The MLB offseason is in full swing, with teams and free agents actively engaging in negotiations as the Winter Meetings approach. This year's meetings, set to take place next week in Dallas, promise to be particularly eventful, with significant moves expected from several prominent teams.
Yankees Busy in Offseason Negotiations
The New York Yankees, aiming to bolster their rotation, have been notably active in their offseason arrangements. Recently, the team has engaged in discussions with top-tier pitchers, employing technology to bring together decision-makers and potential signees. Max Fried and Corbin Burnes are among those who have been on the Yankees' radar, with the team conducting remote meetings to explore possibilities.
Burnes, who comes into this offseason ranked as the second-best free agent, represents a key target for the Yankees. As they look to strengthen an already formidable rotation that includes Gerrit Cole, Nestor Cortes, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman, the Yankees are keen on adding even more depth and quality.
Rays Entertain Trade Offers
While the Yankees eye new additions, the Tampa Bay Rays appear to be considering strategic moves of their own. The franchise has been fielding inquiries about Jeffrey Springs, a left-hander who made a strong comeback following Tommy John surgery. Springs posted an impressive 3.27 ERA over seven starts in the recent period and a 2.46 ERA in the 2022 season, making him an attractive option for potential suitors.
With Springs slated to be among the highest earners on the Rays roster by 2025, drawing a salary of $10.5 million and potentially extending his contract via a club option through 2027, Tampa Bay seems open to exploring trade options that could benefit their future roster plans.
Active Free-Agent Market
Beyond potential trades, the free-agent market features dynamic activity, particularly around right-handed pitcher Mike Soroka. Despite a challenging past that includes two Achilles tears, Soroka remains a notable figure, given his 2.75 ERA as a reliever and an impressive 39.0% strikeout rate. Teams looking to enhance their bullpen could see value in Soroka’s resilience and potential to rebound strongly.
Meanwhile, Koyo Aoyagi, another player drawing attention, has been posted by the Hanshin Tigers for MLB consideration. Known for his consistent performance, Aoyagi finished the 2024 season with a 3.00 ERA and 78 strikeouts over 114 innings. His posting has opened a window for MLB teams to negotiate with him, extending through January 17.
Anticipated Deals at the Winter Meetings
The upcoming Winter Meetings are eagerly anticipated, not just for potential trades and signings but also as a venue where prominent players are expected to finalize their contracts. Juan Soto is among those projected to land a new deal before the meetings conclude, signaling a period of transformative transactions across the league.
As the baseball landscape braces for changes, the blend of trades, signings, and strategic planning underscores the complexities of team-building in MLB. With just days to go before the Winter Meetings, the stage is set for what promises to be an engaging and possibly transformative week for many organizations and athletes alike.