A group of thirteen players eligible for free agency were given one-year contract proposals, valued at $22.025 million each, before the deadline last Thursday. With this formality concluded, and now that front offices are aware of which potential free-agent acquisitions would necessitate surrendering draft choices, the period for player transactions can officially commence. Anticipate a flurry of activity, possibly including several impactful deals, between now and the Thanksgiving holiday. The following are the most recent reports circulating about potential player moves now that Munetaka Murakami is available to MLB teams.
Yankees planning to re-engage with Bellinger
Even if Trent Grisham decides to accept the contract proposal, the Yankees are considering a re-engagement with Cody Bellinger, according to NJ.com. Bellinger performed admirably in New York, achieving his highest home run count (29) and WAR (5.1) since his 2019 NL MVP campaign. He also easily transitioned between all three outfield positions. Bellinger was positioned as the sixth-most desirable free agent accessible.
Aaron Judge’s place in right field is guaranteed, and former highly touted prospect Jasson Domínguez played primarily in left field this past year until the Yankees opted for the Bellinger/Grisham/Judge outfield lineup towards the conclusion of the season and in the postseason. If Grisham accepts the contract proposal and Bellinger comes back, Domínguez, who is still only 22 years old, might become available for trade.
Cubs are not likely to make a push for top-tier relief pitchers
The Cubs are reportedly not expected to directly pursue the top-tier relief pitchers available in free agency, according to The Athletic. They may reconsider should any candidates remain uncommitted and available in January or February, but their initial offseason efforts will be directed towards acquiring more affordable relief options. Key setup men from the 2025 season such as Brad Keller, Drew Pomeranz, and Caleb Thielbar are all currently free agents.
Eleven relief pitchers are ranked in our top 50 free agents: Edwin Díaz (No. 15), Devin Williams (No. 19), Luke Weaver (No. 20), Robert Suarez (No. 21), Ryan Helsley (No. 24), Keller (No. 35), Emilio Pagán (No. 37), Phil Maton (No. 38), Tyler Rogers (No. 39), Pete Fairbanks (No. 40), and Steven Matz (No. 50). Williams and Cubs manager Craig Counsell share a history from their time with the Brewers. A potential match might arise if Williams is still available into 2026.
Blue Jays in talks regarding a contract extension with Schneider
Unsurprisingly, the Blue Jays are in discussions regarding a contract extension for their manager, John Schneider, as stated by GM Ross Atkins on Thursday (via Sportsnet). The team has already exercised their option for Schneider’s services in 2026. Now, they are exploring a more long-term arrangement. Schneider successfully guided Toronto to their first American League pennant since 1993 this season. The Blue Jays have a record of 303 wins and 257 losses (.541 winning percentage) with three postseason appearances since Schneider took over from Charlie Montoyo midway through the 2022 season.
