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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
The New York Yankees strengthened their bullpen on Wednesday by acquiring right-handed reliever Angel Chivilli in a trade with the Colorado Rockies. Chivilli joins the Yankees as they look to add depth and talent to their relief corps. This move provides the Yankees with an additional arm for their bullpen ahead of the upcoming season, aiming to enhance their pitching options.
Paul Goldschmidt is currently a subject of MLB's hot stove rumors, with reports indicating the New York Yankees are considering a reunion with the veteran slugger. This speculation is part of the latest buzz circulating in baseball regarding potential roster moves.
Following his recent trade to the New York Mets, Freddy Peralta has expressed his willingness to consider an extension to remain with the team. This development is a key part of the latest buzz from baseball's hot stove, indicating active discussions around the pitcher's future with his new club as the Mets address their roster needs.
Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter, 23, has set an ambitious goal to steal 30 bases in the upcoming 2026 season. Carter, who was 19-for-21 on stolen-base attempts in 131 career games and ranked in the 90th percentile for sprint speed in 2025, believes new first-base coach Travis Jankowski will aid his efforts. He's fully recovered from a fractured wrist that ended his 2025 season, stating he 'actually feel really good right now,' despite chronic back issues and being a major injury risk. Carter is unlikely to play much versus southpaws but holds breakout potential.
Trea Turner was among the shortstop options for the Dodgers between 2021 and the start of the 2025 season, before Mookie Betts transitioned to the position. Betts' defensive performance in 2025 was notable, leading all qualified shortstops in defensive runs saved.
Corey Seager was part of the Dodgers' shortstop options from 2021 until Mookie Betts took over the position in 2025. Betts' defensive success at shortstop in 2025 overshadowed his offensive decline, with his 17 defensive runs saved leading all qualified shortstops.
Mookie Betts, who excelled defensively as the Dodgers' primary shortstop in 2025, is now aiming to balance his offensive production with his defensive prowess. Despite a career-low offensive season last year, Betts is dedicating offseason work to improve at the plate. He will also coach at the NBA All-Star Celebrity game on Feb. 13.
Max Scherzer might delay signing with a team until after Opening Day, according to reports. He indicated after World Series Game 7 that he hadn't thrown his final pitch. Meanwhile, Carlos Correa will miss the World Baseball Classic due to insurance issues.
Carlos Correa will not participate in the upcoming World Baseball Classic due to insurance issues. This news comes as other players like Bo Bichette withdraw and Nolan Arenado joins Team Puerto Rico. Reports also indicate Max Scherzer might hold out until after Opening Day to sign.
Marco Luciano has been designated for assignment by the New York Yankees, marking the fourth team to do so this offseason. Previously claimed by the Pirates and Orioles, Luciano's career remains in limbo as teams hope to pass him through waivers for an outright assignment to AAA.
Brendan Donovan's potential departure looms over the St. Louis Cardinals' 2026 projections, with ZiPS and Fangraphs Depth Charts considering him their second most valuable player. Projections also highlight Masyn Winn's defense and Ivan Herrera's potential, while Jordan Walker and Lars Nootbaar show promise.
The Orioles are reportedly among the teams interested in free agent pitcher Zac Gallen, alongside the Cubs. Gallen struggled in 2025 with a 4.83 ERA but showed improvement in the second half. This interest could be a tactic to influence negotiations with Framber Valdez.
Framber Valdez remains one of the top remaining free agents as February approaches. The left-handed pitcher, known for consistent innings and suppressing home runs, is seeking a new contract. Other notable free agents include Zac Gallen and Lucas Giolito.
New York Yankees star Aaron Judge has been named the MLB The Show 26 cover athlete, a historic second appearance after his 2018 debut, joining Joe Mauer as the only players to achieve this. The three-time AL MVP, who hit 62 home runs in 2022 and is Team USA's WBC captain, will be featured in both his Yankees and Team USA uniforms. The game is scheduled for release on March 17.
Recently acquired outfielder Jake McCarthy made his Rockies Fest debut, expressing enthusiasm for playing at Coors Field, believing its large outfield and elevation suit his game. Traded to the Colorado Rockies just over two weeks ago, McCarthy is eager to make an impact offensively, defensively, and on the base paths, and is open to playing all three outfield positions. He also met manager Warren Schaeffer, describing him as a "go-getter." McCarthy focused on dynamic play, getting on base, and good defense during the offseason.
New Mets infielder Bo Bichette, recently signed to a three-year, $126 million deal, will not play for Team Brazil in the World Baseball Classic, choosing instead to focus on his transition to third base and his new club. Manager Carlos Mendoza is reportedly impressed with Bichette's early performance at the hot corner, noting his comfort and athleticism. The former Blue Jays shortstop, who hit .311 with 18 HR and 94 RBI last season, is prioritizing his acclimation to his new team and position.
San Diego Padres pitcher Yu Darvish, rehabbing from his third elbow surgery, is "leaning towards voiding" his contract but has not yet decided on retirement. Despite a premature report, Darvish and his agent clarified that discussions with the Padres are ongoing. The 39-year-old is focused on regaining normal elbow function, stating he will "start from scratch" to compete if he can throw again, otherwise he will retire. Darvish, who prefers not to take unearned money, will attend Spring Training to support the team, with a potential transition to a special assistant role.
The New York Mets have signed infielder Grae Kessinger to a minor league contract, including a spring training invitation. Kessinger, a former Astros second-round pick, played 48 MLB games in 2023-2024 before a brief stint with the Diamondbacks' Triple-A affiliate. The 28-year-old, known for his versatility across all four infield positions and a .335 minor league OBP, will now serve as veteran depth within the Mets' minor league system.
New Mets ace Freddy Peralta, acquired from the Brewers, is excited to join the team and embrace the New York market. While the Mets are exploring a long-term extension, Peralta stated he wants to settle in with his new teammates and the organization before discussing a new deal, as he has one year left before free agency. The two-time All-Star posted a 2.70 ERA with 204 strikeouts in 176.2 innings last season, marking his third consecutive year with 30+ starts. He remains undecided on participating in the WBC due to personal reasons.
Houston Astros star Carlos Correa will not participate in the World Baseball Classic, citing unresolved insurance issues. Due to his injury history, including a sprained ankle, back tightness, and a concussion last year, he was deemed uninsurable, risking his $31 million salary if injured. Astros owner Jim Crane requested he focus on the team after their injury-ridden 2025 season. Correa, who batted .290 with 6 HR and 21 RBI in 51 games last season, expressed disappointment but acknowledged the financial implications.
