The Washington Nationals and free-agent infielder Starlin Casto have reportedly struck a deal, according to\u00a0Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic<\/a>, where Castro figures to be a second baseman.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve seen Castro in the big leagues for quite a while, but he\u2019s still just 29. He\u2019s spent time with the Cubs, Yankees and Marlins, where last season he hit 22 homers with 86 RBIs and a .736 OPS.<\/p>\n The Nationals\u2019 infield is still a work in progress. They have holes at second and third. They still have an eye on free-agent Josh Donaldson, but Castro provides flexibility if they don\u2019t land him. He played 45 games at third base season, but mostly played second.<\/p>\n The San Francisco Giants, who are certainly a team gambling on reclamation projects at this point, have reportedly agreed to a minor-league deal with Tyson Ross. The news comes from\u00a0Bob Nightengale of USA Today<\/a>:<\/p>\n Ross, 32, went to Cal and was drafted by the A\u2019s, but has since played for the Padres, Rangers, Cardinals and Tigers. He was with Detroit last season and made only seven starts. In 2018, he appeared in 31 games for the Padres and Cardinals. He finished the season with a 4.15 ERA, but did better out of the bullpen in St. Louis where he had 2.73 ERA in nine appearances.<\/p>\n If the Los Angeles Dodgers make a monumental trade this offseason, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi believes it’s ‘more likely’ to happen with the Boston Red Sox than the Cleveland Indians.<\/p>\n In a report filed on Thursday, Morosi says talks between the Dodgers and Indians that have centered around shortstop Francisco Lindor have failed to progress throughout the winter. In the same breath, Morosi indicates there’s more traction in talks with the Red Sox regarding former AL MVP Mookie Betts.<\/p>\n David Price is among the other players the Dodgers would be interested in acquiring from Boston. The veteran left-hander has been up and down recently and is still owed $96 million over the next three seasons, but would still be an attractive replacement with Hyun-Jin Ryu and Rich Hill leaving the Dodgers in free agency,<\/p>\n A trade involving Betts and Price would give Boston the salary relief its seeking this winter. Though as Morosi notes, it wouldn’t be a giveaway situation. The Red Sox will want a haul of major league players and prospects in return. The next few days and weeks will be interesting to monitor.<\/p>\n The Washington Nationals beat the Houston Astros in a classic seven-game World Series. Now they\u2019re about to sign away one of Houston\u2019s best relievers.<\/p>\n Harris, 35, is coming off arguably the best season of his eight-year MLB career. In 68 regular season appearances, he posted a 1.50 ERA with 62 strikeouts over 60 innings. Over the last five seasons, all of which were spent in Houston, Harris\u2019 collective ERA is 2.36 over 297 innings. That stretch includes an All-Star appearance in 2016.<\/p>\n Also worth noting, Harris allowed just two runs over 9.2 innings in the 2019 postseason. Those came on Anthony Rendon and Howie Kendrick home runs during the World Series.<\/p>\n The aggressive Los Angeles Angels have landed another free agent. ESPN\u2019s Jeff Passan reports Los Angeles has agreed to\u00a0a one-year, $6.85 million deal<\/a>\u00a0with catcher Jason Castro.<\/p>\n Los Angeles solidified its lineup this winter with the signing of Anthony Rendon. Castro\u2019s signing will likely do more for the team\u2019s defense. He\u2019s regarded as a plus defender at one of the most important positions. He is capable of providing pop though as his 13 homers in 79 games last season indicates.<\/p>\n Will Nolan Arenado be in a new uniform next season? There\u2019s a \u201c50\/50 chance\u201d the Colorado Rockies deal their star third baseman, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network.<\/p>\n With free agency moving swiftly already this winter and plenty of teams trying to get better, the Rockies are at least considering moving Arenado, who is a perennial MVP candidate.<\/p>\n Sources: Nolan Arenado has roughly a 50\/50 chance of being traded, with a half-dozen teams having checked in, as I just reported on @MLBNetwork<\/a>. The #Dodgers<\/a> are *not* the most likely destination, as #Rockies<\/a> prefer not to trade Arenado in the division. @MLB<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 2, 2020<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n If the Dodgers are out,\u00a0one team that may make sense is the Chicago White Sox<\/a>, since they have the pieces to make a deal work and the desire to win soon. Of course, plenty of teams would be interested in Arenado.<\/p>\n The only thing that might deter teams is the cost. Arenado, 28, and the Rockies signed an eight-year extension worth $255 million last year. He is, however, able to opt-out after the 2021 season.<\/p>\n The Minnesota Twins made a pair of notable New Year’s Eve additions by signing pitchers Homer Bailey and Rich Hill to one-year deals. Now the team is looking to bolster its offense after reportedly making a four-year offer to veteran third baseman Josh Donaldson.<\/p>\n The Athletic’s Dan Hayes was the\u00a0first to report the offer. Financial terms were not included in the report. Hayes says the Twins are looking to make up ground after missing out on several of their early free agent targets.<\/p>\n Donaldson, 34, is the best free agent still available. The 2015 AL MVP was healthy and productive with the Atlanta Braves last season, launching 37 home runs to match the second highest total of his career. As for the Twins, they\u2019re bringing back plenty of firepower from an offense that hit an\u00a0MLB-record 307 home runs\u00a0last season. But they did lose a combined 48 home runs when C.J. Cron and Jonathan Schoop both signed with the Detroit Tigers.<\/p>\n The Twins will have some competition for Donaldson as he\u2019s also reportedly drawing interest from the Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals.<\/p>\n The Minnesota Twins didn\u2019t get a top free-agent pitcher this offseason, so instead they\u2019re buying low on two veterans who could help them make a playoff push. Rich Hill and Homer Bailey are joining the Twins on one-year deals.<\/p>\n The news\u00a0was first reported by Dan Hayes of The Athletic<\/a>, and confirmed by the team shortly thereafter. According to\u00a0Jon Heyman of MLB Network<\/a>, Bailey\u2019s deal is worth $7 million and Hill\u2019s is worth $3 million plus incentives.<\/p>\n Hill is 39 and only pitched in 13 games last season with the Dodgers because of injury, but has largely been productive the last three seasons in L.A. He was 11-5 in 2018 with a 3.66 ERA. Recently, he was in the news for\u00a0getting arrested for disorderly conduct at a New England Patriots game. He also recently had elbow surgery to repair his previous Tommy John surgery and is expected to be out until June.<\/p>\n Bailey is 33 and was once a good pitcher for the Reds until injuries sidetracked his career. Last year, however, he had his best season since 2013. He was 13-9 with the A\u2019s and Royals, combining for a 4.57 ERA. Not amazing, but better than 2018 when he was 1-14 with a 6.09 ERA.<\/p>\n The Twins won 101 games last year, winning the AL Central crown, but losing to the Yankees in the playoffs. They\u2019re hoping to not only repeat in the AL Central, but also get past the other AL heavyweights in October.<\/p>\n The Miami Marlins search for a veteran outfielder ended on Saturday. MLB Network\u2019s Jon Heyman reports the team\u00a0has finalized a two-year deal<\/a>\u00a0with Corey Dickerson. The deal is for $17.5 million,\u00a0according to MLB.com\u2019s Mark Feinsand<\/a>.<\/p>\n Miami had also been connected to Yasiel Puig in recent days. It\u2019s not clear whether the addition of Dickerson will change their interest level. Puig will obviously come at a greater cost, and the Marlins aren\u2019t likely to spend a lot in free agency.<\/p>\n Dickerson, 30, has had a few productive seasons in MLB. He was an All-Star for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2017 and a Gold Glove winner for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2018. Last season, he slashed .304\/.341\/.565 with 12 homers and 59 RBIs over 78 games with Pittsburgh and the Philadelphia Phillies.<\/p>\n Two notable dominoes have fallen on the third base market.\u00a0Mike Moustakas’ four-year, $64 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds\u00a0set the tone.\u00a0Anthony Rendon’s seven-year, $245 million deal\u00a0with the Los Angeles Angels raised the bar. Now we’re waiting to see which domino will fall next.<\/p>\n Josh Donaldson is arguably the best free agent still on the board. But there are other interesting possibilities developing with Colorado Rockies superstar Nolan Arenado and former NL MVP Kris Bryant potentially on the trade market. The next move at third base, whatever it might be, could set off franchise-changing events. That\u2019s especially true if teams get motivated enough to trade for Arenado or Bryant.<\/p>\n FOX Sports’ Jon Morosi reported Friday that the Braves have at least discussed the possibility of trading for Arenado.<\/p>\n Sources: #Braves<\/a> have inquired to #Rockies<\/a> on a Nolan Arenado trade, although discussions between the teams have not been active recently. Atlanta is said to be wary of the salary commitment but has the sort of prospect group Colorado wants in any Arenado deal. @MLB<\/a> @MLBNetwork<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 27, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Would that represent a fallback option for the Braves if Donaldson goes to Washington? Could the Nationals shift their attention to Bryant if Donaldson goes the other way? And what if the Texas Rangers get involved?<\/p>\n There are a lot of moving parts here. With Rendon already having shaken up the position, it’s now possible that four of the hot corner’s best could be on the move.<\/p>\n What a wild time.<\/p>\n As an extension of the third base situation, Morosi believes the Rangers are the most prominent suitors for free agent Nicholas Castellanos.<\/p>\n From MLB.com:<\/p>\n “When you think about what they were able to do there with the pitching side of things, having some pretty low-cost guys that have filled out the rotation there … now that frees up all the big-time money for the bat,” Morosi said on MLB Network’s “Hot Stove” program. “They’re still pursuing that. And the fact that they did not bring in Rendon I believe has allowed them to make this play for Castellanos.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n If the Rangers spend their money on Castellanos, then Donaldson’s decision likely comes down to Atlanta or Washington.<\/p>\n Castellanos, 27, finished with 27 homers and 58 doubles overall last season between Chicago and Detroit. His .321\/.356\/.646 slash line with Chicago greatly boosted his value. He\u2019s more than a consolation prize, and he\u2019s an ideal fit for Texas.<\/p>\n The New York Mets have been busy during the offseason, but there’s one rumored move they haven’t completed just yet.<\/p>\n Reports all winter have pointed toward the Mets pursuing a trade for Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Starling Marte. As MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reported Thursday, that door remains wide open.<\/p>\n No evidence anything is close but at some point Mets and Pirates exchanged names on proposed Starling Marte trade. Brandon Nimmo\u2019s name came up but Pirates may prefer prospects. Other teams known to have checked on Marte: Padres, D-Backs, Rangers, others.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 27, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n As Heyman also notes, a trade is not imminent. That part is basically the same thing we’ve heard all along and is probably why fans are shrugging their shoulders rather than sitting on the edge of their seats. That names have been exchanged though gives it a little more juice.<\/p>\n Marte, 31, was an All-Star in 2016 and is coming off back-to-back solid seasons. Overall, he hit .286\/.335\/..481 with 43 home runs, 154 RBIs and 58 stolen over his last 277 games. In between, he was suspended 80 games for violating MLB’s PED policy.<\/p>\n The Marte talks stem from New York\u2019s desire to add a true center fielder for 2020. Jake Marisnick, who was acquired from Houston this month, gives them one option. The Mets also have Brandon Nimmo, Jeff McNeil, Michael Conforto and Yoenis Cespedes, if healthy, as outfield options. But they\u2019re all better suited on the corners.<\/p>\n Just when you think the Chicago White Sox are done spending money and adding key free agents, another name has reportedly landed on their wishlist.<\/p>\n According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the latest free agent to get attention from Chicago is outfielder Yasiel Puig.<\/p>\n According to sources, the White Sox remain engaged with the RF market despite this month’s trade for Nomar Mazara. Yasiel Puig appears to be a primary target.<\/p>\n \u2014 Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 26, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Though for what it\u2019s worth, Bruce Levine of 670 The Score in Chicago hears there have been no talks between the sides.<\/p>\n The Chicago White Sox have zero negotiations going on with Yasiel Puig\u2019s people according to MLB sources .<\/p>\n \u2014 Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) December 27, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Puig, 29, split the 2019 season between the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians. He finished with a .267\/.327\/.458 batting line to go along with 24 total home runs and 84 RBIs. Only two of those home runs came in his 49 games with Cleveland.<\/p>\n The win-now White Sox have already scooped up four notable free agents. That group consists of catcher Yasmani Grandal (four years, $73 million), pitcher Gio Gonzalez (one year, $5 million), former AL Cy Young award winner Dallas Keuchel (three years, $55.5 million) and designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion (one year, $12 million). They’ve also acquired outfielder Nomar Mazara in a trade with the Texas Rangers.<\/p>\n The potential addition of Puig or Nicholas Castellanos, who the team is also reportedly pursuing, would further bolster a lineup that showed promise but lacked power in 2019. Chicago finished with the six fewest home runs in MLB, but the front office seems focused on adding pop.<\/p>\n The Cincinnati Reds are another team transitioning from rebuild to win-now mode.<\/p>\n After signing Mike Moustakas to\u00a0a four-year, $44 million deal\u00a0and adding veteran pitcher Wade Miley on a two-year, $15 million contract, MLB Network’s Jon Heyman says the Reds are now in talks to add Japanese star Shogo Akiyama.<\/p>\n Reds are in talks for CF Shogo Akiyama, previously of Seibu. Thought to have decent chance. @nikkansports<\/a> was on it<\/p>\n \u2014 Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 26, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The 31-year-old outfielder batted .303\/.392\/.471 with 20 home runs, 62 RBI, 12 stolen bases, and 112 runs this past season for the Saitama Seibu Lions of Nippon Professional Baseball. It’s expected that he will transition well and be an immediate contributor in MLB.<\/p>\n Nikkan Sports believes\u00a0the Reds are the favorites to sign Akiyama. The San Diego Padres are reportedly in the mix as well. A decision is expected before the new year.<\/p>\n The Chicago White Sox are leading the offseason in splashy moves and might be poised to make another notable addition.<\/p>\n As MLB Network’s Jon Heyman first reported on Monday, the White Sox are in “serious pursuit” of free-agent slugger Edwin Encarnacion and could reach a deal after the holidays.<\/p>\n Chisox said to be very serious in pursuit of Edwin Encarnacion. Nothing likely to be completed\/announced til after the holiday but they appear to be at the forefront of talks.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 23, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n FOX Sports’ Jon Morosi says the\u00a0White Sox are also considering Nicholas Castellanos<\/a>, who led MLB with 58 doubles last season while splitting time between the Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs.<\/p>\n The White Sox won’t be able to sign both, but their connection to both strongly suggests they’re committed to adding another core bat to go with Jose Abreu, Yoan Moncada, Tim Anderson and Eloy Jimenez.<\/p>\n A week after making a big splash by signing Madison Bumgarner, the Arizona Diamondbacks made another power move, adding slugger Kole Calhoun. Per multiple reports, the deal is for two years and $16 million with a third-year club option:<\/p>\n Outfielder Kole Calhoun and the Arizona Diamondbacks are in agreement on a two-year, $16 million deal, sources tell ESPN. The contract includes a third-year club option for $9 million. @jonmorosi<\/a>, @Joelsherman1<\/a>, @nickpiecoro<\/a> and @Feinsand<\/a> were among those with details on it.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 24, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Calhoun has spent his entire seven-year major league career with the Los Angeles Angels, but will switch leagues and cross the state border and head to Phoenix where he will join a team that is aggressively looking to contend with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West.<\/p>\n The 32-year-old hit .232 with 33 home runs in 152 games last season with the Angels. Calhoun played collegiately at Arizona State and will return to familiar confines.<\/p>\n By signing Bumgarner and Calhoun, who are both on the south side of 30, the Diamondbacks feel they are ready to push their chips in to contend now \u2014 mixing established veterans with a young squad. Maybe they will be the team in 2020 to finally give the Dodgers a run for NL West supremacy.<\/p>\n Not surprisingly, the rebuilding Detroit Tigers have been among the least aggressive teams during Hot Stove season. That tide turned a bit on Saturday when Detroit reached matching one-year, $6.1 million agreements with veteran sluggers C.J. Cron and Jonathan Schoop.<\/p>\n Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press was the\u00a0first to report the Schoop signing<\/a>. The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal\u00a0broke the Cron deal<\/a>.<\/p>\n Both players suited up for the AL Central champion Minnesota Twins in 2019, where they contributed to the team’s MLB record 307 home runs.<\/p>\n Cron, 29, batted .253\/.311\/.469 with 25 home runs and 78 RBI. He will serve as the Tigers’ starting first baseman in 2020.<\/p>\n Schoop, 28, hit .256\/.304\/.473 with 23 home runs and 59 RBI. He will step in as Detroit’s starting second baseman.<\/p>\n Neither player figures to be a long-term solution in Detroit. Both could be excellent trade chips in July if they put up solid power numbers again.<\/p>\n A high-ranking MLB executive predicts two of MLB’s elite players will be traded this winter.<\/p>\n According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the anonymous source believes the Boston Red Sox will trade Mookie Betts and the Cleveland Indians will trade Francisco Lindor prior to opening day.<\/p>\n High-ranking exec predicts that both Betts and Lindor will be traded this winter. Thinks it makes sense for both Red Sox and Indians to turn page, capitalize on value that is more likely to depreciate in the months ahead as Betts, Lindor edge toward free agency.<\/p>\n \u2014 Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) December 20, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reports the\u00a0Indians have asked teams for their best and final offers<\/a>\u00a0so they can assess Lindor’s value this weekend. Many are viewing the Indians request as a deadline, though at this point no trade appears to be imminent.<\/p>\n The Red Sox trading Betts would center around their desire to cut payroll. Boston was just hit with\u00a0a team-record $13.4 million luxury tax bill\u00a0after missing the postseason with a league-high $228 million payroll.\u00a0The Indians already traded two-time Cy Young\u00a0award winner Corey Kluber to the Texas Rangers. They appear headed toward a rebuild.<\/p>\n Veteran infielder Ian Kinsler is set to retire,\u00a0The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported Friday.<\/p>\n Kinsler, who has one year and $4.25 million remaining on his contract with the San Diego Padres, will transition into a role in San Diego\u2019s front office.<\/p>\n Ian Kinsler is retiring, but will remain with the #Padres<\/a> in front-office capacity, sources tell The Athletic. Kinsler is still owed $4.25M on his contract, and will work out a financial settlement with the club. Full story coming shortly.<\/p>\n \u2014 Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 20, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The 37-year-old played 14 seasons in MLB. He spent the majority of his career with the Texas Rangers, appearing in back-to-back World Series in 2010 and 2011. After a four-year stint with the Detroit Tigers, Kinsler spent time with the Los Angeles Angels and Boston Red Sox, where he won a World Series ring, before finishing with San Diego.<\/p>\n A herniated cervical disk prevented Kinsler from finishing the 2019 season. He says the condition factored into his decision to retire.<\/p>\n \u201cTo be honest, it was a factor in my decision,\u201d\u00a0Kinsler told The Athletic. \u201cMy pride wouldn\u2019t let me go halfway at something that I\u2019ve been doing at 100 percent for my whole baseball life.\u201d<\/p>\n Kinsler will retire one hit shy of 2,000. He earned four All-Star selections, two Gold Glove awards at second base, and finishes with 257 home runs and 243 stolen bases.<\/p>\n The Houston Astros have agreed to a two-year, $7 million deal with catcher Martin Maldonado, reports MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.<\/p>\n C Martin Maldonado has agreed to a two-year, $7M deal with the Astros, per a source. Maldonado had multiple offers, but took less money to return to Houston.<\/p>\n \u2014 Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 21, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Based on the report it’s clear Maldonado preferred a return to Houston. He served as the personal catcher for Gerrit Cole down the stretch in 2019 after being acquired from the Chicago Cubs. That led to speculation he might join Cole with the Yankees.<\/p>\n The 32-year-old won’t provide much offense. He produced a meager .213\/.293\/.378 slash line in 2019. Maldonado\u2019s defense and game-calling skills are highly regarded though. He should settle into a reserve role in 2020, though the Astros starting job is still open following the retirement of Brian McCann.<\/p>\n The Chicago Cubs added depth to their bullpen Friday, signing veteran Ryan Tepera to a one-year deal.<\/p>\n The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma reports\u00a0Tepera will earn $900K in the big leagues<\/a>\u00a0and $300K in the minors.<\/p>\n The 32-year-old posted a disappointing 4.98 ERA in 2019, but had posted a sub-4.00 ERA in each of the four previous seasons while striking out a batter per inning.<\/p>\n The Texas Rangers already pulled off the biggest trade of the offseason,\u00a0acquiring two-time Cy Young award winner Corey Kluber\u00a0from the Cleveland Indians.<\/p>\n Could another notable Rangers deal be in the offing?<\/p>\n According to the Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal,\u00a0it’s possible.<\/p>\n The Rangers are still looking for an impact bat after missing out on Anthony Rendon. While signing Josh Donaldson remains a possibility, reports suggest it’s a fading one. If the Rangers don\u2019t land Donaldson, Rosenthal says their focus could turn to a potential trade for Colorado Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado.<\/p>\n The Rangers are among the clubs talking to the Rockies about Arenado, according to major-league sources. The loser of the Donaldson\u2019s tug-of-war between the Braves and Nationals would be another possibility. Both the Cardinals and Dodgers have a longstanding interest in Arenado, though Dodgers officials believe there is little chance the Rockies would trade him within the division.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The Rockies signed Arenado to\u00a0an eight-year, $260 million contract extension\u00a0before the 2019 season. That seemingly locked him up for the long-term. However, the deal does include an opt-out after the 2021 season. With that possibility looming, MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reported the Rockies would be willing to listen to offers.<\/p>\n Needless to say, there’s enough smoke here to keep our attention.<\/p>\n Francisco Lindor is another big name that’s being mentioned frequently as a trade possibility.<\/p>\n According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Cincinnati Reds have emerged as\u00a0a potential suitor for the perennial All-Star.<\/p>\n The Reds have been engaged with the Indians in talks about the superstar shortstop, according to a source, thrusting Cincinnati into a mix that reportedly includes the Dodgers and Padres, among other clubs. The clubs have not confirmed the talks.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The cross-state rivals were part of a blockbuster trade that sent\u00a0Yasiel Puig to Cleveland and Trevor Bauer to Cincinnati\u00a0during the 2019 season.<\/p>\n The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal adds that trade talks regarding Lindor have \u201creached a critical stage.\u201d That could be an indication we\u2019ll know if and\/or where Lindor will be traded very soon.<\/p>\n Maikel Franco, who was non-tendered by the Philadelphia Phillies earlier this month, reportedly has a new home. He\u2019s joining the Kansas City Royals where he figures to be their new third baseman.<\/p>\n MLB.com\u2019s Jesse Sanchez<\/a>\u00a0first reported the deal was close and\u00a0Jon Heyman of MLB Network<\/a>\u00a0said it was done, along with a $2.95 million salary for Franco. He can earn another $1.05 million in incentives, Heyman reports.<\/p>\n Franco is a former top prospect who never quite made good on his potential in Philly. He did hit 88 homers over the past four seasons, but he slashed .249\/.302\/.431 over parts of six seasons. For the rebuilding Royals, it\u2019s a wise buy-low move. Franco might add some pop to their lineup, and if he\u2019s good enough, they could flip him at the trade deadline.<\/p>\n The Los Angeles Angels, now needing to fix their struggling rotation after landing Anthony Rendon, have reportedly agreed to terms with ex-Atlanta Braves pitcher Julio Teheran. The news comes to us from Jeff Passan from ESPN, who says it\u2019s a one-year deal:<\/p>\n Right-hander Julio Teheran and the Los Angeles Angels are in agreement on a one-year contract, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 19, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal reports the contract\u00a0will pay Teheran $9 million<\/a>.<\/p>\n Teheran, 28, was once pegged as Atlanta\u2019s ace but has been mostly up-and-down for his career. Last season, he finished 10-11 with a 3.81 ERA. He was 9-9 with a 3.94 the year before that. The Angels came into the offseason needing high-end starting pitching. Teheran is not that, but he could help an Angels team that ranked 25th in ERA last season.<\/p>\n The Chicago White Sox agreed to a deal with a pitcher Thursday, just not the one people expected. The team reportedly\u00a0agreed to terms<\/a>\u00a0with lefty Gio Gonzalez, according to Jon Heyman.<\/p>\n Gonzalez, 34, posted a 3.50 ERA over 87 1\/3 innings with the Milwaukee Brewers last season. While the team used Gonzalez as a starter, he rarely pitched into the sixth inning. Gonzalez may be relied upon more with the White Sox, who could use some stability at the back end of their rotation.<\/p>\n The move brings Gonzalez back to the White Sox for the third time. Gonzalez was drafted by the team in 2004, but has never pitched in a major-league game for the White Sox. The team traded him away twice when Gonzalez was in the minors.<\/p>\n The White Sox are\u00a0still rumored to be pursuing former Los Angeles Dodgers starter Hyun-Jin Ryu. The addition of Gonzalez should not prevent the team from also bringing in Ryu.<\/p>\n The Milwaukee Brewers found their replacement for Eric Thames. The team reportedly agreed to a\u00a0one-year, $5 million deal<\/a>\u00a0with Justin Smoak on Thursday, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN.<\/p>\n Smoak, 33, hit .208\/.342\/.406 over 500 plate appearances with the Toronto Blue Jays last season. He\u2019s a switch hitter who has shown more power against right-handed hitters over his career. Given that, the team could opt to platoon Smoak at first base. Ryan Braun \u2014 who played 18 games at first base in 2018 \u2014 obliterated left-handed pitching last season.<\/p>\n The Chicago Cubs are facing a payroll crunch and it’s showing in the moves the team has and hasn’t made this winter. On Wednesday, the Cubs added veteran outfielder Ian Miller on a minor-league deal,\u00a0The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported<\/a>. That marks the third straight day Chicago has inked a minor-league deal aimed at building cheap depth.<\/p>\n On Tuesday, it was utilityman Hernan Perez. On Monday, it was outfielder Noel Cuevas. Meanwhile, fan and clubhouse favorite Nicholas Castellanos has reportedly remained on the team’s radar, but because of the financial situation a deal is unlikely.<\/p>\n From The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma:<\/p>\n Epstein hasn\u2019t been shy about his affection for Castellanos. The right-handed outfielder posted a .321\/.356\/.646 slash line in 51 games with the Cubs after being traded by Detroit. Perhaps just as importantly, he was a personality that the clubhouse has been lacking. Castellanos\u2019 \u201cEvery day is Opening Day\u201d attitude fits in well with Epstein\u2019s calls for urgency.<\/p>\n …<\/p>\n But with ownership cracking down hard on spending, Epstein has to maneuver around an inelastic budget. Signing Castellanos would require both shedding salary and finding space in the outfield.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n The Athletic report notes that Castellanos wants a Cubs reunion. He\u2019s reportedly narrowed his search to the Cubs, Texas Rangers and San Francisco Giants. The latter two teams are very clearly willing to spend money this winter, which to the disappointment of Cubs will make them an even longer shot.<\/p>\n Second baseman Eric Sogard is returning to the Milwaukee Brewers. According to The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal, Sogard and the Brewers have agreed to a\u00a0one-year deal with an option for 2021<\/a>.<\/p>\n Sogard, 33, spent the 2019 season with the Toronto Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays, on a quest to rebuild his value after an abysmal 2018. He did just that, putting up some of the best numbers of his career with a .290\/.353\/.457 triple slash.<\/p>\n The Brewers were the team that took a chance on Sogard before the 2017 season, signing him to a minor-league contract after he\u2019d missed all of 2016 due to knee surgery. He rewarded them with a .273\/.393\/.378 batting line over 94 big league games, and even hit a massive three-run home run in his very first game. Now he\u2019s back, and the Brewers are hoping his 2019 numbers follow him into 2020.<\/p>\n Matt Kemp has reunited with Don Mattingly. Kemp, 35, reportedly agreed to a\u00a0minor-league deal <\/a>with the Miami Marlins on Wednesday, according to USA Today\u2019s Bob Nightengale.<\/p>\n Kemp was limited to just 20 games last season due to injuries and poor play. He hit just .200\/.210\/.283 in 62 plate appearances. The Reds cut him in May. Kemp was not picked up by another club.<\/p>\n While there\u2019s no guarantee Kemp will make the Marlins, he should have the support of his manager. Mattingly managed Kemp from 2011 to 2014, when both men were with the Dodgers. Kemp had two of his finest seasons during that stretch, finishing second in the MVP voting in 2011.<\/p>\n The Los Angeles Dodgers, eager to finally break their World Series slump, are looking everywhere this offseason for the addition that could get them over the hump. Now, that could also mean Boston Red Sox star outfielder Mookie Betts.<\/p>\n According to\u00a0Bob Nightengale at USA Today, the Red Sox and Dodgers are \u201cengaged in exploratory trade talks.\u201d The Dodgers, as we\u2019ve talked about already, also covet Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor, and he remains their No. 1 trade priority. Writes Nightengale:<\/p>\n The Dodgers\u2019 top priority remains Cleveland Indians\u00a0shortstop Francisco Lindor, but if the two sides can\u2019t agree on a\u00a0package for the All-Star, the Dodgers could turn its attention to Boston.<\/p>\n The Red Sox are much more inclined to trade Betts \u2013 who\u2019s projected to earn $27-30 million in his final year before free agency \u2013 than Cleveland is with Lindor. The Red Sox, who had baseball\u2019s highest payroll at $244 million, and will pay $13 million in luxury tax penalties, want to slash their payroll to be under the $208 million tax threshold in 2020.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n According to\u00a0USA Today\u2019s report, the Dodgers would be willing to part with Corey Seager, their former Rookie of the Year, but not Gavin Lux. Other names in the mix: young catcher Will Smith and outfielders Joc Pederson and Alex Verdugo.<\/p>\n We should make it clear that there\u2019s a lot of space between \u201cexploratory trade talks\u201d and a deal getting close to done. The Dodgers are obviously casting a wide net, so Dodgers fans would be wise not to confuse due diligence with anything being on the immediate horizon.<\/p>\n The Milwaukee Brewers added another veteran bat Tuesday after signing corner infielder Ryon Healy to a one-year deal.<\/p>\n Financial terms of the deal have not been announced.<\/p>\n Healy, who turns 28 in January, was limited to 47 games with the Seattle Mariners last season after undergoing hip surgery. He flashed big power in the two previous seasons \u2014 combining for 49 home runs \u2014 but struggled to produce much beyond that. His career .261\/.298\/.452 batting line doesn’t fuel much excitement about his upside. If healthy though, he could be a solid addition to Milwaukee\u2019s bench.<\/p>\n The St. Louis Cardinals have agreed to terms with Kwang-hyun Kim, a lefty pitcher from Korea, according to the\u00a0St. Louis Post-Dispatch. The Post-Dispatch\u00a0reports:<\/p>\n Kim, who has pitched for the SK Wyrens in the Korean Baseball Organization for the past 13 seasons, has been in town for a couple of days undergoing a physical and talking contract with the Cardinals, which includes a “posting” fee to the KBO club.<\/p>\n Kim is said to average 91 to 92 hours an hour with his fastball, with it ticking as high as 96. He also employs a slider to success but control seems his mainstay. He struck out 310 batters and walked only 68 over 326 1\/3 innings in his past two seasons.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Kim is 31 years old and would figure to mix into a Cardinals\u2019 starting staff that includes Jack Flaherty, Dakota Hudson, Miles Mikolas, Adam Wainwright. Carlos Martinez, who was once their ace but most recently was St. Louis\u2019 closer, could factor in there as well.<\/p>\n Contract details have not yet been made public.<\/p>\n Veteran lefty Wade Miley is headed to his fourth team in four years, as he\u2019s reportedly agreed to a two-year deal worth $15 million to join the Cincinnati Reds. Miley, 33, was solid last year for the Houston Astros, and figures to bolster a Reds rotation that has NL Central contention in its sights.<\/p>\n MLB.com\u2019s Mark Feinsand<\/a>\u00a0broke the news:<\/p>\n Miley contract breakdown with Reds, per source:<\/p>\n 2020: $6M Deal also includes annual performance bonuses up to $500K based on innings pitched.<\/p>\n \u2014 Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 17, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n With Miley in the mix, the Reds rotation now includes Luis Castillo, Sonny Gray, Trevor Bauer and Anthony DeSclafani. That looks promising on paper, especially when you consider the Reds finished a surprising eighth last season in team ERA.<\/p>\n Miley has bounced around the league, but has been an asset the past two seasons with the Brewers and Astros. Reds pitching coach Derek Johnson worked with Miley in Milwaukee and was one of the reasons Miley chose Cincinnati, according to reports.<\/p>\n Miley was particularly good in the first half of 2019, going 7-4 with a 3.28 ERA. He fell off a bit in the second half with a 5.07 ERA, but he finished the season with a respectable 3.98 ERA and a 14-6 record. The Reds would take that for $15 million.<\/p>\n The Minnesota Twins are bringing back Sergio Romo for at least another year. The team re-signed Romo to a\u00a0one-year deal<\/a>\u00a0Monday, according to Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com.<\/p>\n The deal is worth $5 million, though Romo, 36, can make up to\u00a0$10 million<\/a>\u00a0based on incentives, according to Ken Rosenthal of the Athletic. The deal also includes a club option, meaning Romo could remain with the team in 2021 if he pitches well.<\/p>\n Romo proved to be a solid addition to the Twins down the stretch. After joining the team midseason, Romo posted a 3.18 ERA over 22 2\/3 innings.<\/p>\n The Houston Astros like what they\u2019ve seen from Joe Smith the past couple seasons. The team agreed to bring back the reliever Monday, signing Smith to a\u00a0two-year deal<\/a>, according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. The deal is reportedly\u00a0worth $8 million<\/a>, according to Jake Kaplan of the Athletic.<\/p>\n That\u2019s a small price to pay for a pitcher with Smith\u2019s potential. Smith was limited by an Achilles injury early last season, but put up fantastic numbers once he returned. In 25 innings, Smith posted a sterling 1.80 ERA. Smith has been particularly tough against righties during his career, holding them to a .215\/.279\/.308 slash line. If he\u2019s healthy, Smith should once again emerge as a strong late-inning option for the Astros.<\/p>\n The Milwaukee Brewers have found their new left fielder. The team reportedly agreed to a\u00a0two-year, $20 million<\/a>\u00a0deal with former Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Avisail Garcia on Monday, according to Jon Heyman.<\/p>\n The 28-year-old Garcia is coming off a strong season with the Rays. In 530 plate appearances, Garcia hit .282\/.332\/.464, with 20 home runs.<\/p>\n Garcia reportedly had longer offers but opted for a two-year deal so he could build up his value, according to Heyman.<\/p>\n Avisail Garcia turned down 3 year deals with Brewers and elsewhere due to the expiring basic agreement in 2 years and the chance to raise the AAV afterward. Betting on himself #brewers<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 16, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The deal also sets up Garcia to become a free agent when Major League Baseball\u2019s collective-bargaining agreement expires. It\u2019s a risky move considering no one knows how negotiations will play out. Garcia must be confident in his abilities.<\/p>\n The Toronto Blue Jays have been quiet this offseason outside of their two-year, $24 million deal with Tanner Roark. That could change soon though based on the latest reports.<\/p>\n According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman<\/a>, Toronto is making a serious run at free agent left-hander Hyun-Jin Ryu.<\/p>\n The National League Cy Young runner-up showed his ceiling in 2019 thanks to a relatively healthy season. He wasn’t able to make every scheduled start, but he made the most of the 29 he did make.<\/p>\n Ryu, 32, finished with a 14-5 record while posting a league-best 2.32 ERA. If signed by Toronto, he would immediately slot in as the team’s ace. The Los Angeles Dodgers, with whom Ryu has pitched for his first six MLB seasons, and Minnesota Twins, are other teams reportedly interested.<\/p>\n One of the most talked about names on the trade market this week has been two-time AL Cy Young winner Corey Kluber. The long-time Cleveland Indians ace has been made available in talks and reports on Saturday suggested several teams were showing interest.<\/p>\n However, as The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal, one main suitor has also dropped out of the race,.<\/p>\n As for the Los Angeles Dodgers, they are now among the teams in the mix.<\/p>\n #Dodgers<\/a> also have been in mix for Kluber, sources say. Unclear where they currently stand.<\/p>\n \u2014 Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 15, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n MLB\u2019s Network\u2019s Jon Heyman<\/a>\u00a0says the San Diego Padres and Texas Rangers are involved as well.<\/p>\n Kluber’s 2019 was basically a lost season thanks to a slow start \u2014 5.80 ERA in first seven starts \u2014 and a season-ending forearm fracture suffered on May 1. In the five previous seasons, Kluber had been durable and at times dominant, posting a 2.85 ERA over 160 starts.<\/p>\n Heyman previously suggested teams could wait until spring training to gauge Kluber\u2019s health. At this point the market seems to be moving too fast for that to hold true.<\/p>\n The San Diego Padres seem prepared to exhaust every option in their pursuit of a top flight starting pitcher.<\/p>\n MLB Network\u2019s Jon Heyman reports<\/a>\u00a0the Padres are exploring a potential trade for a Cleveland Indians starting pitcher. That interest likely centers around two-time AL Cy Young award winner Corey Kluber. There have been multiple rumors surrounding Kluber this week. The Los Angeles Angels are known to be considering trading for him as well, though Heyman thinks Kluber will need a healthy spring training to improve his value.<\/p>\n The Padres are also reportedly pursuing free agent left-handers Madison Bumgarner and Dallas Keuchel.<\/p>\n Interest in free-agent outfielder Yasiel Puig appears to have picked up this week.<\/p>\n According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman, the Miami Marlins \u2014 yes, you read that correctly \u2014\u00a0are known to have held a meeting with Puig<\/a>\u00a0at the winter meetings in San Diego. But they weren’t alone.<\/p>\n Multiple mystery teams leaves a wide range of possibilities. The Marlins are an undeniably interesting suitor given Puig’s rocky past relationship with current Miami manager Don Mattingly. Beyond that, the Marlins aren’t typically big players in free agency. They’ve made it known an outfield power hitter is a priority, which indicates they\u2019re willing to spend there.<\/p>\n The Chicago Cubs have brought back a former closer Brandon Morrow on a minor-league deal, in hopes that they can get a bargain on a return to form.\u00a0ESPN\u2019s Jesse Rogers<\/a>\u00a0had the news:<\/p>\n Cubs and Brandon Morrow agree on a minor league deal, per source. Says his arm is feeling great. Hasn’t pitched since before the all-star break in 2018.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) December 13, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Morrow, 35, spent the last two years with the Cubs \u2014 or at least getting paychecks from them. He was injured midway through 2018 and hasn\u2019t pitched since then. Back in 2017, he signed a two-year, $21 million deal with a third-year option that the Cubs bought out at $3 million for 2020. Now they\u2019re bringing him back on a team-friendly deal in hopes that he can find his mojo again. He was an effective reliever for the Dodgers in 2017 and for the Padres the two seasons before that. He did save 22 games for the Cubs in 2018 before being sidetracked by biceps and elbow injuries.<\/p>\n The Milwaukee Brewers have announced a one-year deal with veteran left-hander Brett Anderson. It’s a guaranteed $5 million deal,\u00a0according to ESPN’s Buster Olney<\/a>. Anderson can earn up to $2 million in incentives.<\/p>\n It’s the latest move aimed at bolstering the Brewers rotation. Milwaukee also signed right-hander Josh Lindblom during the winter meetings.<\/p>\n Anderson, who will be entering his age-32 season, has been limited by injuries throughout his career. That includes two back surgeries. When healthy, he’s always flashed promise. That was the case in 2019. In 31 starts for the Oakland Athletics, Anderson posted a 3.89 ERA. He won\u2019t be a high strikeout pitcher, but the Brewers would gladly take a repeat of his 2019 season in 2020.<\/p>\n The Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a deal with Japanese slugger Yoshitomo Tsutsugo, who hit 139 home runs in his last four seasons with the Yokohama Bay Stars of Japan\u2019s Nippon Professional Baseball. Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times has the details:<\/p>\n BREAKING: #Rays<\/a> finalizing deal to sign Japanese OF\/INF\/DH Yoshitomo Tsutsugo, a lefty power bat. Two-year deal would be in range of $12M, plus posting fee (about another $2.4M)<\/p>\n \u2014 Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) December 13, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Tsutsugo is 28 and has played left field, first base and third base throughout his career, but most recently has played a lot of outfield. He could move around for the Rays, and also spend time at DH. His best season in Japan came in 2016 when he hit 44 homers with 110 RBIs and had a .322 batting average. At just $12 million over two years, he could be a bargain for the Rays if his bat catches up to major-league pitching.<\/p>\n The Boston Red Sox were active on the final day of the winter meetings, reaching a pair of notable deals for the 2020 season.<\/p>\n The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal reports the Red Sox have\u00a0a one-year agreement<\/a>\u00a0with Martin Perez. The veteran left-hander will earn $6 million in 2020. The deal includes a $6.5 million club option for 2021.<\/p>\n Perez, 28, pitched reliably in his first six seasons with the Texas Rangers, but has struggled over the last two, posting a 5.49 ERA in 250.2 innings. He went 10-7 with the Minnesota Twins last season.<\/p>\n The timing is interesting coming off reports that the Red Sox are shopping David Price. Perez could presumably step into the void should Price be traded this winter.<\/p>\n According to Robert Murray, who previously worked for The Athletic, the Red Sox are also in agreement with free-agent infielder Jose Peraza on\u00a0a one-year deal<\/a>.<\/p>\n Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports the deal will be\u00a0worth close to $3 million plus incentives<\/a>.<\/p>\n Once considered a top prospect for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Peraza has been up and down since being traded to the Cincinnati Reds before the 2016 season. He was non-tendered by the Reds after hitting .239\/.285\/.346 with six home runs in 141 games in 2019.<\/p>\n The 25-year-old provides versatility in the field. He\u2019s spent time at second base, third base and shortstop. Last season he even played some outfield. That\u2019s worth noting with Boston reportedly looking to trade Jackie Bradley Jr. If Peraza\u2019s offense comes around, he could be a bargain.<\/p>\n The New York Yankees are bringing back outfielder Brett Gardner for at least one more season. The team re-signed the 36-year-old Gardner to a\u00a0one-year, $12.5 million<\/a>\u00a0deal Thursday, according to George A. King III of the New York Post.<\/p>\n The deal also contains a $10 million option for a second season, according to ESPN\u2019s Jeff Passan. Last year, Gardner hit .251\/.325\/.503, with 28 home runs in 550 plate appearances.<\/p>\n The New York Mets believe they have a bounce-back candidate in Rick Porcello. The team agreed to a\u00a0one-year, $10 million deal<\/a>\u00a0with Porcello on Thursday, according to Jon Heyman.<\/p>\n Porcello, 30, posted a 5.52 ERA over 174 1\/3 innings with the Boston Red Sox in 2019. He\u2019ll look to rebuild his value with the Mets so he can receive a more lucrative pay day next offseason. Throughout most of his career, Porcello has been a dependable, mid-rotation starter who can give a team innings.<\/p>\n With the signing, the Mets now have six starting pitchers. The team could look to move one of them in a deal that would\u00a0give them salary relief<\/a>, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.<\/p>\n The Los Angeles Angels quickly moved on to Plan B after missing out on Gerrit Cole in free agency. On Wednesday, they agreed to\u00a0a seven-year, $245 million contract\u00a0with Anthony Rendon.<\/p>\n According to The Athletic\u2019s Fabian Ardaya, the Angels might now turn to the trade market to land a starting pitcher, with two-time Cy Young award winner and current Cleveland Indians ace Corey Kluber appearing to be their top choice.<\/p>\n The Angels have expressed interest in trading for Indians right-hander Corey Kluber, sources tell The Athletic. The club has prioritized its pursuit of Anthony Rendon, but they\u2019re exploring all options.<\/p>\n \u2014 Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) December 12, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Joel Sherman from the New York Post\u00a0says the Angels also have interest in Cleveland right-hander Carlos Carrasco.<\/p>\n No deal appears imminent, but it is clear that Los Angeles is seeking a frontline starter to help bolster the starting rotation. The Angels starting five has been weak spot for several years and needs to be addressed if the franchise hopes to take a step forward in 2020.<\/p>\n One of the top relievers available in free agency has found a new home.<\/p>\n ESPN\u2019s Jeff Passan reports the Los Angeles Dodgers have reached a one-year, $10 million agreement with former Oakland Athletics closer Blake Treinen.<\/p>\n Right-hander Blake Treinen is in agreement with the Los Angeles Dodgers on a one-year, $10 million deal, sources tell ESPN. Treinen had multiple offers in that range and chose the Dodgers.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n It\u2019s a solid bounce back move for the Dodgers after missing out on Gerrit Cole. The bullpen is a greater area of need for Los Angeles anyway after several key relievers faltered down the stretch in 2019.<\/p>\n Treinen, 31, is one year removed from an All-Star season as the A\u2019s closer. In 80.1 innings, he posted a minuscule 0.78 ERA while notching 38 saves. He lost the closer\u2019s role in 2019, finishing with a disappointing 4.91 ERA in 58.2 innings. The hope for LA is that he\u2019ll settle somewhere in the middle in 2020.<\/p>\n The Toronto Blue Jays haven’t been heard from much this offseason, but they made a notable move Wednesday after agreeing to terms with free-agent pitcher Tanner Roark.<\/p>\n MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reports it’s\u00a0a two-year, $24 million deal<\/a>.<\/p>\n Roark, 33, spent most of his career with the Washington Nationals before moving to the Cincinnati Reds and Oakland Athletics last season. He posted an overall 4.35 ERA with 158 strikeouts and 51 walks over 165 1\/3 innings. The Blue Jays rotation is ripe with opportunity as the team continues a long-term rebuild. If Roark shows well pitching in the AL East he could become a valuable trade asset in July or next winter.<\/p>\n The Milwaukee Brewers added another piece to their pitching staff on Wednesday. Veteran right-hander Josh Lindbloom has agreed to a three-year, $9.1 million deal,\u00a0according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan<\/a>.<\/p>\n Lindblom, 32, last pitched in MLB with the Pirates in 2017. He spent the last two seasons pitching in Korea, where he successfully transitioned from reliever to starter. In 363.1 innings, he posted a 2.68 ERA and a 346\/67 K\/BB ratio. He figures to be a key member of Milwaukee’s rotation in 2020.<\/p>\n The Colorado Rockies are another team that\u2019s been quiet this winter. That changed Wednesday when they re-signed veteran reliever Scott Oberg.<\/p>\n The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal has the details.<\/p>\n Scott Oberg\u2019s three-year, $13M extension with the #Rockies<\/a>, first reported by @BNightengale<\/a>, contains escalators that could increase the three-year total to $15M and the four-year total – if a club option is exercised – to $26M.<\/p>\n \u2014 Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Oberg, 29, has been Colorado\u2019s most reliable reliever over the last two seasons, finishing with a 2.45 ERA in 2018 and a 2.25 ERA last season. That\u2019s a bit troubling for Colorado given the money invested in Wade Davis, Jake McGee and Bryan Shaw. Oberg missed the final six weeks of 2019 due to a blood clot in his right arm, but the Rockies clearly feel he\u2019ll be able to bounce back.<\/p>\n The New York Mets have found their Zack Wheeler replacement, according to reports. They\u2019re close to a deal with former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Michael Wacha.\u00a0Joel Sherman of the New York Post<\/a>\u00a0was first with the deal and\u00a0Yahoo Sports\u2019 Matt Ehalt<\/a>\u00a0confirmed they\u2019re finishing the final details.<\/p>\n Wacha’s deal: $3 million base, $10 million max so incentives heavy, source confirms.<\/p>\n Seems like a good fit for both sides.<\/p>\n Mets not paying a ton for starter they hope can have a bounce back year & Wacha has chance to earn good $ by staying healthy & hit the market next year.<\/p>\n \u2014 Matt Ehalt (@MattEhalt) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Wacha, 28, has a 3.91 ERA after seven seasons in St. Louis. It\u2019s been an up-and-down career for Wacha, who was a hot-shot rookie during the Cardinals\u2019 2013 NL pennant-winning season. He\u2019s never fully lived up that hype. In New York, he\u2019ll be part of a deep pitching staff with Jacod deGrom, Noah Syndergaard and Steven Matz.<\/p>\n The Los Angeles Dodgers and Cleveland Indians are having \u201cserious\u201d trade talks about Francisco Lindor, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today. The two sides have talked about Lindor in the past, as he approaches free agency.<\/p>\n The Los Angeles #Dodgers<\/a> and Cleveland #Indians<\/a> continue to be engaged in serious trade talks for Cleveland All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor, with Cleveland seeking a package of Dodgers prospects including Gavin Lux and Dustin May.<\/p>\n \u2014 Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n While the Dodgers could be a good destination for Lindor before he hits free agency in 2022, there also seem like barriers here. The Dodgers haven\u2019t expressed much interest in trading their top youngsters like Lux and May and the Indians haven\u2019t wanted to part with Indians on the cheap.<\/p>\n Speaking of the Dodgers and their infield,\u00a0Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic<\/a>\u00a0reports that L.A. doesn\u2019t like its chances for Anthony Rendon, now the top free agent on the board.<\/p>\n #Dodgers<\/a> pessimistic on chances of landing free-agent third baseman Anthony Rendon, sources tell The Athletic. #Rangers<\/a> remain heavily involved. #Angels<\/a> also interested, too. #Nationals<\/a> a long shot; Rendon balked at deferrals in their initial seven-year, $210M-$215M offer.<\/p>\n \u2014 Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The Rangers remain the favorites for Rendon, but it\u2019ll be interesting to see if the \u201call-in\u201d Angels decide to go big there now that they\u2019ve missed out on Gerrit Cole.<\/p>\n After missing out on top pitching target\u00a0Gerrit Cole, The Athletic\u2019s Ken Rosenthal says the Los Angeles Dodgers have turned their attention to a long-time rival.<\/p>\n That\u2019s right, Madison Bumgarner, the former ace of the San Francisco Giants, now sits atop the Dodgers wishlist.<\/p>\n #Dodgers<\/a> will now shift their focus to free-agent left-hander Madison Bumgarner, sources tell The Athletic.<\/p>\n \u2014 Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n The Dodgers have been connected to several free agents this winter, which is not unusual. Many believe Anthony Rendon is a high priority for them. However, the Bumgarner report indicates that Los Angeles would like to add another proven starter to the mix. It\u2019s not necessarily a need for the Dodgers even if they lose Hyun-Jin Ryu, but it\u2019s clearly a want.<\/p>\n Considering that Bumgarner will come cheaper than Cole, it could allow Los Angeles to make multiple moves and add impact players to both the rotation and lineup. We could know LA\u2019s next move before the winter meetings are over.<\/p>\n The Chicago White Sox are hoping a change of scenery will help Nomar Mazara find his game.<\/p>\n According to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News<\/a>, the Texas Rangers agreed to trade the 24-year-old outfielder on Tuesday night. Outfield prospect Steele Walker is going to Texas in return.<\/p>\n Since debuting at age 21, Mazara has struggled living up to the incredible hype that preceded his MLB debut. In four seasons, he\u2019s compiled a .261\/.320\/.435 batting line. More shockingly, he\u2019s never hit more than 20 home runs despite possessing immense power. His season homer totals have been 20, 20, 20 and 19 in 2019.<\/p>\n Mazara should take over as Chicago\u2019s every day right fielder.<\/p>\n The New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels have been front and center in the Gerrit Cole sweepstakes. However, it wouldn’t be the winter meetings without a mystery team or two entering the mix.<\/p>\n According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, Cole’s most recent team, the Houston Astros, has “contemplated” ways to bring back their co-ace. In a story that seems related, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal is reporting the\u00a0Astros might consider trading star shortstop Carlos Correa\u00a0to ease a potential payroll crunch.<\/p>\n Among the ideas they have entertained in an attempt to alleviate their payroll crunch, according to major-league sources: A trade of shortstop Carlos Correa, the player they selected with the top pick of the 2012 draft.<\/p>\n No deal appears close, and the timing might not be right for such a move, considering that most teams are set at shortstop and Correa\u2019s trade value is down. But at some point, the Astros will need to make difficult decisions, and Correa might be the odd man out.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n As Sherman notes, signing Cole would push the Astros over the second luxury tax threshold of $228 million. Trading Correa, who is arbitration eligible through the 2021 season, would remove a potentially large salary from the books. Correa made $5 million in 2019 and would be due a raise.<\/p>\n At this point, bringing back Cole seems like a long shot for the Astros given the competition they\u2019re facing. But it sounds like they are willing to do some serious maneuvering if it becomes a real possibility.<\/p>\n After 14 MLB season in which he ranged from solid to All-Star, Adam Jones is heading overseas. The former Orioles outfielder announced Tuesday that he will play for the Orix Buffaloes of Nippon Professional Baseball.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Jones hit .260.313\/.414 with 16 homers with the Arizona Diamondbacks last season, which came after 11 years with the Orioles.<\/p>\n The Twins announced the first two significant moves of their offseason Saturday, signing catcher Alex Avila and starting pitcher Michael Pineda.<\/p>\n Pineda signed a two-year, $20 million contract, according to\u00a0Dan Hayes of The Athletic<\/a>. For Avila, the Twins outbid the catcher\u2019s own father, Tigers general manager Al Avila, with a one-year contract worth $4.25 million, per\u00a0ESPN\u2019s Jeff Passan<\/a>.<\/p>\n Twins have officially signed C Alex Avila and RHP Michael Pineda to contracts after each player passed a physical.<\/p>\n \u2014 LaVelle E. Neal III (@LaVelleNeal) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n Another big-name starting pitcher could be on the trade block.<\/p>\n According to ESPN\u2019s Jeff Passan, veteran left-hander David Price has drawn interest from multiple teams as the Boston Red Sox seek ways to cut their payroll.<\/p>\n The Boston Red Sox continue to pursue ways to shed salary, and multiple teams have targeted starter David Price, sources tell ESPN. He is owed $96 million over the next three years. Red Sox could either attach player with value or potentially pay down some of Price’s remaining $.<\/p>\n \u2014 Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 11, 2019<\/a> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n As Passan notes, Price has three years and $96 million remaining on the seven-year, $217 million deal he signed prior to the 2016 season. That contract made Price the highest paid pitcher in MLB history until Stephen Strasburg\u2019s\u00a0seven-year, $245 million deal on Monday.<\/p>\n Price, 33, finished 2019 with a 4.28 ERA over 22 starts.<\/p>\n The Red Sox had the highest payroll in MLB in 2019 at $229.1 million, but failed to make the postseason. Controlling owner John Henry has since made it clear he wants the team below the competitive balance tax threshold for the 2020 season.<\/p>\n J.D. Martinez put the team in a crunch when he opted to fulfill the final three years of his contract. The Red Sox still owe him $62 million. The Red Sox have reportedly considered trading outfielder Mookie Betts, who will be a free agent following the 2020, and are actively shopping Jackie Bradley Jr. at the winter meetings, according to reports.<\/p>\n While the baseball world digested the\u00a0Philadelphia Phillies signing of Didi Gregorius, the San Francisco Giants were busy making two notable additions of their own.<\/p>\n Free agent pitcher Kevin Gausman reached a one-year agreement with San Francisco,\u00a0according to Andrew Baggarly of The Athletic<\/a>. ESPN\u2019s Jeff Passan reports the deal is\u00a0worth $9 million<\/a>.<\/p>\n Minutes before that, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reported the Giants acquired infielder Zack Cozart and prospect Will Wilson from the Los Angeles Angels for cash considerations.<\/p>\nAngels to sign veteran catcher Jason Castro<\/h2>\n
Nolan Arenado has a \u201850\/50 chance\u2019 of getting dealt<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 31: Twins offer four-year deal to Josh Donaldson<\/h2>\n
Rich Hill, Homer Bailey joining Twins<\/h2>\n
Dec. 28: Marlins add veteran outfielder<\/h2>\n
Third base market creating intrigue<\/h2>\n
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Rangers eyeing Nicholas Castellanos<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 26: Mets, Pirates still talking Starling Marte trade<\/h2>\n
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Do White Sox have Yasiel Puig in their sights?<\/h2>\n
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Reds in talks with Shogo Akiyama<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 24: White Sox pursuing free-agent slugger<\/h2>\n
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Diamondbacks sign Kole Calhoun<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 22: Rebuilding Tigers make two additions<\/h2>\n
Dec. 21: Executive thinks Mookie Betts and Francisco Lindor will be traded<\/h2>\n
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Ian Kinsler to retire<\/h2>\n
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Astros will reportedly re-sign Martin Maldonado<\/h2>\n
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Cubs sign Ryan Tepera to one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Dec. 19: Nolan Arenado on Rangers radar<\/h2>\n
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Reds eyeing Francisco Lindor<\/h2>\n
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Royals add ex-Phillies slugger Maikel Franco on one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Angels sign Julio Teheran to help struggling rotation<\/h2>\n
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White Sox agree to one-year deal with Gio Gonzalez<\/h2>\n
Brewers fill need at first base with Justin Smoak<\/h2>\n
Dec. 18: Cubs, Nicholas Castellanos reunion unlikely<\/h2>\n
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Eric Sogard returns to Brewers on one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Matt Kemp agrees to minor-league deal with Marlins<\/h2>\n
Dec: 17. Dodgers, Red Sox talking Mookie Betts trade<\/h2>\n
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Brewers sign Ryon Healy to one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Cardinals sign Korean pitcher Kwang-hyun Kim<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 16: Wade Miley goes to the Reds for $15M over two years<\/h2>\n
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2021: $8M
2022: $10M club option ($1M buyout)<\/p>\nTwins sign Sergio Romo to one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Astros bring back reliever Joe Smith on two-year deal<\/h2>\n
Brewers sign Avisail Garcia to two-year deal<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 14: Blue Jays looking to sign Hyun-Jin Ryu<\/h2>\n
Corey Kluber drawing interest on trade market<\/h2>\n
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Padres checking on top tier pitchers<\/h2>\n
Marlins among teams to meet with Yasiel Puig<\/h2>\n
Dec. 13: Cubs bring back Morrow on minors deal<\/h2>\n
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Brewers add veteran Brett Anderson to rotation<\/h2>\n
Rays sign Japanese slugger Tsutsugo<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 12: Red Sox add left-hander Martin Perez<\/h2>\n
Red Sox also sign infielder Jose Peraza<\/h2>\n
Yankees bring back Brett Gardner on one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Mets sign Rick Porcello to one-year deal<\/h2>\n
Dec. 10: Angels have ‘expressed interest’ in Corey Kluber<\/h2>\n
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Dodgers have deal with Blake Treinen<\/h2>\n
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Blue Jays agree to deal with Tanner Roark<\/h2>\n
Brewers sign reliever Josh Lindbloom<\/h2>\n
Rockies re-sign reliever Scott Oberg<\/h2>\n
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Mets nearing deal with Michael Wacha<\/h2>\n
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Dodgers, Indians in \u2018serious\u2019 trade talks for Lindor<\/h2>\n
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Dodgers don\u2019t like their chances for Anthony Rendon<\/h2>\n
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Dec. 11: Dodgers turn attention to Madison Bumgarner<\/h2>\n
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White Sox to acquire Nomar Mazara from Rangers<\/h2>\n
Astros ‘contemplating’ Carlos Correa trade, Gerrit Cole offer<\/h2>\n
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Adam Jones picks Japan<\/h2>\n
Twin announce Pineda and Alex Avila signings<\/h2>\n
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David Price being targeted by multiple teams<\/h2>\n
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Giants add two veterans to roster<\/h2>\n
![\"Gerrit](\"https:\/\/s.yimg.com\/ny\/api\/res\/1.2\/jnrE_Lul9DxqcIfYENT_aQ--~A\/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjtzbT0xO3c9ODAw\/https:\/\/media-mbst-pub-ue1.s3.amazonaws.com\/creatr-images\/2019-12\/e9fa5ac0-1adb-11ea-993f-873cad40dcd7\")