For a few years now, the MLB has been talking how big the Winter Meetings of 2018 was going to be. Machado, Harper, Las Vegas, what could go wrong? Well it was a huge disappointment. The biggest happenings were a 3 team trade and a $50 million contract. Truthfully my favorite part now is watching the MLB Network for the interviews. I can’t get enough of the baseball stories. Maybe some sort of deadline during the winter would help force some action.
NEWS
The 2019 Winter Meetings will be held in San Diego, CA.
Today was the Rule 5 Draft and here were some of the more notable names: Orioles took SS Richie Martin (A’s #12 prospect), Marlins took RHP Riley Ferrell (Astros #17 prospect) and Blue Jays took RHP Elvis Luciano (Royals #23 prospect).
TRANSACTIONS
The Yankees have re-signed LHP J.A. Happ to a 2 year/$34 million contract with a vesting option for 2021.
The Mets have signed RHP Jeurys Familia to a 3 year/$30 million contract.
The Dodgers have signed RHP Joe Kelly to a 3 year/$25 million contract.
The Indians, Rays and Mariners have completed a 3 team trade. The Indians will receive 1B Carlos Santana, 1B/OF Jake Bauers and cash. The Rays will receive INF Yandy Diaz and minor league RHP Cole Sulser. The Mariners will receive DH Edwin Encarnacion, competitive balance pick (#77) and cash.
The Brewers acquired LHP Alex Claudio from the Rangers. The Rangers will receive a competitive balance pick (#39).
RUMORS
The Yankees remain in the mix for LHP Zach Britton.
The Rockies have at least given some internal consideration to pursuing Blue Jays 1B Justin Smoak.
The Angels primary target at the moment is C Wilson Ramos.
The Pirates have spoken to the D-Backs about SS Nick Ahmed.
The Nationals have shown reported interest in 2B Josh Harrison.
The Twins have interest in RHP Kelvin Herrera.