MLB Rumors: Yankees Name Untouchable Prospect; Enrique Hernandez Nearing Deal; Juan Soto Favorite Emerges
Here's the latest news, notes, and rumors from the MLB hot stove as spring training continues.
Yankees Refuse to Part with Prospect for Cease
According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, the Yankees prefer to trade for White Sox ace Dylan Cease instead of signing Blake Snell. However, they are unwilling to include outfield prospect Spencer Jones in the deal as the White Sox are insisting.
Jones, who just missed being one of the top three prospects in the Yankees system according to CBS Sports, is a former first-round pick known for his athleticism. In the previous season, he played in both High-A and Double-A, with a batting average of .267, an on-base percentage of .336, and a slugging percentage of .444, along with 16 home runs and 43 stolen bases in 117 games.
While CBS Sports outlined why it would make sense for the White Sox to trade Cease before Opening Day, it seems that a deal is not imminent.
Mets Early Favorites for Soto?
As per Nightengale, the Mets are expected to aggressively pursue Yankees outfielder Juan Soto in free agency next winter. In fact, they could be among the favorites to sign him.
Juan Soto, who was acquired in a trade from the Padres in December, is considered one of the best hitters in the game. With a batting line of .284/.421/.524 and 160 home runs in his career so far, he is on a Hall of Fame trajectory at only 25 years old.
Soto is anticipated to be the top free agent available next offseason.
Hernandez Nearing Decision
Utility player Enrique Hernandez is currently considering offers from the Angels, Twins, Giants, and Padres, according to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal.
Hernandez, who played for both the Red Sox and Dodgers last season, had a batting line of .237/.289/.357 overall. However, he performed better during his 54-game stint with the Dodgers.
Known for his productivity against left-handed pitching and defensive versatility, Hernandez is an attractive option as a part-time player.
Bradley Jr. Not Yet Retired
According to the Boston Globe's Peter Abraham, former Gold Glove Award winner Jackie Bradley Jr. is still open to playing.
Bradley, who appeared in 43 games with the Royals in 2023, had a disappointing season with a 10 OPS+ and only six extra-base hits. However, he is known for his exceptional defense in center field.
It remains uncertain if Bradley will receive another opportunity considering that spring training is already underway without him being in camp. Throughout his career, Bradley has a batting line of .225/.303/.381 and 16.9 Wins Above Replacement.
