The 2024-25 Major League Baseball offseason is underway, yet the anticipated flurry of significant transactions has remained subdued so far. Among the roster of available talent, few names provoke as much buzz as Juan Soto. This star player has been firmly positioned as a top free agent this offseason, and his market activity is beginning to heat up.
Represented by the renowned Scott Boras, Soto is strategically navigating his free agency with a focus on aligning with teams demonstrating a strong "commitment to winning." Boras, known for securing high-value contracts for his clients, is undoubtedly exploring every opportunity to position Soto in a top-tier environment. As talks progress, several teams have emerged as potential suitors for Soto, including the Blue Jays, Dodgers, Mets, Red Sox, Yankees, Phillies, Rays, and Royals. The conclusion of these negotiations is anticipated to coincide with the upcoming Winter Meetings, a pivotal point in the offseason calendar.
Other Notable Movements
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles are contemplating their catcher dynamics. They have a solid foundation with Adley Rutschman, considered the franchise's cornerstone behind the plate. However, with James McCann having filled the backup role for the past two seasons now entering free agency, the Orioles are exploring their options. It seems prudent for the team to reinforce their catching depth, allowing Rutschman to have additional days as designated hitter to mitigate the physical toll of the position. As general manager Mike Elias succinctly put it, "Baltimore of course has a franchise catcher in Adley Rutschman, though they would like a quality backup so they give Rutschman a few more days at DH to cut down on wear and tear."
Dodgers and Giants Eye Opportunities
The Dodgers are not letting the offseason progress idly either. They recently ignited preliminary discussions about a contract extension with Tommy Edman, a versatile infielder acquired midway through the past season. Edman contributed a batting line of .237/.294/.417 over 37 games with the club. With Edman set to reach free agency after the 2025 season, the Dodgers are keen to ascertain his long-term fit within their lineup.
In the Bay Area, the San Francisco Giants have officially expressed interest in Japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano. Already a notable figure in international baseball circles, Sugano showcases an impressive recent season with 156 2/3 innings and a formidable 1.67 ERA. Although he had previously entertained the idea of an MLB career during the 2020-21 offseason by posting as an international player, a contract was not realized then. The Giants’ current interest indicates an intention to add depth and quality to their pitching rotation, potentially setting the stage for a successful negotiation.
Moves in Colorado
On the other side of the country, the Colorado Rockies have made strategic alterations to their roster. Having recently secured Kyle Farmer on a one-year contract worth $3.25 million, they signal a fresh direction for the team following the decision to non-tender Brendan Rodgers. Farmer, who comes off a season with the Twins where he posted a batting line of .214/.293/.353, brings a veteran presence and versatile infield skills to the Rockies.
As the offseason continues to unfold, teams remain poised for more activity as front offices maneuver to build competitive rosters ahead of spring training. While the excitement of blockbuster trades and signings remains in the air, clubs are carefully calibrating their decisions, mindful of budget constraints and long-term strategic goals. With the Winter Meetings on the horizon, significant developments could be imminent, setting the stage for an enthralling baseball season ahead.