Overview
- Angels GM Perry Minasian said Rodriguez is expected to be ready for spring after missing 2025, and he signaled pursuits for another starter plus upgrades in center field and at third base after freeing salary by moving Ward.
- The Orioles targeted immediate lineup punch by acquiring Ward, who hit 36 home runs last season, after injuries left Rodriguez an unreliable rotation piece since mid-2024.
- The Red Sox traded left-handers Chris Murphy and Brennan Bernardino, added pitchers David Sandlin, Shane Drohan and Tyler Uberstine to the 40-man roster, and designated Josh Winckowski for assignment ahead of the Dec. 10 Rule 5 Draft.
- Four players accepted $22.025 million qualifying offers to return on one-year deals: Brandon Woodruff (Brewers), Trent Grisham (Yankees), Shota Imanaga (Cubs) and Gleyber Torres (Tigers).
- Interest in top free agent Kyle Tucker includes AL East clubs such as the Blue Jays, Yankees and Orioles, and the Yankees have also held talks about a potential reunion with reliever Devin Williams, according to reports.