The Tarik Skubal sweepstakes is heating up, and talk about a plot twist: the Dodgers are reportedly facing financial constraints that could seriously limit their ability to re-sign this off-season’s top free agent. That’s a huge development, completely changing the landscape for one of the most sought-after arms on the market.
Mets Eyeing The Mound While GM Meetings Kick Off
Jon Heyman from MLB Network already likes the Mets’ chances, saying yesterday he favors them “at this point” in the Skubal pursuit. Now, the GM meetings are kicking off in Las Vegas, and it sounds like the Mets are getting aggressive. SNY MLB insider Chelsea Janes, reporting from the meetings, says, “I think the Mets are going to be looking to make some trades for starting pitching.” She doesn’t expect them to “go full free agency.” Anthony DiComo is looking at what else the Mets might address while they chase Skubal. In other roster news, the Dodgers claimed infielder Christian Cairo off waivers from the Mets, who had designated him for assignment earlier. Infielder Kyren Paris, also designated, cleared waivers and was outrighted to Triple-A Syracuse.
Rookie Of The Year Battles Decided
Over in the National League, the Rookie of the Year voting is in, and it was a tight race. Carson Benge finished second, with Reds first baseman Sal Stewart taking the top spot thanks to his massive home run and RBI totals. Benge had a more well-rounded season, but Stewart’s power numbers were just too much. Two other Mets, Nolan McLean and A.J. Ewing, also got votes, finishing fourth and ninth respectively. Early-season NL favorite JJ Wetherholt of the Cardinals came in third behind Stewart and Benge, an injury holding him back at the end of the season. On the American League side, Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle absolutely dominated the voting, winning the honor decisively. Parker Messick and Payton Tolle rounded out the top three. Awards Week is on, with Brent Maguire of MLB.com covering the major storylines.
What’s Brewing Around The League
The GM meetings are usually a bit slow, but a looming lockout has everyone expecting a flurry of activity this year. It’s a different vibe entirely. The Cubs are definitely going to be active, with their starting rotation being the biggest priority this off-season. While they might look good on paper for the Skubal sweepstakes, they “appear unlikely to enter the b” from what’s being reported. Around the NL East, the Braves have “no interest” in trading Ronald Acuña Jr., which isn’t shocking. The Phillies are reportedly looking at shortstop Ha-Seong Kim as insurance, especially if they move Trea Turner, who hasn’t been great defensively. The Miami Marlins are all about left-handed pitching, targeting Adrian Morejon, Alex Vesia, and Sean Newcomb in free agency. And while the Nationals will mostly focus on pitching, Sam Sallick of Federal Baseball thinks Paul Toboni might try to add a bat too.
With the GM meetings just getting started, it’s clear this off-season is already shaping up to be a wild one. Everyone’s watching to see who makes the big moves, especially with that lockout looming large.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Amazin’ Avenue.
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