Major League Baseball’s winter meetings are barreling toward December 7, and front offices are already scrambling. The landscape keeps shifting—Kyle Schwarber’s big bat is on the move, the Royals’ rotation is swirling with trade rumors, and the Blue Jays are eyeing Pete Fairbanks for their bullpen.
All this pre-meeting action? It’s setting up the headlines and, honestly, shaping the competitive balance for years.
Kyle Schwarber Headlines the Free-Agent Market
Every winter, someone’s the big bat, and this time it’s Kyle Schwarber. He’s the name everyone’s tossing around as the meetings approach.
Schwarber’s still one of the most sought-after hitters out there, even if his game isn’t perfect.
Phillies Lead the Race, But Rivals Are Lurking
The Philadelphia Phillies seem like the obvious favorites to keep Schwarber. His lefty power fits Citizens Bank Park perfectly, and he’s become a big part of that lineup’s vibe.
But he’s not a lock to stay. At least three other teams are sniffing around:
Schwarber’s appeal is obvious—he can change a game with one swing. But teams are also eyeing his defensive issues and strikeout rate.
In a league obsessed with run prevention and contact, it’s fair to wonder if he’s worth a long, expensive deal.
Royals Enter the Pitching Trade Market
Some clubs want bats, but the Kansas City Royals might be the most interesting team for pitching trades. They’re taking calls on multiple starters and testing the market.
Cole Ragans Draws Interest Amid Durability Questions
Lefty Cole Ragans is the name people keep bringing up. He’s quietly posted a 3.32 ERA over 57 big-league starts.
That kind of production always gets attention, especially with so few top arms available. But there’s a catch—health.
Ragans missed a big chunk of last season. Any team talking to the Royals will want to dig deep into his medicals.
Still, a controllable lefty with that track record? That’s the kind of pitcher contenders pay up for in prospects.
Kansas City seems more likely to hang onto their veteran righties:
Don’t forget Kris Bubic, either. He’s a lefty heading into his walk year and feels like a logical trade chip for a team balancing now and later.
Outfield Surplus in Boston and the Bronx
It’s not just pitching and power bats. Outfield depth in Boston and New York is quietly shaping the early market, too.
Both the Red Sox and Yankees could deal from their outfield stashes, and that could create ripple effects everywhere.
How an Outfield Trade Could Shift the Market
If Boston or New York moves an outfielder, it’ll probably set the price for outfield bats. Teams missing on Schwarber, or just wanting more flexibility than a DH-only guy, might pounce on these options.
That could speed up or slow down other moves, depending on who jumps first. Nobody wants to blink too early.
Kodai Senga’s Situation Adds Drama in Queens
Pitching in New York isn’t boring, and the Mets have a real decision with Kodai Senga. He’s been good when healthy, but things aren’t simple.
No-Trade Clause and Performance Context
Senga’s got a limited no-trade clause, blocking deals to 10 teams. He’s said he wants to stay a Met, and he’ll use that leverage if he has to.
The front office isn’t totally boxed in, though, if the right offer shows up. He’s under contract through 2027, with a club option for 2028, and owns a career 3.00 ERA.
That’s impressive, but he struggled late in 2024 after getting hurt. The Mets have a tough call: stick with a quality starter who could bounce back or move him while his value’s still high overall.
Blue Jays Pivot to Bullpen Help After Landing Dylan Cease
Up in Toronto, the Blue Jays made a splash by signing Dylan Cease to a seven-year deal. With the rotation set, they’re now zeroing in on the bullpen and looking to shorten games from the back end.
Pete Fairbanks Emerges as a Key Bullpen Target
The Jays are heavily linked to right-hander Pete Fairbanks, who just hit free agency after the Rays declined his option. It’s not every day you see a reliever with his numbers on the open market, and plenty of teams have noticed.
Fairbanks put up a 145 ERA+ and racked up 27 saves last season. Those stats put him right up there with the best late-inning arms.
For Toronto, grabbing Fairbanks after landing Cease would make a statement. They want more than just a playoff spot—they want to be dangerous when they get there.
Miami sees a shot to snag top-tier bullpen help without giving up prospects. That’s rare, and they know it.
Here is the source article for this story: MLB rumors: Phillies still a favorite for Schwarber, Blue Jays target more pitching
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