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MLB News

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

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Jeff McNeil Traded to Athletics, Eager to Join Young Core

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Jeff McNeil, 33, was traded from the Mets to the Oakland Athletics, along with cash, for 17-year-old pitching prospect Yordan Rodriguez. The veteran infielder, who departs the Mets with a .284 average, 80 HR, 367 RBI, and a .779 OPS, is expected to fill a crucial second base role and boost the A's offense. McNeil expressed excitement to join Oakland's "super fun, young team" and "great young core," noting his eagerness to contribute his experience and versatility. A's GM David Frost highlighted McNeil's fit, experience in a major market, and postseason play.

Luke Weaver Finalizes Mets Deal, Thanks Yankees Fans for Support

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Luke Weaver officially finalized his deal with the Mets, concluding his tenure with the Yankees. The right-hander, a reliable setup man, posted a 3.22 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 12 saves, and 191 strikeouts over 129 appearances as a Yankee. Weaver took to Instagram to thank Yankees fans, reflecting on his "rejuvenation" and acknowledging a new chapter with the Mets. His addition to the bullpen was also discussed on The Mets Pod.

Paul Skenes Joins Team USA Pitching Staff for 2026 World Baseball Classic

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Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes has committed to join Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Skenes is listed among the starting pitchers for the roster, which also features stars like Bryce Harper and Aaron Judge. The 2026 WBC is set to run from March 5-17, 2026, with Team USA aiming for a championship after their 2023 runner-up finish. Skenes' inclusion bolsters the pitching staff for the upcoming tournament.

Aaron Judge Joins Star-Studded Team USA Roster for 2026 WBC

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New York Yankees star Aaron Judge has committed to join Team USA for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Judge is part of a growing roster that includes fellow sluggers Bryce Harper and pitcher Paul Skenes. The 2026 WBC, scheduled from March 5-17, will see Team USA seeking redemption after their 2023 final loss to Japan. Judge's commitment adds significant power to the lineup as the team takes shape.

Adbert Alzolay Finds Groove in Winter League After Tommy John Rehab

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Adbert Alzolay, a potential Mets bullpen option, is finding his rhythm in the Venezuelan Winter League after returning from Tommy John surgery. Following a rough initial outing where he blew a save, the right-hander has posted three consecutive scoreless appearances, including securing the final outs of a 7-3 victory on Sunday. Alzolay, who signed a two-year minor league deal with the Mets last offseason, is now ready to compete for an Opening Day roster spot. He previously recorded 22 saves with a 2.67 ERA over 58 appearances with the Cubs.

Monday, December 22, 2025

Jeff McNeil Traded to Athletics, Recovery on Track for Spring Training

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Jeff McNeil, 33, has been traded from the Mets to the Oakland Athletics for RHP prospect Yordan Rodriguez, with New York sending cash to offset part of his remaining $17.75M contract. The two-time All-Star second baseman, who underwent thoracic outlet surgery post-2025, is expected to be ready for spring training. McNeil, who hit .243 with 12 homers and 54 RBIs in 122 games in 2025, will be the A's starting second baseman. The Mets reportedly viewed the move as roster reconstruction, as McNeil was 'locked into left field' and they now seek a right-handed batter to balance their lineup.

New York Mets Secure Leverage Reliever Luke Weaver on $22M Contract

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The New York Mets have officially signed right-handed reliever Luke Weaver to a two-year, $22 million contract. Weaver, 32, joins the Mets after spending the past two-plus seasons with the Yankees, where he emerged as a reliable leverage reliever. Mets president David Stearns praised his stuff and experience in high-pressure situations. During 2024-25, Weaver posted an 11-7 record with a 3.21 ERA and 0.969 WHIP over 148.2 innings across 126 games. Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted his significant career turnaround.

Nationals Sign LHP Foster Griffin to 1-Year, $5.5 Million Deal

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Left-hander Foster Griffin has finalized a one-year, $5.5 million contract with the Washington Nationals. The 30-year-old pitched in Japan for the Yomiuri Giants for the past three years and marks the first free agent signing for new Nationals president Paul Toboni. Griffin, a 2014 first-round pick by the Royals, made his MLB debut in 2020 and has seven career relief appearances with a 1-0 record and a 6.75 ERA, including stints with the Royals and Blue Jays in 2022.

Red Sox Acquire All-Star Willson Contreras from Cardinals in Trade

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The Boston Red Sox acquired three-time All-Star first baseman Willson Contreras from the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for right-hander Hunter Dobbins and two pitching prospects, with cash also sent to Boston. The 33-year-old, who moved to first base last season, batted .257 with 20 homers and 80 RBIs. Contreras, a career .258 hitter with 172 home runs, is expected to be Boston's primary first baseman, providing significant right-handed power. His acquisition creates flexibility for Triston Casas, who may begin 2026 in Triple-A to regain form after injuries.

Newly Acquired Brandon Lowe Confident in Pirates' 2026 Playoff Push

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Newly acquired Pirates second baseman Brandon Lowe expressed strong confidence in the team's 2026 playoff prospects, stating, 'I feel like there's a real opportunity there for a deep push.' Acquired in a three-team trade, Lowe, who hit 31 homers last season, is set to earn $11.5 million in 2026. He's willing to play 2B, OF, or DH, emphasizing versatility. His arrival signals a shift for the Pirates, who are actively seeking more offensive reinforcements to complement their pitching staff, including Cy Young winner Paul Skenes.

Pete Alonso Departs Mets, Signs $155M Deal with Baltimore Orioles

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Pete Alonso, a fan favorite and five-time All-Star, has departed the New York Mets as a free agent. He signed a significant five-year, $155 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles. His departure led the Mets to acquire Jorge Polanco, who is expected to take over as the primary first baseman in New York.

Jorge Polanco Inks $40M Mets Deal, Embraces New First Base Role

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Jorge Polanco officially signed a two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Mets, where he is expected to primarily play first base, replacing Pete Alonso. Despite having only one pitch of prior experience at 1B, Polanco expressed readiness for the transition, having prepared for it in Seattle and offering his versatility across the infield. The 32-year-old switch-hitter, an All-Star in 2019, posted a .265 average with 26 home runs, 78 RBIs, and an .821 OPS in 138 games for Seattle last season. He cited the Mets' winning aspirations as key to his decision.

Rays Hire Former All-Star Corey Dickerson as First-Base Coach

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The Tampa Bay Rays have hired recently retired player Corey Dickerson as their new first-base coach. Dickerson, 36, played for the Rays from 2016-17 during his 11-year MLB career, which concluded with his official retirement in 2024. He spent the 2025 season as head coach at Jackson Academy. An All-Star with the Rays in 2017, Dickerson will also be responsible for working with the team's outfielders and overseeing baserunning, bringing his extensive playing experience to the Major League staff.

Rob Refsnyder Signs One-Year, $6.25M Deal with Mariners

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Rob Refsnyder has signed a one-year, $6.25 million contract with the Seattle Mariners. The outfielder, who previously slashed .312/.407/.516 against left-handed pitching during his four seasons with the Red Sox, is expected to primarily face southpaws in Seattle. Refsnyder is capable of playing all three outfield positions, though his regular infield experience dates back to 2017. The deal was reported Monday by Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com.

Phillies Sign Right-Handed Reliever Zach Pop to One-Year Deal

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The Philadelphia Phillies have signed right-handed reliever Zach Pop to a one-year contract, bolstering their bullpen depth. The 29-year-old endured an injury-riddled 2025 season, struggling across three organizations. Prior to last season, he posted a 4.45 ERA over 158 appearances. Pop features a three-pitch mix, including a 96.4 mph sinker, and generates ground balls at a high rate (54.5% in 2025). With no Minor League options remaining, he will compete for a bullpen spot this spring, profiling as a pitch-to-contact arm.

Willson Contreras Trade Creates Uncertainty for Triston Casas' Red Sox Role

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The Boston Red Sox' acquisition of Willson Contreras has created uncertainty for Triston Casas' future with the club. Contreras is expected to be the primary first baseman, potentially sending Casas, 26, to Triple-A to shake off rust after an injury-plagued two seasons, including a ruptured patellar tendon that limited him to 29 games last year. Casas, who still has minor-league options, could eventually split first base and designated hitter duties with Contreras. His current trade value is low due to his recent injury history and lack of production.

Adrian Houser Inks Two-Year Deal with Giants After Velocity Bump

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Adrian Houser has signed a two-year deal with the San Francisco Giants, following a significant velocity bump and mechanical changes. The pitcher, who saw his sinker average 95 mph in September and his slider jump to 88 mph, is coming off his best big-league stint. After starting 2025 in Triple-A and a successful run with the White Sox (2.10 ERA in 11 starts), Houser was traded to Tampa Bay. The Giants believe his best days are ahead, slotting him as a potential third or fourth starter. He continues his carnivore diet and fasting for preparation.

Yankees Sign Zack Short to Minor League Deal

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The New York Yankees have signed INF Zack Short to a minor league deal. Short, a New York native, previously played for the Mets two seasons ago. He has also had stints with the Tigers, Red Sox, Braves, and Astros. The 30-year-old spent most of last season in Triple-A, logging only 22 major league appearances. He will compete for a bench role, offering versatility at second base, third base, and shortstop, despite a career .567 OPS.

Sunday, December 21, 2025

Red Sox Land Willson Contreras in Trade; Shoulder Injury Status Raises Concerns

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Willson Contreras has been traded to the Boston Red Sox from the St. Louis Cardinals for RHP Hunter Dobbins and minor leaguers. The 33-year-old, who waived his no-trade clause, transitioned to first base full-time in 2025. Last season, he slashed .257/.344/.447 with 20 HR, 80 RBI, and 5 SB, also ranking 4th in MLB first basemen with +6 OAA. Contreras ended 2025 on the IL with a right shoulder strain, making his spring training readiness uncertain. He is signed through 2027 with $36.5M remaining. This marks Boston's second big trade of the offseason, acquiring a much-needed 'big bat'.

Hunter Dobbins Traded to Cardinals; Expected Ready for Spring After ACL Surgery

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Right-hander Hunter Dobbins was traded from the Red Sox to the St. Louis Cardinals as part of the package for Willson Contreras. Dobbins' 2025 season was cut short in mid-July by a torn ACL in his right knee, requiring surgery. He began a throwing progression in early November and is slated to be ready for spring training. In 13 MLB appearances (11 starts) in 2025, he posted a 4.13 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and 45:17 K:BB across 61 innings. He could compete for a spot in the Cardinals' rotation.