The 2025-26 Major League Baseball offseason is heating up as we transition into the new year. With a myriad of high-profile free agents and trade possibilities still looming, fans are treated daily to a flurry of rumors and reports. Here’s a concise roundup of the latest updates as we keep an eye on the leagues’ movements.
Yankees Pursuing Starting Pitchers
The Yankees have been relatively quiet in the offseason, but they recognize the need to strengthen their rotation. Currently, they are exploring the trade market, showing interest in right-handers Edward Cabrera of the Marlins and Freddy Peralta of the Brewers, as reported by The Athletic.
Cabrera, who turns 28 in April, remains under team control through the 2028 season, boasting a career ERA+ of 108 and coming off the best season of his career. On the other hand, Peralta, now 29, is entering a pivotal year and has quietly become one of the league’s top pitchers. With 200 strikeouts in each of the last three seasons, his career metrics include a 117 ERA+ and a 3.66 FIP. Last season, he earned an All-Star selection and placed fifth in the NL Cy Young voting.
However, the Yankees face competition for Cabrera, as the Mets, Cubs, Astros, and Orioles are all showing varying degrees of interest, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
New York’s rotation presents a sizable challenge, as Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt will likely start the 2026 season on the injured list while recovering from elbow surgeries.
Phillies Among Top Contenders for Bichette
Shortstop Bo Bichette is a highly sought-after free agent this offseason. He has performed at a career OPS+ of 121, recently completing an impressive comeback in 2025. High-profile teams like the Phillies, Yankees, Cubs, Dodgers, and existing Blue Jays are all vying for Bichette, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post. CBS Sports previously ranked him as the No. 3 free agent available this winter.
Red Sox Aim to Retain Bregman
Veteran infielder Alex Bregman is back on the market after an impressive 2025 season with the Red Sox. He ranks as the second-best free agent this winter. R.J. Anderson highlighted Bregman’s performance, noting his streak of being at least 15% above the league-average hitter. Importantly, he joined the 90-90 club with a 90% in-zone contact rate and a 90 mph average exit velocity, showcasing his ability at the plate. Additionally, he remains a solid defender at third base.
The competition for his signature is intensifying. The Red Sox have reportedly made a substantial offer to retain Bregman, who played a pivotal role in their return to postseason contention last year. Keeping him could culminate a strong offseason for Boston, as confirmed by ESPN’s Buster Olney.
Blue Jays’ Moves Remain Active
The Blue Jays continue to be aggressive, most notably signing slugger Kazuma Okamoto out of Japan to a four-year deal. He is anticipated to take on a significant role at third base in the upcoming season. This move may affect their pursuit of Bregman, as suggested by The Athletic. Yet, they might still be in the running to retain shortstop Bo Bichette and remain interested in outfielder Kyle Tucker, the top free agent of this offseason.
