The 2024-25 Major League Baseball offseason has kicked off, bringing with it a flurry of rumors surrounding free agency, trades, and more. As the General Managers’ Meetings are currently underway, the hot stove season is just getting started. Check out the latest rumors below:
Sasaki’s agent denies handshake agreement with Dodgers
Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old right-handed pitcher, is generating a lot of interest as he looks to transition from Japan to the U.S. major leagues. Despite being a sought-after talent, Sasaki is bound by MLB’s rules for international amateur free agents, which means he will likely sign for less than his market value. While rumors have suggested that Sasaki may have a preference for the Dodgers, his agent Joel Wolfe has vehemently denied any such agreement. In a statement to The Athletic, Wolfe refuted the claims, calling them “poor sportsmanship.”
Although the Dodgers have the most remaining bonus money to spend in the current international signing period, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has indicated that Sasaki is unlikely to sign until the 2025 period begins in January. This could level the playing field for other teams to offer competitive deals to Sasaki.
Despite winning the National League MVP Award, Shohei Ohtani has stated that he has not yet tried to recruit Sasaki and will respect his decision on where to sign.
Snell market heating up
Former Cy Young winner Blake Snell, who had a strong 2024 season with the Giants, is now a hot commodity in the free agent market. After opting out of his previous deal, Snell has already met with teams like the Red Sox and Dodgers, with potential meetings lined up with the Orioles and Blue Jays. The 31-year-old southpaw is coming off a season where he posted impressive numbers after returning from an injury.
Cubs want to move Bellinger
The Cubs are reportedly looking to trade outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger, but face challenges due to his performance and contract structure. Bellinger, 29, had a down year in 2024 compared to his previous seasons and has an opt-out clause in his contract for the upcoming season. This complicates any potential trade involving the former MVP.
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“The cat chased the mouse around the house.”
Rewritten sentence: “Around the house, the mouse was chased by the cat.”