The Toronto Blue Jays are attempting to shop in the premium aisle for the second straight offseas...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays are attempting to shop in the premium aisle for the second straight offseason.</p><p>But the question remains: Will their card be declined?</p><p>It's early in the MLB offseason, but it appears the Blue Jays have money to spend, and they're said to be involved in everything. After the 2024 season, it's an encouraging way to enter the winter.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3132774" href="https://thescore.com/news/3132774">reportedly</a> among a handful of teams that met with star outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> and his agent, Scott Boras. While it's reassuring that the Blue Jays were granted an audience with Soto and Boras, it still feels like a bit of Hail Mary that he'll spurn the New York Yankees or New York Mets to head to Toronto.</p><p>If the Blue Jays fail to sign Soto, here's what they should do.</p><h3>Make Guerrero an offer he can't refuse</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746301/cropped_GettyImages-2171273454.jpg?ts=1727011800" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746301/w220xh124_GettyImages-2171273454.jpg?ts=1727011800 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746301/w320xh180_GettyImages-2171273454.jpg?ts=1727011800 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746301/w640xh360_GettyImages-2171273454.jpg?ts=1727011800 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746301/w768xh432_GettyImages-2171273454.jpg?ts=1727011800 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746301/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2171273454.jpg?ts=1727011800 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brandon Sloter / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>You have to believe <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> is watching ownership pursue Soto and wondering if the money will be there for him.</p><p>Signing Guerrero to a long-term contract should be the club's top priority, regardless of what it plans to do when it comes to Soto. Guerrero stated his desire to spend the rest of his career in Toronto on a number of occasions, and he's coming off his second All-MLB first-team nod. He has a chance to be one of the most prolific hitters in franchise history if he spends the remainder of his career in Toronto.</p><p>What message does it send if you're not willing to spend on your homegrown star?</p><p>Puzzlingly, it seems like the front office is either playing its cards close to the vest or doesn't completely believe that Guerrero is one of MLB's elite offensive talents. Following the 2024 season, Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro said Guerrero had "an opportunity to be a generational player." Even if Shapiro doesn't believe Guerrero's ceiling is that high, it was a bizarre way of saying so.</p><p>Guerrero has one year of team control remaining before free agency, and there's no indication that the two sides are close to reaching a long-term deal. With Guerrero's running mate, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, also set to reach free agency at the conclusion of 2025, the Blue Jays are faced with the realistic scenario of both homegrown stars leaving for nothing more than a compensatory draft pick.</p><p>That simply can't happen. There's no way of selling that to the fans. </p><p>Guerrero has the talent to lead the club for at least the next decade. The Blue Jays must find a way to keep him, and if they can do so, it will be a good way to attract other free agents to Toronto.</p><p>Of course, Guerrero will likely be the top free-agent position player next winter, so it will take an enormous offer to prevent him from testing the market.</p><h3>Try to sign Santander, Adames</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740354/cropped_GettyImages-2165180682.jpg?ts=1725048870" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740354/w220xh124_GettyImages-2165180682.jpg?ts=1725048870 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740354/w320xh180_GettyImages-2165180682.jpg?ts=1725048870 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740354/w640xh360_GettyImages-2165180682.jpg?ts=1725048870 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740354/w768xh432_GettyImages-2165180682.jpg?ts=1725048870 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/740354/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2165180682.jpg?ts=1725048870 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">G. Fiume / Getty Images</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's unclear if the front office will receive the green light from ownership to spend aggressively if the Jays can't land Soto. After the non-tender deadline, the team currently sits roughly $40 million under the first luxury-tax threshold. If Toronto gets approval to spend, targeting former Baltimore Orioles slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a> and former Milwaukee Brewers shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/4784" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/4784">Willy Adames</a> would make a great deal of sense. Both players are attached to draft-pick compensation but would give the team an immediate boost. The Blue Jays - with their poor ability to draft and develop - should not be dissuaded from signing players who rejected qualifying offers.</p><p>Santander is coming off a career season in which he hit 44 home runs. The 30-year-old may not be able to replicate that level of power production, but he should be able to comfortably settle in as a 30-plus home-run hitter for the next several years. And while he doesn't provide much defensive value in right field, he can slot in at designated hitter. The bottom line is he would fill a massive need for the Blue Jays' lineup.</p><p>Adding Adames, meanwhile, would be interesting on a couple of levels. First, he could initially slot in at third base for as long as Bichette remains on the roster. Adames has the arm strength to handle the longer throw. The Blue Jays could then slide him over to shortstop if Bichette leaves in free agency or if the club trades him at some point. Adames owns a career 109 wRC+ and eclipsed 3.0 fWAR in five of the last six seasons. He'll play the majority of the 2025 season at the age of 29 and should have a handful of strong years left.</p><h3>Bolster the starting rotation</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754034/cropped_GettyImages-2176278607.jpg?ts=1730992764" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754034/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176278607.jpg?ts=1730992764 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754034/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176278607.jpg?ts=1730992764 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754034/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176278607.jpg?ts=1730992764 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754034/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176278607.jpg?ts=1730992764 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754034/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176278607.jpg?ts=1730992764 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The rotation looks to be in pretty good shape heading into 2025 with <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/4426" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4426">Chris Bassitt</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a>, and 2024 breakout <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12435" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12435">Bowden Francis</a> slotted in. But Bassitt is only under contract for one more season, and Gausman is set to become a free agent following the 2026 season. Berríos also has an opt-out clause to become a free agent at the end of 2026.</p><p>Furthermore, injuries to Alek Manoah, Ricky Tiedemann, Brandon Barriera, and Landen Maroudis thinned the club's major-league-ready rotation depth. An injury to any key pitcher would put the Blue Jays in a very precarious position in 2025.</p><p>There are a handful of impact starting pitchers on the free-agent market this offseason. Left-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4259">Max Fried</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5351" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5351">Blake Snell</a> headline the class, as well as former NL Cy Young winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a>. The Blue Jays routinely add starting pitching through trades and free agency as their homegrown pitchers struggle to develop and graduate to the MLB level. Signing one of Fried, Snell, or Burnes wouldn't be foreign territory for Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins.</p><p>A number of quality secondary options are available as well. If the Blue Jays spend big on bats, adding one of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8193" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8193">Walker Buehler</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9542" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9542">Shane Bieber</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5646" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5646">Jack Flaherty</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2345" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2345">Nathan Eovaldi</a>, who each come with a little more risk and a lower ceiling, would cost less.</p><h3>Bring in late-inning relievers</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750059/cropped_GettyImages-2177169554.jpg?ts=1729023241" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750059/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177169554.jpg?ts=1729023241 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750059/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177169554.jpg?ts=1729023241 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750059/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177169554.jpg?ts=1729023241 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750059/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177169554.jpg?ts=1729023241 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/750059/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177169554.jpg?ts=1729023241 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Orlando Ramirez / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Blue Jays had one of the worst bullpens in the majors last season, and that depth took another hit Friday when the club non-tendered closer Jordan Romano. </p><p>Toronto will have almost no success next season if the bullpen isn't fixed. </p><p>Shapiro and Atkins have historically been skittish about committing term to relievers. However, with concerns about their job security beyond 2025, this might be the time to try something different. Adding two of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5525">Tanner Scott</a>, <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/8239" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8239">Clay Holmes</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/5436" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/5436">Carlos Estévez</a> would go a long way in the late innings.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 02: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees jokes with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays at second base after his double during the first inning at Yankee Stadium on August 02, 2024 in New York City.

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How Blue Jays must pivot if Soto pursuit fails

The Atlanta Braves non-tendered right-hander Griffin Canning, the club announced Friday.  The Bra...

<p>The Atlanta Braves non-tendered right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9562" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9562">Griffin Canning</a>, the club announced Friday.</p><p>The Braves also non-tendered outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5552" href="/mlb/players/5552">Ramón Laureano</a>, right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10584" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10584">Huascar Ynoa</a>, right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17213" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17213">Royber Salinas</a>, and left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13631" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13631">Ray Kerr</a>.</p><p>The move to non-tender Canning comes on the heels of the Braves acquiring the 28-year-old from the Los Angeles Angels for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3605" href="/mlb/players/3605">Jorge Soler</a> on Oct. 31.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Canning was projected to earn $5.1 million in his final year of arbitration before free agency, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>. He posted a 6-13 record with a 5.19 ERA and 130 strikeouts across 171 2/3 innings for the Angels in 2024.</p>

ANAHEIM, CA - SEPTEMBER 28: Los Angeles Angels pitcher Griffin Canning (47) pitching during an MLB baseball game against the Texas Rangers played on September 28, 2024 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, CA.

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Braves non-tender recently acquired Canning

The Colorado Rockies non-tendered second baseman Brendan Rodgers and right-hander Cal Quantrill, ...

<p>The Colorado Rockies non-tendered second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5397" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5397">Brendan Rodgers</a> and right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8241" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8241">Cal Quantrill</a>, the club announced Friday.</p><p>Rodgers was projected to earn $5.5 million next season in his final year of arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><p>The 28-year-old was the third overall pick in the 2015 MLB draft. Rodgers posted a .726 OPS with 45 home runs, 92 doubles, and 197 RBIs over six seasons with the Rockies.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Quantrill was projected to make $9 million in his final season of arbitration. The Rockies acquired the 29-year-old from the Cleveland Guardians in November 2023.</p><p>Quantrill went 8-11 with a 4.98 ERA and 110 strikeouts across 148 1/3 innings in 2024.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 04: Brendan Rodgers #7 of the Colorado Rockies runs the bases after his solo homerun, to take a 1-0 lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers, during the first inning at Dodger Stadium on October 04, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.

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Rockies non-tender Rodgers, Quantrill

The Kansas City Royals acquired infielder Jonathan India and outfielder Joey Wiemer from the Cinc...

<p>The Kansas City Royals acquired infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12444" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12444">Jonathan India</a> and outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14181" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14181">Joey Wiemer</a> from the Cincinnati Reds for right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10668" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10668">Brady Singer</a>.</p><p>India spent the first four seasons of his career in Cincinnati, winning NL Rookie of the Year in 2021. The 27-year-old is under contract for $5.4 million in 2025 and has another year of arbitration eligibility before he's scheduled to reach free agency at the conclusion of the 2026 campaign.</p><p>India hit .248 with 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and a 105 OPS+ across 151 games for the Reds in 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Wiemer played 21 games for Cincinnati this past season, posting a .368 OPS in 26 at-bats. The Reds acquired the 25-year-old from the Milwaukee Brewers at the trade deadline.</p><p>The Royals drafted Singer in the first round in 2018. He's under team control for two more years.</p><p>The 28-year-old authored a strong season for Kansas City in 2024, posting a 9-13 record with a 3.71 ERA and 170 strikeouts across 179 2/3 innings. </p><p>Singer joins a Reds rotation that features <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12445" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12445">Hunter Greene</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12446" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12446">Nick Lodolo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16031" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16031">Andrew Abbott</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4479" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4479">Nick Martinez</a> heading into the 2025 season.<br> </p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 14: Jonathan India #6 of the Cincinnati Reds throws against the Minnesota Twins on September 14, 2024 at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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Reds trade India, Wiemer to Royals for Singer

The Pittsburgh Pirates non-tendered outfielder Bryan De La Cruz, outfielder/first baseman Connor ...

<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates non-tendered outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12666" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12666">Bryan De La Cruz</a>, outfielder/first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5743" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5743">Connor Joe</a>, and right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13940" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13940">Hunter Stratton</a>, the team announced Friday.</p><p>De La Cruz was projected to earn $4 million in his first year of arbitration eligibility, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>. The Pirates acquired the 27-year-old from the Miami Marlins at last season's trade deadline.</p><p>De La Cruz struggled with the Pirates, registering a .514 OPS with three home runs and 17 RBIs in 44 games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Joe, meanwhile, was projected to make $3.2 million in arbitration. The 32-year-old spent the last two seasons with the Pirates, hitting 20 home runs with 78 RBIs and a 99 OPS+ in 256 contests.</p><p>Stratton, 28, posted a 3.58 ERA with 33 strikeouts and one save in 37 2/3 innings in 2024.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 11: Bryan De La Cruz #41 of the Pittsburgh Pirates in action against the Miami Marlins at PNC Park on September11, 2024 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Pirates non-tender De La Cruz, Joe, Stratton

The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly speaking with clubs about trading 10-time Gold Glove winne...

<p>The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly speaking with clubs about trading 10-time Gold Glove winner Nolan Arenado, who's 33 years old and coming off his worst offensive campaign since 2013.</p><p>Arenado's track record of success should have teams lining up for his services, but his full no-trade clause and the $74 million remaining on the final three years of his contract ($10 million will be paid by the Colorado Rockies) could limit the number of suitors.</p><p>Here are five potential landing spots for the eight-time All-Star third baseman.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>New York Yankees</h3><p>The Yankees have more needs than just trying to reunite with Juan Soto. </p><p>New York's defensive struggles were exposed during the postseason, and adding Arenado at third base would go a long way toward helping the team take care of the baseball. A left side of the infield featuring Arenado and Anthony Volpe is as good as it gets. Both players ranked in the 95th percentile or better in outs above average last season.</p><p>Adding Arenado would allow Jazz Chisholm to move to his natural position at second base, or he could be deployed in center field depending on what else the Yankees do this winter.</p><p>Arenado wouldn't need to be leaned on offensively in New York, which would allow him to settle in lower in the lineup. While his power has dipped, he doesn't strike out (14.5 K%). Arenado's contract wouldn't be too difficult for the Yankees to absorb, and with three years remaining, he would fit into the window with the rest of the core.</p><h3>Houston Astros</h3><p>Astros general manager Dana Brown has been adamant that re-signing Alex Bregman is his top priority, but the third baseman could price himself out of Houston. </p><p>Bregman's been in talks with the Astros, but if the number is too rich for owner Jim Crane - who has a history of not conceding to the free-agent demands of homegrown players like Carlos Correa - Houston could turn to Arenado instead.</p><p>The Astros are still within their window of contention, so adding a veteran like Arenado if Bregman walks is a must considering Houston's lack of experienced in-house options and the thin crop of free-agent third basemen available outside of Bregman.</p><p>All of Arenado's power goes to the pull side, so playing 81 games hitting into the Crawford Boxes could help his home run totals climb back up.</p><p>Arenado's contract is going to easily be half the price of Bregman's, which would allow the Astros to focus on extending Kyle Tucker.</p><h3>Cincinnati Reds</h3><p>The Reds fell flat after entering 2024 with expectations of taking a step forward. Cincinnati got very little offensive production from the third base position, finishing 26th in wRC+ (74), 29th in fWAR (-1.9), and 24th in OPS (.652).</p><p>Highly touted prospect Noelvi Marte missed the first half of the season due to suspension and struggled upon returning. Marte finished the season with a 49 OPS+ and four home runs while having issues defensively.</p><p>The Reds could use a veteran presence to help stabilize an important position. The Cardinals might not be that keen about trading Arenado to a division rival, but perhaps if the return is good enough and the Reds are willing to take on most, if not all, of the remaining money on his contract. Cincinnati would likely also benefit from a veteran position player in the clubhouse and playing alongside Elly De La Cruz.</p><h3>Seattle Mariners</h3><p>The Mariners are frequently hesitant to take on big salary commitments, but Arenado should be firmly on their radar. Seattle struggled to replace the production at third base after trading Eugenio Suárez to the Arizona Diamondbacks ahead of last season. </p><p>Mariners third basemen were middle of the pack in wRC+ and finished 21st in home runs. Seattle is currently projected to open next season with Josh Rojas manning third base. Rojas is better served as a utility player, with his defensive versatility being more valuable at different positions.</p><p>The Mariners are under enormous pressure to put a disappointing 2024 campaign in the rearview mirror and return to postseason play. T-Mobile Park isn't an ideal offensive environment for any hitter, but adding Arenado to the lineup would provide another capable bat to complement Julio Rodríguez, Cal Raleigh, and Randy Arozarena in the lineup.</p><h3>Toronto Blue Jays</h3><p>It wouldn't be an offseason conversation if the Blue Jays weren't a part of it. Manager John Schneider used a rotating cast of players at third base last season as the Blue Jays had a difficult time replacing the consistent presence of Matt Chapman.</p><p>Ernie Clement is currently penciled in as the everyday third baseman heading into 2025. Clement is a useful player, but his .643 career OPS leaves something to be desired at a position where strong offensive numbers are usually a commodity.</p><p>Yes, Arenado is coming off a down offensive season, but he offers a much higher ceiling than Clement or any other player currently in the Blue Jays system.</p><p>Arenado's elite defensive play would be a welcome addition to a Blue Jays team that became accustomed to Chapman's brilliance at third base during his time in Toronto.</p><p>The window to win is rapidly closing in Toronto, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette just one year away from reaching free agency. Acquiring Arenado might be a bit of a desperation play, but it would be worth it if he can help elevate the Blue Jays back into the postseason mix in the competitive AL East.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WI - MAY 09: St. Louis Cardinals third base Nolan Arenado (28) looks back at the dugout during a game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the St. Louis Cardinals at American Family Field on May 9, 2024 in Milwaukee, WI.

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5 potential landing spots for Nolan Arenado

The Detroit Tigers have shown interest in signing third baseman Alex Bregman, Jon Heyman of the N...

<p>The Detroit Tigers have shown interest in signing third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a>, <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/11/21/sports/tigers-could-reunite-alex-bregman-with-ex-astros-manager-a-j-hinch/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a> reports.</p><p>Bregman is familiar with Tigers manager A.J. Hinch, who led the Houston Astros from 2014-2020.</p><p>The Tigers are currently expected to begin the 2025 campaign with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16144" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16144">Jace Jung</a> at third base. Jung made his MLB debut in 2024, registering a 102 wRC+ with five doubles and three RBIs in 79 at-bats.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bregman, 30, spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Astros, winning two World Series titles and making a pair of All-Star appearances.</p><p>The Astros have also made Bregman an offer as they hope to continue their relationship, Heyman adds. </p><p>Bregman rebounded from a slow start to 2024, finishing the campaign with 26 home runs, 30 doubles, 75 RBIs, and a 118 OPS+ across 145 games.</p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 02: Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros runs to first base after hitting a single against the Detroit Tigers in the second inning during Game Two of the Wild Card Series at Minute Maid Park on October 02, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Report: Tigers interested in Bregman

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani was named National League MVP, beating out New York Mets s...

<p>Los Angeles Dodgers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a> was named National League MVP, beating out New York Mets shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> and Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3555" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3555">Ketel Marte</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">From one MVP to another. 🥹<br><br>Clayton Kershaw announces Shohei Ohtani as the 2024 NL MVP! <a href="https://t.co/3TpN7Tczxv">pic.twitter.com/3TpN7Tczxv</a></p>— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dodgers/status/1859750716908372204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 30-year-old, who won AL MVP with the Los Angeles Angels in 2021 and 2023, joins Hall of Famer Frank Robinson as the only players in MLB history to win the award in both leagues.</p><p>Here's how the voting by members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America went:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Dr7by" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Dr7by/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="198" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>All three of Ohtani's MVP wins have come in unanimous fashion.</p><p>Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season and helped the Dodgers win the World Series.</p><p>Ohtani finished with 54 home runs, 134 runs scored, 130 RBIs, 59 stolen bases, and a 1.036 OPS across 636 at-bats in his first year with the Dodgers after signing a record 10-year, $700-million in the offseason.</p><p>"I didn't go into the season trying to strive to get the MVP award," Ohtani said through his interpreter. "I was more focused on being one of the guys with a new team with the Dodgers."</p><p>He joins an illustrious group of players who have three MVPs, including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1674">Mike Trout</a>, Albert Pujols, Mike Schmidt, Alex Rodriguez, Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Roy Campanella, Stan Musial, Joe DiMaggio, and Jimmie Foxx. Barry Bonds has the most MVP titles in MLB history, having won seven.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 20: Designated hitter Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates as he runs the bases after hitting his 52nd career home run against starting pitcher Kyle Freeland #21 of the Colorado Rockies during the fifth inning at Dodger Stadium on September 20, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Ohtani 2nd player to win MVP in both leagues after historic season

Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano is a candidate to be non-tendered ahead of Friday's deadli...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8362" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8362">Jordan Romano</a> is a candidate to be non-tendered ahead of Friday's deadline, sources told <a href="https://torontosun.com/sports/baseball/toronto-blue-jays/going-risk-letting-romano-free-agency">Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun</a>.</p><p>Romano is projected to earn $7.75 million in his final year of arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>. The 31-year-old is scheduled to become a free agent at the end of the 2025 campaign.</p><p>Romano struggled in 2024, registering a 6.59 ERA with eight saves across 15 appearances before going down with an elbow injury that eventually required arthroscopic surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Markham, Ontario native made his MLB debut for his hometown Blue Jays in 2019. Romano developed into a two-time All-Star, racking up 97 saves with a 2.29 ERA and 11.3 K/9 from 2020-2023.</p><p>Romano's 105 career saves are third on the franchise's all-time list behind Tom Henke and Duane Ward. </p>

TORONTO, ON - JUNE 23: Jordan Romano #68 of Toronto Blue Jays pitches to the Oakland Athletics during the ninth inning in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on June 23, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Report: Blue Jays considering non-tendering Romano

The St. Louis Cardinals have contacted teams about trading veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado, s...

<p>The St. Louis Cardinals have contacted teams about trading veteran third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2381" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2381">Nolan Arenado</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.stltoday.com/sports/professional/mlb/cardinals/by-fielding-trade-interest-in-all-star-nolan-arenado-cardinals-revisit-hot-corner-history/article_c8dca198-a755-11ef-8a84-a36e8f1399b6.html">Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>.</p><p>Arenado's contract carries a full no-trade clause, and he has yet to formally request a trade out of St. Louis, sources told Goold.</p><p>The 33-year-old has three years remaining on the eight-year, $260-million contract he signed with the Colorado Rockies in 2019. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Arenado hit .272/.325/.394 with 16 home runs, 23 doubles, and 71 RBIs across 152 games in 2024. He continues to rank among the game's best defenders at third base, finishing the 2024 campaign in the 95th percentile in Baseball Savant's outs above average.</p>

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 23: St. Louis Cardinals infielder Nolan Arenado (28) throws to first during a MLB game between the Minnesota Twins and St. Louis Cardinals on August 23, 2024, at Target Field in Minneapolis, MN.

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Report: Cardinals reached out to teams about Arenado trade

Tarik Skubal reigns supreme after an exceptional season.   The Detroit Tigers left-hander unanimo...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11799" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11799">Tarik Skubal </a>reigns supreme after an exceptional season. </p><p>The Detroit Tigers left-hander unanimously won his first career American League Cy Young Award over Kansas City Royals right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5533" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5533">Seth Lugo</a> and Cleveland Guardians closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11259" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11259">Emmanuel Clase</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DVMng" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DVMng/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="197" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><p>"It's pretty special. All the hard work, all the stuff that goes on behind the scenes, moments like this make it extremely worth it," Skubal said. "To have the support system that I have and the people that are right behind me, it means a lot to have those guys in my corner."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Skubal put together a breakout 2024 campaign following a strong finish to 2023. The southpaw earned the AL pitching Triple Crown by leading in wins (18), ERA (2.39), and strikeouts (228).</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“I love to play the game. I love to win. That’s all the motivation I need.”<br><br>Cy Young dreams become reality for <a href="https://twitter.com/TarikSkubal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TarikSkubal</a>. <a href="https://t.co/iKkzXFx89H">pic.twitter.com/iKkzXFx89H</a></p>— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/tigers/status/1859386435704406198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>His 170 ERA+, 2.50 FIP, and 5.9 fWAR were also tops in the AL.</p><p>It was a particularly special 28th birthday for Skubal as he became the fifth Tigers pitcher to win a Cy Young and the first since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/633">Max Scherzer</a> in 2013. He's also the first left-handed starting pitcher in franchise history to take home the award.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">gotta love the “Happy Birthday” in the background of a Cy Young celebration <a href="https://t.co/5QLvgR61YT">pic.twitter.com/5QLvgR61YT</a></p>— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alden_Gonzalez/status/1859385876528365585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Skubal joins Roy Campanella (1953 MVP) as the only two players in MLB history to win an individual BBWAA award on their birthday, according to <a href="https://x.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1859385024866550114">MLB.com's Sarah Langs</a>.</p><p> </p>

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 01: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers reacts after recording a strikeout against the Houston Astros to end the fourth inning during Game One of the Wild Card Series at Minute Maid Park on October 01, 2024 in Houston, Texas.

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Tigers' Skubal unanimously wins 1st Cy Young

José Berríos is hoping Vladimir Guerrero Jr. remains a member of the Toronto Blue Jays for the lo...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4769" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4769">José Berríos</a> is hoping <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8267" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8267">Vladimir Guerrero Jr.</a> remains a member of the Toronto Blue Jays for the long haul.</p><p>"When we sign Vladdy, we can sign whoever they want," Berríos told <a href="https://www.elvocero.com/deportes/jos-berr-os-sobre-juan-soto-ser-a-brutal-pero-primero-tenemos-que-firmar-a/article_e561767e-a76c-11ef-906c-972b69e13ebb.html">El Vocero's Jarniel Canales Conde</a>. "But I think the priority should be Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and then if we add <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a>, it would be a perfect world."</p><p>Guerrero is under team control for one more year before he's scheduled to hit free agency. The 25-year-old is projected to earn $29.6 million in his final year of arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Guerrero put together an excellent season in 2024. He won a Silver Slugger and was named to the All-MLB first team for the second time in his career.</p><p>The Blue Jays are also among a handful of teams who have reportedly met with Soto and his agent Scott Boras as they try to snare this year's marquee free agent after a disappointing 74-88 campaign in 2024.</p>

TORONTO, ON - MAY 31: Jose Berrios #17 and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of Toronto Blue Jays get ready to take the field against the Pittsburgh Pirates in their MLB game at the Rogers Centre on May 31, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Berríos: Keeping Vladdy should be Blue Jays' 'priority'

The Chicago Cubs designated right-hander Adbert Alzolay for assignment, the club announced Tuesda...

<p>The Chicago Cubs designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9536" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9536">Adbert Alzolay</a> for assignment, the club announced Tuesday.</p><p>Alzolay was projected to earn $2.3 million in 2025, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>. The 29-year-old has an additional year of arbitration eligibility before he hits free agency at the end of the 2025 season.</p><p>Alzolay is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in August.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He spent the first six seasons of his career with the Cubs. Alzolay's best season came in 2023 when he registered a 2.67 ERA with 22 saves and 67 strikeouts in 64 innings.</p><p>The Cubs also designated outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12698" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12698">Brennen Davis</a> for assignment and added outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13752">Owen Caissie</a> and infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14249" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14249">Ben Cowles</a> to the 40-man roster.</p>

CHICAGO, IL - APRIL 3: Adbert Alzolay of the Chicago Cubs pitches in a game against the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field on April 3, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Cubs DFA former closer Alzolay 

The New York Mets acquired outfielder Jose Siri from the Tampa Bay Rays for right-handed reliever...

<p>The New York Mets acquired outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4979" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4979">Jose Siri</a> from the Tampa Bay Rays for right-handed reliever <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14030" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14030">Eric Orze</a>, the club announced Tuesday.</p><p>Siri spent parts of the last three seasons with the Rays after coming over in a trade from the Houston Astros. The 29-year-old struggled at the plate in 2024, slashing .187/.255/.366 with 18 home runs, 14 stolen bases, 50 runs, and 47 RBIs in 130 games.</p><p>Siri is an excellent defensive option in the outfield, ranking in the 99th percentile in Baseball Savant's outs above average and 97th percentile in arm strength. He's arbitration-eligible for the first time this offseason and is projected to earn $2.3 million, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2024/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2025.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Siri will provide Mets manager Carlos Mendoza with another outfield option alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2442" href="/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>.</p><p>Orze made his MLB debut this season, posting a 21.60 ERA in a pair of appearances for the Mets. The 27-year-old was excellent at Triple-A, posting a 6-1 record with a 2.92 ERA and 84 strikeouts across 61 2/3 innings.</p>

CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 13: Tampa Bay Rays center fielder Jose Siri (22) digs for third base after hitting a triple during the third inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Guardians on September 13, 2024, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH.

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Mets acquire Siri from Rays for Orze

Ryan Garcia will face Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition match Dec. 30 in Tokyo, the...

<p>Ryan Garcia will face Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition match Dec. 30 in Tokyo, the two boxers announced on social media Monday.</p><p>The fight will take place at 153 pounds over eight two-minute rounds, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/42474417/ryan-garcia-take-rukiya-anpo-dec-30-tokyo">ESPN's Mike Coppinger</a>.</p><p>Garcia is currently serving a one-year suspension for testing positive for ostarine ahead of his fight with Devin Haney in April. The 26-year-old is eligible to fight Anpo since exhibition bouts are excluded from athletic commission suspensions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs) upset Haney via majority decision before it was changed to a no-contest following his suspension.</p><p>The former WBC interim lightweight champion is also eyeing a potential fight against Jake Paul in the future.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ight I’ve been quiet for some time but I’ve been cooking on some plans before my actual return to the ring <br><br>Here is the plan before April <br><br>Exhibition in December in Japan against the guy who fought aging manny pac and tried to knock him out. <br><br>And then go after Jake🫡 for uncle…</p>— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanGarcia/status/1858621008842027478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Anpo only has one boxing fight in his career, a draw against veteran Manny Pacquiao in an exhibition bout in July.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 18: Ryan Garcia speaks during a press conference at Barclays Center on April 18, 2024 in New York City.

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Ryan Garcia books exhibition bout for Dec. 30 in Tokyo

The Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to meet with free-agent outfielder Juan Soto early this wee...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers are scheduled to meet with free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> early this week, sources told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/juan-soto-free-agency-inside-look">MLB.com's Mark Feinsand</a>.</p><p>Soto has reportedly held meetings in California with the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets. The New York Yankees are expected to meet with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, on Monday, Feinsand reports.</p><p>The four-time All-Star's meetings with the Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Mets included representatives from ownership, front-office executives, and each club's manager, sources told Feinsand.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The World Series champion Dodgers have an opening in right field, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4472" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4472">Teoscar Hernández</a> hitting free agency and the team announcing that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4184" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4184">Mookie Betts</a> will shift back to the infield next season.</p><p>Soto is the marquee free agent on the market this offseason after a terrific 2024 campaign. The 26-year-old set a career high with 41 home runs and helped the Yankees reach the World Series for the first time since 2009 in his first season with the club.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 20: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees in action against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium on June 20, 2024 in New York City. The Orioles defeated the Yankees 17-5.

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Report: Dodgers set to meet with Soto

Houston Astros owner Jim Crane expects his club to be competitive again in 2025, but he isn't pla...

<p>Houston Astros owner Jim Crane expects his club to be competitive again in 2025, but he isn't planning to be overly aggressive in free agency.</p><p>"We want to try to field the best team we can without going crazy," Crane said Monday, per <a href="https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/astros-discuss-alex-bregman-free-agency">MLB.com's Brian McTaggart</a>. "Some of the payrolls are pretty high for the biggest teams, but I think we were the fifth-highest payroll. That’s the first time we’ve done that. We have the wherewithal to do that if we need to do it."</p><p>The Astros had the highest payroll in franchise history at $255.2 million in 2024.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Longtime third baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> is a free agent for the first time in his career. Crane is hopeful the club will be able to retain Bregman but is keeping all his options open when it comes to the third base market.</p><p>"We know (Bregman's agent) Scott (Boras)," Crane said. "He’s going to do the best he can to get the most for (Bregman) if it’s a place he wants to go. … At some point, we would have to make a decision. We’re looking now at a backup (options). You’re exploring all the options, so that’s what’s happening now."</p><p>Crane and Astros general manager Dana Brown signed star second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2841" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2841">Jose Altuve</a> to a five-year, $125-million contract extension in February. The Astros haven't given a free agent more than five guaranteed years on a contract since Crane assumed ownership of the club in 2011.</p><p>Houston was swept in the AL wild-card series by the Detroit Tigers last season, snapping the franchise's streak of advancing to every ALCS since 2016.</p><ul></ul>

HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 03: Houston Astros owner Jim Crane presents Alex Bregman #2 of the Houston Astros a World Series ring to at Minute Maid Park on April 3, 2018 in Houston, Texas.

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Crane: Astros to build best team 'without going crazy' in free agency

The Cincinnati Reds and Kansas City Royals have held discussions about a trade involving Reds sec...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds and Kansas City Royals have held discussions about a trade involving Reds second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12444" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12444">Jonathan India</a> and Royals right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10668" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10668">Brady Singer</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5926126/2024/11/16/jonathan-india-brady-singer-reds-royals-trade/">The Athletic's C. Trent Rosecrans and Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>An India-for-Singer trade is not yet close to being completed and is one of a handful of scenarios under consideration for both teams, Rosecrans and Rosenthal report.</p><p>India has spent the first four seasons of his career in Cincinnati, winning NL Rookie of the Year in 2021. The 27-year-old is under contract for $5.4 million in 2025 and has another year of arbitration eligibility before he's scheduled to reach free agency at the conclusion of the 2026 campaign.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>India hit .248 with 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and a 105 OPS+ across 151 games for the Reds in 2024. </p><p>Singer was drafted by the Royals in the first round in 2018. He's under team control for two more years.</p><p>The 28-year-old authored a strong season for Kansas City in 2024, posting a 9-13 record with a 3.71 ERA and 170 strikeouts across 179 2/3 innings.</p>

ST. LOUIS, MO - JUNE 28: Jonathan India #6 of the Cincinnati Reds waits for play to resume during the first inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium on June 28, 2024 in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Report: Reds, Royals discuss India-Singer trade

Following his victory over Mike Tyson, it appears Jake Paul has his next move in mind.  Paul took...

<p>Following his victory over Mike Tyson, it appears Jake Paul has his next move in mind.</p><p>Paul took to X to challenge former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion Conor McGregor to an MMA fight.</p><p>"Dear Conor, I know you told my team you would fight me at 170 pounds," Paul <a href="https://twitter.com/jakepaul/status/1857793540790555111?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1857793540790555111%7Ctwgr%5E68a121763d455a5d0854c4159ba3a384e115773c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mmafighting.com%2F2024%2F11%2F16%2F24298119%2Fjake-paul-calls-out-conor-mcgregor-for-an-mma-fight-no-weight-class-just-like-how-it-used-to-be-done">wrote</a>. "That's never happening. But let's run it in MMA. No weight class. Just like how it used to be done. But you won't."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Paul and McGregor have gone back and forth about a potential bout for several years but have failed to come to any agreement.</p><p>McGregor has been idle since suffering a leg injury during a fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. The 36-year-old has one professional boxing fight under his belt, falling to Floyd Mayweather via 10th-round TKO in 2017.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JULY 19: Jake Paul poses during weigh-in prior to their Cruiserweight fight at Amalie Arena on July 19, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

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Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias has been busy navigating the free-agent market in th...

<p>Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias has been busy navigating the free-agent market in the early stages of the offseason.</p><p>"I’ve been very active. I’ll leave it at that," Elias said Friday, according to <a href="https://www.baltimorebaseball.com/2024/11/16/orioles-elias-wall-free-agency-injury-updates/">Rich Dubroff of Baltimore Baseball</a>. "I’ve been talking to a lot of people. I think we have a clear idea of the types of player profiles that we’re seeking."</p><p>Elias expects new owner David Rubenstein to be aggressive in adding payroll in an effort to make the franchise an attractive destination.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"(Ownership) has allowed us to be in a position to be very organized and prepared," Elias said. "As soon as free agency opened during the GM meetings, we’ve been in a position to show people that we’re very serious about bringing players in, and a lot of conversations (are) ongoing right now."</p><p>Ace right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> is one of the premier starting pitchers available. He spent the 2024 campaign in Baltimore after the Orioles acquired him in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers.</p><p>"We are looking at the whole menu, the whole spectrum," Elias said of the club's involvement in the free-agent pitching market, according to <a href="https://www.baltimoresun.com/2024/11/15/orioles-mike-elias-free-agent-pitchers-offseason-updates/">Matt Weyrich of The Baltimore Sun</a>.</p><p>The Orioles were 22nd in payroll in 2024 at $109.8 million.</p>

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - APRIL 08: Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias talks on the phone before the start of the Orioles and New York Yankees game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 08, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland.

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Orioles GM 'very active' in free-agent discussions

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Bryan Mcwilliam

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