The countdown to Major League Baseball Spring Training is officially on. MLB teams are scrambling to make those last-minute roster moves before pitchers and catchers report.
We’re talking trades, signings, and plenty of rumors to keep the hot stove sizzling. Let’s dive into some of the latest buzz around the league and see where things stand.
Tigers Still Eyeing Alex Bregman, But Talks Are Stalling
Detroit fans have been closely watching the Alex Bregman situation, and guess what? It’s still in limbo. The Tigers are reportedly very interested in bringing the two-time All-Star and Gold Glove third baseman to the Motor City.
Still, according to the Detroit Free Press, negotiations have hit a standstill. Bregman, now 30, put together a solid 2024 season in Houston, slashing .260/.315/.453 with 26 home runs and 30 doubles.
No doubt adding Bregman’s right-handed bat would give Detroit a major boost, especially coming off their surprise playoff run last season. They’ve got the payroll flexibility to make it happen, but the question is—can they seal the deal?
The Red Sox and Blue Jays are also reportedly circling, so the Tigers might need to move fast if they want to land him. Stay tuned.
Dodgers Close Kirby Yates
Speaking of teams that aren’t done yet, the Dodgers are making moves, and the latest signing appears to be veteran reliever Kirby Yates. Fresh off inking lefty Tanner Scott, L.A. is also adding Yates to the bullpen mix.
Despite some command concerns, the 37-year-old right-hander put up eye-popping numbers last season with a 1.17 ERA over 61 innings.
Yates has battled injuries in the past, and control has been an issue—walking nearly five batters per nine innings over the last two MLB seasons.
But when he’s on, he’s lights out, thanks to his signature fastball-splitter combo that leaves hitters flailing. Yates could end up being one of the most underrated bullpen signings of the offseason.
Jurickson Profar Drawing Interest from Multiple MLB Teams
And then there’s Jurickson Profar. The former MLB No. 1 prospect finally delivered on his potential in 2024. Now, teams are lining up for his services.
The Blue Jays, Astros, and Padres are all reportedly in the mix, but there’s a twist—the Padres may not have the financial wiggle room to bring him back.
Profar’s 2024 numbers were impressive, showing improved power and plate discipline, and while he’s 31, teams seem to believe he’s got more in the tank. The Blue Jays recently added Anthony Santander to their outfield this offseason, but they could still use Profar’s versatility.
The Astros are looking for outfield help after shipping Kyle Tucker to the Cubs earlier this winter. This one could go down to the wire. So, as the offseason clock ticks down, keep your eyes peeled because things are heating up.
Whether it’s Bregman finding a new home, Yates bolstering the Dodgers’ bullpen, or Profar cashing in on his breakout year, it’s shaping up to be an exciting few weeks before MLB is officially back.
