After a failed Phillies pursuit of Bo Bichette, now what?
The Phillies were offering Bichette seven years and somewhere in the range of $190M to $200M. He chose a shorter-term deal with the Mets.
MLB
17th January 2026
Inside the Mets' stunning pivot to Bo Bichette
The Mets envision Bichette as an elite clubhouse presence: "Exactly the type of guy we want on our team.".
Dodgers leverage winning culture, creative contracts to land Kyle Tucker, other top free agents
The Dodgers don't just have money to throw at free agents. They offer a chance for them to win titles, get paid and re-enter the market.
2026 World Series odds: Kyle Tucker signing puts Dodgers on a new level of favorites
Kyle Tucker signing with the Dodgers did not change who the favorite was, but did lead to some absurd odds in the Dodgers' favor.
Phillies reportedly re-signing catcher J.T. Realmuto to 3-year, $45 million deal after Mets land Bo Bichette
The Philadelphia Phillies have reached an agreement to re-sign catcher J.T. Realmuto to a three-year, $45 million deal, according to multiplereports Friday. A three-time All-Star, Realmuto became a free agent this offseason.
Phillies to re-sign J.T. Realmuto to 3-year deal after missing out on Bo Bichette: Sources
Realmuto was the best-available catcher in free agency, but he'll turn 35 in March and is coming off one of his worst offensive seasons.
Sources: Mets, Bichette reach 3-year, $126M deal
After missing out on Kyle Tucker, the Mets have agreed to a three-year, $126 million contract with Bo Bichette, sources confirmed to ESPN.
Lowe to Angels, Lux to Rays in three-team trade
The Rays have sent outfielder Josh Lowe to the Angels as part of a three-team trade in which left-handed reliever Brock Burke went from Los Angeles to Cincinnati and infielder Gavin Lux moved from Cincinnati to Tampa Bay.
Mets to sign Bo Bichette to 3-year deal in stunning move: Sources
The move comes roughly 12 hours after the Mets missed out on Kyle Tucker.
Bo Bichette reportedly agrees to 3-year, $126 million deal with the Mets
Bo Bichette entered his walk year with one goal in mind: To prove he could still be an elite hitter after an injury-riddled 2024. He accomplished that goal last season and was rewarded handsomely for it on Friday.
How 2026 Dodgers compare to some of baseball's other 'superteams'
The Los Angeles Dodgers were already a "superteam" before they reportedly agreed to a four-year, $240 million contract with Kyle Tucker.
Dodgers’ splurge on Tucker will increase calls for a salary cap, but MLB needs other fixes
The star outfielder's four-year deal with the team includes a record average annual value of $57.1 million.
Kyle Tucker's contract allows the Dodgers to capitalize on their dynasty run
Concern over Tommy Edman's surgery recovery might have given the Dodgers more incentive to land Tucker.
Can the Dodgers spend in perpetuity? They aren't stopping to avoid 'the cliff'
Kyle Tucker represented a perfect solution to the Dodgers’ needs, for now and the future.
How will latest moves rock the NL East? Updates on Mets, Phillies, Braves, Marlins, Nats
Here is what's next for one of baseball's most dynamic divisions.
16th January 2026
The Cubs are back to being a big-market team focused on winning after Alex Bregman signing
Bregman's whole deal is winning games, and it’s why the Cubs felt comfortable investing $175 million in a third baseman in his early 30s.
The Dodgers are building the Death Star, plus another basketball gambling scandal
The Pulse Newsletter ???? | This is The Athletic’s daily sports newsletter. Sign up here to receive The Pulse directly in your inbox. Good morning! We’re talking about eye-popping numbers in two ways today.
A six-pack on my Hall of Fame ballot, but looking forward to another round
The six who got my vote are hardly perfect candidates, but their positives swayed me to their side.
Why Kyle Tucker didn't get the long-term contract many expected
Tucker got paid, but he didn't get as many years in his deal as many predicted he'd receive at the start of the offseason.
Willie, Mickey and the Duke — and no one else. Why has the Hall of Fame ignored centerfielders?
Since Willie Mays arrived 75 years ago, only two Hall of Fame center fielders have debuted since. What happened to the iconic position?.
Kyle Tucker Goes to the Dodgers, Red Sox Bring In Ranger Suárez and the Yankees & Diamondbacks Make Trades
Subscribe to Baseball Bar-B-CastApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeThe Los Angeles Dodgers did it again. The defending back-to-back World Series champions have had yet another big-time offseason.
Here's how big the Dodgers' payroll is about to get after landing Kyle Tucker
The Los Angeles Dodgers were the two-time defending World Series champions and the most expensive team in MLB history. And then they landed Kyle Tucker.
How do the Mets pivot after losing out on Kyle Tucker to the Dodgers?
The Mets have a variety of ways to pivot, though none are as glamorous as adding Tucker to their lineup.
Rays, Angels, Reds trade analysis: A 3-team deal that works for everyone
This is a deal in which each team should have better rosters for the trade.
Kyle Tucker signs with the Dodgers: Everything you need to know
From Tucker's consistent rise to the best remaining free agents, here's the background and impact of his megadeal with the Dodgers.
Giants sign Venezuelan SS Hernandez to $5M deal
The Giants agreed to a deal with 17-year-old Venezuelan shortstop Luis Hernandez on Thursday, the first day of the 2026 international signing period.
Dodgers strike again, land Tucker, sources say
The World Series champion Dodgers added another big bat to an already-potent lineup Thursday night, agreeing to a four-year, $240 million deal with prized free agent Kyle Tucker, sources told ESPN.
Josh Lowe traded from Rays to Angels in 3-team deal with Reds involving Gavin Lux, Brock Burke
The Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Angels completed a three-team trade Thursday, as reported by ESPN's Jeff Passan.
What Kyle Tucker's signing means for the Dodgers – and the Blue Jays and Mets
While the Dodgers get to add Tucker to their arsenal, the runners-up in his sweepstakes now must figure out alternative plans.
Dodgers, Kyle Tucker agree to deal, add No. 1 free agent to championship roster: Sources
By investing in Tucker’s future, the Dodgers are getting an elite left-handed hitter with well-rounded skills.
Dodgers reportedly land Kyle Tucker on 4-year, $240 million deal in biggest swing of MLB free agency
Kyle Tucker, this winter's top free agent, has a new team. It is the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Dodgers. After a single season with the Cubs, Tucker is joining the Dodgers on a four-year, $240 million deal, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan and Jesse Rogers.
MLB free agency: Kyle Tucker reportedly agrees to deal with Dodgers
Matt Dirksen via Getty ImagesThe top MLB free agent has found a new landing spot, and it's the two-time defending champions. After one season with the Chicago Cubs, outfielder Kyle Tucker has agreed to a deal with the Dodgers, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.
Phillies offseason check-in: What's the latest on J.T. Realmuto, Bo Bichette and Nick Castellanos?
UPDATE: On Jan. 16, Bo Bichette reportedly agreed on a 3-year, $126 million deal with the Mets, and J.T. Realmuto reportedly agreed on a 3-year, $45 million deal with the Phillies. At the offseason’s outset, the Philadelphia Phillies’ to-do list appeared relatively simple.
Sources: Rockies, Castro agree on 2-year deal
The Rockies and utilityman Willi Castro have reached an agreement on a two-year, $12.8 million contract, sources told ESPN on Thursday.
Johnson 'excited' to join Pagan in Reds' bullpen
Right-hander Pierce Johnson and the Cincinnati Reds have completed their $6.5 million, one-year contract.
Rockies, Willi Castro reach agreement on 2-year contract: Sources
Castro has logged time at three infield positions as well as all three outfield spots during his seven seasons in the majors.
MLB free agency: What's the latest on Cody Bellinger and Bo Bichette after Kyle Tucker's big deal?
UPDATE: Bo Bichette reportedly agreed to a 3-year, $126 million deal with the Mets on Jan. 16. When star third baseman Alex Bregman agreed to a deal with the Cubs, he ended a weeks-long deadlock atop the free-agent hitter market.
MLB free agency: What's the latest on Kyle Tucker, Cody Bellinger and Bo Bichette?
When star third baseman Alex Bregman agreed to a deal with the Cubs, he ended a weeks-long deadlock atop the free-agent hitter market.
Giants, Mets among teams with notable signings as new MLB international signing period begins
Luis Hernández, signed by the Giants for $5 million, is considered the top prospect in this year's class.
Kershaw set to pitch in World Baseball Classic
Despite retiring from pitching after helping the Los Angeles Dodgers win a second straight World Series title, Clayton Kershaw has committed to pitch in the World Baseball Classic.
'Why not?' Dodgers great Clayton Kershaw explains why he'll play in the World Baseball Classic
“I figured this is the perfect time to try the WBC. I really want to be a part of it,” Kershaw said.
News or noise: Breakout season on tap for Arizona's Jordan Lawlar?
Eric Karabell keeps tabs on the baseball world and tells you what is relevant to fantasy baseball managers.
Clayton Kershaw to play for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic despite retirement from MLB: 'Why not?'
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw had an emotional farewell tour last year after announcing in September that he would retire at the conclusion of the 2025 MLB season.
Retiring pitcher Clayton Kershaw joins Team USA's World Baseball Classic roster
This WBC gives Kershaw a chance to pitch in the tournament for the first time.
Boston adds Ranger Suárez to formidable rotation. Plus: Royals moving fences in
Welcome to The Windup, The Athletic's MLB newsletter.
15th January 2026
Kershaw, Verlander, Scherzer: Which pitcher is this generation's true ace?
Three future Hall of Famers have dominated the conversation. We break down who the king of the hill is for his generation.
The Dodgers ... and everybody else? State of NL West with moves left to make
L.A. is (again) the favorite, but with a month left until spring training, each team has work to do.
José Ramírez continues to add to his Hall of Fame case — is he now within reach?
If Ramírez can maintain his recent level of consistency for another couple years, it should be enough to secure his spot.
This Week in Sports Trivia: January 15, 2026
How closely were you following the sports news this week? Find out and test your knowledge by taking The Athletic's weekly quiz.
My 2026 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot — change is coming to Cooperstown
Here's how I voted, and why. We appear to be on the cusp of dramatically redefining what a Hall of Famer looks like in the 21st century.
We asked over 100 people in sports which leaders they most admire. Here are the top 40
What do Dawn Staley, Andy Reid, Emma Hayes and Steph Curry have in common? They all finished in the top 10 in our leadership survey.
Twins claim switch-hitting INF Brujan off waivers
The Twins claimed switch-hitting infielder Vidal Brujan off waivers from the Braves on Wednesday.
Red Sox's signing of Ranger Suárez adds a co-ace behind Garrett Crochet, marks a bold first move post-Bregman
At long last, the Boston Red Sox are on the board in free agency.
New D-back Arenado: Expectations still high
Nolan Arenado hopes a move to the young Arizona Diamondbacks can lead to postseason success.
Yankees' playoff hero thrilled about son's trade to Bronx: 'Full-circle moment'
David Weathers helped the Yankees win the 1996 World Series. Now, his son, Ryan, is headed to the Bronx, and dad couldn't be happier.
FanDuel Sports Network makes new offers to MLB teams, hinging on the company being sold
If it isn't sold, Main Street has told partner teams it plans to wind down FanDuel Sports Network operations after the NBA and NHL seasons.
Nolan Arenado felt he was 'in the way' of young talent in St. Louis, ready for fresh start
“I loved my time there,” Arenado said of his tenure with the Cardinals, but he noted that he's looking forward to playing for Arizona.
After Mike Tomlin’s exit, these are the longest-tenured coaches in North American pro sports
Who are the other longest tenured coaches after Erik Spoelstra?.
Padres hire ex-manager Black to front office role
The Padres have hired former manager Bud Black as senior adviser to baseball operations and longtime slugger Wil Myers in a player development role.
Source: LHP Suarez, BoSox agree to 5-year deal
The Boston Red Sox have agreed to a five-year, $130 million deal with left-hander Ranger Suarez, a source told ESPN, confirming multiple reports.
Red Sox to sign Ranger Suárez, pivoting to rotation upgrade after losing Alex Bregman: Sources
Suárez showed he could thrive with diminished stuff in 2025. He joins a Red Sox rotation that has already upgraded this winter.
Ranger Suárez reportedly agrees to 5-year, $130 million deal with Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox didn't waste time after missing out on Alex Bregman. Days after the third baseman signed with the Cubs, the Boston Red Sox pivoted, reportedly agreeing to a five-year, $130 million deal with starter Ranger Suárez on Wednesday, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale.
Ranger Suárez reportedly agrees to five-year, $130 million deal with Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox didn't waste time after missing out on Alex Bregman. Days after the third baseman signed with the Cubs, the Boston Red Sox pivoted, reportedly agreeing to a five-year, $130 million deal with starter Ranger Suárez on Wednesday, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale.
14th January 2026
Teams winning the MLB offseason so far -- and those that need to make a big move soon
Which clubs are ruling the winter -- and which have work to do before spring training?.
NL Central urgency ratings: How much work each team still needs to do
It's been a busy winter in Chicago, Pittsburgh and St. Louis. The rest of the division? Not so much.
The Royals are bringing in the walls. What does that mean for their hitters and pitchers?
The Royals will almost certainly hit more home runs with Kauffman's new dimensions. But there will be other impacts as well.
10 prospects to target in 2025 Bowman Draft based on Keith Law's rankings
Plus, which players from the 2024 set have dropped in value and which have risen.
There won’t be a new pitcher in Cooperstown in 2026. But King Félix and Cole Hamels are warming up
Both pitchers will eventually prove to be a case study on Cooperstown's evolving standards for starting pitchers.
Mets' pursuit of Tucker raises questions about defense, plus more MLB offseason notes
What's next for the Red Sox? Plus a breakdown of the ramifications of the Nolan Arenado deal.
After accident, Angels prospect fights for his old life, family hopes for help from team
The day began with the Angels prospect being named his league's player of the month. By the next morning, his career was effectively over.
Yankees bet on Ryan Weathers' upside, their development chops in trade with Marlins
The Marlins got four players back in exchange for Weathers, a package that is more quantity over quality.
Stearns confident in Mets' plan despite criticisms
Mets president David Stearns says he's heard the criticisms of New York's offseason but remains confident that the team is taking the right approach.
Yanks, seeking pitching, deal for Marlins' Weathers
The Yankees, in pursuit of starting pitching, acquired young left-hander Ryan Weathers from the Marlins for a package of four prospects on Tuesday.
Yankees trade with Marlins for Ryan Weathers to bolster rotation
The Yankees send four prospects to Miami for Weathers, 26, but don't expect it to stop their search for a higher-level starting pitcher.
Yankees acquire starting pitcher Ryan Weathers from Marlins for 4 minor leaguers
The New York Yankees acquired left-handed pitcher Ryan Weathers in a trade with the Miami Marlins. The Marlins confirmed the trade Tuesday evening. In return, the Marlins are receiving four minor leaguers: outfielders Dillon Lewis and Brendan Jones and infielders Dillon Jason and Juan Matheus.
Nolan Arenado trade is win for Diamondbacks amid limited options for Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals continued their offseason of offloading Tuesday, completing a deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks to send highly accomplished third baseman Nolan Arenado to the desert in exchange for right-hander Jack Martinez, Arizona’s eighth round draft pick last summer.
Nolan Arenado trade is a win for the Diamondbacks amid limited options for the Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals continued their offseason of offloading Tuesday, completing a deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks to send highly accomplished third baseman Nolan Arenado to the desert in exchange for right-hander Jack Martinez, Arizona’s eighth-round draft pick last summer.
Infielder Ibáñez, Dodgers ink 1-year, $1.2M deal
Infielder Andy Ibáñez, 32, and the Dodgers have finalized a one-year, $1.2 million contract. Ibáñez hit .239 with four home runs and 21 RBIs in 91 games for the Tigers last season before becoming a free agent in November.
Sources: Mets offer Tucker in $50M AAV range
Free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker has been offered a short-term deal by the Mets that is believed to be worth $50 million per season, sources told ESPN.
Citing 'competitive reasons,' Royals announce plan to move and lower outfield wall
The Royals' Kauffman Stadium has a reputation as a pitcher's park, because it tamps down on home runs. That may be about to change.
Cubs Strike Again by Bringing in Alex Bregman, How Bad Did Boston Miss Out & the Bo Bichette–Phillies Connection
Subscribe to Baseball Bar-B-CastApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeWhen the Chicago Cubs acquired Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins, many were left wondering if there would be another big move left in their arsenal.
Diamondbacks add a big name in Nolan Arenado, but will he have a big impact? MLB Trade Grades
The St. Louis Cardinals sent Nolan Arenado to Arizona, along with a hefty chunk of cash. How did both sides do in the deal?.
Red Sox's loss of Alex Bregman was devastating. Their explanation for what happened was just as bad.
The Chicago Cubs have Alex Bregman. Alex Bregman has 175 million bucks. And what do the Boston Red Sox have? A mountain of regret, a gargantuan leadership void and a whole lot of explaining to do.
D-backs acquire Arenado in trade with Cardinals
The Diamondbacks acquired third baseman Nolan Arenado in a trade with St. Louis, concluding the Cardinals' year-plus-long effort to deal the eight-time All-Star.
Giants reportedly exploring trade for second baseman to round out infield
The San Francisco Giants are “aggressively” exploring a trade for a second baseman, according to a report from ESPN’s Jeff Passan. San Francisco is in talks with the Chicago Cubs about Nico Hoerner and with the St. Louis Cardinals regarding Brendan Donovan.
Cardinals send Nolan Arenado to Diamondbacks for RHP Jack Martinez
The Arizona Diamondbacks have acquired Nolan Arenado in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, the teams announced Tuesday. Arenado is heading to Arizona along with cash considerations for 22-year-old right-hander Jack Martinez, who was selected in the eighth round of the 2025 MLB Draft.
Cardinals trade Nolan Arenado to D-Backs, ending long saga
The deal wraps up a long saga of the Cardinals attempting to trade their cornerstone third baseman.
Six in 2026: AUSL announces home cities for the league's second season
Chicago, Durham, N.C., Round Rock, Tex., Salt Lake City, Portland (Ore.) and Oklahoma City will all host AUSL franchises in 2026.
Where Mets stand in free agent Kyle Tucker sweepstakes
Kyle Tucker’s preferences for contract length and dollars (both overall and in annual average value) are unknown.
As Phillies' Bo Bichette pursuit gains momentum, their openness to longer deals could win out
The Phillies, who often wield years as their separator, might be the only team willing to extend to six, seven or eight years for Bichette.
Royals moving walls in by 10 feet at Kauffman
The Royals are moving the majority of their outfield fence in by 10 feet, drastically changing the offensive environment at Kauffman Stadium.
State of the AL East: What's next for Yankees, Red Sox, Jays, Rays and O's
Sizing up MLB's deepest division -- and how urgent it is for each team to make a move.
13th January 2026
Baseball Hall of Fame ballots 2026: The Athletic's voters explain their selections
Twelve of The Athletic's Hall of Fame voters reveal their ballots and discuss the thinking behind some of their selections.
Tigers' arbitration approach, Cody Bellinger talks and other notable MLB developments
Here are a few news items that have Jim Bowden taking notice and, in some cases, shaking his head.
MLB trying to ‘force’ players into salary cap, union says, as Manfred walks a tricky line
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred's recent comments on a salary cap system prompted a strong response from baseball's union.
Yankees-Cody Bellinger staredown features disconnect over free agency trends: Sources
At least one area of friction appears to be differing interpretations of the market and Bellinger’s standing in it, league sources said.
Rays acquire Wisely, Waldichuk from Braves
The Rays acquired infielder Brett Wisely and left-hander Ken Waldichuk from the Braves on Monday in exchange for cash considerations or a player to be named later.
Tupac Shakur Orioles bobblehead to debut against Athletics
The legendary musician lived in Baltimore from 1984-88 and studied acting and poetry at the Baltimore School of the Arts.
Pitchers Custodio, Sierra hit with 56-game bans
Giants pitcher Luis Custodio and free agent pitcher Luis Sierra were suspended 56 games each following positive tests under the minor league drug program.
