The New York Mets agreed to a two-year, $22-million deal with left-handed reliever A.J. Minter, a...

The New York Mets agreed to a two-year, $22-million deal with left-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9513" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9513">A.J. Minter</a>, according to the <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/1880344127507951752">New York Post's Joel Sherman</a>.Minter spent the last eight seasons with the Atlanta Braves, authoring a 3.28 ERA and 10.9 K/9 with 36 saves in 384 appearances.He posted a 2.62 ERA in 34 1/3 innings last season, missing the end of the year after undergoing left hip surgery in August. The 31-year-old is expected to be ready for the start of spring training.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Minter will likely act as a setup man in a Mets bullpen featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5384" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5384">Edwin Díaz</a> at closer.Mets' projected bullpen in 2025<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>THROWS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Edwin Díaz</td>
<td>RHP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>A.J. Minter</td>
<td>LHP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>José Buttó</td>
<td>RHP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Reed Garrett</td>
<td>RHP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Danny Young</td>
<td>LHP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sean Reid-Foley</td>
<td>RHP</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Griffin Canning</td>
<td>RHP</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Mets have had a busy offseason, signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8239">Clay Holmes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5006" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5006">Frankie Montas</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9562">Griffin Canning</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4022" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4022">Jesse Winker</a> while re-signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4239">Sean Manaea</a> and trading for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4979" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4979">Jose Siri</a>.

DENVER, COLORADO - AUGUST 11: A.J. Minter #33 of the Atlanta Braves pitches against the Colorado Rockies in the seventh inning at Coors Field on August 11, 2024 in Denver, Colorado.

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Report: Mets, Minter agree to 2-year, $22M deal

The Boston Red Sox and outfielder Jarren Duran avoided arbitration Friday by agreeing to a one-ye...

The Boston Red Sox and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12272" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12272">Jarren Duran</a> avoided arbitration Friday by agreeing to a one-year contract that includes a 2026 team option.Duran will earn $3.85 million in 2025, while the 2026 option is valued at $8 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1880296730287337704">Jeff Passan of ESPN</a>.The agreement includes numerous performance escalators.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Max club option salary is $12m. If traded, the club option is eliminated and $100k buyout converts to an assigment bonus payable by assignee club. There are also $50K bonuses for 450, 500, and 550 PAs.— Alex Speier (@alexspeier) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexspeier/status/1880296682484830392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Red Sox originally filed at $3.5 million, with Duran asking for $4 million ahead of last week's deadline.Duran, 28, is coming off a breakout campaign for the Red Sox. He made his first All-Star team and finished eighth in AL MVP voting after hitting .285/.342/.492 with 21 home runs, 48 doubles, 14 triples, 75 RBIs, and 34 steals in 160 games.

BOSTON, MA - MAY 16: Jarren Duran #16 of the Boston Red Sox reacts after hitting a two-run home run during the fifth inning of a game against the Seattle Mariners on May 16, 2023 at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Red Sox, Duran agree to 1-year deal, avoid arbitration

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired outfielder Myles Straw, cash, and international bonus pool money f...

The Toronto Blue Jays acquired outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8938" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8938">Myles Straw</a>, cash, and international bonus pool money for the 2025 signing period from the Cleveland Guardians for a player to be named later, the teams announced Friday.Cleveland is sending $3.75 million to Toronto to help cover some of the remaining money on Straw's contract, sources told <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1880298158389170548">Ben Nicholson-Smith and Shi Davidi of Sportsnet</a>. Straw appeared in only seven big-league games last season, spending much of the 2024 campaign at Triple-A Columbus where he slashed .240/.321/.330 with 47 RBIs and 30 steals.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 30-year-old once served as the Guardians' starting center fielder thanks to his elite defense - Straw won a Gold Glove in 2022 - but he hasn't hit much at the major-league level.Straw is signed through 2026 with a $6-million salary in 2025 and $7 million in '26. He also has club options of $8 million and $8.5 million attached to his contract for the '27 and '28 seasons, respectively.

KANSAS CITY, MO - APRIL 07: Myles Straw #7 of the Cleveland Guardians rounds third and scores the first run against the Kansas City Royals in the third inning during Opening Day at Kauffman Stadium on April 7, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Blue Jays acquire Straw, international bonus money from Guardians

The New York Mets are bringing back Jesse Winker, agreeing to a deal with the 31-year-old outfiel...

The New York Mets are bringing back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4022" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4022">Jesse Winker</a>, agreeing to a deal with the 31-year-old outfielder, the club announced Friday.Winker's deal is for $7.5 million with a chance to reach $9 million via bonuses, according to the <a href="https://x.com/Joelsherman1/status/1879962536252186981">New York Post's Joel Sherman</a><a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1879959744359854428">.</a>Winker slashed .243/.318/.365 with three home runs and 13 RBIs in 44 games for the Mets after they acquired him from the Washington Nationals before last season's trade deadline.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Overall, the Buffalo native hit 14 homers with a .764 OPS (118 OPS+) in 2024. The left-handed hitter fared much better against right-handed pitching, slashing .258/.366/.422 with 13 homers and 49 RBIs last season.The one-time All-Star should provide the Mets with solid left-handed at-bats at designated hitter while also providing them with another outfield option alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4979" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4979">Jose Siri</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2442" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2442">Starling Marte</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4063" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4063">Tyrone Taylor</a>.

SAN DIEGO, CA - AUGUST 24: Jesse Winker #3 of the New York Mets plays during a baseball game against the San Diego Padres on August 24, 2024 at Petco Park in San Diego, California.

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Mets, Winker agree to 1-year deal reportedly worth $7.5M

The New York Mets want a decision from free agent Pete Alonso as soon as possible.  The Mets let ...

The New York Mets want a decision from free agent <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a> as soon as possible.The Mets let the first baseman's camp know they need an answer about a deal in the near future so they have enough time to pivot to different options before spring training, reports the <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/01/15/sports/mets-pushing-pete-alonso-for-an-answer-with-clocking-ticking/">New York Post's Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman</a>.Alonso and the Mets are making progress on a deal, which is believed to be for three years and include at least one opt-out, but nothing was agreed to as of Wednesday, according to Heyman and Sherman.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York has already discussed the possibility of other free agents taking reps at first base if a deal cannot be reached with the four-time All-Star, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/insider/story/_/id/43397996/mlb-offseason-2025-rumors-updates-mid-winter-bregman-alonso-trades">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.Alternative options are unknown, but the Mets <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3190734" href="https://thescore.com/news/3190734">reportedly</a> checked in with the Toronto Blue Jays about the availability of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a>The Blue Jays are also one of three teams engaged in conversations with Alonso about a deal, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6067080/2025/01/16/pete-alonso-mets-blue-jays/">Will Sammon and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic</a>.Alonso is one of the top remaining free agents after he hit 34 home runs with 88 RBIs and a .788 OPS (123 OPS+) for the Mets last season.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 14: Pete Alonso #20 of the New York Mets reacts after a two-run home run against the Colorado Rockies during the fourth inning at Citi Field on July 14, 2024 in the Queens borough of New York City.

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Report: Mets tell Alonso they need decision soon

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The NASCAR team owned by Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. will attempt to ...

<div>
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The NASCAR team owned by Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. will attempt to make its Cup Series debut in <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/daytona-500">the Daytona 500</a> with a champion driver and a partnership with a Grammy Award-winning artist.
JR Motorsports has entered reigning Xfinity Series champion <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/justin-allgaier">Justin Allgaier</a> into next month's season-opening “Great American Race” in a Chevrolet sponsored by the whiskey label created by 10-time Grammy winner Chris Stapleton. Traveller Whiskey is a collaborative blend created by Buffalo Trace Distillery with Stapleton.
Allgaier will have to qualify for the Daytona 500 — a race his boss has won twice — on either speed in time trials or via one of the qualifying races. It marks the first time in JRM history the team has entered a race in the Cup Series, and Earnhardt said the team will be focused on qualifying via speed powered by a Hendrick Motorsports engine.
<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>
The deal came together when Stapleton, who has a friendship with Rick Hendrick, approached Hendrick about a NASCAR collaboration with Traveller Whiskey. Hendrick put Stapleton in touch with Earnhardt as he also has an ownership stake with JRM.
“We had this whiskey and I always have ”pie in the sky" dreams of things to do and we knocked on the door a little bit," Stapleton told The Associated Press. “If I'm being 100% honest, I just thought it would be cool to see whiskey on a car. And he brought up Dale Jr. and I was like ‘Why wouldn’t we do that if we can?' This is a lot of my audience, for both whiskey and country music, and what (Earnhardt) does in auto racing.”
The third-party introduction is helping Earnhardt and his sister, Kelley Earnhardt-Miller, attempt to make a dream come true for their race team.
“I shared with Rick that for a very long time that I had a dream, at one time in my life, of entering the Daytona 500 as a car owner,” Earnhardt told AP. “Rick presented the opportunity to connect with Chris and his team, they were interested in marketing in our sport, and Rick knew that I was wanting to fulfill this opportunity. It was like two people that wanted the same thing.”
The Earnhardts have led JRM to 88 Xfinity Series victories with drivers Chase Elliott, William Byron, Tyler Reddick and Allgaier last November. JRM is starting its 24th year of overall competition with four cars in NASCAR's second-tier Xfinity Series.
JRM has never attempted to enter a Cup race. The Earnhardts have expressed interest in moving up to Cup competition, but have balked at purchasing the eight-figure charter needed to compete.
Earnhardt said there have been no discussions on future Cup ventures for JRM beyond trying to make the Daytona 500. It will be a high-pressure situation for the Greg Ives-led team as Earnhardt has warned them he and his sister will be hovering from the moment the car is unloaded at Daytona Beach International Speedway through every mile it turns on the track.
Stapleton also plans to attend what will be his first Daytona 500. He and Earnhardt said the musician was intricately involved in the car design, which Stapleton saw in person for the first time Wednesday.
“I'm a bit of a retro guy, I like things that are kind of a throwback,” Stapleton said. “So I was looking for a little bit of that flavor in the car, but also something that really blended JR Motorsports and Traveller Whiskey. It had to look like both of those things and I think we achieved it.”
Aside from promoting his whiskey, Stapleton is hoping the Daytona 500 turns into a core memory of his accomplished career.
“I wanted to build a thing — I wanted to see the car and I want to see it run. And that, for me, would be the victory,” Stapleton said. "And I want the moment of it. It's just like going to the Super Bowl and getting to stay on the sidelines. That's what I want. I want the moment, the moment of the synergy that is happening.
“Whatever comes of it, we still did it.”
Allgaier is the defending Xfinity Series champion and former Cup Series driver who ran the Daytona 500 in 2014 and 2015. His most recent time in a Cup car was last May as the substitute driver for Kyle Larson as Larson attempted to compete in both the Coca-Cola 600 and Indianapolis 500 on the same day.
Allgaier started the Coke 600 for Larson and was credited with a 13th-place finish when the race was called for rain.
“This is an incredible honor to be driving JR Motorsports’ inaugural entry into the Cup Series,” said Allgaier. “Entering into the Daytona 500 has been a goal of this company for a long time and I know that we are going to have everything we need to go out and contend for the win. This is going to be special for sure.”
___
AP auto racing: <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing">https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing</a>
</div>

AVONDALE, ARIZONA - NOVEMBER 09: Justin Allgaier, driver of the #7 BRANDT Chevrolet, poses for a photo after winning the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race a at Phoenix Raceway on November 09, 2024 in Avondale, Arizona.

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JR Motorsports enters Allgaier into Daytona 500

The San Francisco Giants traded catcher Blake Sabol to the Boston Red Sox for international bonus...

The San Francisco Giants traded catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15437" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15437">Blake Sabol</a> to the Boston Red Sox for international bonus pool space, the teams announced Wednesday.Sabol was designated for assignment Saturday to make room for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/195">Justin Verlander</a> on San Francisco's 40-man roster.The 27-year-old appeared in 11 big-league games last season, slashing .313/.421/.375 with two doubles in 38 plate appearances. The California native posted a .728 OPS with 11 home runs and 54 RBIs in 97 Triple-A games for Sacramento.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sabol got into 110 games for the Giants in 2023, slashing .235/.301/.394 with 13 homers and 44 RBIs in 344 plate appearances.The Red Sox are expected to begin the 2025 campaign with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12269" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12269">Connor Wong</a> as their starter behind the dish and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14562">Carlos Narvaez</a> as the backup.Boston designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15649" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15649">Chase Shugart</a> for assignment to make room for Sabol on its 40-man roster.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 25: Blake Sabol #2 of the San Francisco Giants hits a walk-off two-run home run in the bottom of the ninth inning to defeat the St. Louis Cardinals 5-4 at Oracle Park on April 25, 2023 in San Francisco, California.

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Giants trade Sabol to Red Sox 

It looks like the New York Mets are interested in acquiring another one of baseball's brightest s...

It looks like the New York Mets are interested in acquiring another one of baseball's brightest stars.New York spoke with Toronto about <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a>'s availability this winter, sources told <a href="https://sny.tv/articles/mets-holding-line-pete-alonso">SNY's Andy Martino</a>.The discussions were mostly "checking in," according to Martino who reported the "fit remains in the realm of fantasy baseball" at this point.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sources also told Martino the Blue Jays are still weighing whether to extend their first baseman. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3186113" href="https://thescore.com/news/3186113">Guerrero reportedly</a> gave Toronto a deadline of the first day of spring training to have a deal completed.The 25-year-old pending free-agent and the Blue Jays are reportedly $100 million apart, with Guerrero seeking at least a $450 million extension after he posted a .940 OPS with 30 home runs, 44 doubles, and 103 RBIs last season.New York's situation with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, its starting first baseman since 2019, also remains unresolved. The Mets are holding the line on the length and terms of a short-term offer to Alonso, sources told Martino.Alonso's camp has reportedly offered to accept a three-year deal with opt-outs from the Mets. The offer hasn't been given to any other teams.Alonso, 30, slashed .240/.329/.459 with 34 homers and 88 RBI last season.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 10: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays looks on from the on-deck circle against the San Francisco Giants in the top of the fifth inning at Oracle Park on July 10, 2024 in San Francisco, California.

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Report: Mets checked in with Blue Jays about Guerrero this winter

Roki Sasaki won't be taking his services to the Bay Area, New York City, or the Lone Star State. ...

Roki Sasaki won't be taking his services to the Bay Area, New York City, or the Lone Star State.The free-agent pitcher informed the San Francisco Giants he won't be signing with them, general manager Zack Minasian said Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/PavlovicNBCS/status/1878874798782288075">Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area</a>.Sasaki has also crossed the New York Yankees off his list, a source told <a href="https://x.com/JackCurryYES/status/1878888394060976626">YES Network's Jack Curry</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The New York Mets aren't expected to sign Sasaki either, a source told <a href="https://x.com/martinonyc/status/1878889408805650596">SNY's Andy Martino</a>.The Texas Rangers have also been informed that they are out of the running to land Sasaki, sources told <a href="https://x.com/kennlandry/status/1878910941162840501">MLB.com's Kennedi Landry</a>.All four teams were among a short list of clubs to meet with the 23-year-old before he becomes eligible to sign with an MLB club.The Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays reportedly also sat down with the Japanese pitching phenom.The Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres are reportedly believed to be pursuing Sasaki as well. His agent, Joel Wolfe, said Sasaki has received interest from 20 teams this offseason.Sasaki has until Jan. 23 to sign with an MLB team after the international signing period opens Wednesday.The right-hander posted a 2.10 ERA and 11.5 K/9 in four seasons for the Chiba Lotte Marines of Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball.

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 20: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan reacts after an out in the third inning against Team Mexico during the World Baseball Classic Semifinals at loanDepot park on March 20, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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Sasaki won't choose Giants, reportedly rules out Yankees, Mets, Rangers

Nick Castellanos might have provided the hottest MVP take of all time.  The Philadelphia Phillies...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2880" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2880">Nick Castellanos</a> might have provided the hottest MVP take of all time.The Philadelphia Phillies outfielder believes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1660" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1660">Jose Iglesias</a> of the New York Mets should've been named 2024 National League MVP over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>."MVP of the National League," Castellanos called Iglesias during an appearance on <a href="https://x.com/JomboyMedia/status/1878831065193914591">"The Chris Rose Rotation."</a><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"If you're looking at the MVP as having the most weight on creating wins for your team, there's no other player that has had that much weight as Jose Iglesias."Castellanos credited Iglesias for bringing his "Latin spark" to the Mets, which he believes contributed to an organization-wide turnaround.The Mets were nine games under .500 when they called Iglesias up from Triple-A last May. The veteran infielder immediately went on a heater, hitting .409 across his first six games en route to a terrific year at the dish where he slashed .337/.381/.448 in 85 games.Iglesias also recorded a popular song titled "OMG," which became a rallying cry for the Mets as they turned around their season and reached the National League Championship Series.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xRzHD9i6CKQ?si=Fuy42ae8iA-rRBvV" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>Castellanos understands his opinion might draw the ire of some people, most notably some statisticians."I'm not a sabermetrician, I'm a baseball player," Castellanos said. "I'm saying that him going to the Mets and being himself got the organization to move in one direction. Shohei Ohtani played a huge part in the Dodgers winning. I don't know if he's the sole purpose of the Dodgers moving in one direction. That doesn't mean that what Shohei did isn't record-book-worthy and he's not an amazing baseball player. If I'm starting a team, I pick Shohei over Jose, there's no doubt about it, I'm not stupid, but the way that I saw baseball last year through my eyeballs, Jose Iglesias is the National League MVP."Iglesias didn't receive any NL MVP votes last season.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 09: Jose Iglesias #11 of the New York Mets celebrates after beating the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1 in Game Four of the Division Series at Citi Field on October 09, 2024 in New York City.

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Castellanos: Mets' Iglesias deserved NL MVP over Ohtani 

No one can say the Toronto Blue Jays aren't trying.  Blue Jays officials held a meeting with priz...

No one can say the Toronto Blue Jays aren't trying.Blue Jays officials held a meeting with prized free-agent pitcher Roki Sasaki last week in Toronto, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6056160/2025/01/13/roki-sasaki-toronto-blue-jays-meeting/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Andy McCullough</a>.Sasaki has been visiting with teams as he'll be eligible to sign a big-league deal starting Wednesday when the international signing period opens.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 23-year-old must decide on his final destination before his posting deadline Jan. 23. He reportedly met with six teams prior to sitting down with the Blue Jays. His agent, Joel Wolfe, also recently said 20 clubs pursued his client this offseason.Sasaki posted a 29-15 record with a 2.10 ERA and 11.5 K/9 in 394 2/3 innings for the Chiba Lotte Marines of Japan's Pacific League.The youngster will also be light on the pocketbook of the team that signs him as he's only eligible to ink a minor-league deal with a capped signing bonus of around $7.5 million due to his age.Sasaki is the latest big name the Blue Jays have targeted in recent years after missing out on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> last offseason, as well as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> this winter.Toronto has been unable to land a franchise-type player to join pending free agents <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>. Its biggest offseason moves have included adding second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a>, as well as relievers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3943" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3943">Yimi García</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12325" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12325">Nick Sandlin</a>.The Blue Jays' rotation entering 2025 includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3634">Kevin Gausman</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12435" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12435">Bowden Francis</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17237">Yariel Rodriguez</a>.

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 20: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan pitches during the 2023 World Baseball Classic Semifinal game against Team Mexico at loanDepot Park on March 20, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Blue Jays, Sasaki held meeting in Toronto

The New York Yankees are looking to move one of their starting rotation members.  New York is sho...

The New York Yankees are looking to move one of their starting rotation members.New York is shopping right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4101" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4101">Marcus Stroman</a> in an attempt to shed his $18-million salary, according to <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2025/01/07/mlb-rumors-pete-alonso-alex-bregman-news/77499267007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>.Stroman appears to be the odd man out after the Yankees added <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a> this offseason. The New York native posted his highest ERA (4.31) in six years while also logging a career-high walk rate in a subpar 2024 season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Stroman, 33, fell out of favor with the Yankees in the postseason, making zero appearances during their run to the World Series.The hurler owns a 3.72 ERA in 1,458 1/3 innings across his 10-year career, which has included stints with the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and the Yankees.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 11: Marcus Stroman #0 of the New York Yankees heads to the dugout before taking on the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on June 11, 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Report: Yankees shopping Stroman

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to have their sights on two of the biggest remaining stars available...

The Toronto Blue Jays appear to have their sights on two of the biggest remaining stars available in free agency.Toronto is showing strong interest in third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> and is among eight teams eyeing first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, according to <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/columnist/bob-nightengale/2025/01/07/mlb-rumors-pete-alonso-alex-bregman-news/77499267007/">USA Today's Bob Nightengale</a>.Bregman is one of the top free agents still available in free agency. The 30-year-old is a two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion who posted an .848 OPS with 191 home runs and 663 RBIs during nine seasons with the Houston Astros.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He'd be an upgrade for the Blue Jays, who project to start defensive specialist <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10877" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10877">Ernie Clement</a> at the hot corner.Bregman has also been linked to the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox this winter after he turned down a six-year, $156-million deal from the Astros.Alonso could fill Toronto's need for a power bat after it finished 26th in homers last season. The 30-year-old has hit 226 round-trippers since 2019, which ranks second in the big leagues behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4773" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4773">Aaron Judge</a>.The Blue Jays already have <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> as their starting first baseman, but Alonso could slot in as the team's designated hitter, or Guerrero could shift to third base, where he has 110 games of big-league experience.The "Polar Bear" has also been connected to the Red Sox and the New York Mets this offseason.The Blue Jays have mostly been quiet throughout the winter. They traded for second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8766" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8766">Andrés Giménez</a> and reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12325" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12325">Nick Sandlin</a> and signed right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3943" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3943">Yimi García</a> to a two-year deal.Toronto reportedly made a huge offer to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> before he signed with the Mets. The club has also been linked to free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a>.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 27: Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros runs out an RBI sacrifice fly ball during the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 27, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Report: Jays have strong interest in Bregman, among teams eyeing Alonso

The New York Yankees' busy offseason might not be over.  New York continues to discuss a trade wi...

The New York Yankees' busy offseason might not be over.New York continues to discuss a trade with the San Diego Padres for infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10597" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10597">Luis Arraez</a>, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/mlb/insider/story/_/id/43261112/teams-winning-mlb-offseason-need-move-dodgers-yankees-mets-braves">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.The Padres have reportedly been discussing a deal for the three-time batting champ in an attempt to free up payroll to improve other areas of need.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>New York has a need at second base after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4975" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4975">Gleyber Torres</a> departed for the Detroit Tigers in free agency. Arraez has spent much of his career at second base, though he played most of his defensive reps at first for the Padres last season.The 27-year-old Arraez is one of the best contact hitters in baseball, authoring a career .323 batting average with just 194 strikeouts in 2,858 plate appearances.He's projected to earn $14.6 million through arbitration in 2025 before becoming a free agent in 2026. It's been a busy winter for the defending American League champions, who were unable to re-sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> but have acquired <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4899" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4899">Cody Bellinger</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1851" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1851">Paul Goldschmidt</a>, among others.The Yankees have also reportedly inquired with the Los Angeles Dodgers about the availability of another second baseman, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8195">Gavin Lux</a>.

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 11: Luis Arraez #4 of the San Diego Padres flips the ball for an out in the third inning during Game 5 of the Division Series presented by Booking.com between the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on Friday, October 11, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Report: Yankees, Padres continue to discuss Arraez trade

The Seattle Mariners and Baltimore Orioles might be looking to swing a big trade.  The two teams ...

The Seattle Mariners and Baltimore Orioles might be looking to swing a big trade.The two teams have discussed a swap involving three-time All-Star right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5526" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5526">Luis Castillo</a> in recent days, according to <a href="https://x.com/MLBNetwork/status/1876275602614870091">MLB Network's Jon Morosi</a>.Baltimore is among a group of teams linked to the 32-year-old pitcher who has been generating trade interest much of the offseason. The Orioles are expected to use <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5202">Zach Eflin</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8585">Dean Kremer</a>, as well as offseason additions <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1117" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1117">Charlie Morton</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18723" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18723">Tomoyuki Sugano</a>, in their 2025 rotation.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets have also been connected to the hurler at various points this winter. The Red Sox appear to be out of the running after signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a> following a failed attempt to acquire Castillo.Seattle has been fielding calls for Castillo as it attempts to free up payroll to improve an offense that finished 21st in runs scored and 29th in batting average last season.Castillo has been a top-of-the-rotation arm for the Mariners since they acquired him from the Cincinnati Reds at the 2022 trade deadline. He's authored a 3.43 ERA and 9.7 K/9 in 437 2/3 innings for Seattle.The Dominican pitcher is owed $72 million over the next three seasons. His contract also includes a $25-million vesting option for 2028 that is based on how much time he is injured between 2025-27 and how many innings he throws in 2027.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - APRIL 30: Luis Castillo #58 of the Seattle Mariners reacts during the third inning against the Atlanta Braves at T-Mobile Park on April 30, 2024 in Seattle, Washington.

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Report: Orioles, Mariners talked Castillo trade in recent days

With most top free agents already signed this offseason, here's an early look at the top 20 playe...

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Ranking next winter's top 20 MLB free agents

The Chicago Cubs signed left-hander Caleb Thielbar to a one-year contract Tuesday, the team annou...

The Chicago Cubs signed left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3466" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3466">Caleb Thielbar</a> to a one-year contract Tuesday, the team announced.Thielbar is an eight-year MLB veteran who spent his entire career with the Minnesota Twins.The 37-year-old authored a 5.32 ERA and 10.1 K/9 in 59 appearances for the Twins last season while posting career-worst marks in WHIP (1.56) and walks per nine innings (4.6).<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Thielbar joins fellow lefties <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17195" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17195">Luke Little</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8121" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8121">Rob Zastryzny</a> in a Cubs bullpen that finished 11th in K/9 and 12th in ERA last season.

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 19: Caleb Thielbar #56 of the Minnesota Twins gets set to throw a pitch in the tenth inning during a game against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on September 19, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Cubs, Thielbar agree to 1-year deal

The Houston Astros agreed to a minor-league deal with right-hander Miguel Castro, a source told K...

The Houston Astros agreed to a minor-league deal with right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4793" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4793">Miguel Castro</a>, a source told <a href="https://x.com/AriA1exander/status/1873914881281528184">KPRC 2 Houston's Ari Alexander</a>. Castro reportedly received an invitation to big-league spring training and could earn $1.5 million, plus performance bonuses, if he pitches in the majors.Castro spent the last two campaigns with the Arizona Diamondbacks, authoring a 4.60 ERA and 7.8 K/9 in 86 appearances. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 30-year-old reliever only appeared in 11 games last season after missing most of the campaign with shoulder inflammation. He was released by the D-Backs in August.Castro joins the seventh team of his 10-year career, during which he's struck out 410 in 460 2/3 innings. He'll help fortify an Astros bullpen that's been a strength in recent seasons.Astros' projected bullpen in 2025<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>PLAYER</th>
<th>THROWS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Josh Hader</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bryan Abreu</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ryan Pressly</td>
<td> R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tayler Scott</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bryan King</td>
<td>L</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kaleb Ort</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Forrest Whitley</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Miguel Castro</td>
<td>R</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Houston has been busy this winter, trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a>, signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3836" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3836">Christian Walker</a>, and acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9550" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9550">Isaac Paredes</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8748" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8748">Taylor Trammell</a>.

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - APRIL 15: Miguel Castro #42 of the Arizona Diamondbacks delivers a pitch against the Chicago Cubs at Chase Field on April 15, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day.

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Report: Astros, Miguel Castro agree to minor-league deal

Roki Sasaki received a lot of interest this winter - and the Japanese pitching phenom is consider...

Roki Sasaki received a lot of interest this winter - and the Japanese pitching phenom is considering his next steps.20 clubs pursued Sasaki, using video presentations, powerpoints, and books as a way to entice the pitcher, his agent Joel Wolfe said on Monday, according to <a href="https://x.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1873886693885116434">Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet</a>."It was like the Roki film festival," Wolfe said, before adding that his client gave interested teams a homework assignment to see how they could communicate with him.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sasaki recently met with some of the interested teams at the Wasserman Media Group offices, where his agent works, to create a level playing field. The 23-year-old has since returned to Japan and might want to visit one or two cities before making a final decision, Wolfe said, according to <a href="https://x.com/timbhealey/status/1873886462393147823">Newsday's Tim Healey</a>."He is definitely driving the ship and calling the shots," Wolfe said.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Joel Wolfe, agent for Roki Sasaki, said the Japanese pitcher requested that no players be involved in initial meetings with clubs. So no, Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto were not part of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dodgers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dodgers</a> initial pitch to the RHP.— Mike DiGiovanna (@MikeDiGiovanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeDiGiovanna/status/1873887840825991486?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers were reportedly among the teams to meet with Sasaki, while the Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Red Sox were not offered the opportunity to sit down with the pitcher.Sasaki is highly coveted in free agency after he authored a 2.10 ERA and 11.5 K/9 in 64 appearances for the Chiba Lotte Marines of the Japan Pacific League between 2021 and 2024. He also opted to pursue an MLB opportunity before the age of 25, meaning he'll cost teams far less money to sign because he's tied to international bonus pool restrictions and must sign as a minor-league free agent."He's not coming here to be rich or to get a huge contract," Wolfe said, according to <a href="https://x.com/billplunkettocr/status/1873896565104140738">Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register</a>."He wants to be great. He wants to be one of the greatest ever. ... To be that, he knows he has to challenge himself ... "The right-hander cannot sign with an MLB team until the international signing period begins Jan. 15. He also has a posting window that closes Jan. 24.Wolfe said his client is uncertain about signing Jan. 15 but will ink a deal before the posting deadline, according to <a href="https://x.com/timbhealey/status/1873888323854622900">Healey</a>.

BUNKYO CITY, JAPAN - MARCH 11: Roki Sasaki #14 of Team Japan poses for a photo after their Game 6 of Pool B win over Team Czech Republic at Tokyo Dome on Saturday, March 11, 2023 in Bunkyo City, Japan.

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Sasaki's agent: Client pondering next steps after interest from 20 teams

It didn't take long for Joc Pederson to throw himself into a long-heated rivalry between the Texa...

It didn't take long for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2517" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2517">Joc Pederson</a> to throw himself into a long-heated rivalry between the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros."I've played the Astros a couple of times in the World Series. They've put together a nice little run, and it's coming to an end," Pederson said during his introductory press conference Monday, according to<a href="https://x.com/FoulTerritoryTV/status/1873869215050194980"> Foul Territory</a>."It's time for us (the Rangers) to take over the West."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Pederson was inked to a two-year, $37-million contract by the Rangers, giving Texas another veteran player with World Series wins under his belt.The 32-year-old knows what it's like to beat the Astros in the World Series. He did it as a member of the Atlanta Braves in 2021, which came one year after he captured his first World Series ring with the Los Angeles Dodgers.Pederson was also part of the 2017 Dodgers squad that lost to the Astros in the Fall Classic.Texas most recently won the World Series in 2023, but only after losing the division crown to the Astros on the final day of that season. The Rangers haven't finished first in the AL West since 2016, with the Astros winning the division in seven of the next eight campaigns.Pederson believes the Rangers have what it takes to take the crown from the Astros during the upcoming campaign, but he also has his sights set on a third World Series ring."There's lots of things that are going in the right direction for the Rangers to be on top of this division," Pederson said. "I told CY (Chris Young) that all we've got to do is get to the playoffs. You let (manager Bruce) Bochy do what Bochy does in the playoffs, it usually comes well, and then you add in a sprinkle of (Corey) Seager in there, and the next thing you know we're all walking around with more rings."

CLEVELAND, OHIO - AUGUST 07, 2024: Joc Pederson #3 of the Arizona Diamondbacks looks on during the first inning in game one of a doubleheader against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on August 07, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Rangers' Pederson: Astros' AL West reign 'coming to an end'

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Bryan Mcwilliam

News Editor

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Brandon Wile

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