The MLB offseason is ongoing with key free agents like Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, and Alex Bregman still unsigned, and teams like the Cubs, Yankees, and Blue Jays actively making moves or planning for trades and signings to improve their rosters for the upcoming season.
Devin Williams, despite a challenging season with a high ERA and some pitching inconsistencies, signed a three-year, $51 million contract with the New York Mets, with underlying metrics suggesting he could rebound strongly in 2026, and his departure from the Yankees prompts a reevaluation of how reliever value is assessed beyond traditional stats like ERA.
The AL MVP race is very close between Yankees' Aaron Judge and Mariners' Cal Raleigh, with Judge leading in overall offensive stats and WAR, but Raleigh's record-breaking season as a catcher and recognition from players make the outcome uncertain.
Pittsburgh Pirates' star pitcher Paul Skenes reportedly desires a trade to the New York Yankees, according to a former teammate, amid ongoing speculation about his future with the Pirates, who have no plans to trade him and see him as a key part of their team through 2026.
All-Star pitcher Paul Skenes has expressed a desire to be traded to the New York Yankees, citing concerns about the Pirates' competitiveness, and his comments have increased the likelihood of a future trade, with the Yankees seen as a prime destination.
Paul Skenes, a top Pirates rookie and Cy Young favorite, has expressed a desire to play for the Yankees, leading to speculation about a future trade due to Pirates' low payroll and winning record. Pirates GM Ben Cherington dismisses the trade rumors but acknowledges Skenes' ambitions and the team's focus on winning to retain him long-term.
MLB GMs predict outfielder Kyle Tucker will sign with the Yankees, Dodgers, or Blue Jays this offseason, with Tucker expected to secure a multi-year deal exceeding $300 million after a strong 2025 season with the Cubs.
Aroldis Chapman's inflammatory comments have highlighted longstanding issues with Yankees management, particularly Brian Cashman's repeated misjudgments in acquiring high-profile players like Chapman, whose tenure and behavior reflect poorly on the franchise's decision-making and talent evaluation over the past decade.
HBO's docuseries 'Alex vs. ARod' offers an honest look at Alex Rodriguez's career, including his regrets, struggles with performance-enhancing drugs, therapy, and personal growth, amidst mixed reactions from fans and critics.
The Yankees will exercise their club option on reliever Tim Hill for 2026 at $3 million, while declining their option on Jonathan Loaisiga, making him a free agent. Hill has been effective with a 2.68 ERA over two seasons, and his groundball skills make him a valuable bullpen asset. Loaisiga, once a promising closer candidate, has struggled with injuries and inconsistency, and is likely to seek a minor league deal this winter. The Yankees' bullpen appears well-stocked but may seek additional help for closing roles.
Cody Bellinger has opted out of his $25 million contract with the Yankees to become a free agent, after a strong season where he hit .272 with 29 home runs and a high WAR of 5.0. The 30-year-old outfielder, who previously played for the Dodgers and Cubs, is expected to attract multiple teams interested in his services.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the early favorites to win the 2026 World Series with +350 odds, followed by the Yankees (+700) and Phillies (+1000), with other teams like the Blue Jays, Mets, and Mariners also in the mix for next year's championship.
Jesús Montero, a former MLB catcher for the Yankees and Mariners, died at 35 following a motorcycle accident in Venezuela that left him in critical condition for two weeks. He was remembered for his effort and passion for baseball, with his career including notable stints in Major League Baseball and the Venezuelan Winter League.
Jesús Montero, a former Yankees top prospect, died at 35 in a motorcycle accident in Venezuela. His ex-wife, Taneth Gimenez, paid tribute to him on Instagram, sharing photos of their family and expressing her love and remembrance. Montero was a promising player who debuted with the Yankees in 2011 and later played for Seattle before retiring in 2015. The Yankees expressed their condolences.
Jesús Montero, a former Yankees top prospect and MLB player, died at 35 following a severe motorcycle accident in Venezuela that left him in an induced coma. Montero was known for his promising start with the Yankees and later played for the Mariners, but his career did not meet early expectations.