As December approaches, baseball fans eagerly anticipate the annual Winter Meetings, which are set to take place in Orlando over four bustling days. This event often serves as a pivotal moment in the offseason, characterized by a flurry of trades, free-agent signings, and a multitude of rumors. Here’s a look at the latest hot stove discussions leading up to this important gathering.
Yankees Eyeing Kyle Tucker as Contingent Plan
Recent reports indicate that the New York Yankees are considering Kyle Tucker as a secondary option behind Cody Bellinger in their pursuit of outfield talent. While both players are highly regarded, Tucker has been identified as the top free agent on the market this offseason. However, Bellinger is expected to be more cost-effective and brings versatility, having proven himself with the Yankees last season.
The Yankees remain committed to acquiring a top-tier outfielder even after recent developments regarding Trent Grisham, who accepted a significant qualifying offer. Acquiring either Bellinger or Tucker could set the stage for dealing Jasson DomÃnguez, a young talent who had a solid but underwhelming first full season, often overshadowed by other veterans in high-stakes games.
Red Sox Poised to Enhance Offense
Following the acquisition of Sonny Gray, the Boston Red Sox are now focused on revitalizing an offense that finished 15th in home runs in the 2025 season. Sources have indicated the team is eyeing multiple offensive upgrades, including potential pursuits of Pete Alonso or a reunion with Alex Bregman. Additionally, they may explore adding a mid-tier hitter, such as Jorge Polanco.
The Red Sox face a critical need to address their corner infield prospects and enhance a lineup that often skews too left-handed. Hence, their interest in Alonso and Bregman, both right-handed hitters. The possibility of acquiring two new hitters could also coincide with trading away an outfielder, perhaps Wilyer Abreu or Jarren Duran. What’s evident is that the Sonny Gray trade is likely just the beginning of an active offseason for the Red Sox.
Extension Prospects for Misiorowski Remain Uncertain
Contract extension discussions between the Milwaukee Brewers and their hard-throwing pitcher Jacob Misiorowski have slowed, according to recent reports. While there is no immediate urgency to secure an agreement—since Misiorowski won’t hit free agency until after the 2031-32 offseason—locking him in sooner could provide the Brewers with a significant financial advantage.
It is uncommon for teams to offer long-term deals to pitchers with less than a year of service time; such occurrences have been rare across MLB history. Notably, the Brewers have successfully locked in players like Aaron Ashby in similar situations. For a smaller market team like Milwaukee, early extensions may be the key to maintaining their talent pool beyond their control years.
