Tucker Updates, DFA Resolutions and Alex Bregman’s 2026 Outlook

This article digs into a pivotal moment in Major League Baseball’s offseason. The free-agent and roster landscape keeps shifting, and teams are trying to balance payroll, roster building, and their long-term plans.

From Kyle Tucker’s surprisingly slow-moving market to Alex Bregman’s opt-out, there’s a lot happening. Add in the constant churn of designated-for-assignment (DFA) moves, and you’ve got a winter full of careful maneuvering.

Kyle Tucker’s Free-Agent Market: A Slower Burn Than Expected

For a player like Kyle Tucker, this offseason’s been oddly quiet. The All-Star outfielder hit free agency with big expectations, but his negotiations haven’t really taken off yet.

Contenders are still hovering, especially teams that need a left-handed bat with some punch. The Toronto Blue Jays, in particular, have ramped up their pursuit lately.

They see Tucker as more than just another outfielder. In Toronto’s mind, he’s a lineup balancer and a real force in the middle of the order.

Why Toronto Makes Sense for Tucker

The Blue Jays like the fit as much as the talent. Tucker’s left-handed swing would finally give them some balance next to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

That means fewer easy matchups for opposing pitchers late in games. Here’s why Toronto keeps coming up:

• A lefty bat to handle all the AL East right-handed pitching
• Protection for Guerrero Jr. in the heart of the lineup
• Defensive flexibility in the outfield

The Mets and Dodgers have also shown interest. Still, it sounds like the Dodgers want a shorter deal, which probably isn’t what Tucker’s looking for if he wants long-term security.

DFA Moves Highlight Ongoing Roster Churn

While the big free-agent stories grab attention, the DFA market has quietly picked up again after the holidays. Teams are tweaking their 40-man rosters, and that always means a flurry of moves.

Depth pieces can swap teams fast this time of year. It’s a bit dizzying if you try to keep up with every transaction.

Recent DFA and Waiver Activity Around the League

Some notable moves have already changed the depth charts:

• Justyn-Henry Malloy went from Detroit to Tampa Bay via trade
• Justin Bruihl landed with the Cardinals after the Guardians tried to sneak him through waivers
• Jhonkensy Noel and Joey Wiemer got claimed earlier this week

Meanwhile, guys like lefty Josh Walker, outfielder Wade Meckler, and former top prospect Marco Luciano could be claimed or outrighted soon. The churn never really stops, even after the big names are gone.

Alex Bregman Resets the Market With Opt-Out Decision

One of the biggest moves this winter came when Alex Bregman opted out of the final two years and $80 million on his Red Sox deal. He’s clearly betting on himself here, looking for a longer commitment.

That move got a lot of teams interested again. Plenty of clubs see Bregman as a steady presence, both at the plate and in the field.

Where Bregman Fits—and Where He Might Not

Toronto, Chicago, Detroit, and Arizona have all shown real interest. But Toronto’s recent signing of Kazuma Okamoto throws a wrench in things and might limit where Bregman could actually play.

There’s also word that Boston is pushing harder to bring Bregman back. Still, nobody really knows if any team will give him the long-term deal he wants.

 
Here is the source article for this story: The Opener: Tucker, DFA Resolutions, Bregman