With the Holidays and New Year’s over let’s hope the Hot Stove starts to heat up again. Still a lot of top free agents left, Chris Davis, Yoenis Cespedes, Alex Gordon and Justin Upton. Free agents market is developing a little slower than past years. Lots left to do with time running out slowly. Only 44 days until Pitchers & Catchers report.
NEWS
Cuban RHP Yasiel Sierra has been granted free agency. The 24 year old is now free to sign with any team without restriction.
TRANSACTIONS
The Yankees have acquired LHP Aroldis Chapman from the Reds. The Reds will receive prospect INF Eric Jagielo, prospect RHP Rookie Davis, minor league INF Tony Renda and minor league RHP Caleb Cotham.
The Brewers signed OF Eric Young Jr. to a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite.
The Nationals have signed INF Stephen Drew to a 1 year/$3 million contract plus incentives.
The Dodgers have signed LHP Scott Kazmir to a 3 year/$48 million contract with an opt out after first year.
The Rangers signed C Michael McKenry to a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite.
The Dodgers have signed RHP Kenta Maeda to a 8 year/$25 million contract plus he can earn $10-12 million a year in incentives.
RUMORS
The Tigers have been getting calls about 3B Nick Castellanos.
The Nationals are looking to add an outfielder.
The Orioles and White Sox are reportedly favorites to land OF Yoenis Cespedes.
The Marlins also tried to acquire LHP Aroldis Chapman. Reds preferred Yankees offer.
The D-Backs still looking for offense, have spoken with 2B Howie Kendrick.
The Rockies have serious interest in OF Gerardo Parra.
The Dodgers are reportedly keeping an eye on RHP Yovani Gallardo and OF Alex Gordon.
The Royals are still looking to add to their starting rotation.
The Padres have had ongoing discussions with SS Ian Desmond.
The Orioles are considering signing 1B Pedro Alvarez.
The Reds have interest in a reunion with RHP Bronson Arroyo.
The Braves are trying to deal at least one of OF Michael Bourn or OF Nick Swisher.