San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey isn't planning to trade closer...

<p>San Francisco Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey isn't planning to trade closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12516" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12516">Camilo Doval</a> this offseason.</p><p>"I have belief in him being important for us," Posey said Monday, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/PavlovicNBCS/status/1866219587492073683">Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area</a>.</p><p>Doval's name has been connected to trade rumors after a rocky 2024 campaign in which the one-time All-Star was sent down to the minors in August.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old registered a 5-3 record with a 4.88 ERA, 23 saves, and 78 strikeouts across 59 innings. Doval struggled with his command, allowing 5.9 walks per nine innings. </p><p>"I'm pretty bullish on him coming back," Posey said, per <a href="https://twitter.com/justdelossantos/status/1866221912214626436">Justice delos Santos of The Mercury News</a>. "This guy's got the potential to be a lockdown piece. We've seen it, right? He's got nearly 100 saves in the big leagues. That doesn't happen by accident."</p><p>Doval was excellent in 2023, racking up 39 saves with a 2.93 ERA and 11.6 K/9 in 69 appearances.</p>

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 13: Camilo Doval #75 of the San Francisco Giants pitches against the San Diego Padres at Oracle Park on September 13, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

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Posey: Giants not interested in trading Doval

The Detroit Tigers and veteran right-hander Alex Cobb agreed to a one-year contract, sources told...

<p>The Detroit Tigers and veteran right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1757" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1757">Alex Cobb</a> agreed to a one-year contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1866221414631514344">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Financial terms of the agreement are not yet known and the deal is pending a physical.</p><p>Cobb made three starts with the Cleveland Guardians last season, posting a 2-1 record with a 2.76 ERA and 1.04 WHIP after being traded to the Guardians from the San Francisco Giants.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 37-year-old will join a Tigers rotation that includes AL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15420">Reese Olson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10561" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10561">Casey Mize</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17680" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17680">Jackson Jobe</a>.</p><p>Cobb owns a career 3.84 ERA with 1,108 strikeouts across 13 MLB seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Angels, Giants, and Guardians.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - AUGUST 14: Cleveland Guardians starting pitcher Alex Cobb (35) delivers a pitch to the plate during the first inning of the Major League Baseball Interleague game between the Chicago Cubs and Cleveland Guardians on August 14, 2024, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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Report: Tigers, Cobb agree to 1-year deal

San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt thinks his club has a real chance to sign Japanese pitching ...

<p>San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt thinks his club has a real chance to sign Japanese pitching phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18692" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18692">Roki Sasaki</a>.</p><p>"We should be very legitimate contenders," Shildt told <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBNetworkRadio/status/1866200208805417314">MLB Network Radio</a> on Monday. "We fully expect to be right in the mix, and actually at the end of the day have Sasaki a Padre."</p><p>The Chiba Lotte Marines of Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball League officially posted Sasaki. MLB teams can negotiate with Sasaki until Jan. 23. The 23-year-old is expected to officially sign after Jan. 15 when the 2025 international signing period begins.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"The organization's done a tremendous job of making sure that we're relevant internationally," Shildt said.</p><p>The Padres already have two Japanese players on the roster in veteran right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2901" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2901">Yu Darvish</a> and left-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17233" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17233">Yuki Matsui</a>.</p><p>"We've got a lot of in-roads to get to Sasaki and make that happen, and I know we're going to put the full-court press ... and we're very optimistic," Shildt said.</p><p>The Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, New York Mets, and San Francisco Giants are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3152821" href="https://thescore.com/news/3152821">reportedly</a> expected to be among Sasaki's other most serious suitors.</p><p>Sasaki was excellent during four seasons in Japan's top professional league, posting a 29-15 record with a sparkling 2.10 ERA and 11.5 K/9 across 64 appearances. He also looked sharp at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, registering a 3.52 ERA with 11 strikeouts in two starts.</p>

TOKYO, JAPAN - MARCH 08: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan poses during the 2023 WBC Workout Day Tokyo at Tokyo Dome on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 in Tokyo, Japan.

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Shildt: Padres should be 'legitimate contenders' to sign Sasaki

Mercedes principal Toto Wolff apologized for a mistake that led to Lewis Hamilton failing to adva...

<p>Mercedes principal Toto Wolff apologized for a mistake that led to Lewis Hamilton failing to advance past Q1 in his final race with the team.</p><p>Hamilton will start Sunday's race in 16th place after a bollard, which was knocked loose by Haas' Kevin Magnussen, got stuck under his car.</p><p>"I rarely have been so down about what has happened," Wolff said, per <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5976435/2024/12/07/toto-wolff-lewis-hamilton-mercedes-qualifying-exit/?utm_medium=social&amp;amp;utm_campaign=twhq&amp;amp;source=twitterhq">The Athletic's Luke Smith</a>. "Maybe (it) summarizes the last races we had with him, but this is the worst part of it, because … it was just idiotic."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hamilton is set to join Ferrari for the 2025 F1 season. The 39-year-old has won six world championships since joining Mercedes in 2013.</p><p>"It doesn't ruin all the legacy we have with him, but … I can only say sorry to him," Wolff said.</p><p>18-year-old Italian phenom Andrea Kimi Antonelli will take Hamilton's seat alongside George Russell at Mercedes next season.</p>

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - MAY 08: Mercedes-AMG Petronas Team Principal & CEO Toto Wolff and Mercedes-AMG Petronas driver Lewis Hamilton (right) talk prior to the start of the Formula 1 CRYPTO.COM Miami Grand Prix on May 8, 2022 at Miami Autodrome in Miami Gardens, FL.

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Wolff apologizes to Hamilton for 'idiotic' qualifying mistake

Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki is expected to be officially posted at the upcoming MLB winter meetin...

<p>Japanese phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18692" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18692">Roki Sasaki</a> is expected to be officially posted at the upcoming MLB winter meetings, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/42833289/sources-roki-sasaki-expected-posted-winter-meetings">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>The posting will open a 45-day window for teams to negotiate with Sasaki before the international amateur signing period begins Jan. 15.</p><p>The 23-year-old right-hander will only be eligible to receive a modest contract as a foreign pro under the age of 25 with less than six years of experience. The situation is similar to the Los Angeles Angels signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> in 2017.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="2025 Bonus Pools" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-n1OZs" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/n1OZs/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1545" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();</figure><p>Buzz surrounding Sasaki has grown across the globe ever since his unprecedented 19-strikeout perfect game in 2022. This past season, he went 10-5 with a 2.35 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 129 strikeouts, and one complete game with only two homers allowed over 18 starts for the Marines. He was limited to 111 innings because of arm fatigue.</p></script></figure><p>Teams can grow or shrink their pools by including international bonus money in trades but can't exceed 50% beyond the bonus pool limit, per the collective bargaining agreement.</p><p>The Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, New York Mets, and San Francisco Giants are expected to be among the most serious suitors for Sasaki, according to Passan.</p><p>Sasaki was excellent during four seasons in Japan's top professional league, posting a 29-15 record with a sparkling 2.10 ERA and 11.5 K/9 across 64 appearances. He also looked sharp at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, registering a 3.52 ERA with 11 strikeouts in two starts.</p>

BUNKYO CITY, JAPAN - MARCH 11: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan poses for a photo after their Game 6 of Pool B win over Team Czech Republic at Tokyo Dome on Saturday, March 11, 2023 in Bunkyo City, Japan.

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Report: Sasaki to be posted at MLB winter meetings

The New York Yankees have shown interest in acquiring former San Francisco Giants infielder Thair...

<p>The New York Yankees have shown interest in acquiring former San Francisco Giants infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8409" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8409">Thairo Estrada</a>, a source told <a href="https://twitter.com/Feinsand/status/1865409296886083967">MLB.com's Mark Feinsand</a>.</p><p>The Colorado Rockies are also interested in Estrada, <a href="https://twitter.com/harding_at_mlb/status/1865182106185535655">MLB.com's Thomas Harding</a> reports.</p><p>Estrada spent the last four seasons with the Giants after he was acquired in a trade with the Yankees in 2021. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Estrada struggled at the plate in 2024, posting a 64 wRC+ with nine home runs, 43 runs scored, and 47 RBIs across 96 games. He put together strong seasons in 2022 and 2023, combining to hit 28 home runs with 48 doubles and a .727 OPS in 1,071 plate appearances.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - AUGUST 27: Thairo Estrada #39 of the San Francisco Giants bats in the fifth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on August 27, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Report: Yankees, Rockies showing interest in ex-Giant Estrada

McLaren's Lando Norris will start on pole for Sunday's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. His teammate Oscar P...

<p>McLaren's Lando Norris will start on pole for Sunday's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. His teammate Oscar Piastri will start second as the team looks to secure the constructors' championship.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Abu Dhabi GP Qualifying" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8LPwS" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8LPwS/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1040" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>McLaren enters Sunday's race with a 21-point lead over Ferrari in the standings as the team looks to secure its first constructors' title since 1998.</p><p>"It was hard just to break that barrier of getting close to Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull, because for such a long period of time, they've been the guys who have dominated Formula 1," Norris said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/f1-abu-dhabi-qualifying-lewis-hamilton-64a4c1577dbc47439d682ca0d6e5c794">The Associated Press</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ferrari's Charles Leclerc had his lap deleted in Q2 for exceeding track limits and will start Sunday's race in last place after receiving a 10-place grid penalty for a battery pack change.</p><p>Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton failed to advance past Q1 in his final race with the team before he joins Ferrari.</p>

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE - SEPTEMBER 21: Pole position qualifier Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren celebrates in parc ferme during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Singapore at Marina Bay Street Circuit on September 21, 2024 in Singapore, Singapore.

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Norris takes pole for Abu Dhabi GP after eventful qualifying

Commissioner Rob Manfred isn't expecting the golden at-bat rule to be instituted in MLB in the ne...

<p>Commissioner Rob Manfred isn't expecting the golden at-bat rule to be instituted in MLB in the near future. </p><p>The rule would give each team one opportunity per contest to send any hitter in the lineup to the plate, even if it's not that player's turn in the order.</p><p>"To go from the conversation stage to this actually showing up in MLB is a very long road," Manfred said Thursday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/42817902/rob-manfred-says-golden-bat-rule-not-coming-mlb-soon">ESPN's Jesse Rogers</a>. "You don't like the idea? I wouldn't be too concerned about it right now."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>MLB has been more open to making changes to the game over the past few years under Manfred's leadership. The league adopted the universal designated hitter, implemented a pitch clock, and is planning to test a challenge system at this year's spring training.</p><p>Despite some growing buzz surrounding the golden at-bat rule, Manfred reiterated that he doesn't want to bring it to MLB.</p><p>"It has come out that I have spoken publicly about this kind of change years ago, that I was not particularly in favor of it," Manfred said. "That remains the case."</p><p>Manfred's current five-year contract runs through the 2028 season and he has publicly said that he expects to step down in January 2029.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 17: Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred speaks to the media after Owners Meetings at MLB Headquarters on Thursday, November 17, 2022 in New York, New York.

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Manfred: Golden at-bat rule not coming to MLB anytime soon

The Tampa Bay Rays and veteran catcher Danny Jansen agreed to a one-year contract worth $8.5 mill...

<p>The Tampa Bay Rays and veteran catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5445" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5445">Danny Jansen</a> agreed to a one-year contract worth $8.5 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/1865096268009329094">FanSided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>Jansen is no stranger to the AL East, spending parts of the first seven seasons of his career with the Toronto Blue Jays before a trade to the Boston Red Sox in July.</p><p>The 29-year-old will likely form a catching tandem with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8210" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8210">Ben Rortvedt</a> in Tampa Bay. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Jansen struggled offensively in 2024, registering an 87 OPS+ with nine home runs and 24 RBIs in 92 games. He was excellent at blocking pitches behind the plate but struggled to throw runners out and frame pitches.</p><p>Jansen's best season came in 2022 when he hit 15 home runs with 44 RBIs and an .855 OPS in 248 plate appearances.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - AUGUST 15: Danny Jansen #28 of the Boston Red Sox bats against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 15, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Report: Rays, Danny Jansen agree to 1-year, $8.5M deal

Colorado Rockies owner Dick Monfort responded to an email from a fan asking if there was any chan...

<p>Colorado Rockies owner Dick Monfort responded to an email from a fan asking if there was any chance the team might look at signing star free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>.</p><p>"He has said publicly he wants to stay on East Coast," Monfort responded.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I can confirm that the Colorado Rockies are indeed OUT in regards to the Juan Soto chase, but not for the reasons you'd expect <a href="https://t.co/LdMzGTJV4c">pic.twitter.com/LdMzGTJV4c</a></p>— Kevin (Only Bo Nix can save us now) (@_Kevlar23_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_Kevlar23_/status/1864793653845111113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Rockies had the 17th-highest payroll in 2024 at just over $146 million. Monfort signed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4221" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4221">Kris Bryant</a> to a seven-year, $182-million contract in 2022, the largest free-agent deal in franchise history. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a>'s seven-year, $234-million contract extension signed in 2019 is the largest contract in Rockies history.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The New York Yankees, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly among the teams to meet with and offer Soto a contract in excess of $600 million.</p>

DENVER, CO - MAY 10: Colorado Rockies owner Dick Monfort looks on before a game between the Texas Rangers and the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field on May 10, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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Rockies owner responds to email about Soto: 'He wants to stay on East Coast'

The hot stove is off to a slow start this offseason. Most of the big-name free agents remain unsi...

<p>The hot stove is off to a slow start this offseason. Most of the big-name free agents remain unsigned, but a few notable moves have been made by teams looking to get a jump on the market.</p><p>We take a look at some of the offseason's early signings and hand out a grade for each.</p><h3>Blake Snell ➡️ Dodgers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758707/cropped_GettyImages-2188105693.jpg?ts=1733267985" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758707/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188105693.jpg?ts=1733267985 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758707/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188105693.jpg?ts=1733267985 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758707/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188105693.jpg?ts=1733267985 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758707/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188105693.jpg?ts=1733267985 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758707/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188105693.jpg?ts=1733267985 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: A</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Snell wasted little time cashing in this year after signing well into spring training last season. The 32-year-old landed a five-year, $182-million contract with $66 million deferred as the Dodgers continue to aggressively augment what is already the most talented roster in the major leagues.</p><p>The Dodgers were forced to rely on bullpen games during the postseason after a number of injuries left the rotation thin. The team was still able to win the World Series, but reinforcements were heavily needed heading into next season. Snell has some durability concerns but remains one of the game's most talented pitchers when healthy.</p><p>Snell struggled in the first half of 2024, which can likely be blamed on signing so late, posting a 6.31 ERA in eight starts for the Giants before the All-Star break. He quickly rebounded, emerging as one of the game's best pitchers down the stretch, posting a 5-0 record with a sparkling 1.45 ERA and 103 strikeouts across 68 1/3 innings in the second half of the season. </p><p>The Dodgers added Snell to perform under the bright lights in October. They're just hoping he can find a way to be healthy when the postseason rolls around. If so, they should be happy with what he brings to the table.</p><h3>Luis Severino ➡️ Athletics</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/cropped_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w220xh124_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w320xh180_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w640xh360_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w768xh432_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/634913/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2158025446.jpg?ts=1719595612 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Hunger / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: C</strong></p><p>The Athletics pulled off a stunner Thursday, reportedly inking right-hander Luis Severino to a three-year, $67-million deal. The agreement is the largest in team history and comes with the franchise set to play the next three seasons in a minor-league park in West Sacramento. It wasn't a guarantee the A's would spend, and it appears they had to overpay to convince one of the better free agents to move to a temporary home. The right-hander is coming off a bounce-back season where he posted a 3.91 ERA across 182 innings. Who knows if this moves the needle in a positive direction for the A's, but Severino's presence - along with Brent Rooker, Lawrence Butler and some intriguing youngsters - should give fans in the team's temporary home more reason to come to the ballpark. Still, it's nice to see the A's spend.</p><h3>Yusei Kikuchi ➡️ Angels</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742994/cropped_GettyImages-2166916207.jpg?ts=1724943920" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742994/w220xh124_GettyImages-2166916207.jpg?ts=1724943920 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742994/w320xh180_GettyImages-2166916207.jpg?ts=1724943920 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742994/w640xh360_GettyImages-2166916207.jpg?ts=1724943920 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742994/w768xh432_GettyImages-2166916207.jpg?ts=1724943920 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742994/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2166916207.jpg?ts=1724943920 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: C</strong></p><p>The Angels' active offseason included handing Kikuchi a three-year, $63-million deal. The southpaw earned that contract after a terrific 10-game stint with Houston where he posted a 2.70 ERA and 11.4 K/9 following his acquisition from the Toronto Blue Jays. Kikuchi possesses great stuff and strikes out hitters with the best of them - seventh among qualified starters in 2024 - which should help an Angels rotation that had the third-highest ERA in baseball last season. It's still unclear if Perry Minasian's offseason strategy of adding veterans such as Kikuchi to L.A.'s young core will help it improve upon a 99-loss season, so this feels like an overpay for a team that is still trying to climb out of a hole.</p><h3>Aroldis Chapman ➡️ Red Sox</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625356/cropped_GettyImages-2147631249.jpg?ts=1713477144" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625356/w220xh124_GettyImages-2147631249.jpg?ts=1713477144 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625356/w320xh180_GettyImages-2147631249.jpg?ts=1713477144 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625356/w640xh360_GettyImages-2147631249.jpg?ts=1713477144 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625356/w768xh432_GettyImages-2147631249.jpg?ts=1713477144 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625356/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2147631249.jpg?ts=1713477144 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Berl / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: B</strong></p><p>Chapman parlayed a strong season with the Pittsburgh Pirates into a one-year, $10.75-million contract from the Red Sox. The 36-year-old could slide into the closer's role left vacant by Kenley Jansen. Chapman can still approach 100 mph with his fastball and piled up 14.3 K/9 in 2024. It will be interesting to see if Chapman ends up earning the ninth-inning responsibility over Liam Hendriks, who's set to return after missing the entire 2024 campaign because of Tommy John surgery. On the whole, adding Chapman is a fairly low-risk move for Red Sox executive Craig Breslow that could pay nice dividends in 2025.</p><h3>Frankie Montas ➡️ Mets</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753668/cropped_GettyImages-2176264936.jpg?ts=1733111881" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753668/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176264936.jpg?ts=1733111881 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753668/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176264936.jpg?ts=1733111881 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753668/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176264936.jpg?ts=1733111881 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753668/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176264936.jpg?ts=1733111881 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753668/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176264936.jpg?ts=1733111881 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Fisher / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: B-</strong></p><p>The Mets entered the offseason needing to replace Severino, Sean Manaea, and Jose Quintana from last season's rotation. The first domino to fall came in the form of a two-year, $34-million contract for Montas. The right-hander had an uneven season with the Cincinnati Reds and Milwaukee Brewers in 2024. However, Montas' stuff graded out well with his splitter generating an encouraging amount of whiffs. Montas has the talent to be a difference-maker, and the Mets are certainly hoping he can have the same success that Manaea and Severino did as reclamation projects in 2024.</p><h3>Matthew Boyd ➡️ Cubs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758457/cropped_GettyImages-2178235450.jpg?ts=1733144949" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758457/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178235450.jpg?ts=1733144949 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758457/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178235450.jpg?ts=1733144949 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758457/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178235450.jpg?ts=1733144949 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758457/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178235450.jpg?ts=1733144949 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758457/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178235450.jpg?ts=1733144949 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mary DeCicco / Major League Baseball / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: D</strong></p><p>It looks like the Cubs are buying into Boyd's upside, handing him a two-year, $29-million deal after he threw just 39 2/3 innings last season and didn't have a job until June. The 33-year-old looked good in limited duty for the Cleveland Guardians - he was also terrific in 11 2/3 postseason innings - but this deal comes with risk. Boyd's only pitched 124 innings since 2022 and underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2023. The Cubs could have used an internal option like Ben Brown to replace departing free agent Kyle Hendricks in the rotation instead of Boyd, while spending the $29 million to improve other areas of need such as a bullpen that finished 25th in win probability added and lacks a legitimate ninth-inning option.</p><h3>Dodgers extend Tommy Edman</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750924/cropped_GettyImages-2178955264.jpg?ts=1729482866" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750924/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178955264.jpg?ts=1729482866 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750924/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178955264.jpg?ts=1729482866 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750924/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178955264.jpg?ts=1729482866 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750924/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178955264.jpg?ts=1729482866 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750924/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178955264.jpg?ts=1729482866 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Grade: A-</strong></p><p>Edman hadn't played a game last season when the Dodgers picked him up in a three-team trade in July, but he was a perfect fit once he got on the field. The versatile 29-year-old played four different positions in the infield and outfield, and he put his permanent stamp on L.A. with a memorable postseason where he won NLCS MVP then proceeded to post a .988 OPS in the Fall Classic. The Dodgers pride themselves on employing position players who can move all over the field, and finding one of Edman’s caliber for $14.8 million per season over five years felt like a bargain for the champs considering the New York Yankees paid an aging DJ LeMahieu - who possesses a similar skillset to Edman - a higher AAV over six years in 2021.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 03: Blake Snell poses for a picture with Dodgers executives Brandon Gomes and Andrew Friedman and agent Scott Boras during a press conference introducing him as a Los Angeles Dodger at Dodger Stadium on December 03, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Grading the early MLB offseason moves

The Houston Astros offered free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman a six-year contract worth around...

<p>The Houston Astros offered free-agent third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman </a>a six-year contract worth around $156 million, a source told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/alex-bregman-chances-of-returning-to-astros">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a>.</p><p>Bregman is looking for a deal that's worth closer to $200 million, McTaggart reports.</p><p>The $156 million would be an Astros franchise record; <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a>'s $151-million contract extension in 2018 is the largest commitment in team history. Astros owner Jim Crane hasn't signed a free agent to a term longer than five years since taking control of the club in 2011.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"He's got the right to do what he thinks is best for him and his family and that's also important," Astros manager Joe Espada said Tuesday of Bregman. "He knows that we support him, we love him here in Houston. He's helped us win some championships and a lot of baseball games. He's also a guy that has done a lot for this community and that means a lot to me and this organization. Hopefully we can get it done."</p><p>The Astros have discussed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> as an option at third base or instead improving at first base, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3836" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3836">Christian Walker</a> emerging as a potential target, McTaggart reports.</p><p>Bregman spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Astros. The 30-year-old won a pair of World Series titles, made two All-Star appearances, and posted a 132 OPS+ across 1,111 games.</p><p>Bregman slashed .260/.315/.453 with 26 home runs, 30 doubles, and 75 RBIs in 145 games in 2024.</p>

HOUSTON, TX - OCTOBER 23: Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros fields a ball during Game 7 of the ALCS between the Texas Rangers and the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on Monday, October 23, 2023 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Astros offered Bregman 6-year, $156M contract

St. Louis Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak is planning to keep All-Star c...

<p>St. Louis Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak is planning to keep All-Star closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a> despite trade speculation.</p><p>"It’s something we will always remain open-minded to, but our plan is to have him be part of our organization," Mozeliak told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5971884/2024/12/05/mlb-what-im-hearing-cardinals-blue-jays/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a> on Thursday.</p><p>Helsley has one year of team control remaining and has been linked to trade rumors this offseason. The 30-year-old is projected to earn $6.9 million in his final season of arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Helsley recently <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3147710" href="https://thescore.com/news/3147710">admitted</a> he was uncertain of his future with the franchise after conversations with the front office.</p><p>The right-hander made his second All-Star team in 2024 and led MLB with 49 saves. Helsley owns a career 2.63 ERA with 84 saves and 10.7 K/9 across six seasons.</p>

ST LOUIS, MO - AUGUST 04: Ryan Helsley #56 of the St. Louis Cardinals looks on during a game against the Chicago Cubs in game one of a double header at Busch Stadium on August 4, 2022 in St Louis, Missouri.

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Mozeliak: Cardinals plan to hang onto Helsley

The Athletics and veteran right-hander Luis Severino agreed to a two-year contract with a player ...

<p>The Athletics and veteran right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4775" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4775">Luis Severino</a> agreed to a two-year contract with a player option for the 2027 season, the club announced Friday.</p><p>The contract will pay Severino $67 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1864727239813746875">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>The $67-million guarantee is the largest in Athletics history, surpassing Eric Chavez's six-year, $66-million deal signed in 2004.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Severino would receive a $500K assignment bonus if he were traded. <a href="https://t.co/x0juFIOPTT">https://t.co/x0juFIOPTT</a></p>— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Joelsherman1/status/1864728900003049544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Athletics also made a big offer to free-agent left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4239">Sean Manaea</a> before agreeing to a deal with Severino, <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1864770789280477290">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>The New York Mets will receive draft-pick compensation after extending Severino a qualifying offer earlier in the offseason. Severino had a nice rebound season for the Mets in 2024, posting an 11-7 record with a 3.91 ERA and 161 strikeouts across 182 innings. The 30-year-old was a strong contributor during New York's run to the NLCS, registering a 3.24 ERA across three postseason starts.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you new york <a href="https://twitter.com/Mets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mets</a> fans for all the support all year long. Thank you mets staff and front office for everything. I will forever be grateful for an incredible season. <a href="https://t.co/Eb7DssNoIy">pic.twitter.com/Eb7DssNoIy</a></p>— Luis Severino (@LuisSeverino94) <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSeverino94/status/1864746277554032994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Severino will look to lead an Athletics rotation that also includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13688">JP Sears</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17197" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17197">Joey Estes</a>, <a href="http://634913">Mitch Spence</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16396" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16396">J.T. Ginn</a>. The Athletics will play home games in Sacramento in 2025 as they await an eventual move to Las Vegas.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 06: Luis Severino #40 of the New York Mets throws during the fifth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies in Game Two of the Division Series at Citizens Bank Park on October 06, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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A's land Severino on 3-year deal reportedly worth $67M

Mercedes principal Toto Wolff had some choice words for Red Bull's Christian Horner amid the dram...

<p>Mercedes principal Toto Wolff had some choice words for Red Bull's Christian Horner amid the drama between Max Verstappen and George Russell.</p><p>"Yapping little terrier. Always something to say," Wolff said Thursday, per <a href="https://www.espn.co.uk/f1/story/_/id/42792891/abu-dhabi-gp-toto-wolff-labels-christian-horner-yapping-little-terrier">ESPN's Nate Saunders</a>.</p><p>He added: "I think as a team principal, it's important to be a sparring partner for your drivers."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Russell and Verstappen recently traded barbs, with the Mercedes star claiming the four-time F1 champion threatened to intentionally injure him after the two visited stewards about an incident during qualifying at last weekend's Qatar Grand Prix.</p><p>Verstappen still won the race despite receiving a grid penalty that cost him pole position. Russell finished fourth.</p><p>"Yesterday's penalty was more based on hysterics from George, who has been quite hysterical this weekend," Horner said postrace.</p><p>The rivalry between Mercedes and Red Bull has simmered since the historic battle between Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton in 2021. Red Bull has separated itself from Mercedes in the standings over the past few seasons.</p><p>"There is a thing between drivers, and this is George and Max, and I don't want to get involved in that, but if the other team principal calls George hysterical, this is where he crosses a line for me," Wolff said. "Now, his forte for sure is not intellectual psychoanalysis, but that's quite a word. How dare you comment on the state of mind of my driver."</p><p>The Formula 1 season concludes with Sunday's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.</p>

Mattia Binotto, Christian Horner and Toto Wolf during the Formula 1 Pirelli Gran Premio d'Italia 2022 on September 11th, 2022 in Monza, Italy

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Wolff rips Horner amid Verstappen-Russell drama: 'Yapping little terrier'

The Toronto Blue Jays held an in-person meeting with star right-hander Corbin Burnes, MLB Network...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays held an in-person meeting with star right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBNetwork/status/1864680896822919570">MLB Network's Jon Morosi</a> reports.</p><p>Burnes is one of the premier starting pitchers on the free-agent market. The 30-year-old spent the 2024 campaign with the Baltimore Orioles, posting a 15-9 record with a 2.92 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and 181 strikeouts across 194 1/3 innings.</p><p>The Blue Jays are reportedly among a group of teams in the running for star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> but have also been keeping tabs on the pitching market. Toronto has also reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3121053" href="https://thescore.com/news/3121053">checked</a> in on free-agent left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Blue Jays are currently projected to enter the 2025 season with a starting rotation that includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12435" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12435">Bowden Francis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17237">Yariel Rodríguez</a>.</p><p>Bassitt is scheduled to become a free agent at the end of 2025, while Gausman's contract expires following the 2026 campaign. Berríos can also opt out of the final two years of his seven-year deal at the conclusion of the 2026 season.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 28: Corbin Burnes #39 of the Baltimore Orioles pitches against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the first inning at Dodger Stadium on August 28, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Report: Blue Jays held in-person meeting with Burnes

This year's winter meetings are rapidly approaching as players, agents, and team executives gathe...

<p>This year's winter meetings are rapidly approaching as players, agents, and team executives gather in Dallas.</p><p>Here, we take a look at some players who could come up in trade conversations at this year's meetings and some teams that are likely to show interest.</p><h3>Garrett Crochet</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754219/cropped_GettyImages-2149318473.jpg?ts=1731076679" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754219/w220xh124_GettyImages-2149318473.jpg?ts=1731076679 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754219/w320xh180_GettyImages-2149318473.jpg?ts=1731076679 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754219/w640xh360_GettyImages-2149318473.jpg?ts=1731076679 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754219/w768xh432_GettyImages-2149318473.jpg?ts=1731076679 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754219/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2149318473.jpg?ts=1731076679 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jamie Sabau / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>ERA+</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>3.58</td>
<td>146</td>
<td>209</td>
<td>115</td>
<td>2.69</td>
<td>1.07</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Orioles, Phillies, Red Sox</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Crochet is the crown jewel on this offseason's trade market. The left-hander emerged as a dominant starting pitcher in 2024, registering a 3.02 ERA with 150 strikeouts across 107 1/3 innings en route to earning his first career All-Star nod. The White Sox managed Crochet's innings down the stretch and decided not to trade him at the deadline despite rumors connecting him to a handful of teams.</p><p>The 25-year-old is arbitration-eligible for another two seasons before he's scheduled to hit free agency. It's fair to assume any interested teams would want to work out an extension with Crochet to keep the ascending pitcher in the fold for the long haul.</p><h3>Devin Williams</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749351/cropped_GettyImages-2175522530.jpg?ts=1728587327" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749351/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175522530.jpg?ts=1728587327 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749351/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175522530.jpg?ts=1728587327 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749351/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175522530.jpg?ts=1728587327 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749351/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175522530.jpg?ts=1728587327 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749351/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175522530.jpg?ts=1728587327 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>ERA+</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1.25</td>
<td>21.2</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>341</td>
<td>2.06</td>
<td>0.97</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Blue Jays, Rangers, D-Backs</p><p>Williams continues to rank among the game's elite closers. His postseason struggles are well-documented, but the good largely outweighs the bad when it comes to the 30-year-old right-hander. Williams ranks among the league leaders for relief pitchers in ERA (1.70), K/9 (14.64), and fWAR since the start of the 2020 season. He put together another excellent season in 2024 after missing the first half with a back injury, posting a 1.25 ERA, 15.78 K/9 and 14 saves in 22 appearances.</p><p>Williams has one year of team control remaining before hitting free agency and is projected to make $7.7 million in arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>. With Milwaukee still aiming to be competitive, there's a chance they hang on to Williams until the trade deadline. </p><h3>Yandy Díaz </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/593010/cropped_GettyImages-1697577956.jpg?ts=1695505349" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/593010/w220xh124_GettyImages-1697577956.jpg?ts=1695505349 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/593010/w320xh180_GettyImages-1697577956.jpg?ts=1695505349 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/593010/w640xh360_GettyImages-1697577956.jpg?ts=1695505349 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/593010/w768xh432_GettyImages-1697577956.jpg?ts=1695505349 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/593010/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1697577956.jpg?ts=1695505349 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>145</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>65</td>
<td>.755</td>
<td>1.9</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Astros, Yankees, Nationals</p><p>Díaz was rumored to be on the move at the deadline before the Rays ultimately decided to keep him. The 33-year-old regressed at the plate in 2024 after winning the AL batting title the previous season. Díaz still enjoyed a productive campaign on the whole, hitting .281 with 14 home runs, 65 RBIs, 31 doubles, and a 116 OPS+ in 145 games. He owns a career .806 OPS and consistently shows elite plate discipline and contact skills. </p><p>Díaz is slated to earn $10 million in 2025 and has a $12-million club option for 2026. That's a very reasonable price for a quality first baseman that has been a strong producer throughout his eight-year career.</p><h3>Nolan Arenado</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756602/cropped_GettyImages-2170712716.jpg?ts=1732223966" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756602/w220xh124_GettyImages-2170712716.jpg?ts=1732223966 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756602/w320xh180_GettyImages-2170712716.jpg?ts=1732223966 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756602/w640xh360_GettyImages-2170712716.jpg?ts=1732223966 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756602/w768xh432_GettyImages-2170712716.jpg?ts=1732223966 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756602/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2170712716.jpg?ts=1732223966 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>152</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>.719</td>
<td>3.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Reds, Tigers, Yankees</p><p>Arenado holds the power with a full no-trade clause. It's becoming increasingly clear that he's open to a deal to a contender as he prepares for the 13th season of his illustrious career. Arenado is still an elite defender at third base, although there are some concerning trends in his offensive profile. The 33-year-old is still a productive player on the whole and could elevate a team in search of a steady presence at the hot corner.</p><h3>Luis Robert Jr.</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743513/cropped_GettyImages-2169515639.jpg?ts=1725280931" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743513/w220xh124_GettyImages-2169515639.jpg?ts=1725280931 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743513/w320xh180_GettyImages-2169515639.jpg?ts=1725280931 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743513/w640xh360_GettyImages-2169515639.jpg?ts=1725280931 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743513/w768xh432_GettyImages-2169515639.jpg?ts=1725280931 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743513/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2169515639.jpg?ts=1725280931 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Quinn Harris / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>100</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>35</td>
<td>.657</td>
<td>0.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Nationals, Phillies, Astros</p><p>The White Sox might have missed the window to maximize the return on a Robert trade after the outfielder slumped through the worst season of his career. Robert missed time due to injury, a recurring theme throughout his career. When he was healthy, Robert hit just .224 with 14 home runs, 35 RBIs, and was worth 0.5 fWAR over 100 games. Those were all career-worst marks for the 27-year-old. That being said, Robert is just one year removed from posting a 128 wRC+, 38 home runs, 90 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases in 145 games. That level of power and speed combined with stellar defensive play in center field is hard to find.</p><p>Robert is under contract for three more years for $55 million. It's hard to pinpoint what White Sox general manager Chris Getz might be looking for in a trade but teams searching for outfield help would do well to inquire. Players with Robert's level of talent don't hit the trade market that often.</p><h3>Pete Fairbanks</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741647/cropped_GettyImages-2162021240.jpg?ts=1724012539" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741647/w220xh124_GettyImages-2162021240.jpg?ts=1724012539 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741647/w320xh180_GettyImages-2162021240.jpg?ts=1724012539 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741647/w640xh360_GettyImages-2162021240.jpg?ts=1724012539 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741647/w768xh432_GettyImages-2162021240.jpg?ts=1724012539 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/741647/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2162021240.jpg?ts=1724012539 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Julio Aguilar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>ERA+</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>3.57</td>
<td>45.1</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>112</td>
<td>3.50</td>
<td>1.17</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Yankees, Royals, Cubs</p><p>Fairbanks should be a priority target for teams looking for help at the back of the bullpen. The 30-year-old racked up 23 saves with a 3.57 ERA and 8.7 K/9 in 2024 after posting a 195 ERA+, and 13.8 K/9 across the 2022 and 2023 campaigns. Fairbanks is under contract for just under $4 million this season and has a $7-million club option for 2026.</p><h3>Jordan Montgomery</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742310/cropped_GettyImages-2159447898.jpg?ts=1732142866" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742310/w220xh124_GettyImages-2159447898.jpg?ts=1732142866 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742310/w320xh180_GettyImages-2159447898.jpg?ts=1732142866 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742310/w640xh360_GettyImages-2159447898.jpg?ts=1732142866 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742310/w768xh432_GettyImages-2159447898.jpg?ts=1732142866 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742310/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2159447898.jpg?ts=1732142866 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Rich Schultz / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>ERA+</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>6.23</td>
<td>117</td>
<td>83</td>
<td>67</td>
<td>4.48</td>
<td>1.65</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Rangers, Red Sox, Braves</p><p>Montgomery's first season in Arizona was an unmitigated disaster. The left-hander struggled from the outset and was eventually bumped out of the rotation. D-Backs owner Ken Kendrick admitted the move to add Montgomery was a mistake, calling it a "horrible" signing.</p><p>Montgomery exercised his $22.5-million option but it still feels like a long shot to expect him to still be with the Diamondbacks when spring training gets underway. The 31-year-old is just a season removed from posting a 3.20 ERA in 188 2/3 innings and helping the Texas Rangers win the World Series. Interested teams will likely want the Diamondbacks to eat some of the money but he's a worthwhile gamble considering his track record.</p><h3>Ryan Helsley</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/536156/cropped_GettyImages-1243280551.jpg?ts=1665158610" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/536156/w220xh124_GettyImages-1243280551.jpg?ts=1665158610 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/536156/w320xh180_GettyImages-1243280551.jpg?ts=1665158610 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/536156/w640xh360_GettyImages-1243280551.jpg?ts=1665158610 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/536156/w768xh432_GettyImages-1243280551.jpg?ts=1665158610 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/536156/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1243280551.jpg?ts=1665158610 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>ERA+</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>2.04</td>
<td>66.1</td>
<td>79</td>
<td>206</td>
<td>2.41</td>
<td>1.10</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Blue Jays, Padres, Royals</p><p>Helsley is among the game's best relievers and enjoyed a career season in 2024, leading the majors with 49 saves. The 30-year-old is excellent at avoiding hard contact, ranking in the 97th percentile in barrel rate last year.</p><p>Helsley is projected to earn just under $7 million in 2025 before he reaches free agency. He doesn't have the same track record as Williams but could have a similarly positive impact on an acquiring club's bullpen.</p><h3>Josh Naylor</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625686/cropped_GettyImages-2149576891.jpg?ts=1713738798" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625686/w220xh124_GettyImages-2149576891.jpg?ts=1713738798 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625686/w320xh180_GettyImages-2149576891.jpg?ts=1713738798 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625686/w640xh360_GettyImages-2149576891.jpg?ts=1713738798 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625686/w768xh432_GettyImages-2149576891.jpg?ts=1713738798 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/625686/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2149576891.jpg?ts=1713738798 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Miller / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>GP</th>
<th>HR</th>
<th>RBI</th>
<th>OPS</th>
<th>FWAR</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>152</td>
<td>31</td>
<td>108</td>
<td>.776</td>
<td>2.3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Mariners, Yankees, Pirates</p><p>Naylor doesn't seem like an obvious trade candidate at first glance. However, the Guardians have Kyle Manzardo and Jhonkensy Noel who are best suited getting playing time at first base or designated hitter. Naylor is projected to make $12 million in his final season of arbitration before reaching free agency. The Guardians were in the bottom 10 in payroll last season and have never been a team that's comfortable shelling out big dollars, especially at a position where there are other cheaper internal options. </p><h3>Jeffrey Springs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758560/cropped_GettyImages-2171774710.jpg?ts=1733195804" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758560/w220xh124_GettyImages-2171774710.jpg?ts=1733195804 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758560/w320xh180_GettyImages-2171774710.jpg?ts=1733195804 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758560/w640xh360_GettyImages-2171774710.jpg?ts=1733195804 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758560/w768xh432_GettyImages-2171774710.jpg?ts=1733195804 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758560/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2171774710.jpg?ts=1733195804 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Joe Puetz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ERA</th>
<th>IP</th>
<th>K</th>
<th>ERA+</th>
<th>FIP</th>
<th>WHIP</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>3.27</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>37</td>
<td>123</td>
<td>3.99</td>
<td>1.36</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Best fits: </strong>Giants, Padres, Mets</p><p>Springs is under contract for two years at $10.5 million per season with a $15-million 2027 team option. The 32-year-old returned from elbow surgery to register a 2-2 record with a 3.27 ERA and 37 strikeouts over 33 innings. The Rays can likely afford to shop Springs with Shane McClanahan, Taj Bradley, Ryan Pepiot, and Shane Baz entrenched in the rotation. Springs boasts an excellent changeup, which induced a whiff rate of 44.2% last season and 50% in 2023. He profiles and excellent middle-of-the-rotation option for clubs looking to bolster their rotation.</p>

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<p>Free-agent reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3835" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3835">Tommy Kahnle</a> isn't enamored with the potential of the golden at-bat rule coming to Major League Baseball.</p><p>"Not a fan," Kahnle told <a href="https://x.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1864387436974854401">"Foul Territory"</a> on Wednesday. "I get it, it'd be exciting, but I'm a traditionalist. I don't like the idea. I don't think it belongs."</p><p>The golden at-bat rule would allow a team to send any hitter in the lineup to the plate, even if it's not that player's turn to hit.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>MLB commissioner Rob Manfred <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3148759" href="https://thescore.com/news/3148759">said</a> in October that the league was discussing the rule.</p><p>"I think it's crazy," Kahnle added. "That's what pinch hitters are for, bench players. I can't control that, so we'll see what happens. I hope it doesn't happen."</p>

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 30: Tommy Kahnle #41 of the New York Yankees pitches during Game 5 of the 2024 World Series presented by Capital One between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 in New York, New York.

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<p>The Seattle Mariners and Philadelphia Phillies engaged in trade talks for All-Star third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10702" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10702">Alec Bohm</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/is-alec-bohm-the-answer-for-the-mariners-at-third-base/">Adam Jude of The Seattle Times</a>.</p><p>The Phillies asked for one of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12378" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12378">George Kirby</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12376" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12376">Logan Gilbert</a> in the initial talks with Seattle balking at the price, Jude reports.</p><p>Bohm put together the best campaign of his career in 2024 en route to making his first All-Star team. The 28-year-old registered a 117 OPS+ with 15 home runs, 44 doubles, and 97 RBIs in 143 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bohm is projected to earn $8.1 million in arbitration next season and is under team control through the 2026 campaign.</p><p>The Mariners have a hole at third base with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12114" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12114">Josh Rojas</a> hitting free agency. Rojas finished 21st in home runs and OPS last season.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 05: Alec Bohm #28 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on in the eighth inning during Game 1 of the Division Series presented by Booking.com between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, October 5, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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<p>The Philadelphia Phillies aren't among the teams to offer superstar outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> a contract, <a href="https://x.com/MattGelb/status/1864312921590759662">Matt Gelb of The Athletic</a> reports.</p><p>The Phillies also never met with Soto as he weighs his options in free agency, Gelb adds.</p><p>The New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers reportedly met with Soto and offered him contracts over $600 million.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Soto's agent, Scott Boras, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3149133" href="https://thescore.com/news/3149133">said</a> Tuesday that the 26-year-old has begun eliminating teams from the process.</p><p>The Phillies are projected to enter the 2025 campaign with a starting outfield of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12670" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12670">Johan Rojas</a> in center, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8188" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8188">Brandon Marsh</a> in left, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2880" href="/mlb/players/2880">Nick Castellanos</a> in right.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 22: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees reacts after hitting a two-run home run against the Seattle Mariners during the third inning at Yankee Stadium on May 22, 2024 in the Bronx borough of New York City.

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Josh Goldberg

News editor

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