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MLB News

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

Tuesday, December 30, 2025

Kirby Yates Signs One-Year Deal with Los Angeles Angels

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Veteran right-hander Kirby Yates has officially signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Angels. The 39-year-old made 50 regular-season appearances for the Dodgers in 2025, posting a 5.23 ERA with a 52:17 K:BB ratio over 41.1 innings. Despite his high ERA, Yates continues to demonstrate bat-missing ability and could be in contention for a closing role as part of the Angels' unsettled bullpen, offering a potential boost to their relief corps.

Anthony Rendon's Angels Tenure Ends with Contract Buyout; Retirement Expected

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Anthony Rendon and the Los Angeles Angels have agreed to restructure the remainder of his contract, officially ending his tenure with a buyout. Rendon, 35, had one year and $38 million remaining on his seven-year, $245 million deal, which will be deferred. Recovering from hip surgery, Rendon is expected to retire once the buyout is official. He never played more than 58 games in five seasons with the Angels after signing before the 2020 season, slashing .242/.348/.369 and failing to meet expectations.

Alex Bregman Named One of MLB's Top 10 Remaining Free Agents

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Alex Bregman is recognized among the top 10 remaining MLB free agents as the offseason slowly concludes. He represents a significant talent still on the market, with various teams potentially vying for his services as the league approaches its next phase. The article emphasizes that plenty of top talent, including Bregman, is still available as the slow offseason inches toward its end.

Kyle Tucker Featured Among MLB's Top 10 Remaining Free Agents

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Kyle Tucker is highlighted as one of the top 10 remaining MLB free agents as the offseason progresses. With the offseason nearing its conclusion, he remains a significant talent available on the market, drawing attention for potential landing spots. The article notes that plenty of top talent, including Tucker, is still on the market as the slow offseason inches toward its end.

Monday, December 29, 2025

Marlins Acquire Esteury Ruiz, 2023 AL Stolen Base Leader

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The Miami Marlins acquired 26-year-old outfielder Esteury Ruiz from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for minor league right-hander Adriano Marrero. Ruiz, a renowned speedster, led the AL with 67 stolen bases for the Athletics in 2023 and 85 in 2022. For the Dodgers, he hit .190 with four stolen bases in 19 appearances, primarily as a defensive replacement and pinch-runner. The Marlins designated infielder Eric Wagaman for assignment to clear a 40-man roster spot. Ruiz, who has one Minor League option and is arbitration eligible after 2026, was not in the Dodgers' 2026 outfield plans and could replace Dane Myers.

Zach Eflin to Throw Bullpen Jan. 6 After Back Surgery

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Zach Eflin (back) is slated to throw a bullpen session on Jan. 6, marking his first time off a mound since undergoing lumbar microdiscectomy surgery in August. The Orioles pitcher, who recently re-signed with the team, has a goal to be ready for Opening Day. Eflin has a history of back issues but reported immediate relief post-operation. His 2025 season was injury-shortened, where he posted a 5.93 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, and 50:13 K:BB across 71.1 innings for Baltimore.

Andrew Heaney Retires After 12 MLB Seasons, Citing Family Focus

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Veteran left-hander Andrew Heaney, 34, has officially announced his retirement after 12 major league seasons, stating he's ready to focus on family. Heaney concludes his career with a 56-72 record and a 4.57 ERA over 208 starts and 22 relief appearances for six teams, including the Dodgers, Angels, and Rangers. He notably won Game 4 of the 2023 World Series with Texas, allowing one run over five innings. In his final season, he was 5-10 with a 5.52 ERA across 23 starts and four relief appearances, making a late-season appearance for the Dodgers after being released by Pittsburgh.

Alex Bregman Update Included in Latest MLB Hot Stove Rumors

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Alex Bregman is featured in the latest MLB hot stove rumors released on Monday, December 29th. The comprehensive report includes an update on Bregman alongside other significant league discussions. These rumors also detail the Orioles' efforts to strengthen their rotation, the evolving market for a prominent NPB star, and the Boston Red Sox's current wish list as teams navigate the ongoing trade and free agency period.

Sunday, December 28, 2025

Orioles Re-Sign Zach Eflin to $10M Deal Following Back Surgery

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Zach Eflin has agreed to a one-year, $10 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles, including a mutual option for 2027, reuniting him with the team. The right-hander spent the 2025 campaign with the Orioles, posting a 5.93 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with 50 strikeouts over 14 starts. Eflin underwent season-ending back surgery in August 2025 and aims to return to full health for 2026 spring training. The re-signing comes as Baltimore continues investing in its roster after a disappointing 2025 season.

Andrew Heaney Announces Retirement After 12 Major League Seasons

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Andrew Heaney, who recently concluded his 12th major-league season with a World Series championship with the Los Angeles Dodgers in November, announced his retirement from baseball via his personal X account on Sunday. The southpaw pitcher finishes his career with a 56-72 overall record, a 4.57 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 1,156 strikeouts over 230 appearances (208 starts). He played for the Marlins, Angels, Yankees, Dodgers, Rangers, and Pirates during his career.

Red Sox Acquire Willson Contreras; Expect Big Impact at Fenway

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Willson Contreras joins the Boston Red Sox from the Cardinals, expected to solidify first base. He boasts consistent offensive production since 2016 (OPS+ 106-138, 172 HRs). His 49% hard-hit rate, 13.9% barrel rate, and 95th percentile bat speed are poised to thrive at hitter-friendly Fenway Park (104 park factor), a significant upgrade from Busch. Contreras's increased pull-side air ball rate (19.8% in '25) is ideal for the Green Monster. He also offers strong defense at first base (+6 OAA) and valuable postseason experience.

Saturday, December 27, 2025

McNeil Says Goodbye to Mets After Trade to A's, Reflects on 'Incredible Run'

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Jeff McNeil officially ended his Mets tenure, taking to social media Saturday night to bid farewell following his trade to the A's. Drafted in 2013, McNeil debuted in 2018, establishing himself with a versatile glove and slap-hitting. He finished his Mets career with a .286 average, 193 doubles, 80 homers, 367 RBI, and a .779 OPS across 923 games. The 33-year-old earned two All-Star selections, a Silver Slugger, and a batting title. McNeil expressed gratitude to the organization, fans, and teammates, stating, 'New York will always be part of my story... it has been an incredible run.' He looks forward to his 'next chapter in green and gold.'

Hunter Harvey Agrees to 1-Year Deal with Chicago Cubs

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Free agent reliever Hunter Harvey has officially agreed to a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs, as sources confirmed to ESPN. This move strengthens the Cubs' bullpen, adding an experienced arm to their pitching staff for the upcoming 2026 season. The agreement was reported on December 27, 2025, indicating a swift decision in the offseason market. The deal secures Harvey's services for the Cubs, impacting their roster construction as they prepare for the next campaign.

Orioles, Astros Exit Trade Talks for Marlins RHP Edward Cabrera

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The trade market for Marlins RHP Edward Cabrera has reportedly shrunk, with the Orioles and Astros withdrawing from discussions. Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald indicates the Marlins are not looking to 'sell short' on the 27-year-old starter. Cabrera posted a career-best 3.53 ERA, 1.228 WHIP, 150 strikeouts, and 48 walks across 137.2 innings in 26 starts during the 2025 season. He remains under team control for three additional seasons, a key factor that could still attract interest from other clubs, including the Mets, who are actively seeking starting pitching.

Houston Astros Consider Zack Littell Among Top Free Agent Pitching Options

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Following their first playoff miss since 2016, the Houston Astros are reportedly considering Zack Littell as a potential MLB free agent signing. The team is urged to act swiftly to strengthen their roster, with Littell emerging as a candidate to help the Astros rebound next season. His addition is seen as part of the necessary moves to address the team's needs after a disappointing performance, aiming for a stronger comeback.

Astros Eye Harrison Bader as Key Free Agent Target for Roster Boost

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The Houston Astros, after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016, are actively seeking to strengthen their roster. Harrison Bader has been identified as a prominent MLB free agent the team should consider signing. Houston is urged to add Bader to improve their outlook for the upcoming season, as part of a strategic move to rebound from a disappointing year. The need for immediate action is highlighted, with Bader being a significant name among potential additions.

Reds Sign Former No. 4 Overall Pick JJ Bleday to One-Year Contract

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Outfielder JJ Bleday has officially reached an agreement on a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Reds. This signing brings the former No. 4 overall draft pick to the Reds after he spent the past three seasons playing for the Athletics. The deal secures Bleday's services for the upcoming season, providing the Reds with an experienced outfielder. The move is part of the team's ongoing efforts to bolster their roster through the offseason, adding depth to their lineup.

Nolan McLean's Unprecedented Debut Season Features Elite Ground-Ball & Strikeout Rates

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Mets pitcher Nolan McLean showcased an unprecedented debut season, logging impressive numbers across 48 Major League innings. He became the 38th starter in the pitch-tracking era (since 2008) to achieve a minimum of 100 batted balls with a ground-ball rate of at least 60.2%, coupled with a 30.3% strikeout rate. This '30-60' combination was nearly unmatched, surpassing even Giants ace Logan Webb's 2021 performance. McLean's success is attributed to his sinker, which had an 80% ground-ball rate, and his curveball, boasting a 62.5% grounder rate and a 50% whiff rate, leading to 19 strikeouts on 27 at-bats ending with the pitch.

Alex Bregman Drawing Interest from Cubs, Two Other Teams in Hot Stove

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Third baseman Alex Bregman is reportedly a sought-after player on the MLB Hot Stove market. The Chicago Cubs are among at least three teams actively pursuing the veteran infielder. This news comes as teams look to strengthen their rosters during the offseason, with Bregman emerging as a key target. Further details regarding the other interested teams or potential contract terms were not specified in the latest update, indicating a developing situation for the prominent slugger.

Friday, December 26, 2025

JJ Bleday Joins Cincinnati Reds on Free-Agent Contract

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Outfielder JJ Bleday, 28, has reportedly agreed to a free-agent contract with the Cincinnati Reds, ending his three-year tenure with the Athletics. Bleday, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, was DFA’d by the Athletics in November. During his time with Oakland from 2023-2025, he hit 44 home runs with a .723 OPS. He posted a .212/.294/.404 slash line with 14 homers and a .698 OPS in 2025. This move provides Bleday a fresh start in Cincinnati.