Fantasy Baseball News


 

  • RHP Maeda says 'gut feeling' led to him to Tigers

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    New Detroit Tigers pitcher Kenta Maeda spoke with local media on Thursday. "I want to bring a championship ring to Detroit," he said.

    Dec 1 · ESPN Detroit Tigers Kenta Maeda

  • Orioles Have Shown Interest In Josh Hader, Jordan Hicks

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    At the GM Meetings earlier this month, Baltimore general manager Mike Elias told reporters the team was seeking a late-game reliever. They’re considering plugging that vacancy in free agency. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that the O’s have been in contact with each of Josh Hader, Jordan Hicks, Craig Kimbrel and Aroldis Chapman. All…

    Dec 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Baltimore Orioles Josh Hader Jordan Hicks

  • Pirates Release Thomas Hatch To Pursue Overseas Opportunity

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    The Pirates have released right-hander Thomas Hatch, as reflected on the MLB.com transaction log. A Korean-language report from IS Plus suggested Hatch had received interest from teams in both NPB and the KBO and is likely to sign with the Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan. Hatch had occupied a spot on Pittsburgh’s 40-man roster. His release will…

    Dec 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Pittsburgh Pirates Thomas Hatch David Phelps

  • NPB's Hanshin Tigers Sign Javy Guerra, Re-Sign Sheldon Neuse

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    The Hanshin Tigers of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball announced this week that they’ve signed right-hander Javy Guerra for the 2024 season (Japanese language link via Yahoo Japan). Hanshin has also re-signed infielder Sheldon Neuse and right-hander Jeremy Beasley, per the team’s web site. It’ll be the second season with the Tigers for both former big…

    Dec 1 · MLB Trade Rumors Javy Guerra Sheldon Neuse

  • Giants Re-Sign Thomas Szapucki To Minor League Deal

    The Giants have re-signed left-hander Thomas Szapucki to a minor league deal, per his transactions tracker at MLB.com. The club had just non-tendered him a couple of weeks ago. He’s been assigned to Triple-A Sacramento for the time being. Szapucki, now 27, didn’t pitch in any official capacity in 2023. He experienced some elbow discomfort…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors San Francisco Giants Thomas Szapucki

  • Marlins Sign Kyle Tyler To Minor League Deal

    The Marlins have signed right-hander Kyle Tyler to a minor league deal, reports Robert Murray of FanSided. The righty, who is represented by Nello Gamberdino, will receive an invitation to major league Spring Training. Tyler, 27 in December, spent 2023 with the Mariners on a minor league deal. He made 27 Double-A appearances on the…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Miami Marlins Kyle Tyler

  • Thomas Szapucki Returns To Giants On Minor-League Deal

    The San Francisco Giants re-signed left-hander Thomas Szapucki to a minor-league deal after non-tendering him on Nov. 17. Szapucki had thoracic outlet surgery in May and hasn't pitched in a competitive setting since 2022 due to his shoulder injury. The 27-year-old southpaw appeared in 12 major-league games (one start) in 2021 and 2022 with the New York Mets and Giants, allowing 18 earned runs on 26 hits (eight home runs) while walking 10 and striking out 22 in just 13 2/3 innings. Shoulder injuries like his are pretty unpredictable, so Szapucki may not be ready health-wise to open the 2024 minor-league season.

    Nov 30 · Source via San Francisco Giants Thomas Szapucki

  • Mets Sign Austin Adams To Major League Deal

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    The Mets have signed right-hander Austin Adams to a one-year, major league deal, per a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. Per Will Sammon of The Athletic, it’s a non-guaranteed split contract, meaning Adams will earn different salaries if he’s in the majors or in the minors. Adams, 33 in May, started the 2023 season…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Mets Austin L. Adams

  • Giants Re-Sign Jose Cruz

    The San Francisco Giants have re-signed right-hander Jose Cruz to a minor-league deal after non-tendering him on Nov. 17. The 23-year-old Dominican pitcher spent time with High-A Eugene and Double-A Richmond in the Giants' farm system in 2023, combining to go 0-2 with a 4.47 ERA, 1.38 WHIP, five saves, 38 walks and 67 strikeouts in 44 1/3 innings over 36 appearances out of the bullpen. Cruz will continue to toil in the minors to open the 2024 season with the Giants. In five minor-league seasons, he's recorded a 3.90 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 114 walks and 271 strikeouts in 198 1/3 innings covering 127 appearances (only three starts).

    Nov 30 · Source via San Francisco Giants

  • Matt McLain Fully Healed

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    Cincinnati Reds infielder Matt McLain (oblique) said his right-oblique injury is fully healed. "Things are going good. I started to swing, no problems. Lifting, no problems," McLain said. The 24-year-old was having an excellent rookie season in 2023 for the upstart Reds before his season came to an end prematurely at the tail end of the year when he was put on the injured list in late August. McLain resumed baseball activities at the tail end of the regular season in September and should have a pretty normal offseason as long as he doesn't suffer any setbacks. He'll be a popular middle-infield target in 2024 fantasy drafts after he hit . 290/.357/.507 with an .864 OPS, 16 home runs, 50 RBI, 14 stolen bases and 65 runs scored for the Reds in 365 at-bats.

    Nov 30 · Source via Prospects Cincinnati Reds Matt McLain

  • White Sox Outright Nicholas Padilla; Adam Haseley Elects Free Agency

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    The White Sox passed right-hander Nicholas Padilla through waivers unclaimed and have assigned him outright to Triple-A Charlotte, per Scott Merkin of MLB.com. He adds that outfielder Adam Haseley, who was designated for assignment earlier this week, cleared waivers and elected free agency. Chicago’s 40-man roster is currently at 39 players. Padilla, 26, pitched 4…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Adam Haseley Nicholas Padilla

  • Teams Interested In Edward Cabrera, Trevor Rogers

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    MLB teams have shown interest in Miami Marlins right-hander Edward Cabrera and left-hander Trevor Rogers this offseason, according to sources briefed on the Marlins' conversations. Cabrera missed a month with a right-shoulder impingement in 2023 and spent more than a month at Triple-A. In the big leagues, he posted a 4.24 ERA in 99 2/3 frames. The 26-year-old Rogers didn't pitch after April 19 due to a left-biceps strain and then a partial tear in his right lat. Left-handers Jesus Luzardo and Braxton Garrett are likely off limits for the Fish. Texas Rangers infielder Ezequiel Duran is the kind of player Miami would want in return for Cabrera, but the Rangers may not be willing to part with Duran, who was valuable as an injury replacement at shortstop and third base for the World Series-champion Rangers.

    Nov 30 · Source via Miami Marlins Edward Cabrera Trevor Rogers

  • White Sox Likely To Wait To Deal Dylan Cease

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    Chicago White Sox new general manager Chris Getz is telling teams he will likely wait to move right-hander Dylan Cease until after the top free-agent starting pitchers sign this offseason, according to major-league sources briefed on the discussions. The urgency of certain teams will only increase if they miss out on top free-agent pitching names like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell and others. The Los Angeles Dodgers need multiple starters, and the St. Louis Cardinals remain interested in Cease, even after already signing Sonny Gray, Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn. The Cincinnati Reds and Baltimore Orioles could be sleepers to trade for Cease, who is 28 years old and still under club control for two more years.

    Nov 30 · Source via Chicago White Sox Dylan Cease

  • Kyle Tyler Signs Minors Deal With Marlins

    Free-agent right-hander Kyle Tyler signed a minor-league deal with the Miami Marlins on Thursday that includes an invitation to spring training, according to a source. Tyler has previously pitched for the Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Padres and has a 2.20 ERA in 16 1/3 career big-league innings. He lasted pitched in the majors in 2022 with the Padres and threw four shutout innings in two relief appearances while walking one and striking out two. Tyler spent all of the 2023 campaign at Double-A Arkansas in the Seattle Mariners organization. The 26-year-old had a 5.60 ERA there with a 1.59 WHIP, 58 walks and a career-high 138 strikeouts in 135 innings over 27 outings (26 starts). Tyler will represent minor-league pitching depth for the Fish heading into next season.

    Nov 30 · Source via Miami Marlins Kyle Tyler

  • Austin Adams Signs One-Year Deal With Mets

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    Free-agent right-hander Austin Adams signed a one-year, major-league deal with the New York Mets on Thursday, according to a source. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Adams' 2023 season was cut short due to a fractured right ankle that he suffered in early August. The 32-year-old reliever wasn't all that good for the Arizona Diamondbacks before the injury, though, with a 5.71 ERA (3.72 FIP) and 1.38 WHIP with eight walks and 22 strikeouts in 17 1/3 innings pitched over 24 appearances out of the bullpen. Adams is a seven-year big-league veteran with stops in Washington, Seattle and San Diego before pitching for the Snakes in 2023. He has a career 4.17 ERA and 1.29 WHIP with 75 walks and 170 strikeouts in 114 1/3 innings since 2017. Adams will be battling for a relief role with the Mets in spring training in 2024.

    Nov 30 · Source via New York Mets Austin L. Adams

  • Shohei Ohtani Wins Most Outstanding Designated Hitter Award

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    For the third straight season, two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani was named the Edgar Martinez Outstanding Designated Hitter award. In addition to the DH award, Ohtani was the American League Most Valuable Player in 2023 for the second time in the last three years. The three-time All-Star was more impressive this past season at the plate than on the mound, slashing .304/.412/.654 with a 1.066 OPS, 44 home runs, 26 doubles, eight triples, 95 RBI, 20 stolen bases and 102 runs scored in 135 games for the Los Angeles Angels. The Japanese star led the league in homers, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, OPS and total bases. Even though the 29-year-old won't pitch at all in 2024 after having surgery on his right elbow, he is the most attractive player on the free-agent market and is expected to receive a deal worth around $500 million.

    Nov 30 · Source via Los Angeles Angels Shohei Ohtani

  • White Sox Sign Wynton Bernard To Minor League Deal

    The White Sox have signed outfielder Wynton Bernard to a minor league deal, according to his transactions tracker at MLB.com. He’s been assigned to Triple-A Charlotte for now but may get an invitation to major league Spring Training. Bernard, now 33, has a small amount of major league experience, having played 12 games for the…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Wynton Bernard

  • Cardinals Interested In Dylan Cease

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    The St. Louis Cardinals are showing interest in trading for White Sox right-hander Dylan Cease. Rumors surrounding a Cease trade have intensified over the last 24 hours and it is believed a trade could get done sooner than later. The Cardinals' interest is intriguing as they have already made significant rotation splashes this winter with the additions of free agent right-handers Sonny Gray, Lance Lynn, and Kyle Gibson as they completely re-make their starting rotation. Cease was the AL Cy Young runner-up in 2022 when he tossed a 2.20 ERA across 32 starts but he took a step back in 2023, working to a 4.58 ERA across 33 outings. Nonetheless, the 27-year-old takes the ball every fifth day, boasts big-time strikeout numbers, and is under club control through the 2025 campaign.

    Nov 30 · Source via Chicago White Sox St. Louis Cardinals Dylan Cease

  • Cubs Have Held Trade Talks On Tyler Glasnow

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    The Chicago Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays have held trade talks in regards to Rays right-hander Tyler Glasnow. With a $25 million salary for the 2024 season incoming for the big right-hander, the low-budget Rays are almost certain to trade him this offseason with several teams, not surprisingly, interested in his services. Of course, health issues are the biggest red flag when it comes to Glasnow. His 21 starts in 2023 represented a career-high but he has still started just 60 games since becoming a full-time Ray in the 2019 season. He's been money when healthy, however, as is coming off a 3.53 ERA and big-time 25.8% K-BB last season and sports a career 21.2% K-BB%. He has posted a SIERA of 3.18 or better every season since the 2019 campaign.

    Nov 30 · Source via Tampa Bay Rays Tyler Glasnow

  • Wynton Bernard Inks Minors Pact With White Sox

    The Chicago White Sox and minor-league outfielder Wynton Bernard have agreed to a minor-league pact for the 2024 season. The well-traveled Bernard has appeared in 1,010 minor-league games in a professional career that began in the 2012 season but he finally got the call to the big leagues when he played in 12 games with the Rockies in the 2022 season. He hit a respectable .286 in 42 plate appearances with the Rockies that season but most recently hit .329 with eight homers, 26 stolen bases, and an .872 OPS across 66 games with Triple-A Albuquerque last season. The 33-year-old is a career .291 hitter in the minors with 65 home runs, although 32 in the last two seasons, and 265 stolen bases in 3.472 at-bats.

    Nov 30 · Source via Chicago White Sox Wynton Bernard

  • Brewers Expected To Extend Jackson Chourio

    The Brewers and top outfield prospect Jackson Chourio are close on a contract extension, per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. Jon Heyman of the New York Post adds that the deal is expected to get done today with a guarantee of eight years and nearly $80MM along with two club options. Earlier reporting had indicated…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Milwaukee Brewers Jackson Chourio

  • Jackson Stephens Signs One-Year Deal With Braves

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    The Atlanta Braves and right-hander Jackson Stephens have agreed to a one-year, non-guaranteed split contract for the 2024 season. The club outrighted Stephens off of their 40-man roster earlier in the month but have brought him back on a non-guaranteed deal after he worked five appearances out of their bullpen in September. The 29-year-old worked to a solid 3.00 ERA in those 12 innings before elbow inflammation claimed the remainder of his season. While it's unclear if he will be ready to go for spring training, Stephens owns a respectable 4.19 ERA across 80 big-league appearances between the Reds and Braves, so a flyer low-risk flyer makes sense in this situation.

    Nov 30 · Source via Atlanta Braves Jackson Stephens

  • Jackson Chourio Inks Historic Deal With Brewers

    The Milwaukee Brewers and outfield prospect Jackson Chourio have agreed on a historic eight-year, $80 million deal, the richest contract for a player who has yet to play a game in the big leagues. The deal includes two team options. Just 19 years of age, Chourio has played just six games above the Double-A level as he hit .280 with 22 home runs and 43 stolen bases across 122 games at Double-A in 2023 before hitting .333 with one steal across six games at the Triple-A level. The low-budget Brewers are making a bet that they will be paying a star player just $10 million annually shortly into the contract while the young outfielder nets some financial security. He could be in line for his big-league debut at just 20 years of age in 2024 and is certainly a dynasty league gem at this point.

    Nov 30 · Source via Prospects Milwaukee Brewers Jackson Chourio

  • Penn Murfee Signs One-Year Deal With Braves

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    The Atlanta Braves and right-hander Penn Murfee have agreed to a one-year, non-guaranteed split contract for the 2024 season. The Braves scooped Murfee off waivers from the New York Mets two weeks ago, the second time he was claimed on waivers this offseason after the Mets originally claimed him from the Seattle Mariners. The 29-year-old spent the 2023 season with the Mariners, tossing a 1.29 ERA, albeit alongside a 4.64 SIERA, across 16 appearances before elbow issues ended his season in June. Certainly, Murfee is worth a flyer considering he has worked to a 2.70 ERA across 80 MLB appearances but a UCL procedure in June could cost him significant time in the 2024 campaign.

    Nov 30 · Source via Atlanta Braves Penn Murfee

  • Jackson Chourio, Brewers Expected To Complete Record-Breaking Deal

    Milwaukee Brewers top center field prospect Jackson Chourio is expected to complete a deal on Thursday that will be the richest contract ever for a player who has yet to reach the big leagues. The deal is expected to be for eight guaranteed years and close to $80 million and include two team options. The deal will top Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert Jr.'s six-year, $50 million deal. The 19-year-old Chourio is the second-ranked prospect this offseason in all of baseball, behind only shortstop Jackson Holliday of the Baltimore Orioles. This contract likely means that Chourio will be in Milwaukee's Opening Day lineup in 2024 after he slashed a strong .283/.338/.467 with an .805 OPS, 22 home runs 26 doubles, three triples, 91 RBI, 44 stolen bases and 88 runs in 128 games with Double-A Biloxi and Triple-A Nashville in 2023.

    Nov 30 · Source via Prospects Milwaukee Brewers Jackson Chourio

  • Reds, Nick Martinez Agree To Two-Year Deal

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    The Reds are in agreement with Nick Martinez on a two-year, $26MM guarantee, reports Jeff Passan of ESPN (X link). The deal allows the right-hander to opt out after the first season. Yusseff Diaz of Pelota Cubana first reported that Martinez, a client of the Boras Corporation, was signing with Cincinnati. Martinez, 33, has spent…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Cincinnati Reds Nick Martinez

  • Mets, Joey Wendle Agree To Major League Deal

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    A few hours after agreeing to terms with Luis Severino, the Mets have added infield depth. New York is reportedly in agreement with Joey Wendle on a one-year, $2MM guarantee. The deal also contains performance bonuses for the Excel Sports Management client. Wendle, 34 next April, has spent the last two years in the NL East…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Mets Joey Wendle

  • Luis Severino, Mets Agree To One-Year Deal

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    The Mets are reportedly in agreement with free agent starter Luis Severino on a one-year, $13MM guarantee. The deal also includes $2MM in performance bonuses, the details of which are not publicly known. Severino is represented by Rep 1 Baseball. Severino, 30 in February, is a wild card of this winter’s free agent market. He…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Mets Luis Severino

  • Reds To Sign Emilio Pagan

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    The Reds are reportedly in agreement with free agent reliever Emilio Pagan on a two-year, $16MM guarantee. The deal consists of matching $8MM salaries and allows Pagan, a client of the Ballengee Group, to opt out after next season. It’s a strong deal for the righty, as the contract contains incentives to boost the total…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Cincinnati Reds Emilio Pagan

  • Latest On Dylan Cease

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    The White Sox have discussed Dylan Cease trades with teams since the offseason got underway. It seems they’ve gained some amount of traction, as Jon Morosi of MLB.com tweets that talks have “intensified” this week. Morosi suggests the ChiSox may pull the trigger on a deal prior to the Winter Meetings, which begin Sunday evening. USA…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Dylan Cease

  • Braves Sign Penn Murfee, Jackson Stephens To Major League Deals

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    The Braves announced the signings of relievers Penn Murfee and Jackson Stephens to one-year split deals. A split contract means the player would be paid at differing rates for time spent in the majors versus Triple-A. Both pitchers rejoin Atlanta’s 40-man roster. The team still has seven openings on the 40-man on the heels of…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Penn Murfee Jackson Stephens

  • Guardians, Jaime Barria Agree To Minor League Deal

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    The Guardians are in agreement with right-hander Jaime Barria on a minor league contract, reports Ken Rosenthal of the Athletic (on X). The former Angels hurler elected free agency after clearing outright waivers last month. Until that point, Barria had spent his entire career with the Halos. He signed out of Panama in 2013 and reached…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Cleveland Guardians Jaime Barria

  • Dodgers Showing Interest In Seth Lugo

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    The Dodgers are among numerous teams that have shown interest in free agent hurler Seth Lugo, reports Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 (on X). Alexander indicates that upwards of two-thirds of the league has checked in with Lugo’s camp, aligning with a recent report from FanSided’s Robert Murray that more than half the teams were involved.…

    Nov 30 · MLB Trade Rumors Los Angeles Dodgers Seth Lugo

  • Jaime Barria Agrees With Guardians On Minor-League Deal

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    Free-agent right-hander Jaime Barria agreed with the Cleveland Guardians on a minor-league deal on Wednesday, according to sources. Barria spent his first six big-league seasons with the Los Angeles Angels and was granted free agency in October. The 27-year-old will receive an invite to major-league spring training next year. In his six seasons with the Angels, Barria appeared in 134 games (62 starts) and recorded a 4.38 ERA (5.08 FIP) and 1.32 WHIP with a 7.7 percent walk rate and weak 17.9 percent strikeout rate in 462 2/3 innings. He had a career-best 2.61 ERA in 2022 for the Halos before dropping significantly this past season with a 5.68 ERA. If Barria makes it to the big leagues for Cleveland, it will likely be in a middle-relief role.

    Nov 30 · Source via Cleveland Guardians Jaime Barria

  • Joey Wendle Agrees With Mets

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    Free-agent utility infielder Joey Wendle and the New York Mets agreed on a one-year, $2 million deal on Wednesday, pending a physical, according to sources familiar with the deal. Wendle was an All-Star with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2021 before spending the last two years with the Miami Marlins. But he's only a career .263 hitter with 32 home runs in eight big-league seasons, and his worst season came in 2023 when he hit .212/.248/.306 with two home runs, 20 RBI, 16 doubles, seven stolen bases and 33 runs scored in 112 games played for the Fish. The 33-year-old left-handed hitter stands at 6-foot-1 and 195 pounds and will mainly serve the Mets with his glove and defensive versatility for the upcoming 2024 campaign.

    Nov 30 · Source via New York Mets Joey Wendle

  • Royals Sign Garrett Hampson

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    The Royals announced that they have signed infielder/outfielder Garrett Hampson to a one-year contract. Hampson will make a salary of $2MM, per Jeff Passan of ESPN. Hampson, 29, spent the 2023 season with the Marlins in a utility capacity. He got into 98 games and stepped to the plate 252 times, striking out at a…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Kansas City Royals Garrett Hampson

  • Looking For A Match In A Corbin Burnes Trade

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    Of all the names that figure to populate the trade market this offseason, there’s perhaps no starting pitcher more intriguing than former National League Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes. As far as trade options go, Burnes is any team’s best shot at adding a bona fide front-of-the-rotation starter whose salary is in just about any…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Milwaukee Brewers Corbin Burnes

  • The Best Fits For A Juan Soto Trade

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    There’s no bigger name on the trade front than Juan Soto. The superstar outfielder topped MLBTR’s list of the Top 25 offseason trade candidates a few weeks ago. He’s one season from free agency on a Padres team that is reportedly planning to cut payroll. MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz projects Soto for a record $33MM salary…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors San Diego Padres Juan Soto

  • Devin Williams Wins NL Reliever Of The Year Award

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    Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams was named the 2023 Trevor Hoffman National League Reliever of the Year. It's the second time Williams has won the award after back-to-back lights-out seasons coming out of Milwaukee's bullpen. He had only 15 saves in 2022 but was the Brew Crew's unquestioned closer this year. The 29-year-old hard-throwing right-hander finished his fifth major-league season with an 8-3 record, 1.53 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 87 strikeouts and career-high 36 saves in 58 2/3 innings over 61 appearances in relief. Williams has proven the last two years that he is an elite fantasy closer with his swing-and-miss stuff.

    Nov 29 · Source via Closers Milwaukee Brewers Devin Williams

  • Felix Bautista Named AL Reliever Of The Year

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    Baltimore Orioles closer Felix Bautista has been named the 2023 Mariano Rivera American League Reliever of the Year. It's a bittersweet honor for Bautista, who wasn't able to finish out the season and needed Tommy John surgery on a partially torn UCL in his right elbow. Injury aside, Bautista was a big reason why the Orioles took home the AL East title in 2023. The 28-year-old Dominican right-hander was dominant out of Baltimore's bullpen with an 8-2 record, 1.48 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 110 strikeouts and 33 saves in 61 innings pitched in just his second major-league season. Bautista has a bright future ahead of him, but he will most likely miss all of the 2024 campaign while he recovers from Tommy John surgery.

    Nov 29 · Source via Closers Baltimore Orioles Felix Bautista

  • Dodgers To Hire Nelson Cruz As Advisor

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    The Dodgers are hiring Nelson Cruz as an advisor, per a report from Tenchy Rodriguez of Z101. This was confirmed by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, who adds that Cruz will be working for the organization in Latin America. Cruz, 43, recently retired after spending almost two decades as one of the most potent sluggers…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Los Angeles Dodgers Nelson Cruz

  • Mets, Luis Severino Finalizing One-Year Deal

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    The New York Mets and free-agent right-hander Luis Severino are finalizing a one-year, $13 million deal on Wednesday, according to sources familiar with the deal. The 29-year-old will join a Mets starting rotation in serious need of reinforcements after he spent eight years pitching for the New York Yankees. Severino didn't exactly live up to the high expectations when he initially joined the Yankees, mainly due to various injuries. He wasn't very good in his final season in the Bronx with a 6.65 ERA in only 89 1/3 innings, and his season ended prematurely due to a high-grade oblique strain. Severino should be fully healthy by the start of spring training in 2024, though, and he will be locked into their starting rotation to begin the year.

    Nov 29 · Source via New York Mets Luis Severino

  • A's Sign Armando Alvarez, Drew Lugbauer

    The Oakland Athletics signed corner infielders Armando Alvarez and Drew Lugbauer to minor-league deals on Wednesday that includes non-roster invitations to major-league spring training next year. Alvarez, 29, hit an impressive .308 (80-for-260) with 18 home runs, 56 RBI, eight steals and 51 runs scored in 74 games for Triple-A Sacramento in the San Francisco Giants organization in 2023. He has the ability to play both third base and first base. Lugbauer, 27, is a left-handed-hitting first baseman was even more impressive in the minors with the Atlanta Braves last season, clubbing 25 home runs and driving in 73 runs in 94 games with Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett. Both players will be fighting to get to the big leagues for the first time in their careers with the rebuilding A's in 2024.

    Nov 29 · Source via Oakland Athletics

  • Hendriks, Bellinger win comeback player awards

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    Reliever Liam Hendriks and outfielder Cody Bellinger were selected Major League Baseball's Comeback Players of the Year on Tuesday. Both players are free agents.

    Nov 29 · ESPN Closers Cody Bellinger Liam Hendriks

  • Yankees The Best Fit For Juan Soto?

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    It seems increasingly likely that the San Diego Padres will trade All-Star outfielder Juan Soto this winter, and MLB.com's Mike Petriello believes the New York Yankees are the best fit. He also lists the Blue Jays, Giants, Cubs and Mets as solid fits for the left-handed slugger. Yankee Stadium is clearly built for left-handed hitters, and last year's roster had the third-weakest lefty hitting in baseball. The Yankees are definitely looking for a middle-of-the-order hitter this offseason who can provide Aaron Judge with some protection, and Soto would be just that. New York can also afford to sign Soto to a long-term extension before he becomes a free agent after the 2024 season.

    Nov 29 · Source via San Diego Padres New York Yankees Aaron Judge Juan Soto

  • Shohei Ohtani Expected To Sign Before End Of Winter Meetings

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    The "prevailing opinion" is that free-agent two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will sign with a team before the winter meetings end on Dec. 6, according to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman. "I'm thinking he may sign at the Winter Meetings, which would be very, very exciting," Heyman said. "That seems to be the prevailing opinion at this point. No guarantee. [Executives] think that Ohtani will be the big signing at the Winter Meetings." The Dodgers, Giants and Cubs are among the teams reportedly in the mix for the Japanese superstar, but the Blue Jays and Red Sox are also candidates to sign him. The 29-year-old is expected to command a deal around $500 million on the open market, even though he won't be able to pitch at all in 2024 after having surgery on his right elbow this year.

    Nov 29 · Source via Shohei Ohtani

  • Royals Sign Garrett Hampson To One-Year Deal

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    The Kansas City Royals signed free-agent infielder/outfielder Garrett Hampson to a one-year, $2 million deal on Wednesday, according to sources. Hampson hit the open market this offseason after he was non-tendered by the Miami Marlins. The 29-year-old utility man saw action at shortstop, second base, third base and all over the outfield in 2023 for the Fish and was productive at the plate as well, slashing .276/.349/.380 with three home runs, 12 doubles, a triple, 23 RBI, five stolen bases and 30 runs scored in 98 games played in his first year away from Colorado. Hampson isn't an everyday player at the big-league level, but he could have a shot to play even more in 2024 with the rebuilding Royals. Hampson has only 29 career home runs with a .241 batting average in six seasons in the majors.

    Nov 29 · Source via Kansas City Royals Garrett Hampson

  • Trade Talks For Dylan Cease Have Intensified

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    Trade talks for Chicago White Sox right-hander Dylan Cease have intensified in the last 48 hours, and some people close to the negotiations believe a deal before next week's winter meetings is increasingly possible, according to sources. Cease's hometown Atlanta Braves are among the finalists, and we also know that the Los Angeles Dodgers are very serious about him as they look for starting-pitching upgrades this winter. The 27-year-old was the runner-up in American League Cy Young voting in 2022 but took a step back this past season by going 7-9 with a 4.58 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with 214 strikeouts and a career-high 79 walks in 33 starts (177 innings). Cease can be wild, but his strikeout upside is enticing and he's under club control through the 2025 season.

    Nov 29 · Source via Chicago White Sox Dylan Cease

  • Erick Fedde Weighing Interest From KBO, MLB Clubs

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    Former Nationals first-round pick and top prospect Erick Fedde just wrapped up a dominant season with the Korea Baseball Organization’s NC Dinos, which saw the 30-year-old righty take home league MVP honors in his first season overseas. He’s unsurprisingly drawn MLB interest on the heels of that performance, but Fedde will have to weigh that…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Erick Fedde

  • Randy Arozarena Being Shopped By Rays

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    Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena is reportedly being shopped by the club and there's a good chance he will indeed be moved. The 28-year-old still has three seasons of club control attached to him and he is arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason. Certainly, the Rays would get a haul for the star outfielder given his friendly contract status and massive production at the plate. He hit .254 with 23 home runs and 22 stolen bases across 151 games in 2023, his third straight 20-HR, 20-SB campaign. For his career, Arozarena has hit .264 with 71 homers and 80 stolen bases across 487 games played. He has been remarkably consistent since bursting onto the scene with the Rays in the shortened 2020 campaign.

    Nov 29 · Source via Tampa Bay Rays Randy Arozarena

  • Tigers Remain Interested In Starting Pitching

    Headshot for Kenta Maeda

    The Detroit Tigers remain in the market for additional starting pitching, even after finalizing a two-year, $24 million contract with veteran right-hander Kenta Maeda on Tuesday. The Tigers currently sit with a projected rotation of Tarik Skubal, Maeda, Casey Mize, Matt Manning, and one of Reese Olson or Sawyer Gipson-Long at the moment but are seemingly looking to add another arm, whether it be an impact arm near the top of the rotation or a depth piece at the bottom. Mize is coming off of Tommy John surgery that wiped out his 2023 season, Manning broke his foot twice last season, and Olson and Gipson-Long have just 22 big-league starts between them, so a veteran arm capable of taking the ball every fifth day continues to make sense for Detroit.

    Nov 29 · Source via Prospects Detroit Tigers Sawyer Gipson-Long Kenta Maeda Matt Manning Casey Mize Reese Olson Tarik Skubal

  • Bo Bichette Likely Staying Put

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    Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette likely won't be on the move this offseason despite rumors swirling that he could be traded. Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins spoke with the media on Wednesday and seemingly confirmed he is not interested in trading his shortstop. "He's a really good player, we're very fortunate to have him and he's our shortstop," Atkins said. Just 25, Bichette is under club control for two more seasons while he's been among the best pure hitters in the game since debuting in 2019. Bichette is a career .299 hitter with 89 home runs and 51 stolen bases across 528 big-league games. He hit .306 with 20 HR, five SB, and an .814 OPS across 135 games in the 2023 season while his bat has been at least 20% superior to the league average in all five of his seasons, according to wRC+.

    Nov 29 · Source via Toronto Blue Jays Bo Bichette

  • Erick Fedde Receiving KBO, MLB Interest

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    Free agent pitcher Erick Fedde is weighing offers from clubs from both the KBO and MLB. It was reported earlier in the month MLB clubs were showing interest in Fedde who recently was named the KBO's MVP after a dominant season with the NC Dinos while the club is reportedly ready to put its best foot forward to bring the right-hander back for at least one more season. Fedde worked to a tidy 2.30 ERA across 30 starts with the Dinos in 2023, striking out 209 across 180 1/3 innings while going 20-6 on the campaign. A former first-round pick of the Nationals, Fedde owns a career 5.41 ERA in parts of six seasons in the big leagues but saw massive improvements in both his strikeout and walk rates in his lone season overseas to this point.

    Nov 29 · Source via Erick Fedde

  • Brewers Making Progress On Extension Talks With Top Prospect Jackson Chourio

    Nov. 29: The two parties are gaining momentum on what would indeed be a record-setting contract extension, reports Curt Hogg of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Hogg suggests a framework in the eight-year, $80MM range could be in play, with multiple options and a presumably healthy slate of incentives also coming into play. The two sides have been…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Milwaukee Brewers Jackson Chourio

  • Emilio Pagan Agrees To Two-Year Pact With Reds

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    Free-agent reliever Emilio Pagan and the Cincinnati Reds agreed to a two-year, $16 million contract on Wednesday. The pact comes with a player option after the first year as well as a buyout and incentives. The right-hander spent the last two seasons with the Twins but earned his contract with a stout 2.99 ERA across 66 appearances and 69 1/3 innings of work in the 2023 season. A seven-year veteran, Pagan owns a career 3.71 ERA across 369 career appearances while locking down 32 saves in that time. He has posted a pair of sub-3.00 ERA campaigns in his career but also worked to a 4.43 ERA or worse from 2020-2022.

    Nov 29 · Source via Cincinnati Reds Emilio Pagan

  • Details On Sonny Gray, Kyle Gibson Contracts

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    The Cardinals finalized their three-year, $75MM contract with Sonny Gray yesterday. It came with a club option for the 2027 season which reports had pegged at $30MM with a $5MM buyout. That deal is heavily backloaded. As reported by the Associated Press, Gray is set for a modest $10MM salary in 2024. He’ll make $25MM in…

    Nov 29 · MLB Trade Rumors St. Louis Cardinals Kyle Gibson Sonny Gray

  • Dodgers Among Most Aggressive Teams For Dylan Cease

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    The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reported Tuesday that more than a dozen teams have inquired about Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Dylan Cease, but the Los Angeles Dodgers are "among the most aggressive." The Dodgers' current starting rotation contains some young, exciting players but is much shallower than it has been in some time. They also have a strong farm system, making them a seemingly suitable match to trade for 27-year-old Cease, who can be retained through salary arbitration for two more seasons. Cease took a step back in 2023, going 7-9 with a 4.58 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, and 27.3% strikeout rate over 33 starts and 177 innings pitched. However, he owns a 3.83 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, and 28.1% strikeout rate over the course of his career, and moving to any competitive team will boost his fantasy value.

    Nov 29 · Source via Chicago White Sox Dylan Cease

  • Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto Above All Other Options For Giants

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    MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported Tuesday that acquiring one of free-agent two-way star Shohei Ohtani and top free-agent starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto is a priority "above all other options this offseason" for the San Francisco Giants. The Giants had a disappointing 2023 season, finishing in fourth place in the National League West with a 79-83 record. Either player would be a significant boost for the team, who have been linked to a number of high-profile players over the last few seasons but have been unsuccessful in bringing them in. From a fantasy perspective, Oracle Park is a pitcher-friendly venue. However, both players should be fantasy priorities wherever they sign.

    Nov 29 · Source via Prospects San Francisco Giants Shohei Ohtani Yoshinobu Yamamoto

  • Juan Soto Almost Certain To Be Traded

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    The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reported Tuesday that San Diego Padres superstar outfielder Juan Soto is "almost certain to be traded" this offseason. Rosenthal cited the team's current payroll issues and lack of pitching as reasons for a trade. The 25-year-old is entering his final year of team control and is projected to make $33 million in arbitration, per MLB Trade Rumors. Soto had a nice bounce-back offensive 2023 season, slashing .275/.410/.519with 35 home runs, 109 RBI, and 12 stolen bases. He now owns a career .284/.421/.524 slash line over six seasons, so he would likely command a huge return should the Padres decide to trade him. Soto will remain a top fantasy option regardless of the team he plays for.

    Nov 29 · Source via San Diego Padres Juan Soto

  • Cody Bellinger Earns NL Comeback Player Of The Year Award

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    Free-agent first baseman/outfielder Cody Bellinger was named the 2023 National League Comeback Player of the Year Tuesday. After winning the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year Award and the 2019 NL MVP, the 28-year-old struggled mightily offensively through the 2020 through 2022 seasons. However, he looked like his old self in 2023 with the Cubs, slashing .307/.356/.525 with 26 home runs, 97 RBI, and 20 stolen bases. He will now likely be rewarded further with a lucrative contract this offseason, and his landing spot could impact his projected fantasy value. Regardless of where he ends up, it will be interesting to see how much fantasy managers trust him to repeat his 2023 performance.

    Nov 29 · Source via Cody Bellinger

  • Liam Hendriks Earns AL Comeback Player Of The Year Award

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    Free-agent relief pitcher Liam Hendriks (elbow) was named the 2023 American League Comeback Player of the Year Tuesday. The recognition was very fitting for the 34-year-old, who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma last December but went into remission and made five appearances during the 2023 season in May and June with the White Sox. Unfortunately, Hendriks was shortly shut down with right elbow inflammation and underwent Tommy John surgery. While Hendriks has stated that he is determined to return to pitching in 2024, he will likely miss at least a good portion of the season, severely limiting his fantasy outlook.

    Nov 29 · Source via Closers Liam Hendriks

  • Brewers Discussing Deal With Top Prospect Jackson Chourio

    The Milwaukee Brewers are talking with top outfield prospect Jackson Chourio about a landmark contract that could influence the direction of their offseason and the makeup of their 2024 roster, according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal. Chourio has played just six games above Double-A, and a new deal would establish a new standard for players with no major-league experience who already were under team control. His deal would be longer and guarantee him more money than the six-year, $50 million deal that outfielder Luis Robert Jr. signed with the Chicago White Sox in January of 2020. Chourio doesn't turn 20 until March 11 but is already widely considered one of the two top prospects in the game alongside Orioles shortstop Jackson Holliday. If a deal is struck, it would likely ensure that Chourio would be in Milwaukee's Opening Day lineup in 2024.

    Nov 28 · Source via Prospects Milwaukee Brewers Jackson Chourio

  • Brewers Agree To Minor League Deals With Easton McGee, Brewer Hicklen

    The Brewers have signed right-hander Easton McGee and all-too-appropriately-named outfielder Brewer Hicklen to minor league contracts, reports Adam McCalvy of MLB.com. They’ll both be in major league camp during spring training, though McGee won’t be pitching, as he’ll still be rehabbing from last May’s Tommy John surgery. McCalvy further adds that McGee’s minor league deal…

    Nov 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Milwaukee Brewers Brewer Hicklen Easton McGee

  • White Sox Designate Adam Haseley For Assignment

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    The White Sox announced Tuesday that they’ve designated outfielder Adam Haseley for assignment. His spot on the 40-man roster will go to infielder Paul DeJong, whose previously reported one-year deal has now been confirmed by the team. Chicago’s 40-man roster remains at capacity. Haseley, 27, was the eighth overall selection in the 2017 draft by…

    Nov 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Paul DeJong Adam Haseley

  • KBO's SSG Landers Sign Robert Dugger

    The SSG Landers of the Korea Baseball Organization announced Tuesday that they’ve signed right-hander Robert Dugger to a one-year deal worth $750K (link via Jee-ho Yoo of the Yonhap News Agency). He can earn another $150K via incentives. Dugger, 28, logged MLB time each season from 2019-22, compiling a total of 86 2/3 innings between…

    Nov 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Robert Dugger

  • Reds, Cubs Have Discussed Shane Bieber With Guardians

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    Former American League Cy Young winner Shane Bieber is a year from reaching the open market, and the Guardians have discussed potential trade scenarios involving the 28-year-old righty with the Cubs and Reds, Jon Morosi of MLB.com reports. Other clubs have surely reached out on Bieber’s potential availability as well, and Morosi notes that the…

    Nov 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Cincinnati Reds Cleveland Guardians Chicago Cubs Shane Bieber

  • Jose Ruiz Latches On With Phillies On Minors Deal

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    The Philadelphia Phillies have signed right-hander Jose Ruiz to a minor-league deal. Ruiz's deal includes an invitation to major-league spring training camp in 2024. The 29-year-old Venezuelan comes to the Phillies with seven years of major-league experience with the San Diego Padres, Chicago White Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks. He appeared in 38 games (one start) for Chicago and Arizona in 2023 and had a 5.89 ERA (6.26 FIP) and 1.65 WHIP with 21 walks and 39 strikeouts in 44 1/3 innings while surrendering 10 home runs. Ruiz will likely open the 2024 season in the minors for the Phillies as relief depth. He has a 4.51 ERA (4.85 FIP) and 1.49 WHIP in 219 1/3 major-league innings across seven seasons.

    Nov 28 · Source via Philadelphia Phillies Jose Ruiz

  • Marlins Add Ignacio Feliz On Minor-League Deal

    The Miami Marlins have signed right-hander Ignacio Feliz to a minor-league deal. Feliz has yet to make his major-league debut and was let go at the end of the 2023 season by the Baltimore Orioles after struggling to a 9.57 ERA and 1.77 WHIP while walking 23 and striking out 59 in 42 1/3 innings over 28 relief appearances at High-A Aberdeen and Double-A Bowie. The 24-year-old Dominican hurler has struggled to find his footing in six minor-league seasons, posting a 4.63 ERA and 1.40 WHIP while walking 198 and striking out 413 in 354 innings over 111 appearances (54 starts). Feliz will most likely spent all of the 2024 season on the farm in the Marlins system.

    Nov 28 · Source via Miami Marlins

  • Mark Payton Signs Minors Deal With White Sox

    Free-agent outfielder Mark Payton has signed a minor-league deal with the Chicago White Sox. Payton comes back to the United States after playing for the Seibu Lions of the Korean Baseball Organization in 2023. The 31-year-old has played in only 40 games in the major leagues with the Cincinnati Reds and White Sox in parts of three seasons from 2020-22. He played in only eight games for the White Sox in 2022 and went 3-for-21 with an RBI and three runs scored. In 69 total plate appearances in the majors, Payton has gone 10-for-61 (.164) with no home runs, a double, one RBI, one stolen base and five runs scored. Payton will represent minor-league depth for the rebuilding White Sox entering the 2024 season.

    Nov 28 · Source via Chicago White Sox Mark Payton

  • White Sox Designate Adam Haseley For Assignment

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    The Chicago White Sox designated outfielder Adam Haseley for assignment on Tuesday to make room for recently signed infielder Paul DeJong on the 40-man roster. Haseley hit .222/.282/.278 with no home runs, two doubles, two RBI, one stolen base and six runs scored in only 28 games played for the White Sox in his second year in Chicago. The 27-year-old left-handed hitter also underwhelmed in 72 games for Triple-A Charlotte down on the farm. In his five major-league seasons (three with the Philadelphia Phillies), Haseley has slashed .259/.319/.356 with only five home runs (all in his rookie season in 2019), 43 RBI, five stolen bases and 49 runs scored in 158 games played.

    Nov 28 · Source via Chicago White Sox Adam Haseley

  • A's Sign Hoy Park To Minor-League Deal

    The Oakland Athletics signed infielder Hoy Park to a minor-league deal on Monday. Park spent all of the 2023 season at Triple-A Gwinnett in the Atlanta Braves organization and hit .262/.385/.379 with six home runs, 15 doubles, two triples, 42 RBI, 16 stolen bases and 49 runs scored in 101 games played. The 27-year-old South Korean left-handed hitter played with the New York Yankees and Pittsburgh Pirates in 2021 and 2022 and hit .201 (36-for-179) with five homers and 20 RBI in 68 games played. Park will mostly likely begin the 2024 campaign at Triple-A Las Vegas, but he has as good a chance as any to resurface in the majors at some point next season with the rebuilding A's.

    Nov 28 · Source via Oakland Athletics Hoy Jun Park

  • Brewers Sign Easton McGee To Minors Deal

    The Milwaukee Brewers signed right-hander Easton McGee (elbow) and outfielder Brewer Hicklen to minor-league deals on Tuesday that include invitations to major-league spring training camp next year. McGee's deal is a two-year contract. McGee had Tommy John surgery in May and is unlikely to be ready to pitch in 2024 until around midseason. The 25-year-old former fourth-round pick by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2016 made his major-league debut with the Rays in 2022 and made just one appearance. He resurfaced with the Seattle Mariners at the big-league level this year and tossed 6 2/3 shutout innings while walking one and striking out two in one start.

    Nov 28 · Source via Milwaukee Brewers Brewer Hicklen Easton McGee

  • Cubs In Trade Talks For Tyler Glasnow

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    The Chicago Cubs are among the teams active in trade conversations for Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Tyler Glasnow, according to sources. The Cincinnati Reds are also involved. The frugal Rays are ready to let someone else take Glasnow off their hands with one year of team control remaining at $25 million. Glasnow can be one of the better starting pitchers in baseball when he's healthy and he misses plenty of bats, but he hasn't exactly been the perfect picture of health. The 30-year-old would be a big upgrade for the Cubs' starting rotation in 2024 and beyond, though, and he likely wouldn't require a huge prospect package in return in a trade with Tampa.

    Nov 28 · Source via Tampa Bay Rays Chicago Cubs Tyler Glasnow

  • Cubs, Reds Looking At Shane Bieber

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    The Chicago Cubs and Cincinnati Reds are among the teams active in trade conversations for Cleveland Guardians right-hander Shane Bieber, according to sources. There are limited options available for starting arms on the open market this winter, so the Cubs and Reds are looking for trade options. Bieber, 28, is still on the right side of 30, although he's coming off a year in which he was limited to 21 starts due to injury. Still, he was solid with a 6-6 record, 3.80 ERA (3.87 FIP) and 1.23 WHIP with 34 walks and 107 strikeouts in 128 innings pitched. Bieber would require a nice prospect haul, though, and it's unclear how willing the Cubs are to part with some of their big prospect names. The Reds, meanwhile, have a logjam of young talent at the major-league level.

    Nov 28 · Source via Cleveland Guardians Chicago Cubs Cincinnati Reds Shane Bieber

  • White Sox, Mark Payton Agree To Minor League Contract

    The White Sox have signed outfielder Mark Payton to a minor league contract, according to the transaction tracker at MLB.com. It’s the second such stint for the Illinois native. Payton also spent the 2022 campaign with the Sox. He appeared in eight big league contests, spending the remainder of the year at Triple-A Charlotte. The University…

    Nov 28 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Mark Payton

  • Jason Heyward Reportedly Re-Signs With Dodgers Monday

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    Free-agent outfielder Jason Heyward and the Los Angeles Dodgers reportedly agreed to a one-year, $9 million deal Monday, per MLB.com's Juan Toribio. The deal is pending a physical and the club has not confirmed the agreement. The 34-year-old veteran had a resurgent offensive 2023 season with the Dodgers, slashing .269/.340/.473 with 15 home runs and 40 RBI in 377 plate appearances. He also provided veteran leadership in the clubhouse. While Heyward will still likely not have an everyday role, his newfound power in a strong Dodgers lineup could make him a useful daily fantasy play at times.

    Nov 28 · Source via Los Angeles Dodgers Jason Heyward

  • Dodgers Interested In Lucas Giolito This Offseason

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    FanSided's Robert Murray says that the Los Angeles Dodgers have interest in free-agent right-hander Lucas Giolito this offseason as they look for starting-rotation depth heading into the 2024 campaign. Walker Buehler missed all of 2023 while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, and Clayton Kershaw (shoulder) is a free agent and is expected to miss around half the season. Giolito, 29, started last season with the Chicago White Sox before being traded to the Los Angeles Angles and then claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Guardians. It was a second straight down year for the right-handed hurler with a 4.88 ERA (5.27 FIP) and 1.31 WHIP overall, but he was an All-Star in 2019 and was in the AL Cy Young running from 2019-21.

    Nov 27 · Source via Los Angeles Dodgers Walker Buehler Lucas Giolito Clayton Kershaw

  • Shoto Imanaga Officially Posted

    DeNA Baystars left-hander Shoto Imanaga of Nippon Professional Baseball in Japan was officially posted for major-league teams on Monday. He will be eligible to meet with MLB teams once the league approves his posting. The 30-year-old southpaw will then have 45 days to agree to a deal with a team in the United States. He won't be as popular as fellow Japanese start Yoshinobu Yamamoto, but Imanaga is viewed as a potential middle-of-the-rotation arm for major-league teams this winter. Imanaga had a strong 2.66 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, 24 walks and 188 strikeouts in 159 innings for the Baystars this year. He is expected to receive a deal of around four or five years in length this offseason.

    Nov 27 · Source via Prospects Shota Imanaga

  • Yoshinobu Yamamoto To Begin Meeting With Teams Next Week

    Highly coveted Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto will begin meeting with interested teams via phone and Zoom next week, according to two league sources briefed on his free-agency process. Yamamoto is a target of the New York Yankees, New York Mets and many other clubs after he was posted by the Orix Buffaloes of Nippon Professional Baseball last Monday. He plans to narrow down his list of teams before then returning to the United States to meet with his finalists in person after the winter meetings, which will take place from Dec. 4-7. Yamamoto has until Jan. 4 to sign with a team, but it is not expected to require that much time. He's intrigued with the idea of playing in the Bronx but is also particularly close to Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida and Padres pitcher Yu Darvish.

    Nov 27 · Source via Prospects Yoshinobu Yamamoto

  • Robert Stephenson Drawing Heavy Interest On Open Market

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    Free-agent right-hander Robert Stephenson has been one of the most popular free-agent relievers this offseason, according to sources. Stephenson had a 0.678 WHIP in 42 appearances for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2023 and is drawing interest from the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Angels, among other clubs. The 30-year-old former first-round pick has an underwhelming career 4.64 ERA and 1.34 WHIP in eight big-league seasons, but he also has a 25.9 percent strikeout rate and looked pretty dominant as a late-inning reliever for the Rays this past season. Depending on where he lands, he could be a sneaky high-leverage fantasy reliever in 2024 in leagues that reward points for holds.

    Nov 27 · Source via Closers Robert Stephenson

  • Steven Matz Available Via Trade

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    The St. Louis Cardinals have made teams interested in adding starting pitching this offseason aware that left-hander Steven Matz is available via trade, according to sources. Matz signed a four-year, $44 million deal with the Cardinals before the 2022 season. It comes after St. Louis has already added right-handers Sonny Gray, Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn to their starting rotation via free agency this offseason. The Cardinals are also interested in Japanese starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto, so moving Matz would free up a spot for him. The 32-year-old southpaw was better in 2023 than he was in his first year in St. Louis, going 4-7 with a 3.86 ERA (3.75 FIP) and 1.33 WHIP with 32 walks and 98 strikeouts in 105 innings over 25 outings (17 starts).

    Nov 27 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Steven Matz

  • Ryan Jensen Claimed By Marlins

    The Miami Marlins have claimed relief pitcher Ryan Jensen off waivers from the Seattle Mariners. The right-hander was designated for assignment by the Mariners following their acquisitions of Carlos Vargas and Seby Zavala in a trade with the D-backs for Eugenio Suarez last week. The recently-turned 26-year-old has largely pitched in the Cubs' organization in his professional career and worked to a 6.10 ERA in 16 appearances with Triple-A Iowa before turning it around and posting a 3.18 ERA in 13 appearances with Triple-A Tacoma in the Seattle organization last season. As a result of his increased performance and young age, it's no surprise to see a club scoop him up in the hopes he can continue to excel in the 2024 campaign.

    Nov 27 · Source via Miami Marlins Ryan Jensen

  • Andrew Velasquez Re-Signed By Braves

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    The Atlanta Braves have re-signed shortstop Andrew Velazquez to a minor-league contract roughly three weeks after outrighting him off the 40-man roster. The 29-year-old spent much of the last two seasons in the Angels' organization but was waived and subsequently claimed by the Braves last season. Very much a glove-first shortstop, Velazquez has struggled mightily at the plate in the big leagues as he's a .189 career hitter with 12 home runs and 40 stolen bases across 624 trips to the plate, production that grades out 52% below the league average, as per his 48 wRC+. He will likely serve as Triple-A depth with the club as he did following his waiver claim last season.

    Nov 27 · Source via Atlanta Braves Andrew Velazquez

  • Ben Bowden Inks Minors Deal With Braves

    The Atlanta Braves have signed left-handed pitcher Ben Bowden to a minor-league contract. The 29-year-old spent the 2023 season pitching at Triple-A in the Phillies' organization, working to a 4.64 ERA across 49 relief outings, notching five saves in the process. He has largely pitched in the Rockies' organization in his professional career before bouncing around of late. He logged 39 MLB appearances with the Rockies in the 2021 season, working to a 6.56 ERA with unhealthy walk and ground-ball rates in tow. His recent Triple-A results have been discouraging, as well, but he at least gives the Braves a left-handed relief option should he bounce back in the 2024 campaign.

    Nov 27 · Source via Atlanta Braves Ben Bowden

  • Reds Showing Interest In Tyler Glasnow

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    The Cincinnati Reds are showing interest in Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Tyler Glasnow, who is widely expected to be dealt by the club this offseason. Owed $25 million in 2024 before hitting the open market next offseason, the frugal Rays are likely to trade their prized hurler but are seeking MLB-ready starting pitching in return rather than taking in prospects. When healthy, Glasnow has been excellent with an ERA of 3.53 or better in four of the last five seasons, but he has made a total of only 60 starts in that time. His 21 starts and 120 innings of 3.53 ERA ball in 2023 mark the heaviest workload of his big-league career. Nonetheless, given his on-field production, the Rays will be able to get a sizeable return for the big right-hander.

    Nov 27 · Source via Tampa Bay Rays Cincinnati Reds Tyler Glasnow

  • Alex Bregman Could Be Moved This Offseason

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    Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman could be traded away this offseason, according to former MLB general manager Jim Duquette. The two-time All-Star is in the final season of his current five-year contract that carries an average annual value of $20 million, but it is believed the club will not be able to re-sign him given his Scott Boras representation and the fact the club could not retain Carlos Correa or George Springer when they hit the open market in recent offseasons. The 29-year-old is coming off another quality season that saw him hit .262 with 25 home runs, 103 runs, 98 RBI, and an .804 OPS across 161 appearances. The 2019 AL MVP runner-up is an excellent option at the hot corner in fantasy drafts next spring.

    Nov 27 · Source via Houston Astros Alex Bregman

  • Braves In Talks For Dylan Cease

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    The Atlanta Braves have joined the Los Angeles Dodgers and several other teams that are engaged in trade talks with the Chicago White Sox for ace Dylan Cease. The White Sox have made it very clear this offseason that they are willing to listen on trade talks for all of their players as they rebuild, and Cease has been one of the most popular names so far this winter. The 27-year-old right-hander saw his velocity decrease slightly in 2023 and he took a big step back from his excellent 2022 campaign when he went 14-8 with a 2.20 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. Cease went 7-9 in 2023 with a 4.58 ERA (3.72 FIP), 1.42 WHIP, 79 walks and 214 strikeouts in 177 innings over 33 starts. He has cleared 200 K's in each of the last three seasons, though, and could bounce back to his 2022 level if he can throw more strikes.

    Nov 27 · Source via Chicago White Sox Atlanta Braves Dylan Cease

  • Jason Heyward Close To Re-Signing With Dodgers

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    Free-agent outfielder Jason Heyward is nearing a one-year deal on Monday to re-sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers, according to a source. It makes sense for both sides, as Heyward had a resurgence in 2023 in LA, slashing .269/.340/.473 with an .813 OPS, 15 home runs, 23 doubles, 40 RBI, two stolen bases and 56 runs scored in 377 trips to the plate over 124 games for the Blue. The 34-year-old will hope to stay productive as a platoon option in right field against right-handed pitching for the Dodgers. The expectation is that Mookie Betts will continue to play more second base in 2024, and the return of Heyward only confirms that. Heyward has never had much power (career-high 27 home runs in 2012), but he can be a useful streaming bat in deeper fantasy leagues and DFS in a strong Dodgers lineup.

    Nov 27 · Source via Los Angeles Dodgers Jason Heyward

  • Sonny Gray, Cardinals Finalizing Three-Year Deal

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    Free-agent right-hander Sonny Gray and the St. Louis Cardinals are finalizing a three-year, $75 million deal on Monday, according to sources. Because Gray was given a qualifying offer from the Minnesota Twins, the Cardinals will have to give up a draft pick and international bonus pool money to land Gray on the open market. Still, for a team in desperate need of starters going into next season, landing the 34-year-old Cy Young runner-up in the American League in 2023 is worth it. Gray posted a strong 2.79 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with 183 strikeouts and 55 walks in 184 innings for the Twins this past season and should have a good chance to put up similar numbers in the National League Central in 2024. He joins Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn as recent additions to St. Louis' starting staff this offseason.

    Nov 27 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Sonny Gray

  • Cardinals "Expected" To Finalize Deal With Sonny Gray

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    The Cardinals are “expected” to finalize a deal with free agent right-hander Sonny Gray today, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The details of the contract are not currently known. More to come…

    Nov 27 · MLB Trade Rumors St. Louis Cardinals Sonny Gray

  • Tigers To Sign Kenta Maeda

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    The Tigers have added some experience to their young rotation, agreeing to sign right-hander Kenta Maeda to a two-year, $24MM contract.  Maeda will undergo his physical on Monday, so the deal should be officially announced within the next 24 hours.  Maeda is represented by the Boras Corporation. Reports emerged earlier this week linking Maeda and…

    Nov 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Kenta Maeda

  • Giants Re-Sign Cole Waites To Minor League Contract

    The Giants have brought back Cole Waites on a minor league contract, according to the team’s official transactions page.  Waites was non-tendered last week, and the new minor league pact means that the Giants won’t need to use a 40-man roster spot on the 25-year-old righty. Waites had Tommy John surgery in mid-September, making it…

    Nov 27 · MLB Trade Rumors San Francisco Giants Cole Waites

  • Angels Sign Adam Kolarek

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    The Angels announced (via their X feed) that they have signed left-hander Adam Kolarek to a one-year contract worth $900K.  Kolarek elected to become a free agent after finishing the season in the Braves’ minor league system. While $900K isn’t much by MLB standards, it is somewhat surprising that Kolarek landed a guaranteed deal at…

    Nov 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Los Angeles Angels Adam Kolarek

  • Reds Sign Reiver Sanmartin, Alex Blandino To Minor League Deals

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    The Reds signed left-hander Reiver Sanmartin and infielder Alex Blandino to minor league deals within the last week, according to Cincinnati’s official transactions page.  Sanmartin was assigned to Triple-A Louisville, while Blandino was assigned to Double-A Chattanooga. Sanmartin was cut loose by the Reds just prior to the non-tender deadline, and he’ll now return to…

    Nov 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Cincinnati Reds Alex Blandino Reiver Sanmartin

  • Tigers Re-Sign Garrett Hill

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    The Tigers and right-hander Garrett Hill have reunited, as Hill’s MLB.com profile page indicates that he signed a new minor league deal earlier this week.  It’s a quick reunion for the two sides, as the Tigers just non-tendered Hill last week to open up some space on their 40-man roster. A 26th-round pick for Detroit…

    Nov 27 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Garrett Hill

  • Braves Sign Andrew Velazquez, Ben Bowden To Minors Contracts

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    The Braves have signed infielder Andrew Velazquez, and left-hander Ben Bowden to minor league contracts, as per both players’ MLB.com profile pages.  For Velazquez, it’s a return to the organization, as he elected free agency after being outrighted off the Braves’ 40-man roster at the start of November. His trip through the market will now…

    Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Ben Bowden Andrew Velazquez

  • Red Sox Sign Wyatt Mills To Two-Year Minor League Deal

    The Red Sox have signed right-hander Wyatt Mills to a minor league contract covering both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, MassLive.com’s Chris Cotillo reports (X link).  The length of the deal reflects Mills’ health situation, as he underwent Tommy John surgery last July and may not pitch at all during the 2024 season. Mills has…

    Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Boston Red Sox Wyatt Mills

  • Angels Sign Charles Leblanc To Minor League Deal

    The Angels have signed infielder Charles Leblanc to a minor league deal, per the transaction tracker on MLB.com. It’s unclear if the deal includes an invite to spring training. Leblanc, 27, was a fourth-round pick by the Rangers in the 2016 draft. After spending six seasons at second and third base in Texas’s minor league…

    Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Los Angeles Angels Charles Leblanc

  • Kenta Maeda Agrees To Two-Year Deal With Tigers

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    Free-agent pitcher Kenta Maeda and the Detroit Tigers are in agreement on a two-year, $24 million contract. The right-hander will remain in the American League Central after spending the past four seasons with the Minnesota Twins, one of which was eliminated due to Tommy John surgery. Maeda returned from the UCL procedure to work to a 4.23 ERA across 21 outings (20 starts), but underlying numbers suggest he was better than his surface ERA may indicate. Maeda also posted a 3.76 SIERA and a 20.8% K-BB%, which is the second-best mark of his career and his top figure aside from his 28.2% mark posted in the COVID-shortened 2020 season. He will provide a veteran presence for a youthful Tigers rotation in the 2024 campaign.

    Nov 26 · Source via Detroit Tigers Kenta Maeda

  • Mariners Sign Rangel Ravelo To Minor League Deal

    The Mariners have reportedly signed first baseman Rangel Ravelo to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training, per reporter Francys Romero. Ravelo, 31, was a sixth-round pick by the White Sox in the 2010 draft. He made his major league debut with the Cardinals in 2019 and appeared in parts of two…

    Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Seattle Mariners Rangel Ravelo
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