window for Ogasawara’s representatives at William Morris Endeavor to negotiate with Major League Baseball (MLB) clubs. If no agreement is reached within this period, Ogasawara will return to the Dragons for the 2025 season.


This decision, reported in October, has now been officially sanctioned, allowing all 30 MLB teams to engage in contract talks with Ogasawara’s representatives. The posting system enables international players to join MLB teams while still under contract with their NPB teams, and Ogasawara’s availability is set to generate significant interest across the league.


While Ogasawara may not be as high-profile as fellow NPB star Roki Sasaki, who has also been posted this offseason, he possesses unique advantages. Due to MLB’s international signing rules, Ogasawara, at 27 years old with parts of 9 NPB seasons under his belt, qualifies as a "professional." This status allows him to freely negotiate contract terms, unlike younger players like the 23-year-old Sasaki, who are classified as "amateurs" and subject to the international bonus pool system with stricter financial limitations.


Ogasawara’s professional status means he can fully assess his market value and negotiate for a potentially lucrative contract without the constraints faced by younger international players. This opens up a wider range of opportunities for Ogasawara as he looks to make his mark in MLB.


The next 45 days will be crucial as Ogasawara’s representatives engage with interested MLB clubs. Teams will be looking to bolster their pitching rotations, and a seasoned left-hander like Ogasawara could be a valuable addition. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring these negotiations, eager to see where Ogasawara will land.

The baseball world held its breath as Juan Soto made his decision, signing a 15-year, $765 million deal with the New York Mets. This monumental contract has shifted the focus to other top outfielders on the market, particularly Anthony Santander and Teoscar Hernández.


With Soto off the board, the Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays have all turned their attention to Santander, according to MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi. These teams are keen to bolster their lineups after missing out on Soto, and Santander's power and consistency make him a highly sought-after asset.


In addition to Santander, the Red Sox and Yankees are also pursuing Hernández. MLB.com's Mark Feinsand reports that the Red Sox had planned to target Hernández if they failed to sign Soto, and MassLive.com's Chris Cotillo notes that the Yankees have shown "serious interest" in the right-handed slugger. The Blue Jays, however, prefer the switch-hitting Santander, while Boston seems to favor Hernández.


Despite already signing Michael Conforto, the Dodgers remain interested in retaining Hernández. Last month, Hernández expressed his desire to return to the defending World Series champions, stating he would "do everything in my power" to re-sign with the team. However, as Dodgers reporter David Vassegh mentioned, negotiations between Hernández and the team have been challenging, with ESPN's Alden Gonzalez adding that they have struggled to "bridge the gap" over the past few weeks.

The highly anticipated posting of Japanese right-hander Roki Sasaki has finally been confirmed. The Chiba Lotte Marines officially announced Sasaki's availability to Major League Baseball teams, opening a 45-day window for negotiations. This window will run from December 10th until 5:00 p.m. (ET) on January 23rd.


Sasaki, who turned 23 on November 3rd, is considered one of the most talented young pitchers in the world. He has already made a name for himself with his incredible fastball, which touches 102.5 mph, and a devastating splitter. Sasaki's impressive career includes a perfect game with 19 strikeouts in April 2022, making him a highly sought-after prospect.


Despite his potential, Sasaki is subject to the international bonus pool restrictions due to his age. This means he will sign a minor-league contract and his signing bonus will be limited by MLB's international signing rules. Teams can trade for additional pool money, but they are capped at 75% of their original pool.


Several MLB teams are expected to be in the running for Sasaki's services, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, New York Mets, and San Francisco Giants. The competition will be fierce as teams vie to secure the Japanese phenom.


As the negotiation window progresses, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see which team will ultimately land Sasaki and how he will perform in Major League Baseball.

Roki Sasaki, the star right-hander from Japan, is on the brink of entering the MLB free agent market. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Sasaki is expected to be posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines during the upcoming Winter Meetings, which start tomorrow and run through Thursday. Once posted, MLB teams will have 45 days to negotiate with Sasaki before he potentially returns to the Marines for the 2025 Nippon Professional Baseball season if no deal is reached.

Sasaki, at just 23 years old, is eager to showcase his talent in the big leagues. His willingness to leave a lucrative career in Japan indicates his strong desire to compete at the highest level. Given his status as an international free agent under 25 years old, he can only be signed using funds from an MLB team’s international bonus pool.

The timing of Sasaki’s posting is particularly noteworthy. His 45-day negotiating window will extend beyond January 15, coinciding with the opening of the 2025 international signing period. Since teams typically deplete their international budgets by December 15, it was anticipated that Sasaki would wait until after January 15 to maximize his signing potential. However, Sasaki’s priority seems to be pitching in the MLB rather than maximizing financial gain.

This early move to the big leagues creates one of the most intriguing free agent cases in recent years, reminiscent of Shohei Ohtani’s arrival in the 2017-18 offseason. Despite the relatively level financial playing field for all 30 teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers have been long considered favorites to sign Sasaki. Rumors of an unofficial agreement between Sasaki and the Dodgers have been strongly denied by his agent, Joel Wolfe.

​Sasaki’s decision will likely hinge on several factors, including team dynamics, geographic preferences, and connections to Japanese baseball. While the Dodgers present a compelling option with established Japanese stars like Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, other teams such as the Padres, Mets, Giants, and Cubs have also shown interest.

Speculation has been rife about superstar free agent Juan Soto's decision on where to sign, with many expecting it to come before the Winter Meetings conclude. According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, we should know Soto's destination "at latest" by Monday, when the Winter Meetings kick off in Dallas2.

Earlier this week, reports emerged that Soto is in the process of narrowing down his options, with the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers believed to be the remaining contenders. All of these teams have reportedly made offers exceeding $600 million3.

​As the baseball world eagerly awaits Soto's decision, the anticipation continues to build. His choice will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the team he joins and the overall landscape of Major League Baseball for the upcoming season.

The Hanshin Tigers of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) announced that they have made right-hander Koyo Aoyagi available to Major League Baseball (MLB) teams through the posting system. According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the MLB has approved the posting, opening a 45-day window for Aoyagi to negotiate and sign with a big league team.

Aoyagi, who is turning 31 next week, is projected to serve as a depth arm in MLB. Despite having experience as a starting pitcher for the Tigers, Aoyagi's sidearm delivery is more commonly found in bullpen roles. He is coming off a mixed season, which he split between the Tigers and their minor league affiliate. Over 12 starts at Japan’s top level and 11 minor league appearances, Aoyagi posted a 3.69 ERA across 61 innings. His strikeout rate of 13% is notably below the MLB average, and he demonstrated reasonable control with a 7.8% walk rate.

Aoyagi's career statistics are slightly more impressive, with a 3.08 ERA and a 17.1% strikeout rate across nine NPB seasons. However, he has experienced two consecutive average seasons, including a 4.57 ERA over 100 1/3 innings in 2023.

The 5'11" pitcher represented Japan at the 2020 Olympics, where the team won the gold medal despite Aoyagi allowing five runs in 1 2/3 innings over two appearances. He did not make Japan's World Baseball Classic roster two years later.

The posting window, which officially opened today, gives Aoyagi until January 17 to sign with an MLB team. Should he not find an acceptable offer, he will remain with the Hanshin Tigers. Aoyagi's performance suggests he might be limited to a minor league deal. If he signs with an MLB team, that team will owe a release fee to the Hanshin Tigers, calculated as 20% of the contract value for deals up to $25 million.

​Aoyagi's availability presents an opportunity for MLB teams looking for experienced depth in their pitching staff as the offseason progresses.

Hyeseong Kim, one of the premier hitters in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), has been posted by the Kiwoom Heroes, initiating a 30-day window for MLB teams to negotiate with the 25-year-old second baseman. The deadline to reach an agreement is set for 5 p.m. ET on January 3. During this period, any team willing to pay the Heroes the corresponding release fee and any applicable supplemental fees can enter talks with Kim.

Kim revealed to Jeeho Yoo of South Korea's Yonhap News Agency that he plans to travel to the United States once the posting process is complete.

Throughout his eight-season tenure with the Kiwoom Heroes, Kim has maintained a .304 batting average and a .364 on-base percentage. Known for his speed, he has stolen at least 20 bases in each of the past seven seasons, peaking at 46 steals in 2021. This year, the left-handed hitter posted a .326/.383/.458 slash line with 11 home runs and 30 steals.

Kim is also renowned for his defensive prowess, having won the KBO Golden Glove at second base in both 2022 and 2023, and previously at shortstop in 2021.

​As Kim looks to transition to MLB, his combination of offensive consistency, speed on the bases, and strong defense makes him a highly sought-after prospect for teams looking to bolster their infield.

As Lance Lynn's career advances, he's making significant changes to his training regimen to address knee issues that limited him to 117 1/3 innings last season—his lowest total for a full campaign, excluding the 2016 season he missed due to Tommy John surgery. In a recent phone interview, the 6-foot-5 right-hander revealed that he has lost 20 pounds, dropping from 280 to 260, in an effort to stay healthy and extend his career.

Lynn, 37, became a free agent after the St. Louis Cardinals declined his $12 million club option. Since his MLB debut in 2011, he ranks sixth in the majors with 2,006 1/3 innings pitched, trailing only Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander, Zack Greinke, Clayton Kershaw, and Madison Bumgarner. Like many players, Lynn is determined to prolong his time on the mound.

"The older you get, you learn new things," Lynn said. "When you look at your knees and lower body, with my age and the way my body’s built, I was going to have to lose a little bit of weight. That was the No. 1 priority, right out of the gate."

Last season, Lynn twice went on the injured list due to right knee inflammation, making only two starts after July 30. The injury, he explained, was unexpected. During his recovery, Lynn sought advice from former teammates who pitched into their late 30s and early 40s, including John Lackey, Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, and CC Sabathia.

​"I kind of came to the conclusion that I wasn’t done," Lynn said. "And if I’m not done, I’ve got to change some stuff up, just to make sure I can do the things I need to do and give myself the best chance to stay healthy for as long as I want to do it.
"I think I’ve revamped every five or six years. Here’s another revamp to maybe get ready for my last act here going into my late 30s."

The baseball world is abuzz as fans and analysts alike eagerly await Juan Soto's decision on his next team. His agent, Scott Boras, provided an update on the situation during a press conference for another of his clients, Blake Snell, who was being introduced by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Boras revealed that while no immediate decision is expected from the 26-year-old star, Soto has begun the process of narrowing down his options. This crucial step involves eliminating certain teams from consideration as he inches closer to making his final choice.

Several teams are reportedly in the running for Soto, including the Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, and New York Yankees. However, Boras did not provide a specific timeline for Soto's decision. He did note, though, that the list of potential suitors is shrinking.

Soto has reportedly held meetings with all of the interested teams and is now in the phase of making his shortlist before ultimately signing with his chosen franchise. While Boras did not disclose which teams have been ruled out, the process is clearly moving forward.

​As the anticipation builds, the baseball community remains on edge, awaiting news of where one of the game's brightest talents will land. Juan Soto's decision will undoubtedly have significant implications for the MLB landscape in the coming years

Infielder Hyeseong Kim is expected to be officially posted by the Kiwoom Heroes of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) on Wednesday at noon Eastern/11am Central, as reported by Jon Morosi of MLB Network. Once the posting is official, a 30-day window will open during which all MLB clubs can negotiate with Kim and his representatives. If no agreement is reached within that time frame, Kim will return to the Heroes for the 2025 season. While the NPB posting window has been extended to 45 days, KBO players still adhere to a 30-day negotiation period.

Kim, who turns 26 in January, indicated last week that the formal posting process was about a week away, and it appears that timeline is accurate. Once posted, Kim will be considered a "professional" under MLB rules, as he meets the criteria of being at least 25 years old and having at least six years of experience in a foreign league. This designation allows Kim to sign a deal of any length or dollar amount, unlike younger players like Roki Sasaki, who are subject to international bonus pool restrictions.

While Kim may not command a massive contract, he is expected to attract interest from MLB teams. Known for his reliable defense, Kim offers a skillset similar to that of his former double-play partner, Ha-Seong Kim, though the two are not related. Hyeseong Kim has primarily played shortstop and second base, with occasional appearances at third base and in the outfield corners.

Offensively, Hyeseong Kim's numbers are slightly below those of Ha-Seong Kim. Over eight KBO seasons, Hyeseong has posted a .304/.364/.403 slash line, whereas Ha-Seong recorded a .294/.373/.493 line in his seven KBO seasons. Although their batting averages and on-base percentages are comparable, Ha-Seong has a clear advantage in slugging power. Hyeseong hit a career-high 11 home runs in 2024, while Ha-Seong consistently hit 19 or more homers in his final six KBO seasons, including a 30-home run season in his last year.

​As the posting process begins, MLB teams will evaluate Kim's potential contributions to their rosters. His defensive versatility and solid offensive performance in the KBO make him a noteworthy candidate for MLB clubs looking to strengthen their infield.

Veteran catcher Martín Maldonado, who was released by the Chicago White Sox in July, is not ready to hang up his cleats just yet. Despite not signing with another team during the latter part of the 2024 season, Maldonado is determined to make a comeback for one more season, as reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

At 38, Maldonado has built a reputation as a defensive stalwart behind the plate. Over nearly 4,000 career plate appearances in the major leagues, his batting line of .203/.278/.344 translates to a wRC+ of 70, indicating that his offensive production has been 30% below league average. However, Maldonado's true value lies in his exceptional defense.

Throughout his career, Maldonado has accumulated 59 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS), ranking among the top ten in the majors since 2012. His framing, blocking, and throwing abilities have consistently earned high marks from FanGraphs, Baseball Prospectus, and Statcast. Additionally, his leadership and ability to work effectively with pitchers have been praised by teammates and coaches alike.

Despite his offensive struggles, Maldonado has managed to secure four contracts over the past six years, with annual values ranging from $2 million to $5 million. Teams have appreciated his defensive contributions enough to overlook his limited production at the plate.

However, 2024 proved to be a challenging year for Maldonado. After signing a one-year, $4.3 million deal with the White Sox, he posted a dismal .119/.174/.230 batting line in 147 plate appearances, with a strikeout rate of 34.7% and a walk rate of just 5.4%. Even for a player with Maldonado's modest offensive expectations, these numbers were a significant drop-off, leading to his release in July.

Undeterred, Maldonado recently played for Leones del Escogido in the Dominican Winter League, where he hit two home runs in ten games but posted a .114/.184/.314 line. While the sample size is small, it demonstrates his continued desire to compete at a high level.

​As Maldonado prepares for a potential return in 2025, he aims to leave a better final impression in the major leagues. Teams in need of a reliable defensive catcher with veteran leadership may find value in giving Maldonado another shot. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can secure a spot on a roster and contribute to a team's success in the upcoming season.

As free agency heats up, one of the top bullpen arms drawing significant attention is right-handed pitcher Clay Holmes. Known for his effective relief work, Holmes is now being eyed by a few teams as a potential candidate for a starting rotation role. According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the New York Mets are among the teams considering Holmes for this transition.

The concept of converting relievers to starters has gained traction in recent years, with several teams finding success with this approach. The Tampa Bay Rays, for example, have effectively transitioned pitchers like Drew Rasmussen, Jeffrey Springs, and Zack Littell into starting roles. Similarly, the New York Yankees experimented with Michael King as a starter towards the end of the 2023 season, leading to an impressive full season in the rotation for the Padres.

Free agency has also seen this trend, with teams stretching newly signed relievers into starting roles. The San Diego Padres' decision to sign Seth Lugo as a starter in 2023 proved successful, culminating in a second-place finish in Cy Young voting for the Royals. The Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants made similar moves with Reynaldo López and Jordan Hicks, respectively, with López delivering a standout performance for the Braves.

The potential benefits of converting Holmes to a starter are considerable. Despite the inherent risks of moving a successful reliever into a new role, the rewards can be substantial. Even if the experiment does not yield the desired results, as seen with A.J. Puk's stint with the Marlins, the pitcher can often revert to a bullpen role without major issues.

Holmes, who turns 32 on Opening Day, has minimal experience as a starting pitcher at the major league level. His brief stint as a starter with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018 resulted in mixed results over a small sample size. However, his extensive experience as a minor league starter provides a foundation for this potential transition.

​With teams increasingly willing to explore such conversions, Holmes represents a fascinating case. Whether he remains in the bullpen or transitions to the rotation, his next steps will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The upside of a successful move to the starting rotation could significantly enhance his value and impact on the field.

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.

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.

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.

As the arbitration deadline approaches, several MLB teams have reached agreements with their players, ensuring that they avoid the arbitration process. Here are some notable deals:

Dodgers: Tony Gonsolin
The Los Angeles Dodgers and right-hander Tony Gonsolin have agreed to a $5.4 million salary for 2025, matching his projection. Gonsolin signed a two-year, $6.65 million deal for the 2023 and 2024 seasons but missed all of 2024 due to Tommy John surgery.

Guardians: Sam Hentges
The Cleveland Guardians and left-hander Sam Hentges have agreed to a $1.337 million deal, just shy of his projected $1.4 million salary. Hentges has been a reliable reliever for the Guardians but will miss the entire 2025 season following shoulder surgery.

Orioles: Emmanuel Rivera
The Baltimore Orioles have reached a $1 million agreement with infielder Emmanuel Rivera, below his projected $1.4 million salary. Rivera hit .238/.312/.343 this year.

Twins: Brock Stewart, Michael Tonkin, and Justin Topa
Right-hander Brock Stewart and the Minnesota Twins have agreed to a one-year deal worth $870,000, with Stewart potentially earning another $30,000 via incentives. The Twins also reached agreements with righty Michael Tonkin for $1 million and righty Justin Topa, whose salary terms have not been reported.

Padres: Tyler Wade
The San Diego Padres and Tyler Wade have agreed to a one-year deal worth $900,000, including a club option for an additional season. Wade hit .217/.285/.239 in 2024.

Reds: Santiago Espinal
Infielder Santiago Espinal and the Cincinnati Reds have settled on a one-year deal worth $2.4 million, significantly lower than his projected $4 million. Espinal hit .246/.295/.356 for the Reds.

Rangers: Dane Dunning
The Texas Rangers and right-hander Dane Dunning have agreed to a one-year deal worth $2.66 million, a 19% pay cut after Dunning posted a 5.31 ERA in 95 innings last season.

Giants: Austin Warren
The San Francisco Giants and right-hander Austin Warren have agreed to terms on a one-year deal. Warren missed most of the season due to Tommy John surgery but returned late with a strong performance out of the bullpen.

Brewers: Eric Haase
The Milwaukee Brewers have signed catcher/outfielder Eric Haase to a one-year deal worth $1.35 million, with the potential to earn more through incentives. Haase is projected to be the backup catcher next season.

Dodgers: Dustin May
The Los Angeles Dodgers and right-hander Dustin May have settled at $2.135 million, the same salary as 2024. May aims to bounce back after missing all of this year due to injury.

Phillies: José Ruiz
The Philadelphia Phillies and right-hander José Ruiz have agreed to a $1.225 million deal, slightly above his $1.2 million projection. Ruiz can also earn bonuses for pitching in 30 and 40 games.

Tigers: Zach McKinstry
The Detroit Tigers and infielder/outfielder Zach McKinstry have agreed to a $1.65 million salary for 2025, slightly ahead of his $1.3 million projection. McKinstry played multiple positions and stole 16 bases this year.

Blue Jays: Erik Swanson
The Toronto Blue Jays have reached an agreement with right-hander Erik Swanson. While salary terms haven't been disclosed, he was projected for $3.2 million next year. Swanson finished the season strong with a 2.55 ERA in the second half.

Yankees: Trent Grisham
The New York Yankees and center fielder Trent Grisham have agreed to a $5 million salary, with another $250,000 in incentives. Despite an underwhelming season, Grisham remains with the Yankees for his final arbitration year.

Rockies: Sam Hilliard and Lucas Gilbreath
The Colorado Rockies have reached deals with outfielder Sam Hilliard and lefty reliever Lucas Gilbreath. Hilliard will earn $1 million, while Gilbreath signed for $785,000. Both figures are below their respective projections.

​These agreements allow teams and players to avoid arbitration and focus on preparing for the upcoming season.

As the offseason progresses, several MLB teams have announced their decisions to non-tender contracts to various players, making them free agents. Here are some of the notable moves:

Athletics: Dany Jiménez
The Oakland Athletics have decided not to tender a contract to right-hander Dany Jiménez, who was projected to earn $1 million. Jiménez posted a 4.91 ERA in 25 appearances for the A's in 2024, with a 21.4% strikeout rate but a high walk rate of 16.2%.

Blue Jays: Dillon Tate and Jordan Romano
The Toronto Blue Jays are planning to non-tender right-hander Dillon Tate, who was projected to earn $1.9 million. Tate, a former fourth overall pick, missed most of 2023 due to injury and had a 4.66 ERA in 2024. The Blue Jays are also non-tendering righty Jordan Romano.

Mariners: Sam Haggerty
The Seattle Mariners will non-tender outfielder Sam Haggerty, who played only eight games in 2024 due to a torn Achilles. Haggerty was projected to earn $900,000, but the Mariners have decided to move on.

Orioles: Jacob Webb
The Baltimore Orioles plan to non-tender right-hander Jacob Webb, who was projected to earn $1.7 million. Webb pitched 56 2/3 innings for the Orioles in 2024, with a 3.02 ERA and a 24.5% strikeout rate but also an 11.4% walk rate.

White Sox: Gavin Sheets and Enyel De Los Santos
The Chicago White Sox will non-tender first baseman/outfielder Gavin Sheets and right-hander Enyel De Los Santos. Sheets' non-tender was previously covered by MLBTR, and De Los Santos, who was projected to earn $1.7 million, posted a 5.20 ERA this year.

Cubs: Nick Madrigal
The Chicago Cubs have decided to non-tender infielder Nick Madrigal, who was projected to earn $1.9 million. Over the past three seasons, Madrigal has hit .251/.304/.312, with a 76 wRC+.

Dodgers: Brent Honeywell Jr. and Zach Logue
The Los Angeles Dodgers are non-tendering right-hander Brent Honeywell Jr. and left-hander Zach Logue. Both pitchers are still in their pre-arbitration years, and the Dodgers are sending them to free agency without exposing them to waivers, potentially to re-sign them on minor league deals.

Phillies: Austin Hays
The Philadelphia Phillies will not tender a contract to outfielder Austin Hays, as previously covered by MLBTR.

Pirates: Connor Joe, Bryan De La Cruz, and Hunter Stratton
The Pittsburgh Pirates are expected to non-tender first baseman/outfielder Connor Joe and outfielder Bryan De La Cruz. Joe was projected to earn $3.2 million, and De La Cruz $4 million. Additionally, the Pirates are non-tendering right-hander Hunter Stratton, who had a 3.58 ERA this year but ended the season with knee surgery.

Reds: Ian Gibaut
The Cincinnati Reds have non-tendered right-hander Ian Gibaut, who was projected to earn $800,000. Gibaut spent most of 2024 on the injured list due to arm trouble and only made two appearances.

​These non-tender moves highlight the various decisions teams are making as they prepare for the upcoming season. As these players enter free agency, it will be interesting to see where they land and how their careers continue to unfold.

The Kansas City Royals have reportedly expressed interest in signing free-agent outfielder Juan Soto this offseason, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. However, it appears that talks with Soto have not progressed far, as his asking price is likely out of the Royals' financial comfort zone.

At the beginning of the offseason, Heyman noted that two small-market teams were among the 11 clubs to reach out to Soto. The Tampa Bay Rays were quickly identified as one of those teams, and it now seems the Royals were the other. Despite initial interest, there is no indication that either Tampa Bay or Kansas City has shown serious intent to pursue Soto further. The teams that have shown significant interest include the New York Mets, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers – all of which are big-market franchises. The Philadelphia Phillies have not yet scheduled a meeting with Soto, but they are expected to engage with the star outfielder and his agent, Scott Boras, soon.

The Royals were surprisingly active in free agency last winter, committing over $110 million to sign players like Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha. Both signings proved to be successful, with Lugo finishing second in AL Cy Young voting and Wacha providing solid mid-rotation performances. Wacha opted out of the second year of his initial contract with Kansas City, only to return on a three-year, $51 million deal.

Kansas City's most significant investment came just before Spring Training when they extended franchise shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. on an 11-year deal worth nearly $289 million. Witt's outstanding performance, which earned him an MVP runner-up finish, helped the Royals end a nine-year playoff drought.

Witt's contract is the largest in Royals' history, and Soto's asking price is likely more than double that amount. While the Royals may not be able to land the market's top free agent, they could still make moves within the outfield class. Players like Anthony Santander, Teoscar Hernández, Tyler O'Neill, and Jurickson Profar are potential candidates for three- or four-year contracts. It's unlikely that any of these players would command nine-figure deals, though Santander might have an outside chance.

​Kansas City's current corner outfielders, MJ Melendez and Hunter Renfroe, have not provided the level of performance expected from a contending team. Upgrading this area will be a clear priority for the Royals' front office as they aim to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

As the Oakland Athletics prepare to transition to playing their home games at a minor-league park in Sacramento for the 2025 season, right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler has made it clear he won't be joining them. During a speaking appearance at the USC SBA Sports Business Summit on Thursday night, Athletics manager Mark Kotsay confirmed that the club had reached out to Buehler, but the free-agent pitcher expressed no interest in playing in Sacramento, according to USC student journalist Kasey Kazliner.

Buehler, 30, is coming off a challenging season in which he posted a 5.38 ERA (72 ERA+) and a 2.29 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite his struggles during the regular season, Buehler redeemed himself in the postseason, throwing the title-clinching pitch in Game 5 of the World Series. His performance has earned him the 26th spot on CBS Sports' list of the top free agents available this winter.

Buehler's decline to join the Athletics isn't surprising. The pitcher, once likened to Luis Severino for his potential and injury-plagued career, still possesses a promising arsenal. Pitch-grading models suggest that Buehler has three or four above-average pitches, making him an attractive option for teams willing to offer a one-year deal worth around $15 million.

The Athletics' situation, on the other hand, presents a less appealing prospect for top-tier players. The team announced plans to raise payroll this winter, but playing home games at a minor-league stadium is a significant deterrent. As noted previously, their potential signings will likely be limited to players seeking an opportunity at the big-league level or those who are willing to accept a one-year deal despite the less-than-ideal circumstances.

The Athletics will play their home games at Sutter Health Park, home of the Triple-A River Cats, through the 2027 season. While enhancements are being made to the ballpark, it's unlikely to compare favorably to stadiums designed for MLB teams.

With Buehler's decision to explore other options, the Athletics will need to focus on attracting players who are motivated by the chance to play and develop at the major-league level, even if it means competing in a minor-league venue for the foreseeable future. The team’s journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but it’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in professional sports.

​Stay tuned for more updates on the Athletics' offseason moves and the future of their roster as they navigate this transitional period.

The anticipation surrounding Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki's transition to Major League Baseball has reached a fever pitch. Following the announcement from the Chiba Lotte Marines that they would be posting their ace right-hander, the Los Angeles Dodgers quickly emerged as the frontrunners to land the highly coveted 23-year-old.

ESPN's Buster Olney revealed on an episode of Baseball Tonight that, after consulting with all 30 MLB general managers, there is a unanimous belief that Sasaki is heading to the Dodgers. This assertion has sparked significant controversy, with Sasaki's agent, Joel Wolfe, vehemently denying any pre-arranged agreement.

"While a bunch of executives who should know me better and do a lot of business with me insult my integrity by insinuating that I would be a part of some type of nefarious agreement," Wolfe told Evan Drellich of The Athletic. "In reality, this is just poor sportsmanship."

The crux of the debate centers around Sasaki's status as an international amateur free agent due to his age, which is under 25. Consequently, MLB teams can only use international bonus pool money to sign him. Following the Chiba Lotte Marines' announcement on November 9, it was initially expected that Sasaki would be included in the 2024 international class.

As the baseball world awaits further developments, the Dodgers' alleged favoritism has ignited discussions about fairness and transparency in the recruitment of international players. Whether Sasaki ultimately joins the Dodgers or another MLB team, his arrival is poised to make a significant impact on the league. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching to see where the talented pitcher lands and how his career unfolds in Major League Baseball.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred announced on Wednesday that Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki is expected to join the 2025 international amateur signing class. This means Sasaki likely won't be signing with a Major League Baseball (MLB) team before January 15.

"It looks like ... the signing will happen in the new pool period," Manfred confirmed, indicating the anticipated timeline for Sasaki's transition to MLB.

Since Sasaki is only 22 years old and hasn't accumulated six years of professional service time, he falls under MLB's international amateur signing bonus pool rules. This restricts the value of his MLB contract to the funds available in a team's bonus pool. Currently, the Los Angeles Dodgers have approximately $2.5 million left in their bonus pool for the 2024 international signing period, the highest among all teams. However, if Sasaki waits until the 2025 international signing period begins on January 15, he could secure a contract worth around $7 million.

For a detailed overview of the international bonus pools for the 2025 signing period, MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo has provided a complete list.

Before Sasaki can sign with an MLB team, he must be posted by his Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) team, the Chiba Lotte Marines. Earlier this month, the Chiba Lotte Marines announced their intention to post Sasaki this offseason, paving the way for his move to MLB.

Sasaki's move to MLB has generated considerable excitement. Known for his impressive pitching velocity and advanced skills, he is considered one of Japan's top talents and has the potential to make an immediate impact in the major leagues.

​As January 15 approaches, teams and fans will be eagerly watching to see which team will secure this promising young pitcher. With the Dodgers and other teams vying for his signature, Sasaki's entry into MLB promises to be one of the most anticipated events of the upcoming season.

The race to sign superstar outfielder Juan Soto is heating up as multiple teams vie for his services. Earlier this week, it was suggested that the Toronto Blue Jays might be the team to keep Soto from re-signing with the New York Yankees or joining the New York Mets in free agency. However, recent reports indicate that Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, had a "productive" three-hour meeting with the Boston Red Sox on Thursday night1.

In a mailbag published on Friday, MLB insider Andy Martino of SNY was asked about the Mets' chances of landing Soto. Martino responded, "A good chance. A solid chance. A big chance. They have the resources, ambition, and location1." He added that while Soto was happy as a Yankee, the Mets, led by president of baseball operations David Stearns and team owner Steve Cohen, are well-positioned to make a strong bid.

Despite the Yankees' financial capabilities, there are questions about how much owner Hal Steinbrenner is willing to spend, given his previous comments about the team's payroll. Cohen, on the other hand, has a history of big spending and could outbid other teams1.

Soto is expected to reset the market for position players with a historic contract this offseason, and Boras is likely hoping for a bidding war to drive up Soto's price. While Soto will continue to meet with other teams, including the Blue Jays, the competition is fierce1.

Mets icon Carlos Beltran, serving as a "special assistant" to Stearns, recently stated that the club "will go full blast for" Soto. This, along with Martino's update, suggests that Cohen won't accept Soto playing for Boston or Toronto unless they make a shocking offer exceeding $700 million1.

​The coming weeks will be crucial as Soto navigates his free agency and teams strategize to secure his services.

MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi reports that Milwaukee Brewers’ shortstop Willy Adames is drawing extensive interest from multiple teams across the majors.

Adames' market includes teams with a need at shortstop, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, San Francisco Giants, and Boston Red Sox. However, several other clubs are also eyeing Adames as a potential third baseman.

According to Morosi, teams like the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Houston Astros are among those considering Adames for a position at third base. The Astros, in particular, have a vacancy at third base after Alex Bregman entered free agency. While Houston is keen to re-sign Bregman, Morosi suggests that Adames could be their choice if they fail to retain him.

Although Adames is a natural shortstop, he is reportedly open to moving to another position for the right team and contract, as mentioned by The Athletic (subscription required).

​The versatile infielder's flexibility and high demand demonstrate his significant value as teams strategize their rosters for the upcoming seasons.

The Boston Red Sox took a significant step in their pursuit of star outfielder Juan Soto by meeting with him and his representatives, including renowned agent Scott Boras, in Southern California on Thursday night. The three-hour meeting, reported by Sean McAdam of MassLive, was characterized as "productive" and served as an introductory and informative session. Importantly, discussions did not venture into specific financial terms or contract details.

​A Historic Presentation
Soto, one of the most sought-after talents in baseball, was reportedly "impressed" by Boston's presentation. The Red Sox showcased a video highlighting their storied history of star players from the Dominican Republic, Soto’s home country. This nod to their rich heritage was a strategic move, aimed at resonating with Soto on a personal level.

Vision for the Future
In addition to honoring their past, the Red Sox laid out an ambitious vision for the future. They detailed a promising pipeline of prospects who could potentially join forces with Soto to drive the team’s success in the coming years. This forward-looking approach is a critical aspect of Boston’s pitch, as they aim to build a competitive roster around the young phenom.

Next Steps
While this initial meeting set a positive tone, it is just the beginning of a series of discussions Soto is expected to have with multiple teams in Southern California over the next few days. The Red Sox will hope that their blend of historical reverence and future promise will set them apart in the competitive pursuit of Soto's signature.

By fostering a connection with Soto and presenting a comprehensive plan for the future, the Red Sox have positioned themselves as serious contenders in the race to secure one of baseball’s brightest stars. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching as these negotiations unfold.

Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and Soto continues his meetings with potential suitors.