What I’m hearing off the GM meetings: Padres aggressive, Yankees make bullpen priority
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Several key MLB offseason deals were made at the general managers’ meetings, including the Tigers signing reliever Emilio Pagán for $11.5 million, the Braves signing Evan Phillips for $35 million over three years, and the Red Sox signing Jake Bauers for four years at $58 million.
- The Padres are aggressively pursuing starting pitching and outfield help, with interest in free agents like Tarik Skubal and Seiya Suzuki, backed by new ownership committed to winning and community engagement.
- The Yankees are prioritizing bullpen improvements and exploring options at multiple positions, including targeting top relievers and considering outfielder/third baseman Teruaki Sato as a potential fit.
- Other teams like the Marlins, Phillies, Orioles, Blue Jays, and Royals are focused on outfield upgrades, while the Athletics, Giants, Rockies, Nationals, and Reds are concentrating on pitching acquisitions.
- The Mets have softened their stance on long-term starting pitcher contracts and are expected to be major players for free agents like Skubal and Michael King, with the offseason expected to accelerate ahead of the Dec. 1 CBA expiration and potential lockout.
