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MLB News

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

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Yankees Protect Top Prospect Spencer Jones, Add Outfielder to 40-Man Roster

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The New York Yankees have officially added top outfield prospect Spencer Jones to their 40-man roster, protecting him from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. Jones, ranked as the organization's No. 4 prospect by MLB Pipeline, was among five Top 100 prospects who would have been exposed. His big league debut is projected between the 2026 and 2027 seasons. In 2025, Jones was one of the best minor league hitters, slashing .274/.362/.571 across 403 at-bats with 35 home runs, 23 doubles, 80 RBI, 102 runs, and 29 stolen bases in 116 combined games between Double-A Somerset and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He ranked second in minor league home runs and fifth in slugging.

Yankees Outfielder Trent Grisham Accepts Qualifying Offer After Career-Best Season

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Trent Grisham accepted the New York Yankees' one-year, $22.025 million qualifying offer on November 18, 2025, returning to the Bronx for the 2026 season. The 28-year-old outfielder had a breakout 2025, setting career highs with 34 homers, 74 RBI, a .464 slugging, 116 hits, 82 walks, and an .811 OPS. Initially a backup, he became a leadoff hitter after a strong April. Despite benefiting from Yankee Stadium's short porch, advanced metrics showed legitimate improvements in his swing. GM Brian Cashman expressed comfort with the move, noting a thin outfield market and stating it wouldn't preclude pursuing Cody Bellinger. Grisham's decision, one of a record four QO acceptances, provides certainty amidst potential free-agent market skepticism and upcoming CBA negotiations.

Mariners Re-Sign Josh Naylor After Successful Half-Season Stint

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The Seattle Mariners have re-signed first baseman Josh Naylor, bringing him back after his successful half-season with the club. The deal was highlighted during "The Mets Pod" as a potential benchmark influencing the free agent market for other power hitters like Pete Alonso. Naylor's return addresses a key need for the Mariners and signals their intent to build on recent successes. Details of his contract were not specified in the provided articles, but his re-signing is a notable early move in the offseason.

Cubs Ace Shota Imanaga Accepts Qualifying Offer for 2026 Return

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Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Shota Imanaga accepted a one-year, $22.025 million qualifying offer on November 18, 2025, ensuring his return for the 2026 season. The 32-year-old lefty was one of a record four players to accept the QO. Imanaga posted a 9-8 record with a 3.73 ERA in 25 starts in 2025, missing time with a hamstring strain and struggling with home runs in September. He surprisingly became a free agent after the Cubs declined his club option and he declined his player option. This followed a stellar 2024 rookie campaign where he was an All-Star and Cy Young contender, going 15-3 with a 2.91 ERA. His QO acceptance provides market certainty after an injury-affected year.

Gleyber Torres Accepts Detroit Tigers' $22 Million Qualifying Offer for 2026 Season

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Gleyber Torres has accepted the Detroit Tigers' $22.025 million qualifying offer, opting to stay with the team for the 2026 season rather than test free agency. Torres, 28, earned $15 million in his inaugural season with the Tigers last year. During that season, he recorded a .256 batting average, hit 16 home runs, and drove in 74 runs. His decision to accept the QO means he will return to Detroit, securing a higher salary for the upcoming year while understanding there is a potential labor battle brewing due to the expiration of the CBA after next year.

Framber Valdez Declines Astros' Qualifying Offer, Enters Free Agency After Strong 2024 Season

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Framber Valdez, the Houston Astros' ace, officially declined the team's one-year, $22.025 million qualifying offer on Tuesday, making him a free agent. Valdez posted a 2.91 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 169:55 K:BB across 176.1 innings in 2024, continuing his trend of strong performance with a 60.6% groundball rate. While his 3.36 xERA and 3.08 xFIP suggest some fortune, his numbers remain robust. He has consistently delivered double-digit wins and voluminous innings, including a no-hitter against Cleveland in 2024. Despite a late-season dip (3-4, 4.29 ERA after August 1st) and a disappointing postseason (12 ER, three losses), Valdez's volume (201.1 innings, fifth most in MLB) and groundball tendencies are key assets. He relies on a sinker and curve, with a recently introduced cutter showing promise. Valdez's career has seen him overcome past walk rate concerns and a finger injury, ascending to a prominent role for Houston. While his strikeout rate isn't elite, his ability to work deep into games and limit home runs provides a high floor, though his 2021 ERA of 3.14 is likely a peak.

Mets Release Right-Hander Frankie Montas After Disastrous Season

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The New York Mets are releasing right-hander Frankie Montas after a single, "disastrous" season with the club. The move, announced on November 18, 2025, allows the Mets to protect outfield prospect Nick Morabito from the Rule 5 draft. Montas, who exercised his $17 million option for 2026, is expected to miss the entire upcoming season due to elbow surgery. After signing a two-year, $34 million deal, his 2025 season was delayed by a lat strain. He debuted in late June but was ineffective, recording a 6.28 ERA and 1.603 WHIP in nine appearances.

Bo Bichette Drawing Significant Free Agency Interest Despite Defensive Concerns

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Bo Bichette is generating considerable buzz in free agency, with numerous teams eyeing him for shortstop, second, or third base. After a strong bounce-back 2025 season where he hit .311 with 18 homers, 94 RBIs, and an .840 OPS for the Blue Jays, his bat and young age (28 in 2026) are major draws. Despite tying for last in MLB with -13 Outs Above Average defensively in 2025, shortstop-needy teams like the Braves and Tigers remain interested, as reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The Mets, Phillies, and Giants, who have established shortstops, could also pursue him for other infield positions. The Red Sox are reportedly considering Bichette to add an impact bat, according to WEEI’s Rob Bradford. A return to the Blue Jays, who are expected to be aggressive and could also sign Kyle Tucker, is not ruled out, even with Andrés Giménez capable of playing shortstop.

Nathaniel Lowe Designated for Assignment by Red Sox Following Trade for Tristan Gray

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The Boston Red Sox designated first baseman Nathaniel Lowe for assignment on Tuesday to clear a 40-man roster spot after acquiring infielder Tristan Gray from the Tampa Bay Rays. Lowe, 30, had batted .280 (28-for-100) with a .790 OPS in 34 games for the Red Sox in 2025, making 26 starts at first base and one as the designated hitter. Prior to joining Boston, he hit .216 (95-for-440) in 119 games for the Washington Nationals in 2025, having been traded there from the Rangers in the winter. Over his four seasons as the Rangers' primary first baseman (2021-24), Lowe maintained a .359 on-base percentage, ranking sixth at his position, but his fantasy contributions were inconsistent, highlighted by a 27-homer, .302 average season in 2022, contrasting with 16-18 homers and .262-.265 averages in other years. His quality of contact diminished for the second consecutive year in 2024. Lowe, a disciplined hitter with good on-base skills and a quality glove, has a career .264 average in 839 MLB games across multiple teams.

Pete Alonso Seeks Seven-Year Deal Amidst Mets, Red Sox Interest

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Free agent Pete Alonso is reportedly seeking a seven-year contract, making his future a major offseason domino. While considered the best fit for the New York Mets' power needs and with Queens as his "most logical landing spot," his prolonged free agency could prompt the Mets to explore other options. The Boston Red Sox have emerged as the "strongest contender" for Alonso if he doesn't re-sign with New York, actively seeking a power-hitting first baseman. His market value is being compared to recent signings like Josh Naylor's. The Mets' offensive strategy hinges on Alonso's decision, potentially leading them to pursue one or two additional impact bats depending on his departure or return.

Mets Show Interest in Free Agent Reliever Devin Williams Amidst Bullpen Reshaping

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The New York Mets are reportedly interested in signing free agent reliever Devin Williams as they look to reshape their bullpen this offseason, potentially alongside Edwin Diaz. Williams, 31, had a "down year" with the Yankees in 2025 after being acquired from the Brewers, posting a 4.79 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in 67 appearances, often struggling in the closer's role. However, his 2.68 FIP suggests bad luck, and his underlying metrics (low walk rate, average home run rate, elite bat-missing ability, and "airbender" changeup) indicate his struggles might be an aberration. Williams, who earned $8.6 million in 2025, has also been linked to the Dodgers and Blue Jays. His departure leaves a significant hole in the Yankees' bullpen.

Mets' Brandon Nimmo Emerges as Surprising Trade Candidate This Offseason

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New York Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo is a "somewhat surprising" trade candidate as the team aims to reshape its roster this offseason, according to reports from ESPN and SNY. Nimmo, 33 in March, holds a full no-trade clause in his eight-year, $162 million contract, which owes him $20.5 million annually through 2030. In 2025, he posted a consistent .262/.324/.436 slash line with a career-best 25 homers, 92 RBI, and strong exit velocity metrics. However, his defensive metrics (range, arm strength) ranked below league average. A trade could open an outfield spot for targets like Cody Bellinger, though his contract and no-trade clause might necessitate the Mets paying down part of his deal.

Former Giants Pitching Coach J.P. Martinez Joins Atlanta Braves Staff

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J.P. Martinez, who served as the San Francisco Giants' pitching coach for one season and spent five total seasons with the organization, has accepted a new role as the bullpen coach for the Atlanta Braves. Martinez had expressed a desire to remain with the Giants, but with his return not guaranteed, he opted for the "bird in hand" opportunity with the Braves. Giants president of baseball operations Buster Posey confirmed the team was still evaluating its coaching staff and had not informed Martinez he wouldn't return, expressing support for his future success.

World Series Champion Kyle Hendricks Retires After Illustrious Career

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Right-hander Kyle Hendricks, instrumental in the Chicago Cubs' 2016 World Series victory, announced his retirement on November 18, 2025, at age 35. "The Professor" compiled a 105-91 record with a 3.79 ERA over 11 seasons with the Cubs and one with the Los Angeles Angels. His 2016 All-Star season featured a major league-best 2.13 ERA, and he started Game 7 of the World Series. Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts lauded him as "one of the best all-time Cubs pitchers." Acquired in 2012, Hendricks debuted in 2014, going 97-81 with a 3.68 ERA for Chicago before a 2025 stint with the Angels (8-10, 4.76 ERA).

Kyle Schwarber Draws Widespread Interest as Phillies Face Stiff Competition for Top Free Agent DH

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Designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, identified as one of the top five free agents in his class, is attracting immense demand this offseason. The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly eager to reunite with him but face significant competition from a growing list of suitors. ESPN indicates that Schwarber's appeal stems from his strong production at the plate, coupled with his age and positional concerns potentially limiting his contractual term. Interested teams include high-rollers like the Red Sox, Mets, and Blue Jays, in addition to the Pirates. Schwarber, who will turn 33 in March, has posted impressive averages over the last three seasons, hitting .228/.358/.508 (135 OPS+) with 47 home runs.

Blue Jays Emerge as Favorites for Star Free Agent Outfielder Kyle Tucker Amid Broad Interest

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Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, widely considered the best available free agent this offseason, is generating significant buzz. According to ESPN, other front offices view the Blue Jays as the favorites to land him. The Dodgers are also expected to show interest, particularly if Tucker is open to a short-term arrangement. A slew of other teams, including the Phillies, Giants, Orioles, Yankees, and Mets, are also potential landing spots, depending on how the market develops. Notably, the Chicago Cubs, who acquired Tucker in a trade last winter from the Astros, do not appear to have serious interest in retaining him.

Nolan Arenado's Cardinals Trade Prospects Rise as St. Louis Seeks Payroll Relief

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Nolan Arenado, 34, is increasingly likely to be traded by the St. Louis Cardinals this offseason as the team pivots towards a younger roster and seeks payroll relief. Despite his bat showing a decline phase, Arenado remains a quality defender at third base. The Cardinals are motivated to move him, not only to clear salary but also to open up third base for Nolan Gorman. Unlike last offseason when he blocked a deal to the Astros, Arenado has indicated a willingness to expand his list of acceptable trade destinations. Furthermore, ownership appears willing to include a significant amount of cash to make his contract more palatable for potential suitors. Arenado is owed $27 million for 2026 (with $5 million covered by the Rockies) and $15 million for 2027, totaling a $37 million balance due, with St. Louis prepared to cover more than half. He still projects to put up WAR in the twos, making him a tradable asset for teams needing a defensive upgrade or a bottom-of-the-lineup bat.

Free Agent Cody Bellinger Draws Interest from Dodgers, Mets, Yankees

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Free agent Cody Bellinger, coming off a 29-homer season with the New York Yankees, is drawing significant offseason interest from multiple clubs, including a potential reunion with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers view him as a versatile, familiar fit, likely seeking a 5-7 year deal in the $150M-$175M range, a shorter commitment than other top outfielders. Yankees GM Brian Cashman stated Grisham's QO acceptance wouldn't deter their pursuit of Bellinger, who was arguably their second-best hitter in 2025. The Mets are also considering him, particularly if Pete Alonso departs or Brandon Nimmo is traded. Bellinger, turning 31, staged a career revival after struggling in 2021-2022, posting a .281 average and 125 OPS+ over the last three years. While benefiting from Yankee Stadium's hitter-friendly environment in 2025, he improved his approach and balanced platoon splits. Concerns include his home/road splits and contract length.

Red Sox Acquire Infielder Tristan Gray from Rays in Trade Deal

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The Boston Red Sox acquired infielder Tristan Gray from the Tampa Bay Rays on November 18, 2025, in exchange for minor-league pitcher Luis Guerrero. To accommodate Gray on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated first baseman Nathaniel Lowe for assignment. Gray, 29, has played for four teams since his 2023 MLB debut. In 2025, he appeared in 30 games for the Rays, hitting .231 with a .693 OPS, three home runs, nine RBI, and five doubles. Known for his positional versatility, Gray made starts at second base, shortstop, and first base last season, projecting as an infield depth option for Boston.

Astros Star Jose Altuve Undergoes Minor Foot Procedure, Expected Ready for Spring Training

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Houston Astros star Jose Altuve underwent a minor procedure on his right foot on Monday, November 18, 2025, to drain fluid from an injury between two toes. The nine-time All-Star, who was bothered by the injury during the final two weeks of last season, is expected to be ready by spring training. Altuve, set to play his 16th season with the Astros, played both second base and left field last season, where he hit .265 with 26 home runs and 77 RBIs, according to an MLB.com report.