As the Major League Baseball offseason moves into the quieter period of the holiday season, teams are not pressing the pause button. In fact, several franchises are actively pursuing high-profile players to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season. Among the most talked-about names is Corbin Burnes, a right-handed pitcher who has emerged as a prime free agent.
Sought-After Pitching Ace
Corbin Burnes is no stranger to attention in the MLB. With a career ERA of 3.19 and a track record that places him consistently in the top ten for Cy Young Award voting over the past five consecutive seasons, Burnes has established himself as a pivotal player. His performance in the 2024 season was exemplary, securing a fifth-place finish in the Cy Young race. Though last season saw him don an Orioles uniform after a trade from the Milwaukee Brewers, his current free agency status has put teams on high alert.
Frontrunners Emerging
The San Francisco Giants and the Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign Burnes. Both teams recognize the significant enhancement Burnes could bring to their pitching lineups and are keen to have him on board. However, they are not alone in this competitive pursuit. The Orioles, eager to maintain their momentum from acquiring Burnes last year, and the Boston Red Sox, keen to upgrade their bullpen, are also vying for his signature.
Notable Free-Agent Moves
Around the league, other notable free-agent moves are also unfolding. The Giants have successfully signed Willy Adames through a significant free-agent contract, adding depth to their roster. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays have completed a strategic trade, securing infielder Andrés Giménez from the Cleveland Guardians, a move that is seen as shoring up their infield strength.
Yankees’ Strategic Discussions
The New York Yankees are making waves with their active pursuit of several first basemen, holding discussions with Christian Walker, Pete Alonso, Carlos Santana, and Paul Goldschmidt. Walker and Alonso, aiming for multi-year contracts, imply that they see long-term potential and security with the Yankees. In contrast, Santana and Goldschmidt appear open to more flexible arrangements, likely considering one-year agreements.
Simultaneously, the Yankees have shown interest in Cubs outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger, a nod towards strengthening both their outfield and first-base capabilities.
Mets Shore Up Offense
Across the city, the New York Mets have signed Jared Young, a lefty-hitting outfielder/first baseman, to a one-year contract. Young's recent performance is nothing short of impressive, boasting a .326/.420/.660 batting line and ten home runs across 38 games with the Doosan Bears in the Korea Baseball Organization. His addition to the Mets promises to add a solid punch to their offense and offers flexibility in both the outfield and first base slots.
As teams navigate the offseason and seek to position themselves strongly for the upcoming season, these moves underscore an evolving landscape where strategic acquisitions and precise contractual agreements are key. The MLB offseason might slow down as the holidays near, but the quest to build a formidable roster continues, with players like Corbin Burnes at the center of it all.