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Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
The Mets have traded Brandon Nimmo to the Texas Rangers in exchange for Marcus Semien. This move has created a significant void in left field for New York, prompting the team to explore both internal and external options to fill the position as the offseason progresses.
Alek Manoah has signed a one-year, $1.95 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels. The former Blue Jays starter, an AL Cy Young finalist in 2022 with a 2.26 ERA, aims for a rebound after a challenging period. He posted a 5.87 ERA in 2023, tore his UCL in 2024 requiring surgery, and only pitched seven Triple-A games (2.97 ERA) in 2025, never reaching the majors. After being waived by Toronto and non-tendered by Atlanta, the Angels are taking a flier, hoping he can return to his previous form.
Free-agent left-hander Framber Valdez is "widely expected to sign with a different team" after serving as an anchor for the Houston Astros' rotation for half a decade. The Astros are unlikely to retain Valdez or pursue other top-tier free agents, instead exploring options like Zac Gallen, Michael King, Lucas Giolito, Merrill Kelly, or Chris Bassitt. A reunion with Justin Verlander is also possible. Internal candidates include Cristian Javier, Nate Pearson, Ronel Blanco, and Hayden Wesneski, though some are returning from injury. Hunter Brown took a "sizable step forward" in 2025.
The Houston Astros are considering moving Jose Altuve from second base due to his "troubling defensive trajectory." The preferred plan involves Altuve alternating between DH and left field with Yordan Alvarez to keep both healthy and in the lineup. This shift necessitates a new second baseman, with internal option Brice Matthews and external trade targets like St. Louis' Brendan Donovan, Jeff McNeil, or Brandon Lowe being explored. Free agent Jorge Polanco is also a possibility.
Giants infielder Casey Schmitt underwent surgery on his left wrist Tuesday. He is expected to recover in eight to 10 weeks, aligning his return timetable with the start of spring training in February.
The Houston Astros have agreed to a 1-year, $2.6 million Major League deal with right-hander Ryan Weiss, pending a physical. Weiss, 28, spent the last two seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization with the Hanwha Eagles, posting a 3.16 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and 305 strikeouts over 270 1/3 innings. He will add depth to the Astros' starting rotation.
Reliever Devin Williams has made a 'Big Apple switch,' joining the New York Yankees. This move prompts discussion on its potential impact on both the Yankees and the New York Mets, as well as free agent Edwin Diaz.
Garrett Cleavinger is anticipated to be a significant part of the Tampa Bay Rays' closer-by-committee for the 2026 season, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. He will share high-leverage responsibilities with Griffin Jax and Edwin Uceta. This strategic bullpen approach aims to distribute the closing duties among several pitchers, with Cleavinger expected to contribute substantially to the team's late-inning relief efforts.
Edwin Uceta is projected to be a key member of the Tampa Bay Rays' closer-by-committee for the 2026 season, as reported by Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. He is expected to share high-leverage duties with Griffin Jax and Garrett Cleavinger. This strategic bullpen approach aims to distribute the closing responsibilities among multiple pitchers, with Uceta playing a significant role in the team's late-inning plans to bolster their relief corps.
Griffin Jax is expected to be part of the Tampa Bay Rays' closer-by-committee in 2026, alongside Garrett Cleavinger and Edwin Uceta, as reported by Marc Topkin. Despite prior talk of stretching out for a rotation spot, the 31-year-old will remain in the bullpen. Acquired from the Twins at the trade deadline, Jax posted a 4.23 ERA in 2025, but his 2.51 FIP and 35 percent strikeout rate suggest better underlying performance. He is tentatively planned to share the closer role.
Sonny Gray, now with the Boston Red Sox, expressed enthusiasm for facing his former team, the New York Yankees. He stated his decision to join Boston was influenced by the rivalry, noting, “it’s easy to hate the Yankees.” Gray reflected on his challenging 2017-2018 tenure with the Yankees, where he posted a 4.51 ERA over 41 appearances (34 starts), admitting he “never wanted to go there in the first place” and felt he “wasn’t myself.” Despite the struggles, he credited the experience for personal growth, leading to two All-Star selections and an AL Cy Young runner-up finish with the Twins after his departure.
Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase is slated to appear in a federal trial scheduled for May, facing serious allegations of involvement in a pitch-rigging scandal. Federal charges assert that Clase, alongside fellow Guardians pitcher Luis Ortiz, accepted bribes. These payments were allegedly received in exchange for their assistance to gamblers, specifically by influencing outcomes related to betting on their pitches. The upcoming trial will delve into the specifics of these accusations, which could have significant repercussions for both players and the team.
Latest MLB hot stove rumors indicate a significant disconnect between the New York Mets and star closer Edwin Díaz. Reports suggest the two parties are 'years apart,' signaling a substantial hurdle in potential negotiations or future team plans. This development was highlighted in Tuesday's hot stove updates, published December 2, 2025.
The Atlanta Braves have signed left-handed reliever Danny Young to a split contract. Young is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent in May, with a typical recovery timeline of 12-18 months, making his availability unknown. The 31-year-old previously made a career-high 42 appearances for the Mets in 2024 and 10 more before being shut down this past season, after which New York non-tendered him. He holds a career 4.01 ERA with a 29% strikeout rate over 63 appearances (60 2/3 innings) and was previously with the Braves in '22 and '23.
Devin Williams, 31, has agreed to a three-year contract worth over $50 million with the New York Mets, pending a physical. The two-time All-Star and former NL Reliever of the Year (2020, 2023) spent 2025 with the Yankees, posting a career-worst 4.79 ERA and 18 saves in 62 innings, though he finished strong with 9 straight scoreless September outings and 4 postseason innings. Known for his 'Airbender' changeup, Williams could serve as a setup man or closer for the Mets, who are still pursuing Edwin Díaz.
Brandon Nimmo was traded by the New York Mets for Marcus Semien. This move is part of the Mets' offseason strategy, with the team reportedly considering Cody Bellinger as a potential replacement for Nimmo. The trade is seen as a foundational step in the Mets' efforts to build a championship pitching staff and make significant roster changes after a disappointing previous season.
Yankees' prospect Jasson Domínguez, 22, had a challenging 2025 season, performing as a league-average hitter but struggling defensively in the outfield. His playing time was significantly reduced due to Trent Grisham's strong performance, limiting him to four September starts and one postseason plate appearance. His future role is uncertain; a potential return of Cody Bellinger could relegate him to the bench, raising questions about his development and whether he might become a trade chip.
Center fielder Trent Grisham accepted the New York Yankees' qualifying offer, securing his return for the 2026 season. This decision, which cost the Yankees $22.5 million from their budget, solidifies the team's plans for center field. Grisham, who had a breakout 2025, is valued for his patient eye and solid defense. His return is noted to have impacted Jasson Domínguez's playing time, as the Yankees move forward with their roster construction.
Cody Bellinger, a major departing free agent for the New York Yankees, had a successful 2025 season, producing 5.1 bWAR and hitting 29 homers with strong left-field defense. The Yankees are interested in re-signing the 30-year-old, but a robust market and concerns over long-term contracts could complicate a reunion. The Mets are also eyeing Bellinger as a potential replacement for Brandon Nimmo. His decision will significantly impact the Yankees' offseason strategy and Jasson Domínguez's playing time.
The Mets are reportedly 'in the mix' for free agent designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, with the Red Sox and Reds also showing interest, though the Phillies remain the favorite. New York seeks power after Pete Alonso's free agency and Brandon Nimmo's trade. Schwarber, turning 33 in March, hit a career-high 56 homers last season for Philadelphia, slashing .240/.365/.563 across all 162 games. He has 46+ HRs in three of the last four seasons. Despite high strikeout rates (197 in last two seasons), he excels in advanced metrics like xwOBA and barrel percentage.
