Spring training is officially underway, so it’s time to keep an eye on roster moves, last-minute free-agent signings, and potential trades. MLB teams are still fine-tuning their lineups as they gear up for Opening Day.
A few clubs still have some work to do. Let’s dive into the latest buzz from around the league.
Padres on the Hunt for More Offense
The San Diego Padres are reportedly still looking to add another bat, either via trade or free agency, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.
Despite finishing eighth in runs scored last season, they’ve lost key pieces this offseason, including Jurickson Profar, Ha-Seong Kim, Kyle Higashioka, and Donovan Solano.
Right now, the top half of their lineup is solid—Luis Arraez, Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrill, Manny Machado, Jake Cronenworth, and Xander Bogaerts are a strong core.
But the bottom third? It’s not exactly striking fear into opposing pitchers. Jason Heyward and Connor Joe are set to platoon in left field, and the DH spot remains a question mark.
Who’s still out there? Veteran sluggers Justin Turner and J.D. Martinez remain free agents. While Nolan Arenado is rumored to be available via trade, San Diego may not want to pay the high price tag.
Other options include Mark Canha and Anthony Rizzo or perhaps a trade for Tigers first baseman Spencer Torkelson, who might benefit from a change of scenery.
Yankees Likely to Extend Aaron Boone
The Yankees and their manager Aaron Boone have been discussing an extension for most of the offseason, and all signs point to a deal being done before Opening Day.
Back on Jan. 28, owner Hal Steinbrenner strongly suggested Boone would return, and now general manager Brian Cashman has echoed that sentiment, saying an official announcement could come soon per MLB.com.
Boone, 51, has led the Yankees since 2018, capturing three AL East titles and making three ALCS appearances.
Last season, he finally got the Yankees over the hump and into the World Series, though they ultimately fell to the Dodgers in five games.
With his track record, it makes sense that New York wants to keep him around.
Diamondbacks Bolster Bullpen with Kendall Graveman
The defending National League champs have added another veteran arm to their bullpen, signing right-hander Kendall Graveman to a one-year, $1.35 million deal according to MLB.com.
Graveman, 34, missed all of 2024 due to shoulder surgery, but he’s reportedly healthy and ready to go.
In 2023, Graveman split time between the White Sox and Astros, putting up a solid 3.12 ERA across 68 appearances.
He’s worked as both a closer and a setup man, which makes him a valuable addition to an Arizona bullpen that already features Justin Martinez, A.J. Puk, Kevin Ginkel, and Ryan Thompson.
If Martinez struggles, Graveman could be in the mix for ninth-inning duties.
Guardians Add Versatile Arm in Jakob Junis
Cleveland is known for maximizing the potential of its pitchers, and they’ll have another interesting arm to work with after signing Jakob Junis to a one-year, $4.5 million deal per ESPN.
Junis, 32, was excellent last season, posting a 2.69 ERA and an impressive 0.85 WHIP over 67 innings. He started six games, finished four, and worked in multiple roles.
His performance is making him a valuable Swiss Army knife for the Guardians’ pitching staff. Given Cleveland’s track record with pitchers, Junis may play a crucial role this season.
MLB Teams Are Looking To Finalize Rosters
We’re bound to see more moves as teams iron out their rosters with Spring Training in action. The Padres need another bat, the Yankees are locking in Boone, and contenders like Arizona and Cleveland are adding depth. Stay tuned—there’s still plenty of action ahead before Opening Day!
