Moncada Update: Fan Events and Free Agency Buzz

The quiet corners of the MLB offseason are fading fast as spring training draws near. But questions still linger, don’t they?

This article digs into the Los Angeles Angels’ agreement to re-sign Yoan Moncada. There are roster puzzles, a flurry of fan festivals, and—somehow—a bunch of big-name free agents still without teams as February creeps up.

Angels Move Closer to Reuniting With Yoan Moncada

The Los Angeles Angels agreed to bring back third baseman Yoan Moncada on a one-year contract. That move probably brings a bit of stability to a position that’s been, frankly, a revolving door for them.

They haven’t officially announced the deal yet, which feels odd since similar contracts around the league have already gone public. It’s got people wondering what’s holding things up.

With spring camps opening soon, most folks around the league expect the Angels to make it official any day now. Moncada’s return gives the Angels a veteran at third base—something they’ve really needed lately.

Roster Crunch Delays the Announcement

The holdup likely comes down to roster math rather than contract details. The Angels’ 40-man roster is full, so they’ve got to make a move before Moncada can join the list.

Front offices usually wait until every detail is sorted before they announce anything. Fans get antsy, but that’s just how it goes sometimes.

Anthony Rendon’s Status Looms Over Angels Decisions

One possible fix for the roster jam involves Anthony Rendon, whose situation with the Angels is, well, complicated. He’s reworked his contract and admitted he probably won’t play this season, but the team hasn’t taken him off the 40-man roster yet.

Instead, the Angels seem likely to go with a more procedural move once camp starts.

60-Day Injured List the Likely Path

They’ll probably put Rendon on the 60-day injured list, which would open up a roster spot right away. That lets them add Moncada without losing anyone else.

It’s a practical move, especially since Rendon’s injuries have kept him out of the picture for a while.

MLB Fan Festivals Signal the Season Is Near

While front offices shuffle rosters, fans are finally getting a taste of baseball energy in 2026. Several teams are rolling out fan events this weekend, tapping into the buzz as pitchers and catchers get ready to report.

These events bring meet-and-greets, fresh merch, and a sense of community that helps bridge the offseason gap.

Teams Hosting Fan Events This Weekend

Here are some clubs throwing open their doors:

  • White Sox – SoxFest Live
  • Braves – Single-day fan event
  • Royals – Single-day fan event
  • Padres – Single-day fan event
  • Giants – Fan Fest tour stop in Sacramento
  • Mariners – Two-day FanFest
  • You’ll find schedules, tickets, and locations through each team’s link on MLB.com. It’s not hard to plan your weekend if you’re itching for a baseball fix.

    Star Free Agents Still on the Market

    Maybe the weirdest part of this offseason? There are still a bunch of impact free agents sitting unsigned.

    February’s almost here—teams are usually done shopping by now, but some big names are still waiting. This standoff could mean late bargains or some surprise signings as camps open. Baseball never really runs out of curveballs, does it?

    Notable Names Still Available

    The list of unsigned talent includes:

  • Framber Valdez
  • Zac Gallen
  • Eugenio Suarez
  • Lucas Giolito
  • Chris Bassitt
  • Justin Verlander
  • Now, here’s something interesting. Max Scherzer has said he’s fine waiting until after the season starts to find the right fit.

    Maybe that’s smart. If teams run into injuries or their rotations flop early, his patience could really pay off.

     
    Here is the source article for this story: The Opener: Moncada, Fan Events, Free Agency

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