Royals come out ahead in Brewers swap, netting Isaac Collins, Nick Mears for Angel Zerpa
The Brewers lose one of their top on-base hitters and a serviceable reliever and get only a reliever with a platoon split in return.
MLB
14th December 2025
Right-hander Dustin May, Cardinals agree to 1-year contract: Sources
May, who made 23 starts in 2025 between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox, should slot in at the top of the Cardinals’ rotation.
Sources: Yankees, Rosario agree to 1-year deal
The New York Yankees and utilityman Amed Rosario are in agreement on a one-year, $2.5 million contract, sources told ESPN on Saturday, reuniting the two sides after a brief and fruitful stint last season.
Sources: Cardinals agree to deal with RHP May
Right-hander Dustin May and the St. Louis Cardinals are in agreement on a free agent contract, pending a physical, sources told ESPN on Saturday.
Closer Kenley Jansen agrees to one-year deal with Tigers: Source
Jansen is 24 saves shy of becoming the third closer ever with 500.
Sources: Mets, IF Polanco agree on 2-year pact
The Mets and infielder Jorge Polanco have agreed on a two-year, $40 million contract, sources told ESPN. Polanco is expected to primarily play first base, replacing Pete Alonso, who left in free agency.
Jorge Polanco reportedly agrees to 2-year, $40 million deal with Mets
Jorge Polanco is heading across the country after he reportedly agreed to a two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Mets, according to multiple reports. The Mets plan to use Polanco mainly at first base and designated hitter.
Under pressure, can Mets, Padres line up on a trade that could help both clubs?
While neither Francisco Lindor nor Fernando Tatis Jr. are part of the talks, the teams are engaging in trade discussions.
Jorge Polanco agrees to 2-year, $40 million deal with the Mets: Sources
The 32-year-old will help fill a void created by Pete Alonso's departure from Queens.
13th December 2025
What is EBOO? Phillies star Bryce Harper's blood ozone treatment goes viral
The procedure involves drawing blood, treating it with a laser and ozone, and then reentering it into the body but is not FDA approved.
Sources: Rangers address needs with 3 signings
The Rangers agreed to deals with catcher Danny Jansen, left-hander Tyler Alexander and right-handed reliever Alexis Diaz, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan.
Angels' Carpino: Skaggs a 'drug addict' and 'dealer'
Angels president John Carpino closed the final day of testimony Friday in the Tyler Skaggs wrongful-death civil trial by asserting that the late pitcher was not a victim but a "drug addict and a drug dealer.".
Angels president John Carpino takes stand as testimony in Tyler Skaggs trial concludes
Carpino acknowledged that the team declined to pay out the remainder of Skaggs’ 2019 contract after his death.
Danny Jansen, Rangers agree to 2-year, $14.5 million deal: Sources
The Rangers had been looking for a catcher to pair with Kyle Higashioka.
The latest on the Mets' offseason, why Alonso beat Schwarber and more MLB notes
Plus details on Luis Robert's potential trade market, a possible destination for Pete Fairbanks and a next free agent to return from Japan.
O's Elias: Alonso 'the right player' to sign long term
The Orioles introduced Pete Alonso on Friday at Camden Yards after reaching a five-year, $155 million deal that dwarfed Baltimore's other signings over the past several years, when the team stuck mostly to short-term deals.
Diaz picked Dodgers because 'I'm looking to win'
At his introductory news conference with the Dodgers on Friday, Edwin Diaz said a desire "to win" was a big reason why he signed with L.A. over the Mets.
Blue Jays acquire right-hander Lee from Tigers
Right-hander Chase Lee was acquired by the Blue Jays from the Tigers on Friday for minor league left-hander Johan Simon.
5 big questions for the Padres: Can they add to their rotation and bolster their offense this winter?
For nearly the entirety of his tenure as president of baseball operations of the Padres, AJ Preller has ensured that San Diego is one of the most active teams in MLB when it comes to transactions, whether that means swinging major deals at the trade deadline or adding aggressively in free agency.
Blue Jays sign reliever Tyler Rogers to 3-year, $37M deal: Source
The Blue Jays hope reliever Tyler Rogers, known for his unique throwing motion, can help fortify their bullpen.
Blue Jays' shopping spree continues with reliever Tyler Rogers on 3-year, $37 million deal
The Toronto Blue Jays are spending like they want to reach the World Series again. The club has agreed to a three-year, $37 million deal with free-agent reliever Tyler Rogers, according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.
Edwin Díaz confirms he's bringing iconic Timmy Trumpet intro with him to Dodgers
Edwin Díaz is bringing one of baseball's most iconic entrances with him to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers introduced their new closer on Friday, three days after landing the former New York Mets star on a three-year, $69 million contract in free agency.
Source: Gray, Nats reach deal to avoid arbitration
Right-hander Josiah Gray and the Nationals avoided salary arbitration when they agreed Friday to a $1.35 million, one-year contract, a source told ESPN's Jeff Passan.
Pete Alonso Says “Good Morning, Baltimore", Joins the Orioles, What's Next for the Mets & Suarez Signs with Braves
Subscribe to Baseball Bar-B-CastApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeThe Polar Bear has gone extinct in Queens as career New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso has joined the Baltimore Orioles.
Royals agree to five-year extension with All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia: Source
Kansas City has now locked up the left side of its infield – Garcia and shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. – through at least 2030.
Sources: Royals keeping Garcia on five-year deal
The Royals have secured All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia on a multiyear contract extension, sources told ESPN.
Jays president Shapiro given new 5-year deal
Blue Jays president and CEO Mark Shapiro and Toronto agreed to a new five-year contract following the team's first American League pennant since 1993.
Maikel Garcia, Royals reportedly finalizing 5-year extension
Maikel Garcia and the Kansas City Royals are reportedly finalizing a five-year contract extension, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan. There is a club option for a sixth year featured in the deal. The total value of the extension has not been announced.
Maikel Garcia, Royals reportedly agree to 5-year, $57.5M contract extension
Maikel Garcia and the Kansas City Royals have reportedly agreed to a five-year, $57.5 million contract extension, according to MLB.com's Anne Rogers. There is a club option for a sixth year in the deal and escalators that could take the pact's total value to $85 million.
Tyler Skaggs wrongful death trial enters final day of testimony: Where things stand
The jury heard from a former MLB lawyer, ex-pitcher Matt Harvey, an addiction expert and others as testimony wound down this week.
Who is willing to spend to keep up with the Dodgers and Blue Jays this winter?
Baseball insiders were abuzz over L.A. and Toronto at this week's winter meetings.
As responsibilities evolve, MLB manager salaries still lag behind top coaches in other sports
From new hires to award winners, big paydays continue to allude most skippers. What gives?.
Seven things we learned about the Astros at the Winter Meetings
Though both men intend to “retire here,” the future of general manager Dana Brown and manager Joe Espada beyond this season is murky.
12th December 2025
Is baseball ready for Pete Rose in the Hall of Fame? Surveying people in the game
We asked prominent people in the sport whether Rose belongs in the Hall of Fame. The answers were as conflicted as you would expect.
Winter Meetings takeaways: Mets mess, trade talks heating up, Dodgers dominance
Why big trades could be coming soon and why the Pirates’ free-agent effort was eye wash.
Sources: Cubs, lefty reliever Milner agree to deal
Free agent left-handed reliever Hoby Milner is in agreement with the Chicago Cubs on a one-year, $3.75 million contract, sources confirmed to ESPN.
Braves add reliever Robert Suarez to bullpen as setup man, backup closer
Suarez has a unique path as a hard-throwing late bloomer, and he leveraged that into a three-year deal.
MLB's returning to NBC, and the network wants to air baseball beyond its 3-year deal
As part of its MLB partnership, NBC will feature an on-site pregame show for "Sunday Night Baseball.".
Former Padres closer Suarez signs with Braves
Former Padres closer Robert Suarez has signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Atlanta Braves, the team announced Thursday.
Sources: A's, Leiter Jr. agree to 1-year, $3M deal
Free agent reliever Mark Leiter Jr is in agreement on a 1-year contract with the A's, sources told ESPN.
Robert Suarez, Braves agree to a 3-year, $45 million contract
The Atlanta Braves and closer Robert Suarez have agreed to a three-year, $45 million deal, the team announced Thursday. According to the Braves, Suarez will earn $13 million next season and $16 million in each of the final two years of the contract.
Cleanup on aisle Queens. Plus: The Schwarb-stakes are over
Welcome to The Windup, The Athletic's MLB newsletter.
Mets owner Steve Cohen says he understands why fans are frustrated after losing Pete Alonso, Edwin Díaz
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen's ownership tenure has been defined by one thing: A willingness to spend in order to keep the Mets competitive.
MLB Winter Meetings still hold value in texting era, but may be canceled for 2026
The winter meetings are MLB's annual showcase event. But labor issues may mean it does not return next winter.
MLB winter meetings winners, losers and questions
Now that the dust has settled in Orlando, we debate our favorite (and least favorite) moves of the week.
11th December 2025
Day 3 of the MLB Winter Meetings: the Polar Bear's move caps the week
A relatively quiet Winter Meetings wraps up with one major signing on Wednesday.
This Week in Sports Trivia: December 11, 2025
How closely were you following the sports news this week? Find out and test your knowledge by taking The Athletic's weekly quiz.
Emmanuel Clase's MLB fate and the demise of a historic, nearly 50-year trade tree
A star-filled trade tree going back nearly 50 years helped bring Emmanuel Clase to the Guardians, but the end of the line appears near.
5 big questions for the Mets: With Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz on their way out, what's the plan in Queens?
The Polar Bear is heading south. Are the Mets next? Free-agent first baseman Pete Alonso, the New York Mets’ franchise leader in home runs, has agreed to a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles.
Braves sign vet OF Yastrzemski to 2-year deal
Mike Yastrzemski's deal with Atlanta is worth at least $23 million and includes a team option for 2028.
Mike Yastrzemski, Braves ink 2-year, $23 million contract
Yastrzemski comes from a Hall of Fame bloodline, but he's made his own name as a righty-mashing corner outfielder.
A.J. Preller says Fernando Tatis Jr. is untouchable, even with Padres' aims unclear
Despite all the Padres’ private and public messaging, Preller said other teams have not stopped asking about Tatis.
MLB winter meetings: What's the latest on the trade markets for Edward Cabrera, Sandy Alcantara and CJ Abrams?
ORLANDO, Fla. — The high-leverage reliever market has moved quickly over the past week, and after the signings of Ryan Helsley, Devin Williams and Edwin Díaz, teams still looking for relief help have been forced to pivot. One of the arms who could benefit from that is right-hander Pete Fairbanks.
Yankees, Red Sox, Giants among teams interested in Brewers' Freddy Peralta: Sources
One Brewers official said “lots of teams” are calling about Peralta, terming it “a good week.”.
In quest to add thump, Twins exploring free-agent first base market: Sources
The team’s interest in adding a first baseman comes several days after the Twins front office confirmed they don’t plan to trade key pieces.
Pete Alonso finds perfect fit with Orioles, who need his right-handed power
The Orioles needed right-handed power and get it with Alonso. Mets fans will miss the star slugger but the team has avenues to replace him.
What to make of the Mets losing Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz on back-to-back days
Losing two faces of the franchise to free agency might feel like a gut punch, but is it a disaster for the Mets or part of a larger plan?.
Joe Buck joins father, wins HOF's Frick Award
Broadcaster Joe Buck becomes the 50th recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award, joining his father as the only father-son duo honored by the Hall of Fame.
Rule 5: Yanks pick Winquest, Rockies get Petit
The Yankees made their first selection in a Rule 5 draft since 2011 on Wednesday, taking right-hander Cade Winquest from the Cardinals. The Rockies took RJ Petit, a 6-foot-8 reliever, with the first pick from the Tigers.
The Mets' core is no more. And now their front office needs to deliver
Edwin Díaz and Pete Alonso were both Mets stalwarts. Now they've signed elsewhere in back-to-back days.
Fallout of Edwin Díaz Dashing to the Dodgers, Scott Boras Holds Court at the Winter Meetings & White Sox Win Big
Subscribe to Baseball Bar-B-CastApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeReactions are still coming in following the shocking news of Edwin Díaz leaving the New York Mets after six seasons and joining the reigning back-to-back champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
With Pete Alonso signing, Orioles prove they're ready to be bold
The move sends a message that Baltimore's historically cautious front office is willing take a calculate risk and spend enough to win.
Mets did not make an offer to Pete Alonso before he agreed to Orioles deal: Sources
The Mets held some interest in bringing Alonso back but were uncomfortable with matching the lengths of what he got.
Joe Buck to join National Baseball Hall of Fame as Ford C. Frick winner
Buck began his major-league broadcasting career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1991 and quickly became a fixture on national games.
Orioles agree to 5-year deal with slugger Alonso
First baseman Pete Alonso and the Orioles have agreed to a five-year contract, the team announced Thursday.
Orioles to sign Pete Alonso after missing on slugger Kyle Schwarber: Sources
The Orioles missed out on signing Schwarber to a similar amount of money that they offered Alonso.
Pete Alonso reportedly agrees to 5-year, $155 million deal with Orioles after betting on himself in 2025
Pete Alonso bet on himself in 2025, and it paid off in a major way. Alonso reportedly agreed to a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday, ESPN's Jeff Passan reported.
Pete Alonso agrees to 5-year, $155 million deal with Orioles after betting on himself in 2025
Pete Alonso bet on himself in 2025, and it paid off in a major way. Alonso agreed to a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, the team announced Thursday. ESPN's Jeff Passan reported the deal Wednesday.
Joe Buck honored by baseball HOF as 2026 Frick Award winner
Longtime play-by-play man Joe Buck has been announced as the 2026 recipient of the Ford C. Frick Award, which is given by the baseball Hall of Fame for excellence in broadcasting. Buck and his dad Jack are now the only father-son duo to win the Frick Award. Jack Buck, who worked St.
Brian Cashman on Yankees' lack of moves at Winter Meetings: 'I haven’t accomplished anything'
Last year at this time, the Yankees were in a holding pattern as they waited on Juan Soto. That's not the case this winter.
Minor-league rule change experiment could eliminate hitter timeouts: Sources
MLB is considering a rule change to eliminate hitter timeouts entirely, or reduce their length, in three Low-A minor leagues next year.
10th December 2025
MLB's offseason finally clicks on with multiple signings, plus two buzzer-beaters
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What we're hearing about the Braves, Reds and Blue Jays as MLB's Winter Meetings continue
Why Atlanta's position when considering free agents who rejected qualifying offers is different, potential Reds trade targets and more.
Day 2 of the MLB Winter Meetings: Schwarber and Diaz sign, Boras holds court and drops hints
While the Dodgers and Phillies made major signings, the Diamondbacks and Mets are reportedly dangling All-Stars for trade.
Sources: Tigers give Finnegan 2-year, $19M pact
Kyle Finnegan, 34, and the Tigers are in agreement on a two-year, $19 million contract, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan on Tuesday, confirming a report. Detroit keeps a key bullpen piece as it seeks a third straight playoff appearance.
TV drama on gambling scandal surrounding Shohei Ohtani's ex-interpreter in development
The Lionsgate TV project will focus on Ippei Mizuhara's gambling scandal, which led to his firing by the Dodgers.
Kyle Schwarber among 4 new players announced for USA's World Baseball Classic roster on same day he secures $150M deal
Tuesday was a good day to be Kyle Schwarber. The Philadelphia slugger agreed to a five-year, $150 million contract to remain with the Phillies. And he was announced as one of four new players named to USA's World Baseball Classic team.
Nothing can be ruled out with Dodgers, including another blockbuster move
As Mark Walter said after his team's latest World Series title: "(The front office) makes all the decisions. I just tell them yes.".
Blue Jays' Shane Bieber could return for Opening Day after forearm fatigue
It’s not clear if the ailment caused Bieber to pick up his player option and avoid the unknowns of free agency.
Sources: Pirates, LHP Soto agree to 1-year deal
Two-time All-Star left-hander Gregory Soto agreed with the Pirates on a one-year, $7.75 million deal, sources told ESPN.
Murphy says Peralta 'due to be a wealthy man'
Brewers manager Pat Murphy knows the business side of baseball means he could lose ace pitcher Freddy Peralta this winter.
Witnesses offer conflicting testimony in Skaggs trial
Jurors heard conflicting testimony from two key witnesses Tuesday regarding the Angels' culpability and prior knowledge of drug use in the wrongful death lawsuit against the team by the family of deceased pitcher Tyler Skaggs.
MLB Draft: Lottery delivers shakeup after White Sox at No. 1; what does it mean for next year's draft class?
ORLANDO, Fla. — MLB held its fourth draft lottery on Tuesday at the winter meetings, with the results revealing that the Chicago White Sox hold the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, scheduled to begin Saturday, July 11, in Philadelphia in conjunction with All-Star week next summer.
Trade talks for Marlins starter Edward Cabrera heat up, with Orioles in the mix: Sources
Cabrera, 27, is under club control for three more seasons.
Dodgers' signing of Edwin Díaz hit like a shock, but spending was no surprise
With the addition of Díaz, the Dodgers have now spent a combined $141 million on closers over the past two winters.
The Blue Jays' championship window is open, and they're barreling through
“When you feel like you have one,” Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins said, “you want to lean into it.”.
Chicago White Sox land No. 1 pick in the 2026 MLB Draft
The White Sox secured just their third No. 1 pick in the MLB Draft in club history. The Giants made the biggest jump, going from 15 to four.
Predicting the top 5 picks in the 2026 MLB draft after White Sox win lottery
With Chicago landing the No. 1 overall pick for next summer, let's see how the start of the first round could go down.
Kyle Schwarber: A unique contract for a unique player — and Phillies legend in the making
Why has there never been a contract like this? Possibly because it’s practically impossible to find another player quite like this.
Mets' Stearns: Williams deal impacted Diaz pursuit
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns acknowledged the team's signing of Devin Williams earlier this month impacted its pursuit of incumbent All-Star closer Edwin Diaz, who agreed to a deal with the Dodgers on Tuesday.
Jays won't blame Kiner-Falefa for Game 7 loss
Speaking at the MLB winter meetings on Tuesday, Toronto manager John Schneider illustrated the Blue Jays' loss in Game 7 of the World Series, as well as the blame surrounding Isiah Kiner-Falefa, after he was thrown out at the plate in the ninth inning.
White Sox win draft lottery, will pick 1st in 2026
The White Sox, who had the best odds to win the 2026 MLB draft lottery, will pick first in next summer's draft, followed by the Rays at No. 2 and the Twins at No. 3.
U.S. adds to WBC roster; Trout question remains
Mike Trout, the cornerstone of Team USA's 2023 World Baseball Classic run, is still under consideration for the roster for the 2026 tournament amid recent injury concerns.
Angels acquire infielder Grissom from Red Sox
The Angels acquired infielder Vaughn Grissom in a trade with the Red Sox on Tuesday in return for minor league outfielder Isaiah Jackson.
MLB Draft lottery: White Sox win No. 1 overall pick in 2026
The Chicago White Sox struggled in 2025, but help is on the way. After going 60-102 last year, Chicago won the MLB Draft lottery on Tuesday, earning the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.
Venezuela's WBC team tries to prep for baseball amid political turmoil: 'We're not bad people'
“We’re good people. We’re noble. We’re humble people. Just let us be happy. That’s all,” said Venezuela manager Omar Lopez.
Inside the Phillies' reunion with Kyle Schwarber, their $150M slugger who sets the standard
The agreement might have been a fait accompli, sources said. But it was the most important offseason item for the Phillies to address.
A former MLB general manager is now an agent — to coaches and execs, who have fewer options
To Scott Boras, MLB coaches “are the most underpaid coaching category in professional sports.”.
By inking Edwin Diaz to record deal, Dodgers address their only weakness, send Mets back to drawing board
ORLANDO, Fla. — There were some in the industry who believed the Dodgers would be dormant this week at the MLB winter meetings. But the thing about the reigning World Series champs is that when they decide to push their chips in, they do it big.
