The MLB Winter Meetings, baseball's busiest offseason event, begin Sunday in Orlando with expectations of major trades, free agent signings, and rumors. Key questions surround top free agents like Kyle Tucker, potential trades such as Nolan Arenado, and Hall of Fame announcements.
The Winter Meetings open Sunday in Orlando for four days of intense activity, including trades, free agent deals, and hot stove discussions. These gatherings typically see the offseason's biggest moves, as teams negotiate amid a crowded market.
Top free agent Kyle Tucker remains unsigned, drawing interest from contenders like the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees. Teams missing out may turn to Cody Bellinger, the next-best outfielder available. Last year, Juan Soto signed during the meetings, and Tucker could follow suit.
The Cardinals appear set to trade Nolan Arenado after a farewell ceremony in their final home game. St. Louis recently paid $20 million to send Sonny Gray to the Red Sox and owes Arenado $37 million over two seasons. With his full no-trade clause, Arenado seeks a contender, though options like free agents Alex Bregman and Eugenio Suárez may limit interest.
Surprise trades often emerge, as seen with the Astros shopping Tucker last year and the Chris Sale deal two seasons ago. The pitching market is active, with Dylan Cease signing a seven-year, $210 million deal with the Blue Jays after Gray's trade. Remaining free agents include Michael King, Ranger Suárez, and Framber Valdez, while trade targets feature Sandy Alcantara and Joe Ryan.
Japanese stars Tatsuya Imai, Munetaka Murakami, and Kazuma Okamoto are posted, with signing windows open until December 22 for Murakami and January 2 for the others. Possible re-signings involve Bregman with the Red Sox, Bo Bichette with the Blue Jays, and Kyle Schwarber with the Phillies.
All 30 managers will address reporters, potentially revealing news on injuries or position changes. The Contemporary Era Committee announces Hall of Fame results Sunday evening, considering candidates like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Fernando Valenzuela, who need 12 of 16 votes. The draft lottery and Rule 5 Draft also loom, with past successes like the White Sox's Shane Smith.