With spring training just around the corner, Major League Baseball teams are scrambling to put the finishing touches on their rosters.
It’s that time of year when front offices are burning the midnight oil, trying to make those last-minute moves that could set their teams up for success in the coming season. And trust me, the MLB rumor mill is churning at full speed.
Red Sox, Astros Still Circling Alex Bregman
Alex Bregman is one of the biggest names still floating around in free agency. The Boston Red Sox are reportedly interested in bringing the star infielder to Fenway.
Here’s the catch—Boston is only willing to offer a short-term deal, with reports indicating they won’t go beyond four years.
Given Bregman’s talent and the longer-term offers he’s likely weighing, it’s fair to wonder if the Red Sox are truly in the running or just testing the waters.
Meanwhile, the Houston Astros aren’t ready to close the door on a potential Bregman return. Astros manager Joe Espada has expressed optimism that Bregman could still find his way back to Houston.
However, Houston may need to free up some financial breathing room to make it happen. And that leads us right into the next big development.
Tigers Out on Pressly; Cubs in the Driver’s Seat
Moving MLB veteran reliever Ryan Pressly could be their solution if the Astros want to bring Bregman back.
Pressly, a two-time All-Star with a solid track record, is owed $14 million this season—money Houston could use elsewhere.
But here’s the latest twist: the Detroit Tigers are reportedly no longer pursuing Pressly, which means the Chicago Cubs are now the last team standing in the chase.
Of course, there’s one major wrinkle—Pressly has a full no-trade clause. That gives him the power to shut down any potential move if it doesn’t align with his plans.
Whether he’s open to heading to the North Side of Chicago remains to be seen, but it looks like the Cubs have a clear path if the veteran reliever gives the green light.
Mets Take a Flier on Adbert Alzolay
In a quieter but still intriguing move, the New York Mets have picked up former Cubs closer Adbert Alzolay on a two-year minor-league deal per The Athletic.
Alzolay is still recovering from Tommy John surgery, which means he’s unlikely to see action in 2025, but the Mets are clearly playing the long game here.
In 2023, Alzolay put up some impressive numbers, racking 22 saves and posting a strong 2.67 ERA. If he can return to that form in 2026, this deal could be a sneaky-good move for New York.
It’s all about patience and recovery for now, but the potential is hard to ignore. With the countdown to spring training ticking away, expect more twists, turns, and surprises as teams finalize their rosters.
Whether it’s blockbuster signings or under-the-radar pickups, the MLB offseason drama never fails to deliver. Stay tuned because things are just getting started.
