The New York Yankees are operating under the mindset that outfielder Cody Bellinger will sign wit...

The New York Yankees are operating under the mindset that outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> will sign with a different team this offseason, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/47574031/sources-yankees-negotiations-cody-bellinger-impasse">Buster Olney of ESPN</a>.New York's front office is reportedly looking for additions elsewhere due to an impasse in contract talks with Bellinger's camp.The Yankees offered Bellinger a five-year deal worth at least $30 million per season, sources told Olney.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, Bellinger and his agent, Scott Boras, want a longer contract with an average annual value higher than $30 million, Olney reports.The Bronx Bombers have remained in discussions with outfielder Kyle Tucker and shortstop Bo Bichette while talking to other clubs about potential tradesBellinger slashed .272/.334/.480 with 29 homers, 98 RBIs, and 4.9 fWAR over 152 games last year. Defensively, he finished in the 93rd percentile for outs above average, 91st percentile in arm value, and 83rd percentile in arm strength.

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 01: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees looks on during the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Yankee Stadium on April 1, 2025 in New York, New York.

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Report: Yankees believe Bellinger will sign elsewhere, eyeing other options 

Former MLB star Josh Donaldson believes the Detroit Tigers botched the arbitration process with t...

Former MLB star Josh Donaldson believes the Detroit Tigers botched the arbitration process with two-time reigning AL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal</a>."A little behind but just saw the arbitration news on Skubal," Donaldson <a href="https://x.com/BringerOfRain20/status/2010055470820798604">wrote</a> Saturday on X. "I mean, the Detroit Tigers fumble this big time. Skubal wants $32 million (and) Detroit offers $19 million. Trash organization."The Tigers and Skubal failed to agree to a 2026 salary before Thursday's deadline due to a reported record-setting $13-million gap between the two sides.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 29-year-old ace will now likely be involved in a hearing to decide his pay for his final season before potentially testing free agency next offseason.Skubal will set a new record for arbitration-eligible players with a $32-million salary if he beats the Tigers.Detroit is a file-and-trial club, which means it doesn't negotiate after the deadline, but the team is believed to be willing to discuss a deal with Skubal.The left-hander's name has circulated in trade rumors since last winter, when he reportedly rejected a four-year extension offer worth less than $100 million.Skubal posted an an AL-best 2.21 ERA with 241 strikeouts, 0.89 WHIP, and 6.6 fWAR over 195 1/3 innings (31 starts) in 2025.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 23: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during the sixth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 23, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Donaldson: 'Trash' Tigers fumbled Skubal's arbitration

Defenseman Dougie Hamilton's agent says he believes the New Jersey Devils are scratching the 14-y...

Defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2155" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2155">Dougie Hamilton</a>'s agent says he believes the New Jersey Devils are scratching the 14-year veteran ahead of Sunday's game against the Winnipeg Jets due to off-ice reasons."Dougie was informed today that he will not be playing now that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9987" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9987">(Johnathan) Kovacevic</a> is back in the lineup," J.P. Barry told <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/2010078442813837773?s=20">Pierre LeBrun of TSN</a> on Saturday. "In our view, this decision is all about business rather than his game right now. Singling him out seems very calculated at this stage."Dougie has a 10-team trade list, and there have been efforts to trade him going back to the draft last year. We have made it clear to the Devils that we will consider teams outside our list and other creative ways to get to a team that is mutually acceptable."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>However, Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe denied that scratching Hamilton is an attempt to pressure him into waiving his no-movement clause."I don't care about any of that stuff," Keefe said, according to <a href="https://x.com/ryannovoNHL/status/2010083407586374032?s=20">Ryan Novozinsky of NJ.com</a>. I'm putting a lineup together. I like what (<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12712" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12712">Simon Nemec</a>) brings. I think we need more of what Kovy brings at this point in time."Keefe added he wants to give his team a different look on the blue line, noting, "Dougie is the odd man out," per team reporter <a href="https://x.com/amandacstein">Amanda Stein</a>.Hamilton, who's making $9 million per campaign through 2027-28, has just 10 points (five goals, five assists) in 40 games this season for the underperforming Devils. The 32-year-old signed a seven-year, $63-million contract with New Jersey in July 2021.

NEWARK, NJ - DECEMBER 21: Dougie Hamilton #7 of the New Jersey Devils looks on during a game between the Buffalo Sabres and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on December 21, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Agent: Devils scratching Hamilton 'calculated' business decision

Red Sox president and CEO Sam Kennedy doesn't believe Boston's front office should be criticized ...

Red Sox president and CEO Sam Kennedy doesn't believe Boston's front office should be criticized for failing to ink a free agent to an MLB deal this offseason because his club added to its roster in other ways."I think it's just important to look at the facts," Kennedy said Saturday, according to <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2026/01/red-sox-president-reacts-to-being-only-team-without-free-agent-signing-close-to-500m-in-contractual-commitments.html">MassLive's Christopher Smith</a>. "If you go back a year ago, this date last year, I believe our organization has taken on close to $500 million in contractual commitments to guys like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a>, guys like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17342" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17342">Kristian Campbell</a>, guys like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17320" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17320">Roman Anthony</a>. So, that's just a fact."We've added $40 million in payroll through trades. That's just a fact. We cannot and do not try to control social media narrative. We understand that talk radio is ablaze with opinions and ideas. That's what makes this the best place in the world to be, to live, and to operate in baseball."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Red Sox traded for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3012" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3012">Sonny Gray</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3571" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3571">Willson Contreras</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11860" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11860">Johan Oviedo</a> this winter. Gray and Contreras both waived their no-trade clauses, leading the team to rework their contracts and commit over $63 million to the pair for 2026 and 2027.Boston also gave large, long-term extensions to Crochet, Anthony, and Campbell last year.Additionally, Kennedy expressed support for MLB commissioner Rob Manfred's <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3450936">plan</a> to propose a signing deadline for free agents in the next collective bargaining agreement."I would just point to the commissioner's comments earlier this week and strongly agree that it's worthy of exploration for sure," Kennedy said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6959775/2026/01/10/red-sox-sam-kennedy-free-agent-deadline-alex-bregman/?source=emp_shared_article">Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic</a>. "In terms of being in a very competitive market, for fan interest and attention, having a defined period would be helpful. Now listen, that's something that would have to be bargained for (with MLBPA), but it's worthy of a conversation."The Red Sox have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3443717" href="https://thescore.com/news/3443717">reportedly</a> made an aggressive offer to re-sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>, though manager Alex Cora acknowledged it's also up to the All-Star third baseman."You've got to ask him," Cora said, per <a href="https://www.masslive.com/redsox/2026/01/alex-cora-on-alex-bregman-red-sox-the-ball-is-in-his-court.html">MassLive's Chris Cotillo</a>. "The ball is in his court."He added: "We've been working together to see what happens, but obviously, it's a different offseason for Alex."

BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 2: President & CEO Sam Kennedy speaks as Craig Breslow is officially introduced as Chief Baseball Officer of the Boston Red Sox during a press conference on November 2, 2023 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Kennedy pushes back on criticism Red Sox haven't signed MLB free agent

Free-agent outfielder Max Kepler received an 80-game suspension for testing positive for a perfor...

Free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3559" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3559">Max Kepler</a> received an 80-game suspension for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance called epitrenbolone, MLB announced Friday.Kepler's punishment will begin at the start of the 2026 season regardless of whether he's signed his next contract, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/47562910/of-max-kepler-banned-80-games-violating-mlb-drug-program">ESPN's Alden González</a>. If he's still a free agent on Opening Day, he'll receive credit based on games the Philadelphia Phillies - his team in 2025 - play until he signs elsewhere.The suspension also means Kepler will be ineligible to participate in the 2026 playoffs.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Epitrenbolone is a metabolite of trenbolone, which is an anabolic steroid primarily used to enhance muscles in cattle.The 32-year-old hit 18 homers with 52 RBIs and a .691 OPS over 127 games for the Phillies last season. He joined Philadelphia on a one-year, $10-million deal last winter.Prior to joining the Phillies, the Germany native spent 10 years with the Minnesota Twins.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Nick Castellanos #8 and Max Kepler #17 of the Philadelphia Phillies react against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the seventh inning at Dodger Stadium on September 17, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Max Kepler gets 80-game ban for PED violation

Arizona Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen confirmed Friday that he won't move All-Star seco...

Arizona Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen confirmed Friday that he won't move All-Star second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3555" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3555">Ketel Marte</a> this offseason."It never ended up getting that close," Hazen said, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/d-backs-not-trading-ketel-marte-this-offseason">Steve Gilbert of MLB.com</a>. "Just sort of reaffirming what I've been saying the entire offseason, like my expectation was this wasn't going to happen. I felt like I had to do my job just to listen to what people had to say. He's a superstar player for us, and has been for a long time, and is going to continue to be."Hazen said he talked to Marte after telling other teams the D-Backs were no longer interested in dealing the 32-year-old. The GM added he will meet with the player when spring training begins.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He's a pro," Hazen said. "He's going to be a top-10 MVP-performing player in the league next year, and it'll be fine."Bringing in pitching help and potentially making room in the payroll for free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> were the reasons Arizona explored a Marte trade, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6949508/2026/01/09/mlb-ketel-marte-diamondbacks-no-trade/">Ken Rosenthal and Maria Torres of The Athletic</a>.The Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, Tampa Bay Rays, and Toronto Blue Jays reportedly showed interest in Marte.The 2024 NL MVP finalist is signed through the 2030 season after inking an extension in April. He's still owed $91 million and has a $11.5-million player option for 2031.Marte has hit 168 homers with 587 RBIs and an .851 OPS over 1,054 games with Arizona since 2017.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 13: Ketel Marte #4 of the Arizona Diamondbacks looks on against the Minnesota Twins on September 13, 2025 at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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D-Backs won't trade Marte this offseason

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred will advocate for adding a signing deadline for free agents to the n...

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred will advocate for adding a signing deadline for free agents to the next collective bargaining agreement during this year's looming labor talks."I think there's going to be some more conversation about it, because I do believe that there's a marketing opportunity," Manfred told <a href="https://www.audacy.com/wfan/hosts/the-carton-show-with-craig-carton-chris-mc-monigle">WFAN's "The Carton Show with Craig Carton &amp; Chris McMonigle"</a> on Thursday. "Let's face it, we operate in a really competitive environment. Just put entertainment, generally, to one side - just sports, right? It's really competitive. "And I think that you make a mistake, particularly during the offseason, when you don't take every advantage to push your sport out in front of your fans during that down period."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Free agency has again gone at a glacial pace this offseason. Notable stars such as Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, Alex Bregman, Cody Bellinger, and Framber Valdez remain unsigned, with pitchers and catchers set to report for spring training in one month. However, Manfred noted that some players have a misconception that a deadline would be bad for them."What they said back was, they thought that kind of deadline would work to the disadvantage of the players," Manfred said. "And you know, I just - I don't put much credence in this."MLBPA head Tony Clark disagrees, arguing that a deadline won't improve the state of the open market."Free agency thrives when competition thrives - on and off the field," Clark said, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6955830/2026/01/09/rob-manfred-free-agent-signing-deadline/">The Athletic's Evan Drellich</a>. "If the owners are genuinely interested in improving free agency, there are many ways to get there, and we look forward to having that discussion in the coming months."But if their true interest is to blow up the very system on which our streak of uninterrupted seasons has been built - with the game reaching record heights and poised to go even higher, no less - that would be a self-defeating miscalculation of massive proportions."Meanwhile, Athletics outfielder Brent Rooker <a href="https://x.com/brent_rooker25/status/2009071061921640605?s=61">called</a> a deadline "pretty close to the most anti-player idea you could possibly have."Manfred is also open to changing MLB's regular-season schedule."We've talked about split seasons. We've talked about in-season tournaments," the 67-year-old told WFAN. "We do understand that 162 (games) is a long pull. I think the difficulty of accomplishing those sorts of in-season events, you almost inevitably start talking about fewer regular-season games."It is a much more complicated thing in our sport than it is in other sports. Because of all of our season-long records, you're playing around with something that people care a lot about."The current CBA expires at the end of the year on Dec. 1.

ORLANDO, FL - DECEMBER 08: Major League Baseball Commissioner Robert D. Manfred Jr. speaks during the MLB and the Dominican Baseball Federation announcement at the 2025 Winter Meetings at The Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek on Monday, December 8, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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Manfred plans to propose free-agent signing deadline for next CBA

Bo Bichette has a big number in mind for his next contract.  The free-agent shortstop is believed...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> has a big number in mind for his next contract.The free-agent shortstop is believed to be looking for a deal around $300 million, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/01/08/sports/yankees-bo-bichette-interest-intensifies-amid-cody-bellinger-gap/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.The Philadelphia Phillies have scheduled a video meeting with Bichette in the coming days, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6955416/2026/01/08/phillies-bo-bichette-mlb-free-agent/">Matt Gelb and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>. The club's front office has reportedly done extensive background work on how signing the two-time All-Star would impact its roster.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Phillies are now the favorites to sign Bichette, reports <a href="https://x.com/bmadden1954/status/2009389825036566894?s=20">Bill Madden of the New York Daily News</a>, who adds that new bench coach Don Mattingly is one of the primary reasons. The duo was previously together in the Toronto Blue Jays organization.Bichette, who's reportedly open to moving to second base, could work for the Phillies if the team moves <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12413" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12413">Bryson Stott</a> to third base and trades <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10702" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10702">Alec Bohm</a>, notes Gelb.The New York Yankees are also showing more serious interest in the 27-year-old Bichette as contract talks with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a> remain at an impasse, according to Heyman.The Yankees have reportedly made several offers to Bellinger. However, negotiations have stalled over contract length and the average annual value, per <a href="https://x.com/snyyankees/status/2009048494686744673">SNY</a>.Bellinger is seeking a deal around six or seven years, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6948100/2026/01/07/yankees-cody-bellinger-negotations/">Brendan Kuty of The Athletic</a>.The 30-year-old outfielder is drawing interest from several other clubs, including the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers, adds Heyman.Bichette's fit with the Yankees isn't clear on paper. The team already has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13802" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13802">Anthony Volpe</a> at short, but the 24-year-old former top prospect will start the 2026 season sidelined after undergoing shoulder surgery in October. Offensively, Bichette would be a major upgrade over Volpe.The Yankees have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9520" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9520">Jazz Chisholm Jr.</a> manning second base, but the All-Star's name has surfaced in trade rumors this offseason.The Cubs, Dodgers, Blue Jays, and Boston Red Sox have also been linked to Bichette this winter.Bichette went deep 18 times with a career-high 44 doubles, 94 RBIs, and an .840 OPS over 139 games for the Blue Jays in 2025.

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 05: Bo Bichette #11 of the Toronto Blue Jays bats during the game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Friday, September 5, 2025 in New York, New York.

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Report: Bichette eyeing $300M deal in free agency

The Chicago Cubs acquired right-hander Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins for prospects Owen C...

The Chicago Cubs acquired right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9569">Edward Cabrera</a> from the Miami Marlins for prospects <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13752">Owen Caissie</a>, Cristian Hernandez, and Edgardo De Leon, the teams announced Wednesday.The New York Yankees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3445638" href="https://thescore.com/news/3445638">reportedly</a> discussed a deal for Cabrera prior to the pitcher's move to the Cubs. However, the Yankees weren't close to landing the 27-year-old, according to <a data-in-app-uri="" href="">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>.Chicago's projected rotation for 2026 now includes Cabrera, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5285" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5285">Matthew Boyd</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19127" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19127">Cade Horton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17236">Shota Imanaga</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2918" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2918">Jameson Taillon</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4987" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4987">Colin Rea</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14340" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14340">Javier Assad</a> are also options to start, while 2023 All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10586">Justin Steele</a> is expected to be back at some point in the first half of the new campaign after undergoing elbow surgery in April.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cabrera posted a 3.53 ERA with 1.23 WHIP and a career-high 150 strikeouts across 137 2/3 innings (26 starts) last season. He's arbitration-eligible through 2028 and projected to earn $3.7 million in 2026.He finished in the 87th percentile for fastball velocity, 78th for whiff percentage, and 74th for chase percentage and strikeout percentage in 2025. Cabrera's four-seam fastball sat at an average of 97 mph to go along with a hard changeup that was over 94 mph and a sinker, slider, and curveball.Caissie, who was the Cubs' top prospect, is ranked as the No. 47 prospect overall by <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects">MLB Pipeline</a>. The 23-year-old outfielder hit 22 homers with 55 RBIs and a .937 OPS over 99 games in Triple-A last year. He played 12 contests with the Cubs after making his MLB debut in August.Hernandez was the No. 11 prospect in Chicago's minor-league system. The 22-year-old infielder went deep seven times with 52 stolen bases over 115 games in Single-A last year.Lastly, the 18-year-old De Leon hit five homers with an .853 OPS across 43 rookie ball contests in 2025.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 28: Edward Cabrera #27 of the Miami Marlins pitches in the game against the New York Mets at loanDepot park on September 28, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Cubs land Cabrera from Marlins in 4-player trade

The New York Yankees are making a push to re-sign Cody Bellinger.  The Yankees made a second cont...

The New York Yankees are making a push to re-sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a>.The Yankees made a second contract offer to the free-agent outfielder, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2026/01/04/sports/yankees-have-edward-cabrera-trade-talks-make-new-cody-bellinger-offer/">Joel Sherman of the New York Post</a>.Bellinger reportedly received his <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3443330" href="https://thescore.com/news/3443330">first offer</a> last week.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York's front office has publicly said throughout the offseason that it wants to bring the 30-year-old back after a strong first season in the Bronx.Bellinger slashed .272/.334/.480 with 29 homers, 98 RBIs, and 4.9 fWAR over 152 games last year. Defensively, he finished in the 93rd percentile for outs above average, 91st percentile in arm value, and 83rd percentile in arm strength.The Chicago Cubs also checked in on the 2019 NL MVP, reports <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/2007945122022052034?s=20">Jon Heyman of MLB Network</a>. The Cubs signed the two-time All-Star to a three-year, $80-million deal in February 2024 before trading him to the Yankees in December 2024.The New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Francisco Giants are among the other clubs that've been connected to Bellinger this winter.

BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 21: Cody Bellinger #35 of the New York Yankees runs back to dug out between innings during a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 21, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Report: Yankees make 2nd offer to Bellinger

The San Jose Sharks signed forward Alexander Wennberg to a three-year, $18-million contract exten...

The San Jose Sharks signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3917" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3917">Alexander Wennberg</a> to a three-year, $18-million contract extension, the club announced Sunday.Wennberg has seven goals and 19 assists for 26 points in 41 games this season. His assist total is tied for second on the Sharks. Wennberg is averaging a career-high 20:34 this season, which ranks second among San Jose forwards behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a>.The 31-year-old Wennberg was set to become an unrestricted free agent in July.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He originally joined San Jose as a free agent on a two-year, $10-million deal prior to the 2024-25 campaign. He's notched 17 goals and 61 points in 118 contests with the Sharks.Sweden named Wennberg to its Olympic roster this week. He wasn't on the country's 4 Nations Face-Off roster.Wennberg has 108 goals and 396 points in 830 career games with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Florida Panthers, Seattle Kraken, New York Rangers, and Sharks.

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 07: Alexander Wennberg #21 of the San Jose Sharks looks on during the third period of the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at the Lenovo Center on December 07, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Sharks ink Wennberg to 3-year extension with $6M AAV

The Kansas City Royals and manager Matt Quatraro agreed to a three-year contract extension that b...

The Kansas City Royals and manager Matt Quatraro agreed to a three-year contract extension that begins in 2027 and includes a 2030 club option, the club announced Sunday.The financial details of the deal weren't disclosed.Quatraro was heading into the final season of his current contract.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 52-year-old owns a 224-262 record since becoming the Royals' skipper prior to the 2023 season. He led the team to its only playoff appearance over the last decade in a 2024 trip to the ALDS.Kansas City went 82-80 to finish third in the AL Central last season.

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 6: Matt Quatraro #33, Manager of the Kansas City Royals greets the media before a game against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field on June 6, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Royals ink manager Quatraro to 3-year extension

The New York Yankees are still looking to upgrade their starting rotation.  New York's front offi...

The New York Yankees are still looking to upgrade their starting rotation.New York's front office is talking to the Miami Marlins about a potential trade for right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9569">Edward Cabrera</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6939550/2026/01/04/yankees-interest-edward-cabrera-marlins/">Chris Kirschner and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.A deal reportedly wasn't close as of Sunday morning.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Marlins would receive multiple high-ceiling prospects if the teams reach an agreement, according to <a href="https://x.com/CraigMish/status/2007886057459909067">Craig Mish of SportsGrid</a>.The Yankees have engaged with several clubs and agents in an attempt to add at least one more starter, per Kirschner and Rosenthal. Milwaukee Brewers ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9771" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9771">Freddy Peralta</a> reportedly remains another possible target.Cabrera posted a 3.53 ERA with 1.23 WHIP and a career-high 150 strikeouts across 137 2/3 innings (26 starts) last season. The 27-year-old is arbitration-eligible through 2028 and projected to earn $3.7 million in 2026.Reports in early December suggested there was a strong possibility the Marlins would move one of Cabrera, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5647" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5647">Sandy Alcantara</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12507" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12507">Ryan Weathers</a> this offseason. Cabrera's name has appeared in rumors dating back to July's trade deadline.The New York Mets and Chicago Cubs have also shown interest in Cabrera, a source told <a href="https://x.com/flasportsbuzz/status/2007881622230913337?s=20">Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald</a>.The Yankees' Opening Day rotation currently projects to feature <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18809" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18809">Cam Schlittler</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11752">Luis Gil</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15569">Will Warren</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5350" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5350">Ryan Yarbrough</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2913" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2913">Gerrit Cole</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4763" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4763">Carlos Rodón</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9586">Clarke Schmidt</a> will be sidelined heading into the new campaign as the trio recovers from elbow surgeries.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 28: Edward Cabrera #27 of the Miami Marlins reacts in the game against the New York Mets at loanDepot park on September 28, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Yankees, Marlins discussing Edward Cabrera trade

Brooks Koepka is leaving LIV Golf, the tour announced Tuesday.   Thank you, @BKoepka pic.twitter....

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1461" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1461">Brooks Koepka</a> is leaving LIV Golf, the tour announced Tuesday.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you, <a href="https://twitter.com/BKoepka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BKoepka</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z4brvVd76e">pic.twitter.com/Z4brvVd76e</a>— LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) <a href="https://twitter.com/livgolf_league/status/2003580817474486386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"Brooks is prioritizing the needs of his family and staying closer to home," LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil said in a statement. "We appreciate the significant impact he has had on the game and wish him continued success, both on and off the course."The five-time major champion left the PGA TOUR in 2022 to join LIV Golf. He notably won the 2023 PGA Championship while competing in LIV.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Brooks Koepka is a highly accomplished professional, and we wish him and his family continued success," the PGA TOUR said in a statement. "The PGA TOUR continues to offer the best professional golfers the most competitive, challenging, and lucrative environment in which to pursue greatness."Koepka won five LIV events in his four seasons on the Saudi-backed tour. His last victory came in August 2024 at LIV Greenbrier in a playoff against <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1111" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1111">Jon Rahm</a>.The 35-year-old struggled last season. He ranked 31st of 54 players in the LIV standings and failed to win on the tour. Koepka missed the cut in three of the four major championships.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///pga/players/1136" href="https://thescore.com/pga/players/1136">Talor Gooch</a> will take over as captain of Smash GC.

PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 20: Brooks Koepka of the United States tees off on the fifth hole on day three of the FedEx Open de France 2025 at Golf de Saint-Nom-la-Breteche on September 20, 2025 in Paris, France.

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Koepka leaving LIV Golf to be closer to home

The Pittsburgh Pirates and All-Star first baseman Ryan O'Hearn agreed to a two-year, $29-million ...

The Pittsburgh Pirates and All-Star first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5605">Ryan O'Hearn</a> agreed to a two-year, $29-million contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/ByRobertMurray/status/2003546962260558049?s=20">Robert Murray of FanSided</a>.O'Hearn's pact includes $500,000 in incentives for each season, according to Murray.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Per source, Ryan O'Hearn's contract also includes $500k in plate appearance incentives each season. Those incentives: - 450 PA: $100,000 - 475 PA: $100,000 - 500 PA: $150,000 - 525 PA: $150,000 <a href="https://t.co/tIJBvVIb77">https://t.co/tIJBvVIb77</a>— Colin Beazley (@colin_beazley) <a href="https://twitter.com/colin_beazley/status/2003590067890323703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The reported signing is the first multi-year contract the Pirates have handed out in free agency since giving Iván Nova a three-year, $26-million deal in December 2016.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>O'Hearn hit 17 homers with 63 RBIs and an .803 OPS in 144 games between the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres in 2025. The 32-year-old also authored a career-high 3.0 fWAR.Defensively, O'Hearn finished in the 89th percentile for outs above average.Pittsburgh has already brought in All-Star second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9653" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9653">Brandon Lowe</a>, outfield prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16328" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16328">Jhostynxon Garcia</a>, and former closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9551" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9551">Gregory Soto</a> this offseason in an attempt to surround NL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> with more talent. Infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18811" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18811">Konnor Griffin</a>, MLB's top prospect, also has a chance to reach the majors in 2026.The Pirates finished last in the NL Central this year and haven't made the playoffs since 2015.

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 28: Ryan O'Hearn #32 of the San Diego Padres celebrates after a single during the eighth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park on September 28, 2025 in San Diego, California.

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Report: Pirates snag O'Hearn on 2-year, $29M deal

Despite a disappointing season, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube and general manager B...

Despite a disappointing season, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube and general manager Brad Treliving are apparently safe - for now.Berube and Treliving aren't in danger of losing their jobs, sources told <a href="https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/sources-leafs-treliving-berube-not-in-danger-of-being-fired/">Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet</a>.Treliving also gave Berube a vote of confidence while addressing the media before the Leafs took on the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I want to make it clear. I support Craig fully," the GM said, according to <a href="https://x.com/reporterchris/status/2003538605617348887">Chris Johnston of The Athletic</a>.On Monday, the Leafs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3435141" href="https://thescore.com/news/3435141">fired</a> assistant coach Marc Savard, who oversaw a power play that ranked last in the NHL.However, Toronto doesn't want to make further personnel changes without thorough preparation, Friedman adds.The Leafs' No. 1 priority is reportedly finding a way to get captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> going, as the three-time Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner has 14 goals and 23 points in 30 games this season.Toronto sits last place in the Eastern Conference after winning the Atlantic Division during the 2024-25 campaign. The club is in jeopardy of ending its streak of nine straight seasons with a playoff appearance - the longest active run in the NHL.

TORONTO, ON - September 17 Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving chats to the media with Head Coach Craig Berube to the left. The Toronto Maple Leafs held a media availability prior to to their first skate of the season tomorrow at their practice facility at the Ford Performance Centre. September 17 2025 Richard Lautens/Toronto Star

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Report: Leafs not contemplating firing Berube, Treliving

The Toronto Maple Leafs relieved assistant coach Marc Savard of his duties Monday.  Savard ran a ...

The Toronto Maple Leafs relieved assistant coach Marc Savard of his duties Monday.Savard ran a Leafs power play that sits last in the NHL with a 13.3% success rate this season despite boasting stars such as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4180" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4180">William Nylander</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/794" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/794">John Tavares</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Doesn’t sound like the Leafs are bringing in someone to replace Marc Savard for the moment. Going to go in house for now. Obviously that’s subject to change.— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) <a href="https://twitter.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/2003235955436847437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Toronto hired Savard in June 2024 to join head coach Craig Berube's staff. In his first season, the team's power play finished 16th at 21.4%.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Leafs' struggles on the man advantage are one of the main reasons the organization is underperforming. The club currently sits last in the Atlantic Division after finishing first during the 2024-25 campaign and making the playoffs for a ninth straight season - a streak that appears in jeopardy.

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 16: Toronto Maple Leafs Coach Craig Berube and the rest of the bench react during the NHL regular season game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 16, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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Leafs fire assistant coach Savard amid NHL-worst power play

The Seattle Mariners signed outfielder Rob Refsnyder to a one-year contract, the club announced M...

The Seattle Mariners signed outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4513" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4513">Rob Refsnyder</a> to a one-year contract, the club announced Monday.Refsnyder will make $6.25 million in 2026, and his deal includes $250,000 in incentives, according to <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/2003218159487320392?s=20">Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.The 34-year-old hit nine homers with 30 RBIs and an .838 OPS over 70 games as a platoon player with the Boston Red Sox in 2025. He owns a career .281/.383/.443 slash line against left-handers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Rob has been one of the most productive hitters against left-handed pitching over the last four seasons and provides balance and impact offensively to our lineup," Mariners general manager Justin Hollander said in a statement.Refsnyder has also suited up for the New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, Texas Rangers, and Minnesota Twins over his 10-year career.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 09: Rob Refsnyder #30 of the Boston Red Sox bats against the Athletics in the top of the third inning at Sutter Health Park on September 09, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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Mariners add Refsnyder on 1-year deal reportedly worth $6.25M

The New York Mets traded utility man Jeff McNeil and cash to the Athletics for pitching prospect ...

The New York Mets traded utility man <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4912" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4912">Jeff McNeil</a> and cash to the Athletics for pitching prospect Yordan Rodriguez, the club announced Monday.The Mets are sending $5.75 million to help cover the remainder of McNeil's contract, which includes a $15.75-million salary for 2026 and a $2-million buyout on a $15.75-million club option for 2027, according to <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/2003200666102337937?s=20">Jeff Passan of ESPN.</a>New York will reportedly pay the buyout if the two-time All-Star's option isn't exercised.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McNeil, who has spent his whole eight-year career in Queens, is the latest member of the team's core to be shipped out or not retained in free agency. The club has also seen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> depart this offseason.The 33-year-old McNeil hit 12 homers with 54 RBIs and a .746 OPS over 122 games in 2025. His best season came in 2022 when he won the NL batting title with a .326 average en route to authoring a 5.5 fWAR.Rodriguez, 17, posted a 2.93 ERA with 11.7 K/9 over eight appearances in the Dominican Summer League this year.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 25: Jeff McNeil #1 of the New York Mets celebrates after a double hitter in the fourth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field on August 25, 2025 in New York City.

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Mets trade McNeil to Athletics for pitching prospect

The Carolina Hurricanes will be without two key players for the foreseeable future.  Hurricanes f...

The Carolina Hurricanes will be without two key players for the foreseeable future.Hurricanes forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9199" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9199">Seth Jarvis</a> and defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4716" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4716">Jaccob Slavin</a> are both week-to-week with upper-body injuries, the club announced Monday.Jarvis was injured during Friday's game against the Florida Panthers after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3432452" href="https://thescore.com/news/3432452">crashing into the post</a> following a trip by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4526" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4526">Evan Rodrigues</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 23-year-old owns a team-leading 19 goals and sits second with 29 points over 34 games. Meanwhile, Slavin will be sidelined again after missing 29 games earlier in the campaign due to a lower-body injury. He returned Dec. 14 and has appeared in just five contests this season.Carolina sits first in the Metropolitan Division, four points up on the Washington Capitals.

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 14: Seth Jarvis #24 of the Carolina Hurricanes looks on against the Philadelphia Flyers during their game at the Lenovo Center on December 14, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Hurricanes' Jarvis, Slavin week-to-week with upper-body injuries

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Tom Ruminski

News Editor

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