The holiday season has come to an end, and with it, Major League Baseball’s offseason is now fully underway. With just seven weeks remaining until spring training begins, the top four free agents have yet to sign with any team—though that could change soon. CBS Sports compiles the day’s most important moves and updates in one place.
The New York Yankees have reportedly made a formal offer to outfielder Cody Bellinger, according to the New York Post. While the details of the offer are not disclosed, it signals the Yankees’ commitment to keeping Bellinger, a premier free agent hitter. Last season, Bellinger, 30, played for the Yankees after being traded from the Cubs, posting a .272/.334/.480 line with 29 home runs and 13 stolen bases. Baseball Reference estimates his offensive value at 5.1 wins above replacement. Throughout the offseason, Bellinger has been the Yankees’ top target, with Kyle Tucker considered a secondary option.
The , Yankees, and Cubs have shown interest in free agent infielder Bo Bichette, who was previously linked to only the Blue Jays and Red Sox, the two teams he has played for. Bichette, 28, had a strong rebound season last March, batting .311/.357/.483 with 18 home runs and four steals, valued at 3.5 wins above replacement. Bichette has indicated a willingness to move to second base to facilitate a deal.
The Angels have expressed interest in Cardinals’ third baseman Nolan Arenado. The Cardinals have already added pitcher Sonny Gray and catcher Willson Contreras in trades this offseason. Although Arenado, 34, struggled offensively last year with a .237/.289/.377 line, he remains a solid defender at third base. The Cardinals may need to cover much of the $42 million left on Arenado’s contract, but have shown openness to absorbing salaries in trades. The Angels opened a spot at third base by buying out Anthony Rendon’s contract and losing Yoan Moncada to free agency.
Fan Take: These ongoing movements highlight the dynamic nature of the MLB offseason, where teams are strategically navigating financial and roster challenges to strengthen their lineups. For fans, watching how these high-profile players settle in new homes adds excitement and sets the stage for a compelling season ahead.
