The baseball world is abuzz with the latest developments as we approach the start of the season. Today, we delve into three key areas of focus:
- Opt-Out Decisions and Free Agency:
The stage is set for a pivotal day as several veteran players with minor league deals face uniform opt-out clauses in their contracts. This presents them with a golden opportunity to return to free agency before Opening Day, with additional chances throughout the year. Among the notable players on this list are Padres right-hander Walker Buehler, Braves left-hander Martín Pérez, Mets reliever Craig Kimbrel, Cubs outfielder Michael Conforto, and Guardians first baseman Rhys Hoskins. The question looms: Will any of these players return to free agency, or will their clubs add them to the 40-man roster ahead of their impending opt-out decisions? The fate of these players hangs in the balance, leaving fans and analysts alike eagerly awaiting the outcome.
- Late Spring Trades:
The trading landscape is heating up as teams make last-minute adjustments to their rosters. The Twins, for instance, have been shopping catcher Alex Jackson, who was initially signed with a likely path toward being part of the club’s catching tandem. However, after a change in philosophy during the offseason, the Twins kept Ryan Jeffers and signed Victor Caratini to a two-year deal, leaving Jackson as the third catcher. With his $1.35MM salary and no minor league options, the Twins are now exploring trade options for Jackson. Similarly, the Royals have indicated an openness to moving southpaw Bailey Falter, who is out of minor league options and lacks a clear path to a rotation spot. The Royals may not want to dedicate his $3.6MM salary to a swingman, further fueling the trade speculation.
- Woodruff's Opening Day Readiness:
The spotlight shines on right-hander Brandon Woodruff, the ace of the Brewers’ pitching staff following the departures of Corbin Burnes and Freddy Peralta. However, Woodruff’s Opening Day status remains uncertain. The Brewers have been cautious throughout Spring Training, avoiding a decision on whether Woodruff will begin the season in the rotation or be given additional time to build up on the injured list following a lat strain last year. Today’s spring start against the Rangers is a critical test for Woodruff. If he looks sharp and pitches reasonably deep into the game while maintaining his stuff, it will significantly boost his chances of being ready to take the mound on Opening Day. The game, scheduled for 6:10 pm local time, will be a pivotal moment in determining Woodruff’s season-opening role.
