Major League Baseball Offseason: Rumor Mill Heats Up
As Major League Baseball’s offseason officially gets underway, teams are already busy strategizing and making moves, with the trade rumor mill spinning at full speed. Here’s a roundup of the most notable news from around the league.
Mets Exploring Trade Options for Starting Pitchers
The New York Mets are in discussions regarding their starting pitchers, including the notable right-hander Kodai Senga. Reports suggest they are considering trades with other teams, with the veteran pitchers Clay Holmes, Sean Manaea, and David Peterson also on the table. Senga, who has faced injury challenges, is intriguing due to his potential. At 32, he’s owed $14 million over the next two years—a reasonable figure for teams exploring pitching depth. The young righty Nolan McLean, however, may be off-limits unless a blockbuster trade emerges.
Tatsuya Imai: A New Pitching Prospect from Japan
In noteworthy signing news, Tatsuya Imai, a promising 27-year-old right-hander, has been posted by the Saitama Seibu Lions for MLB consideration. Ranked as the 12th-best free agent by CBS Sports, Imai compiled an impressive 1.92 ERA last season, showcasing mid-90s velocity and a unique forkball-like slider. His journey in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) has been marked by improvement, particularly in command, making him a potential No. 3 starter for any MLB team willing to take a chance.
Giants Aim to Fortify Pitching Staff
The San Francisco Giants, who recently hired former Tennessee Volunteers coach Tony Vitello as manager, are also looking to strengthen their pitching depth. After failing to reach the playoffs since 2021, general manager Zack Minasian has expressed the need for quality additions to their pitching staff, which ranked 10th in the majors for ERA. Despite the willingness to explore external options, the Giants are expected to be cautious with their budget, especially when it comes to long-term contracts exceeding $100 million.
White Sox’s Focus on Internal Development
The Chicago White Sox have confirmed they will not be pursuing top free agents this offseason. General manager Chris Getz stated that the organization is dedicated to developing their internal talent rather than investing in multi-year contracts for outside veterans. With a younger roster, highlighted by players like Colson Montgomery, the White Sox aim to build from within, reflecting a shift towards nurturing their emerging talent after struggling in past seasons.
Veteran Justin Turner Eager to Continue Career
Finally, veteran infielder Justin Turner has expressed his desire to continue playing in 2026. At 41, Turner had a challenging season with the Chicago Cubs, posting a .219 average, but was notably more productive against left-handed pitchers. His experience could prove valuable to teams looking for a seasoned presence as they navigate their rosters in the coming year.
As the offseason progresses, teams will continue to make critical decisions that could reshape their futures. Keep an eye on these developments as the landscape of Major League Baseball evolves.