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MLB News

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

Monday, December 8, 2025

Christian Scott Cleared for Spring Training After Tommy John Recovery

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Christian Scott is set to be a full participant in spring training, wrapping up his recovery from Tommy John surgery that sidelined him all of last season. The 25-year-old Mets pitcher posted a 4.56 ERA and 1.20 WHIP in his first nine MLB outings before his injury. Meanwhile, A.J. Minter is still uncertain for Opening Day as he recovers from a lat injury, though his absence is expected to be brief. Minter is expected to play a key role in the bullpen after picking up his player option.

Dodgers Downplay Teoscar Hernández Trade Rumors, Focus on Bullpen

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The Dodgers are downplaying rumors that Teoscar Hernández is being shopped, with manager Dave Roberts and GM Brandon Gomes expressing confidence in the outfielder. Hernández, who struggled offensively in 2025 with a .247 average and 25 home runs but provided crucial postseason contributions, is still seen as a fit. The team is prioritizing bullpen reinforcements, expressing interest in Robert Suárez and considering options like Pete Fairbanks and re-signing Evan Phillips. They also have faith in Tanner Scott's bounce-back potential.

Yamamoto's WBC Pitching Status Unclear, Roberts Hopes Not

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Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is unsure about the specific restrictions that will apply to Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, along with Shohei Ohtani and Roki Sasaki, during the World Baseball Classic. Roberts indicated he hopes Yamamoto will not pitch.

Roberts Uncertain About Ohtani's WBC Pitching Status

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Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed uncertainty regarding pitching restrictions for Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The manager is reportedly hoping Ohtani does not pitch in the event.

Sasaki's WBC Pitching Status Uncertain Per Roberts

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Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is uncertain about pitching restrictions for Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, Shohei Ohtani, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto in the World Baseball Classic. Roberts stated he is hoping Sasaki does not pitch in the tournament.

Soto to Remain Everyday RF for Mets in 2026

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Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Juan Soto will continue as the Mets' everyday right fielder in 2026, despite the potential for future DH duties during his 15-year contract. Soto prefers playing RF and takes pride in his defense, though his Fielding Run Value and Outs Above Average were negative last season. The team believes he can improve defensively. Keeping Soto in RF leaves the DH spot open for other potential roster moves.

Yankees Manager Boone: Ben Rice is 'Our First Baseman'

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Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed Ben Rice is currently the team's first baseman, though catching remains an option. Rice hit 26 HR with an .836 OPS last season. GM Brian Cashman also views Rice as having an everyday role at first base. Boone noted Rice's defensive development at first base and the value of his catching skills. The team is also discussing Cody Bellinger's potential return and Jasson Dominguez's progress.

Boone on Bellinger Pursuit: 'Who Wouldn't Want a Player Like That?'

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Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed strong interest in re-signing Cody Bellinger, highlighting his athleticism, versatility, and performance. Bellinger posted 29 HR, 98 RBI, and an .813 OPS in his lone Yankees season. Boone acknowledged Bellinger has earned his free agency status and awaits his decision. The manager also discussed Jasson Dominguez's development and Ben Rice's role at first base.

Brett Baty Set for Majority of Mets' Third Base Playing Time

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Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Brett Baty will see the majority of playing time at third base in spring training. Mendoza stated Baty 'took that step forward' last season, securing his hold on the everyday job. The team is also preparing Vientos for all scenarios at first and third, and Mauricio is expected to compete for a roster spot if healthy. Baty's role solidifies a key position for New York.

Mets Prioritize Re-Signing Pete Alonso Amidst Free Agency Talks, Red Sox Interest

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The New York Mets reiterate their priority to re-sign free agent slugger Pete Alonso, with President David Stearns and Manager Carlos Mendoza expressing strong desire to bring him back. Alonso, who mashed 38 homers, earned his fifth All-Star nod, and played all 162 games last season, is seeking a long-term deal, potentially 7+ years. He is expected to meet with interested teams like the Red Sox and Orioles at the Winter Meetings, though not the Mets due to mutual familiarity.

Astros Plan Yordan Alvarez for Primary DH Role to Manage Ankle Injury

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Houston Astros manager Joe Espada announced plans for Yordan Alvarez to spend 'most of his season' at designated hitter. This move aims to limit his time in the field and help keep him healthy, following an injury-shortened 2025 campaign where he played 32 games at DH and 15 in left field. Alvarez's 2025 season concluded prematurely due to a severe left ankle sprain, but general manager Dana Brown confirmed he will be ready for the start of spring training.

Mets' Kodai Senga Having 'Outstanding' Offseason, Feeling Great

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New York Mets president David Stearns reported Kodai Senga is having an "outstanding offseason," calling it the most encouraging player progression. Senga, who had an up-and-down 2023 season (1.47 ERA in first 73.2 IP, then 5.90 ERA in final 39.2 IP after a hamstring injury and Triple-A demotion), now "feels great" and is as good physically as he has been since the 2023 season. He's following his normal offseason routine and plans to come to the States at the end of the month to throw, a sign the team finds very encouraging.

Blue Jays GM: Trey Yesavage Will Not Have Hard Innings Cap in 2026

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Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins confirmed on December 8, 2025, that Trey Yesavage will join the team's rotation in 2026 without a strict innings limit. Yesavage, who threw 139.2 innings across minors, regular, and postseason play in 2025, will have his workload monitored, particularly early in the season. In his first professional year, he recorded a 3.21 ERA and 16:7 K:BB over 14 regular-season innings, alongside a 3.58 ERA and 39:11 K:BB across 27.2 postseason frames for Toronto.

Zack Wheeler Resumes Playing Catch After Surgery

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Zack Wheeler (shoulder) began playing catch last week, according to Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski. Wheeler underwent surgery in late September for venous thoracic outlet syndrome, following an August operation to remove a blood clot near his right shoulder. His readiness for Opening Day remains questionable, with a clearer timetable expected during spring training. The Philadelphia Phillies pitcher's recovery is ongoing after TOS surgery.

Isaac Paredes Set for Full Spring Training Activity

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Isaac Paredes (hamstring) will be a 'full-go' at the start of spring training, Astros general manager Dana Brown announced. Brown expressed confidence that Paredes, who was recovering from a right hamstring tear, will have no limitations when camp opens. Paredes is expected to have an everyday role for the Houston Astros in 2026, though his exact position remains undecided.

Sonny Gray Joins Red Sox Rotation Amidst Winter Meetings

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Sonny Gray has been acquired by the Boston Red Sox from the St. Louis Cardinals, bolstering their starting rotation alongside Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello. The Red Sox also acquired Johan Oviedo from the Pittsburgh Pirates. This move comes as the MLB Winter Meetings are underway, with other team activities including discussions around Pete Alonso and conflicting reports regarding Ketel Marte.

Mason Miller to Remain in Bullpen for Padres

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Mason Miller will stay in the bullpen for the San Diego Padres next season, manager Craig Stammen confirmed. The team considered a move to the rotation but deemed it a 'risky proposition health-wise and performance-wise.' Miller is expected to open 2026 as the Padres' closer, making him a strong fantasy draft target with a 2.56 ERA and 43.1% strikeout rate over the past two seasons.

Diamondbacks Sign Michael Soroka to 1-Year, $7.5M Deal

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The Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a one-year, $7.5 million contract with right-hander Michael Soroka, pending a physical. The 28-year-old is expected to strengthen the back end of the Diamondbacks' starting rotation. Soroka, a 2019 All-Star, previously pitched for the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs, and has battled Achilles injuries.

Phillies Prioritize Re-Signing J.T. Realmuto Amid Free Agency

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The Phillies are prioritizing re-signing catcher J.T. Realmuto, who will be 35 entering the 2026 regular season. The team views him as a treasured clubhouse presence and lacks a viable replacement option. While prepared to explore alternatives if necessary, management has thoroughly communicated their desire to bring him back. His return is considered crucial for the team's catching position.

Schwarber Free Agency Heats Up; Phillies Remain Front-Runners

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Kyle Schwarber's free agency is a major focus at the Winter Meetings. The Phillies are considered front-runners, with the Mets, Red Sox, and Reds also in contention. The Pirates reportedly offered a 4-year, $100M+ deal, but larger offers (5 years, $150-160M+) are anticipated. Phillies management expressed strong interest and optimism but also a need for clarity soon, as his decision will significantly impact their 2026 roster.