 The Arizona Diamondbacks are set to reintroduce Wellington Cepeda to their coaching staff. According to Isaac Azout of Fish on First, Cepeda will take on the roles of bullpen coach and assistant pitching coach for the team.
Cepeda's Homecoming This move marks a homecoming for Cepeda, who has deep roots within the Diamondbacks' organization. As a player, Cepeda pitched in the Diamondbacks' minor league system from 1997 to 2000, though he never advanced beyond the High-A level. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching, spending many years working with various minor league teams within the Diamondbacks' system. Big League Opportunity with the Marlins Cepeda's first major league coaching opportunity came with the Miami Marlins in 2020. He served as their bullpen coach for the past five years. However, the Marlins recently underwent a significant overhaul, parting ways with their entire coaching staff, as well as several other team personnel. Diamondbacks' Coaching Changes The Diamondbacks have also been making adjustments to their coaching staff, albeit not as extensive as the Marlins'. Last month, the team parted ways with pitching coach Brent Strom, bullpen coach Mike Fetters, and assistant pitching coach Dan Carlson. Brian Kaplan has since been hired to replace Strom as pitching coach, and now Cepeda will join Kaplan's staff in his new role. Cepeda's return to the Diamondbacks brings valuable experience and familiarity with the organization, which will be instrumental as the team looks to improve its pitching staff in the upcoming seasons.
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 The San Diego Padres have signed outfielder Oscar González to a minor league contract, as noted on his transactions tracker atMLB.com.González, 27, has been assigned to Triple-A El Paso, with an expected invitation to major league spring training.
Early Career and Breakout with Guardians González made his major league debut with the Cleveland Guardians in 2022, showcasing promising potential by hitting 11 home runs in 91 games. He posted a .296/.327/.461 batting line, translating to a 123 wRC+ despite a low 3.9% walk rate. His strikeout rate was a manageable 19.6%. González quickly became a fan favorite, known for his unique choice of the SpongeBob SquarePants theme song as his walk-up music and hitting a memorable walk-off home run in the Wild Card round against the Rays. Struggles in 2023 However, González's performance declined in 2023. His strikeout rate increased to 25.6% while his walk rate dropped to 2.8%. With just two home runs in 54 games, his offensive output fell to a .214/.239/.312 slash line and a wRC+ of 48. Given his defensive limitations, these offensive struggles significantly impacted his value to the team. ]Transition and Recent Performance Following the 2023 season, the Guardians placed González on waivers, leading to a brief stint with the New York Yankees, who later passed him through waivers before the 2024 campaign. In Triple-A, González managed to have a decent season despite injury interruptions. Over 78 games, he hit eight home runs with a .294/.333/.469 batting line and a 106 wRC+ for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders.  The Detroit Tigers have signed right-handed pitcher Ricky Vanasco to a minor league contract, according to MLB.com's transaction tracker. The 26-year-old, represented by Full Circle Sports Management, has been assigned to Triple-A Toledo and is expected to receive an invitation to major league spring training.
Vanasco's Journey in 2024 Vanasco concluded the 2024 season with the Tigers after being acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers in a cash deal in July. Although he spent most of his time in the minors, he made two major league appearances for Detroit. Following a non-tender decision last week, Vanasco became a free agent but was quickly re-signed by the Tigers without being exposed to waivers. Early Career and Injury Challenges Drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2017, Vanasco showed promise in the lower minors, earning a ranking as the #12 prospect in the organization by Baseball America heading into 2020. However, his career faced a setback when he underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2020, causing him to miss the entire 2021 season. To protect him from the Rule 5 Draft, the Rangers added him to their 40-man roster in November 2021. Return to Form Vanasco returned to the mound in 2022, making 23 starts across High-A and Double-A levels. He posted a 4.68 ERA over 92 1/3 innings with a strong 28.9% strikeout rate, though his 12.7% walk rate remained high. Knee surgery in 2023 limited his playing time, but he transitioned to a relief role and achieved a 2.78 ERA over 32 1/3 innings, striking out 31.9% of batters with a 9.9% walk rate. Midway through that season, he was acquired by the Dodgers. Major League Experience In 2024, Vanasco made a total of four major league appearances, split between the Dodgers and Tigers. He spent the majority of the season in Triple-A, where he recorded a 2.45 ERA over 40 1/3 innings, with a 26.4% strikeout rate and a notably high 16.5% walk rate.  The Baltimore Orioles have announced the signing of infielder Franklin Barreto to a minor league contract. It remains unclear whether the deal includes an invitation to big league Spring Training next year.
Barreto's Early Career and Rise in Prospect Ranks Barreto, 28, began his professional career with the Toronto Blue Jays, signing as an amateur out of Venezuela and making his pro debut in 2013. He quickly ascended the prospect rankings and was a consensus top-100 prospect by the time the Blue Jays traded him to the Oakland Athletics in the Josh Donaldson trade in 2015. Barreto maintained his top-100 prospect status for several years despite a decline in his offensive numbers upon reaching the upper minors. Performance in the Minors In 2016, Barreto posted a solid .281/.340/.413 slash line at the Double-A level, earning a promotion to Triple-A. However, his performance at Triple-A in 2017 did not meet expectations, with a .290/.339/.456 line that was only slightly above league average. His high strikeout rate and reliance on an unsustainable batting average on balls in play (BABIP) raised concerns about his ability to succeed at the major league level. Major League Struggles Barreto made his major league debut with the Athletics in 2017, but struggled with a .197/.250/.352 line and a 43.4% strikeout rate in 76 plate appearances. In 2018, he showed some improvement, hitting .233/.253/.493 in 75 plate appearances, though his high strikeout rate and low walk rate indicated ongoing issues with plate discipline. Subsequent Moves and Current Status Barreto's struggles continued over the next two years, leading to his trade to the Los Angeles Angels in 2020. His brief stint with the Angels was similarly unproductive, with a .118/.167/.118 line in 18 plate appearances. Since then, Barreto has spent time with the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals organizations on minor league deals before playing for the Diablos Rojos del Mexico in the Mexican League earlier this year. As Barreto joins the Orioles, he brings experience and a versatile infield option, looking to reignite his career and potentially make an impact at the major league level. The Atlanta Braves have made strategic moves to bolster their pitching depth by re-signing left-handers Ray Kerr and Royber Salinas to minor league contracts. Additionally, the team has signed left-hander Kolton Ingram to a minor league deal, according to MLB.com’s transaction tracker.
Ray Kerr's Comeback Journey Kerr, who started his major league career with the San Diego Padres, posted a 4.33 ERA and a 4.18 FIP in 27 innings during the 2023 season, with an impressive strikeout rate of 30.3%. This promising performance led the Braves to acquire him last winter, even taking on Matt Carpenter’s contract to facilitate the deal. Unfortunately, Kerr struggled early in the season, recording a 5.64 ERA in 10 appearances before undergoing Tommy John surgery in June. Now re-signed, Kerr will continue his rehabilitation with the Braves, aiming for a potential return in the second half of the 2025 season. Royber Salinas: A Familiar Face Returns Salinas, who was recently claimed off waivers from the Oakland A’s, is no stranger to the Braves organization. Originally signed by Atlanta out of Venezuela as an international amateur, Salinas was traded to the A's in the deal that brought Sean Murphy to the Braves. During his time with the A's, Salinas faced challenges in the upper minors, posting a 5.48 ERA in his first Double-A stint, though he improved to a 3.68 ERA this year before a rough stretch resulted in seven runs over 6 1/3 innings. Salinas will provide non-roster bullpen depth for the Braves, especially critical with A.J. Minter's free agency and Joe Jimenez’s surgery. Kolton Ingram: A Fresh Opportunity Ingram, who spent the 2024 season across four Triple-A organizations, brings a solid track record to the Braves. Over 51 2/3 innings, Ingram maintained a 3.66 ERA while striking out 23.7% of batters. His brief major league experience came with the Angels in 2023, where he had a challenging debut with an 8.44 ERA over 5 1/3 innings. With a year of additional development, Ingram will seek to reestablish himself and possibly earn a spot in Atlanta’s big league roster. As the Braves look ahead to the 2025 season, these signings reinforce their commitment to building a deep and flexible pitching staff.  Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is taking legal action to reclaim hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of baseball cards he claims were fraudulently purchased using his money by his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.
Allegations of Fraudulent Purchases According to court documents filed on Tuesday, Ohtani is requesting Mizuhara return signed collectible baseball cards depicting Ohtani that were in Mizuhara's "unauthorized and wrongful possession." Mizuhara, who previously pleaded guilty to bank and tax fraud for stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani, allegedly accessed Ohtani's bank account starting around November 20211. He changed security protocols to impersonate Ohtani and authorize wire transfers. By 2024, Mizuhara had used the stolen money to buy approximately $325,000 worth of baseball cards from online resellers eBay and Whatnot. Legal Consequences for Mizuhara Mizuhara's attorney, Michael G. Freedman, declined to comment on the filing. Mizuhara pleaded guilty in June to spending millions from Ohtani's Arizona bank account to cover his gambling debts, medical bills, and the baseball cards1. He is scheduled to be sentenced in January and could face more than 30 years in federal prison. Mizuhara might also be required to pay restitution to Ohtani totaling nearly $17 million, as well as over $1 million to the IRS. As a legal permanent resident with a green card, Mizuhara could be deported to Japan. Mizuhara's Role in Ohtani's Career Mizuhara stood by Ohtani during many of his career highlights, including serving as his catcher during the Home Run Derby at the 2021 All-Star Game and being present for Ohtani's two American League MVP wins and his record-breaking $700 million, 10-year deal with the Dodgers. Off the field, Mizuhara became Ohtani's friend and confidant1. However, Mizuhara gambled away tens of millions of dollars on international soccer, NBA, NFL, and college football games, though he never bet on baseball. Ohtani's legal pursuit highlights the betrayal by someone who was once a close confidant and the lengths to which he is willing to go to recover what was taken from him.  The Toronto Blue Jays are actively pursuing star outfielder Juan Soto, but like all teams, they must have contingency plans. According to Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet, the Blue Jays have shown interest in several other key players, including Max Fried, Luis Severino, Anthony Santander, and Alex Bregman.
Alex Bregman: A Top Free Agent Target Bregman, 31, is among the top free agents available this winter. His career batting line of .272/.366/.483, translating to a 135 wRC+, indicates he has been 35% better than league average at the plate overall. Bregman's strikeout rate has consistently been below 13.6% in each of the past six seasons, which is impressive considering the league average. Although his walk rate dipped slightly in 2024, it has generally remained above par throughout his career. Known for his solid defense at third base, Bregman is also willing to move to second base if needed. He is highly regarded for his clubhouse presence and leadership qualities. MLB Trade Rumors (MLBTR) predicted Bregman to secure a seven-year deal worth $182 million this offseason. While the Astros are keen on retaining him, Bregman has also been linked to the Tigers, Red Sox, Phillies, and now the Blue Jays. Blue Jays' Infield Situation The Blue Jays' third base and second base positions are currently unsettled. In 2024, Ernie Clement was the primary option at third base, posting a .263/.284/.408 batting line with a 94 wRC+. Despite his serviceable season, Clement's performance may not be enough to block a player of Bregman's caliber from joining the team. Should Bregman become the everyday third baseman, Clement could shift into a utility role, allowing him to contribute regularly. At second base, Spencer Horwitz and Davis Schneider shared playing time alongside the departed Isiah Kiner-Falefa. Although Horwitz has performed well in the majors, he is not a natural second baseman and primarily plays first base, occupied by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. With Justin Turner no longer with the team, designated hitter opportunities could open up for Horwitz and Guerrero in 2025. The Blue Jays also have other players like Addison Barger, Orelvis Martínez, Will Wagner, and Leo Jiménez, who are capable of playing third or second base. However, none of them have substantial major league experience. Given the team's desire to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign, targeting a proven major leaguer like Bregman is logical. Additionally, the Blue Jays have been linked to shortstop Willy Adames, who is willing to move to third base if required. With Bo Bichette approaching free agency, acquiring Adames could benefit the team both in the short and long term.  The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are reportedly gearing up for a fierce competition to sign free agent outfielder Juan Soto.
Early Offers and Competitive Bids MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported on Tuesday that the Red Sox have emerged as serious contenders for Soto, following a recent pitch to the 26-year-old star. By Wednesday, Heyman noted that the Yankees had responded with an improved bid, indicating that the situation around Soto "remains fluid." The Yankees have also conveyed their willingness to include opt-out clauses in Soto's new contract. Ongoing Negotiations With the first round of Soto's free agency bidding effectively over, the next round has already begun. Both the Yankees and Red Sox have upped their offers, and it is expected that other interested teams, including the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays, will adjust their initial offers as well. Heyman described the Soto sweepstakes as being in the "middle innings," suggesting that the final decision could still be some time away. Potential Contract Value Soto's new contract is anticipated to be substantial, potentially worth up to $700 million. As a transformative player, Soto has the ability to significantly impact any franchise he joins. This high-stakes bidding war reflects the intense interest and competition among teams eager to secure his talents.  The Juan Soto sweepstakes are progressing steadily, with the star outfielder recently receiving initial offers from five teams. However, there's no indication that Soto is close to making a decision on his next contract, and it's expected that multiple rounds of bids will take place.
Recently, it was revealed that Soto prefers a 15-year deal. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, while a shorter deal with a super high annual salary could make sense, it doesn't interest Soto, especially since he's expected to receive opt-outs in any long deal. If Soto aims to become the highest-paid non-pitcher, his contract could be worth around $650-700 million over 15 years. Currently, the highest-paid player in terms of average annual value (AAV) is his Yankees teammate Aaron Judge, who earns $40 million per year1. At that rate, Soto's contract would be worth $600 million. Last offseason, Shohei Ohtani signed a $700 million contract for 10 years with the Dodgers, though the cash payouts are largely deferred. Ohtani, a two-way player, bats and pitches at a high level, while Soto is one of the best in MLB at the plate. Most experts expect Soto to field a smaller contract in AAV than Ohtani since he doesn't bring the same two-way impact. The baseball world eagerly awaits Soto's decision, as his choice will undoubtedly make headlines and set a new benchmark for player contracts. Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Jose D. Hernandez has been suspended for the upcoming Arizona Complex League (ACL) season following a positive test for boldenone and nandrolone, under baseball's minor league drug program.
Hernandez's Performance and Background Hernandez, 21, had an impressive season with the ACL Dodgers, hitting .302 with four home runs and 21 RBIs in 26 games. The Venezuelan native joined the Dodgers organization in 2019, signing a contract that included a $10,000 signing bonus. Context of the Suspension This year, a total of 20 players have been suspended for positive drug tests, with nine suspensions under the minor league program and another nine under the program for minor league players based outside the United States and Canada. Two players have also been suspended under the major league drug program. Notable Suspensions:
Implications for Hernandez Hernandez's suspension is a significant setback for both the player and the Dodgers organization. As he looks forward to next season, the focus will likely be on maintaining his performance and avoiding any further violations. Right-handed pitcher Casey Sadler has announced his retirement from baseball. Sadler shared the news on X (formerly Twitter) and expressed gratitude to a multitude of supporters, including fans, young players, his family, coaches, and his agent.
Career Beginnings Sadler, 34, was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 25th round of the 2010 draft out of Western Oklahoma State College. He began his professional career primarily as a starter and gradually climbed the minor league ranks. He received brief major league opportunities in 2014 and 2015. Unfortunately, his career was interrupted by Tommy John surgery in October 2015, causing him to miss the entire 2016 season. Return to the Mound Sadler resumed pitching in 2017 and 2018, mostly in relief roles in the minors, with only two major league appearances in 2018. Following the 2018 season, Sadler became a free agent and signed a minor league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2019. His performance improved significantly that year, posting a 1.86 ERA in 19 1/3 innings with the Rays before being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers in July. With the Dodgers, he maintained a 2.33 ERA in 27 innings, finishing the season with a combined 2.14 ERA over 46 1/3 innings. Consistency and Control Throughout his career, Sadler demonstrated strong control, maintaining a 16% strikeout rate, a 6.7% walk rate, and inducing ground balls on 51.8% of balls in play. His breakout year in 2019 highlighted his ability to limit walks and keep hitters off balance. Sadler's journey from an undrafted free agent to a reliable reliever in the majors is a testament to his perseverance and dedication. As he steps away from the game, his impact and contributions will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.  San Francisco Giants legend and long-time shortstop Brandon Crawford has officially announced his retirement. In a heartfelt post on his personal Instagram account, Crawford expressed his gratitude and excitement for the next chapter of his life. The Giants have also announced that they will honor Crawford at their game on April 26, when they host the Texas Rangers, managed by Crawford's former skipper, Bruce Bochy.
Reflecting on a Dream Come True "Growing up in the Bay Area and going to games at Candlestick, I always dreamed of playing for the San Francisco Giants," Crawford shared. "Being drafted by my hometown team and spending most of my career with them far surpassed any dream I had as a kid. I definitely pretended to win a World Series in my backyard – but winning two? That was beyond my wildest dreams." He also expressed his gratitude to the Giants organization, the Cardinals, his family, coaches, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported him throughout his career. A Storied Career Crawford's journey is the epitome of a childhood dream realized. Drafted by the Giants in the fourth round out of UCLA in 2008, he witnessed the team win the World Series in 2010, although he was still in the minor leagues at the time. Crawford made his major league debut in May 2011, making an immediate impact with a grand slam in his first game. Despite a challenging rookie season, where he hit .204/.288/.296 in 66 games, Crawford's career continued to flourish. Legacy and Impact Crawford's dedication and performance on the field have cemented his status as a Giants legend. From his debut grand slam to his two World Series titles with the team, Crawford's contributions to the Giants will be remembered by fans and teammates alike. As the Giants prepare to celebrate Crawford's remarkable career, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans  The Toronto Blue Jays have reached an agreement on a minor league contract with infielder Michael Stefanic. The news was shared by Stefanic's agent, Nate Heisler of Klutch Sports, on X (formerly Twitter), while Stefanic himself expressed gratitude to the Angels and their fans on Instagram, along with his excitement for this new opportunity with Toronto.
Stefanic's Career Background Stefanic, who will turn 29 in February, began his professional career as an undrafted free agent in 2018 when he signed with the Los Angeles Angels. Despite a clear lack of power, he quickly garnered attention in the minors due to his exceptional plate discipline and versatility in playing multiple positions. In 2021, he demonstrated his potential by posting a .336/.408/.493 line with 17 home runs, significantly higher than his previous totals. This performance earned him a 132 wRC+, indicating he was 32% better than the league average. Ranked as the #22 prospect in the Angels’ system by Baseball America going into 2022, Stefanic made his Major League debut that year. Over the past three seasons, he accumulated 264 plate appearances in the majors, with an 8.7% walk rate and a 15.2% strikeout rate. However, his lack of home runs resulted in a modest slash line of .232/.317/.275 and a 72 wRC+. Despite limited major league success, Stefanic continued to excel in the minors, achieving a combined line of .349/.444/.456 and a 133 wRC+ over the past three years. New Opportunity with the Blue Jays After exhausting his final option year in 2024, Stefanic was passed through waivers and outrighted by the Angels last month. The Blue Jays have now offered him a non-roster invitation to spring training. With experience playing every position on the diamond except for center field and catcher, Stefanic has the potential to secure a utility or bench role with Toronto. This new chapter with the Blue Jays presents a promising opportunity for Stefanic to leverage his versatility and continue his professional growth.  The Los Angeles Angels have been the most aggressive team in free agency this offseason, continuing their bold approach with their first major signing, left-handed pitcher Yusei Kikuchi. The deal, officially announced on Wednesday, is a three-year, $63 million contract, making it the largest deal since Perry Minasian became the general manager in 2020.
Strengthening the Rotation This acquisition represents a significant upgrade to the Angels' rotation, following their one-year, $2.5 million signing of right-hander Kyle Hendricks. Kikuchi immediately steps in as the ace of the staff, providing a much-needed boost after the team's disappointing 99-loss season in 2024. Kikuchi's Recent Performance Kikuchi, 33, is coming off one of the best stretches of his Major League career, which included a midseason trade to the Houston Astros. He began his professional career with eight seasons in Nippon Professional Baseball before joining the Seattle Mariners for his first three MLB seasons. He then signed a three-year, $36 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the 2022 season. Between his time in Seattle and Toronto, Kikuchi posted a 4.72 ERA with a 1.38 WHIP. Midseason Turnaround Kikuchi saw remarkable improvement after his trade to the Astros on July 29. In 10 starts down the stretch, he recorded a 2.70 ERA with a 0.93 WHIP and 76 strikeouts in 60 innings. One significant change was his increased reliance on his slider, which he threw 38.9% of the time by September, compared to 36.6% four-seam fastballs. This adjustment greatly enhanced the effectiveness of both pitches. Looking Ahead The signing of Kikuchi demonstrates the Angels' commitment to enhancing their roster and competing in the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, fans can look forward to seeing how these moves translate into performance on the field.  The Baltimore Orioles and Atlanta Braves are among the teams expressing interest in free agent right-hander Nathan Eovaldi, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi.
Eovaldi's Fit and Performance Eovaldi, who will turn 35 in February, is a viable option for many teams despite his age and injury history. He is unlikely to secure a long-term contract due to his medical background, which includes two Tommy John surgeries. However, Eovaldi's consistent performance in recent years keeps him in high demand. MLB Trade Rumors has projected him to receive a $44 million guarantee on a two-year deal, with the possibility of a third year. Over the past five years, Eovaldi has made 115 starts, posting a 3.75 ERA. His annual ERA has never exceeded 3.87 during this period. His strikeout rates have ranged from 22.4% to 26.1%, his walk rates from 3.5% to 8.1%, and his ground ball rates from 42% to 51%. Overall, he has pitched 654 2/3 innings with a 24% strikeout rate, a 5.6% walk rate, and a 46.9% ground ball rate. Such consistent performance would enhance any team's rotation. Suitors and Market Competition Many teams, including the Texas Rangers, have shown interest in bringing Eovaldi on board. He has also been linked to the Braves, the Boston Red Sox, and now the Orioles. Given his performance and relatively affordable contract, it's likely that several other clubs are also eyeing Eovaldi, even if they haven't been publicly reported. Baltimore's Rotation Needs For the Orioles, Eovaldi represents a logical fit due to their rotation needs. With their 2024 ace Corbin Burnes now a free agent and injuries sidelining Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells for part of the 2025 season, the Orioles need to bolster their starting pitching. Trade deadline acquisition Trevor Rogers struggled and was demoted, leaving the rotation core consisting of Zach Eflin, Grayson Rodriguez, and Dean Kremer. Albert Suárez, despite a solid year in a swing role, may be better suited as a depth option. Rookie pitchers Chayce McDermott and Cade Povich made their debuts in 2024 but have yet to establish themselves fully. Adding Eovaldi could provide the Orioles with the stability and experience they need to strengthen their rotation and make a playoff push.  Jack Flaherty, born and raised in Southern California and a lifelong Dodgers fan, has always expressed a strong desire to remain with the team. During the Dodgers' 2024 World Series championship parade, he even stated that he never wants to leave Los Angeles.
However, the recent five-year deal between the Dodgers and Blake Snell, as reported by sources on Tuesday night, has cast doubt on Flaherty's future with the team. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi suggested on Wednesday that the addition of Snell likely means Flaherty "won't be back" with the Dodgers in 2025. Potential Landing Spots for Flaherty With his future in Los Angeles uncertain, Flaherty is exploring other options. According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Baltimore Orioles could be a potential destination for Flaherty. The Yankees, who were interested in acquiring him at the 2024 Trade Deadline, remain a possibility, although they were unable to reach a deal with the Tigers before Detroit traded Flaherty to the Dodgers. The Bronx Bombers, along with the Padres and Angels, were also mentioned by Morosi as potential landing spots for Flaherty. However, this speculation came before the Dodgers signed Snell and before the Angels agreed to terms with Yusei Kikuchi. As Flaherty navigates his next steps, his future in Major League Baseball remains a topic of great interest. Whether he ends up with the Orioles, Yankees, or another team, his next move will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.  The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are not only two of the top contenders in the race to sign Juan Soto, but they may also find themselves in a bidding war for another big-name free agent this offseason.
Interest in Blake Snell Both the Yankees and Red Sox were interested in acquiring left-handed starter Blake Snell. However, Snell reached a five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, leaving the two rivals to explore other options. Focus on Max Fried According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Yankees and Red Sox are now focusing their attention on Max Fried, the top remaining left-handed starter on the free-agent market. Fried has garnered significant interest, particularly after Snell's departure from the market. Competition for Fried The competition for Fried is fierce. In addition to the Yankees and Red Sox, other teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays—both AL East rivals—are also in the mix. Beyond these teams, many clubs are in need of starting pitching, making the market for Fried highly competitive. As the offseason progresses, the Yankees and Red Sox will continue their pursuit of key players to bolster their rosters. The race to sign Fried will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, adding another layer of intrigue to the storied rivalry between these two franchises.  Losing Blake Snell is undoubtedly a tough blow for the San Francisco Giants, but losing him to their longtime rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, adds salt to the wound. With Snell's departure, the Giants are left with a significant void in their pitching rotation that they must fill. Fortunately, several high-quality starting pitchers remain on the free-agent market, and the Giants are eyeing the top of that list.
Giants' Interest in Corbin Burnes According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Giants have shown "significant interest" in Corbin Burnes. However, securing Burnes will require more than the reported five-year, $182 million contract that Snell received. Burnes, being younger and having a more consistent track record of durability, is expected to command a deal worth over $200 million. "Given Snell’s contract – which will ultimately be worth between $160-165 million in present-day value taking the deferrals into account – there’s no reason to think that Burnes’ deal won’t be worth more than $200 million," Feinsand wrote. Competition for Burnes The 30-year-old Burnes has attracted interest from several clubs. The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal recently reported that Burnes had a meeting with the Boston Red Sox. The Baltimore Orioles have also been linked to Burnes, though they may look to address their starting rotation needs through trades. One NL executive told Feinsand that the Orioles are "the team to watch" for White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet. As the offseason progresses, the Giants will need to act quickly and decisively to fill the gap left by Snell. With significant interest in Burnes and other top pitchers, they are poised to make a strong move to bolster their rotation for the upcoming season.  The Boston Red Sox are among the five teams that have made a contract offer to star free agent Juan Soto, as reported by MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi. While the specifics of the offer remain undisclosed, it is clear that Boston is serious in its pursuit of the offseason's top free agent.
Boston's Bold Move Writing for the New York Post, Mark W. Sanchez and MLB Network insider Jon Heyman indicated that the Red Sox are increasingly seen as a legitimate contender in the race to sign the generational slugger. Boston is stepping up efforts to lure Soto away from their historic AL East rival, making a significant statement about their intentions for the upcoming season. Free Agent Interests In addition to Soto, the Red Sox have been linked to several other top free agents early in the offseason. This includes starting pitchers Corbin Burnes and Max Fried, infielder Willy Adames, and outfielder Teoscar Hernández. According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Red Sox were also in contention for Blake Snell before he agreed to a five-year deal with the Dodgers. With Snell off the market, Boston may now focus its attention on Fried to bolster their rotation. Financial Flexibility According to a report from the Boston Globe, the Red Sox are looking to add a top-tier starter even if they manage to sign Soto. However, signing Soto would reduce their financial flexibility. CEO/president Sam Kennedy has stated that the Red Sox are open to exceeding the first Competitive Balance Tax threshold of $241 million to achieve their goals. Currently, Cot's Baseball Contracts estimates the Red Sox's CBT number at approximately $164 million, leaving $77 million before reaching the tax threshold. Potential Trade Options If the Red Sox are priced out of the market for elite free-agent pitchers, they may pursue trades to fulfill their need for an ace. Jon Paul Morosi suggests that Boston could be a team to watch in the trade market for White Sox lefty Garrett Crochet. The Red Sox's depth of highly touted position-player prospects could make them an attractive trade partner for the White Sox. The New York Mets announced on Wednesday the signing of left-handed reliever Genesis Cabrera to a minor league contract, with an invitation to major league spring training.
Career Overview Cabrera, 28, has spent his MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals and Toronto Blue Jays. In 2024, he posted a 3.59 ERA over 62 2/3 innings with the Blue Jays, despite a below-average strikeout rate of 18.5% and a high walk rate of 10.7%. Command has been a consistent challenge for Cabrera, who has never posted a walk rate below 10% in any season. Performance and Potential Despite his control issues, Cabrera has remained an effective pitcher, boasting a career ERA of 3.89 across 275 2/3 innings in the majors. He has frequently pitched in high-leverage situations, accumulating 67 holds and five saves. In 2024, Cabrera's fastball velocity dipped to a career-low average of 95.9 mph, but his sinker slightly improved to an average of 96 mph. However, his strikeout rate last year was the second-lowest of his career, signaling some potential red flags. Opportunity with the Mets The Mets see potential in Cabrera's track record and velocity, despite his inconsistent command and recent performance issues. By bringing him to camp as a non-roster invitee, they have no risk and stand to gain a valuable bullpen piece if he performs well. Currently, Danny Young is the only left-handed reliever on the Mets' 40-man roster, so adding Cabrera provides much-needed depth and competition as the offseason progresses.  Two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell, one of the top free-agent pitchers this offseason, has agreed to a five-year, $182 million contract with the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, as reported by MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. While the team has yet to confirm the news, Snell posted a picture of himself in a Dodgers uniform on his Instagram account, hinting at the move.
Free Agency Journey Snell, who was a free agent for the second consecutive offseason, opted out of the final year of his two-year, $62 million contract with the San Francisco Giants. His first foray into free agency came after leading the MLB with a 2.25 ERA and recording 234 strikeouts over 180 innings with the San Diego Padres in 2023. This performance earned him his second career Cy Young Award, making him the seventh pitcher to win the award in both leagues. Early Struggles and Impressive Comeback After lingering on the free-agent market throughout the winter and into Spring Training, Snell signed with the Giants shortly before Opening Day in March. Without a regular preseason buildup, he struggled early in the season, posting a 9.51 ERA over his first six starts and landing on the injured list twice due to a left adductor strain and a left groin strain. Upon returning from his second IL stint, Snell found his Cy Young form once again. He delivered an impressive stretch, posting a 1.23 ERA with 114 strikeouts, 30 walks, and a .123 opponents’ batting average over 80 1/3 innings in his final 14 starts. His standout performance included an 11-strikeout no-hitter against the Reds on August 2, marking the first complete game of his career. Career Highlights and Challenges Inconsistency and durability have been challenges throughout Snell's career, partly due to his high walk rate (lifetime 4.1 BB/9). However, when at his best, Snell has proven to be one of the toughest pitchers in the game. Selected by the Tampa Bay Rays with the 52nd overall pick in the 2011 MLB Draft, Snell debuted in the majors in 2016 with a 3.54 ERA over 19 starts. He won his first Cy Young Award in 2018 with a 21-5 record, an American League-leading 1.89 ERA, and 221 strikeouts over 180 2/3 innings. Traded to the Padres in December 2020, Snell initially struggled but improved in 2022, culminating in his second Cy Young Award in 2023. Over his nine-season career, Snell has a 3.19 ERA and an 11.2 K/9, the all-time record among pitchers with at least 1,000 innings. Future with the DodgersAs Snell joins the Dodgers, he aims to bring his dominant pitching to a team fresh off a World Series victory. With his proven track record and renewed form, Snell is poised to be a key player in Los Angeles' rotation.  The Boston Red Sox are ramping up their pursuit of Juan Soto, the top free agent on the market, according to a report from New York Post MLB insiders Jon Heyman and Mark W. Sanchez. The franchise is highlighting Soto's potential fit with the team and its rich history of star players from the Dominican Republic, such as David Ortiz, Pedro Martinez, and Rafael Devers. Additionally, the Red Sox have a storied legacy of left-handed hitters like Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and Ortiz himself, who achieved significant success at Fenway Park.
Despite the Red Sox’s recent trend of letting star players leave to cut costs, they are emerging as a surprising contender for Soto. "Such an expenditure from the Red Sox would be stunning for a franchise that traded away Mookie Betts rather than signing him long term; that has cut payroll significantly beginning in 2020 and spent around $120 million less last season than the Yankees; and, relatedly, that has reached the postseason in one of the past six seasons, a span that has included three last-place finishes in the AL East," Heyman and Sanchez wrote. "Perhaps the Red Sox and controlling owner John Henry have decided to awaken at a busy moment." Landing Soto would be a significant coup for the Red Sox, especially if it means outmaneuvering rivals like the New York Yankees. The race for Soto's signature is highly competitive, with other major teams such as the Yankees, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers also showing strong interest. As the offseason heats up, all eyes will be on whether the Red Sox can secure one of baseball’s brightest stars to bolster their roster. The Milwaukee Brewers have signed outfielder Jared Oliva and right-handed pitcher Jon Duplantier to minor league contracts, as reported by Adam McCalvy ofMLB.com.Both players will receive non-roster invitations to the big league camp.
Jared Oliva Jared Oliva, who turns 29 tomorrow, previously had a brief stint in the majors with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He appeared in 26 games for the Pirates between 2020 and 2021, posting a .179/.220/.214 batting line in limited action. In 2023, Oliva played in Triple-A with the Los Angeles Angels, struggling to a .261/.348/.423 slash line in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League. This past season, after signing a minor league deal with the Seattle Mariners, Oliva dropped to Double-A, where he found more success. In the Texas League, Oliva recorded a strong .294/.378/.463 slash line and went 37-for-40 in stolen base attempts. Despite being older than the average Double-A player, his performance earned him a camp invite from the Brewers. Oliva's versatility allows him to play all three outfield positions, and he may start next season with Triple-A Nashville. Jon Duplantier Jon Duplantier has not played in the majors since 2021. Once a highly regarded prospect in the Arizona Diamondbacks system, Duplantier has struggled to find success at the major league level, posting a 6.70 ERA over 49 2/3 innings. During the 2024 season, Duplantier split his time between the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers organizations, as well as making four starts in the independent American Association. He made 23 appearances in the upper minors, starting seven of those games. Over 55 2/3 innings, he posted a 4.20 ERA with a notable 27.4% strikeout rate but also a high 16.1% walk rate. With these additions, the Brewers are bolstering their depth for the upcoming season and providing opportunities for Oliva and Duplantier to prove themselves and potentially earn a spot on the major league roster.  The Seattle Mariners have officially announced their coaching staff for the 2025 season. Most of the appointments are familiar faces from the previous year, but a few new names and role changes stand out.
Key Promotions and Changes
Departures and New Roles
Adam Jude of the Seattle Times relayed these changes prior to the official announcement, highlighting the internal shuffle within the organization. With these adjustments, the Mariners hope to build on their staff's experience and bring new energy into the 2025 season.  The San Francisco Giants have reached an agreement on a minor league contract with catcher Max Stassi, as initially reported by Aram Leighton of Just Baseball and subsequently confirmed on Stassi'sMLB.comtransaction log. The deal is expected to include a non-roster invitation to big league camp.
Stassi, who hasn't played in the majors since 2022, began the 2023 season on the injured list due to a left hip issue. His situation became more complicated when he was transferred to the restricted list to address a family matter. The Stassi family announced that their son was born prematurely and required extensive care in the NICU. The past offseason saw Stassi traded twice—first from the Los Angeles Angels to the Atlanta Braves, and then to the Chicago White Sox in a series of salary-driven transactions. The White Sox planned to use him as their backup catcher, but he reaggravated his hip injury, leading to season-ending surgery in June. The White Sox ultimately opted for a $500,000 buyout instead of a $7.5 million option, ending Stassi's tenure with the team without him playing a single game. Stassi's last fully healthy season in 2022 was disappointing, as he posted a .180/.267/.303 slash line over 375 plate appearances. This was a stark contrast to his impressive performance in 2020-21, when he hit .250/.333/.452 and was considered an above-average defensive catcher. His strong showing during those years earned him a $17.5 million extension from the Angels in Spring Training 2022, but his performance declined soon after. Now aiming for a fresh start with the Giants, Stassi will look to prove he can return to his form from a few years ago and contribute to the team's catching depth. |