MLB free agency tracker: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades after 2022 Winter Meetings
MLB free agency for 2022-23 reached a fever pitch during the Winter Meetings in San Diego. The Aaron Judge sweepstakes concluded with his return to the Bronx, the Mets reunited Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, the Padres signed another nine-figure shortstop in Xander Bogaerts, and the Cardinals replaced catching legend Yadier Molina with former divisional rival Willson Contreras.
Another domino seemingly fell when shortstop Carlos Correa agreed to a massive 13-year, $350 million contract with the Giants, the most money for a shortstop in MLB history. Correa’s deal came on the deal of Bogaerts’ 11-year, $280 million deal, and gave Correa a slightly higher AAV.
But then the deal collapsed and the Mets jumped in, agreeing to a 12-year, $315 million contract with Correa, who will play third base in New York alongside Francisco Lindor.
The starting pitching market is its own beast after Jacob deGrom landed in Arlington and Verlander replaced him in New York. Carlos Rodon also went to the Big Apple, but to the Yankees on a huge deal. What’s left are the likes of Nathan Eovaldi and Corey Kluber.
MORE: How Yankees can get better after Aaron Judge signing: Cut the dead weight
The Sporting News is tracking MLB free agency, along with how we’ve gotten to this point.
Post-MLB Winter Meetings rumors, news, signings
Phillies bring Craig Kimbrel back to NL East
Date: Friday, Dec. 23
Source: Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
Kimbrel, 34, joins Philadelphia on a one-year contract worth a reported $10 million. The former Braves closer lost his ninth-inning job with the Dodgers late last season; it was not immediately clear whether he will close for the Phils, who also have Seranthony Dominguez.
Blue Jays acquire Daulton Varsho in trade with Diamondbacks
Date: Friday, Dec. 23
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Blue Jays added outfield help before Christmas. After signing former Rays center fielder Kevin Kiermaier, Toronto acquired Varsho, as Heyman first reported. Varsho brings significant speed to the outfield and will provide a defensive upgrade.
The Diamondbacks received outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and catcher Gabriel Moreno in return. Moreno was Toronto’s No. 1 prospect last year and spent time with the big league club.
The price the Blue Jays paid for Varsho figures to be lower than what the Pirates are asking for outfielder Bryan Reynolds, who has requsted a trade from Pittsburgh.
Giants land outfielder Michael Conforto on two-year deal
Date: Friday, Dec. 23
Source: Buster Olney, ESPN
The Giants made a signing, and for a team that just failed a player physical over an eight-year-old ankle injury, it’s a puzzling one. Michael Conforto was signed to a two-year, $36 million deal that has a year one opt-out, per Buster Olney. Conforto missed all of last season after shoulder surgery, and he turned down an offer from the Astros that would have made him eligible for the postseason.
Mets send James McCann and cash to the Orioles
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 21
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
New York found a taker for its former No. 1 catcher, who underwhelmed after signing a four-year, $40 million contract prior to the 2021 season. The club sweetened the deal by agreeing to pay $19 million of the $24 million remaining on McCann’s contract through the 2024 season, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand and Newsday’s Tim Healey. The teams announced the trade late Wednesday; New York will receive a player to be named. McCann, 32, bottomed out in 2022; injuries and a hitting slump (.538 OPS) forced him into a time-share with Tomas Nido. His fate in New York was sealed this offseason when the team agreed to a contract with free-agent catcher Omar Narvaez. Now, McCann will back up and mentor young franchise cornerstone Adley Rutschman in Baltimore.
Mets wind up with Carlos Correa after Giants deal falls apart
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 21
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
A late-night shocker: Correa agrees to a 12-year, $315 contract with New York after his agreement with San Francisco falls apart. There were reports that Correa’s physical turned up something that kept the Giants from going ahead with their 13-year, $350 million agreement. As soon as Correa was available again, Mets owner Steve Cohen leaped into action, working with Correa’s agent, Scott Boras, to get a new deal done. Correa reportedly will shift from shortstop to third base, leaving Francisco Lindor at short. Those two will be part of a team that, for now, has a $380 million payroll for luxury tax purposes.
MORE: Carlos Correa contract details
Angels fill out lineup with Brandon Drury
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 20
Source: Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
The Angels have landed one of the top remaining hitters on the free-agent market, signing infielder Brandon Drury to a two-year, $17 million deal. Drury is coming off his best season as a major-leaguer, batting .263 with 28 home runs and an .813 OPS between the Reds and Padres in 2022. The 30-year-old brings some versatility to the Angels, as he spent considerable time at first, second, and third base last season. Drury figures to see time across the diamond in Anaheim.
Padres keep adding with versatile veteran Matt Carpenter
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 20
Source: AJ Cassavell, MLB.com and Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
After a high-impact stint with the Yankees in 2022, veteran utility man Matt Carpenter is headed to San Diego for 2023. AJ Cassavell reported the 37-year-old Carpenter has agreed to a one-year deal with a player option for 2024. According to Ken Rosenthal, the contract guarantees Carpenter $12 million and could max out at $21 million. After spending the first 11 season of his big-league career with the Cardinals, Carpenter compiled an otherworldly 1.138 OPS in 47 games for the Yankees last season, hitting 15 home runs in 154 plate appearances while seeing time at four different positions and DH.
Padres sign pitcher Seth Lugo, may get chance to start
Date: Monday, Dec. 19
Source: Jon Heyman, The New York Post
The Padres have already been busy this offseason, and they aren’t resting on their laurels. San Diego signed pitcher Seth Lugo to a two-year contract worth $15 million, with a player option after the fist year, per Jon Heyman. Lugo, who wanted to start, will get a chance in San Diego’s rotation after working out of the Mets bullpen.
Red Sox sign DH/1B Justin Turner
Date: Sunday, Dec. 18
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Red Sox have added a corner infield across the field from Rafael Devers, signing long-time Dodger third baseman Justin Turner, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The deal is for two years and just under $22 million with an opt out after the first season, per Passan. The 38-year-old corner infielder slashed .278/.350/.438 last season with 13 home runs in 128 games.
Pirates sign C Austin Hedges
Date: Saturday, Dec. 17
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Pirates have landed a new catcher, signing former Padres and Guardians catcher Austin Hedges to a deal worth $5 million over a year, per Jon Heyman. Hedges hit .163 with seven home runs in 105 games last year in Cleveland.
J.D. Martinez signs with Dodgers
Date: Saturday, Dec. 17
Source: Robert Murray, Fansided
J.D. Martinez is headed back to the NL West. Martinez has reportedly signed a deal with the Dodgers, per Fansided’s Robert Murray. He has spent the past five years with the Red Sox. He is coming off his fewest home runs (16) in a season in which he logged at least 120 games in his career.
Audacy’s Jon Heyman reported the deal is expected to be a $10 million contract.
Dansby Swanson to sign with Cubs
Date: Saturday, Dec. 17
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
We can close the book on the top shortstops, as Dansby Swanson is reportedly closing in on a deal with the Cubs, per Jeff Passan. The deal will move Nico Hoerner to second base and give the Cubs a veteran presence in their infield.
According to Russell Dorsey, the deal is for seven years, $177 million with a no-trade clause. That puts him a tier below the top-paid shortstops this offseason, a reasonable number for the longtime Brave.
Red Sox designate Eric Hosmer for assignment
Date: Friday, Dec. 16
Source: Red Sox
The Hosmer era in Boston is over after just 14 games. Four months after acquiring the first baseman from the Padres at the deadline, the Red Sox designated him for assignment. Hosmer will go through waivers, but the move will almost certainly result in his release. Hosmer is still owed $39 million over the next three years, which San Diego is mostly paying. His exit likely means Triston Casas is set to see significant time at first base for the Red Sox in 2023.
White Sox set franchise record with deal for Andrew Benintendi
Date: Friday, Dec. 16
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The White Sox agreed to a five-year, $75 million deal with the free-agent outfielder Andrew Benintendi, according to Passan and other reporters. The contract would be the largest handed out by the White Sox in free agency, and the length of the deal is sure to raise eyebrows. Benintendi is coming off a strong season between the Royals and Yankees, displaying impressive contact, but his relative lack of power and struggles in 2019 and 2020 make the deal a gamble for Chicago.
Twins gamble on Joey Gallo with one-year deal
Date: Friday, Dec. 16
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Twins have agreed to a one-year, $11 million deal with outfielder Joey Gallo, according to Heyman. Gallo, an all-star with the Rangers in 2021, has struggled mightily at the plate ever since a trade to the Yankees that same season. Gallo was a power threat and on-base machine in Texas, so the Twins are hoping he’ll regain that form away from the spotlight. MLB’s plan to strictly limit defensive shifts could also benefit the pull-hitting Gallo.
Mets discussing McCann, Carrasco trades
Date: Friday, Dec. 16
Source: Andy Martino, SNY
The Mets are discussing trades involving catcher James McCann and starter Carlos Carrasco, according to Martino. McCann became more of a trade candidate after the Mets agreed to a one-year deal with catcher Omar Narvaez on Thursday, with highly touted prospect Francisco Alvarez waiting in the wings at the position. Carrasco made 29 starts for a Mets rotation bitten by injuries in 2022. He’s owed $14 million next season.
A’s ink reliever Trevor May to one-year deal
Date: Friday, Dec. 16
Source: Robert Murray, FanSided
The low-spending Athletics added a rare veteran free-agent Friday, agreeing to a one-year, $7 million deal with the former Twins and Mets reliever. May is coming off a tough year in New York, but he can be a veteran anchor for the A’s bullpen. May is Oakland’s third veteran free-agent addition of the offseason, joining utility infielders Aledmys Diaz and Jace Peterson.
Mets land catcher Omar Narvaez on one-year deal
Date: Thursday, Dec. 15
Source: Joel Sherman, New York Post
The Mets have decided to upgrade at catcher, signing Omar Narvaez to a one-year deal with a player option for 2024, per Joel Sherman. The move likely means James McCann will be on the move whereas Francisco Alvarez will continue to be eased into the team’s day-to-day in 2023.
Yankees sign Carlos Rodon to six-year deal worth $162 million
Date: Thursday, Dec. 15
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Yankees landed their second big free agent of the offseason (although to be fair, they were the incumbents on Aaron Judge), signing star southpaw Carlos Rodon to a six-year, $162 million deal with a full no-trade clause, per Jon Heyman. In his one year with the Giants, Rodon posted a 2.88 ERA and a 14-8 record.
Rodon Yankees deal: 6/162mm. Full no trade
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 16, 2022
Yankees struggling to trade Josh Donaldson, Aaron Hicks
Date: Thursday, Dec. 15
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Yankees are reportedly having trouble unloading Josh Donaldson and Aaron Hicks, as suitors for the two have run dry. The Yankees are paying both at a premium this year, and they haven’t played up to those expectations. Meanwhile, the Pirates are reportedly asking for a “ridiculous” price for Bryan Reynolds, indicating despite his trade request they don’t want him to go anywhere.
Tigers sign pitcher Michael Lorenzen to one-year deal
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Source: Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
The Tigers have reportedly agreed to a one-year deal worth $8.5 million with pitcher Michael Lorenzen, per Ken Rosenthal. Lorenzen pitched for the Angels last season after beginning his career with the Reds, posting a 4.24 ERA and an 8-6 record.
Dodgers reportedly sign veteran pitcher Noah Syndergaard to one-year deal
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
For the second offseason in a row, Noah Syndergaard has signed in Los Angeles. This time, however, the veteran righty is joining the Dodgers instead of the Angels. Per Jeff Passan, Syndergaard is expected to join the rotation for the Dodgers on a one-year contract after Tyler Anderson walked in free agency. Syndergaard was used sparingly as an opener during their postseason run last year.
Syndergaard’s contract is for $13 million, and it can go up to $14.5 million with escalators, per Mike DiGiovanna.
Carlos Rodon and the Yankees have a “sizable gap” in negotiations
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Source: Jon Heyman
The Yankees and Carlos Rodon have been tied together often this offseason, with New York seemingly coveting the southpaw. However, negotiations don’t seem to be going particularly well, with Jon Heyman reporting a “sizable gap” between the Yankees’ offer and what Rodon is seeking.
🎥 @JonHeyman joins @DHenryTV to discuss the #Yankees’ attempt at upgrading their rotation by pursuing the top free agent pitcher on the market, Carlos Rodon pic.twitter.com/i8uXVNs4nf
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) December 14, 2022
Chaim Bloom says the Red Sox are “very, very actively” exploring trades
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Source: MLB network
After striking out for Xander Bogaerts, the Red Sox have found themselves in a brutal spot this offseason. They reportedly severely misread Bogaerts’ market, and the clock is ticking to extend Rafael Devers. With that in mind, the Red Sox are seeking help outside of the organization, with Chaim Bloom saying they are “very, very actively exploring the trade market.” What that means for a team with limited assets is unclear, but unless the Red Sox plan on bottoming out next season, there’s no denying they need help.
The Red Sox are “very, very actively exploring” the trade market, according to Chaim Bloom.#MLBTonight | @MelanieLynneN | @Plakata | @JakePeavy_22 | @mikelowell25 pic.twitter.com/btdOYYlP4A
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 14, 2022
Dodgers get J.P. Feyereisen from Rays
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 14
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN / Marc Topkin, Tampa Bay Times
The Dodgers added another bullpen arm for the future, acquiring right-hander J.P. Feyereisen from the Rays. Feyereisen, who did not allow an earned run in 22 appearances last season, is expected to miss most of the 2023 campaign after having shoulder surgery last week. Marc Topkin reported Tampa Bay will get 25-year-old lefty reliever Jeff Belge, who has yet to pitch above Single-A, in return.
Right-handed reliever J.P. Feyereisen is headed to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a trade, sources tell ESPN. Heading back to the Tampa Bay Rays is a minor league pitcher.
Rays DFA’d Feyereisen to make room for Zach Eflin. An injury is expected to keep Feyereisen out most of 2023.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 14, 2022
Giants land prized shortstop with massive Carlos Correa deal
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Giants missed out on Aaron Judge and Xander Bogaerts, but if the numbers of Carlos Correa’s new contract are anything to go by, they weren’t going to take strike three. San Francisco reportedly inked Correa to a 13-year, $350 million deal in the late hours of Tuesday night, making him the highest-paid shortstop (by total money) in MLB history. The 28-year-old shortstop opted out of his three-year deal with the Twins this season, and he found a long-term home on the west coast.
BREAKING: Shortstop Carlos Correa and the San Francisco Giants are in agreement on a 13-year, $350 million contract, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 14, 2022
Ross Stripling goes to Giants on two-year deal
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Source: Jeff Passan
The world doesn’t stop for the Giants as they continue their very loud pursuit of Carlos Correa. They signed standout pitcher Ross Stripling to a two-year deal worth $25 million Tuesday, which has an opt-out after the first year as well. Stripling was very good for the Blue Jays in 2022, and he’s a good get for a Giants team that looks likely to lose Carlos Rodon to free agency.
Right-hander Ross Stripling and the San Francisco Giants are in agreement on a two-year, $25 million contract that includes an opt-out after the first season, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN.
Stripling, 33, was excellent for Toronto in ’22 with a 3.01 ERA and 3.11 FIP.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 13, 2022
Guardians sign a catcher in Mike Zunino
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 13
Source: Ken Rosenthal
After the Braves traded for Sean Murphy Monday, the Guardians found themselves with limited options at catcher. They finally found a player for the right price in Mike Zunino, per Ken Rosenthal. Between Josh Bell and Zunino, the Guardians have made some very on-brand moves this offseason. Zunino missed most of last season after getting surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome in his left arm.
Free-agent catcher Mike Zunino is signing with the Guardians, source tells @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 13, 2022
Sean Murphy heads to Braves in 3-team deal with Athletics, Brewers
Date: Monday, Dec. 12
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Athletics have found a suitor for Sean Murphy, with the catcher landing in Atlanta as part of a multilayered three-team deal that also includes the Brewers and has fellow catchers William Contreras and Manny Pina finding new homes as well.
Full trade, per ESPN sources:
Atlanta gets: C Sean Murphy
Oakland gets: LHP Kyle Muller, UT Esteury Ruiz, RHP Freddy Tarnok, RHP Royber Salinas, C Manny Piña
Milwaukee gets: C William Contreras, RHP Justin Yeager, RHP Joel Payamps
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 12, 2022
The Braves get Murphy with another three seasons until he hits free agency, making him a perfect candidate for Alex Anthopolous’ strategy of buying out years of team control and arbitration. Atlanta’s incumbent starter, 2022 All-Star William Contreras, moves to Milwaukee to face off against his brother Willson and the Cardinals in the NL Central. Pina, who spent several years with the Brewers before landing in Atlanta in 2022, heads to Oakland.
Blue Jays make big-money move for Chris Bassitt
Date: Monday, Dec. 12
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Blue Jays finally jumped into the free agent market in a big way, landing right-hander Chris Bassitt on a three-year, $63 million deal pending a physical. Ken Rosenthal adds that the deal includes a limited no-trade clause allowing the pitcher to specify eight teams each season to which he cannot be traded. Bassitt’s $21 million AAV trails only Jacob deGrom (Rangers) and Justin Verlander (Mets) among free agent pitchers so far this offseason. Toronto will be expecting more of the same from the veteran, who was a reliable cog in the A’s rotation before being shipped to the Mets in March 2022.
BREAKING: Right-hander Chris Bassitt and the Toronto Blue Jays are in agreement on a three-year, $63 million contract, pending physical, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN. Story on Toronto making a big move and adding to its rotation, free at ESPN: https://t.co/aoqDXD69gp
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 12, 2022
Sean Manaea returning to Bay Area with Giants
Date: Monday, Dec. 12
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
San Francisco has agreed to a contract with the former A’s rotation stalwart. Manaea gets a two-year contract worth $25 million, Heyman reports. The pact includes an opt-out clause.
Sean Manaea to Giants. $25M, 2 years. Opt out.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 12, 2022
Oakland traded the 30-year-old Manaea to San Diego on April 3 as part of a roster purge. The left-hander did not fare that well with the Padres, pitching to a career-high 4.96 ERA (4.53 FIP) in 158 innings. He allowed a career-high 29 home runs.
Cardinals are ‘mystery team’ on Carlos Rodon
Date: Sunday, Dec. 11
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
Veteran left-hander Carlos Rodon has been connected with the Yankees, Red Sox, Rangers and several other teams as he reportedly seeks a deal of at least six years. Now, another suitor has been revealed, as Heyman reports the Cardinals are believed to be the “mystery team” in the mix for Rodon, who turned 30 on Saturday.
There’s a mystery team in on Rodon, and it’s believed to be the Cardinals (so maybe it’s not such a great mystery after all) #mysteryteam
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 11, 2022
Mets to sign Japanese pitching star Kodai Senga
Date: Saturday, Dec. 10
Source: Andy Martino, SNY
New York is throwing around more money in the offseason, this time snagging the 29-year-old Senga, one of the top starting pitchers in NPB over the past six seasons. Martino reports the deal is for five years and $75 million. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports the contract includes an opt-out clause after the third year.
Senga posted a 1.94 ERA and 156 strikeouts in 144 innings for Fukuoka in 2022. He joins Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, Carlos Carrasco and Jose Quintana in New York’s rotation.
Blue Jays sign former Gold Glover Kevin Kiermaier
Date: Saturday, Dec. 10
Source: Shi Davidi, Sportsnet
The Blue Jays are improving the outfield by adding former Rays outfielder Kevin Kiermaier. Kiermaier slashed .228/.281/.369 in 63 games in 2022, and is a three-time Gold Glove winner in center field.
A’s add Jace Peterson to infield mix
Date: Friday, Dec. 9
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
Oakland reportedly has agreed to a multiyear contract with the 32-year-old utilityman.
Jace Peterson A’s deal: $9.5M for two years
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 9, 2022
Brandon Nimmo stays in the Big Apple
Date: Thursday, Dec. 8
Source: Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman, New York Post; Jeff Passan, ESPN
With @JonHeyman we have learned, the Mets are in agreement with Brandon Nimmo to return 8-$162M
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 9, 2022
Outfielder Brandon Nimmo and the New York Mets are in agreement on an eight-year, $162 million contract, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN. The Mets keep their center fielder and the biggest payroll in baseball only gets bigger.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 9, 2022
Nimmo confirmed the reports Thursday night via Twitter:
#LGM! Glad to be back! Let’s go!
— Brandon Nimmo (@You_Found_Nimmo) December 9, 2022
Mets add David Robertson to bullpen
Date: Thursday, Dec. 8
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
Reliever David Robertson and the New York Mets are in agreement on a one-year, $10 million contract, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN.
First Brandon Nimmo. Now David Robertson. Mets just keep getting better.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 9, 2022
MLB Winter Meetings rumors, news, signings
Padres make splash with monster deal for Xander Bogaerts
Date: Thursday, Dec. 8
Source: Jeff Passan
Shortstop Xander Bogaerts and the San Diego Padres are in agreement on an 11-year, $280 million contract, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN. A monster contract and the Padres, after missing Trea Turner and Aaron Judge, get the longtime Red Sox shortstop.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 8, 2022
Major league source confirms: Bogaerts to SD for 11 and $280M. Wow! At the start of the winter meetings, some Sox officials were skeptical bidding would get to $200M. This blew it away. https://t.co/NWG2nDKNHi
— Alex Speier (@alexspeier) December 8, 2022
MORE: Where does Bogaerts’ deal with Padres rank among MLB shortstops?
Braves add Joe Jimenez to bullpen
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Atlanta Braves
The Braves swung a trade for the reliever, sending prospects Justyn-Henry Malloy and Jake Higginbotham to the Tigers. Jimenez had the best season of his career in 2022 and can become a free agent after the 2023 season.
#Braves acquire RHP Joe Jiménez: pic.twitter.com/VkFZGXIdhw
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) December 8, 2022
Red Sox add Japanese hitting star
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Red Sox bolstered their lineup by agreeing to a five-year, $90 million contract with outfielder Masataka Yoshida. Yoshida, 29, was an on-base machine for the Orix Buffaloes. Boston also had to pay a $15.4 million posting fee to land Yoshida’s rights, so their total commitment is north of $100 million.
BREAKING: Outfielder Masataka Yoshida and the Boston Red Sox are in agreement on a contract, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 7, 2022
Aledmys Diaz signs with Athletics
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Joel Sherman, New York Post
After winning the World Series with the Astros, Diaz is staying the AL West. The Athletics reportedly are signing him to a two-year deal worth around $14 million.
Aledmys Diaz and the A’s are in agreement pending physical on a 2-yr deal. In $14M range.
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 7, 2022
Willson Contreras reaches deal with Cardinals
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The longtime Cubs catcher has absconded for a division rival. The Cardinals signed Contreras to a five-year contract worth $87.5 million, plugging their hole at catcher after Yadier Molina’s retirement.
Catcher Willson Contreras and the St. Louis Cardinals are in agreement on a five-year, $87.5 million contract, a source familiar with the deal tells ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 7, 2022
Red Sox fill closer hole with Kenley Jansen
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
After going closer-by-committee in 2022, the Red Sox are adding a seasoned arm for the back of their bullpen for 2023 in Jansen. Passan reports the former Dodgers and Braves closer has agreed to a two-year, $32 million deal with Boston. Tanner Houck, Matt Barnes and John Schreiber led the last-place Sox in saves last season with eight apiece; Jansen led the National League with 41 for Atlanta.
Closer Kenley Jansen and the Boston Red Sox are in agreement on a two-year, $32 million contract, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 7, 2022
Mets add more rotation help with Jose Quintana
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon, The Athletic
The rotation holes left by the departures of Jacob deGrom, Taijuan Walker and, presumably, Chris Bassitt from Queens will be filled not only by Justin Verlander, but also Quintana. The Athletic reports the longtime White Sox and Cubs rotation fixture, who most recently impressed for the Cardinals at the end of the 2022 season, has agreed to a two-year, $26 million deal with the Mets.
Free-agent left-hander José Quintana in agreement with Mets on a two-year, $26M contract, pending physical, sources tell me and @WillSammon.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 7, 2022
Giants turn attention to high-profile shortstops
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Source: Bob Nightengale, USA Today
After missing out on Aaron Judge, the Giants will shift their focus to the star shortstops on the market, Nightengale reports. Carlos Correa, Xander Bogaerts and Dansby Swanson all are in line to sign hefty deals, albeit not as hefty as Judge’s.
The San Francisco Giants now will jump into the shortstop free agent pool where Carlos Correa and Xander Bogaerts and Danby Swanson await
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 7, 2022
Aaron Judge staying with Yankees on mega-deal
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 7
Sources: Jon Morosi, MLB Network; Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
The most anticipated news of the Hot Stove season dropped Wednesday morning with Morosi’s report that Judge had agreed to return to the Yankees. Rosenthal followed minutes later with the terms: nine years, $360 million. It’s the third-highest total value for a contract in MLB history, behind Mike Trout ($427 million) and Mookie Betts ($365 million), but it has a higher average annual value ($40 million) than either of those contracts.
Source confirms: Aaron Judge in agreement with Yankees, nine years, $360M. First: @JonMorosi.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 7, 2022
MORE: Details of Aaron Judge’s new Yankees deal and where it ranks all time
Cubs closing in on Jameson Taillon
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Sources: Mark Feinsand, MLB.com; Joel Sherman, New York Post
The Cubs and Taillon are trying to finalize a deal, according to Feinsand. Sherman reports the sides are meeting Tuesday night to try to reach the finish line.
Taillon had some ups and downs with the Yankees in 2022, but the veteran starter proved he could stay healthy and re-established his value. The Cubs have have been in the market for rotation arms.
The Cubs are closing in on a deal with Jameson Taillon, per source. @Ken_Rosenthal and @stephenjnesbitt were first to report that Chicago was making a push for the starter.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 7, 2022
Phillies add to bullpen
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
Dave Dombrowski made another addition to the Phillies’ pitching staff on Tuesday night, agreeing to a two-year, $15 million contract with reliever Matt Strahm. Strahm was a rare bright spot in the Red Sox’s bullpen this past season; now, he cashes in with a deal that will pay him $7.5 million annually. Strahm joins Taijuan Walker as additions to Philadelphia’s staff Tuesday.
Left-handed reliever Matt Strahm and the Philadelphia Phillies are finalizing a two-year, $15 million contract, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN. @Ken_Rosenthal and @MattGelb had them close.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 7, 2022
Phillies land Taijuan Walker to fill out rotation
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Sources: Robert Murray, FanSided; Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Phillies and Walker agreed to a four-year, $72 million contract, according to Heyman.
Walker is a major addition to a Phillies rotation that was thinned out by free agency. He’ll slot behind behind Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler. With Zach Eflin and Kyle Gibson headed elsewhere and Noah Syndergaard still on the market, Philadelphia nabs Walker for $18 million annually.
Taijuan Walker gets four years, $72M from Phillies, source says.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 7, 2022
Giants bolster outfield, but not with Aaron Judge
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Jeff Passan, ESPN
The Giants and former Mariners outfielder Mitch Haniger have agreed to a three-year, $43.5 million contract, according to Passan.
While Giants fans are awaiting a decision from Aaron Judge, Haniger provides much-needed power to San Francisco’s lineup after hitting 39 home runs during his last full season in 2021. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, signing Haniger does not prevent the Giants from adding Judge.
Outfielder Mitch Haniger and the San Francisco Giants are in agreement on a three-year, $43.5 million contract, sources tell ESPN.
Signing Haniger does not take the Giants out of the running for Aaron Judge. They have been pursuing both throughout free agency.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 7, 2022
Cubs add to outfield with one-time MVP Cody Bellinger
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
The Cubs won the Cody Bellinger sweepstakes, handing the 2019 NL MVP and 2017 NL Rookie of the Year a one-year, $17.5 million contract, as first reported by Heyman.
Bellinger is coming off a pair of difficult seasons at the plate for the Dodgers and was non-tendered in November, but he reportedly had a busy market. Agent Scott Boras said Bellinger he was seeking a one-year deal to prove himself, and the Cubs will give him that opportunity.
If Bellinger is able to regain some of his past form in Chicago’s lineup, one has to wonder whether he could be a midseason trade candidate.
Breaking: Bellinger to Cubs
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 6, 2022
Rangers add to rotation again with Andrew Heaney
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Sources: Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic; Alden Gonzalez, ESPN
After their big-money move for Jacob deGrom last week, the Rangers added another rotation piece in agreeing to a two-year deal with the left-handed Heaney, as Rosenthal first reported. The deal has a total base salary of $25 million but could rise to $37 million with incentives, according to Gonzalez. It includes an opt-out after the 2023 season.
Andrew Heaney is getting a two-year deal with an opt-out in the middle. It’s worth $25M through those two years but can increase to $37M with incentives.
— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) December 6, 2022
Josh Bell headed to Cleveland
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post; Bob Nightengale, USA Today
Josh Bell came up in the NL Central with the Pirates. After spending the last two seasons between Washington and San Diego, he’s headed to the AL Central on a two-year deal with the Guardians. Heyman reports the contract is worth $33 million and includes an opt-out after the 2023 season. Nightengale reports that salaries are split evenly at $16.5 million per season.
Josh Bell to Guardians. $33M, 2 years. Opt out.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 6, 2022
Pirates land veteran RHP Vince Velasquez
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Kiley McDaniel, ESPN; Robert Murray, FanSided
Pittsburgh has made a move to shore up its pitching staff, with Kiley McDaniel reporting the Pirates have a one-year deal with right-hander Vince Velasquez. The 30-year-old was a swingman for the White Sox last season, starting nine of his 27 appearances, and previously was a fixture in the Phillies’ rotation. Robert Murray reports Velasquez will make $3.15 million.
Justin Turner talking with Dodgers, others
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Jon Heyman, New York Post
Justin Turner could be in line for a reunion with the Dodgers, but he’s also speaking with the Marlins, Heyman reports.
Dodgers are among teams talking to longtime Dodger Justin Turner. Marlins also reached out.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 6, 2022
Yankees bolster bullpen
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 6
Source: Ken Rosenthal, The Athletic
The Yankees are bringing back a familiar face to strengthen their bullpen. Reliever Tommy Kahnle and the Yankees are in agreement on a two-year deal, per the Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. Jeff Passan reports the contract is worth $11.5 million.
Free-agent reliever Tommy Kahnle heading back to Yankees on two-year deal, source tells @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 6, 2022
Cubs front office given green light to spend
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: David Kaplan, ESPN Chicago
After a few lean offseasons, the Cubs may be major players this winter. According to David Kaplan, the Ricketts family have given Jed Hoyer the “green light” to spend money to fix the team. We’ll see what that amounts to.
Multiple MLB sources just told me Tom Ricketts and the Ricketts family have told team president Jed Hoyer that he has a green light to spend what he needs to spend to turn the team around. That lines up w/@GDubCub reporting that the #Cubs met offsite with Carlos Correa today.
— David Kaplan (@thekapman) December 6, 2022
AL West rivals could swing trade
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Mark Feinsand, MLB.com
The Astros are looking for catching reinforcements, and an AL West rival could provide a solution. Mark Feinsand reports that Sean Murphy could be a solution for Houston.
The Astros have emerged as a potential suitor for Sean Murphy, per source. Houston currently has Martin Maldonado as its catcher and has been connected to free agent Willson Contreras. Murphy, a former Gold Glove winner, is under club control through 2025.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 6, 2022
Trade market for Liam Hendriks starting to materialize
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Mark Feinsand, MLB.com
The White Sox may be fielding offers for reliever Liam Hendriks, per Mark Feinsand. Hendriks is due $14 million in 2023, as well as another $15 million in 2024 should he be traded. Hendriks also has a partial no-trade clause.
White Sox closer Liam Hendriks’ name has come up in trade talks with other clubs, per source. Hendriks has a limited no-trade clause that allows him to veto a deal to five clubs.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 6, 2022
Astros could strengthen backstop
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Dusty Baker, Astros manager
The Astros are coming off a season in which the catching position was among the worst in all of baseball. That could change in a hurry, according to Dusty Baker. Baker said that the team is in contact with Willson Contreras’ camp, this after rumors that the Astros were targeting him around the trade deadline.
Astros manager Dusty Baker said the club has interest in free agent catcher Willson Contreras and plans to meet with him.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) December 5, 2022
Blue Jays eyeing Bryan Reynolds
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Jon Morosi, MLB Network
The Blue Jays are a team to watch in the Bryan Reynolds market, according to Morosi. They’re looking to add some oomph to their outfield, but any offer would have to include one of their top two prospects to get a deal done.
The #BlueJays are a team to watch in the Bryan Reynolds market. They have interest in him and want to add an athletic switch hitter to their outfield. Based on strong industry interest, Jays would likely need to include Tiedemann or Martínez to have high offer. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 5, 2022
Mets eyeing Japanese starter Senga
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Jon Morosi, MLB Network
The Mets aren’t done trying to upgrade their rotation, according to Jon Morosi. With the Metropolitans signing Justin Verlander, they’re looking at Japanese starter Kodai Senga. Senga has posted a 2.59 ERA in 11 seasons in NPB. The Red Sox, Angels and Blue Jays are also expected to be in on Senga.
#Mets among teams showing continued interest in Kodai Senga, sources say. They aren’t close to done with rotation upgrades. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 5, 2022
Yankees sign GM Brian Cashman to new deal
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Some had thought, or hoped, that the Yankees might make a change atop their front office structure after yet another playoff disappointment, but it appears that won’t happen anytime soon. The team announced on the first full day of the Winter Meetings that GM Brian Cashman has signed a new deal through the 2026 season.
Cashman, 55, began working for the franchise as an intern in 1986 and has been in charge of baseball operations since February 1998. He’s the longest-serving GM in MLB.
The New York Yankees today announced that the club has re-signed Brian Cashman to a four-year contract through the 2026 season to continue serving as Senior Vice President and General Manager. pic.twitter.com/IPLP31HwVc
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) December 5, 2022
Trea Turner heads to Phillies on monster deal
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel, ESPN
The Trea Turner to the Phillies buzz that has pervaded for weeks turned out to have merit. The free agent shortstop has agreed to a deal with Philadelphia that will pay him $300 million over 11 years and includes a full no-trade clause, ESPN reports.
Source: Turner is getting 11 years, $300 million with a full no trade clause https://t.co/mvpDfFLrHb
— Kiley McDaniel (@kileymcd) December 5, 2022
Turner, 29, will return to the NL East and be reunited with former Nationals teammate Bryce Harper to terrorize Washington for years to come. He broke into the majors with the Nats in 2015 and played there until being traded to the Dodgers along with Max Scherzer in a July 2021 deadline deal. Turner was an All-Star in both seasons in LA and won the NL batting title in 2021.
Twins open to trading Luis Arraez
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Dan Hayes, The Athletic
Reigning American League batting champ Luis Arraez could be on the move this offseason. Dan Hayes reports the Twins are open to trading Arraez “in the right deal” as they look to bolster their starting rotation.
Hayes reports that the Rangers’ five-year, $185 million deal with Jacob deGrom has the Twins’ front office thinking they’ll have better luck landing a top-end starting pitcher via trade than the open market, and the 25-year-old Arraez could be their most valuable chip.
Sources: In their constant search for top-tier pitching, the #MNTwins have discussed trading batting champ Luis Arraez.https://t.co/JOR6xn9grY
— DanHayesMLB (@DanHayesMLB) December 5, 2022
Justin Verlander signing with Mets
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
Source: Andy Martino, SNY
Justin Verlander is headed to Queens. The reigning AL Cy Young winner, who will turn 40 during spring training, has a two-year deal with the Mets that includes a vesting option for a third season, Andy Martino of SNY first reported.
The deal is worth at least $86 million and includes a full no-trade clause, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
Verlander details #mets
$43.3M per year
Full no trade
3rd year option: at $35M— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 5, 2022
Dodgers make Clayton Kershaw return official
Date: Monday, Dec. 5
The Dodgers officially announced Clayton Kershaw will be back next season. Robert Murray of FanSided reported the veteran lefty will make $20 million in 2023, including a $5 million signing bonus.
22’s here to stay. Welcome back, @ClaytonKersh22! pic.twitter.com/FGaKuBO15b
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) December 5, 2022
Yankees are in on Bryan Reynolds
Date: Sunday, Dec. 4
Source: Jason Mackey, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The Yankees are looking to bolster the outfield, and Pirates outfielder Bryan Reynolds could be an option for them, according to Jason Mackey.
Reynolds recently requested a trade despite signing a two-year deal with Pittsburgh around the trade deadline this year, but he has two years of arbitration eligibility beyond 2023, making him for a very intriguing, controllable and productive player on the market.
First tidbit from the lobby, per an industry source, is that the Yankees are “very much” in on Bryan Reynolds. “They’re on it.” … Not exactly breaking news that there’s significant interest in the Pirates outfielder.
— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) December 5, 2022
Athletics could be close to dealing Sean Murphy
Date: Sunday, Dec. 4
Source: Mark Feinsand, MLB.com
The Athletics appear ready to resume their roster blowup, this time shipping off their No. 1 catcher. Feinsand reports that mulitple teams are in the hunt for the 28-year-old Murphy but the Braves are not one of them, updating an earlier report.
Update on Sean Murphy: it still appears Oakland is close to a trade, but the Braves are NOT going to be the acquiring team, per source. The Cardinals, Rays, Guardians and Red Sox are among the teams that have been connected to Murphy in recent weeks.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) December 4, 2022
Murphy hit a career-high 18 home runs for Oakland in 2022, a key component in his 122 wRC+. He won a Gold Glove in 2021.
MLB free agency news on signings, trades (pre-Winter Meetings)
(All times Eastern)
Dec. 3
12:34 p.m.: The Orioles are now getting involved, signing right-handed pitcher Kyle Gibson to a one-year deal. Gibson, 35, was 10-8 with a 5.05 ERA for the Phillies last season. The Orioles have been looking for starting arms.
Right-hander Kyle Gibson and the Baltimore Orioles are in agreement on a contract, pending physical, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN.
The Orioles have targeted pitching this winter, and the 35-year-old Gibson is the first domino. They should be in play for other arms.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 3, 2022
Dec. 2
8:02 p.m.: In a seismic move, the Rangers landed former Mets ace Jacob deGrom with a five-year, $185 million deal that has a conditional sixth year that would bring the value of the pact up to $222 million. The Rangers are clearly hoping they’re building something.
BREAKING: Right-hander Jacob deGrom has signed a five-year, $185 million contract with the Texas Rangers, sources tell ESPN. Physical is passed. Deal is done. Includes conditional sixth-year option that would take total deal to $222 million. Full no-trade clause. A massive haul.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 3, 2022
4:15 p.m.: Jesse Winker is headed back to the NL Central. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported that the Mariners have traded Winker and Abraham Toro to the Brewers in exchange for second baseman Kolten Wong.
Mariners acquiring Kolten Wong from Brewers for Jesse Winker and Abraham Toro, sources tell @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 2, 2022
Dec. 1
7 p.m.: The Rays have added another possible starter in Zach Eflin, whom Phillies manager Rob Thomson used out of the bullpen late last season. Intriguingly, Tampa Bay has agreed to a three-year contract worth $40 million for the 28-year-old right-hander.
Zach Eflin is in agreement with the #Rays as @JeffPassan reported. It is a 3 yr, $40M deal
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 2, 2022
Nov. 29
10:30 a.m.: The Nationals have cast themselves into the free agency fray, signing former Tigers corner infielder Jeimer Candelario. Candelario was second among free-agent third basemen in WAR, trailing only Justin Turner.
Source: Former #Tigers third baseman Jeimer Candelario and the Nationals are in agreement on a one-year contract.
— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) November 29, 2022
Nov. 28
2 p.m.: The defending champion Astros are reloading, signing first baseman Jose Abreu to a reported three-year contract. The Trey Mancini trade didn’t pan out and Yuli Gurriel isn’t getting any younger, so Abreu is a great addition for the Astros.
The Houston #Astros are finalizing a deal for free-agent first baseman Jose Abreu.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 28, 2022
Nov. 22
10:30 p.m.: The Angels added a veteran bat via trade, acquiring outfielder Hunter Renfroe from the Brewers for three pitchers. The 30-year-old Renfroe will be a free agent after the 2023 season.
OFFICIAL: The Angels today acquired OF Hunter Renfroe from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for RHP Janson Junk, RHP Elvis Peguero and minor league LHP Adam Seminaris. pic.twitter.com/YmVUc2TTS1
— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) November 23, 2022
Nov. 18
9:45 p.m.: Seventy-seven players became free agents Friday after not being tendered contracts, per MLB.com. The full list, by club:
Angels: P Jhonathan Diaz, P Touki Toussaint, P Nash Walters, P Rob Zastryzny
Astros: RHP Josh James
Athletics: P Deolis Guerra, P Jared Koenig, IF David MacKinnon
Blue Jays: IF Vinny Capra, OF Raimel Tapia, OF Bradley Zimmer
Braves: P Silvino Bracho, OF Guillermo Heredia, P Alan Rangel, P Jackson Stephens, P Brooks Wilson
Brewers: P Trevor Gott, P Jandel Gustave, P Luis Perdomo
Cardinals: P Alex Reyes, OF Ben Deluzio
Cubs: P Brailyn Marquez, P Alexander Vizcaíno, OF Rafael Ortega
Diamondbacks: P Reyes Moronta
Dodgers: OF Cody Bellinger, IF Edwin Rios, IF/OF Luke Williams
Giants: P Samuel Delaplane, P Jarlín García, P Mauricio Llovera, C Dom Núñez, P Drew Strotman, C Meibrys Viloria, IF/OF Jason Vosler, IF/OF Donnie Walton, IF Colton Welker, P Alex Young
Guardians: P/OF Anthony Gose, C Luke Maile
Mariners: P Luke Weaver, C Luis Torrens, C Brian O’Keefe
Marlins: 3B/OF Brian Anderson, P Nick Neidert
Mets: 1B/OF Dominic Smith, P Sean Reid-Foley
Nationals: P Erick Fedde, P Tommy Romero, 1B/DH Luke Voit
Padres: C Jorge Alfaro, P Efraín Contreras
Rangers: P Nick Snyder
Rays: P Ryan Yarbrough
Red Sox: OF Franchy Cordero, IF Yu Chang
Reds: OF Aristides Aquino, OF Allan Cerda, P Kyle Dowdy, P Daniel Duarte, P Jeff Hoffman, P Derek Law, P Jared Solomon, P Art Warren
Rockies: OF/IF Garret Hampson
Royals: P Jake Brentz, P Nate Webb
Tigers: 3B Jeimer Candelario, IF Brendan Davis, IF Harold Castro, IF Willi Castro, C Michael Papierski, P Miguel Diaz, P Kyle Funkhouser
White Sox: OF Adam Engel, OF Mark Payton, IF Danny Mendick
9:30 p.m.: The Brewers acquired right-handed reliever Javy Guerra from the Rays, Adam McCalvy of MLB.com reported.
9:25 p.m.: The Reds made a corresponding move after the Kyle Farmer trade by acquiring infielder Kevin Newman from the NL Central-rival Pirates. Ken Rosenthal and Rob Biertempfel of The Athletic reported the deal. Newman was the Bucs’ primary shortstop until the arrival of Oneil Cruz. Biertempfel later reported that the Pirates are acquiring right-handed reliever Dauri Moreta, who appeared in 35 games for Cincinnati last season.
7:40 p.m.: The Twins are acquiring infielder Kyle Farmer from the Reds, Ken Rosenthal and Dan Hayes of The Athletic reported.
Twins acquiring Kyle Farmer from Reds, pending a review of medical records, sources tell me and @DanHayesMLB.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) November 19, 2022
The Reds later announced that they had acquired minor league pitcher Casey Legumina in exchange for Farmer.
It’s a corresponding move of sorts. Minnesota dealt infielder Gio Urshela to the Angels earlier in the day.
Farmer, 32, was Cincinnati’s No. 1 shortstop the past two seasons after bouncing around the infield and catcher earlier in his career. He drove in a career-high 78 runs but mustered just a .701 OPS (90 OPS+) in 2022.
4:11 p.m.: The Angels announced they had acquired Gio Urshela from the Twins for Alejandro Hidalgo, a 19-year-old right-handed pitcher. Hidalgo finished his season in Class-A with a 4.62 ERA in 39 innings (10 starts) with 58 strikeouts and 19 walks. Urshela enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career in 2022, posting a .285/.338/.429 slash line with 13 home runs, a 7.4 percent walk rate and 17.4 percent strikeout rate. His 2.4 fWAR was the second-highest of his career (2.8 fWAR in 2019).
OFFICIAL: the Angels have acquired INF Gio Urshela from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for minor league RHP Alejandro Hidalgo. pic.twitter.com/fle2bi3fNS
— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) November 18, 2022
11:35 a.m.: Elieser Hernandez, who was designated for assignment by the Marlins, has been traded to the Mets with fellow pitcher Jeff Brigham, per the New York Post’s Mike Puma. Hernandez struggled in 2022 with a 6.35 ERA in 62 1/3 innings, but he has pitched well in the past, owning a 3.84 ERA in 17 starts between 2020 and 2021 with 87 strikeouts and 19 walks in 77 1/3 innings of work.
Mets are acquiring RHP Elieser Hernandez and reliever Jeff Brigham from the Marlins for minor league pitcher Franklin Sanchez.
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) November 18, 2022
Nov. 17
6:49 p.m.: Because it wouldn’t be Hot Stove season without more Jerry Dipoto: The Mariners are sending outfielder Kyle Lewis (2020 AL Rookie of the Year) to the Diamondbacks for Cooper Hummel. Hummel split time between outfield and catcher in 2022, his rookie season.
Welcome to the #Dbacks, Kyle!
The 2020 AL Rookie of the Year is Arizona bound. pic.twitter.com/GxLkqmYz3z
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) November 18, 2022
Nov. 16
10:38 a.m.: A small surprise: The Blue Jays are trading All-Star outfielder Teoscar Hernandez to the Mariners. In return, the Blue Jays are getting pitchers Erik Swanson and Adam Macko.
The stove is hot 🔥@TeoscarH is coming to the Emerald City! We’ve acquired the All-Star outfielder from the @BlueJays in exchange for RHP Erik Swanson and minor league LHP Adam Macko. #SeaUsRise
🔗 https://t.co/ndzl8BrCb0 pic.twitter.com/6wmFSpR7VH
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) November 16, 2022
8:35 a.m.: A week after opting out of his deal with San Diego, right-hander Nick Martinez has reached an agreement to remain with the Padres on a three-year contract, according to multiple reports. Jon Heyman of the New York Post says Martinez’s deal is worth $26 million with the potential for more in incentives.
Nov. 15
8:05 p.m.: The Guardians traded infielder Nolan Jones to the Rockies for infield prospect Juan Brito. Additionally, Cleveland traded right-hander Carlos Vargas to Arizona for right-hander Ross Carver, according to team announcements.
6:09 p.m.: The Rays made several moves Tuesday.
The Tampa Bay Rays made three trades today, per sources:
– IF Xavier Edwards and RHP JT Chargois to the Marlins for RHP Santiago Suárez and RHP Marcus Johnson.
– IF Brett Wisely to the Giants for OF Tristan Peters.
– OF Miles Mastrobuoni to the Cubs for RHP Alfredo Zárraga— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 15, 2022
4:40 p.m.: The Rangers announced they have sent reliever Dennis Santana to the Braves for cash considerations. Santana finished the 2022 season with a 5.22 ERA in 58 2/3 innings, though he was electric over the first 31 1/3 innings, owning a 1.44 ERA with 23 strikeouts and only six walks.
4:29 p.m.: Anthony Rizzo might have turned down the Yankees’ qualifying offer, but it wasn’t long until he decided to come back. He signed a two-year deal to stay with the Yankees, earning $17 million per year that will include a $6 million buyout of an option for 2025.
Anthony Rizzo truly enjoyed being a Yankee, and getting $20 million a year to stay — $17 million each of the next two years, plus a $6 million buyout on a 2025 option — keeps him in the Bronx.
Worth noting: Rizzo has grown very close with Aaron Judge over the last two years.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 15, 2022
4:04 p.m.: Only two free agents decided to accept the qualifying offer this year: Giants outfielder Joc Pederson and Rangers starter Martin Perez, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. All others turned down their respective offers.
Joc Pederson and Martin Perez are the only two players that accepted the qualifying offer, per source.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) November 15, 2022
4:04 p.m.: Tyler Anderson is staying in SoCal, but he’s changing LA teams. The former Dodgers southpaw is joining the Angels on a three-year deal worth $39 million, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Anderson had the best season of his career, pitching to a 2.57 ERA in 178 2/3 innings with an fWAR of 4.0.
Tyler Anderson’s deal is for three years and expected to be in the $39 million range, sources tell ESPN.
He turned down the one-year, $19.65 million deal with the Dodgers to join Los Angeles. Angels will lose their 2nd-round pick while Dodgers get a pick after the 4th round.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 15, 2022
Nov. 12
9:51 a.m.: The Astros are bringing back 2021 midseason acquisition and key reliever Rafael Montero on a three-year, $34.5 million deal, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan. In 68.1 innings in 2022, he had a 2.37 ERA and 1.5 fWAR.
I have no idea if Twitter is going to be around today, tomorrow, next week, next year.
I love everyone here and want them to know that there’s a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency plan.
Rafael Montero is going back to the Astros for three years and $34.5 million, you monsters.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 12, 2022
Nov. 11
1:08 p.m.: The Dodgers and long-time ace Clayton Kershaw agreed to a second consecutive one-year deal, ensuring he will pitch through at least 2023.
Nov. 10
12:11 p.m.: The Rangers sent utility player Nick Solak to the Reds. Solak has a career slash line of .252/.327/.372 with 21 home runs and 19 stolen bases in 253 games, though he was limited to just 35 games in 2022.
The Rangers have traded INF/OF Nick Solak to the Reds for cash considerations.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) November 10, 2022
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