The Baltimore Orioles have been busy this offseason and are expected to target starting pitching ...

<p>The Baltimore Orioles have been busy this offseason and are expected to target starting pitching at the winter meetings, according to <a href="https://www.thebanner.com/sports/orioles-mlb/orioles-mike-elias-david-rubenstein-winter-meetings-2ZHTUL4VMZBMPHT57TJ5NSEISU/">The Baltimore Banner's Andy Kostka</a>.</p><p>Baltimore has expressed interest in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/9813" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/9813">Ranger Suárez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9842" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9842">Michael King</a>, and Tatsuya Imai, sources told Kostka. The Orioles have also been connected to former Houston Astros ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8415" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8415">Framber Valdez</a>.</p><p>Those four are among the top starting options available in free agency.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Baltimore has already made several moves this offseason, notably acquiring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5431" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5431">Taylor Ward</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5892" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5892">Andrew Kittredge</a>, but starting pitching remains a concern.</p><p>The Orioles are projected to begin 2026 with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12260" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12260">Kyle Bradish</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9579" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9579">Trevor Rogers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8585">Dean Kremer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12581" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12581">Tyler Wells</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15589" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15589">Cade Povich</a> in the rotation after trading <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12265" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12265">Grayson Rodriguez</a> to the Los Angeles Angels to acquire Ward.</p><p>Their rotation ranked 25th in FIP and 26th in ERA last season. The team finished last in the AL East and fired manager Brandon Hyde in the middle of the campaign.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - AUGUST 24: Ranger Suarez #55 of the Philadelphia Phillies delivers a pitch in the fifth inning during a game against the Washington Nationals at Citizens Bank Park on August 24, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies won 3-2.

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Report: Orioles interested in Suárez, King, Imai

The Arizona Diamondbacks agreed to a one-year, $7.5-million contract with right-hander Michael So...

<p>The Arizona Diamondbacks agreed to a one-year, $7.5-million contract with right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8133" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8133">Michael Soroka</a>, a source told <a href="https://x.com/nickpiecoro/status/1998038632175984843">Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic</a>.</p><p>Soroka's deal includes $2 million in bonuses, Piecoro <a href="https://x.com/nickpiecoro/status/1998040175939830112">adds</a>.</p><p>The 28-year-old Canadian appeared in 22 games (17 starts) between the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs last season, posting a 4.52 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, and 9.5 K/9 while holding opponents to a .210 batting average.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Opposing hitters managed to generate only a .118 average against Soroka's slurve, which had a 28.5% put-away percentage.</p><p>The Diamondbacks enter 2026 with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13779" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13779">Ryne Nelson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4216" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4216">Eduardo Rodríguez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14055" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14055">Brandon Pfaadt</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12538" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12538">Bryce Jarvis</a> as rotation options after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a> became a free agent. </p><p>Ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9580" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9580">Corbin Burnes</a> is also expected to be back by the All-Star break after having Tommy John surgery.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 4: Michael Soroka #41 of the Chicago Cubs pitches in a game against the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field on August 4, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: D-Backs agree to 1-year, $7.5M deal with Soroka

The Boston Red Sox have been busy this offseason, continuing to look for ways to improve their ro...

<p>The Boston Red Sox have been busy this offseason, continuing to look for ways to improve their roster.</p><p>One player whom the team is showing interest in is Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3555" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3555">Ketel Marte</a>, reports <a href="https://x.com/JonHeyman/status/1997712005659295874">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>Marte is being considered in case the Red Sox can't re-sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> or acquire free-agent shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a>, Heyman adds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old Marte has been one of the top second basemen since 2019, posting the third-highest fWAR and second-best offensive rating at his position during that span.</p><p>The Diamondbacks are reportedly considering deals involving Marte, who has been with the club for nine seasons, with the Philadelphia Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays also checking in on his availability.</p><p>Boston has made six trades this offseason, adding key pieces like <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3012" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3012">Sonny Gray</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11860" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11860">Johan Oviedo</a> to the roster.</p>

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 15: Ketel Marte #4 of the Arizona Diamondbacks looks on against the American League during the first inning of the MLB All-Star Game at Truist Park on July 15, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Report: Red Sox interested in trading for D-Backs' Marte

The Chicago Cubs have their sights set on one of the top free-agent pitchers as they look to impr...

<p>The Chicago Cubs have their sights set on one of the top free-agent pitchers as they look to improve their rotation before next season.</p><p>Chicago is targeting right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9755">Zac Gallen</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6868108/2025/12/06/cubs-zac-gallen-free-agency/">The Athletic's Patrick Mooney</a>.</p><p>The 30-year-old is coming off an inconsistent campaign with the Arizona Diamondbacks where he posted a 5.40 ERA and 1.37 WHIP in the first half before authoring a 3.97 ERA after the All-Star break.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Between 2019-2024, Gallen ranked top 20 among qualified starters in ERA, wins, fWAR, and HR/9.</p><p>The Cubs' rotation finished 17th in fWAR, 19th in FIP, 23rd in HR/9 and 27th in K/9 last season.</p><p>Chicago is projected to start next season with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5285" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5285">Matthew Boyd</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/19127" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/19127">Cade Horton</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17236">Shota Imanaga</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2918" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2918">Jameson Taillon</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4987" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4987">Colin Rea</a> in the rotation. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10586" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10586">Justin Steele</a> is also expected to return in the first half of the 2026 campaign after undergoing elbow surgery last April. </p><p> </p>

BOSTON, MA - AUGUST 24: Zac Gallen #23 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning at Fenway Park on August 24, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Report: Cubs targeting Zac Gallen

The Washington Nationals are trading left-hander Jose A. Ferrer to the Seattle Mariners for catch...

<p>The Washington Nationals are trading left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15407" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15407">Jose A. Ferrer</a> to the Seattle Mariners for catcher <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14468" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14468">Harry Ford</a> and pitching prospect Isaac Lyon.</p><p>Ferrer posted a 4.48 ERA and 8.4 K/9 with 11 saves in 76 1/3 innings for the Nationals last season. </p><p>The 25-year-old sat in the 99th percentile in ground-ball rate, 95th percentile in walk percentage, 94th percentile in fastball velocity, and 93rd percentile in barrel percentage in 2025.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ferrer is expected to join <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13618" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13618">Matt Brash</a> and closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10823" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10823">Andrés Muñoz</a> as key contributors to the back end of the bullpen, strengthening a Mariners team that reached Game 7 of the ALCS last season. </p><p>Seattle's new addition won't become a free agent until 2030 and isn't arbitration-eligible until 2027.</p><p>The 22-year-old Ford made eight plate appearances in the majors in 2025, recording one hit and one RBI. </p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/m/harry-ford-collects-his-first-mlb-hit?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share" width="560" height="315"></iframe></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.mlb.com/mariners/video/harry-ford-collects-his-first-mlb-hit">MLB.com</a>)</p><p>The No. 42-ranked prospect had a solid Triple-A campaign before debuting in the big leagues, hitting 16 home runs and 74 RBIs with an .868 OPS.</p><p>Seattle selected Ford with the 12th overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft.</p><p>Lyon was a 10th-round pick in the 2025 draft out of Grand Canyon. </p><p>The 21-year-old made four appearances at Class-A Modesto this year, logging a 7.30 ERA and 10.9 K/9 in 12 1/3 innings. He's the son of former MLB reliever Brandon Lyon.</p><p>The Nationals are also reportedly expected to trade left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12506" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12506">MacKenzie Gore</a>, as the club looks to make changes under new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni.</p><p>Meanwhile, the Mariners are open to a reunion with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4865" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4865">Mitch Garver</a> to serve as a backup catcher to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10827" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10827">Cal Raleigh</a> after trading Ford, a source told <a href="https://x.com/A_Jude/status/1997435328492408940">Adam Jude of The Seattle Times</a>.</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 27: Jose A. Ferrer #47 of the Washington Nationals celebrates a win after a baseball game against the Chicago White Sox at Nationals Park on September 27, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Nationals trade Ferrer to Mariners for Ford, prospect

Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Yariel Rodríguez cleared outright waivers and was removed from the...

<p>Toronto Blue Jays right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17237" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17237">Yariel Rodríguez</a> cleared outright waivers and was removed from the club's 40-man roster, the team announced Saturday.</p><p>Rodríguez is still owed approximately $17 million over the next three seasons.</p><p>The 28-year-old is due $5 million in 2026 and $6 million in 2027. His contract also includes a $6-million player option or $10-million club option for 2028.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We can deduce a few things from the Yariel move:<br><br>1) 29 teams passed on claiming Rodriguez ($17M over next 3 years)<br><br>2) Blue Jays would have been OK to see him leave for no return<br><br>2) Jays prefer to have Rodriguez off the 40-man, freeing up valuable space for someone else</p>— Ben Nicholson-Smith (@bnicholsonsmith) <a href="https://twitter.com/bnicholsonsmith/status/1997397810602291274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Cuban swingman will remain in the Blue Jays system and, unless circumstances change, is expected to attend spring training as a non-roster invite to compete for a big-league spot.</p><p>Rodríguez appeared in 66 games for the Blue Jays in 2025, posting a 3.08 ERA and 1.15 WHIP in 73 innings. He owns a 3.83 ERA and 8.5 K/9 in his two campaigns with the Blue Jays.</p><p>The right-hander was left off of Toronto's World Series roster after he struggled during two appearances in the ALCS.</p><p>The move frees up a roster spot for the Blue Jays ahead of Wednesday's Rule 5 Draft.</p>

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 11: Yariel Rodríguez #29 of the Toronto Blue Jays walks off the mound after the final out of the eighth inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on July 11, 2025 in Sacramento, California.

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Blue Jays remove Rodríguez from 40-man roster

The Miami Marlins appear poised to trade from a position of strength, looking to build a competit...

<p>The Miami Marlins appear poised to trade from a position of strength, looking to build a competitive team for years to come.</p><p>There's a strong possibility the Marlins will move one of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5647" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5647">Sandy Alcantara</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9569" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9569">Edward Cabrera</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12507" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12507">Ryan Weathers</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6866340/2025/12/05/mlb-hot-stove-rumors-sandy-alcantara-bo-bichette-edward-cabrera-ryan-weathers/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Will Sammon and Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Alcantara and Cabrera have remained on the trade block since last season and have continued to attract interest from several teams, while multiple clubs are looking at Weathers, add Sammon and Rosenthal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Alcantara returned to the majors last season after missing all of 2024 following Tommy John surgery. The 30-year-old had an up-and-down campaign that featured a 7.22 ERA in the first half and a 3.33 ERA after the All-Star break. He's owed $17 million next season and has a $21-million team option for 2027.</p><p>Cabrera put together one of his best campaigns in 2025, posting a 3.53 ERA in a career-high 26 starts. The 27-year-old right-hander is under club control until 2028 and projected to earn $3.7 million through arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2026.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><p>Weathers was limited to eight starts last season because of injuries, including a lat strain. The 25-year-old recorded a 3.74 ERA in 125 innings over the past two campaigns.</p><p>Weathers won't be a free agent until 2029.</p>

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 27: Sandy Alcantara #22 of the Miami Marlins looks on during the second inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day at loanDepot park on March 27, 2025 in Miami, Florida.

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Report: Strong possibility Marlins trade Alcantara, Cabrera or Weathers

Washington Nationals left-hander MacKenzie Gore might be suiting up for a new team in 2026.  Mult...

<p>Washington Nationals left-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12506" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12506">MacKenzie Gore</a> might be suiting up for a new team in 2026.</p><p>Multiple front offices around the league believe the Nationals will trade the 26-year-old in the coming days, according to <a href="https://x.com/Buster_ESPN/status/1997069060119711885">ESPN's Buster Olney</a>.</p><p>More than half of the league has checked in on Gore's availability, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6866340/2025/12/05/mlb-hot-stove-rumors-sandy-alcantara-bo-bichette-edward-cabrera-ryan-weathers/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Will Sammon and Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Gore put together a solid 2025 campaign for Washington despite posting a 5-15 record, earning his first All-Star nod and finishing with a career best 10.4 K/9 in 159 2/3 innings.</p><p>The former third overall pick is under club control for two more seasons and projects to earn $4.7 million in arbitration, according to <a href="https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2025/10/projected-arbitration-salaries-for-2026.html">MLB Trade Rumors</a>.</p><p>Washington is operating under new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni this offseason.</p><p> </p>

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 27: MacKenzie Gore #1 of the Washington Nationals throws a pitch in the second inning against the Philadelphia Phillies on Opening Day at Nationals Park on March 27, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Report: Nationals expected to trade Gore this winter

It doesn't appear that Nick Castellanos will be a member of the Philadelphia Phillies by the time...

<p>It doesn't appear that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2880" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2880">Nick Castellanos</a> will be a member of the Philadelphia Phillies by the time the 2026 campaign gets underway.</p><p>Castellanos and the Phillies are expected to separate before spring training, sources told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/nick-castellanos-addresses-trade-rumors">MLB.com's Todd Zolecki</a>.</p><p>The 33-year-old has fallen out of favor with the organization and posted one of his worst seasons in 2025. The Phillies benched him at one point for comments and actions he made in the dugout after manager Rob Thomson removed him from a game in Miami.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"There's a lot of stuff right now that's out of my control as far as the trade talks and everything," the 13-year veteran said Friday on <a href="https://www.mlb.com/video/nick-castellanos-preparing-for-the-2026-season">MLB Network</a>.</p><p>"So, I'm just trying to focus on making sure today, I get done what needs to get done. Whatever happens is going to happen."</p><p>The two-time All-Star, who was among the worst defensive outfielders in baseball last season, added that he is open to learning first base to accommodate a trade if "a team or somebody needs me to do that."</p><p>Castellanos has been on the trade block for the past two seasons. He has one year and $20 million left on his contract. </p><p> </p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - APRIL 17: Nick Castellanos #8 of the Philadelphia Phillies looks on against the San Francisco Giants at Citizens Bank Park on April 17, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Giants 6-4.

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Castellanos addresses trade rumors: 'Whatever happens is going to happen'

The Chicago Cubs are preparing for a future without Kyle Tucker and are showing a renewed interes...

<p>The Chicago Cubs are preparing for a future without <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> and are showing a renewed interest in signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5367" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5367">Alex Bregman</a> to address the loss, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6862841/2025/12/04/cubs-alex-bregman-free-agent-interest/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Patrick Mooney and Sahadev Sharma</a>.</p><p>Chicago attempted to sign Bregman to a four-year, $115-million deal with opt-out clauses last spring, sources told Mooney and Sharma, but he agreed to a contract with the Boston Red Sox.</p><p>Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer "identified Bregman as a great fit with this core group and a solid long-term investment" when pitching him to the Ricketts family last year, Mooney and Sharma report.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Chicago could give outfield playing time to youngsters <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13752">Owen Caissie</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13755" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13755">Moisés Ballesteros</a> if Tucker departs in free agency, while rotating <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17245" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17245">Matt Shaw</a> through different positions to accommodate Bregman. Shaw played the outfield, as well as second base and shortstop, in college.</p><p>The Red Sox are also interested in bringing back the three-time All-Star, according to <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/12/04/sports/yankees-still-trying-hard-for-cody-bellinger-as-stout-competition-emerges/">Jon Heyman of the New York Post</a>.</p><p>Bregman had a solid season in Boston, posting an .821 OPS in 114 games before opting out of his deal to test free agency again. He was also valuable in the clubhouse and played a key role in helping the Red Sox make their first playoff appearance since 2021.</p><p>The Detroit Tigers are eyeing another crack at Bregman, Heyman also reports. The 31-year-old almost joined the club last offseason before the Red Sox swooped in at the last second.</p><p>Detroit reportedly offered Bregman a six-year deal worth more than $170 million. He ended up signing a three-year, $120-million pact with Boston.</p><p> </p>

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 2: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox shouts out after driving in the go-ahead run on an infield single against the Cleveland Guardians during the eighth inning at Fenway Park on September 2, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.

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Report: Cubs have renewed interest in Bregman; Red Sox, Tigers in mix

The Pittsburgh Pirates might not be done making trades after Thursday's five-player deal with the...

<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates might not be done making trades after Thursday's five-player deal with the Boston Red Sox that involved <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11860" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11860">Johan Oviedo</a>.</p><p>The Pirates are open to trading another starter not named <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17521" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17521">Paul Skenes</a> to improve their offense, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6864039/2025/12/04/pittsburgh-pirates-offseason-trade-jhostynxon-garcia/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Pittsburgh's starting options outside of Skenes include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8236" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8236">Mitch Keller</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17221" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17221">Braxton Ashcraft</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17585">Bubba Chandler</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13958" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13958">Mike Burrows</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/15909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/15909">Jared Jones</a> has also started for the club but is sidelined following elbow surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Keller, who has thrown 707 2/3 innings since 2022, is the most likely trade candidate. The 29-year-old is owed $55.7 million over the next three years.</p><p>The Pirates are interested in acquiring one or two big-league regulars, as well as two to four depth pieces to fill out their big-league roster, Rosenthal adds.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5605" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5605">Ryan O'Hearn</a>, or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/15904" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/15904">Kazuma Okamoto</a> are among the free agents whom the Pirates are considering, per Rosenthal. The team is also reportedly interested in potentially trading for Tampa Bay Rays second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9653" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9653">Brandon Lowe</a> or New York Mets infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4912" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4912">Jeff McNeil</a>.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JUNE 15: Mitch Keller #23 of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts after allowing a run against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on June 15, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Pirates open to trading another starter after Oviedo deal

LeBron James' remarkable streak of scoring at least 10 points in 1,297 games came to an end Thurs...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/72" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/72">LeBron James</a>' remarkable streak of scoring at least 10 points in 1,297 games came to an end Thursday, as he finished with just eight points against the Toronto Raptors in a dramatic 123-120 buzzer-beater win.</p><p>James passed up a potential game-winning shot to get the ball to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/53163" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/53163">Rui Hachimura</a>, who buried a three for the victory.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">RUI HACHIMURA FROM THE CORNER FOR THE WIN OFF THE LEBRON JAMES DIME!<br><br>🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/TISSOT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TISSOT</a> BUZZER-BEATER 🚨<br> Everyone Gets 24 <a href="https://t.co/6J38hGVRYK">pic.twitter.com/6J38hGVRYK</a></p>— NBA (@NBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1996777754738688216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"LeBron is acutely aware of how many points he has at that point," Lakers coach JJ Redick said, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3419129" href="https://thescore.com/news/3419129">The Associated Press</a>. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"He did it like he's done so many times."</p><p>The 40-year-old certainly had his chances to get to 10 points but struggled from the field, making just 4-of-17 shots. However, he recorded 11 assists in the game.</p><p>The last time James failed to put up double-digit points was on Jan. 5, 2007.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Last time LeBron scored under 10 points:<br><br>— Twitter was less than a year old<br>— Bronny was 2 years old<br>— Cooper Flagg was 15 days old<br>— George W Bush was president<br><br>1,297 straight games — tonight, the streak ended. <a href="https://t.co/jRFLBi2aw9">pic.twitter.com/jRFLBi2aw9</a></p>— StatMuse (@statmuse) <a href="https://twitter.com/statmuse/status/1996775638221697287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>James is averaging a career-low 14 points per game through six contests this season, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/68198" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/68198">Luka Doncic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96101" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96101">Austin Reaves</a> doing most of the scoring for the 16-5 Lakers.</p>

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 4: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers goes to the basket as Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors defends during first half action at Scotiabank Arena on December 4, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

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LeBron's 1,297-game streak of 10+ points ends in win vs. Raptors

The Boston Red Sox acquired right-hander Johan Oviedo from the Pittsburgh Pirates in a five-playe...

<p>The Boston Red Sox acquired right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11860" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11860">Johan Oviedo</a> from the Pittsburgh Pirates in a five-player deal, the teams announced Thursday.</p><p><strong>Full trade details</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>BOS RECEIVES</th>
<th>PIT RECEIVES</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>SP Johan Oviedo</td>
<td>OF Jhostynxon Garcia</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RP Tyler Samaniego</td>
<td>SP Jesus Travieso</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C Adonys Guzman</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Oviedo posted a 3.57 ERA in nine starts for the Pirates last season, striking out 42 hitters in 40 1/3 innings. The 27-year-old missed the 2024 campaign after undergoing Tommy John surgery. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He made 48 starts for the Pirates in three seasons after spending the first two big-league campaigns of his career with the St. Louis Cardinals. Oviedo owns a career 4.24 ERA and 4.61 FIP in the majors.</p><p>Oviedo will join ace <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/12246" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/12246">Garrett Crochet</a> and offseason trade acquisition <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3012" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3012">Sonny Gray</a> in Boston's rotation. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13634" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13634">Brayan Bello</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10752" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10752">Kutter Crawford</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10786">Patrick Sandoval</a> are other rotation options for the Red Sox.</p><p>Neither Samaniego nor Guzman was among the Pirates' top 30 prospects.</p><p>Samaniego made 30 appearances in the minors last season, mostly in relief. The 26-year-old posted a 10.3 K/9 in 38 1/3 innings.</p><p>Guzman, 22, posted a .907 OPS with 44 RBIs during his last year of college ball at Arizona before the Pirates selected him in the fifth round of the 2025 draft.</p><p>Garcia, who goes by the nickname "The Password," posted a .619 OPS in five games for the Red Sox last season. He impressed in the minors, hitting 21 homers and adding 75 RBIs in 114 contests across two levels.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tNGIvptsdW0?si=_KZETDP3IMVpFjwS" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Garcia ranked as the No. 3 prospect in the Red Sox system before the trade.</p><p>Travieso, 18, pitched 39 innings in the Florida Complex League last season, authoring a 2.77 ERA and 12.0 K/9 in the process.</p><p>The Red Sox designated right-hander <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13601" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13601">Cooper Criswell</a> for assignment to create enough roster space for their acquisitions. </p><p> </p><p> </p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 17: Johan Oviedo #24 of the Pittsburgh Pirates prepares to pitch during the first inning against the Chicago Cubs at PNC Park on September 17, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Red Sox acquire Oviedo in 5-player deal with Pirates

The Cincinnati Reds are retaining closer Emilio Pagán on a one-year contract with a player option...

<p>The Cincinnati Reds are retaining closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/4500" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/4500">Emilio Pagán</a> on a one-year contract with a player option for 2027, the team announced Thursday.</p><p>Ken Rosenthal and C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6837169/2025/12/03/mlb-free-agency-emilio-pagan-reds/">reported</a> the agreement was for two years and $20 million Wednesday.</p><p>Pagán posted a 2.88 ERA and 3.72 FIP over 68 2/3 innings in his second season with the Reds this past year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 34-year-old's 32 saves in 2025 ranked second in the National League behind only San Diego Padres righty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/13691" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/13691">Robert Suarez</a>.</p><p>Set to enter his 10th MLB season, Pagán boasts a 3.66 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with 65 saves over 506 2/3 career innings.</p><p>He's the most recent free-agent closer to go off the board. Earlier this winter, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11736">Devin Williams</a> signed with the New York Mets, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a> joined the Baltimore Orioles, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4809" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4809">Raisel Iglesias</a> re-signed with the Atlanta Braves.</p>

CINCINNATI, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 20: Emilio Pagán #15 of the Cincinnati Reds throws during a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs at Great American Ball Park on September 20, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

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Reds bring back Pagán on 1-year deal

Every team enters the offseason with its own unique needs to fill, but only some will be able to ...

<p><em>Every team enters the offseason with its own unique needs to fill, but only some will be able to accomplish their winter goals. Let's take a look at one player each club should sign, starting with the National League.</em></p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3413862" href="https://thescore.com/news/3413862"><em>1 player each AL team should sign</em></a></p><h3>Arizona Diamondbacks, Merrill Kelly</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597507/cropped_GettyImages-1752848704.jpg?ts=1698103969" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597507/w220xh124_GettyImages-1752848704.jpg?ts=1698103969 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597507/w320xh180_GettyImages-1752848704.jpg?ts=1698103969 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597507/w640xh360_GettyImages-1752848704.jpg?ts=1698103969 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597507/w768xh432_GettyImages-1752848704.jpg?ts=1698103969 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/597507/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1752848704.jpg?ts=1698103969 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Arizona heads into 2026 with several areas to fill due to a banged-up roster. One important need is the rotation, which will be without ace Corbin Burnes (Tommy John) for the first half of the season. Re-signing Zac Gallen could be an option, but Kelly enjoyed his best years with the D-Backs before they traded him in July and should be more affordable. The 37-year-old is reportedly interested in a reunion but won't take a discount to return to the desert.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Atlanta Braves, Ha-Seong Kim</h3><p>There's been a glaring hole at shortstop in Atlanta since Dansby Swanson departed in free agency, and it looked like the Braves were going to fill it with Kim before the infielder declined his $16-million option and became a free agent. Atlanta could still re-sign the 30-year-old, who would be an upgrade over projected starter Mauricio Dubón. Kim accrued the 11th-most fWAR among big-league shortstops between 2022-24.</p><h3>Chicago Cubs, Zac Gallen</h3><p>The Cubs are reportedly looking to upgrade the rotation and could do so with Gallen, who is one of the top arms available. The 30-year-old is coming off the worst campaign of his career, but most of his troubles came in the first half - his 3.97 ERA after the All-Star break was better than Matthew Boyd's and Shota Imanaga's. Gallen is also a proven commodity in the postseason, where he's performed well outside of one bad series against the Philadelphia Phillies in 2023.</p><h3>Cincinnati Reds, Edwin Díaz</h3><p>Cincinnati is reportedly in the market for high-leverage arms and was connected to Devin Williams before he signed with the New York Mets. The Reds did bring back Emilio Pagán, but Díaz is the superior option. The latter enjoyed another terrific campaign where he logged a 1.63 ERA and 13.3 K/9. The Reds could use more swing-and-miss after their bullpen finished 16th in K/9 last season.</p><h3>Colorado Rockies, Nathaniel Lowe</h3><p>Don't expect the Rockies to make a big-ticket addition this winter under new president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta. Lowe feels like the sort of player Colorado should aim for after cutting ties with Michael Toglia, the only first baseman on the roster to hit more than 10 homers last season. Lowe was solid during a 34-game cameo with the Red Sox to end 2025, posting a .370 on-base percentage and .790 OPS (121 OPS+). His bat and veteran presence - Lowe won a World Series in 2023 - could benefit the rebuilding Rockies.</p><h3>Los Angeles Dodgers, Cody Bellinger</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805265/cropped_GettyImages-2237572670.jpg?ts=1760240403" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805265/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237572670.jpg?ts=1760240403 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805265/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237572670.jpg?ts=1760240403 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805265/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237572670.jpg?ts=1760240403 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805265/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237572670.jpg?ts=1760240403 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805265/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237572670.jpg?ts=1760240403 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Layton / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Dodgers were one of the best offensive teams in baseball last season, but left field was a huge void for the reigning champs. Michael Conforto was one of the worst hitters in the majors and won't be returning, which opens up the possibility of a Bellinger reunion. The Dodgers are reportedly considering the idea of bringing back the 30-year-old, who had one of the best seasons of his career with the New York Yankees.</p><h3>Miami Marlins, Kenley Jansen</h3><p>The Marlins improved by 17 wins and are reportedly expected to spend this offseason. They were connected to Williams, but now that he's off the board, Jansen looks like a good way to upgrade a bullpen that finished 18th in saves and 22nd in ERA last season. The 38-year-old still strikes out about one batter per inning and converted 29 of his 30 save chances in 2025.</p><h3>Milwaukee Brewers, Jonah Heim</h3><p>Milwaukee doesn't have many needs after winning the most games in the majors last season, but a catcher to back up William Contreras could help. Heim would be an upgrade over Eric Haase and Danny Jansen, who filled the role in 2025. The former Rangers backstop is a one-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner who hit 18 homers and 95 RBIs during Texas' 2023 World Series campaign. He hasn't been the same player since (71 wRC+), but he was among the league's best catchers defensively until last season.</p><h3>New York Mets, Pete Alonso</h3><p>The Polar Bear is the best pure slugger available in free agency and was immensely popular during his time in New York, so a reunion between the Mets and the franchise's all-time home run leader seems like a perfect marriage. It's going to be tougher for David Stearns and Co. to sign Alonso than last offseason when he was coming off a down year and attached to a qualifying offer, but their lineup will be significantly more terrifying if he's hitting fourth behind Francisco Lindor, Marcus Semien, and Juan Soto. </p><h3>Philadelphia Phillies, Kyle Schwarber</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794490/cropped_GettyImages-2223404434.jpg?ts=1752638215" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794490/w220xh124_GettyImages-2223404434.jpg?ts=1752638215 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794490/w320xh180_GettyImages-2223404434.jpg?ts=1752638215 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794490/w640xh360_GettyImages-2223404434.jpg?ts=1752638215 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794490/w768xh432_GettyImages-2223404434.jpg?ts=1752638215 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794490/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2223404434.jpg?ts=1752638215 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Phillies have never missed the playoffs since signing Schwarber in 2022, so keeping him around seems like a good idea. Schwarber hit a career-best 56 homers in 2025, and his 187 round-trippers for the Phillies rank 12th in franchise history. He's going to be expensive and is drawing interest from several clubs, but there may not be a better fit in free agency for Dave Dombrowski, who said bringing Schwarber back is a priority.</p><h3>Pittsburgh Pirates, Paul Goldschmidt</h3><p>First base has been a revolving door for the Pirates since trading Josh Bell in 2020. Goldschmidt, a former MVP who could fit into the financial plans of the cash-strapped Pirates, might be worth a look. While his 30-homer power seems to be a thing of the past, Goldschmidt still hit 31 doubles and remained above league average as a hitter last season. He could share first-base duties with Spencer Horwitz while also DHing in a very familiar division after spending six years with the St. Louis Cardinals.</p><h3>San Diego Padres, Kazuma Okamoto</h3><p>Okamoto isn't getting as much attention as Munetaka Murakami, but the Padres should set their sights on the Japanese slugger because he fits their needs. The 29-year-old hit 277 homers for the Yomiuri Giants. He'd provide San Diego with a middle-of-the-order threat who can play first base, DH, or spell Manny Machado at third (if he ever decides to take a day off). Padres exec A.J. Preller took a scouting trip to Japan in September and has actively pursued - and signed - Japanese players before.</p><h3>San Francisco Giants, Ranger Suárez</h3><p>Suárez would be a terrific fit for the Giants, who could use a rotation piece behind Logan Webb and Robbie Ray. The 30-year-old left-hander has been one of baseball's finest starters since converting to the role in 2022, ranking seventh in fWAR, eighth in wins, ninth in innings pitched, and 10th in ground-ball percentage among NL starters during that span. San Francisco's front office has said they're more focused on modestly-priced arms this offseason, but if it wants to contend with the Dodgers, D-Backs, and Padres, it's going to have to make some uncomfortable moves.</p><h3>St. Louis Cardinals, Luke Weaver</h3><p>It seems like the Cardinals are going to spend most of the offseason subtracting from their roster instead of adding to it, but St. Louis still needs someone to pitch the ninth, and Weaver could be the guy. Although the right-hander didn't have the same kind of success last season as he did in 2024, his 10.0 K/9 would be better than all but one of St. Louis' relievers from a season ago. Weaver also spent the first three seasons of his MLB career with the Cardinals from 2016-18, so there is some familiarity there as well.</p><h3>Washington Nationals, Luis Arraez</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744518/cropped_GettyImages-2169488110.jpg?ts=1728750088" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744518/w220xh124_GettyImages-2169488110.jpg?ts=1728750088 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744518/w320xh180_GettyImages-2169488110.jpg?ts=1728750088 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744518/w640xh360_GettyImages-2169488110.jpg?ts=1728750088 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744518/w768xh432_GettyImages-2169488110.jpg?ts=1728750088 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744518/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2169488110.jpg?ts=1728750088 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Denis Poroy / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Nationals ranked near the bottom of the NL in batting average and struck out in 22.6% of their plate appearances last season, so something needs to change. Arraez could provide a fix in both of these areas as an elite contact hitter who rarely strikes out. Signing Arraez would also allow Luis García Jr. to play second base instead of first.</p>

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1 player each NL team should sign

The Kansas City Royals are open to trading a starting pitcher, and general manager J.J. Picollo s...

<p>The Kansas City Royals are open to trading a starting pitcher, and general manager J.J. Picollo said no one is "off limits" in the right deal. </p><p>"Our starting pitching, we have some depth there," Picollo said, according to <a href="https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/11/29/sports/sunday-baseball-notes-velocity/">The Boston Globe's Alex Speier</a>. "A lot of teams are looking for starting pitching, so if we have what they may be interested in, and they have an outfielder that would be of interest, then there's potentially the opportunity to make a deal."</p><p>The Royals are projected to enter the 2026 campaign with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14571" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14571">Cole Ragans</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3633" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3633">Michael Wacha</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5533" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5533">Seth Lugo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10665" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10665">Kris Bubic</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/18698" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/18698">Noah Cameron</a> in the rotation. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>While Picollo said the Royals are reluctant to trade Wacha or Lugo, he added anything is possible if the return fits his club's needs. That appears to include Ragans, who owns a 3.32 ERA and 10.8 K/9 in 57 starts for the Royals, and is under contract until 2029.</p><p>"There would have to be a really big return for one (starter) in particular," Picollo said.</p><p>The Royals missed the playoffs last season despite finishing the campaign with the seventh-best rotation by ERA.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - APRIL 24: Starting pitcher Cole Ragans #55 of the Kansas City Royals warms up prior to game one of a double-header against the Colorado Rockies at Kauffman Stadium on April 24, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Royals open to trading starter, Picollo says no one 'off limits'

Katie Taylor could be on the verge of one of the biggest paydays of her career.  The women's juni...

<p>Katie Taylor could be on the verge of one of the biggest paydays of her career.</p><p>The women's junior welterweight champion is currently negotiating a blockbuster bout with former UFC champion Ronda Rousey that would take place in Las Vegas in the summer of 2026, reports <a href="https://www.boxingscene.com/articles/katie-taylor-vs-ronda-rousey-in-the-works-for-las-vegas-showdown-in-2026">Lance Pugmire of Boxing Scene</a>.</p><p>The potential high-profile matchup has reportedly drawn interest from Netflix, which previously broadcast Taylor's third championship fight against Amanda Serrano to nearly six million viewers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Taylor addressed the news Tuesday, saying she's "absolutely" open to fighting Rousey.</p><p>"It's just a very interesting fight," Taylor told <a href="http://www.boxingscene.com/articles/katie-taylor-very-very-open-to-fighting-ronda-rousey">Pugmire</a>. "Seeing all the headlines this morning, I was thinking, 'OK, I'm up and ready for this fight.'"</p><p>She added: "It's a fight that will interest and capture the imagination of the fans, and that's what boxing needs. I'd be very, very happy to fight Ronda."</p><p>Taylor is considered one of the best women's boxers of all time. The Irishwoman, who last fought in July and has been noncommittal about her future, holds three of the four titles in her division and has won 25 of her 26 professional fights.</p><p>Once among the most popular UFC fighters, Rousey retired from MMA in 2016 following back-to-back losses to Holly Holm and Amanda Nunes.</p><p>Rousey began a professional wrestling career in 2018. She wrestled for WWE until 2023 and announced in October that she's retired from professional wrestling.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 30: Ronda Rousey prepares to walk to the Octagon to face Amanda Nunes in their UFC bantamweight championship bout during the UFC 207 event at T-Mobile Arena on December 30, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Report: Taylor, Rousey negotiating 2026 showdown

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The landmark federal antitrust trial against NASCAR opened Monday with thr...

<p>CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The landmark federal antitrust trial against NASCAR opened Monday with three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin breaking down in tears minutes into his testimony as the first witness in a case that could upend the venerable stock car series.</p><p>Hamlin's 23XI Racing, which he co-owns with Michael Jordan, and Front Row Motorsports claim the series is a monopolistic bully that leaves its teams no option but to comply with rules and financing they don't agree with.</p><p>As Jordan watched from the gallery, Hamlin began to cry and had to stop and compose himself when asked how he got into racing. He disclosed to The Associated Press last month that his father is dying, and he said on the stand he was emotional because his dad "is not in great health."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We got to when I was about 20 and a decision had to be made, I could keep racing or go out and work for my dad's trailer business," Hamlin testified, adding that he later was thinking about what retirement looked like and found a team going out of business. He needed a partner and turned to Jordan, who he had developed a friendship with when the Basketball Hall of Famer owned the Charlotte Hornets and Hamlin was a season-ticket holder.</p><p>"If I can't be successful with Michael as a partner, I knew this was never going to work," he said.</p><p>The references to his early days in auto racing and the sacrifices his family made were intended to show how difficult it is for both team owners and drivers to make it at the top level of the sport. He said he never would have been able to start 23XI in 2021 had he not partnered with Jordan.</p><p>Because of Jordan's presence with the team, Hamlin testified, 23XI has turned a profit in all but one of its five seasons of operation. His attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, said in his opening statement that fast-food restaurant entrepreneur Bob Jenkins has never turned a profit since starting his Front Row team in 2004.</p><p>Front Row won the 2021 Daytona 500. </p><p>At the heart of the lawsuit is NASCAR's revenue sharing model, which 23XI and Front Row argue is unfair to race teams that often operate at a loss. Hamlin testified it cost $20 million to bring a single car to the track over a 38-race season, not including overhead expenses such as driver salary.</p><p>Kessler said a NASCAR-commissioned study found that 75% of teams lost money in 2024.</p><p>"So, why would these people do this if you are just going to lose money because NASCAR isn't giving you a fair deal?” Kessler said as Jordan watched from the gallery. "Because you love stock car racing, and there's nowhere else to do it."</p><p>The charter agreements signed for this year that triggered the lawsuit guarantee the teams $12.5 million in annual revenue. NASCAR argues the guaranteed payouts are an increase from $9 million from previous agreements, but Hamlin noted that 11 of the first 19 chartered teams are no longer in business. All three charters 23XI purchased came from teams that ceased operations.</p><p>Hamlin said 23XI paid $4.7 million for its first charter, $13.5 million for its second and $28 million for its third, acquired late last year.</p><p>The charter system guarantees a car a spot in the field each race week as well as a percentage of the purse and gives team owners an asset to sell should they want to get out of the business.</p><p>NASCAR attorneys argued that the charter system has created $1.5 billion in equity for the 36 chartered teams. Prior to the charter system, teams raced "open," with no guarantee they'd make the field or earn a payout.</p><p>The case has churned through hearings and arguments for more than a year despite calls from other NASCAR teams to settle. U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell even helped mediate a failed two-day summit in October.</p><p>A NASCAR victory could put 23XI, Front Row and their six combined cars out of business. Their charters — now being held by NASCAR — would likely be sold. The last charter went for $45 million, and NASCAR has indicated there is interest from potential buyers including private equity firms.</p><p>A win for the teams could lead to monetary damages and the potential demolition of NASCAR as it is run today. The judge has the power to unravel a monopoly, and nothing is off the table, from ordering a sale of NASCAR to the dismantling of the charter system.</p><p><strong>The allegations</strong></p><p>The charter system introduced in 2016 is NASCAR's version of the franchise model used by most professional sports leagues. Even with the charters, teams have argued that the revenue model is not viable. They wanted more favorable terms for the charters, including having them made permanent (they are renewable and revocable), a larger percentage of revenues and a voice in governance.</p><p>23XI and Front Row also argue NASCAR has a vice grip on all aspects of the racing series and allege a monopoly based on exclusivity clauses, ownership of most of the race tracks on the Cup Series schedule and its control of the rules and regulations. The two were the only teams out of 15 to not sign the charter extension a year ago and instead went to court.</p><p>NASCAR says it has not violated antitrust law because it has done nothing to restrain trade beyond normal business practices. NASCAR has also cited the option for cars to enter races as "open teams" and try to make the field in one of four nonchartered spots on qualifying speed. 23XI and Front Row raced this season as open teams, and while their combined six cars made every race, it cost the organizations millions in purse money.</p><p>The pretrial discovery process revealed NASCAR made more than $100 million in 2024.</p><p><strong>Behind-the-scenes drama</strong></p><p>The discovery phase was brutal for both sides. The antitrust allegations have exposed salacious personal communications, NASCAR's finances and a deep contempt between some of the top executives in the sport and its participants.</p><p>NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps was among leadership who in a discussion with other NASCAR executives called Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress a "dinosaur," an "idiot" and a "stupid redneck." The discussion also included a reference that Childress "owes his entire fortune to NASCAR" and needed "to be taken out back and flogged."</p><p>Another NASCAR executive alleged that fans of the sport can't read, and multiple series leaders admonished Hall of Fame driver Tony Stewart's summer short-track series, SRX, and threatened to have it killed because NASCAR drivers were participating.</p><p>On the other side, the president of 23XI was found to have said France had to die in order to receive favorable charter terms, Hamlin admitted his dislike for the France family, one of Jordan's advisers said Hamlin wasn't a good businessman and Jordan joked that he loses more money in a casino than he pays one of his drivers.</p><p><strong>Jordan's presence factors into the trial</strong></p><p>Jordan's presence in the courtroom gallery near Hamlin was a factor: Among those dismissed from serving on the jury was a man who said he can't be impartial because "I like Mike" and another who said he had Michael Jordan posters on his walls growing up. A juror said they were a North Carolina fan but noted the football team at Jordan’s alma mater is not "doing too well right now" to which the star shook his head and laughed.</p><p>NASCAR executives in the courtroom included chairman Jim France and vice chair Lisa France Kennedy, two scions of the family that founded NASCAR in 1948 and still owns it.</p><p> </p>

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 1: NASCAR Driver Denny Hamlin (L) and wife Jordan Fish depart the Charles R Jonas Federal Building on December 1, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Jury selection and an opening statement began an antitrust lawsuit filed by Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing team against NASCAR.

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Hamlin breaks down in tears while testifying at antitrust trial

The Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Marlins are both interested in signing former Tampa Bay Rays clos...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Marlins are both interested in signing former Tampa Bay Rays closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/11728" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/11728">Pete Fairbanks</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6850835/2025/12/01/mlb-offseason-free-agency-updates/">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Katie Woo</a>.</p><p>Most contenders have also checked in on Fairbanks, Rosenthal and Woo report.</p><p>The Blue Jays are in the market for late-inning relievers and were in the mix for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9598" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9598">Ryan Helsley</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4809" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4809">Raisel Iglesias</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8432" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8432">Phil Maton</a>. The team is familiar with Fairbanks, who spent the past seven seasons pitching for the Rays in the AL East before they declined his $11-million club option for 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto's bullpen finished 16th in ERA last season with closer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4786" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4786">Jeff Hoffman</a> setting a franchise record for home runs allowed in the ninth inning or later. He allowed a game-tying homer to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the World Series, which the Blue Jays went on to lose.</p><p>Fairbanks, who rarely allows homers, owns a 3.19 career ERA and 11.3 K/9. </p><p>The Marlins, like Toronto, are looking for late-inning relievers and have also been linked to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/11736" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/11736">Devin Williams</a>. Miami's bullpen finished fifth in win probability added last season but was 25th in K/9 and 27th in FIP.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - JUNE 23: Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Pete Fairbanks (29) delivers a pitch during an MLB game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on June 23, 2024 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Report: Blue Jays, Marlins among teams interested in Fairbanks

Tampa Bay Rays first base prospect Xavier Isaac revealed in an Instagram post Friday that he unde...

<p>Tampa Bay Rays first base prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17788" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17788">Xavier Isaac</a> revealed in an Instagram post Friday that he underwent "life-saving" brain surgery in July.</p><p>Isaac, 21, called the situation the "scariest moment of my life."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRm4NzNgIme/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DRm4NzNgIme/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
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<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Isaac started the 2025 campaign with Double-A Montgomery. His season ended in June, with his absence believed to be related to previous arm injuries, according to the <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/sports/rays/2025/11/28/xavier-isaac-life-saving-brain-surgery-instagram/">Tampa Bay Times' Marc Topkin</a>. Isaac asked the Rays not to share the details of his surgery.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 2022 first-round pick is expected to be ready for the start of spring training, according to Topkin.</p><p>Isaac is the Rays' No. 5-ranked prospect, according to <a href="https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/rays/">MLB Pipeline</a>. </p>

ARLINGTON, TX - JULY 13: Xavier Isaac #11 of the Tampa Bay Rays looks on during the 2024 All-Star Futures Game at Globe Life Field on Saturday, July 13, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Rays prospect Isaac reveals he had 'life-saving' brain surgery

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Bryan Mcwilliam

News Editor

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Tom Ruminski

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