The Dodgers, apparently having maneuvered their 40-man roster in a more favorable direction since initially losing Siani, decided they wanted the outfielder back.
The Yankees had actually DFA'd two players in their most recent move, but Marco Luciano passed through waivers unclaimed and has been assigned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Siani is a 26-year old who hits and bats lefty and can play centerfield.
He played for the Cardinals in 19 games in 2025, batting .235.
He also appeared in the major leagues for the Reds in both 2022 and 2023.
This is the way things go this time of year for a player like Siani. Teams DFA edge-of-roster players in the hopes of getting them through waivers unclaimed. They don't want them on the 40-man roster on Opening Day, but they'd like to have them around in Triple-A.
But with useful players like Siani, multiple clubs are often interested in doing the same thing. So they do this back and forth until a guy finally makes it through waivers for good.
In the meantime, there's a chance Siani stays on the move for the next month or so. He's used to it.
The Boston Red Sox have reportedly agreed to terms with veteran relief pitcher Kyle Keller, Will Sammon of The Athletic reported Tuesday night.
“Reliever Kyle Keller and the Boston Red Sox are in agreement on a minor league contract with an invite to major league spring training, league sources said,” Sammon wrote. “Keller gets $1.9 million if in majors plus $500K performance bonuses.”
The name might sound familiar to Major League Baseball fans, as Keller has had many stints around the league.
He made his debut in 2019, coming out of the Miami Marlins bullpen. The next season, he played for the Los Angeles Angels.
Keller saw his most action with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2021. He appeared in 32 games, throwing 33 1/3 innings. He allowed 24 earned runs and struck out 36 batters.
This was the last action the now 32-year-old saw in the MLB.
His next three seasons were spent on various different teams in the NPB baseball league, where he competed at the highest level in Japan.
During his NPB career, he threw 152 1/3 innings and posted a very respectable 2.42 ERA.
He is a two-ball pitcher. As a 6-foot-4 right-hander, he throws an overhand four-seam fastball followed by a drooping 12-6 curve.
According to BaseballSavant.com, he had an above-average fastball coming in at 94.5 MPH in his major league appearances. His curveball is also faster than league average at 81.4 MPH. It was a near 50/50 split with a slight usage edge going to his four-seamer.
Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to Fort Myers, Fla., exactly one week after Keller’s signing, Feb. 10.
The New York Yankees had claimed Siani at that point in time, but they just designated him for assignment themselves this week.
And when Siani was back on waivers, the Dodgers decided they wanted him back. They risked Ibanez to do so, although maybe they have a sense that Ibanez will get through waivers unscathed.
It's still quite the goofy maneuvering, even if it all works out in the end.
During the 2025 season, the Kansas City Royals had one of the better pitching staffs across the league. The team combined for an ERA of 3.73, which ranked them sixth in MLB, right behind the Boston Red Sox.
Guys like Michael Lorenzen, Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, and Kris Bubic delivered all season long. And with much of the core returning, they are looking to do much of the same in 2026.
If you haven't been paying attention, it is time to now. While some fans may think about the Los Angeles Dodgers when it comes to starting pitching, the Royals are not too far behind.
MLB analyst puts pressure on the Royals starting rotation to deliver
One player to keep an eye on is Kris Bubic. He is coming off an exceptional 2025 caampaign and if he can continue that success, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter believes the Royals have what it takes to be one of the best starting rotations in baseball.
"Left-hander Kris Bubic had a 2.48 ERA and 113 strikeouts in 108.2 innings during the first half last season, looking like a legitimate Cy Young candidate while earning his first All-Star selection. A rotator cuff strain limited him to just two starts during the second half, but if he can return to that form, the Royals could have one of the best rotations in baseball."
That is quite a lot of pressure to put on one player, but Bubic has the skills to dominate in 2026. So, watch out for this starting rotation. They could carry this team in the AL Central if the offense can keep up.
While they don't have the standout names that teams like the Boston Red Sox or Los Angeles Dodgers have, they have guys who can get the job done. It will be interesting to see how far this rotation can take them.
Spring training is almost here, but the Pittsburgh Pirates still have some unfinished business to attend to. They’d still like to add another hitter before the offseason ends, and they still need to figure out what to do with Andrew McCutchen.
McCutchen, 39, remains a free agent, and he isn’t happy about it. The Pirates legend has recently been voicing his displeasure on social media, saying he’s “not done” and indicating that he’d like to retire on his own terms, presumably with Pittsburgh.
After 17 MLB seasons, including 12 with the Pirates, he’s earned that right and deserves it. However, Pittsburgh may not be interested in bringing him back.
Things are awkward between Andrew McCutchen and the Pirates. But conflict might have been unavoidable. Column: https://t.co/KR1xYOcIZ8
McCutchen was solid offensively last season and has aged gracefully, posting an OPS of at least .700 every year of his career. However, his WAR and OPS have declined in each of the last two seasons to the point where he’s essentially a replacement-level player.
That doesn’t account for his veteran leadership and positive impact on the clubhouse, of course. If he wants to come back for one more season, Pittsburgh should find a way to make it work.
The Pirates are trying to be more competitive this year, but McCutchen hasn’t become a liability yet. He can still get on base and pop a few homers.
If Pittsburgh wants to move on from McCutchen, that’s okay, too. Baseball is a business, and he understands that. But whatever the Pirates decide, they must find a way to resolve their feud with him before the season starts.
Suárez was re-introduced to the Cincinnati market during a Feb. 3 video conference call in which a casual observer could have been convinced he'd never left the Reds after his memorable, power-laden stay from 2015-2022. He was playful with longtime members of the Reds press corps, and he leaned into his old "good vibes only" mantra, which he coined prior to departing the club via an admittedly emotional trade to the Seattle Mariners.
Suárez on Feb. 3 also spoke about important moments that transpired on and off the field during his time in Cincinnati, from breaking the all-time home run record for Venezuelan-born MLB players (49 homers in 2021, surpassing Andrés Galarraga's 47 in 1996) to the birth of his daughter in the city.
"It's perfect. That's why I'm here, because it's perfect," Suárez said. "Perfect (how) it worked out. Everything right now is perfect. Beautiful. Happy and very excited to be back home. I mean, first of all, the Reds were the team that I always in the offseason talked to my agents about me. They always asking. They trying to bring me back. When you put everything together, it makes it easy for me to be back home."
The conference call with local reporters served as the official re-introduction of the prolific slugger and 2025 American League All-Star to the Cincinnati market, where he returned just days ahead of spring training for the 2026 season on a one-year, $15 million contract with a mutual option for the 2027 season.
Seeing as Suárez gave the impression he'd never left Cincinnati, the hope now is he'll play like that, too. There's reason to think he will.
If Suárez enjoys another year of good health, which has been the norm for him, posting a season close to or in line with his career numbers could serve the Reds very well in the National League playoff picture.
Suárez is coming off a 2025 season in which he matched his career-best of 49 homers, and he reached that number after moving via trade from the Arizona Diamondbacks to the Mariners. Suárez was one of the sought-after prizes of last season's trade deadline and it paid off for a Seattle team that had Suárez help them secure an AL West division title and advancement to the AL Championship Series.
Suárez hit .213 in the postseason with Seattle, including three homers, eight RBI and 10 total hits.
Since departing Cincinnati in before Opening Day in 2022, Suárez hit a combined 132 home runs with Arizona and Seattle. His OPS over two stints with the Mariners was .741 while he posted a .832 OPS with the Diamondbacks.
"Obviously, I feel like I'm still the same guy on the field, doing my best every day," Suárez said. "Play my 100% everyday, even when I'm not feeling good.. Like I say, on the field I feel like I'm the same guy on the field who enjoys the game 100%. I'm the guy who wants to give the team the best version of me and try to win games. That's my goal. That's our goal."
Everything about the 2026 MLB season is a projection for the time being. Still, it's hard to overstate what Suárez's presence in the Reds' lineup could mean. He figures to offer solutions to almost all of the club's biggest offensive problems from 2025, a year in which Cincinnati still claimed the National League's third Wild Card postseason berth while lacking for power and consistent offense.
With a career OPS just below .800, Suárez projects to inject the Reds' lineup with much-needed power and a general hitting threat, likely in the middle of the batting order. According to Baseball Savant, the contact Suárez made in 2025 would have upped his home run total of 49 to 54 at hitter-friendly Great American Ball Park, too.
Suárez's presence could unlock the entire Reds' lineup offensively. Not only would he demand leverage pitches and taxing, high-intensity encounters for opposition pitchers in each plate appearance, he'd lengthen the lineup and keep a steady flow of competitive hitters at the plate deeper into the batting order.
Perhaps most important of all, Suárez could provide protection for Elly De La Cruz, who lacked protection in 2025. In essence, Suárez can be the bat that makes teams pay for letting De La Cruz reach base. The 2025 Reds simply didn't come close to offering the kind of backstop to support De La Cruz, and themselves, like they'll have in Suárez.
"To bring a guy in that’s a middle of the order bat, that hit 49 homers last year, the he’s a great clubhouse guy, great guy with all of your fans, you know what you’re getting with him," Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall said. "He’s just a tremendous individual and it's really been something that we weren't sure we were gonna be able to do but it was great that we were able to get 'Geno.'"
The Arizona Diamondbacks are in the market for first base help this offseason, and have a few options they could pick up this winter.
Paul Goldschmidt sticks out like a sore thumb, as a reunion with the franchise icon would be a fun storyline this offseason. But that's not what the Diamondbacks are going to do.
Instead, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Diamondbacks are in agreement with 39-year-old Gold Glove first baseman Carlos Santana on a contract.
Diamondbacks to sign ex-Guardians 335-homer slugger
"Free-agent first baseman Carlos Santana in agreement with Diamondbacks, pending physical, sources tell me and @WillSammon," Rosenthal reports.
This deal with the Diamondbacks and the former Cleveland Guardians slugger is a small one for the Diamondbacks. It's a cheap deal, but a noteworthy one.
Santana is 39 years old and has 335 home runs in his NFL career with a .241 career batting average, 39.3 bWAR, and a .777 OPS and 112 OPS+ in his 12-year career.
By joining the Diamondbacks, as long as he plays in one game this upcoming season, Santana will have been in the Major Leagues for 17 different seasons and with nine different teams.
This past season for the Guardians and the Chicago Cubs, Santana hit .219 with a .633 OPS in one of the worst seasons of his professional career.
His 77 OPS+ was the worst mark of his 16 years in the Major Leagues, but with his great defense at first base, he still put up 1.1 bWAR on the year.
Santana is a nice veteran first base option for the Diamondbacks in 2026, and if he can somewhat return to form offensively, his stellar defense will make him a very solid player for the Diamondbacks this upcoming season.
The countdown to the 2026 baseball season has officially begun!
The Phillies are packing up their gear and leaving snowy South Philadelphia on Tuesday to head to spring training in Clearwater, Florida.
Truck Day is an annual tradition at Citizens Bank Park, with Phillies front office staff and Citizens Ballpark Bankers helping pack the items onto three 28-foot trailers.
It's Truck Day! The Phillies are packing up their gear and leaving snowy South Philadelphia, to head to spring training in Clearwater, Florida.
They will spend several hours loading in all the equipment the team will need, including 2,400 baseballs, 1,200 bats, 140 helmets, 300 batting gloves, and thousands of clothing items like shirts, jackets, socks, and belts.
"When the truck is loaded, hopefully the warm weather is coming, and probably eight weeks from now, baseball will be upon us," said Frankie Bowens, manager of ballpark operations.
Bowens has been taking part in Truck Day for 25 years now. Newcomers are just as excited.
"This is my first Truck Day, so I'm really excited about it, and I get to do it with my son right here," said Citizen Ballpark Banker, Carol Mason.
"It's great to be behind the scenes and see all the magic," said Carol's son, Andrew Mason.
And the team also won't leave home without its biggest hype man, the Phillie Phanatic, and his hot dog launcher!
"Everyone gets so excited when they see it," said Tim Schmidt, Phillies clubhouse attendant. "Once you see the Phillie Phanatic hot dog launcher get put onto the truck, you know it's go time."
This will be a special trip for Schmidt. He's bringing his wife and newborn to Clearwater this go around.
"I'm pretty excited this year," he said.
The truck will travel over 1,000 miles through eight states before arriving in Florida on Sunday to begin unloading.
This year marks the team's 80th spring training in Clearwater.
Spring training starts on February 11, with games beginning on February 21.
The Phillies' home opener at Citizens Bank Park is on March 26 against the Texas Rangers.
The Athletics have been building up their team from the ground up with a ton of young players making their MLB debuts and landing extensions.
Tyler Soderstrom and, most recently, Jacob Wilson have signed extensions. If the A's can find a way to sign Nick Kurtz long-term, then the Athletics will be in an even better spot.
But, there is still room on the roster for more youth, and ESPN's David Schoenfield predicted the A's will see their top prospect, whom they acquired in the Mason Miller trade, make his MLB debut at 19 years old in 2026.
Athletics predicted to see MLB debut from 19-year-old prospect
"Leo De Vries (No. 11) will debut in the majors at 19 years old," Schoenfield writes. "... De Vries will have a really strong showing in the first five months of 2026 and give himself a chance to make his major league debut at that position in September."
This prediction, while it's a very bold one with the A's getting their 19-year-old top prospect into the Major Leagues in 2026, is a prediction that still has De Vries sitting in the minor leagues for most of the year.
But, even if De Vries can get up to the Major Leagues for a short period of time, it could give the A's a good look at the future of their franchise at his expected new position at third base.
The A's top shortstop prospect could find a new home at third base for the Athletics, with Wilson sticking at shortstop after signing his big $70 million extension.
Last year in Double-A, De Vries hit .281 with a very strong. 910 OPS. After being traded to the A's, he proved he was worth moving on from Miller in a blockbuster trade with the San Diego Padres.
The Athletics seeing De Vries make his MLB debut this upcoming season would be incredible, as not only would it mean he's already shown enough, but that he could stick in the Majors as soon as 2027.
The ink is dry on the biggest contracts of the winter, and the landscape of Major League Baseball has shifted beneath our feet. From the Los Angeles Dodgers turning their payroll into a video game cheat code to the quietly calculated gambles in the Midwest, this offseason separated the contenders from the pretenders. The Athletic has graded every front office’s homework, so let’s dive into who passed with flying colors and who needs to stay after class.
30. Minnesota Twins
Minnesota Twins outfielder Harrison Bader (12) is tagged while diving back to first base in a pick off attempt during a spring training game against the Colorado Rockies at Lee Health Sports Complex in Fort Myers, Fla., on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Grade: D Key Stat: 0 Major League free agent signings
It was a winter of hibernation in the Twin Cities. While the rest of the AL Central armed themselves for a dogfight, the Twins sat on their hands, shedding payroll and opting for internal “improvements” that feel more like cost-cutting measures. The lack of urgency to support their young core is baffling, and the fan base has every right to be frustrated with a front office that seems content with mediocrity.
29. Cleveland Guardians
Aug 1, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians designated hitter Kyle Manzardo (9) celebrates with teammates after hitting a walk-off RBI single during the tenth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Grade: D Key Stat: Lowest payroll increase in AL Central
Cleveland’s strategy remains consistent to a fault: value over volume. Unfortunately, you can’t bargain-hunt your way to a pennant every year without eventually paying the toll. Ignoring a glaring need for power in the outfield and depth in the rotation, the Guardians are banking heavily on player development miracles that may not arrive in time to save their 2026 campaign.
28. Arizona Diamondbacks
Philadelphia Phillies v Arizona Diamondbacks | Norm Hall/Getty Images
Grade: D+ Key Stat: Lost 2 key bullpen arms via free agency
The Snakes seem to have lost their bite. After a promising run, their offseason felt like a retreat, failing to replace critical bullpen innings and watching their rotation depth erode. The few flyers they took on bounce-back candidates feel like Band-Aids on a roster that required major surgery to keep pace with the juggernauts in the NL West.
27. Oakland Athletics
May 13, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Oakland Athletics shortstop Jacob Wilson (5) celebrates with teammates after hitting a two run homerun in the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Grade: C- Key Stat: Acquired 3 prospects for veteran assets
The rebuild continues in perpetuity. The A’s made their customary moves, flipping expensive veterans for lottery tickets, but failed to add any meaningful veteran presence to guide their young roster. It’s a rinse-and-repeat cycle that keeps the farm system stocked but leaves the big-league product looking thin and uninspired for yet another summer.
26. New York Yankees
Oct 2, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankee outfielders Cody Bellinger (35), Trent Grisham (12), and Aaron Judge (99) react following game three of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Grade: C Key Stat: Missed out on top 3 starting pitcher targets
In the Bronx, a “C” grade is a failure. The Yankees were linked to every big name but ultimately watched them sign elsewhere, settling for mid-tier options that raise the floor but don’t raise the ceiling. Relying on aging stars to stay healthy without a premier insurance policy is a gamble that could leave the Bleacher Creatures restless by July.
25. Chicago White Sox
Sep 27, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Chicago White Sox shortstop Colson Montgomery (12) celebrates with White Sox catcher Kyle Teel (8) after hitting a two run home run against the Washington Nationals during the fourth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Grade: C Key Stat: Signed 2 veteran innings-eaters
The South Siders are stuck in neutral. The additions of veteran arms to stabilize the rotation are sensible, but they lack the upside to truly move the needle in a division that is rapidly improving. It feels like a front office paralyzed by indecision, unwilling to fully tear it down but unable to build it up into a legitimate contender.
24. Detroit Tigers
Tigers right fielder Kerry Carpenter celebrates hitting a 2-run home run against Mariners with Javier Baez during the sixth inning of ALDS Game 5 at T-Mobile Park in Seattle on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025.
Grade: C+ Key Stat: Extended their young ace
Detroit took a step forward, but it was a baby step. Locking up their young pitching core was a smart, necessary move, but the offense still desperately needs a thump that wasn’t addressed. They are betting on internal growth from their prospects, which is a sound strategy, but a veteran bat would have significantly accelerated their timeline.
23. Colorado Rockies
Sep 26, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Colorado Rockies shortstop Ezequiel Tovar (14) celebrates with catcher Braxton Fulford (37) after batting him in on a three-run home run against the San Francisco Giants during the fifth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
Grade: C+ Key Stat: Added bullpen depth
For once, the Rockies didn’t make a baffling signing that crippled their flexibility. They focused on their eternal Achilles heel, pitching, and added some intriguing arms that might actually survive Coors Field. It wasn’t a splashy winter, but it was competent, which, by Colorado standards, is a marked improvement.
22. Tampa Bay Rays
Divisional Series – Houston Astros v Tampa Bay Rays – Game Four | Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images
Grade: C+ Key Stat: Traded from depth for high-upside AA prospects
Classic Tampa Bay. They churned the roster, trading expensive arbitration-eligible players for high-ceiling prospects who will likely be stars in 2028. It’s hard to grade them poorly because the system works, but for the 2026 product, they simply treaded water while the rest of the AL East added sharks.
21. Philadelphia Phillies
Oct 8, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) celebrates with Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Brandon Marsh (16) after scoring on a Los Angeles Dodgers throwing error during the fourth inning during game three of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Grade: C+ Key Stat: Re-signed key bullpen pieces
The Phillies ran it back. Instead of a major shakeup after a disappointing finish, they doubled down on their existing core, betting that health and regression to the mean would solve their problems. It’s a risky wager given the age of their stars, and the lack of a fresh dynamic element could make the clubhouse feel stale.
20. Houston Astros
Sep 28, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA; Houston Astros third baseman Ramon Urias (29), center, is greeted by teammates after hitting a home run during the fifth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
Grade: C+ Key Stat: Minor league depth signings
The dynasty is showing its age, and the front office didn’t do much to apply anti-aging cream. Houston’s winter was defined by depth moves rather than impact additions. They are trusting their player development machine to fill the gaps, but the margin for error is thinner than it has been in a decade.
19. Los Angeles Angels
Sep 26, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels and designated hitter Mike Trout (27) celebrate the victory against the Houston Astros at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Grade: C+ Key Stat: Signed reliable veteran starters
The Angels finally prioritized stability over star power. By bringing in reliable, if unspectacular, innings-eaters, they’ve raised their floor and given themselves a chance to be competitive. It’s not sexy, and it won’t win headlines, but it’s the kind of practical roster construction this franchise has ignored for too long.
18. San Diego Padres
Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., Division Series – Los Angeles Dodgers v San Diego Padres – Game Three | Tom Pennington/Getty Images
Grade: B- Key Stat: Shed $20M in payroll while adding utility depth
San Diego managed to trim the fat without cutting into the muscle. They navigated a tricky payroll situation by trading from their surplus to address bench depth. It wasn’t the “all-in” madness of years past, but a more mature, calculated approach that keeps their window open while balancing the books.
17. Kansas City Royals
Nov 1, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; Kansas City Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas (8) celebrates with first baseman Eric Hosmer (35) after defeating the New York Mets in game five of the World Series at Citi Field. The Royals won the World Series four games to one. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Grade: B Key Stat: Signed a middle-of-the-order bat
The Royals are sneaking up on people. Recognizing their window is opening, they went out and paid for a legitimate bat to protect their young superstar, Bobby Witt Jr. It signals a shift in philosophy from “wait and see” to “win now,” and that confidence alone is worth a solid grade.
16. Cincinnati Reds
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Brady Singer (51) is relieved during the fourth inning of their game against the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday, September 28, 2025 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Grade: B Key Stat: Fortified the starting rotation
Cincinnati identified its weakness (pitching inconsistency) and attacked it. The additions to the rotation give their electric young infield a chance to win games 4-3 rather than needing to win 9-8 every night. It’s a grown-up offseason for a team ready to graduate from “fun” to “good.”
15. Texas Rangers
Sep 28, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Texas Rangers second baseman Dylan Moore (25) celebrates after scoring during the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Grade: B Key Stat: Bullpen overhaul
The defending champs (a few years removed) didn’t rest on their laurels. They completely rebuilt a leaky bullpen with high-leverage arms, addressing the one flaw that held them back. It wasn’t flashy, but it effectively shortened games for 2026, making them a nightmare matchup in October.
14. Miami Marlins
Sep 19, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Miami Marlins catcher Brian Navarreto (70) celebrates with teammates after scoring during the twelfth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Grade: B Key Stat: Smart international signings
The Marlins continue to be the smartest guys in the room when it comes to international talent. Their under-the-radar acquisitions add speed and defense that fit their ballpark perfectly. They didn’t spend big, but they spent smart, maximizing every dollar in a way that should keep them pesky all season.
13. San Francisco Giants
May 18, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants outfielder Heliot Ramos (17) and San Francisco Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee (51) celebrate with their teammates after the game against the Oakland Athletics at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images
Grade: B Key Stat: Signed a Tier 2 free agent starter
The Giants didn’t land the whale, but they caught some very nice tuna. Adding a solid #2 starter to their rotation stabilizes the staff and takes pressure off their young arms. It’s a quintessential Giants offseason: competent, competitive, and solid, even if it lacks the “wow” factor.
12. St. Louis Cardinals
Sep 23, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; St. Louis Cardinals center fielder Victor Scott II (11) celebrates with teammates after their win over the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
Grade: B Key Stat: Veteran leadership additions
The Cardinals got back to “The Cardinal Way.” They brought in seasoned veterans who know how to win, stabilizing the clubhouse and providing mentorship for their emerging stars. It’s an unexciting formula, but history shows it’s a winning one in St. Louis.
11. Boston Red Sox
Sep 30, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Boston Red Sox catcher Carlos Narvaez (75) and relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (44) celebrate after defeating the New York Yankees in game one of the Wildcard round of the 2025 MLB playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Grade: B+ Key Stat: Aggressive trade for pitching
Boston finally woke up. The front office traded from a surplus of outfield prospects to land a frontline starter, a move that signals they are done with “bridge years.” Fenway Park will have a legitimate ace on the mound every fifth day, and that energy is contagious.
10. Milwaukee Brewers
Oct 11, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers third baseman Caleb Durbin (21) and first baseman Andrew Vaughn (28) celebrate after defeating the Chicago Cubs in game five of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Grade: B+ Key Stat: Extension of key young players
The Brewers lock up their core better than anyone. Instead of chasing expensive free agents, they extended their own, ensuring their window remains open for the next five years. It’s the kind of prudent, forward-thinking move that keeps Milwaukee atop the Central while others rebuild.
9. Atlanta Braves
Sep 22, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves third baseman Nacho Alvarez Jr. (67) and designated hitter Marcell Ozuna (20) celebrate after a victory over the Washington Nationals at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Grade: B+ Key Stat: Added power bat to the bench
The rich get richer. The Braves didn’t have many holes, so they reinforced their armor by adding a premier power bat to their bench. This depth ensures they are injury-proof and gives them the most dangerous pinch-hitting option in the National League.
8. Pittsburgh Pirates
Sep 27, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Henry Davis (32) celebrates with third base coach Mike Rabelo (58) after hitting a home run against the Atlanta Braves during the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Grade: A- Key Stat: Acquired 2B Brandon Lowe
The Pirates are officially trying. Trading for Brandon Lowe provides the legitimate power threat this lineup has starved for, signaling to the clubhouse and the fans that the rebuild is over. It’s a bold, winning move that transforms the Pirates from a nice story into a playoff threat.
7. Washington Nationals
Sep 22, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Washington Nationals shortstop Nasim Nunez (26) celebrates with third base coach Ricky Gutierrez (12) after a home run against the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Grade: A- Key Stat: Signed veteran ace to mentor young staff
Washington shocked everyone by landing a top-tier veteran starter. This isn’t just about innings; it’s about teaching their young rotation how to be professionals. It accelerates their timeline by a full year and gives them a legitimate shot at a Wild Card spot.
6. New York Mets
Sep 25, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; The New York Mets celebrate their win against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Grade: A- Key Stat: Signed Bo Bichette (Shortstop)
After missing out on the outfield market, Steve Cohen pivoted hard to secure Bo Bichette. It solves their shortstop question for the next decade and adds an elite bat-to-ball skill set to the lineup. It was an expensive pivot, but a necessary one that keeps the Mets firmly in the championship conversation.
5. Seattle Mariners
Oct 20, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh (29) celebrates with first baseman Josh Naylor (12) after hitting a home run in the fifth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game seven of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Grade: A- Key Stat: Traded for Luis Robert Jr.
Seattle finally got their superstar bat. The trade for Luis Robert Jr. gives them the dynamic center fielder they’ve coveted, balancing a lineup that was too strikeout-prone. Pairing his bat with that rotation makes the Mariners the most dangerous team no one wants to play in October.
4. Baltimore Orioles
Aug 8, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles players celebrate after a game against Oakland at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images
Grade: A Key Stat: Signed Zac Gallen (Ace)
The Orioles identified their one weakness, a true Game 1 ace, and filled it with one of the best in the business. Zac Gallen brings a Cy Young pedigree to a young, hungry team, completing a roster that now looks totally devoid of flaws. The AL East should be terrified.
3. Chicago Cubs
Oct 11, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki (27) celebrates with catcher Carson Kelly (15) after hitting a solo home run against the Milwaukee Brewers in the second inning during game five of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
Grade: A Key Stat: Signed Pete Alonso (1B)
Losing Kyle Tucker was a blow, but the Cubs’ pivot to Pete Alonso was masterful. They replaced the power instantly and added a personality that fits Wrigley Field like a glove. Alonso’s right-handed thump balances the lineup perfectly, and the Cubs proved they can take a punch and punch back harder.
2. Toronto Blue Jays
Oct 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) celebrates with third baseman Ernie Clement (22) after defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers in game five of the 2025 MLB World Series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Grade: A Key Stat: Signed Dylan Cease (7 years, $210M)
The Blue Jays were tired of being “almost” good enough. Dropping $210 million on Dylan Cease gives them the most feared rotation in the American League. It’s an aggressive, all-in move that screams “World Series or bust,” and frankly, with this roster, it might just be the World Series.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Nov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Enrique Hernandez (8) and second baseman Miguel Rojas (72) celebrate after a catch by center fielder Andy Pages (44) in the ninth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Grade: A+ Key Stat: Signed Kyle Tucker (4 years, $240M) & Edwin Diaz
Just when you thought it was safe to look at the Dodgers’ roster, they add the best hitter on the market. Kyle Tucker joins an already historic lineup, and adding Edwin Diaz to lock down the ninth inning is simply unfair. They have addressed every possible need with elite talent, earning the only A+ of the winter.
Play Ball
Nov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Bo Bichette (11) celebrates with right fielder George Springer (4) after hitting a three run home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the third inning during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
The grades are inked, the rosters are set, and the paper champions have been crowned. But as every baseball fan knows, offseason accolades dissolve the moment the umpire yells “Play Ball” on Opening Day. While the Dodgers and Orioles look like juggernauts on paper, the beauty of this sport lies in the 162-game grind that awaits. We’ll see you at the ballpark.
The Red Sox are continuing to see potential infield additions come off the board, and MassLive’s Chris Cotillo has thrown a new name to watch into the mix.
“The Red Sox have checked in throughout the winter on Ramón Urías but haven’t showed more than lukewarm interest,” Cotillo wrote on X on Monday.
Urías was traded from the Baltimore Orioles to the Houston Astros last summer. He is under club control for one more season and can play third base, second base and shortstop. He is a versatile defender and won a Gold Glove in 2022 at third base.
Urías is not the only Houston Astros infielder the Red Sox have been linked to. Isaac Paredes has been a rumored target as well. Urías had just a .675 OPS last season, hitting 11 home runs for the second consecutive season. Cotillo wrote more about Urías in a story published before his report.
“Urías regressed with the bat last year to the tune of a .675 OPS in 112 games split between Baltimore and Houston but was still a capable defender at both third base (78 games) and second (26 games),” Cotillo wrote. “He also has historically hit very well at Fenway, logging a .326 average and an .881 OPS in 28 games in Boston. At this point, Urías can likely be had on a reasonable one-year deal.”
He was non-tendered by the Astros after the season. He could be a solid addition for the Red Sox. With Eugenio Suárez and Brendan Donovan off the board, a player like Urías could be the best option.
It's a cool approach to take by Tampa Bay, which is never going to make many moves in free agency.
This is a way for them to slide into deals and add players that may be undervalued by other teams.
The Rays can use their own respected assets to bring in guys that they might need, or maybe players they can use down the road in a different three-team trade.
Other MLB teams at this point must know if they need a little bit to make a deal happen, they can just call the Rays.
They might worry the Rays are swindling them, but at the same time, Tampa Bay often greases the wheels to get these deals done.
The St. Louis Cardinals have finally traded Brendan Donovan away to complete their offseason fire sale.
In return, they get one of the most intriguing prospects in baseball, switch-pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje, a former first-round pick.
That's one of two reported players going to St. Louis in the deal, via the Seattle Times' Adam Jude, along with 2023 first-round pick Tai Peete, an outfielder
He pitched his first professional season in 2025, and the Mariners had him alternate outings, one righty, one lefty, for most of the season.
By the end, he focused mostly on his right-armed pitching, a side from which he has better stuff and put up better numbers.
The Mariners were already saying this spring they played to just have Cijntje throw right-handed in games while letting him be a southpaw in the bullpen.
The Detroit Tigers have completed their coaching staff assignments at the seven levels of the minor leagues for the 2026 season, with new managers at three of the top four affiliates.
One notable name is absent.
Longtime Tigers minor-league coach Andrew Graham didn't have his contract renewed after managing Double-A Erie in the 2025 season. The 43-year-old had worked for the Tigers since 2009, including his final 14 years as a manager throughout the farm system.
More than 20 years ago, the Tigers selected Graham, a catcher, in the 19th round of the 2003 draft from Armstrong State University. He never reached his MLB debut, topping out with 36 games in Triple-A Toledo in 2007.
He joined the Tigers as a coach in 2009.
Graham became the manager of the Connecticut Tigers in the now-defunct New York-Penn League in 2011 – and he has been a manager ever since. Aside from the Connecticut Tigers from 2011-13, he managed the West Michigan Whitecaps (2014-16), Lakeland Flying Tigers (2017, 2019-24) and Erie SeaWolves (2018, 2025).
Following Graham's departure from the organization, Cappuccilli advances from High-A to Double-A, Rivera moves up from Low-A to High-A and Salvador Paniagua makes the jump from Florida Complex League to Low-A, with Peña becoming the Florida Complex League manager after spending the past two seasons as a catching coordinator.
One of the new assistant coaches is Cole Roberts, the 25-year-old son of Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. He will be the bench coach under Rivera at the High-A level. The younger Roberts spent the past three seasons as a utility player in the minor leagues, including six games for Double-A Reading in the Philadelphia Phillies' organization in 2025.
Another new assistant coach is 34-year-old Nick Franklin, the No. 27 overall pick in the 2009 draft by the Seattle Mariners; he played 301 MLB games across parts of six seasons. Franklin will be the bench coach under Cappuccilli in Erie.
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Wells was born in Scottsdale, Arizona and he attended high school at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas before playing collegiately at the University of Arizona.
The Baltimore Orioles have had one of the best offseasons in the MLB, going from bottom-third team in the MLB, to a possible top contender in 2026. However, while they’ve addressed their offense, they’ve yet to get a proven stud to lead their pitching.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer proposes they solve that by trading with the Detroit Tigers for their two-time Cy Young, Tarik Skubal.
Tigers get: OF Dylan Beavers (MLB No. 69), RHP Trey Gibson, LHP Luis De Leon
“Though the Orioles are already one of the big winners of the offseason, they still haven't added the top-of-the-rotation starter that they need in front of Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish. Skubal is their best possible option, and the O's would not be kidding themselves if they reasoned that the time is right to go all-in on renting him. They may have finished in last place in 2025, but early projections for 2026 rate them as a top-10 team,” Rymer wrote.
This past season, Skubal posted a 13-6 record, a 2.21 ERA, 241 Ks, a WHIP of 0.891 in 195 innings pitched, and won second Cy Young. He’d become the ace of the rotation, have Trevor Rogers fresh off a breakout season behind him, as well as Kyle Bradish and Shane Baz in supporting roles.
There is one problem with this trade, Rymer notes. While the return is good, it doesn’t give the Tigers a pitcher that could replace Skubal. They don’t need another Skubal, just someone to lead the rotation, and the O’s don’t really have anyone to offer.
Hopefully, Baltimore finds a way to make this trade work, as it would make them a true favorite to win the American League.
After flying to Santa Clara on Sunday, the AFC champion New England Patriots officially kicked off Super Bowl Week ahead of their big showdown against the Seattle Seahawks.
Meanwhile, back in Boston, the Red Sox celebrated their annual “Truck Day” at Fenway Park.
The Red Sox loaded up their team equipment truck with 20,400 baseballs, 200 batting gloves, 200 helmets, 1,100 bats, 20 cases of bubble gum, and 60 cases of sunflower seeds. It will travel from 4 Jersey Street to Boston’s spring training facility in Fort Myers — a 1,440-mile drive.
The truck will deliver critical gear for the Red Sox, who officially kick off spring training on Feb. 10 with pitchers and catchers reporting next Tuesday.
Truck Day represents many things for Red Sox Nation. It’s a sign that the offseason is nearly over, spring training is about to begin, and baseball season isn’t far off.
Before long, the Red Sox will be playing baseball again, eager to begin their pursuit of another championship. Even though Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Monday, predicting six more weeks of winter, Truck Day means that spring is just around the corner.
The Tampa Bay Rays will play their home games at the renovated Tropicana Field in 2025, but there's no promise the club will improve with a return to its home ballpark.
They've made several additions to the roster this winter, but how impactful will they be? The Athletic's Jim Bowden sees them as a last-place team in the AL East and gave them a C+ grade for their offseason moves.
"The Rays made more trades than almost any other team, but it seemed like they acquired more quantity than quality...The Rays’ new ownership group made it clear, through the club’s actions, that they didn’t want to add significant salary to the payroll this offseason, instead emphasizing their efforts to get a new stadium," Bowden wrote Monday.
How the Rays can spend more on payroll in the future
Tampa Bay has signed three free agents with less than two weeks remaining until pitchers and catchers report to spring training. Outfielders Jake Fraley and Cedric Mullins signed one-year deals for $3 and $7 million, respectively, and left-hander Steven Matz agreed to a two-year contract worth $15 million.
Second baseman Gavin Lux was acquired from the Cincinnati Reds in a three-team trade, one of nine trades the Rays made this offseason.
As Bowden writes, the burning question for the Rays is whether a move to a new stadium can help them increase revenue. In turn, the organization would have more financial flexibility to use in free agency. For now, the front office seems poised to stick to a tight budget.
The Atlanta Braves are coming into the new season, looking to put to bed a miserable 2025. Injuries and inconsistent play led to them not making the postseason for the first time since 2017.
The front office has come out aggressively over the winter, filling holes. They bolstered their bullpen by re-signing Raisel Iglesias and coming to terms with ropbert suarez. They also signed Jorge Mateo, Mike Yastrzemski, and Ha-Seong Kim.
However, they still do have a glaring weakness to tackle. Atlanta could use another veteran presence in the starting rotation.
"The Braves have recently been linked to veteran starters Lucas Giolito and Chris Bassitt, and both would provide a workhorse veteran presence to a staff that has its fair share of injury concerns and unproven arms."
Reuter also mentions Chris Bassitt, but ultimately settles on Giolito in his Opening Day prediction.
Giolito, the former Chicago White Sox ace, did not pitch in 2024 after being diagnosed with a partially torn UCL and flexor tendon, but returned last season. He started 26 games for the Boston Red Sox, putting together a 10-4 record with a 3,41 ERA.
While he is coming off a good season, there are injury concerns here as well. He has had a few setbacks over the course of his career, but if he could stay healthy, he could be a steal for Atlanta.
Reuter could see Giolito working as Atlanta's No. 4 option, which should put them in a good spot to start the new season if a deal comes to fruition.
The Boston Red Sox have missed out on a lot of big free agents, and while they were able to snag an All-Star pitcher in Ranger Suarez, it seems if they want to upgrade offensively, they’ll need to do it through trade. Luckily, it seems a recurring trade partner could be up for one more trade.
According to Fansided’s Zachary Rotman, the Sox should link up with their old GM Chaim Bloom, and the St. Louis Cardinals for one last trade, this time for All-Star Brendan Donovan.
Cardinals get: LHP Payton Tolle (MLB No. 28 Prospect), LHP Kyle Harrison, RHP Juan Valera
“The Red Sox have arguably the most starting pitching depth in the league, even without Tolle and Harrison, and even without Tolle, Connelly Early is a high end, MLB-ready left-handed pitching prospect for them to be excited about. No, this absurd depth doesn't mean the Red Sox should just give Tolle away, but Donovan would be a major upgrade and fit what the team is reportedly looking for…Adding another left-handed hitter might be less-than-ideal, but Donovan checks every other box. After whiffing on impactful position player free agents like Pete Alonso, Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette, it's on Craig Breslow to be aggressive in the trade market. Parting with three starters they really don't need all that much to fill a glaring hole feels like an obvious move to make,” Rotman wrote.
This past season, Donovan slashed .287/.353/.422/.775 with 32 doubles, 10 home runs, and 64 RBI in 118 games played. He would fill the void at second base left by Dustin Pedroia, and fill it with a Gold Glove on top of his All-Star nod.
He’d be cheap too, as he’s slated to make $5.8 million this year, and has one more year of control left on his contract.
Hopefully, the Sox make this trade, and make sure not to lose him to free agency like Alex Bregman by signing him to an extension ASAP.
The 2026 MLB season is around the corner after next month’s World Baseball Classic and Livvy Dunne is helping out her superstar boyfriend as he prepares for both seasons.
Paul Skenes will represent Team USA in the WBC before returning to the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, many eyes will be on the young star after dominating in MLB during his first two seasons.
Paul Skenes will take the mound against some of the best hitters in the world in the WBC next month, but for now he's dicing up Livvy Dunne pic.twitter.com/WMbtfADbQB
Dunne stepped into the batter’s box with her significant other as he threw some heaters her direction. The former gymnastics star was clearly caught off guard by her reaction.
This shouldn’t come as a surprise though after Skenes finished his first two MLB seasons posting under-2.00 ERA.
Livvy Dunne in attendance during the 2025 MLB Home Run Derby. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Many MLB fans will be closely watching Skenes throughout the season not only for his on-field abilities, but also for the possibility of being traded to a bigger market. In 2025, rumors started to swirl about Skenes having interest in the New York Yankees.
We're less than two months from non-fake baseball. And almost every gain to be had over the winter has been spoken for.
With that, USA TODAY Sports rolls out its first power rankings for 2026, an alignment with many nods to the year that passed, yet allowances for all that transpired since the Los Angeles Dodgers converged in a disbelieving dogpile on the Rogers Centre infield, their consecutive World Series championships narrowly secured.
No, nobody "wins the winter," but it's impossible to ignore the many seismic shifts that unfolded. Check back around Opening Day, but for now, here's how Major League Baseball's 30 title hopefuls (well many have such hope) stack up:
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
If you think a threepeat is a fait accompli, keep in mind: These guys finished fifth in these here power rankings at the end of last season.
Ramos made his MLB debut in 2024 with 32 games with the White Sox, and he hit .202 with three home runs.
He got just four more games in the majors in 2025, going 2-for-12 (.167).
Ramos also struggled a bit at Triple-A Charlotte in 2025, so he's by no means a sure thing. At that level, he batted .216, although he did hit 17 doubles and 16 home runs while stealing 13 bases.
The year before in Triple-A, Ramos batted .263 with a .755 OPS, so that's more promising.
In his minor league career altogether, Ramos has a .757 OPS. He doesn't have great home run power, but he gets extra base hits and can steal a base here and there.
The Orioles won't need him to be a key major league contributor, but at his age, he's a smart guy to add in a low-risk way to see if they can help him reach his potential.
The usual suspects, Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes, are holding firm atop their respective leagues as betting favorites to win Cy Young awards in 2026.
However, there has been some intriguing movement, both in terms of trades and odds. MacKenzie Gore went from the Washington Nationals to the Texas Rangers via trade, and from +2000 to win the NL Cy Young to +4000 in the Junior Circuit.
The Milwaukee Brewers finally traded Freddy Peralta (to the New York Mets), and he's now +3000, which is equal to his former Brew Crew teammates, Brandon Woodruff and Jacob Misiorowski.
With Framber Valdez the biggest pitching domino left to fall, he's the last remaining free-agent arm who will likely crack either board upon his signing.
Let's look at the latest MLB odds for the 2026 MLB Cy Young races.
Here are the last 10 winners of the AL and NL Cy Young Award, with Detroit, Cleveland, Houston, Washington, and the New York Mets each leading the way with two. Overall, the Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers have the most Cy Youngs all time (12), followed by the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves with eight and the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, and Mets with seven apiece.
Previous AL Cy Young winners
Year
American League Winner
Tarik Skubal
2024
Tarik Skubal
2023
Gerrit Cole
2022
Justin Verlander
2021
Robbie Ray
2020
Shane Bieber
2019
Justin Verlander
2018
Blake Snell
2017
Corey Kluber
2016
Rick Porcello
Previous NL Cy Young winners
Year
National League Winner
Paul Skenes
2024
Chris Sale
2023
Blake Snell
2022
Sandy Alcantara
2021
Corbin Burnes
2020
Trevor Bauer
2019
Jacob deGrom
2018
Jacob deGrom
2017
Max Scherzer
2016
Max Scherzer
Pitchers with multiple Cy Young awards
Twenty-two pitchers have won multiple Cy Young Awards, led by Roger Clemens' seven trophies. Of those 22 winners, five are still active in the majors.
It's time to get your baseball fix before MLB spring training and the World Baseball Classic arrive on the scene.
The 2026 Caribbean Series takes place this week in Mexico, featuring five top teams from winter leagues around the region.
The 68th edition of the Serie del Caribe already has been mired in controversy. The tournament was originally supposed to be played in Venezuela, but other countries demanded a move due to political upheaval in the wake of the recent U.S. military operation there.
Guadalajara stepped in to host and Venezuela pulled out of the event in protest. To fill out of the field, two teams from the Mexican Pacific League will participate: champion Charros de Jalisco and runner-up Tomateros de Culiacan.
Those two and representatives from Puerto Rico and Panama will be looking to dethrone Dominican League champion Escogido, which beat Jalisco in last year's final.
Here's everything you need to know to watch this year's tournament.
The 2026 Caribbean Series will be broadcast by MLB Network, the second consecutive year of English-language coverage after a long absence. Fans can stream all the games live via Fubo.
Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
Caribbean Series 2026 teams
Dominican Republic: Leones del Escogido
Mexico Green: Tomateros de Culiacan
Mexico Red: Charros de Jalisco
Panama: Federales de Chiriqui
Puerto Rico: Cangrejeros de Santurce
The five teams will compete in a round robin to determine which four teams will advance to the semifinals. From there, the tournament follows a traditional single-elimination format.
Eugenio Suarez, who has hit 325 home runs over 12 MLB seasons, is back with the Cincinnati Reds.
Suarez, who hit 189 home runs over seven seasons with Reds from 2015 to 2021, agreed to a one-year, $15 million contract that includes a mutual option for the 2027 season, The Enquirer's Gordon Wittenmyer confirmed.
Suarez, who many considered the best free-agent bat still available this MLB offseason, is expected to get most of his at-bats with the Reds as a designated hitter, with Ke'Bryan Hayes remaining Cincinnati's everyday third baseman.
Suarez hit a career-best 49 homers for the Reds in 2019. He matched that season total by hitting 36 home runs last season for the Arizona Diamondbacks, in addition to 13 homers for Seattle after the Mariners traded for him at the deadline for three players.
Social media reactions to the Reds bringing back Suarez, including from Wittenmyer:
Sources confirm Eugenio Suarez returning to Reds on one-year $15 million deal (with $16m mutual option for 2027). Pending physical. Will mostly DH with ability to rotate in at 3B, 1B. It's the move that makes the Reds better on paper than 2025 and threat to division frontrunners.
Suarez was signed for his bat. He can be the designated hitter pretty much every day he's in the lineup.
CF - TJ Friedl RF - Noelvi Marte SS - Elly De La Cruz DH - Eugenio Suarez 1B - Sal Stewart LF - Spencer Steer C - Tyler Stephenson 2B - Matt McLain 3B - Ke’Bryan Hayes
Arráez's new deal with the Giants is worth $12 million, according to USA TODAY Sports' Bob Nightengale.
Arráez, who's nickname is "La Regadera" or "The Sprinkler," tallied 181 hits (best in the NL), 61 RBIs, and eight home runs with a .292 batting average in 2025.
He's played seven MLB seasons with the Minnesota Twins, Miami Marlins and Padres, racking up 1,028 hits, 169 doubles, 36 home runs, a .317 batting average and .777 OPS. He's added 31 stolen bases.
Three-time batting champion Luis Arraez signs one year $12 million deal with the San Francisco Giants to be their second baseman. @jorgecastillo on it.
The Philadelphia Phillies have taken a couple big hits this offseason, losing an ace in Ranger Suarez to the Boston Red Sox, and missing out on Bo Bichette when he signed with their division rival, the New York Mets. Plus, their core is an aging one, meaning their chance to win it all is getting smaller every season.
They need a blockbuster move, fast. Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer proposes the move they make is trading with the Detroit Tigers for their two-time Cy Young, Tarik Skubal.
“The Phillies are the team that should want to go all-out for one year of Skubal. Their aging core is running out of chances to win the World Series, so might as well make 'em count. Plus, are we sure the Phillies are solid in their rotation? Cristopher Sánchez is a legit top-of-the-rotation starter, but Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola have durability concerns and Jesús Luzardo is unpredictable. Ranger Suárez is, of course, gone,” Rymer wrote.
This past season, Skubal won his second Cy Young, and posted a 13-6 record, a 2.21 ERA, 241 Ks, and a WHIP of 0.891 in 195 innings pitched. He’d instantly become the ace of the rotation, and when Zack Wheeler returns, the Phillies would have an amazing 1-2-3 punch with Skubal, Wheeler, and Cristopher Sánchez.
The only problem with this trade, as Rymer mentions, is the fact the Tigers may not want to do it. Bohm is a decent third baseman, but his ceiling isn’t that high. Plus, Painter, who is the star of this trade, is coming off Tommy John surgery, so the confidence that he’ll be the top prospect he was might not be there for Detroit.
However, if Philly can find a way to make this trade work, they need to do it. Their championship window is closing, and they need to find a way to win, fast.
In 2025 combined, he batted .218 in 60 games with six doubles, one triple and one home run. He had a .638 OPS.
Thaiss is 30 years old now, a 5-foot-11, 215-pound catcher who bats left-handed.
The Red Sox have Carlos Narvaez lined up to be their starting catcher. Connor Wong is slated to be the backup catcher, but after a rough 2025 season for him, it seems like someone could take his spot with a strong spring. Maybe Thaiss will be that guy.
For one reason in particular, a return to the New York Yankees could be a logical one.
That reason: The Yankees need more right-handed hitting.
The Athletic's Brendan Kuty broke it down in a new article on Saturday. The lefty-swinging first baseman Ben Rice is just one of a bunch of left-handed bats in the lineup.
Goldschmidt, of course, bats right-handed, and he still hits lefties well.
"The Yankees might also be considering a righty hitter who can play first base to pair with Ben Rice... Last season, they had righty-hitting first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, who remains a free agent," Kuty writes.
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Tarik Skubal
Garrett Crochet 
Jacob deGrom
Cole Ragans
Hunter Brown
Max Fried 
Bryan Woo
Kyle Bradish 
Joe Ryan 
Dylan Cease 
Jose Soriano
Gavin Williams
Paul Skenes
Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Cristopher Sanchez
Chris Sale 
Hunter Greene 
Logan Webb
Zack Wheeler
Brandon Woodruff
Freddy Peralta 
Michael King
Eury Perez
Tarik Skubal
Blake Snell
Paul Skenes
Sandy Alcantara
Max Scherzer
