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MLB News

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

Friday, December 26, 2025

Harper's 'Not Elite' Shirt Rekindles Dombrowski Dispute Over Elite Status

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Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper reignited his dispute with president Dave Dombrowski by posting a TikTok video wearing a "Not Elite" shirt. This follows Dombrowski's public comments questioning Harper's ability to post another elite season, stating his 2025 performance wasn't "elite" compared to his 2021 MVP year, despite being "very good." Harper had previously expressed being "hurt" by these remarks. Since his 2021 MVP season, Harper has hit .281/.374/.506 while battling injuries, with his .361 wOBA ranking 21st last season.

Cubs Content to Let Kyle Tucker Depart, Eye Internal Replacements

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The Chicago Cubs are reportedly content to let star outfielder Kyle Tucker depart in MLB free agency, despite his 2025 season where he posted an .841 OPS, hit 22 homers, and won a Silver Slugger. His exit is considered a 'foregone conclusion,' prompting the Cubs to strategize replacement options. The team is exploring internal candidates like 23-year-old Owen Caissie, who possesses enormous power, and top prospect Kevin Alcántara. Seiya Suzuki could also shift to right field as part of a strategy to replace Tucker's production in the aggregate.

Ricky Tiedemann Expected Fully Healthy for Blue Jays' Spring Training

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Toronto Blue Jays prospect Ricky Tiedemann (elbow) is expected to be fully healthy for Spring Training after missing the entire 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery in July 2024. Despite only 140 minor league innings since 2021, he was added to the 40-man roster. MLB.com's Keegan Matheson suggests an innings limit, with 'even sniffing 100 (innings) feels very unlikely' in 2026. GM Ross Atkins hopes he's a rotation factor but is open to a bulk or creative role.

Alex Bregman Considered as Cubs' Free Agency Target

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Boston Red Sox infielder Alex Bregman has been identified as a potential acquisition target for the Chicago Cubs. This consideration is part of the Cubs' strategic planning to address the possible departure of Kyle Tucker in MLB free agency. The franchise is exploring three specific moves, including pursuing Bregman, to strengthen their roster and counter any potential loss, ensuring continued competitiveness.

Tarik Skubal Emerges as Potential Cubs Trade Target

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Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal has been identified as a potential trade target for the Chicago Cubs. This consideration comes as part of the Cubs' strategic planning, exploring three possible moves to mitigate the impact should Kyle Tucker depart in MLB free agency. Skubal's inclusion suggests the Cubs are looking at significant acquisitions to bolster their roster in such a scenario.

Marlins' Sandy Alcantara Emerges in Latest MLB Hot Stove Rumors

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Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara is a prominent name circulating in the latest MLB hot stove rumors. With the Offseason Solstice approaching, discussions among teams and analysts are intensifying regarding potential trades and roster strategies. Alcantara's situation with the Marlins is a subject of ongoing speculation, as various reports and insights emerge concerning his future and the team's broader plans for the upcoming season.

Cardinals' Post-Contreras Trade Plans Stir MLB Hot Stove Discussions

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The St. Louis Cardinals' strategic plans following the Willson Contreras trade are a central topic in the latest MLB hot stove discussions. As the Offseason Solstice marks a key period for team evaluations and potential roster adjustments, speculation is high regarding the Cardinals' next moves. The focus remains on how the team will navigate the offseason and build for the future after the significant transaction involving Contreras, with ongoing analysis from league insiders.

Athletics Lock Up Tyler Soderstrom with $86M, 7-Year Contract

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Left fielder Tyler Soderstrom has agreed to an $86 million, seven-year contract with the Athletics, potentially rising to $131 million with bonus provisions. The 24-year-old, who completed his first full MLB season, batted .276 with 25 home runs and 93 RBIs. Drafted 26th overall in 2020, Soderstrom was on track for arbitration after 2026. This long-term deal secures his future with the team, which is planning a move to Las Vegas for 2028.

Thursday, December 25, 2025

A's Secure Tyler Soderstrom with Record 7-Year, $86M Extension

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Tyler Soderstrom, 24, has agreed to a seven-year, $86 million contract extension with the Athletics, marking the largest guarantee in franchise history. The deal includes an eighth-year club option for 2033 and escalators that could push its value to $131 million, securing him through at least 2033 and buying out at least three free-agent years. Soderstrom had a breakout 2025 season, slashing .276/.346/.474 with 25 home runs and 93 RBI, transitioning from first base to left field and becoming an AL Gold Glove finalist.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Marlins Sign Closer Pete Fairbanks to 1-Year, $13M Deal After Rays Decline Option

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Pete Fairbanks has signed a one-year, $13 million contract with the Miami Marlins, including a $1M signing bonus and $1M in incentives, after the Rays declined his $11M club option. Fairbanks, expected to be the Marlins' closer, recorded 90 saves for Tampa Bay from 2020-25, including 75 over the last three seasons. In 2025, he pitched a career-high 60.1 innings across 61 appearances with a 2.83 ERA and 27 saves in 32 chances, maintaining elite 97.3 mph fastball velocity. Despite past injury issues, he remained healthy last season, and his addition aims to boost a Marlins bullpen that ranked 22nd in ERA last year.

Mets Reportedly Sign Veteran Reliever Mike Baumann

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The Mets are reportedly signing veteran right-handed reliever Mike Baumann. The 30-year-old spent 2025 with NPB's Tokyo Yakult Swallows, posting a 4.20 ERA across 15 IP. His last MLB season was 2024, splitting time with four teams, recording a 5.55 ERA over 58.1 IP. Baumann's best MLB year was 2023 with Baltimore, where he went 10-1 with a 3.76 ERA in 64.2 IP. He made his MLB debut in 2021 after being drafted by the Orioles in 2017.

Yankees, Mets, Royals 'Check In' on Free-Agent LF Austin Hays

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Free-agent left fielder Austin Hays is drawing interest from multiple teams, with the Yankees, Mets, and Royals reportedly 'checking in.' Hays is considered a potential backup option for the Yankees if they miss out on Cody Bellinger. In 2025, he played 103 games for the Reds, slashing .266/.315/.453 with 15 HR and 64 RBI. After the Reds declined his $12M mutual option, he received a $1M buyout. In 2024, he split time between the Orioles and Phillies, limited to 22 games with the Phillies due to a kidney infection before being non-tendered. He was an All-Star in 2023.

Yankees Eye Cody Bellinger as Top LF Target; Austin Hays a Backup Option

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The New York Yankees are reportedly targeting free-agent left fielder Cody Bellinger as their primary option for the position. Should they be unable to secure Bellinger, the team has also 'checked in on' Austin Hays as a potential backup option. Bellinger's market status remains a key focus for the Yankees as they navigate their offseason roster decisions.

Pedro Báez's Deliberate Pace Draws Comparison to Epic 85-Minute At-Bat

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Houston Astros pitcher Pedro Báez, known for his deliberate pace on the mound, was implicitly referenced in discussions surrounding an extraordinary 85-minute at-bat. The lengthy at-bat served as a humorous benchmark, prompting observers to question if Báez's famously slow tempo could rival such an extended duration, highlighting his reputation for taking a long time to throw the ball.

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Phillies' Realmuto Negotiations Ongoing; Not Seeking Three-Year Deal

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The Philadelphia Phillies continue negotiations with catcher J.T. Realmuto, who reportedly is not seeking a three-year deal despite the club having an offer out for over two weeks. Entering his age-35 season, a three-year contract would be rare for a catcher. Realmuto has averaged 3.6 WAR per season since 2019, highlighting his significant value. The market remains fluid, and Philadelphia may explore trade options for a contingency plan given the thin free-agent catching class.

Harper Commits to Team USA for 2026 WBC, Set for First Base

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Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper, 33, has committed to Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, announcing his decision via Instagram. He is expected to play first base, a position Team USA manager Mark DeRosa sought to fill. Harper, who previously won gold with U.S. national teams, joins Kyle Schwarber on the squad. The WBC runs March 5-17, 2026, with Team USA beginning Pool B play on March 6 against Brazil in Houston. Last season, Harper posted a .261/.357/.487 slash line with 27 home runs and an .844 OPS.

All-Star Ryan O'Hearn Inks 2-Year, $29M Deal with Pittsburgh Pirates

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All-Star first baseman Ryan O'Hearn has officially signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates, with incentives potentially raising the deal to $30 million. The 32-year-old, who will average $14 million annually, receives the Pirates' first multi-year free agent deal since 2016. O'Hearn is coming off a 2025 season where he hit .281 with 17 home runs and 63 RBIs, playing for Kansas City and San Diego. He's expected to boost Pittsburgh's offense, which finished last in key categories, and offers versatility at first base and corner outfield. The deal includes $500,000 annually in performance bonuses.

Retired Dodger Clayton Kershaw & Wife Welcome Fifth Baby

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Newly retired Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw and his wife have welcomed their fifth child, a baby girl named Chloe Peach. Kershaw shared the joyous news via an Instagram post on Tuesday, marking a personal milestone for the former ace.

White Sox Ink Sean Newcomb to $4.5M Deal; Ready for Spring After Elbow Injury

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The White Sox signed left-handed pitcher Sean Newcomb to a one-year, $4.5 million contract on December 23, 2025. Newcomb's 2025 campaign ended prematurely due to left elbow inflammation, but he is expected to be ready for spring training. Last season, he posted a 2-5 record with a 2.73 ERA for the Red Sox and A's, including a standout 1.75 ERA, 50:14 K:BB over 51.1 innings as a reliever for the Athletics. His exact role with Chicago, whether as a starter or reliever, is yet to be determined.

Red Sox Acquire Willson Contreras; Expert Analyzes Trade Value

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The Red Sox acquired Willson Contreras, a much-needed right-handed bat and first base upgrade, in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals. Boston sent right-hander Hunter Dobbins (former top prospect recovering from ACL tear) and minor-league righties Yhoiker Fajardo and Blake Aita. SoxProspects.com expert Ian Cundall deemed it a "fair return," noting Contreras's value as a substantially better defender than Pete Alonso, with similar overall production. Contreras is expected to hit 20-25 home runs and boost the Red Sox offense, while his arrival will impact Triston Casas's role.