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
​
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.

The Chicago Cubs have made a move to enhance their bullpen depth by signing reliever Phil Bickford to a minor league contract. The agreement was reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Bickford's Recent Performance
Phil Bickford, a 29-year-old right-hander, had a challenging year in the majors. He made eight appearances with the New York Yankees, pitching 8 1/3 innings and giving up nine runs on ten hits. Despite these struggles, Bickford shone in Triple-A, posting a 3.40 ERA with an impressive 30% strikeout rate and a manageable 7.7% walk rate. Although his big league performance didn't reflect these numbers, Bickford's ability to miss bats at the highest level remains promising.

Career Highlights
Bickford has shown potential throughout his five seasons in MLB. With an above-average 26.1% strikeout rate, he demonstrated his capability during his career-high 67 1/3 innings in 2023 with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets. However, he also experienced control issues, as evidenced by a 12.8% walk rate and nearly five earned runs allowed per nine innings.

Cubs' Strategy
By signing Bickford, the Cubs add a potentially valuable arm to their bullpen. His strong Triple-A numbers and ability to generate strikeouts make him a low-risk, high-reward addition. Bickford's experience and potential to rebound could provide the Cubs with much-needed depth and versatility in their pitching staff.

​As the Cubs gear up for the upcoming season, fans and analysts will be watching to see if Bickford can translate his minor league success to the major league level and contribute significantly to the team's success.

The Texas Rangers announced they have avoided arbitration with reliever Josh Sborz by agreeing to a one-year, $1.1 million contract for the 2025 season. However, Sborz is expected to miss the first two to three months of the season while recovering from a recent shoulder debridement surgery, as reported by Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News.

Injury and Recovery
Sborz's shoulder issues have been a persistent problem, limiting him to just 16 1/3 innings and 17 appearances out of the bullpen last season. He was placed on the injured list four times, twice due to a right rotator cuff strain and twice for shoulder fatigue. After pitching just once post-August 7, Sborz sought clarity on his shoulder issues from Dr. Neal ElAttrache, leading to the decision for surgery.

Contract Details
In 2024, Sborz earned a salary of $1.025 million and was projected to receive a slight raise to $1.3 million in his second year of arbitration eligibility. The recent surgery likely influenced the minimal raise, providing Sborz with some financial security as he focuses on his rehab. Despite his injury, the Rangers decided against non-tendering him, likely due to the relatively low investment and Sborz’s control through the 2026 season.

Career Overview
Sborz, who turns 31 in December, has played parts of the last six MLB seasons. He debuted with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2019 before being acquired by the Rangers prior to the 2021 season. His tenure in Texas has seen mixed results, with a 3.97 ERA over 59 innings in 2021, but injuries contributing to higher ERAs of 6.45 in 2022 and 5.50 in 2023.

Overall, Sborz has a 4.86 ERA during his time with the Rangers, but his underlying metrics are more encouraging, with a 3.46 SIERA. His struggles have been partly due to home run issues and some unlucky batted-ball results, such as a .396 BABIP in 2022. Despite a 10% walk rate, Sborz has maintained a solid 28.7% strikeout rate, showcasing his ability to miss bats.

Playoff Performance
Despite an inconsistent regular season in 2023, Sborz excelled when it mattered most, posting a remarkable 0.75 ERA over 12 playoff innings to help the Rangers secure the World Series title.

​The Rangers and their fans will be eagerly awaiting Sborz’s return, hopeful that he can regain his form and contribute to another successful season.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially announced that Chris Woodward will be rejoining their coaching staff as the first-base coach. This marks Woodward's second stint on manager Dave Roberts' staff, having previously held the same position from 2016 to 2018 before departing to manage the Texas Rangers.

The announcement came on Friday night, filling the vacancy left by former first-base coach Clayton McCullough, who recently became the manager of the Miami Marlins. During his nearly four-season tenure with the Rangers, Woodward compiled a 211-287 record. After his managerial role, he returned to the Dodgers as a senior advisor on their major league and player development staff for the past two seasons.

Dodgers executive vice president and general manager Brandon Gomes stated that Woodward will be responsible for baserunning and infield duties. Meanwhile, third-base coach Dino Ebel will take over outfield responsibilities, ensuring a smooth transition for the team.

​Woodward's return is expected to bring experience and familiarity to the Dodgers' coaching staff, contributing to their ongoing success in the upcoming season.

The Cincinnati Reds have made a significant move to bolster their starting rotation by acquiring Brady Singer from the Kansas City Royals in exchange for Jonathan India and Joey Wiemer. This trade is expected to have a substantial impact on the Reds' pitching staff for the upcoming season. Let's take a closer look at what the Reds' starting rotation might look like:

1. Hunter Greene
Hunter Greene, the Reds' ace, had a solid season with a 9-5 record and a 2.75 ERA. He's a power pitcher with a fastball that can reach triple digits, making him a formidable presence at the top of the rotation.

2. Nick Martinez
Nick Martinez accepted a $21.05 million qualifying offer to return to the Reds. He had a strong finish to the 2024 season, going 5-2 with a 2.42 ERA in 11 starts. His versatility allows him to be used both as a starter and a reliever, adding depth to the pitching staff.

3. Brady Singer
Brady Singer, the newly acquired right-hander, brings durability and experience to the Reds. In 2024, he made 32 starts and pitched 179 2/3 innings for the Royals, posting a 3.71 ERA1. His sinkerball-slider mix should be effective in the hitter-friendly Great American Ball Park.

4. Nick Lodolo
Nick Lodolo, a left-handed pitcher, had a mixed season with a 9-6 record and a 4.76 ERA. He has shown flashes of brilliance and has the potential to be a key part of the rotation if he can find more consistency.

5. Andrew Abbott
Andrew Abbott, another lefty, finished the season with a 10-10 record and a 3.72 ERA. He's a young pitcher with a promising future and could benefit from the veteran presence in the rotation.

6. Rhett Lowder
Rhett Lowder, a highly touted prospect, made a strong impression in his six-start debut with a 1.17 ERA. He's expected to compete for a spot in the rotation and could be a valuable addition if he continues to perform well.

7. Carson Spiers
Carson Spiers is another young pitcher who will be in the mix for a rotation spot. He has shown potential in the minor leagues and could be a dark horse to make the team.

8. Graham Ashcraft
Graham Ashcraft is another right-handed pitcher who will be competing for a spot in the rotation. He has shown flashes of potential and could be a valuable depth piece for the Reds.

​The Reds' rotation is now deeper and more experienced, with Singer and Martinez adding stability and innings to the staff. This trade also allows the Reds to focus on other areas of need as they prepare for the 2025 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 made a significant trade, acquiring second baseman Jonathan India and outfielder Joey Wiemer from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for starting pitcher Brady Singer. This move was first reported by Robert Murray of FanSided on X1.

Jonathan India: A Valuable Addition
Jonathan India, a familiar name in MLB, won the 2021 National League Rookie of the Year Award. Known for his impressive on-base skills, India boasts a .253 OBP and a .253 average over his four-year career2. He's expected to play second base for Kansas City next season, bringing a much-needed boost to the lineup.

Joey Wiemer: A Potential Gem
Joey Wiemer, though not as well-known, has shown potential in his short career. In his two-year career, he's batted .201 in 393 at-bats2. While his performance in the majors has been modest, the Royals believe he has the potential to develop further and contribute to the team.

Brady Singer: Heading to Cincinnati
​In return, the Reds have acquired Brady Singer, a reliable starting pitcher who set career highs in 2024 with 32 starts and 179.2 innings. Singer's addition to the Reds' rotation is expected to provide depth and stability.

The Baysox have officially announced their renaming to the Chesapeake Baysox during a special event at The Chesapeake Bay Foundation in Annapolis. This new team name marks an exciting chapter in Baysox baseball, reflecting the broad and diverse community of fans who support the team across the region. Despite the name change, the Chesapeake Baysox will continue to call Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie, Maryland, their home.

Expanding the Fanbase
During the 2024 season, the Baysox welcomed fans from 378 zip codes across Maryland, representing all 23 counties in the state. Beyond Maryland, fans from 1,733 zip codes across 42 other states visited, totaling 2,111 zip codes from 43 states. To better represent this impressive regional draw, the team will now be known as the Chesapeake Baysox.

A Community-Focused Team
The Chesapeake Baysox aim to be more than just a baseball team—they strive to be the heart of the community, fostering connections across generations throughout the region. While maintaining their “Baysox” identity and home at Prince George’s Stadium, the shift to “Chesapeake” highlights their growing fanbase in the broader Chesapeake Bay area. This new chapter features refreshed branding with bold, Bay-inspired logos, including a striking crab holding a baseball bat and the Maryland flag. Fans can also look forward to an all-new uniform set debuting at the start of the 2025 season.

Commitment to the Community
Greg Baroni, Founder and CEO of Attain Sports and owner of the Chesapeake Baysox, emphasized the team’s dedication to the community: “The Chesapeake Baysox, proudly based in Bowie, Maryland, are dedicated to offering affordable, family-friendly entertainment and outstanding customer service in a welcoming atmosphere for all. Our stadium is more than a venue—it’s a gathering place where the community comes together to experience the excitement of the game, rally behind our players, and celebrate together. We are here for everyone who calls the Chesapeake region home, as well as those who come to experience the beauty and spirit of our area.”

​As the Chesapeake Baysox embark on this exciting new journey, they invite all fans to join them in celebrating the new era of baseball and community engagement.

The New York Mets have announced the signing of catcher Jakson Reetz to a minor league contract, with an invitation to major league spring training. Reetz, a client of Warner Sports Management, brings his experience and versatility to the Mets organization as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Reetz, 28, spent the 2024 season within the San Francisco Giants organization. Although he only appeared in six major league games, hitting a home run in 15 plate appearances, he spent most of the season at Triple-A Sacramento. This marked his second consecutive year with the Giants' top affiliate, where he posted a respectable .254/.368/.431 slash line, including five home runs and 20 doubles in 58 games (235 plate appearances).

Originally a third-round pick by the Washington Nationals in 2014, Reetz once ranked among the Nationals' top 10-20 prospects. However, his career has since evolved into that of a journeyman. Over the past four years, he has played for the Nationals, Kansas City Royals, Milwaukee Brewers, San Francisco Giants, and now the Mets. Notably, in 2022, Reetz hit 22 home runs in just 63 games for the Brewers' Double-A affiliate, showcasing his potential power. However, his overall performance in Triple-A has been more modest, with a .241/.338/.467 slash line over parts of four seasons.

Currently, the Mets have Francisco Alvarez and non-tender candidate Luis Torrens at the top of their catching depth chart. Additionally, former first-round pick Kevin Parada, drafted 11th overall out of Georgia Tech in 2022, has struggled to show significant offensive production above the High-A level. Parada spent the 2024 season in Double-A, where he hit .214/.304/.359 in 114 games, a slight improvement over his .185/.250/.389 line in 60 plate appearances at the same level in late 2023.

​Reetz's signing provides the Mets with additional depth and options behind the plate as they approach the 2025 season. With spring training on the horizon, Reetz will look to make an impression and potentially earn a spot on the major league roster.

The Boston Red Sox have unveiled their 2025 coaching staff, introducing José Flores as the new first base coach/infield instructor and Parker Guinn as the catching instructor/bullpen catcher. These new additions join a team of returning coaches from 2024 and previously-reported hirings, creating a well-rounded and experienced staff for the upcoming season.

José Flores: First Base Coach/Infield Instructor
​Flores, 53, is an internal promotion who spent the past three seasons as the bench coach for Triple-A Worcester. His experience extends beyond the minors, having previously served as the first base/infield coach for the Philadelphia Phillies and Baltimore Orioles. Flores has also contributed his expertise to several other minor league clubs and team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. His extensive background in coaching and player development makes him a valuable asset to the Red Sox coaching staff.

Parker Guinn: Catching Instructor/Bullpen Catcher
Guinn, 31, brings a fresh perspective to the Red Sox with his diverse coaching experience. Prior to joining affiliated ball, he coached at various college programs, including the University of Washington, Everett Community College, University of Utah, and Southern Illinois Edwardsville University. Most recently, Guinn managed the Yankees in the Dominican Summer League for the past two years. His background in player development and managerial experience will be crucial in his new role with the Red Sox.
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The Red Sox are confident that the expertise and dedication of their coaching staff will lead to a successful 2025 season. The combination of seasoned professionals and fresh talent promises to bring innovative strategies and strong player development to the team.