Defying expectations is no small feat, but the Milwaukee Brewers did just that under the guidance of manager Pat Murphy in 2024. The young team opted out of a rebuilding year, faced injuries head-on, surpassed their projected win total, and extended the longest run of regular season success in franchise history. For these achievements, Murphy has been honored with the National League Manager of the Year Award by the Baseball Writers Association of America (BBWAA).

Murphy received this prestigious award by topping fellow finalists Mike Shildt of the Padres and Carlos Mendoza of the Mets, securing first place on 27 of the 30 ballots cast, and second place on the remaining three. This recognition marks a historic moment for the Brewers, as Murphy becomes the first manager in the franchise's history to win the award since its inception by the BBWAA in 1983.

Murphy, who will turn 66 on November 28, has a notable background with the Brewers. He was Craig Counsell’s mentor at Notre Dame and later served as Counsell’s bench coach in Milwaukee from 2016 to 2023. Murphy took over as manager after Counsell left in free agency last fall. This season, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and resilience, guiding his team through challenges and emerging victorious.

Reflecting on the honor, Murphy humbly attributed the award to his team and staff. “Any award like that is a team award. It’s a staff award,” Murphy said during a recent visit to Milwaukee. “It's embarrassing even to be mentioned with it. If you love this and you're passionate about what it means, then those types of things don’t fit with what you're really all about.

"It's about keeping your head down, trying to impact people, helping in any way you can, moving the ball forward, and then getting back in the huddle. Let someone else measure the impact years from now.”

​Murphy’s recognition not only celebrates his managerial prowess but also underscores the collective effort and spirit of the Brewers. As the team looks ahead to the future, they do so with a proven leader at the helm, ready to tackle new challenges and continue their path of success.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a strategic addition to their roster by selecting left-handed pitcher Jack Dreyer to their 40-man roster. This move, designed to protect Dreyer from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, leaves the Dodgers' roster count at 37 players.

Jack Dreyer, who turns 26 in February, joined the Dodgers as an undrafted free agent out of Iowa in 2021. Despite not being drafted, Dreyer has made impressive strides to secure a spot on the roster of the reigning World Series champions. Standing 6'2", the left-handed reliever delivered outstanding performances in the upper minors this year. Splitting his time between Double-A Tulsa and Triple-A Oklahoma City, Dreyer posted a stellar 2.20 ERA over 57 1/3 innings, with a strikeout rate of nearly 32% and a low walk rate of 5.3%.

Dreyer's addition enhances the Dodgers' bullpen depth, joining top left-handed relievers Alex Vesia and Anthony Banda. The only other southpaws on the 40-man roster are Justin Wrobleski and swingman Zach Logue. With his strong minor league numbers, Dreyer is poised to compete for a role in the middle innings for the Dodgers in the upcoming season.

​This move underscores the Dodgers' commitment to fortifying their bullpen with promising talent as they gear up for another competitive season. Fans can look forward to seeing how Dreyer's skills translate to the major leagues, potentially adding valuable depth and effectiveness to the team's pitching staff.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have bolstered their 40-man roster by adding infielder Tim Tawa and right-hander Joe Elbis, protecting them from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. As a result, the Diamondbacks' roster now stands at 37 players.

Tim Tawa, a 25-year-old versatile utility player, was drafted in the 11th round of the 2021 draft from Stanford. Primarily a second baseman, Tawa is also capable of playing corner infield and various outfield positions. In the 2024 season, he split his time between Double-A Amarillo and Triple-A Reno. He hit 31 home runs and posted a batting line of .279/.349/.519 over 613 plate appearances. Although his power numbers were likely boosted by hitter-friendly parks, Tawa's versatility and consistent performance make him a valuable potential bench player for the Diamondbacks.

Joe Elbis, 22, is a starting pitcher from Venezuela who reached Double-A this season. Over 135 1/3 innings between High-A and Double-A, Elbis recorded a 3.39 ERA. While his 20% strikeout rate is not overpowering, he maintained solid control with an 8.3% walk rate. Elbis will begin the 2025 season as a key part of the Diamondbacks' minor league rotation depth.

​By adding Tawa and Elbis, the Diamondbacks ensure that these promising players are protected from the Rule 5 Draft, reflecting the team's strategy to safeguard their emerging talent while preparing for future success. Fans can look forward to seeing how these players develop and contribute to the team's performance in the coming seasons.

The San Diego Padres have strengthened their roster by adding left-hander Omar Cruz and right-handers Henry Baez and Ryan Bergert. These additions come as part of their preparations for the Rule 5 Draft, bringing the Padres' 40-man roster to 37 players.

Omar Cruz, 25, originally signed with the Padres out of Mexico in 2018 and was traded to the Pirates in the Joe Musgrove deal in January 2021. He returned to the Padres last winter through the minor league phase of the Rule 5 Draft. This season, Cruz split his time between Double-A and Triple-A, primarily working out of the bullpen. At Double-A, he posted a solid 3.59 ERA with an impressive 35.4% strikeout rate over 47 2/3 innings, earning him a promotion to Triple-A. Despite a 4.42 ERA in the challenging Pacific Coast League, Cruz maintained a 28.7% strikeout rate, albeit with a 13.8% walk rate. The Padres see potential in Cruz and added him to the roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.

Henry Baez, 22, signed with the Padres out of the Dominican Republic and made his professional debut in 2021. He primarily served as a starter and had a breakout season in 2024. After struggling in High-A last year, Baez bounced back with a 2.95 ERA in 17 starts for the Fort Wayne TinCaps. His success continued at Double-A, where he posted a 3.06 ERA in nine starts, despite a drop in his strikeout rate to 15.1% over 50 innings. Baez's overall performance earned him a spot on the 40-man roster.

Ryan Bergert, 24, had an impressive 2023 season, pitching to a 2.73 ERA over 105 2/3 innings split between High-A and Double-A, with a 28.8% strikeout rate at the latter. However, he struggled in 2024, recording a 4.78 ERA over 98 innings with a reduced strikeout rate of 20.9%. Despite his challenges in the Arizona Fall League, the Padres see promise in Bergert's capabilities and added him to the roster.

​These strategic additions underscore the Padres' commitment to nurturing their pitching talent and preparing for future success. As Cruz, Baez, and Bergert continue their development, fans will be eager to see how these young arms contribute to the team's performance in the coming seasons.

The Boston Red Sox have announced several roster changes, designating right-handers Bryan Mata and Isaiah Campbell for assignment. These moves make room for pitchers Hunter Dobbins and Jhostynxon Garcia on the 40-man roster.

Bryan Mata, 25, was once a highly-regarded pitcher in the Red Sox system. The Venezuelan native showed promise in the low minors and earned a spot on the 40-man roster after the 2020 season. However, injuries have hindered his progress, including Tommy John surgery in 2021 and a hamstring strain this year. Mata pitched just 22 2/3 innings across four minor league levels in 2024, posting a 4.37 ERA. Despite his struggles, the Red Sox may seek to re-sign him to a minor league deal if he clears waivers.

Isaiah Campbell, 27, was acquired from the Mariners last offseason in exchange for infielder Luis Urías. Campbell pitched only 6 2/3 innings for the Red Sox, allowing 13 runs. He missed much of the season due to a shoulder impingement and elbow inflammation. Despite his difficult year, Campbell had previously shown promise with a 2.83 ERA over 27 appearances as a rookie with the Mariners.

By clearing these roster spots, the Red Sox have added Hunter Dobbins and Jhostynxon Garcia to their 40-man roster. Dobbins and Garcia are considered promising young pitchers and will be protected from the Rule 5 Draft. These additions reflect the Red Sox's strategy to develop and retain their top talent.

​These roster adjustments illustrate the Red Sox's ongoing efforts to balance their roster while protecting and nurturing emerging talent. Fans will be eager to see how Dobbins and Garcia progress in the upcoming season.

The Philadelphia Phillies have made strategic moves ahead of the Rule 5 Draft protection deadline. The team has added right-handers Moisés Chace, Mick Abel, and Jean Cabrera to their 40-man roster. In a corresponding move, fellow righty John McMillon has cleared waivers and been outrighted to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. With these changes, the Phillies' 40-man roster now consists of 39 players.

Moisés Chace, who will turn 22 in June, initially signed with the Orioles before being traded to the Phillies in the deal that sent Gregory Soto to Baltimore. Chace has shown significant strikeout potential in the minors, recording a 4.42 ERA, 31.6% strikeout rate, and 14.5% walk rate over 230 1/3 innings. Despite control issues, his ability to miss bats earned him a spot on the 40-man roster. Ranked as the #15 prospect in the Phillies' system by Baseball America, Chace's repertoire includes a fastball, slider, sweeper, and changeup. Although he has not yet reached Triple-A, the Phillies are keen to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.

Mick Abel, the Phillies' first-round pick in 2020, has demonstrated impressive strikeout capabilities. With 375 innings under his belt, Abel has posted a 4.78 ERA, 26.9% strikeout rate, and 13.3% walk rate. Ranked 12th in the system by Baseball America, Abel will need to refine his control to fully realize his potential.

Jean Cabrera, 23, an international signing from Venezuela, has recorded a 3.76 ERA, 25.4% strikeout rate, and 7.7% walk rate over 287 minor league innings. Although Cabrera has limited experience at Double-A and has yet to reach Triple-A, he is seen as a long-term prospect for the Phillies' rotation.

John McMillon, who turns 27 in January, was claimed off waivers a few weeks ago. Despite strong strikeout numbers, McMillon has struggled with control, posting a 4.75 ERA, 35.3% strikeout rate, and 17.8% walk rate over 130 2/3 innings in the minors. Having cleared waivers, McMillon will remain with the Phillies organization as non-roster depth.

​These roster moves reflect the Phillies' strategy to safeguard their emerging pitching talent while preparing for future success. The additions of Chace, Abel, and Cabrera highlight the organization's focus on developing a strong pitching staff. Fans will be watching closely to see how these young arms progress and contribute to the team's future achievements.

The Cleveland Guardians have announced significant roster changes ahead of the Rule 5 Draft protection deadline. The team has added pitchers Franco Aleman, Nic Enright, Doug Nikhazy, and outfielder Petey Halpin to their 40-man roster. To make room for these additions, the Guardians designated outfielder George Valera and relievers Peter Strzelecki and Connor Gillispie for assignment.

George Valera, once a top outfield prospect, is the most notable player designated for assignment. The 24-year-old was a consensus top-50 prospect but has been plagued by injuries over the past two years. Valera underwent hand surgery before the 2023 season and did not debut until May, playing only 11 games before June 17 due to additional injuries. He ended the 2023 season with a .211/.343/.375 batting line despite a strong 16% walk rate.

This year, Valera showed improvement, hitting .248/.337/.452 with 17 home runs. However, he was again limited by injuries, playing just 90 games before undergoing another surgery in September. This surgery comes with a six-to-nine month recovery period, likely causing Valera to start the 2025 season on the injured list and not be available until mid-year at the earliest.

Given his injury history and modest Triple-A production, the Guardians decided to remove Valera from the 40-man roster. He is now available for other teams to claim off waivers. If he clears waivers, the Guardians can outright him to the minor leagues for the 2025 season. However, since Valera has no minor league options remaining, any team that acquires him will need to keep him on their active roster or risk exposing him to waivers again later.

Franco Aleman, Nic Enright, Doug Nikhazy, and Petey Halpin were added to the roster to protect them from being selected in the Rule 5 Draft. These players have shown potential and could contribute to the Guardians in the near future. Aleman, Enright, and Nikhazy will boost the pitching depth, while Halpin adds versatility to the outfield.

Peter Strzelecki and Connor Gillispie were designated for assignment to create space on the roster. These moves illustrate the Guardians' strategy to protect their promising prospects and build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

​The Guardians' decision to part ways with Valera and add new talent reflects their commitment to developing a strong team. Fans will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the Guardians' performance in the coming year.

The Detroit Tigers have made several significant roster moves, designating infielder Eddys Leonard and relievers Ricky Vanasco and Brendan White for assignment. To fill their spots, the Tigers have added right-handers Chase Lee, Tyler Mattison, and Tyler Owens to the 40-man roster, thereby protecting them from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. With these changes, the Tigers' roster now stands at 37 players.

Eddys Leonard, 24, has been with the Tigers since being acquired from the Dodgers in August 2023. This year, he posted a .253/.320/.435 batting line across three minor league levels, though he has yet to make his major league debut.

Ricky Vanasco also joined the Tigers through a trade with the Dodgers, arriving in July. He has pitched two scoreless innings at the major league level and has four career appearances.

Brendan White, who turned 26 recently, recorded a 5.03 ERA over 40 2/3 innings as a rookie in 2023 but spent most of this season on the minor league injured list.

Chase Lee, 26, was acquired from the Rangers in the Andrew Chafin trade at this year's deadline. The Alabama product posted a 2.75 ERA over 36 innings between the two organizations, with a 30% strikeout rate and a 6.8% walk rate.

Tyler Mattison, 25, has shown excellent strikeout potential, fanning nearly 38% of hitters while posting a 2.41 ERA over 59 2/3 innings between High-A West Michigan and Double-A Erie. His performance has demonstrated enough promise to earn a spot on the 40-man roster.

​Tyler Owens, who turns 24 in January, has been traded twice since being drafted in the 13th round in 2021. After starting with Atlanta, he moved to the Rangers and then to Detroit as part of the Carson Kelly deadline deal. Owens recorded a 2.96 ERA and struck out over 25% of opponents in Double-A this year.

The Texas Rangers have bolstered their roster by selecting the contracts of right-handers Emiliano Teodo, Winston Santos, and infielder Max Acosta. This move, aimed at protecting these players from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, brings the Rangers' 40-man roster to 39 players. Additionally, the team has returned 2024 Rule 5 Draft pick Carson Coleman to the Yankees.

Emiliano Teodo, 23, has been in the Rangers' system since 2021. Initially pitching in relief, he transitioned to a starting role in 2022. Despite a 4.52 ERA at High-A last year, Teodo impressed in the Arizona Fall League with eight scoreless outings and a 48.7% strikeout rate. This earned him a spot in the Double-A rotation, where he continued to excel with a 1.98 ERA and a 30.7% strikeout rate over 86 1/3 innings in 2024. However, his 14% walk rate is a concern. Teodo’s potential for near-term success made him an easy choice for protection.

Max Acosta, 22, signed with the Rangers out of Venezuela and debuted in 2021. Primarily a shortstop, he also plays second base and has shown solid offensive growth. This year, Acosta slashed .288/.353/.425 at Double-A, significantly improving his strikeout rate from 21.1% to 13.4%. His speed and contact ability, combined with strong baserunning skills, make him a valuable asset. Acosta further solidified his case by excelling in the Arizona Fall League with a .338/.413/.521 line.

Winston Santos, 22, had a challenging start with a 6.29 ERA in Triple-A last year but rebounded with a 2.80 ERA and a 30.5% strikeout rate in his second attempt. His transition to Double-A saw mixed results, with a 4.89 ERA but a strong 29.5% strikeout rate. Despite his issues with home runs, the Rangers opted to protect Santos due to his high strikeout potential.

​These strategic moves underscore the Rangers' commitment to retaining and developing promising talent. As fans eagerly await the contributions of Teodo, Acosta, and Santos, these additions reinforce the team's depth and readiness for future successes.

The Minnesota Twins have strengthened their 40-man roster by adding right-handers Marco Raya and Travis Adams. This move, aimed at protecting these promising pitchers from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, brings the Twins' 40-man roster to 37 players.

Marco Raya, one of the Twins' top pitching prospects, was an obvious choice for protection. The 21-year-old right-hander, drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 draft, had a commendable 2024 season. He spent the majority of the year in Double-A, where he performed admirably against more experienced competition. Raya capped off his season with an impressive five shutout innings in his lone Triple-A start. Over the season, he posted a 4.05 ERA in 97 2/3 innings, with a 24.6% strikeout rate and a 10.5% walk rate.

Raya is praised for his high spin rates on his 96 mph fastball and his mid-80s slider, both of which are effective strikeout pitches. He also mixes in a changeup, curveball, and cutter, making him a versatile pitcher. While he may not make the Opening Day roster, Raya is expected to be in the mix for a rotation spot if the Twins need pitching assistance next summer.

Travis Adams, 25, was a sixth-round pick out of Sacramento State and has been a reliable starter in the minor leagues. This past season, Adams made 22 starts out of 26 appearances across Double-A and Triple-A, achieving a solid 3.90 ERA over 127 innings. He maintained a league-average 22.6% strikeout rate and an impressive sub-7% walk rate. Adams' consistent performance has earned him a spot on the 40-man roster, providing the Twins with valuable rotation depth. He is poised to potentially make his MLB debut next season.

​These additions demonstrate the Twins' commitment to safeguarding their top prospects and preparing for the future. As Raya and Adams continue their development, they offer the Twins promising options to enhance their pitching staff in the coming seasons. Fans will be watching closely to see how these young talents contribute to the team's success.

The Kansas City Royals have announced the addition of left-hander Noah Cameron and right-handers Luinder Avila and Eric Cerantola to their 40-man roster, ensuring these promising players are protected from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. With these moves, the Royals' 40-man roster now comprises 37 players.

Noah Cameron, 25, was drafted in the seventh round by the Royals in 2021. Despite struggling in his initial Double-A experience, Cameron made significant improvements this year. He posted a commendable 3.63 ERA in 16 starts at the Double-A level, leading to a promotion to Triple-A. At Triple-A, he excelled, recording a 2.32 ERA over 54 1/3 innings, with a 29% strikeout rate and a 5.1% walk rate. Cameron's impressive late-season performance made it an easy decision for the Royals to add him to the roster.

Luinder Avila, 23, signed with the Royals out of Venezuela and made his professional debut in 2018. He transitioned to stateside play in 2021 as a starter and has generally remained in that role. This season, Avila posted a 3.81 ERA in 19 starts for the Double-A affiliate, striking out 22.9% of batters over 82 2/3 innings. Although his sole Triple-A start this year was challenging, the Royals saw enough potential to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.

Eric Cerantola, 24, was a fifth-round pick in the 2021 draft. Known for his strikeout ability, Cerantola struck out 31.7% of batters faced in Double-A, though he also had a high walk rate of 16.2%. His performance earned him a midseason promotion to Triple-A, where he continued to show promise with a 31.3% strikeout rate and a 3.77 ERA over 14 1/3 innings. Given his potential as a high-strikeout reliever, the Royals opted to secure his place on the roster.

​These additions reflect the Royals' commitment to retaining and developing their young talent. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, fans can anticipate seeing these players continue their progression and potentially make an impact at the major league level.

The New York Yankees have bolstered their 40-man roster by selecting infielder Caleb Durbin and catcher/infielder/outfielder Jesus Rodriguez, protecting them from the upcoming Rule 5 draft. Additionally, the Yankees have announced the return of right-hander Carson Coleman from the Texas Rangers. With these changes, the Yankees' roster now stands at 39 players.

Caleb Durbin, who will turn 25 in February, joined the Yankees from the Atlanta Braves in a December 2022 trade involving Lucas Luetge. Since then, Durbin has demonstrated strong performance across multiple minor league levels. Over 697 plate appearances, he has maintained a .287/.391/.440 batting line, with an 11.3% walk rate and an impressive 8.3% strikeout rate. Durbin's offensive consistency and his ability to steal 67 bases in 79 attempts have made him a valuable asset. His versatility allows him to cover all three infield positions, excluding first base, and also play in the outfield.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone has high expectations for Durbin, indicating that he could play a significant role in the upcoming season. With Gleyber Torres entering free agency, the second base position is open, and Durbin could either secure a regular spot, serve as a utility player, or provide depth from the minors.

Jesus Rodriguez, 22, is further from making his major league debut but has shown great promise in the minors. With 1,168 plate appearances, Rodriguez has posted a .311/.397/.477 line, achieving a 143 wRC+ by striking out just 14.3% of the time while walking at a robust 11.6% rate. Rodriguez's versatility extends beyond catching, as he has also played left field and various infield positions. Although he needs more seasoning in the minors, his potential warranted protection from the Rule 5 draft.

Carson Coleman returns to the Yankees after being selected by the Rangers in the 2023 Rule 5 draft. Coleman spent all of the 2024 season on the injured list following Tommy John surgery. The Rangers, unable to activate him, decided to return him, avoiding the Rule 5 restrictions for the upcoming season. The Yankees now have the flexibility to reintegrate Coleman without the immediate need for a 40-man roster spot.

​These roster moves underline the Yankees' strategy to safeguard their emerging talents while preparing for the future. As Durbin and Rodriguez continue their development, fans can anticipate their potential contributions to the major league team.

The Baltimore Orioles have strengthened their roster by adding right-handers Kade Strowd and Brandon Young, ensuring they are protected from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. This move brings the Orioles' 40-man roster count to 39.

Kade Strowd, a 27-year-old right-hander, was a 12th-round pick by the Orioles in 2019. Over the past two years, Strowd has recorded 106 2/3 innings in the minors, posting a 5.32 ERA. Known for his strikeout ability and ground ball tendencies, he has an impressive 28.4% strikeout rate, although his 12.3% walk rate is a concern. Despite this, his potential to get grounders on more than half of balls in play makes him a valuable asset.

Brandon Young, 26, signed with the Orioles as an undrafted free agent in 2020. He faced challenges with elbow surgery that sidelined him for parts of 2022 and 2023 but rebounded this year. Young pitched 111 innings across 27 appearances in Double-A and Triple-A, achieving a combined 3.57 ERA. He impressed with a 28.5% strikeout rate and a commendable 8% walk rate.

Both Strowd and Young have reached Triple-A, providing immediate depth for the Orioles in 2025. Strowd is expected to bolster the bullpen, while Young could play a key role in the starting rotation. The Orioles' starting staff recently lost Corbin Burnes to free agency, and with Kyle Bradish and Tyler Wells starting the season on the injured list, these additions are timely.

By securing Strowd and Young, the Orioles aim to retain their emerging talents and strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. These moves reflect the club's strategic planning as they continue to build a competitive team for the future.

​Fans will be eager to see how these players develop and contribute at the major league level.

The Los Angeles Angels made significant changes to their 40-man roster on Tuesday, designating outfielder Jordyn Adams and infielder Eric Wagaman for assignment. This move clears space for infielder Matthew Lugo and left-handed pitcher Jack Dashwood, protecting them from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft.

Jordyn Adams, 25, was the 17th overall pick in the 2018 draft and was highly regarded for his speed and power potential. However, his progress at the plate has been limited, with a .252/.333/.377 batting line over six minor league seasons. This year, he hit .261/.333/.386 in 549 Triple-A plate appearances, a performance considered below average in the Pacific Coast League. Adams has struggled in the majors, hitting .176 with a nearly 36% strikeout rate in 28 games over the last two seasons.

Eric Wagaman had a strong season in the upper minors after being selected from the Yankees organization in the minor league Rule 5 draft. He posted a .274/.339/.469 batting line between Double-A and Triple-A, which earned him a brief stint in the majors. As a 27-year-old rookie, Wagaman managed to hit two home runs with a .250/.270/.403 slash line in 18 games, but his lack of prospect status made it difficult for him to retain his roster spot.

Matthew Lugo, 23, is a former second-round pick of the Red Sox. After being overlooked in last year’s Rule 5 Draft, Lugo had a breakout season in the minors, hitting .287/.376/.578 with 17 home runs in 79 games across Double-A and Triple-A. Acquired in the deadline trade for veteran reliever Luis García, Lugo is now part of the Angels' future plans. With his impressive performance, Lugo could make his MLB debut as soon as next year.

Jack Dashwood, who recently turned 27, was a 12th-round pick out of UC Santa Barbara in 2019. Despite spending much of this season on the minor league injured list, Dashwood showcased his potential with a 15:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 10 Double-A innings and 17 strikeouts in 10 innings during the Arizona Fall League. The Angels were concerned that another team might leapfrog him to the majors, so they secured his roster spot. He is expected to start next year in the Triple-A bullpen.

​These roster adjustments highlight the Angels' strategy to develop and protect their emerging talents while navigating the complexities of maintaining a competitive and balanced team. Fans can look forward to seeing how Lugo and Dashwood contribute to the Angels' future success.

The San Francisco Giants have made key additions to their 40-man roster, selecting right-handed pitchers Carson Seymour and Carson Ragsdale to protect them from the upcoming Rule 5 draft. This move ensures that these promising talents remain with the organization.

To facilitate these additions, the Giants utilized their existing roster vacancy and created another by designating right-hander Kai-Wei Teng for assignment.

Carson Seymour:Seymour has shown considerable promise in the minors, known for his strong fastball and developing secondary pitches. His performance has made him a valuable asset for the Giants' pitching staff.

Carson Ragsdale:Ragsdale has been impressive with his ability to strike out batters and maintain control on the mound, positioning him as another potential future star for the Giants.

Impact of the MoveThe decision to add Seymour and Ragsdale highlights the Giants' commitment to nurturing their young talent and strengthening their roster for the future. At the same time, designating Kai-Wei Teng for assignment underscores the challenging decisions teams must make to balance their rosters.

​With these strategic roster changes, the Giants are poised to develop their promising young pitchers and enhance their depth as they look ahead to the coming seasons. Fans can look forward to seeing how these players progress and contribute at the major league level.

The Colorado Rockies have taken a significant step to protect one of their top prospects by adding outfielder Zac Veen to their 40-man roster ahead of the Rule 5 Draft. This brings the team's roster count to 39.

Veen, a left-handed batter and former ninth overall pick, has been highly regarded for his power potential since his high school days. Although his journey in the minors has been hampered by a left hand injury requiring surgery in 2023, Veen demonstrated a robust recovery this year. He posted a commendable .258/.346/.459 batting line, with 11 home runs in 65 games across four different levels, culminating in a promotion to Triple-A Albuquerque by the season's end.

At 22, soon to be 23, Veen may still need more time in the minors, but his major league debut is on the horizon. Ranked as the #7 prospect in the Rockies' system by Baseball America, Veen's stock might have dipped slightly from previous years, but his potential remains undeniable. The Rockies' decision to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft was a straightforward one, ensuring that this promising talent remains part of their future plans.

​The Rockies' move not only secures Veen's place in their system but also highlights their commitment to nurturing young talent as they look forward to strengthening their roster. Fans are eagerly anticipating Veen's progression and his eventual impact on the major league team.

The Cincinnati Reds have made strategic moves by adding Tyler Callihan and Luis Mey to their 40-man roster. This decision protects both players from the upcoming Rule 5 draft, bringing the team's roster count to 39.

​These additions reflect the Reds' commitment to nurturing young talent and ensuring depth for future seasons. Tyler Callihan, with his versatile fielding capabilities and impressive batting stats, along with Luis Mey's potential as a strong arm in the bullpen, signify promising developments for the team's lineup.

The Boston Red Sox are set to bolster their roster by adding two promising players just before the Rule 5 protection deadline. According to Christopher Smith ofMassLive.comand Alex Speier of The Boston Globe, the Red Sox will be selecting the contracts of right-handed pitcher Hunter Dobbins and outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia. These are the only additions planned, and the team will need to clear two spots on their 40-man roster to make these moves official.

Hunter Dobbins, 25, was selected by the Red Sox in the eighth round of the 2021 MLB Draft. Over the past season, Dobbins has made a significant impact by starting 21 games at the Double-A level and another four at Triple-A. He achieved a combined ERA of 3.08, with a 22.9% strikeout rate and a 9.2% walk rate. His impressive performance earned him the title of the organization's minor league starting pitcher of the season, and he is currently ranked 26th among the team's prospects by Baseball America. Dobbins brings a diverse pitching arsenal, including a fastball that averages 93-94 mph, along with a slider, splitter, and curveball.

The addition of Jhostynxon Garcia reflects the team's commitment to nurturing and protecting their up-and-coming talent. The Red Sox are keen on securing their young prospects' futures, especially as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.

​By making these strategic additions, the Red Sox aim to strengthen their roster depth and enhance their chances for success. Fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how these players develop and contribute at the major league level.

In a significant roster move, the Chicago Cubs are designating their former closer, Adbert Alzolay, for assignment, according to sources familiar with the situation who spoke to ESPN.

Alzolay, 29, is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent in August, and is not expected to return to the mound until late 2025. Over his six-year tenure with the Cubs, the veteran right-hander made 27 starts and saved 27 games. He had taken on the role of closer for much of the past two seasons but struggled in 2024, ultimately losing his job before getting injured.

Throughout his career with the Cubs, Alzolay compiled a 12-25 record with a 4.04 ERA. His standout season came in 2023, where he successfully saved 22 games while maintaining an impressive 2.67 ERA over 64 innings. Initially, Alzolay began as a starter for the Cubs as recently as 2021 but found greater success when transitioned to the bullpen.

This decision clears a spot on the Cubs' 40-man roster, though the team will remain responsible for the cost of Alzolay's rehabilitation unless he is picked up by another team.

​The move highlights the ongoing adjustments and strategic decisions within the Cubs' organization as they aim to build a competitive roster for future seasons.

The Tampa Bay Rays' plans for a new stadium have hit a major roadblock due to a combination of severe hurricane damage to Tropicana Field and political delays in financing. The team announced on Tuesday that it is highly unlikely the new stadium will be ready for the 2028 season, if at all.

In a letter to the Pinellas County Commission, Rays top executives revealed that the team has already invested $50 million in early work on the proposed $1.3 billion ballpark. However, progress has stalled due to delays in the approval of bonds for the public share of the costs. The letter, signed by co-presidents Brian Auld and Matt Silverman, expressed the organization's disappointment and frustration with the situation. They noted that the overall project had previously received approval from both the County Commission and the City of St. Petersburg.

"As we have made clear at every step of this process, a 2029 ballpark delivery would result in significantly higher costs that we are not able to absorb alone," the letter stated.

The series of unfortunate events began when Hurricane Milton tore the roof off Tropicana Field on October 9, forcing the Rays to play the 2025 season at the New York Yankees' spring training home, the 11,000-seat Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Subsequently, the Pinellas County Commission postponed a planned vote on the bond issue on October 29, further disrupting the timeline for the new 30,000-seat ballpark. Although the commission was set to meet again on Tuesday to discuss the bond issue, its chair suggested that a vote could be delayed once more.

"We know we're going to be in Steinbrenner in 2025 and we don't know much beyond that," Auld said in an interview.

When asked about the long-term viability of Major League Baseball in the Tampa Bay area, Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg admitted that the outlook is "less rosy than it was three weeks ago." He emphasized the team's commitment to keeping the Rays in the area, despite the challenges they have faced over the past 20 years.

The team's contract with the city of St. Petersburg requires them to play three more seasons at Tropicana Field, assuming it can be repaired. The cost of fixing the ballpark in time for the 2026 season is estimated at over $55 million, despite plans to demolish the building once the new facility is ready.

Under the original plan, Pinellas County would contribute approximately $312.5 million towards the new ballpark, while the city of St. Petersburg would invest around $417 million, including infrastructure improvements. The Rays and their partner, the Hines development company, would cover the remaining costs, including any overruns.

The new Rays ballpark is part of a larger urban renovation project known as the Historic Gas Plant District. This project aims to transform an 86-acre tract in downtown St. Petersburg, which was previously home to a predominantly Black neighborhood displaced by the construction of Tropicana Field and an interstate highway spur. The broader $6.5 billion project includes plans for a Black history museum, affordable housing, a hotel, green space, entertainment venues, and office and retail space, promising thousands of jobs in the coming years.

​The future of the Rays' new stadium remains uncertain, but the team and its partners are determined to navigate these challenges and bring their vision to life.

In the latest twist in the Juan Soto sweepstakes, the Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as a potential contender for the star outfielder. According to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, the Phillies are planning to meet with Soto, although a date for the meeting has yet to be scheduled.

Soto, who has already met with the Blue Jays, Red Sox, Mets, and incumbent Yankees, is set to meet with the Dodgers next. Despite the flurry of meetings, Heyman reports that no formal offers have been made to Soto thus far.

The Phillies, known for having one of the most complete rosters in Major League Baseball, are keen on improving further after their 2024 campaign ended in the National League Division Series. With a history of splurging on top talent, Philadelphia's roster boasts big names like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, Zack Wheeler, J.T. Realmuto, Aaron Nola, Nick Castellanos, and Kyle Schwarber, all of whom were acquired via lucrative free agency deals.

Phillies managing partner and CEO John Middleton recently commented on Soto's market, acknowledging that while the outfielder may prefer a move to New York, Philadelphia could still enter the bidding war. Middleton referred to the Phillies' potential involvement as a "stalking horse," indicating their strategic interest in acquiring Soto.

​As the offseason progresses, the baseball world will be watching closely to see where Juan Soto ultimately lands, and the Phillies' pursuit adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing saga

The future of star outfielder Juan Soto appears to be leaning towards a move to one of New York's two baseball teams. According to industry insiders, a fierce bidding war between the Yankees and Mets is expected to determine Soto's next destination.

ESPN New York's Michael Kay has suggested that Mets owner Steve Cohen is prepared to make a "Godfather offer" to lure Soto away from the Yankees. This aggressive approach could involve a contract exceeding $700 million, a figure that might be too steep for the Yankees, who are mindful of luxury tax implications.

While the Yankees have the advantage of familiarity, the Mets' deep pockets and Cohen's willingness to spend could sway Soto's decision. The Mets' recent playoff run and Cohen's commitment to building a championship team could further enhance their appeal to the talented outfielder.

​As the offseason progresses, fans eagerly await the outcome of this high-stakes free agency battle. The future of one of baseball's brightest stars hangs in the balance, and the stakes have never been higher.

The New York Mets have added some depth to their pitching staff, signing right-handed pitcher Justin Hagenman to a one-year major league contract.

Hagenman, 28, spent the 2024 season with the Worcester Red Sox, the Triple-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. He posted a 4-6 record with a 4.91 ERA in 28 games (15 starts). Despite the ERA, Hagenman showcased improved performance, particularly with his newly added sweeper pitch.

The right-hander has spent his entire six-year professional career in the minor leagues, accumulating a 3.87 ERA and striking out 9.3 batters per nine innings.

Hagenman's signing provides the Mets with additional pitching depth, especially as they head into the offseason with uncertainty surrounding their rotation.

The New York Yankees have added two experienced players to their minor league system, signing infielder Pablo Reyes and right-hander Cristian Hernandez to minor league deals.

Reyes, a versatile infielder, has bounced around the league in recent years. He had a strong 2021 season with the Boston Red Sox, but struggled to replicate that success in 2022 with the New York Mets' Triple-A affiliate. Known for his defensive prowess, Reyes can play multiple positions on the field.

Hernandez, a 24-year-old right-hander, has spent his entire career in the Philadelphia Phillies organization. He has primarily been a reliever, but he could potentially transition to a swingman role in the future. Hernandez has shown promise in the minor leagues, posting solid numbers in Double-A.

​These signings provide the Yankees with additional depth options for their minor league system. While neither player is expected to make an immediate impact on the major league roster, they could contribute at the Triple-A level or potentially be called up in case of injuries or underperformance.

Left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea has officially declined the New York Mets' one-year, $21.05 million qualifying offer. This decision was widely anticipated, as Manaea is expected to pursue a longer-term deal on the open market.

By rejecting the qualifying offer, Manaea will become a free agent. The Mets will receive draft-pick compensation if he signs with another team.

Manaea enjoyed a strong 2024 season with the Mets, posting a 3.47 ERA and a 1.084 WHIP in 32 starts. His performance was particularly impressive in the second half of the season, where he posted a 3.09 ERA over his final 12 starts.

The 32-year-old lefty also made a significant impact in the playoffs, pitching to a 2.65 ERA in 17 innings over his first three postseason appearances. While he struggled in Game 6 of the NLCS against the Dodgers, his overall playoff performance solidified his value as a top-tier starting pitcher.

​As Manaea enters free agency, he is likely to generate significant interest from multiple teams. With his strong track record and recent postseason success, he is poised to command a lucrative multi-year contract.