The 2025-26 Major League Baseball offseason is still in progress, and as the winter meetings become a part of the past, we are taking a closer look at the ongoing offseason activities. Winter in baseball is known for a steady stream of rumors regarding free agent deals, trades, and other moves. A recap from Christmas Eve is included below.
One notable update is that the New York Yankees have shown interest in veteran outfielder Austin Hayes. According to the New York Post, the Yankees would likely pursue Hayes only if Cody Bellinger, an important player for them last season and a top offseason target, signs with another team. Earlier reports mentioned that the Mets and Royals are also interested in Hayes. At 30 years old, Hayes has a career OPS+ of 106 over eight MLB seasons, with a 105 OPS+ last year playing for the Reds. He holds a career WAR of 10.8 and was an All-Star for the first time in 2023 as part of the Orioles. Hayes is particularly strong against left-handed pitchers, with an .819 OPS.
In other news, the Miami Marlins have signed veteran reliever Pete Fairbanks to a one-year, $13 million contract, as reported by The Athletic. Fairbanks, 32, has served as the closer for the Tampa Bay Rays over the last three seasons. CBS Sports previously ranked him as the No. 40 free agent in the 2025-26 class, noting that while durability and strikeout rates have been concerns, his slider remains highly effective. The Marlins, who lost reliever Ronnie Henriquez to Tommy John surgery, clearly sought high-quality relief pitching with this signing.
Fan Take: These moves highlight how teams are strategically addressing their rosters during the offseason, balancing veteran experience with team needs. For baseball fans, it means an exciting upcoming season with potentially impactful players reshaping team dynamics and competitive balance.
