NEWS
MLB Umpire Dale Scott retires rather risk anymore concussions. He last umped in April where he got his 4th concussion in the last 5 years. He umpired in MLB for 32 years and spent 16 years as a crew chief. Scott worked 3,897 regular season games as well as three World Series, three All-Star games and 91 postseason games.
Angels newest star Shohei Ohtani has a sprained UCL in throwing elbow. It is worth noting that teams knew of Ohtani’s medical report during the posting process.
TRANSACTIONS
The Padres have acquired 3B Chase Headley, RHP Bryan Mitchell and $500K from the Yankees. The Yankees will receive OF Jabari Blash.
The Rays have acquired INF Ryan Schimpf from the Padres. The Padres will receive minor league INF Deion Tansel.
The Rockies have signed RHP Bryan Shaw to a 3-year deal in the area of $9 million per season.
The Phillies have signed RHP Tommy Hunter to a 2 year/$18 million contract.
The Cubs have signed LHP Drew Smyly to a 2 year/$10 million contract plus incentives. Smyly had TJ surgery in June and likely won’t pitch until the 2019 season.
RUMORS
RHP Chris Archer is drawing plenty of attention on the trade market.
The Phillies are considering making a run at RHP Jake Arrieta.
The Yankees are looking to swing a trade for a starting pitcher. Tigers Michael Fulmer and D-Backs Patrick Corbin on their radar in early talks.
2B Neil Walker has been seeking a four-year deal.
The Mets, Rockies and Blue Jays among the teams eyeing OF Jay Bruce.
The Nationals have also expressed interest in RHP Jake Arrieta.
The Orioles are reportedly asking for offers on 3B Manny Machado from interested teams.
OF Carlos Gonzalez is looking to sign a short-term deal to re-establish his value.
The Cardinals have emerged as the favorites to land Marlins OF Marcell Ozuna.
The Cubs showing interest in trading for Royals LHP Danny Duffy.
OF JD Martinez is scheduled to come to the Winter Meetings to meet with at least one team.
The Cardinals are among the teams in on RHP Wade Davis.
The Rangers are talking to the D-Backs about starting pitching and RHP Zack Greinke could be in play.