Thursday marks an important date in the offseason calendar. It is the deadline for arbitration-eligible players and their teams to submit salary figures for the upcoming 2025 season. Players and teams each present their salary proposals, with most players reaching agreements before the 1 p.m. ET deadline. Only a few players actually file salary figures, and even fewer proceed to arbitration hearings. Here are the latest hot stove rumors for Thursday.
Red Sox in Talks with Crochet for Contract Extension
The Red Sox have engaged in discussions with newly acquired pitcher Garrett Crochet regarding a potential multi-year contract extension, as reported by MassLive.com. While no deal is imminent, Crochet, who has two years of team control remaining, could sign a one-year contract for the 2025 season before the arbitration deadline and negotiate a longer-term agreement later on.
Comparisons have been drawn to Pablo López’s four-year, $73.5 million extension with the Twins two years ago, suggesting a potential framework for a Crochet deal. At just 25 years old, Crochet had an impressive 2024 season with 209 strikeouts and a 3.58 ERA in 146 innings as a starting pitcher for the White Sox.
Arenado Considering Waiving No-Trade Clause
Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado is reportedly more “open-minded” about waiving his no-trade clause to potentially join a wider range of teams, according to MLB.com. Teams like the Royals have shown interest in Arenado, but earlier attempts to trade him were unsuccessful. He is considered the top trade candidate in the current market.
The Pirates Sign Ferguson as a Possible Starter
The Pirates have signed lefty reliever Caleb Ferguson to a one-year, $3 million contract, with plans to transition him to a starting role during spring training. Ferguson, who made 14 career big league starts as an opener, will compete for a spot in the Pirates’ rotation alongside other pitchers like Johan Oviedo and Braxton Ashcraft.
Yankees Fielding Inquiries about Cabrera
Teams have expressed interest in Yankees utility man Oswaldo Cabrera, who has played multiple positions at the big league level and has four years of team control remaining. Cabrera’s versatility makes him an attractive trade asset for the Yankees.
Blue Jays Eyeing Top Free Agents
The Blue Jays are reportedly still pursuing top free agents like Pete Alonso and Alex Bregman, though they face competition from other teams. Despite missing out on previous targets like Corbin Burnes and Juan Soto, the Blue Jays remain active in the free-agent market.
Pirates Considering Grichuk for Outfield Help
In their search for outfield assistance, the Pirates are contemplating signing free agent Randal Grichuk, who could potentially platoon with Joshua Palacios in right field. Grichuk’s strong performance against left-handed pitchers in 2024 makes him a valuable option for the Pirates.
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