The 2025-26 MLB offseason features active rumors around free agents and trades. Arizona Diamondbacks are exploring a move for Alex Bregman amid potential Ketel Marte trade discussions. Meanwhile, Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai draws strong interest from several teams ahead of his January 2 deadline.
Diamondbacks Eye Bregman
The Arizona Diamondbacks are considering free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman as a potential replacement if they trade second baseman Ketel Marte. Marte has five years and $91 million remaining on his contract, and rumors of clubhouse issues have surfaced since late summer. Infield prospect Jordan Lawlar's versatility at second and third base could facilitate such a shift, allowing Bregman to join as a star infielder while Arizona competes in the NL West.
Imai's Market Heats Up
Right-hander Tatsuya Imai, a top starting pitcher from Japan's NPB, is expected to select an MLB team soon due to posting rules. Imai has indicated no interest in the Los Angeles Dodgers, with the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies emerging as frontrunners, per the Wall Street Journal. CBS Sports ranks him as the No. 12 free agent, highlighting his dominant 1.92 ERA, 3.96 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 163 innings, mid-90s velocity, and forkball-like slider. Despite past command issues, he projects as at least a No. 3 starter.
King's Decision Looms
Free-agent starter Michael King, 30, may decide his next team shortly. The Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Cubs, Baltimore Orioles, and Mets are leading contenders. King transitioned to starting with the San Diego Padres after leaving New York, posting an ERA+ of 134 and FIP of 3.65 across 45 starts and one relief outing.
Mets Consider Rotation Overhaul
New York Mets, having moved Pete Alonso, Edwin Díaz, and Brandon Nimmo for Jorge Polanco, Devin Williams, and Marcus Semien, are open to trading pitchers David Peterson and Kodai Senga on a contract-for-contract basis. The goal is to bolster the rotation around prospect Nolan McLean.
Yankees Seek Weaver Reunion
The Yankees show mutual interest in re-signing free-agent reliever Luke Weaver, 32, who locked down their bullpen recently. This follows Devin Williams' departure to the Mets.
Recent Signings
The San Francisco Giants agreed to a two-year, $22 million deal with Adrian Houser, 32, including a club option. Houser excelled with the Chicago White Sox (6-2, 2.10 ERA, 3.0 WAR in 11 starts) before struggling with the Tampa Bay Rays (2-3, 4.79 ERA, 0.3 WAR in 10 starts). The Cincinnati Reds signed lefty reliever Caleb Ferguson to a one-year deal; he posted a 3.58 ERA and 1.16 WHIP with 51 strikeouts in 65 1/3 innings across 70 appearances last year.
