The Major League Baseball offseason for 2025-26 is now underway, with the winter meetings completed and the rumor mill in full motion, highlighting potential free agent deals, trades, and signings. Saturday’s update includes several key moves and negotiations around the league.
The Kansas City Royals, shortly after signing Lane Thomas, have acquired outfielder Isaac Collins from the Milwaukee Brewers in a three-player trade that also included pitchers Nick Mears and Angel Zerpa. Collins, who was fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year race last season with a .368 on-base percentage, had a rough finish and limited postseason starts with Milwaukee. Mears recorded 46 strikeouts over 56 2/3 innings with a 3.49 ERA, while Zerpa, known for his rare velocity that can reach 160 mph, pitched a 4.18 ERA over 64 2/3 innings last season and is considered a promising asset by the Brewers.
The St. Louis Cardinals have signed right-hander Dustin May to a one-year deal, a smart move given May’s age of 28 and his effective sinker-slider combination. Despite injury struggles and limited starts over the past few years, the Cardinals see potential for May to improve and possibly earn a long-term contract or trade value down the line. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers have agreed to a one-year contract, with a club option for 2027, with veteran closer Kenley Jansen, who has had a storied 16-year career with an ERA of 1.55+ and ranks fourth all-time in saves.
The New York Yankees re-signed utility player Amed Rosario on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Rosario, who played for both the Nationals and Yankees last year, showed versatility by playing four different defensive positions and an .800 OPS against left-handed pitching. Meanwhile, the Mets are still looking to strengthen their roster after signing Jorge Polanco and are reportedly in trade talks with the Padres, who have several players available including reliever Mason Miller, a strong bullpen candidate for the Mets after losing closer Edwin Diaz.
The Boston Red Sox have expressed interest in Cardinals first baseman Willson Contreras, who is coming off a powerful offensive season. Contreras, entering his 34-year-old season and under contract through 2027 with a club option for 2028, has a no-trade clause and might prefer staying with St. Louis, but his right-handed power would appeal to Fenway Park as the Red Sox seek to boost their lineup.
Fan Take: This offseason activity underscores the strategic moves teams are making to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term potential. Fans should watch these deals closely, as they could reshape teams’ futures and influence the competitive landscape of MLB in the coming seasons.
