NEWS
Former Royals closer is set to host a showcase for interested teams in the next week. He missed the 2016 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. He was an All-Star in 2013 and 2014.
The Phillies have announced they have hired Matt Stairs to be their new hitting coach. He played in 19 MLB seasons with 12 different teams including the Phillies in 2008 and 2009.
The Diamondbacks have hired Torey Lovello as their new manager and he will receive a 3 year deal. Lovello has been Boston’s bench coach for the last four seasons.
The Indians have exercised manager Terry Francona’s 2019 and 2020 options.
Yoenis Cespedes opts out of his contract with the Mets. He is leaving 2 years and $47.5 million on the table. He could be looking for a 5 year deal.
The Rockies have hired Bud Black as their new manager. Black had a 15 year MLB career with 5 different teams and managed the Padres for 9 seasons.
TRANSACTIONS
The Giants signed RHP Josh Johnson to a minor league deal. He hasn’t pitched in a major league game since 2013.
The Rays have acquired LHP John Lamb from the Reds. The Reds will receive cash back in return.
The Indians picked up their club option on DH/1B Carlos Santana. He will make $12 million next year.
The Rangers picked up their club option on C Jonathan Lucroy. He will make $5.25 next year.
The Astros have claimed OF Nori Aoki off of waivers from the Mariners.
The Angels have acquired OF Cameron Maybin from the Tigers. The Tigers will receive RHP Victor Alcantara. Alcantara is currently playing in the Arizona Fall League.
The Phillies have acquired RHP Pat Neshek from the Astros. The Astros will receive a PTBNL or cash.
The Mariners have acquired C Carlos Ruiz from the Dodgers. The Mariners will pick up his $4.5 million option for next season. The Dodgers will receive LHP Vidal Nuno.
RUMORS
The Marlins are willing to make a few of their position players available if they can improve their rotation.
The Royals have had open talks with LHP Danny Duffy regarding an extension.
Barring an offer of something crazy the Braves are likely to keep outfielders Kemp, Markakis and Inciarte.