The Cincinnati Reds are interested in signing Kyle Schwarber, a top power hitter coming off a 56-homer season, to bolster their offense, but his high salary demands could challenge their budget. The Giants are also in contact with Schwarber, though fit and financial considerations make a signing less likely. Other teams like the Orioles and Red Sox are also interested in Schwarber, who has rejected a qualifying offer, meaning his signing would involve forfeiting draft picks.
The Boston Red Sox selected power-hitting outfielder Braden Montgomery with the 12th pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, a move considered a major steal as Montgomery was projected to go much higher. Analysts praise his potential, noting his strong arm and power, though he needs to improve his contact hitting. This continues a trend of successful draft picks for the Red Sox in recent years.
The Kansas City Royals selected power-hitting first baseman Jac Caglianone from the University of Florida with the sixth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. Caglianone, known for his 80-grade power and impressive junior season stats, is expected to rise quickly to the major leagues.
New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso has expressed his desire to be a "lifelong Met" as he enters the final year of club control, stating that he loves New York and is open to long-term contract discussions. Alonso, who recently switched to agent Scott Boras, signed a one-year deal and is focused on the upcoming season while leaving the future uncertain.
The San Francisco Giants have reportedly agreed to a three-year, $42 million deal with slugger Jorge Soler, who declined a $9 million player option with the Miami Marlins after a strong season. The Giants hope Soler's power will boost their offense, which struggled in home runs and slugging percentage last season. Soler, known for his power but also for strikeouts, has a track record of hitting and was a key player in the Atlanta Braves' World Series win in 2021.
The San Francisco Giants signed free-agent slugger Jorge Soler to a three-year, $42 million contract, pending a physical, to bolster their lineup with much-needed power ahead of spring training. Soler, a prodigious power hitter with a tendency for strikeouts, led the Miami Marlins with 36 home runs last season and brings the potential for significant offensive impact to the Giants as their regular designated hitter. The deal comes as the Giants aim to address their lack of power in the lineup, with Soler being one of the few hitters in recent years to surpass the 30-homer threshold, a feat last achieved by a Giants player 20 years ago.
The San Francisco Giants are set to sign free agent Jorge Soler to a three-year deal pending a physical. Soler, known for his power hitting, opted out of his previous contract with the Marlins after hitting 36 home runs last season. The Giants, in need of power in their lineup, see Soler as a valuable addition, especially against left-handed pitchers. While primarily serving as the designated hitter, Soler may also make occasional appearances in the outfield. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but the Giants have the payroll flexibility to potentially pursue other high-profile free agents.
The Washington Nationals have agreed to a one-year contract with power hitter Joey Gallo, addressing their need for more home run production. Gallo, known for his impressive power but low batting average, brings left-handed hitting and strong defense to the team. The deal is pending a physical and will pay him $5 million with potential for $1 million in bonuses. As the Nationals aim to build a contender, Gallo's addition fills a gap in the roster while providing flexibility for potential young outfield prospects and trade opportunities in the future.
The New York Yankees' recent acquisition of Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres is reminiscent of the franchise-changing trade that brought Roger Maris to the team in 1959. Soto, a power-hitting lefty, is seen as the missing piece in the Yankees' lineup, providing balance and offensive prowess. Like Maris, Soto is a young player with impressive accomplishments, including a World Series win and MVP runner-up. The Yankees hope that Soto's arrival will rejuvenate the team and lead to success in the upcoming season.
The Milwaukee Brewers have called up former American League MVP Josh Donaldson to join their team as the starting third baseman. Donaldson, who recently signed a Minor League deal with the Brewers, will provide a power bat against left-handed pitching, an area where the team has struggled. The timing of his arrival is fortunate as leadoff man Christian Yelich is currently sidelined. Donaldson's addition pushes other players down the depth chart and brings a veteran presence to the lineup. Despite some rust, Donaldson feels ready to contribute and help salvage the Brewers' season.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have selected first baseman Joe Vetrano from Boston College as their fifth-round pick in the 2023 MLB Draft. Vetrano, a power-hitting left-hander, had an impressive junior season with a .315 batting average, 22 home runs, and 64 RBI. He is ranked as the No. 127 prospect in the draft and is known for his power potential. The 163rd overall pick comes with a recommended slot value of $364,400.
The Detroit Tigers selected high school third baseman Carson Rucker in the fourth round of the 2023 MLB Draft. Rucker, ranked 132nd among draft prospects, brings power to the plate and will need to be signed away from a Tennessee commitment. The Tigers have focused on high school hitters in this draft, with four out of their five picks coming from the prep ranks. Rucker's skills suggest he can remain at third base, and he may get a chance to showcase his abilities in the professional ranks this season. The Tigers have more picks remaining in the draft.
The Chicago Cubs selected Maryland infielder Matt Shaw as their first-round pick in the MLB Draft. Shaw is known for his impressive performance at the plate, consistently posting high OPS numbers throughout his college career. Standing at 5-11 and 185 pounds, Shaw has built his body and maintained his explosiveness and athleticism. While his swing mechanics have evolved over the years, he possesses quick hands, strong wrists, and the ability to adjust his swing plane to match the pitch. Shaw has a "sit pitches" approach, which has served him well as he has been the best player on every team he's played for. The Cubs will work with him to improve his plate discipline and lower his swing rate in certain counts. The power projection for Shaw is uncertain, but his ability to hit the ball far to right-center field and his contact quality give reason for optimism. The Cubs announced Shaw as a second baseman, but there is a possibility he could play third base. Overall, Shaw is considered a talented prospect and is expected to start in A-ball before progressing through the minor leagues.
The Los Angeles Angels selected first baseman Nolan Schanuel with the 11th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft. Schanuel, who had an impressive season at Florida Atlantic University, boasts a dominant offensive performance with a .447/.615/.868 slash line, 19 home runs, and 71 walks. The Angels believe he is close to being Major League ready, following the footsteps of their previous highly developed college picks. Schanuel expressed his excitement and readiness to join the Angels organization, showcasing his knowledge of the team. He credits a change in his approach at the plate and improved vision for his increased power and success. The Angels plan to start him off at first base but may introduce him to the outfield in the future.
The St. Louis Cardinals selected Arizona slugger Chase Davis with the 21st overall pick in the MLB draft. Davis, known for his projectable power, hit 21 home runs in his junior season and 39 in the past two seasons for Arizona. The Cardinals, who had only one pick on Day 1 of the draft, went for the biggest slugger still available and are excited about Davis' potential.
