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Fantasy Baseball News
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 ChourioJose Ruiz Latches On With Phillies On Minors Deal
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 RuizWhite Sox Designate Adam Haseley For Assignment
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 HaseleyCubs In Trade Talks For Tyler Glasnow
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 Tyler GlasnowCubs, Reds Looking At Shane Bieber
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 Shane BieberJason Heyward Reportedly Re-Signs With Dodgers Monday
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 HeywardRobert Stephenson Drawing Heavy Interest On Open Market
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 StephensonAndrew Velasquez Re-Signed By Braves
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 VelazquezBen 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 Ben BowdenReds Showing Interest In Tyler Glasnow
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 Tyler GlasnowBraves In Talks For Dylan Cease
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 Dylan CeaseJason Heyward Close To Re-Signing With Dodgers
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 Jason HeywardSonny Gray, Cardinals Finalizing Three-Year Deal
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 Sonny GrayCardinals "Expected" To Finalize Deal With Sonny Gray
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 GrayTigers To Sign Kenta Maeda
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 MaedaGiants 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 WaitesAngels Sign Adam Kolarek
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 KolarekReds Sign Reiver Sanmartin, Alex Blandino To Minor League Deals
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 SanmartinTigers Re-Sign Garrett Hill
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 HillBraves Sign Andrew Velazquez, Ben Bowden To Minors Contracts
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 VelazquezRed 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 MillsAngels 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 LeblancKenta Maeda Agrees To Two-Year Deal With Tigers
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 MaedaMariners 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 RaveloCam Booser Returning To Red Sox
Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Cam Booser has re-signed with the organization on Saturday. The two sides have agreed on a minor-league deal for the upcoming 2023 campaign. The expectation is that the left-hander will serve as extra bullpen depth for the Red Sox next season. He posted a 4.99 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 66/24 K/BB ratio across 57 2/3 innings (48 appearances) with Triple-A Worcester last season. He has yet to reach the majors, but figures to begin the season in Triple-A once again.
Nov 26 · Source via Boston Red Sox Cam BooserYariel Rodriguez Holds Private Workout
Free agent right-hander Yariel Rodriguez held a private workout for the San Diego Padres and Boston Red Sox on Saturday. The 26-year-old was officially declared a free agent in early November and granted his release from Japan. Rodriguez posted a 1.15 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and a 60/18 K/BB ratio over 54 2/3 innings for the Chunichi Dragons of Japan in 2022. He then sat out the 2023 campaign while on the restricted list. There have been nearly a dozen teams connected to Rodriguez this offseason. The expectation is that he'll get a lucrative multi-year deal later this offseason.
Nov 26 · Source via San Diego Padres Boston Red Sox Yariel RodriguezMariners Sign Rangel Ravelo To Minors Deal
The Seattle Mariners have agreed on a minor-league deal with first baseman Rangel Ravelo on Sunday. It's fair if baseball fans don't know his name as Ravelo hasn't played in the MLB since the 2020 season with the St. Louis Cardinals. After that, Ravelo went to Japan in order to reestablish his value. He signed a minor league deal with the San Diego Padres last season. Ravelo hit .310/.428/.473 with eight homers and 35 RBI across 203 plate appearances in the minors last season. He's expected to serve as depth to the Mariners roster. He'll receive an invite to spring training and will likely start the year in Double-A or Triple-A, assuming he makes the team.
Nov 26 · Source via Seattle Mariners Rangel RaveloAngels Sign Charles Leblanc
The Los Angeles Angels have agreed on a minor-league deal with infielder Charles Leblanc on Sunday. The 27-year-old got his first taste of MLB action with the Miami Marlins in 2022. He slashed .263/.320/.404 across 169 plate appearances with the Marlins. He spent last season in Triple-A Jacksonville hitting .252/.384/.423 with 12 homers and four stolen bases across nearly 400 plate appearances. Leblanc is nothing more than a depth signing for the Halos. He'll likely start the season in the minors and possibly come up if someone gets injured.
Nov 26 · Source via Los Angeles Angels Charles LeblancDetails On Yoshinobu Yamamoto's Plan For Free Agent Meetings
Right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto has been officially free to negotiate with MLB clubs since last Tuesday, when the Orix Buffaloes posted the star pitcher. The free agent courtship process looks to begin in earnest next week, as SNY’s Andy Martino reported on how Yamamoto and his representatives at Wasserman will approach the decision of picking the…
Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Yoshinobu YamamotoLooking For A Match In An Eloy Jimenez Trade
The White Sox appear likely to be among the most active teams on the trade market this offseason. On the heels of a 101-loss campaign that spurred a change in front office leadership, freshly-minted GM Chris Getz has made clear that the club is operating with no untouchables this offseason, a stance the club backed…
Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Eloy JimenezYariel Rodriguez Hosts Workout For Red Sox, Padres
Right-hander Yariel Rodriguez held a private workout today, per reporter Francys Romero. Romero adds that the Red Sox and Padres were the two teams with representatives in attendance to watch the righty, who threw two innings during the workout. Rodriguez, 27 in March, was declared a free agent by MLB earlier this month after he…
Nov 26 · MLB Trade Rumors Closers Boston Red Sox San Diego Padres Yariel RodriguezJohan Oviedo To Undergo Tommy John Surgery
Pirates right-hander Johan Oviedo was known to be undergoing tests for a serious arm injury, and the specifics of the injury are now known, as reporter Francys Romero (via X) writes that Oviedo will undergo Tommy John surgery. Oviedo will miss all of the 2024 season, but given the usual 12-14 months associated with recovery,…
Nov 25 · MLB Trade Rumors Pittsburgh Pirates Johan OviedoBlake Snell, Seattle Mariners Rumors Fly After Visit To Seahawks Game
A visit to Seattle as the special guest of the Seattle Seahawks has spiked rumors that the lefty starter and the Seattle Mariners could have mutual interest. Snell, a native of Washington that graduated from Seattle suburb Shoreline before being a first-round draft pick by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2011. He spent his first five MLB seasons with the Rays, winning the Cy Young for Tampa Bay in 2018. He's pitched the last three seasons for the San Diego Padres after a trade from the Rays.The 2023 season was an impressive one for Snell, as he posted a 14-9 record and 2.25 ERA over 180 innings, with 234 strikeouts, earning him his second career Cy Young Award. In his eight pro seasons, Snell, who will turn 31 in December, has won 71 games over 191 starts with a 3.20 ERA and 1,223 strikeouts over 992 2/3 innings.The 6'4" left-hander should have wide interest as one of the best pitchers in the market, but with a need in the rotation for Seattle and his continued residence in the Seattle area in the offseason make the Mariners a logical potential fit.
Nov 25 · Source via Seattle Mariners Blake SnellChicago Cubs Sign Edwin Escobar For Bullpen
Left-handed reliever Edwin Escobar will return to MLB with the Chicago Cubs. Details of the contract are not yet released, but Escobar has confirmed the transaction on his social media, and local reporting in Venezuela has also confirmed the signing. Escobar, a 6'2", 225-pound lefty, was once an elite prospect, ranked among the top 100 prospects in the game before the 2014 season. He had two brief cups of coffee in the major leagues with Boston in 2014 and Arizona in 2016, totaling 25 2/3 innings with a 7.01 ERA. Escobar has spent the past seven seasons in Japan in the NPB, putting together a strong 3.17 ERA and 1.19 WHIP pitching out of the bullpen, with 383 strikeouts over 392 1/3 innings. He will add depth to a Cubs bullpen currently headed by closer Adbert Alzolay. The newest Cub has deep family roots in MLB with father Jose Escobar a former Cleveland infielder and cousins Vicente Campos, Alcides Escobar, Kelvim Escobar, and Ronald Acuna, Jr. all having major league time.
Nov 25 · Source via Closers Chicago Cubs Edwin Escobar Adbert AlzolayTwins Interested In Kenta Maeda Reunion
TODAY: Negotiations between Maeda and the Tigers “have intensified in recent days,” according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi (X link). NOVEMBER 24: Free agent right-hander Kenta Maeda reportedly has “serious” interest from the Tigers but a reunion with the Twins is still possible. Jon Heyman of The New York Post reports that both the Tigers…
Nov 25 · MLB Trade Rumors Minnesota Twins Kenta MaedaJohan Oviedo To Undergo Tommy John Surgery
Pittsburgh Pirates Cuban right-hander Johan Oviedo (elbow) will undergo Tommy John surgery in the coming days, according to sources. Tommy John surgery was on the table for Oviedo once the 2023 season ended, and now it's become a reality that will knock him out for the entire 2024 season. The 25-year-old went 9-14 with a 4.31 ERA (4.49 FIP) and 1.37 WHIP while walking 83 and striking out a career-high 158 in a career-high 177 2/3 innings over 32 starts in his first full season in Pittsburgh in 2023. Oviedo wasn't really anything special from a fantasy perspective, but he was a useful innings-eater for a beleaguered Pirates starting rotation. In his four major-league seasons, Oviedo has a 4.32 ERA (4.57 FIP), 1.39 WHIP, a 10.8 percent walk rate and 19.6 percent strikeout rate in 320 2/3 innings over 72 appearances (58 starts).
Nov 25 · Source via Pittsburgh Pirates Johan OviedoJackie Bradley Jr. Expected To Retire
Free-agent outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr., who was one of the better defensive center fielders of his era, is expected to retire this offseason. Bradley played in 43 games for the Kansas City Royals in 2023 before being waived in June. In his 113 plate appearances, he went just 14-for-105 (.133) with a home run, five doubles, six RBI and 10 runs scored. The 33-year-old was an All-Star back in 2016 with the Boston Red Sox, when he slashed .267/.349/.486 with an .835 OPS, a career-high 26 home runs, 87 RBI and nine stolen bases in 156 games. Bradley won a Gold Glove in 2018 and will finish his 11 year big-league career with a .225 career batting average, 109 home runs, 449 RBI, 69 stolen bases and 514 runs scored in 1,181 career games with Boston, Kansas City, Toronto and Milwaukee if he indeed hangs up his cleats.
Nov 25 · Source via Jackie Bradley Jr.Yankees Still Interested In Frankie Montas
The New York Yankees remain interested in re-signing right-hander Frankie Montas this offseason. The Yankees are very much in the starting pitching market this winter and are also eyeing Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto and free-agent left-hander Jordan Montgomery, among others. The Yankees acquired Montas from the Oakland Athletics in the second half of the 2022 season, but he made just eight starts for them that year and required arthroscopic shoulder surgery. The 30-year-old then managed to pitch in one game in relief in 2023. New York must think Montas has the potential to return to his 2021 form with better health, when he went 13-9 with a 3.37 ERA and career-high 207 strikeouts in 187 innings (32 starts).
Nov 25 · Source via New York Yankees Frankie MontasRangers Interested In Reunion With Jordan Montgomery
Left-hander Jordan Montgomery figures to be among the most sought-after free agents on the starting pitching market this offseason. With righty Aaron Nola having already returned to the Phillies on a seven-year deal earlier this week, only recently-posted right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto and reigning NL Cy Young award winner Blake Snell compare rank ahead of Montgomery…
Nov 24 · MLB Trade Rumors Texas Rangers Jordan MontgomeryAnthony Rizzo Doing Great
New York Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo (concussion), who slumped in 2023 and then was shut down after suffering a concussion, is said to be doing "great" so far this offseason, according to his agent, Ryan Gleichowski. Rizzo expects to have a completely normal offseason after his 2023 campaign ended early on Sept. 12 when he was moved to the 60-day injured list. The 34-year-old veteran left-handed hitter finished with a .244/.328/.378 slash line with 12 home runs, 14 doubles, 41 RBI and 45 runs scored in 421 plate appearances and 99 games in his second full season in the Bronx. It came a season after he hit just .224 but with 32 home runs and 75 RBI in 130 games for the Bombers. He'll have bounce-back potential with better health in 2024 and expects to be a full-go for the start of spring training next year.
Nov 24 · Source via New York Yankees Anthony RizzoYankees Interested In Juan Soto, Jung-Hoo Lee
The New York Yankees are interested in trading for San Diego Padres outfielder Juan Soto and they have also inquired about Korean outfielder Jung-Hoo Lee, a two-way center fielder who is only 24 years old. However, Lee already has 20 teams after him despite not being posted by his Korean team yet. The Yankees like Cody Bellinger after his big bounce-back year with the Chicago Cubs, but some Yankees people are worried about his hard-hit rate. Still, Bellinger feels like the perfect fit as an excellent center fielder who bats left-handed and hit .306 after a couple years dealing with injuries in LA. The Yankees are trying to find another outfielder that can stay healthy and provide some middle-of-the-order protection for Aaron Judge in 2024 and beyond. Soto would require quite the prospect haul and would also require a massive long-term contract.
Nov 24 · Source via San Diego Padres New York Yankees Juan Soto Jung Hoo LeeAt Least Seven Teams Linked To Shohei Ohtani
As expected, there are no shortage of suitors for free-agent two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani this winter. At least the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants and Chicago Cubs are believed to be going big for Ohtani, while the San Diego Padres, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees are waiting and praying they'll have a chance to lock him up. Sources say that Ohtani loves southern California, which is why the Dodgers are considered the favorites. Most teams are presumed to only be able to afford one of Ohtani and Japanese star right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Ohtani should cost around $500 million and Yamamoto around $200 million. Ohtani will not be able to pitch at all in 2024 after having surgery on his right elbow, but he'll offer plenty of value with his bat from the left side of the plate after leading the league with 44 home runs, a .412 on-base percentage, .654 slugging percentage, a 1.066 OPS and 325 total bases in 2023.
Nov 24 · Source via Los Angeles Dodgers San Francisco Giants Chicago Cubs San Diego Padres Texas Rangers Boston Red Sox New York Yankees Shohei OhtaniJordan Montgomery Still On Rangers Radar
Starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery was a big piece of the Texas Rangers championship season, and they are hoping to bring him back for 2024 and beyond. With an ERA of 3.20 and an FIP of 3.56 in 2023 for the Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals, Montgomery should be on most teams' radar this offseason. The soon-to-be 31-year-old was a top-30 starting pitcher for fantasy purposes in 2022 and 2023, so he should be able to keep that pace for a couple more seasons at least. Montgomery has pitched at least 30 games in three straight seasons, and while his strikeout rate has decreased over that time, he's gotten better in the walk and ERA departments.
Nov 24 · Source via Texas Rangers Jordan MontgomeryJung-Hoo Lee To Be Posted In December
Korean outfielder Jung-Hoo Lee could be posted in early December after his medical records were sent from Lee's team, the Kiwoom Heroes, to the KBO on Nov. 22. The KBO will have to review them before sending them to the MLB, so it could take a week or so. Lee will be a hot name for teams this winter and should be popular come draft time for fantasy managers. Lee hasn't been a prodigious power hitter but will contribute in all offensive categories. A good contact hitter, his walk rate is also positive, making him even better in OBP leagues. Look for more to be relayed on Lee when he signs with an MLB team.
Nov 24 · Source via Jung Hoo LeeKenta Maeda Talks Have Intensified With Tigers
Starting pitcher Kenta Maeda has been in talks with the Detroit Tigers this week, and those talks have intensified over the last couple of days. Maeda signed an eight-year, $25 million contract with the Dodgers in 2016 that was full of incentives -- his first contract stateside. The Japanese-born pitcher will be 36 years old next season and will likely receive a one- or two-year contract toward the end of his career. Steamer projections have Maeda pitching in 24 games and finishing 2024 with a 4.15 ERA and 135 strikeouts in 132 innings pitched. Those numbers are similar to his 2023 stats, which means he'd be a good fantasy player in deeper leagues as rotation depth.
Nov 24 · Source via Detroit Tigers Kenta MaedaSeveral Teams Interested In Vladimir Gutierrez
Free agent right-hander Vladimir Gutierrez has several teams interested in him, reports Francys Romero. Gutierrez, now 28, was once a high-profile prospect that signed with the Reds after he defected from his native Cuba. The club gave him a bonus of $4.75MM but effectively had to pay double under the old bonus system, a 100%…
Nov 24 · MLB Trade Rumors Vladimir GutierrezMultiple Clubs Interested In Noah Syndergaard
Free agent right-hander Noah Syndergaard is reportedly drawing interest from multiple clubs. In an appearance on Foul Territory, Robert Murray of FanSided relayed that teams are looking at the righty as a bounceback candidate and hoping for a buy-low opportunity. It’s understandable why clubs would consider such a move but the reason that Syndergaard is…
Nov 24 · MLB Trade Rumors Noah SyndergaardTwins Interested In Kenta Maeda Reunion
The Minnesota Twins are interested in bringing back starting pitcher Kenta Maeda. The right-hander has spent the past three seasons in Minnesota, most recently working to a 4.23 ERA across 21 outings (20 starts) in the 2023 season. However, there's reason to believe he pitched better than his surface ERA might suggest as he also posted a 3.76 SIERA while his 20.8% K-BB% was the second-best mark of his MLB career and his best figure among non-COVID seasons as he put forth a 28.2% K-BB% in the shortened 2020 season when he finished second in AL Cy Young voting. The 35-year-old missed the 2022 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery but is garnering interest ahead of his second season back while the rival Detroit Tigers have also shown interest in the veteran.
Nov 24 · Source via Minnesota Twins Kenta MaedaMultiple Teams Interested In Noah Syndergaard
Free agent pitcher Noah Syndergaard is reportedly garnering interest from multiple teams on the open market. The right-hander had an adventurous and disappointing season in 2023 as he posted a 7.16 ERA across 12 starts with the Dodgers before a mid-season swap that saw him headed to the Guardians in exchange for infielder Amed Rosario. Things didn't go a whole lot better in Cleveland where he worked to a 5.40 ERA across six outings before the club cut him loose in late August. However, he worked to a solid 3.94 ERA across 25 outings (24 starts) split between the Phillies and Angels in the 2022 campaign and is the owner of a 3.71 ERA across 164 MLB appearances. He could serve as a cheap flyer for a club in need of starting pitching depth.
Nov 24 · Source via Noah SyndergaardRyan Jensen Designated For Assignment
The Seattle Mariners have designated pitcher Ryan Jensen for assignment. The right-hander is a 40-man roster casualty as the club needed to clear a spot following the trade of Eugenio Suarez for Carlos Vargas and Seby Zavala. The 26-year-old split the 2023 season between the Cubs and Mariners organizations as he tossed a 6.10 ERA across 16 outings at Triple-A with the Cubs but turned a corner and worked to a 3.18 ERA across 13 appearances with Triple-A Tacoma in the Mariners organization. Jensen has consistently put forth strong strikeouts numbers in his professional career but has also dealt with notable control concerns as well.
Nov 24 · Source via Seattle Mariners Ryan JensenJung Hoo Lee Likely To Be Posted In Early December
11:02PM: The KBO officially requested to Major League Baseball that Lee be posted (reporter Jiheon Pae had the news first, and thanks to MyKBO.net’s Dan Kurtz for the update). This doesn’t necessarily speed up the timeline reported by Yoo earlier tonight, as Yoo reiterated that “with the Thanksgiving holiday, the process likely won’t begin in…
Nov 24 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Jung Hoo LeeYankees Showing Interest In Jordan Montgomery
The Yankees seem to be considering a reunion with former rotation stalwart Jordan Montgomery, according to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman. The club has been “looking at” Montgomery as a possible offseason signing, and it appears to be slightly more than just due diligence, as Heyman writes that “the Yankees have been particular about…
Nov 23 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Yankees Jordan MontgomeryEric Stout Drawing Interest From MLB Clubs
Free agent left-hander Eric Stout is drawing interest from all over the baseball world, with Jon Heyman of The New York Post reporting that the southpaw has interest from clubs in Major League Baseball, Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball and the Korea Baseball Organization. Stout, 31 in March, has very limited major league experience, having appeared…
Nov 23 · MLB Trade Rumors Eric StoutSeth Lugo Drawing Widespread Interest
Multiple reports have indicated that the demand for starting pitching is huge this offseason and one player that could benefit is right-hander Seth Lugo. In an appearance on Foul Territory, Robert Murray of FanSided reports that Lugo’s market is extensive and “more than half the league” has checked in on him. Lugo, 34, spent most…
Nov 23 · MLB Trade Rumors Seth LugoWhite Sox Sign Justin Anderson To Minor League Deal
The White Sox have signed right-hander Justin Anderson to a minor league deal, according to his transactions tracker at MLB.com. He has been assigned to Triple-A Charlotte for now but could get an invitation to major league Spring Training. Anderson, 31, appeared in 111 big league games for the Angels over 2018 and 2019. He…
Nov 23 · MLB Trade Rumors Chicago White Sox Justin AndersonTwins Have Discussed Christian Vázquez Trades
The Twins have been open about their plans to reduce payroll and that has reportedly led them to try to trade some players from their roster. In an appearance on Foul Territory, Robert Murray of FanSided listed catcher Christian Vázquez as one player that the club has been aggressively shopping. Vázquez, now 33, signed a…
Nov 23 · MLB Trade Rumors Minnesota Twins Christian VazquezGiants, Yusniel Diaz Agree To Minor League Deal
Outfielder Yusniel Díaz has signed a minor league contract with the Giants, according to his transaction log at MLB.com. It isn’t clear if he’ll get an invitation to MLB Spring Training. Díaz, 27, is a former top prospect from his early time in the Dodgers organization. The Cuban-born outfielder hit very well up through Double-A, leading…
Nov 23 · MLB Trade Rumors San Francisco Giants Yusniel DiazPatrick Murphy Agrees To Deal With NPB's Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters
Right-hander Patrick Murphy has agreed to terms with the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball, per Robert Murray of FanSided. The deal, which is pending a physical, will be for one year with a 2025 option as well as performance bonuses and escalators. Murphy, 29 in June, spent 2023 with the Twins…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Patrick MurphyMariners Looking At Jeimer Candelario
Free-agent infielder Jeimer Candelario is among the Seattle Mariners' options at third base after they traded Eugenio Suarez to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday. If the Mariners don't sign Candelario this winter, there is a good chance that Luis Urias could be the favorite to start at the hot corner to begin the 2024 regular season. Candelario is a hot commodity on the open market after hitting a combined .251/.336/.471 with an .807 OPS, a career-high 22 home runs, 39 doubles, three triples, 70 RBI, eight stolen bases and 77 runs scored in 140 games with the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs in 2023. The 29-year-old switch-hitter isn't a big power guy for a third baseman and has only a .243 career batting average in eight seasons in the big leagues. He did the majority of his damage in D.C. in 99 games before hitting just .234 in 41 games for the Cubs after he was traded.
Nov 22 · Source via Seattle Mariners Jeimer Candelario Luis UriasBraves Re-Sign Chadwick Tromp To Minor League Deal
The Braves have re-signed catcher Chadwick Tromp to a minor league deal, per the transaction tracker of the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers. He was just non-tendered by the Braves last week. Infielder Luke Williams, also non-tendered by Atlanta last week, is back on a minor league deal as well. It’s listed on the transactions tracker as…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Chadwick TrompMariners Designate Ryan Jensen For Assignment
The Mariners announced that they have designated right-hander Ryan Jensen for assignment. The M’s needed an extra roster spot after acquiring right-hander Carlos Vargas and catcher Seby Zavala in exchange for third baseman Eugenio Suárez, a trade you can read more about here. The timing from the M’s is unfortunately impolite, as Jensen’s 26th birthday…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Seattle Mariners Ryan JensenNearly Half The League Has Reached Out To Yoshinobu Yamamoto
As the best pitcher in Japan who’s been made available to MLB teams at just 25 years of age, Orix Buffaloes right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto has always been expected to command an aggressive bidding war. Yamamoto’s 45-day negotiation window with MLB clubs opened yesterday morning, and he’s unsurprisingly drawn widespread early interest. Agent Joel Wolfe of…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Yoshinobu YamamotoYusniel Diaz Lands Minor-League Deal With Giants
The San Francisco Giants signed free-agent outfielder Yusniel Diaz to a minor-league deal on Tuesday. Diaz made his major-league debut in 2022 with the Baltimore Orioles but struck out in his only plate appearance in one game. The 27-year-old Cuban was once an interesting top prospect with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but he hasn't exactly turned out in the big leagues. In 94 games for Double-A Tulsa in 2023, he hit .278 (96-for-345) with 16 home runs, 21 doubles, a triple, 60 RBI, seven stolen bases and 54 runs scored. Diaz is still on the right side of 30 and will be hoping to impress the Giants enough in the minors early in 2024 to eventually get a call-up to the Show.
Nov 22 · Source via San Francisco Giants Yusniel DiazAngels Pick Up Alan Rangel
The Los Angeles Angels signed right-hander Alan Rangel to a minor-league deal on Tuesday. The 26-year-old hurler has yet to make his major-league debut. He spent the 2023 campaign in the Atlanta Braves organization and went 4-16 with a 4.61 ERA and 1.31 WHIP with 50 walks and 140 strikeouts in 127 innings pitched over 26 appearances (25 starts) at Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett. In eight minor-league seasons, Rangel has pitched to a 4.49 ERA and 1.31 WHIP with 239 walks and 764 strikeouts in 749 1/3 innings over 169 appearances (142 starts). He'll operate as minor-league pitching depth for the Angels in 2024 as he looks to finally get back to the big leagues and make his debut.
Nov 22 · Source via Los Angeles Angels Alan RangelChadwick Tromp Returns To Braves
The Atlanta Braves re-signed catcher Chadwick Tromp to a minor-league deal on Wednesday. Tromp will return to the organization for the 2024 season after he was non-tendered by the club last week. He has played in just seven games for Atlanta at the major-league level the last two seasons and has gone 5-for-20 with three doubles, four RBI and a run scored. The 28-year-old backstop will be back to provide depth at the catcher position behind Sean Murphy and Travis d'Arnaud. In 65 games at Triple-A Gwinnett in 2023, Tromp slashed .210/.336/.384 with 10 home runs and 33 RBI. He's a career .246 hitter with 51 homers in 521 minor-league games over 10 seasons.
Nov 22 · Source via Atlanta Braves Chadwick TrompJustin Anderson Signs Minor-League Deal With White Sox
The Chicago White Sox signed free-agent right-hander Justin Anderson to a minor-league deal on Wednesday. Anderson made his big-league debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018 but hasn't appeared in the majors since 2019. The 31-year-old reliever wasn't good over three minor-league levels with the Kansas City Royals in 2023, posting a 6.87 ERA and 1.47 WHIP with 20 walks and 59 strikeouts in 36 2/3 innings over 24 appearances (one start) in the Arizona Complex League and with Double-A Northwest Arkansas and Triple-A Omaha. In 111 outings out of the bullpen with the Angels in 2018 and 2019, Anderson allowed 57 runs (54 earned) while walking 32 and striking out 60 in 47 frames. He'll operate as organizational relief depth for the Pale Hose in 2024.
Nov 22 · Source via Chicago White Sox Justin AndersonAndres Chaparro Signs With Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamondbacks signed free-agent infielder Andres Chaparro to a minor-league deal on Wednesday. Chaparro has big power and hit 25 home runs and drove in 89 runs in 137 games in the New York Yankees organization with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in 2023. The 24-year-old slugger has the ability to play both third base and first base as well. He was one of the most sought-after minor-league free agents this offseason, and the National League champions will now secure his services for the 2024 campaign. Before clubbing 25 long balls last season, Chaparro hit 19 home runs and posted a strong .963 OPS in 64 games at Double-A Somerset in 2022.
Nov 22 · Source via Arizona Diamondbacks Andres ChaparroGrant Holmes Re-Signs With Braves
The Atlanta Braves re-signed right-hander Grant Holmes to a minor-league deal on Wednesday. Holmes, a former first-round pick by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2014, has yet to make his major-league debut. He spent all of the 2023 season at Triple-A Gwinnett, where he went 7-3 with a 3.54 ERA and 1.29 WHIP while walking 26 and striking out 74 in 61 innings over 50 relief appearances. In nine minor-league seasons, he's appeared in 232 games (111 starts) and has posted a 4.58 ERA and 1.45 WHIP in 694 1/3 innings pitched. Holmes will strictly operate as organizational pitching depth yet again for Atlanta in 2024.
Nov 22 · Source via Atlanta Braves Grant HolmesNaoyuki Uwasawa To Be Posted Soon
Japanese pitcher Naoyuki Uwasawa is expected to be posted soon by the Nippon Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball team. Uwasawa's strikeout rates haven't been excellent in Japan, but he has interesting characteristics to some of his pitches. His fastball movement and spin rate would be in the top 5-10 percent in Major League Baseball. The 29-year-old right-hander went 9-9 with a 2.96 ERA, 124 strikeouts and 41 walks in 170 innings for the Ham Fighters last season. Uwasawa has a low-90s fastball and probably won't get a ton of swings and misses, which isn't going to make him a top target in fantasy in 2024 if he makes the move to the States.
Nov 22 · Source via Prospects Naoyuki UwasawaShota Imanaga Likely To Be Posted By Monday
The Yokohama BayStars of Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball are planning to post left-hander Shota Imanaga for Major League teams sometime between now and Monday, reports Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. While prior reporting had indicated that Imanaga might not be posted until fellow NPB ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto had already signed, it instead appears that Imanaga will…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Shota ImanagaWoo-Suk Go To Be Posted For MLB Clubs
The South Korean baseball champions LG Twins announced on Wednesday that they will post closer Woo-suk Go for Major League Baseball teams, but the money has to be right. Once a player from the Korean Baseball Organization is posted, MLB teams will have a 30-day window to make offers and negotiate a deal. Go became eligible for posting this winter after completing his equivalent of seven full seasons in the KBO. He missed some time in 2023 due to injuries, but he's been one of the league's to closers since taking on that role in 2019. The 25-year-old hard-throwing right-hander has recorded 139 saves since 2019 while striking out 334 batters and walking 115 in 275 1/3 innings. He should attract plenty of interest from MLB teams looking to rebuild their bullpens this offseason.
Nov 22 · Source via ProspectsLuis Urias Likely To Play Third Base In 2024
Seattle Mariners infielder Luis Urias will likely play third base for his new club in the 2024 season. The news comes after Wednesday's trade of third baseman Eugenio Suarez to the D-backs in exchange for right-hander Carlos Vargas and catcher Seby Zavala. Recently acquired in a trade with the Boston Red Sox, Urias has experience at third base, shortstop, and second base in his big-league career, and while his 1,319 1/3 innings at the hot corner are his most at any single position, he does have fairly even playing time at those three spots. The 26-year-old struggled to a .194 average with three homers across 177 plate appearances between the Brewers and Red Sox in 2023 but did swat 39 home runs across the 2021 and 2022 seasons and posted a healthy .789 OPS as recently as the 2021 campaign.
Nov 22 · Source via Seattle Mariners Luis UriasYoshinobu Yamamoto Receiving Interest From Roughly Half Of MLB Teams
Free agent pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto is reportedly receiving interest from roughly half of Major League Baseball clubs. The report is hardly a surprise considering Yamamoto is the biggest international free agent since his countryman Shohei Ohtani prior to the 2018 season. The 25-year-old right-hander is a two-time NPB MVP and is coming off a sparkling 1.21 ERA across 23 games with Orix in the 2023 season. Yamamoto's market is reportedly stretching from deep-pocketed teams such as the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees but also some smaller-market clubs in the D-backs and Tigers. The upcoming winter meetings will be a good chance for the recently-posted right-hander to meet with interested clubs, if he's so inclined, as his market should intensify in the coming days. His contract is expected to blow past the $200 million mark given the widespread interest.
Nov 22 · Source via Prospects Yoshinobu YamamotoEugenio Suarez Shipped To D-Backs In Three-Player Deal
The Seattle Mariners have traded third baseman Eugenio Suarez to the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for right-handed pitcher Carlos Vargas and catcher Seby Zavala. The 32-year-old Suarez will be in the final season of a seven-year, $66 million contract in 2024, although the D-backs will hold a club option on the veteran for the 2025 campaign. Suarez took a step back at the plate in 2023 but still had a solid season that included a .232 average with 22 home runs, 96 RBI, and a .714 OPS while appearing in all 162 games, production that graded out 2% above the league average, as per his 102 wRC+. Zavala limped to a .171 average with seven homers across 193 plate appearances between the White Sox and D-backs in 2023 but is a highly-regarded defender behind the plate and should serve as Cal Raleigh's backup next season. Vargas, 24, made five appearances in his MLB debut with the D-backs last season, allowing three earned on two homers in that time but he also struck out seven of the 22 batters he faced. He also scuffled to a 7.02 ERA in 38 outings at Triple-A Reno but is a live arm who averaged 99.5 mph on his four-seam baseball in his brief MLB time last season.
Nov 22 · Source via Arizona Diamondbacks Seattle Mariners Eugenio SuarezCardinals Sign Kyle Gibson To One-Year Deal
The Cardinals announced the signing of Kyle Gibson to a one-year deal with a club option for 2025. The veteran right-hander will reportedly be guaranteed $12MM; the option value is still unreported. Gibson is a client of Rowley Sports Management. Gibson, 36, spent 2023 with the Orioles on a one-year, $10MM deal. He took the ball…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors St. Louis Cardinals Kyle GibsonPaul DeJong In Agreement With White Sox On Major League Deal
The White Sox are reportedly in agreement with free agent shortstop Paul DeJong on a major league contract, pending a physical. Financial terms aren’t clear, although it’ll be a one-year deal once finalized. DeJong is a client of the C.L. Rocks Corporation. DeJong, 30, is a buy-low move for the Sox, as he has struggled badly…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Prospects Chicago White Sox Paul DeJong Colson Montgomery12 Possible Fits For A Tyler Glasnow Trade
Rays right-hander Tyler Glasnow is among this offseason’s top trade candidates. He’s set to make $25MM in his final season before free agency. That’d be the largest single-year salary in franchise history. The Rays committed to that number not long ago, signing the 6’8″ hurler to an extension in August 2022. Even with various subsequent injuries…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Tampa Bay Rays Tyler GlasnowPham: Interest From Around 10 Teams In Free Agency
Tommy Pham is on the open market for a third consecutive season. The veteran outfielder is in a better spot than he had been from 2021-22, as he’s coming arguably his best year since 2019. In an appearance on the New York’s Post podcast with Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman, Pham said his representatives at…
Nov 22 · MLB Trade Rumors Tommy PhamSeveral Teams Showing Interest In Shane Bieber
MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported Tuesday that "several teams have been showing interest" in trading for Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Shane Bieber. Morosi thinks trade interest in the 28-year-old could pick up after the Winter Meetings. Bieber has one year of team control remaining, and while he did miss time in 2023 with right elbow inflammation, he was able to return in September and make two starts. Overall, Bieber went 6-6 in 21 starts with a 3.80 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, and 20.1% strikeout rate. While these were fine numbers overall, they were Bieber's worst since his rookie season in 2018 and were a departure from his career 3.27 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and 27.8% strikeout rate. His injury outlook combined with whether he is traded could impact his fantasy outlook heading into 2024.
Nov 22 · Source via Cleveland Guardians Shane BieberCould Dodgers Sign Shohei Ohtani And Yoshinobu Yamamoto?
MLB Network's Jon Heyman reported Tuesday that the Los Angeles Dodgers are considering the possibility of signing both two-way star Shohei Ohtani and top Japanese starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto this offseason. Both players are considered the top free agents this offseason and could command combined contracts of more than $700 million in guaranteed money, making it a huge monetary commitment to bring both on. The Dodgers have also already been linked to a number of high-profile free agents and potential trade candidates, so it makes sense that they would be linked to both of these players. Ohtani and Yamamoto played together in the 2023 World Baseball Classic for Team Japan, earning gold.
Nov 22 · Source via Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani Yoshinobu YamamotoYankees Hire Brad Ausmus As Bench Coach
The New York Yankees hired Brad Ausmus as their bench coach Tuesday, per MLB.com's Thomas Harrigan. The 55-year-old began his professional career in the Yankees organization and will bring five years of big-league managerial experience to the team. He also played for 18 seasons across four teams, earning three Gold Glove Awards as a catcher. Ausmus will be the third bench coach with the Yankees under manager Aaron Boone's tenure.
Nov 22 · Source via New York YankeesYankees Reportedly Interested In Jung Hoo Lee
The New York Yankees are interested in left-handed Korean star outfielder Jung Hoo Lee, New York Post Sports reported Tuesday. The 25-year-old has hit .340 with 65 home runs, 69 stolen bases, and an .898 OPS through seven seasons in the KBO. Lee played just 86 games in 2023 due to an ankle injury but still slashed .318/.406/.455 with six HR, 45 RBI, and six stolen bases. It is always a bit of an unknown as to how professional players from other leagues will adjust to MLB, but Lee's left-handed power combined with Yankee Stadium's short right-field fence would make him an intriguing fantasy option.
Nov 22 · Source via Jung Hoo LeePirates Sign Gilberto Celestino To Minor-League Deal
The Pittsburgh Pirates signed free-agent outfielder Gilberto Celestino to a minor-league deal on Monday, according to sources. Celestino made his big-league debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2021 and hit just .136 (8-for-59) with two homers and three RBI in 23 games before getting more of a chance in 2022 over a 122-game span. In his second season with the Twins, he slashed .238/.313/.302 with two homers, 12 doubles, a triple, 24 RBI, four stolen bases and 30 runs scored in 347 plate appearances. The 24-year-old didn't play at all in the majors in 2023 after having surgery in March to fix a torn UCL in his left thumb, but he could have a shot to win a bench role in spring training in Pittsburgh in 2024. Celestino is known mostly for his speed and his glove in the outfield, so he's of little use to fantasy managers.
Nov 21 · Source via Pittsburgh Pirates Gilberto CelestinoTigers Showing "Serious Interest" In Kenta Maeda
The Tigers have “serious” interest in free agent righty Kenta Maeda, reports Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press. The club views him as a possible veteran stabilizer for a young rotation and also hopes a potential Maeda deal would help to “establish themselves in the Japanese pitching market” in the future, Petzold writes. Following…
Nov 21 · MLB Trade Rumors Detroit Tigers Kenta MaedaCardinals Re-Sign Wilking Rodriguez To Minor-League Deal
The St. Louis Cardinals announced on Tuesday that they re-signed right-handed reliever Wilking Rodriguez (shoulder) to a minor-league deal that includes a non-roster invitation to spring training next year. Rodriguez, 33, will return to the organization in 2024 to give them more relief depth. He has not appeared in the major leagues since pitching two innings out of the bullpen for the Kansas City Royals in 2014. The Venezuelan hurler only went 5 2/3 relief innings over seven appearances out of the bullpen for Triple-A Memphis in 2023 before undergoing arthroscopic right-shoulder surgery in May. Rodriguez should be fully recovered for the start of spring training.
Nov 21 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Wilking RodriguezPaul DeJong Agrees With White Sox
Free-agent infielder Paul DeJong agreed to an undisclosed one-year deal with the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday, pending a physical, according to a source. The rebuilding White Sox are taking a cheap flier on a former All-Star. The 30-year-old right-handed-hitting DeJong made the National League All-Star team in 2019 with the St. Louis Cardinals, when he hit .233/.318/.444 with a career-high 30 home runs, 78 RBI and nine stolen bases in 159 games. He hasn't even reached the 20-homer mark since then. In 112 contests with the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants in 2023, he went 77-for-372 (.207) with 14 homers, 38 RBI, 13 doubles, four stolen bases and 41 runs scored in 400 plate appearances. DeJong can provide a bit of pop but will certainly be a batting-average drain as a middle infield platoon option in deep-mixed and AL-only fantasy leagues.
Nov 21 · Source via Chicago White Sox Paul DeJongKyle Gibson Agrees To One-Year Deal With Cardinals
Free-agent right-hander Kyle Gibson has agreed to a one-year, $12 million deal with the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday that also includes a team option for 2025, according to sources. It's no secret that the Cardinals are desperate for starting arms this offseason, and they've now added a starting pitcher for the second straight day after reuniting with veteran Lance Lynn on Monday. The 36-year-old Gibson went 15-9 for the Baltimore Orioles in 2023 on a one-year deal with a 4.73 ERA (4.13 FIP) and 1.32 WHIP while walking 55 and striking out 157 in 192 innings over 33 starts. Gibson will get away from the difficult American League East and will now join the National League Central after allowing a league-high 198 hits in 2023.
Nov 21 · Source via St. Louis Cardinals Kyle Gibson Lance LynnMichael Soroka Resumes Throwing
Chicago White Sox right-hander Michael Soroka (forearm) said that he has resumed throwing this offseason and "feels great." Despite finishing the 2023 campaign on the 60-day injured list with right-forearm inflammation, the White Sox acquired him from the Atlanta Braves as part of a package that sent left-handed reliever Aaron Bummer to Atlanta. The 26-year-old Canadian came in second in National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2019 when he went 13-4 with a 2.68 ERA and 1.11 WHIP, but he started only three games in 2020 and missed all of 2021 and 2022 after tearing his Achilles twice. Soroka was a worthwhile starting pitching flier for the rebuilding White Sox, and he should be in play to open the 2024 season in the team's starting rotation as long as he can avoid any setbacks this winter.
Nov 21 · Source via Chicago White Sox Michael SorokaAngels Pick Barry Enright As Next Pitching Coach
The Los Angeles Angels announced on Tuesday that they have hired Barry Enright as their next pitching coach. The former Angels pitcher was formerly a pitching coach with the Arizona Diamondbacks for the last three seasons, most recently working as assistant pitching coach under Brent Strom. Enright joins new manager Ron Washington and his staff in Anaheim as they look to get the Halos back to the postseason for the first time since 2014. In 2023, the Angels ranked 23rd in baseball with a 4.64 ERA, 26th in WHIP (1.42), 22nd in opponents' batting average (.252) and 10th in strikeouts (1,445). The 37-year-old Enright held a 5.57 ERA and 1.47 WHIP in four major-league seasons with the Diamondbacks and Angels from 2010-13.
Nov 21 · Source via Los Angeles AngelsRed Sox Hire Andrew Bailey As New Pitching Coach
The Boston Red Sox announced on Tuesday that they have hired Andrew Bailey as their new pitching coach at the major-league level. The 39-year-old served as the pitching coach for the San Francisco Giants for the last four seasons after two years with the Los Angeles Angels as their bullpen coach and coaching assistant and video-replay coordinator. While in San Francisco, the team's pitchers ranked sixth in baseball with a 3.80 ERA while allowing the fewest home runs (525) and posting the third-highest strikeout-to-walk ratio (3.16). Giants pitchers issued the fewest walks in the league last year with 403. Bailey pitched in 265 big-league games before becoming a coach over eight seasons, including 49 games with the Red Sox from 2012-13. He was a two-time All-Star in each of his first two seasons in 2009-10.
Nov 21 · Source via Boston Red SoxYankees Sign Yerry De Los Santos
The New York Yankees signed free-agent right-hander Yerry De Los Santos to a minor-league deal on Monday, according to his representatives. The deal includes an invitation to spring training. The 25-year-old Dominican uses a sinker-heavy approach and has a 54.5 ground-ball percentage over 48 major-league appearances with the Pittsburgh Pirates and a career ERA of 4.14. He pitched in 24 1/3 relief innings for Pittsburgh in 2023 and allowed 10 runs (nine earned) on 17 hits (one homer) while walking 13 and striking out 18 batters. De Los Santos will represent relief depth for the Yankees bullpen heading into the 2024 season.
Nov 21 · Source via New York Yankees Yerry De Los SantosPadres Hire Mike Shildt As Next Manager
The San Diego Padres announced on Tuesday that they have hired Mike Shildt to a two-year contract as their new manager. He will be replacing Bob Melvin, who departed this offseason to manage the division-rival San Francisco Giants. The 55-year-old Shildt served as a senior adviser for the Padres after the St. Louis Cardinals surprisingly let him go after the 2021 season. He was viewed as the favorite to take over after Melvin was granted permission to talk with the Giants. Shildt took over as St. Louis' skipper midway through the 2018 season and led the club to playoff appearances in each of his three seasons as manager. He takes over a Padres team that had an extremely disappointing 2023 campaign that ended with an 82-80 record and no playoffs despite a record payroll approaching $250 million.
Nov 21 · Source via San Diego PadresBraves Sign Reynaldo Lopez
The Braves announced Monday morning that they’ve signed right-hander Reynaldo Lopez to a three-year contract that will guarantee him $30MM. The CAA client will be paid $4MM in 2024 and $11MM in both 2025 and 2026. There’s an $8MM club option for the 2027 season with a $4MM buyout. Lopez becomes the fifth name added…
Nov 21 · MLB Trade Rumors Atlanta Braves Reynaldo LopezJosh Donaldson Open To Playing Another Season
Josh Donaldson returned to free agency at season’s end. The veteran third baseman had finished out the year with the Brewers after being released by the Yankees in late August. The 2015 AL MVP tells Josh Wegman of The Score that he’s open to a return for what would be his age-38 season. A potential…
Nov 21 · MLB Trade Rumors Josh DonaldsonYankees, Yerry De Los Santos Agree To Deal
The Yankees have an agreement with reliever Yerry De Los Santos, his representatives at Epitome Sports Management announced on Instagram. While the agency didn’t specify the terms, it’s very likely a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training. De Los Santos became a free agent two weeks ago after he went unclaimed on waivers.…
Nov 21 · MLB Trade Rumors New York Yankees Yerry De Los Santos"Majority Of Teams" Interested In Brandon Woodruff
MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported Monday that the "majority of teams" are interested in free-agent starting pitcher Brandon Woodruff (shoulder). The 30-year-old was non-tendered by the Brewers last week after undergoing right shoulder surgery. There is a chance that he may not pitch at all in 2024, but he is expected to sign a multiyear deal regardless. Woodruff has been a high-end starter throughout his career when healthy and went 5-1 in 11 starts and 67 innings pitched in 2023 with a 2.28 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, and 29.2% strikeout rate. The injury risk is apparent, but his upside is clearly so high that many teams are interested in bringing him on.
Nov 21 · Source via Brandon WoodruffStone Garrett Out Of Walking Boot, Aiming For Spring Training Return
Washington Nationals outfielder Stone Garrett (leg) ran on the treadmill for the first time Monday and is still aiming to be ready for spring training, per MASN's Bobby Blanco. The 27-year-old had his 2023 season cut short in August after suffering a fractured left fibula. This was a shame, as he was putting together a strong season, slashing .269/.343/.457 with nine home runs, 40 RBI, and three stolen bases in 271 plate appearances. Garrett still has a long way to go to first be healthy for spring training and then to prove that he can produce at the level he was on in 2023, but he could be worth a look at the end of deeper roto-league drafts if he can come back fully.
Nov 21 · Source via Washington Nationals Stone GarrettOsvaldo Bido, A's Reach Major-League Deal Monday
FanSided's Robert Murray reported Monday that free-agent pitcher Osvaldo Bido and the Oakland Athletics agreed to a major-league contract. Further details were not provided. The 28-year-old righty made his big-league debut last season with the Pirates, making 16 appearances (nine starts) with a 2-5 record, 5.86 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, and 20.3% strikeout rate. It remains to see what his role will be, but given his late debut and performance, his fantasy value will be low heading into the season.
Nov 21 · Source via Oakland Athletics Osvaldo BidoJosh Donaldson Wants To Play In 2024
Free-agent third baseman Josh Donaldson said in an interview with the Score's Josh Wegman Monday that he would like to play one more season. The 38-year-old dealt with a number of injuries in 2023 and was released by the Yankees, although he did sign with the Brewers and made their playoff roster. Donaldson finished the regular season with a .152/.249/.418 slash line, 13 home runs, and 26 RBI in 189 plate appearances. Whether he ends up playing this season or not, Donaldson has put together a solid career and was always a power threat for fantasy with a .261/.358/.489 career slash line, 279 HR, and 816 RBI while playing for seven different teams.
Nov 21 · Source via Josh DonaldsonPhillies Still In Play For Yoshinobu Yamamoto
The Philadelphia Phillies just signed a seven-year, $172 million contract extension with starting pitcher Aaron Nola, but Philadelphia Inquirer's Alex Coffey reported Monday that the team will likely try to sign one more starting pitcher this offseason. This includes Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who was officially posted Monday. Bringing in both Nola and Yamamoto would definitely sure up the team's rotation but would be costly, as the 25-year-old is expected to sign this season's richest contract for a starting pitcher. While the Phillies are expected to be "pretty aggressive" in pursuing him, they will only push for a deal if they feel the price is right, as Yamamoto will surely have a number of suitors.
Nov 21 · Source via Philadelphia Phillies Aaron Nola Yoshinobu Yamamoto