MLB Rumors: Yankees and Mets Favored in Offseason Moves
A roundup of the latest rumors in Major League Baseball
Yankees Potential Favorites for Juan Soto
The New York Yankees are reportedly confident in their ability to acquire outfielder Juan Soto in a trade. The team is seeking to strengthen their lineup around slugger Aaron Judge, and Soto's on-base skills and power would be a great addition. The Yankees have been connected with Soto in trade talks due to the Padres' desire to shed payroll.
According to reports, the number of teams willing to take on Soto's salary and give up prospects in a trade is much smaller compared to the number of teams interested in Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Yankees view Soto as a more attainable target than Yamamoto.
If the Yankees are successful in acquiring Soto, it would provide a significant boost to their offense and complement Judge's power from the other side of the plate.
Mets Considered Favorites for Yoshinobu Yamamoto
The New York Mets are perceived as the frontrunners to sign free agent Yoshinobu Yamamoto. This 25-year-old pitcher is highly coveted due to his ace-level stuff and results. Although the team that signs Yamamoto will need to pay a substantial posting fee to his NPB club, the Orix Buffaloes, they will not lose a compensatory draft pick.
The Mets, with their ample revenues and willingness to spend under owner Steve Cohen, are considered a strong fit for Yamamoto. The team has clear needs in their rotation and could potentially secure his services with a lucrative contract.
Given the level of competition for Yamamoto's signature, the Mets being viewed as favorites aligns with their financial capabilities and pitching needs.
Red Sox Eyeing Major Offseason Move
The Boston Red Sox are determined to make a significant move this offseason. The team is keen on acquiring a player who can make a big impact on their roster, whether it's through signing Shohei Ohtani, pursuing Yoshinobu Yamamoto or Blake Snell in free agency, or exploring trade options.
While Ohtani is heavily pursued by multiple teams, the Red Sox have also been linked to other potential targets like Juan Soto and pitchers Tyler Glasnow, Dylan Cease, and Shane Bieber. The team recognizes the need to elevate their roster and aims to make a significant acquisition.
Boston's historical ties to Babe Ruth, who has drawn comparisons to Ohtani, add to the anticipation of the team making a splashy move this offseason.
Twins Seeking Starting Pitcher
The Minnesota Twins are in search of a starting pitcher to fill the void left by Sonny Gray's departure in free agency. They are also planning to add another veteran arm on a minor-league deal to provide depth. Currently, the Twins' rotation consists of promising young pitchers, but the need for experience and talent is evident.
The team will pursue at least one starting pitcher this offseason, aiming to bolster their rotation and increase their chances for success. The Twins understand the importance of having a strong pitching staff and are actively working towards strengthening their roster.
By adding a frontline starting pitcher, the Twins hope to address their rotation needs and compete at a higher level in the upcoming season.
