Major League Baseball is currently in its offseason, which has brought a wave of trade and signing rumors. CBS Sports provides the latest updates on Friday’s key news, activities, and social media buzz across the league.
The New York Yankees have reached out to notable free agent outfielders Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger, with general manager Brian Cashman confirming ongoing talks. Cashman expressed a strong desire to re-sign Bellinger and discussed negotiations with agents representing various free agents, including Tucker. Tucker is considered the top free agent available, attracting potential interest from teams like the Blue Jays, Phillies, and . Bellinger, familiar to Yankees fans after last season following a trade from the Cubs, ranks sixth in CBS Sports’ winter free-agent class. The Yankees recently secured outfielder Trent Grisham on a one-year contract worth a little over $22 million.
Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals remains a sought-after player in trade discussions. According to MLB Network’s John Morosi, teams such as the Astros, Royals, Yankees, and Mets have expressed interest in acquiring the versatile 28-year-old utility player. Donovan has a solid career batting average and defensive flexibility, which allows him to fit various team needs. This offseason also marks the Cardinals’ first under new coach Chaim Bloom, signaling a rebuilding phase for the team.
In another move, the Minnesota Twins have bolstered their catching options by trading for veteran Alex Jackson from the Baltimore Orioles, giving up minor league infielder Peyton Eales. Jackson, who recently turned 30, has six partial MLB seasons under his belt and could serve as a backup or share playing time with current catcher Ryan Jeffers, especially if Jeffers is traded as part of the Twins’ rebuild plans. Last season, Jackson batted .220 with five home runs over 36 games.
Fan Take: These developments highlight the dynamic nature of MLB’s offseason, where teams are strategically building rosters for future success. Bringing back familiar faces and pursuing top talent like Tucker and Donovan keeps fans excited and hopeful for an engaging upcoming season.
