NEWS
A lockout is still a possibility as the league and the union negotiate the next CBA in advance of Thursday’s deadline (Dec. 1st), but there are strong hopes it can be avoided after MLB offered to remove the current system of draft pick forfeiture associated with the qualifying offer.
The Dodgers are under MLB mandate to reduce their debt, which is in the hundreds of millions.
Some more players that committed to play in the WBC are: Francisco Cervelli (Italy), Adrian Gonzalez (Mexico), Edwin Diaz (Puerto Rico), Carlos Gonzalez (Venezuela), Dellin Betances (DR).
TRANSACTIONS
The Twins have signed C Jason Castro to a 3 year/$24.5 million contract.
The Rockies have signed INF Josh Rutledge to a minor league deal with a Spring Training invite.
The Mariners have acquired SS Jean Segura, OF prospect Mitch Haniger and LHP Zac Curtis from the D-Backs. The D-Backs will receive RHP Taijuan Walker and SS Ketel Marte.
The Braves have signed INF Sean Rodriguez to a 2 year/$10 million contract with a $1.5 million signing bonus.
RUMORS
The Blue Jays have made a 4 year contract offer to 1B Edwin Encarnacion for about $80 million.
The Orioles have interest in C Nick Hundley as a backup plan if Matt Wieters signs elsewhere.
The Rockies have some interest in signing OF Carlos Gonzalez to an extension.
The Marlins have some interest in veteran LHP C.J. Wilson.
The Giants have had internal discussions about trying to acquire 3B Pablo Sandoval from the Red Sox.
Several teams are showing interest in Tiger’s DH Victor Martinez.
The Cardinals are looking for center field help this offseason.