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MLB News

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

Wednesday, January 21

Padres Eye Backup Catcher Upgrade Amidst Luis Campusano's Uncertain Future

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The San Diego Padres are actively seeking to upgrade their backup catcher position, raising questions about Luis Campusano's future. Currently the sole option behind Freddy Fermin, Campusano faces "little confidence" from the team due to his defensive shortcomings and a disappointing 0-21 performance in 2025, failing to translate his minor league hitting. With no minor league options left, he must either make the 2026 big league roster or be designated for assignment. Once a top prospect, Campusano's tenure with the Padres is nearing a critical juncture, though the possibility of a late bloom remains.

Dodgers Designate Michael Siani for Assignment to Make Room for Kyle Tucker

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The Los Angeles Dodgers designated outfielder Michael Siani for assignment to create a 40-man roster spot for new signee Kyle Tucker. Siani, a defense-first center fielder, was recently claimed off waivers from the Braves. He has played parts of four MLB seasons with the Cardinals and Reds, posting a career .221/.277/.270 slash line (58 wRC+) in 160 games. In 2025, he hit .209/.307/.329 in Triple-A and had limited MLB action. With no minor league options remaining, Siani's future is uncertain, potentially involving another waiver claim, trade, or outright assignment.

Mets Sign Veteran Reliever Luis Garcia to One-Year, $1.75M Deal

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The New York Mets have signed veteran right-handed reliever Luis Garcia to a one-year, $1.75 million contract, with $1.25 million in incentives, pending a physical. The 38-year-old, who turns 39 this month, split the 2025 season across the Dodgers, Nationals, and Angels, posting a 3.42 ERA and 1.46 WHIP with 48 strikeouts in 55.1 innings. Garcia recorded a career-best 0.3 HR/9 rate and showcased an average fastball velocity of 96.9 mph (87th percentile) and a 49.7% ground ball rate (82nd percentile). He is the latest addition to a reconstructed Mets bullpen, which also includes Devin Williams and Luke Weaver.

Teoscar Hernández Shifts to Left Field for Dodgers Following Kyle Tucker Signing

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Teoscar Hernández will transition from right field to left field for the Los Angeles Dodgers, a move confirmed by manager Dave Roberts. This position change is to accommodate the team's new All-Star signee, Kyle Tucker, who will now play right field. Roberts indicated that Hernández is "excited" about playing in left field, allowing both powerful outfielders to be integrated into the Dodgers' lineup and optimize the team's defensive alignment. The shift ensures the Dodgers can maximize their offensive and defensive capabilities with their recent high-profile acquisitions.

Yadier Molina Returns to Cardinals as Special Assistant to Front Office

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Legendary catcher Yadier Molina is rejoining the St. Louis Cardinals as a special assistant to President of Baseball Operations Chaim Bloom, returning after a three-season absence since retiring in 2022. In his new role, Molina will provide insights on the catching program, game strategy, and day-to-day operations, advising staff and nurturing a championship mindset in players. The 10-time All-Star, 9-time Gold Glover, and two-time World Series champion previously managed in Puerto Rico and Venezuela, earning Manager of the Year honors last season. This move is seen as a potential precursor to an eventual role on the Cardinals' coaching staff.

Twins Acquire Infielder Tristan Gray from Red Sox in Trade

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The Minnesota Twins acquired infielder Tristan Gray from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for minor league catcher Nate Baez. Gray's acquisition led to the designation of infielder Vidal Bruján. Gray, who had a brief Red Sox tenure, has appeared in 47 MLB games since 2023, posting a .207/.264/.369 slash line. Last season, he hit .231 in 30 games, bringing versatility to the Twins' roster.

Yankees Prospect Spencer Jones Misses Baseball America's Top 100 List

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Yankees prospect Spencer Jones did not make Baseball America's 2026 top-100 prospect list, despite a powerful 2025 season where he slashed .274/.362/.571 with 35 homers, 80 RBI, and 29 stolen bases across Triple-A and Double-A. The towering outfielder is considered a "divisive prospect" due to concerns about his swing's holes and high strikeout rate, though some project Aaron Judge-like power. With Cody Bellinger re-signing, Jones is likely to begin 2026 in the minors to further refine his game, potentially making him trade bait for a starting pitcher. MLB.com ranks him at No. 99, contrasting Baseball America's omission.

Mets Agree to One-Year Deal with Veteran Reliever Luis García

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The New York Mets have agreed to terms on a one-year contract with veteran right-handed reliever Luis García, pending a physical. García, who will turn 39 later this month, remained effective last season, posting a 3.42 ERA in 58 games split across three teams. A 13-year veteran, he averaged 96.9 mph with his signature sinker and will join the Mets' bullpen to bolster their relief depth alongside Devin Williams and Luke Weaver.

Mets Prospect Nolan McLean Ranks No. 8 on Baseball America's Top 100 List

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New York Mets right-hander Nolan McLean, 24, leads six Mets prospects on Baseball America's top 100 list, securing the No. 8 spot. Following an impressive 2025 big-league cameo where he posted a 2.06 ERA in eight starts with 57 strikeouts in 48 innings and a 5-1 record, McLean is poised for his first full season. The 2023 third-round pick showcased a deep arsenal and high-90s fastball, making his spot in the 2026 rotation appear secure.

Zack Wheeler Behind Schedule for Spring Training Due to Shoulder

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Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler (shoulder) will start spring training behind other starters, though not significantly. He underwent surgery in mid-August for a blood clot near his right shoulder, followed by venous thoracic outlet syndrome surgery in late September. Wheeler began a throwing program in early December and long-tossed from 90 feet last week. While an Opening Day return isn't ruled out, an IL stint is likely. Venous TOS is considered the less severe of the two TOS diagnoses, but his pre-surgery form isn't guaranteed.

Mariners' Logan Evans Shows Extreme Pitching Splits in Rookie Season

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Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Evans displayed extreme splits in his rookie season, allowing a .529 OPS the first time through a lineup (5th best in MLB) but a 1.022 OPS the second time (worst). This .493 difference was the largest in 2025. Despite an overall 5.05 FIP in 15 starts, his deep six-pitch repertoire initially limited quality contact. However, all pitches worsened significantly after the lineup turn. Evans enters Spring Training 2026 as depth, expected to pitch in MLB, with the Mariners likely strategizing to extend his effectiveness deeper into games.

Andrew Painter Vies for Phillies Opening Day Rotation Spot

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The Philadelphia Phillies hope Andrew Painter will secure a spot in their Opening Day rotation, especially with two potential openings if Zack Wheeler (shoulder) isn't ready. Painter, along with Taijuan Walker, is a favorite for these spots. In his first full season back from Tommy John surgery in 2025, he posted a 5.26 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, and 123:47 K:BB over 118 innings across 26 starts in Single-A and Triple-A. Despite the ERA, his stuff remained intact, and reaching nearly 120 innings was encouraging. Painter was added to the 40-man roster and has a good chance to make the big club with a strong spring.

Jasson Domínguez's Yankees Role Uncertain After Bellinger Re-Signing

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Jasson Domínguez's path to an expanded role with the New York Yankees is now uncertain following Cody Bellinger's re-signing. The 22-year-old outfielder showed offensive promise in 2025 with a 116 wRC+ vs. righties, but struggled against lefties (63 wRC+) and defensively (-7 DRS, -10 OAA). Despite a .257/.331/.388 line, 10 HR, and 23 SB in 429 plate appearances, his development hinges on improving against southpaws and his glove work. While his ceiling projects to 20 HR, 30 SB, and a 110 wRC+, he'll need to refine his game, including walk and strikeout rates, to secure consistent big-league playing time.

Red Sox Finalize $130M, 5-Year Deal with LHP Ranger Suárez

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The Boston Red Sox have finalized a $130 million, five-year contract with veteran left-hander Ranger Suárez. Suárez, a former Phillies standout, brings a 3.59 ERA over 104 starts since 2022 and a 1.48 ERA in 11 postseason appearances. Known for his command and six-pitch arsenal, he averaged 91.3 mph with his fastball and offers durability, averaging six innings per start in 2025. His addition strengthens the Red Sox's rotation, bolstering their pitching staff with a high ground-ball rate specialist.

Harry Ford Features on Baseball America's Top 100 Prospect List

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Catcher Harry Ford has been named to Baseball America's Top 100 prospect list, ranking 99th. Ford, acquired for Jose A. Ferrer, is noted for his exciting offensive potential and elite approach, with his power trending upwards in 2025. While questions remain about his defense, his athleticism and ability to get on base are highlighted. He is expected to get his shot in MLB this year.

Josh Sborz Returning to Texas on Minor League Deal

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Pitcher Josh Sborz is returning to the Texas Rangers organization on a minor league deal that includes an invitation to Spring Training. The Rangers are looking to add depth to their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Mets Considering Framber Valdez for Rotation Addition

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The New York Mets are reportedly considering adding starting pitcher Framber Valdez to their rotation. Valdez, who is attached to a qualifying offer, could be an option for a three- or four-year deal around $30 million annually. He has been a workhorse over the last four seasons, posting a 3.21 ERA and 1.15 WHIP across 767.2 innings, offering the Mets a needed top-of-the-rotation starter.

Wil Myers Returns to Padres Organization in Coaching Role

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Wil Myers has returned to the San Diego Padres organization, where he will serve in a coaching role at the lower levels. Myers, along with former skipper Bud Black, brings valuable experience and perspective to help the Padres pursue their goal of winning a World Series.

Red Sox Consider Lefty Reliever Tim Mayza

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The Boston Red Sox are reportedly interested in adding left-handed reliever Tim Mayza. Mayza, recently with the Philadelphia Phillies, has a history of inducing ground balls and showed improved performance in 2025 after recovering from a shoulder injury, though he was limited to 16 2/3 innings. His experience and potential low-risk contract make him a candidate for the Red Sox bullpen.

Orioles Confident in Colton Cowser as Center Field Plan A

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The Baltimore Orioles appear to be placing their confidence in Colton Cowser as their starting center fielder for 2026. Despite battling injuries and inconsistency in 2025, Cowser showed promise in the latter part of the season. The Orioles have not pursued major additions at the position, suggesting a belief in Cowser's potential to develop and hold the role, with Enrique Bradfield Jr. as a potential future option.