Spring training camps will open in just over five weeks. It feels like it’s right around the corner, yet still a bit far off. While there have been some signings and trades leading up to spring training, teams typically aim to finalize all their business before camp begins. Expect a flurry of activity in the next five weeks as teams continue to make moves. Here are the latest hot stove rumors for this Sunday.
Orioles on the lookout for more additions
Despite bringing in Charlie Morton, the Orioles are still seeking further additions through free agency and trades, according to The Athletic. Baltimore could benefit from adding a top-tier starting pitcher, but those options are limited. General Manager Mike Elias may have explored those possibilities before settling on Morton. The team could also use another reliever and possibly a bench player.
Cot’s Baseball Contracts estimates the Orioles’ payroll for 2025 at $136 million, a significant increase from last year’s $93 million Opening Day payroll. While the team has boosted its spending this offseason, the projected 2025 payroll is still below the $148 million Opening Day payroll in 2016. With new owner David Rubenstein’s financial backing, Elias might have more flexibility to enhance the roster.
Red Sox miss out on meeting with Sasaki
The Red Sox were not among the teams granted an in-person meeting with Japanese pitching prospect Roki Sasaki, as reported by the Boston Globe. Sasaki has met with several other teams, including the Cubs, Dodgers, Giants, Mets, Padres, Rangers, and Yankees. He may have also met with other clubs. Sasaki was ranked as the seventh-best free agent this offseason.
Due to his age of 23, Sasaki is subject to international bonus pool restrictions, which limit his signing bonus to around $10 million. The 2025 international signing period begins on Jan. 15, and Sasaki’s 45-day posting window closes on Jan. 23, giving him a short window to sign.
Cardinals in search of bullpen help
The Cardinals, under President of Baseball Operations John Mozeliak, are in a “reset” phase this offseason but remain open to adding players to improve the team. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch notes that the Cardinals are specifically targeting a late-inning reliever to complement closer Ryan Helsley in high-leverage situations.
The free agent reliever market has been slow-moving, with notable pitchers like Jeff Hoffman, Tanner Scott, Kenley Jansen, David Robertson, and Kirby Yates still unsigned. It’s expected that there will be a flurry of activity soon, and the Cardinals could be one of the teams making moves.
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