Overview
- SoxFest Live returned to the Ramova Theatre in Bridgeport, where the team unveiled a 2026 promotional calendar headlined by a Bobby Jenks–A.J. Pierzynski World Series bobblehead and an Opening Day item featuring Munetaka Murakami.
- General manager Chris Getz framed the offseason as targeted, low-risk moves for upside, highlighting additions that include reliever Seranthony Domínguez, slugger Munetaka Murakami and left-hander Anthony Kay.
- Manager Will Venable said Domínguez, signed for two years at $20 million, is expected to finish many games without being formally named the closer, noting his recent postseason experience.
- Kay arrives from Japan after posting a 1.74 ERA with 130 strikeouts over 155 innings in 2025 for Yokohama, as the club evaluates how NPB success will translate to MLB roles.
- Players pointed to a 19-win rebound and stronger second-half play in 2025, with leaders emphasizing improved clubhouse culture, expanded research and health initiatives, and catcher Kyle Teel confirming he will play for Italy in March’s World Baseball Classic.