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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Nick Pivetta, who previously pitched in Boston before joining the San Diego Padres, was highlighted for his strong performance as the best pitcher in the Padres' starting rotation in 2026. His success is now being used as a benchmark, with fans hoping potential free agent target Lucas Giolito could achieve similar results under the guidance of Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla.
Lucas Giolito is a potential free agent target for the San Diego Padres, with fans overwhelmingly preferring him over Nick Martinez and Justin Verlander in a recent survey. At 31, Giolito is the youngest of the options and spent last year with the Boston Red Sox after missing 2024 due to elbow surgery. There's speculation he could replicate Nick Pivetta's success under Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla, making him an appealing option for a team looking to bolster its rotation amidst financial constraints.
Veteran closer Craig Kimbrel has signed a minor league deal with the New York Mets, including an invite to Spring Training. This move comes after initial reports linked him to the Houston Astros. Kimbrel, who will attempt to play his 17th big league season, had a short-lived reunion with the Braves last season before spending the rest of the year with the Astros, posting a 2.25 ERA across 12 innings.
Recently DFA'd infielder Samad Taylor has been signed by the San Diego Padres to a minor league contract. The deal includes an invitation to Spring Training, offering Taylor an opportunity to compete for a spot on the MLB roster.
Yu Darvish is contemplating retirement and leaning towards voiding the remaining three years and $43 million on his contract with the San Diego Padres. This consideration follows UCL repair surgery, which will sideline him for most, if not all, of the 2026 season. While initial reports suggested his retirement was final, Darvish and his agent refuted these as premature, stating no formal decision has been made. He made 15 starts last season and is focused on rehab, with retirement an option if he cannot return to throwing.
Superstar third baseman José Ramírez has signed a new seven-year, $175 million contract extension with the Cleveland Guardians, securing his presence with the team through 2032. The deal includes an additional $106 million to his current contract and involves some deferrals. This long-term commitment solidifies Ramírez as a cornerstone for the Guardians for the foreseeable future.
Ryne Nelson is not taking his pitching role for granted in 2026, emphasizing his commitment to hard work. He stated that he feels the same coming into camp this year as last, believing that comfort can lead to complacency. Nelson is dedicated to being the best version of himself, ensuring his role will be earned through effort.
The Red Sox acquired lefty Tyler Samaniego from the Pirates in a trade. Protected from the Rule 5 draft, Samaniego boasts a 98 MPH fastball and notable extension. Despite not pitching above Double-A and battling control issues, he has a strong K/9 rate (8.84 in 2022) and low HR rate (9 since 2021). As one of few lefties on the 40-man, he could make 20-30 MLB appearances in 2026 if he performs well in Triple-A, potentially emerging as a key bullpen arm.
Shohei Ohtani accepted his second consecutive NL MVP and third consecutive MVP award in person at the New York Baseball Writers’ Awards Gala. He delivered his acceptance speech in English, incorporating a comedic twist. Ohtani expressed gratitude to the writers and the Dodgers organization for believing in him and embracing his vision.
Eugenio Suárez, considered the best available bat on the market, is a potential free agent target for the Yankees, despite not being widely linked to them. In 2025, he posted 49 HR, 118 RBI, and a .775 OPS over 159 games. While the Yankees have Ryan McMahon at third, Suárez offers significant power, with a 119 wRC+ since 2022. He has a strong health record and could potentially sign a shorter deal with a higher AAV, providing a substantial offensive upgrade and infield depth.
Chicago Cubs All-Star center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong returned to Harvard-Westlake's baseball field for alumni day. He was honored with his jersey number displayed on the outfield wall, celebrating his journey to the major leagues.
Detroit Tigers pitcher Jack Flaherty was honored at his alma mater, Harvard-Westlake's O'Malley Family Field, during alumni day. His jersey number was unveiled and now hangs on the outfield wall, recognizing his achievement of reaching the major leagues.
Veteran closer Craig Kimbrel, 37, has agreed to a minor league deal with the New York Mets, including an invite to MLB Spring Training, with a $2.5M base salary if he makes the team. Kimbrel, 5th all-time with 440 saves and a 2.58 career ERA, bounced between Triple-A and the majors last season (Rangers, Braves, Astros). He posted a 2.25 ERA with 17 strikeouts in 12 big league innings (13 with Astros). He will compete for a bullpen spot as the Mets overhaul their relief corps.
Yu Darvish (elbow) is reportedly leaning towards voiding his remaining 3-year, $43M contract with the San Diego Padres after undergoing UCL brace surgery in November, which sidelines him for the entire 2026 season. Despite earlier reports, Darvish and his agent confirmed he has not officially announced retirement. He stated he's focused on rehab and will decide on his future competition based on his recovery. The 39-year-old five-time All-Star played 13 seasons with a 3.65 ERA and 2,075 strikeouts.
All-Star third baseman José Ramírez, 33, has agreed to a seven-year, $175 million contract extension with the Cleveland Guardians, securing his tenure through 2032. The deal adds four years and $106 million to his existing contract, includes a no-trade clause and MVP bonuses. Ramírez, a 13-year Guardian, boasts 7 All-Star selections and 6 Silver Sluggers. Last season, he hit .283/.360/.503 with 30 HR, 85 RBI, and a career-high 44 SB, becoming the first Guardian with 250 HR and 250 SB.
Shortstop CJ Abrams is reportedly being shopped by the Washington Nationals as part of their ongoing roster adjustments. The Giants made a significant push to acquire Abrams, with a deal reportedly centered around top prospect Josuar González, but these efforts were ultimately unsuccessful. Abrams is being shopped alongside outfielder Jacob Young, indicating the Nationals' continued strategy of 'tearing it down.' The team is actively exploring options to reshape its roster, and Abrams's availability suggests a potential significant move. His future with the Nationals remains uncertain as trade discussions continue.
Outfielder Jacob Young is reportedly being shopped by the Washington Nationals as the team continues to explore roster changes. Multiple reports indicate the Nationals are looking to move Young, alongside shortstop CJ Abrams. While the Giants reportedly made a significant push for Abrams, no deal has materialized for either player yet. Young's availability suggests the Nationals are not done with their 'tearing it down' strategy, aiming to reshape their roster further. His potential departure would open up opportunities for other prospects or new acquisitions as the team evaluates its future direction. The situation remains fluid as the offseason progresses.
Right-handed reliever Seranthony Domínguez has officially signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Chicago White Sox. This move was announced as part of ongoing league transactions, securing Domínguez's services for the White Sox. The contract provides the team with an experienced arm for their bullpen, aiming to bolster their relief corps for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Domínguez, known for his high-velocity fastball and slider, will look to make a significant impact in his new role. This signing addresses a key area for the White Sox as they continue to shape their roster ahead of the new season, adding depth and a proven performer to their pitching staff. Fans will be eager to see how Domínguez integrates into the team's bullpen strategy and contributes to their overall performance.
Ben Rice is being considered as the New York Yankees' full-time leadoff hitter for 2026, following a breakout 2025 season where he posted a 133 wRC+. While he may still catch, he's seen as best utilized at first base to maximize offensive output. Rice's superior batted-ball data, including xBA, xSLG, exit velocity, and hard-hit rate, makes him a strong candidate. The strategy aims to leverage his power and contact skills, especially with Aaron Judge batting behind him, potentially leading to more pitches in the zone. He led off 21 times in 2025, and the team believes he can provide more runs.
Trent Grisham's role as the Yankees' leadoff hitter is being re-evaluated despite a strong 2025 season where he posted a 129 wRC+ and hit six leadoff home runs in 88 games. Concerns about potential regression after an outstanding contract year have led to discussions about other options for the No. 1 spot. While his 2025 performance was a 'marvel,' the team is considering alternatives, particularly Ben Rice, who showed promising batted-ball numbers. Grisham's ability to get on base and provide instant offense is noted, but the Yankees are weighing his future performance expectations.
