The Major League Baseball offseason for 2025-26 is still underway, with the new year fast approaching, leading to continuous speculation around free agent signings, trades, and other roster moves. A recap of recent developments was shared on Tuesday.
The Cincinnati Reds are actively looking to strengthen their outfield despite already signing JJ Breday as a free agent and acquiring Dane Myers via trade. According to The Athletic, the Reds plan to further bolster their outfield primarily through another trade, potentially by trading some of their pitching rotation players, aiming to improve their 2026 roster and beyond. Last season, Cincinnati made the playoffs for the first full season since 2013, securing the third and final National League wild card spot, although their offense ranked only 26th in OPS+ in the majors.
On Monday night, the Miami Marlins traded for outfielder Estury Ruiz from the , giving up right-handed pitching prospect Adriano Marrero in return. This move led to infielder Eric Wagaman being designated for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster. Lewis, 26, who recently led the American League in stolen bases with 67 during his 2023 season with the Athletics, has a .639 OPS and a -1.2 WAR over four MLB years. Marrero, 18, saw his first professional action last year pitching in the Dominican Summer League.
In other news, Japanese first baseman Kazuma Okamoto is in the United States to meet with teams interested in him ahead of the January 4th 5 pm ET deadline to sign, as per the MLB-NPB posting system. Previously reported suitors include the Pirates, Padres, and Angels. Okamoto, 29, who is ranked as the 22nd top free agent this offseason, has played his entire career with the Yomiuri Giants, compiling a .322/.411/.581 batting line with 15 home runs in 77 games despite an elbow injury in 2025. Primarily a third baseman, Okamoto has shown promise to continue in this position going forward.
Fan Take: This offseason activity highlights the strategic moves teams are making to address weaknesses and bolster their rosters, which could significantly impact the competitive landscape in 2026. The pursuit of international talent like Okamoto also underscores baseball’s global reach and the growing influence of Japanese players in MLB, promising exciting developments for fans worldwide.
