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MLB News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Tuesday, January 27

Mariners Acquire Catcher Jhonny Pereda from Twins for Depth

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The Seattle Mariners have acquired catcher Jhonny Pereda from the Minnesota Twins to bolster their 40-man roster depth. Pereda, 30 in April, debuted in MLB in 2024 with the Marlins, showcasing strong defensive skills by throwing out 4-of-8 base stealers. While not a power hitter, he exhibits solid bat-to-ball skills (15.1% K-rate) and an 11.8% walk rate. With one minor league option left, Pereda is expected to start for Triple-A Tacoma and serve as the primary call-up option.

Mariners Designate RHP Jackson Kowar for Assignment

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The Seattle Mariners have designated right-handed pitcher Jackson Kowar for assignment to clear a 40-man roster spot for catcher Jhonny Pereda. Kowar, who returned in May 2025 after Tommy John surgery in March 2024, pitched 17 low-leverage innings for the Mariners. Despite glimpses of his potential, his lack of minor league options and a 21.1% strikeout rate contributed to the decision. The Mariners may still attempt to outright him to retain him in the organization.

Jake Cronenworth's Versatility Key for Padres, Eyes Power Resurgence

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San Diego Padres second baseman Jake Cronenworth's versatility across the infield will be crucial for the 2026 season. Entering his seventh year, Cronenworth, known for his .991 career fielding percentage, may play more first base due to roster uncertainty. After a strong 2021 (.266 AVG, 21 HR, 71 RBI), he struggled in 2025, hitting .246 with 11 HR and 59 RBI in 135 games following fractured ribs, showing a dip in left-side power. He aims to regain his offensive form, taking reps at both first and second base in Spring Training.

Roki Sasaki Skips WBC, Dodgers Eye Starter Role with New Pitch Development

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Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki, 24, will skip the WBC to focus on Spring Training, where manager Dave Roberts plans to give him "every chance to be the fifth or sixth starter." After a challenging rookie season and a shoulder impingement, Sasaki excelled as a reliever in the 2025 postseason with 3 saves and a 0.84 ERA. Roberts stresses the need for Sasaki to develop a third pitch, such as a slider or curveball, to complement his 100-mph fastball and forkball for sustained success as a starter, highlighting a mental hurdle for the naturally gifted Japanese pitcher.

Cubs' Ian Happ Dubbed 'Mr. Consistent' Ahead of Free Agency

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Cubs outfielder Ian Happ has earned the moniker 'Mr. Consistent' for his remarkably steady performance from 2022-2025. He's played 619 games since 2022, with only one 9-game IL stint in May 2025. Over this period, his OPS+ ranged from 117-120 and bWAR from 3.5-4.3, making him one of the most consistent regulars in MLB. Happ, tied for 37th in OPS+ and 32nd in bWAR among qualified players since 2022, enters his final contract year in 2026 as a pending free agent, with his future in Chicago uncertain without an extension.

José Ramírez Signs Career-Long Extension with Cleveland Guardians Through 2032

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Seven-time All-Star José Ramírez has inked a significant seven-year, $175 million extension with the Cleveland Guardians, ensuring he remains with the team through his age-39 season in 2032. This third long-term commitment solidifies his legacy to potentially play his entire career in Cleveland. Since 2016, Ramírez ranks among MLB's top position players by fWAR and is projected to join the 300 HR/300 SB club in 2026. The deal underscores the Guardians' reliance on their superstar, especially after their offense ranked 28th in wRC+ last season.

Free Agent Michael Kopech Remains High-Upside 'Project' Arm for Bullpen

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Free agent Michael Kopech, a former top prospect, is seen as a high-upside "project pitcher" despite a history of injuries and command issues. After a meniscus tear ended his 2025 season with the Dodgers, Kopech, who transitioned to relief in 2024-2025, has demonstrated effectiveness with an 81% fastball usage (98 mph average) and a 30.1% strikeout rate. He's also developing a "nasty" 91.1 mph cutter. The Tigers are reportedly considering Kopech as a low-cost, high-reward bullpen option, potentially signing him for $5-6 million with a 2027 team option.

Willi Castro Joins Puerto Rico for First World Baseball Classic Appearance

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Willi Castro, a 29-year-old utility player, has been announced as the newest member of Team Puerto Rico's World Baseball Classic roster, marking his first appearance in the tournament. Castro, who made the 2024 Midsummer Classic as a Twin, recently signed a two-year contract with Colorado. His 2025 season, split between the Twins and Cubs, saw him bat .226 with 11 home runs and a .679 OPS in 120 games, playing every position except catcher and first base.

Yankees Claim RHP Dom Hamel Off Waivers, Designate Luciano

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The New York Yankees have claimed right-handed pitcher Dom Hamel off waivers from the Texas Rangers, clearing a 40-man roster spot by designating Marco Luciano for assignment. Hamel, 26, a 2021 Mets third-round pick, made his only MLB appearance in September 2025. Last season in Triple-A Syracuse, he recorded a 5.32 ERA and 1.33 WHIP over 67.2 innings, striking out over a batter per inning. This is Hamel's fourth waiver claim since September 2025, as the Yankees reportedly aim to sneak him through waivers.

Blue Jays Outfielder Jonatan Clase Gets Extra Option Year, Faces Roster Battle

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Toronto Blue Jays switch-hitting outfielder Jonatan Clase, 23, has been granted an additional option year by MLB, which may secure his roster spot but also makes a major league role less likely this season. Acquired from the Mariners, Clase played 60 MLB games in 2024, hitting .224/.294/.311 with 3 HR and 6 SB. Last season in Triple-A, he posted a .255/.335/.403 line with 7 HR and 30 SB. Known for his speed and good defense, Clase faces a challenge to find regular MLB at-bats amidst the Blue Jays' outfield depth.

Braves Prospect Didier Fuentes Cracks ESPN Top 100 List at #88

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Atlanta Braves prospect Didier Fuentes has been included in ESPN's Top 100 Prospect list for 2026, ranking at #88. Described as a "Fastball-dominant starter who probably has enough off-speed to be a third/fourth starter," Fuentes is praised for his fastball velocity and movement. While his secondary pitches are considered average (45- or 50-grade), his release profile is compared to Bryan Woo and his stuff to Joe Ryan, indicating potential as a standout starter.

Tucker Barnhart's Unique Career: From Cubs Catcher to Position Player Pitcher

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Tucker Barnhart, who signed a two-year, $6.5 million deal with the Cubs before the 2023 season, was released after batting .202/.285/.257. During his 43 games with the Cubs, he made four appearances as a position player pitcher, including scoreless innings against the Mets and Red Sox, and allowing an RBI single against the Mets. After playing 31 games for the Diamondbacks in 2024 and 8 for the Rangers in 2025, Barnhart has compiled a career 7.88 ERA and 2.375 WHIP in eight total innings pitched.

Jose Franco Ranks #11 in Reds System, Nearing MLB Debut

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Cincinnati Reds prospect Jose Franco, in the farm system since 2019, has climbed to #11 in the Community Prospect Rankings after overcoming Tommy John surgery in 2023. On the 40-man roster, Franco posted a 3.11 ERA and 1.26 WHIP across 110.0 IP in AA and AAA last year, featuring a fastball flirting with 100 mph. While his secondary pitches are developing, his dominant heater positions him on the cusp of the big leagues as a solid reliever, with potential for a rotation spot.

Cubs Sign Kyle Tucker in Major Offseason Move

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The Chicago Cubs have reportedly signed Kyle Tucker this winter, a move described as 'baseball's rich getting richer.' This acquisition signifies a significant offseason investment by the Cubs, bolstering their roster with a key player. The signing is expected to impact the team's competitive standing and financial outlook for the upcoming season, reflecting a trend of top talent joining high-spending franchises.

Top 3 Free Agent Fits Explored for Giants RHP Justin Verlander

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Speculation is emerging regarding Justin Verlander's potential departure from the San Francisco Giants. Should the veteran right-hander ultimately leave the team, an analysis identifies three specific MLB free agent destinations as the best possible fits for his next career move. This report details the top landing spots for Verlander if he enters the free agent market.

Royals Sign Former All-Star Aaron Sanchez to Minor League Deal

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The Kansas City Royals have signed veteran right-handed pitcher Aaron Sanchez to a minor league deal. Sanchez, an All-Star in 2016, hasn't pitched in MLB since 2022 but recently won Pitcher of the Year in the Dominican Winter League with a 1.55 ERA. Despite a history of injuries, including blister issues and a torn shoulder capsule, Sanchez showed positive signs with the Giants in 2021. He will receive $1.35 million if he makes the big league roster, with opt-out clauses on April 15 and May 15.

Evan Carter's 2025 Season Marred by Injuries, Durability Concerns Persist

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Evan Carter's 2025 season with the Texas Rangers was limited to just 63 games due to multiple injured list stints, including a quad strain and a season-ending broken wrist. Despite the setbacks, he posted a .247/.336/.392 slash line with 14 stolen bases in 16 attempts and excellent defense, accumulating 1.9 bWAR in 220 plate appearances. However, durability concerns, stemming from career-long back issues and new injuries, along with struggles against left-handed pitching, remain key questions for the 23-year-old outfielder.

Josh Naylor's Fearless Play Style Makes Him Mariners Fan Favorite

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Josh Naylor has become an instant fan favorite for the Seattle Mariners due to his fearless and unique play style. Known for his adjustable swing, he can effectively hit difficult pitches, including 99 mph fastballs high and away. Despite a 3rd percentile sprint speed, Naylor stole 30 bases this year, going 19-for-19 with Seattle, a testament to his elite baseball IQ. His daring baserunning, notably in ALDS Game 5, and aggressive defensive positioning further highlight his impactful approach to the game.

Giants Sign Veteran Outfielder Harrison Bader to Two-Year, $20.5M Deal

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The San Francisco Giants officially announced the signing of veteran outfielder Harrison Bader to a two-year, $20.5 million deal on January 27, 2026. Bader's acquisition is seen as a strategic move to add depth and experience to the Giants' outfield. He is expected to significantly improve the team's defensive capabilities and has shown a tendency to hit well in NL West parks, making him a key addition for the upcoming seasons.

Orioles Frontrunner to Sign Framber Valdez, Impacting Rotation Battle

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The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly the frontrunner to sign 32-year-old lefty Framber Valdez, formerly of the Houston Astros. His acquisition would significantly bolster the Orioles' rotation, likely placing him among the top three starters alongside Kyle Bradish and Trevor Rogers. This move is expected to intensify the competition for the fifth rotation spot, with Dean Kremer, Zach Eflin, Cade Povich, and Tyler Wells vying for the role.