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MLB rumors during Thanksgiving week are usually quiet, but a trade did take place with the Red Sox acquiring Sonny Gray from the Cardinals this morning. There may still be more significant moves, so stay tuned.
Here’s a summary of the latest rumors:
Imai Aims to Outsmart the
Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, recently posted as an MLB free agent by the Saitama Seibu Lions, isn’t likely to join the despite their strong Japanese player presence. In an interview with former pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, Imai shared that his goal is to surpass the and their star Japanese players like Shohei Ohtani. He said, “While playing alongside stars like Ohtani and Yamamoto would be fun, beating them to become world champions would be the greatest achievement of my life.” Though Imai, 27, might consider offers if the present the best one, his stance adds an interesting twist to free agency. He finished his NPB career with an impressive 1.92 ERA and a 3.96 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 24 games and CBS Sports ranks him 12th among free agents.
Diamondbacks Open to Trade Talks for All-Star Marte
Ketel Marte faced some challenges last season, and some teammates were reportedly frustrated. However, the Diamondbacks stayed patient after Marte took time off following a home robbery, but his name still comes up in trade discussions. According to MLB Network, the Diamondbacks are actively listening to offers for the 32-year-old All-Star second baseman. Marte played 126 games last season with a .283/.376/.517 batting line, 28 home runs, and 4.4 WAR. He fits well on many teams but would require regular second base playing time and is under contract through 2030 with a $15 million salary next season.
Red Sox Show Interest in Catcher Realmuto
While a new catcher isn’t a top offseason priority for Boston, The Athletic reports they have expressed interest in free agent JT Realmuto. However, it remains early in free agency and Realmuto is expected to likely re-sign with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he’s been since 2019. Last year, Realmuto appeared in 134 games with a .257/.315/.384 line, hitting 12 home runs and posting 2.5 WAR. Though he’s unlikely to match his 6.5 WAR from 2022 soon, he remains a solid defensive and offensive catcher. Boston currently has Carlos Narváez and Connor Wong at catcher.
Marlins and Kyle Stowers Far Apart in Extension Talks
The Marlins and outfielder Kyle Stowers had extension talks but couldn’t agree, as the team’s offer was reportedly about half of what Stowers’ agent was seeking. Stowers is looking at contracts similar to Bryan Reynolds’ eight-year, $106.5 million deal, while Miami considered an eight-year, $50 million offer for Sedanne Rafaela instead. Stowers, 27, had a breakout 2025 season with a .288/.368/.544 line, 25 home runs, and 3.6 WAR in 117 games.
Ryan Helsley Considering Shift to Starting Pitcher
Former Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, traded to the Mets last season, may switch from relief to starting pitching, drawing interest from over 15 teams. Helsley, 31, was a top closer in 2024 but struggled with the Mets, posting a 7.20 ERA in 22 games. He has never started an MLB game but has a solid career as a reliever with a 2.96 ERA and 377 strikeouts over 319.2 innings in 297 relief appearances.
Fan Take: This flurry of moves and negotiations highlights how the offseason can shift the landscape dramatically, affecting not only teams but the competitive balance in MLB. Fans should keep a close eye on free agents like Imai and Marte, whose decisions and trades could shape the next championship contenders and bring fresh excitement to the game.
