Let’s dive into the latest MLB offseason buzz as teams scramble to make their final moves before spring training begins.
Just a day after the blockbuster news of Roki Sasaki signing with the Dodgers, the rest of the league is still on the hunt for upgrades, and there’s plenty of action to break down.
Blue Jays Still Searching After Sasaki Miss
The Toronto Blue Jays were in hot pursuit of Sasaki. Now that he’s off the board, they’re left reassessing their options. It seems like missing out on big names is becoming a bit of a trend for them.
They’re still in the market for offensive firepower and pitching depth, and according to the New York Post, free-agent slugger Anthony Santander is firmly on their radar.
Santander, who crushed 44 homers with 102 RBIs last season, could bring some much-needed pop to a lineup that relies heavily on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette.
And it doesn’t stop there—the Jays are also eyeing Mets slugger Pete Alonso, a guy who’s been a model of consistency with an average of 43 homers and 112 RBIs per 162 games. Adding either would certainly inject some life into an offense that could use more depth.
Toronto is still in need of rotational support as well. Despite missing out on Sasaki, the Jays are still in the mix for rotation help says Sportsnet. Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, Chris Bassitt, and Bowden Francis form a solid top four. However, there’s still room for improvement.
Top remaining free agents like Jack Flaherty, Max Scherzer, and Nick Pivetta could be potential targets to round out their staff.
Cardinals Holding Out Hope for Arenado Trade
Over in St. Louis, the Nolan Arenado trade saga continues. Despite reports that a deal was in place to send the All-Star third baseman to Houston, Arenado exercised his no-trade clause to halt the move.
That hasn’t stopped Cardinals president John Mozeliak from staying optimistic, though, as he remains hopeful a deal will come together before spring training.
It’s a tricky situation, but if Alex Bregman finds a landing spot, it might create some urgency in the market for a team still looking for an elite third baseman.
The Cardinals are playing the waiting game for now. They hope to find the right trade partner to convince Arenado to waive his no-trade protection.
Cubs Keeping the Door Open for Deadline Moves
Meanwhile, the Cubs have been relatively quiet in Chicago after making a splash earlier this offseason by acquiring Kyle Tucker. But team owner Tom Ricketts is leaving the door open for more spending—just not right now.
He recently stated that the Cubs have the flexibility to add payroll if needed at the trade deadline according to The Athletic. Adding payroll could be reassuring for fans hoping for another big move.
The timing of this statement raises eyebrows as some might have expected the freed-up cash from Cody Bellinger’s departure to result in more acquisitions.
The Cubs seem to be taking a more patient approach which could frustrate those hoping for an aggressive push before Opening Day.
Latest MLB Buzz Wrap Up
Teams are feeling the pressure to finalize their rosters with Spring Training coming quickly.
The Blue Jays are still in the hunt for reinforcements, the Cardinals are navigating a delicate trade situation, and the Cubs are keeping their options open for later in the season.
One thing’s for sure: the MLB hot stove isn’t cooling down yet. Stay tuned!
