Major League Baseball will return to NBC and Peacock in 2026 with a full schedule of games including Sunday Night Baseball, special events like 'Star-Spangled Sunday,' and playoff coverage, starting with an Opening Day doubleheader on March 26.
The article discusses key baseball offseason updates, including Tarik Skubal's potential arbitration hearing which could set a new salary record, Cody Bellinger's ongoing contract negotiations with the Yankees amid a possible impasse over contract length, and the Red Sox hosting Fenway Fest to engage fans before the season.
The article explores how the St. Louis Cardinals are integrating advanced sports technology, such as force plates, motion capture, high-speed cameras, wearables, and biomechanical analysis, to enhance player performance and injury prevention, highlighting a holistic approach to data-driven baseball training.
Broadway star Derek Klena is joining the Savannah Bananas, a team in the viral Banana Ball baseball league known for its entertainment and TikTok appeal, with the preseason starting in February and regular season in April, including a notable game at Yankee Stadium.
The Cleveland Guardians are signing pitcher Pedro Avila to a one-year split contract, providing him with a chance to compete for a spot on the roster and offering the team flexibility. Avila, who has experience in both MLB and Japan, has shown solid performance as a reliever and starter, and the contract structure aims to benefit both parties by making him less likely to be claimed off waivers and more likely to stay with the team.
The article lists MLB free agents for the 2025-26 season, including players across various positions such as catchers, infielders, outfielders, pitchers, and relievers, with their ages in 2026.
The Oakland Athletics have signed outfielder Tyler Soderstrom to a seven-year, $86 million extension, including a club option for 2033 and potential escalators, securing his future with the team through his age-31 season and making it the largest contract in club history.
The Cincinnati Reds have signed infielder Michael Chavis to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training, bringing back a player with major league experience and defensive versatility, despite recent struggles overseas and in the majors.
The Miami Marlins are signing reliever Pete Fairbanks to a one-year, $13 million contract, making him likely their closer for the upcoming season. Fairbanks, who previously played for the Rays, had a strong 2025 season with a 2.83 ERA and is known for his high-velocity fastball and effective strikeout ability. The deal includes incentives and a trade bonus, and it helps bolster the Marlins' bullpen, which has been in need of improvement. This move is part of the Marlins' broader offseason spending plans.
The Kansas City Royals are making strategic moves, including acquiring reliever Matt Strahm and developing young players like Jac Caglianone, who showed promise despite a challenging rookie season. The team is focused on building for the future with an emphasis on improving their roster both offensively and defensively, while also preparing for a new stadium in Kansas. Meanwhile, other sports news includes the Chiefs moving to Kansas, potential European basketball league developments, and notable auction sales.
The Astros, Pirates, and Rays completed a three-team trade involving Brandon Lowe, Mike Burrows, Jacob Melton, and other prospects, with Lowe moving to Pittsburgh, Burrows to Houston, and Melton to Tampa, as each team aims to strengthen their roster through strategic trades.
The New York Mets are close to signing reliever Luke Weaver to a two-year, $22 million deal, adding depth to their bullpen after a challenging 2025 season, with Weaver bringing a strong recent track record as a reliever and former starter.
Kevin O'Sullivan has returned as head baseball coach for the Florida Gators after a personal leave of absence, ready to lead the team into the 2026 season.
Aaron Capista, Schwarber's personal hitting coach for eight years, has played a crucial role in transforming Schwarber into a top hitter through a rigorous, honest, and deeply personal training relationship that emphasizes trust, resilience, and relentless improvement, contributing significantly to Schwarber's recent career success and contract.
The Dodgers are re-signing Miguel Rojas for one year at $5.5 million, with plans for him to transition into a player development role after his final playing season in 2026. Rojas, a versatile infielder and clubhouse leader, has been a key bench contributor and is valued for his leadership and utility skills.