Major League Baseball’s (MLB) offseason may be winding down with the holidays around the corner, but that hasn’t stopped teams from squeezing in a flurry of moves to reshape their rosters.
Saturday brought a mix of trades, signings, and intriguing rumors that should keep fans buzzing as the hot stove simmers. Let’s break it down.
Guardians Shake Things Up
The Cleveland Guardians stole the spotlight by dealing first baseman Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks. In return, they snagged a prospect and a draft pick, setting the stage for a strategic roster shift.
Cleveland didn’t stop there. They quickly inked veteran Carlos Santana to a one-year, $12 million contract. This marks Santana’s third stint with the Guardians, a team where his familiarity and leadership could prove invaluable.
At 39 this coming April, Santana is fresh off a career milestone, earning his first Gold Glove in 2024. Though his bat has shown some wear, he still managed a respectable .238/.328/.420 slash line with 23 home runs last season.
The Guardians are banking on Santana to mentor top prospect Kyle Manzardo while sharing duties at first base and designated hitter. The righty-lefty combination of Santana and Manzardo makes for a natural platoon, especially given Santana’s prowess against lefties (.934 OPS).
Yankees Add Power with Goldschmidt
Over in the Bronx, the Yankees continued their aggressive offseason by signing first baseman Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year, $12.5 million deal. Goldschmidt, 37, is looking to bounce back after his worst big-league season.
While his .245/.302/.414 slash line was underwhelming; his 22 home runs and solid average exit velocity (91.2 mph) indicate there’s still gas in the tank.
The Yankees outmaneuvered several interested teams, including the Mets, Mariners, Nationals, and Giants, to land the slugger. With this signing, they add a proven veteran who could provide steadiness to their lineup, even as his strikeout and walk rates show signs of decline.
Arenado Trade Drama in St. Louis
The Cardinals appear to be playing hardball with potential trade partners. MLB reported they declined an offer from the Yankees that would have swapped Nolan Arenado for right-hander Marcus Stroman.
While Arenado holds a no-trade clause, insiders suggest he’d consider waiving it for a move to New York, particularly after the Yankees acquire Goldschmidt.
Arenado, 33, still has three years remaining on his contract and has been linked to several trade rumors this offseason. Reports indicate the Cardinals might sweeten any deal with financial concessions, but so far, no offers have crossed the finish line. Besides Arenado, the Cardinals are also fielding inquiries on closer Ryan Helsley and starters Erick Fedde and Steven Matz.
The clock may be ticking on the offseason, but there’s plenty of action left before teams retreat for the holidays. Whether massive trades or calculated signings, MLB’s front offices keep the stove piping hot.
