Major League Baseball’s offseason is winding down, with pitchers and catchers set to report to spring training sites in Arizona and Florida in just over a week. However, teams still have work to do as several prominent free agents remain unsigned, including veteran starters Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen. Below is a summary of Monday’s key moves and updates compiled by CBS Sports.
Yankees and Mets show interest in Ty France
According to MassLive, the Yankees, Mets, Padres, and Diamondbacks are all pursuing free agent first baseman Ty France. Last season, the 31-year-old France batted .257/.320/.360 (OPS+88) with seven home runs over 138 games split between the Twins and Blue Jays. Baseball Reference’s metrics suggest he contributed roughly one win above replacement. Known for his solid defense at first base, France has struggled offensively in recent years, not hitting above a .700 OPS against either left or right-handed pitching during the past two seasons. The Yankees appear intrigued by a possible reunion with Paul Goldschmidt, hinting they might seek a complementary right-handed hitting first baseman to partner with left-handed hitter Ben Rice.
Diamondbacks consider Santana amid France interest
The Diamondbacks are among the teams chasing France but also have their eyes on Carlos Santana, according to 98.7 FM. Arizona is expected to slot Pavin Smith as their everyday first baseman. Santana, who turns 40 in April, played 124 games last season for the Guardians and Cubs, posting a .219/.308/.325 line (OPS+77). His value, according to Baseball Reference, equates to about 1.1 wins above replacement. Like France, Santana is regarded as a dependable defender at first base, illustrating a market emerging for players who provide strong defensive skills at the position.
Fan Take:
This flurry of free-agent activity around first basemen reveals a growing emphasis on defensive ability at traditionally offense-driven positions, signaling a shift in team strategies. For baseball fans, these signings could lead to more balanced, versatile lineups and tighter, more competitive games in the upcoming season.
