With NPB talent continuing to make an impact across MLB, Hanshin Tigers slugger Teruaki Sato has surfaced as an intriguing option. The Japanese power hitter could become a primary target for New York if the team ultimately parts ways with McMahon.

Coming off a dominant season in Japan, Sato boasts the offensive profile to replace McMahon at the hot corner, if the Yankees cut ties in a bid to clear payroll flexibility ahead of the 2027 campaign.

With Austin Wells and other core pieces also surfacing in hot-stove rumors following the conclusion of the 2026 season, the Yankees’ front office is already actively retooling for next year.

Sato’s potential roster fit at third base for the Yankees

Sato is a power-hitting left-handed slugger capable of generating elite exit velocities topping 117 mph. His pull-side power profiles as an ideal fit for Yankee Stadium’s short porch in right field.

The Yankees enter the offseason with ongoing questions across the infield corners. While Sato primarily plays third base and right field, his ability to shift to first base offers key defensive versatility for a club seeking flexibility.

Unlike older free-agent options on the market, Sato is entering his age-27 season. Coming off a 40-home run, MVP-caliber campaign in Japan, he would arrive in Major League Baseball right in his prime as a long-term, middle-of-the-order run producer.

Potential suitors emerging alongside the Yankees

According to MLB insiders, the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as the primary suitors leading the sweepstakes for Sato’s signature.

His elite left-handed power, exit velocities exceeding 117 mph, and defensive flexibility across third base, first base, and the corner outfield make him a premier target for heavyweights seeking a prime-age, middle-of-the-order cornerstone.

Key takeaways

• Hanshin Tigers slugger Teruaki Sato has surfaced as a potential third-base target for the Yankees.
• Sato hit 40 home runs with exit velocities exceeding 117 mph during his MVP-caliber NPB season.
• The Yankees, Dodgers, Mets, and Phillies lead the free-agency sweepstakes for Sato’s signature.

According to The New York Post’s Joel Sherman, the Yankees “greatly like” Edwards and could target him as a prime acquisition this offseason, particularly after second base proved to be a glaring defensive vulnerability throughout 2026.

Edwards stood out as one of the few bright spots on a struggling Marlins squad last season, and his skill set presents an intriguing option for a Yankees club looking to retool its infield dynamic.

With multiple roster dominoes potentially falling this winter—including the potential departure of Ryan McMahon—Yankees fans are eagerly debating what an Edwards trade would mean for the team’s direction, though much remains to be seen as the offseason unfolds.

Edwards’ potential impact in the Yankees

Edwards delivered a productive 2026 campaign in Miami, batting .280 with a .360 on-base percentage, 21 stolen bases, and a low 13.9% strikeout rate over 142 games. Adding his elite contact ability and speed ahead of power hitters like Aaron Judge would give the Yankees a dynamic, high-traffic table setter on the basepaths.

Beyond his offensive profile, Edwards brings valuable middle-infield versatility and long-term club control. Having logged 136 starts at second base in 2026, he provides New York with proven defense and flexibility across the keystone. With Miami open to exploring trade offers for controllable assets, target-driven speed and contact make Edwards an ideal fit for the Yankees’ offseason goals.

Currently, the Yankees already boast depth at second base with Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Jose Caballero. However, adding Edwards to the roster would provide another reliable weapon down the stretch, addressing a positional depth issue that proved to be one of New York’s primary vulnerabilities during the 2026 MLB season.

Key takeaways

• New York Post report links Miami Marlins infielder Xavier Edwards to the Yankees.
• Edwards batted .280 with 21 stolen bases across 142 games in 2026.
• Edwards logged 136 starts at second base for Miami last season.

Chief among Los Angeles’ postseason disappointments has been Shohei Ohtani. Despite his October struggles, manager Dave Roberts stood by his superstar, inserting him back into the lineup for Game 3. However, Ohtani’s production continues to fall well short of expectations, and the Dodgers’ offense is feeling the strain.

Meanwhile, the Brewers have ridden a dominant starting rotation since Game 2, with Milwaukee’s pitching staff putting together a historic postseason run not seen in Major League Baseball in decades.

What happens if the Dodgers win Game 4 against the Brewers?

If the Dodgers beat the Brewers in Game 4, they will keep their season alive and force a Game 5 in the NLCS. That would mark a massive turning point for Los Angeles as they attempt to climb out of a 3-0 series deficit.

For the Brewers, a loss would mark a temporary bump in the road after an otherwise dominant NLCS run, one driven by complete synergy between their offense and defense throughout the postseason.

What happens if the Dodgers and Brewers tie?

If the Dodgers and Brewers are tied after nine innings, they will play standard extra innings until a winner is decided. Postseason rules do not use the regular-season automatic runner on second base, so play continues under traditional baseball rules—half-inning by half-inning—until one team holds a lead at the end of a complete inning or the home team delivers a walk-off victory.

What happens if the Dodgers lose to the Brewers?

If the Dodgers lose to the Brewers, they will be eliminated from the postseason, officially ending their World Series defense. For Milwaukee, a win would punch their ticket to the Fall Classic, capping an outstanding year-long campaign with a pennant.

The Brewers would then await the winner of the ALCS between the Cleveland Guardians and Tampa Bay Rays, a highly anticipated matchup featuring two teams operating at a high level.

Key takeaways

• A victory in Game 4 would force a Game 5 for the Dodgers.
• A loss in Game 4 would eliminate the Dodgers from the postseason.
• The Brewers’ pitching staff has put together a strong performance in the NLCS.

Pat Murphy has led his team to an excellent campaign, both during the regular season and in the postseason. The goal of eliminating the defending champions is within reach, although anything can still happen.

For Dave Roberts, the Dodgers‘ chances of achieving a three-peat are dwindling, and another setback could put their title defense in serious jeopardy. Who will ultimately come out on top in this intriguing series?

What happens if Dodgers win vs Brewers?

If the Dodgers manage to defeat the Brewers, they will secure their first win of the series. Milwaukee would then hold a 2-1 lead, meaning Game 4 would not yet be decisive.

Game 4 will also take place at Dodger Stadium on Thursday, October 15. First pitch is scheduled for 9 PM ET.

What happens if the Dodgers and Brewers tie?

If Game 3 of the NLCS is tied after 9 innings, the Dodgers and Brewers will play standard extra innings until a winner is decided. Postseason rules do not use the regular-season automatic runner on second base, so play continues with normal baseball rules—half-inning by half-inning—until one team holds a lead at the end of a complete inning or the home team scores a walk-off run.

What happens if the Dodgers lose to the Brewers?

Another Dodgers loss would be the worst-case scenario. The Brewers would take a 3-0 lead in the series, and since the NLCS is a best-of-seven series, one more win would complete the sweep of Los Angeles and secure Milwaukee’s spot in the World Series.

Key takeaways

• Los Angeles Dodgers host Game 3 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium.
• Milwaukee Brewers hold a 2-1 lead if the Dodgers win, with Game 4 scheduled next.
• Milwaukee Brewers would take a 3-0 series lead if they defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers.

A report from The New York Post‘s Joel Sherman indicates that third baseman Ryan McMahon could be among those on the move. “The Yankees will try hard to find a way to redirect McMahon’s money elsewhere as they look to improve the roster for 2027,” Sherman reported.

Sherman noted that moving McMahon is primarily a financial decision rather than a reflection of his play, as the veteran remains a valuable asset at third base. Still, after another underwhelming campaign, the Bronx Bombers must weigh every available option to clear payroll flexibility and reshape their roster.

Meanwhile, additional reports suggest the Yankees could turn their attention toward outfield help, potentially targeting Seattle Mariners star Randy Arozarena. Offloading McMahon’s contract would give New York the financial room needed to pursue Arozarena and other high-profile targets as they aim to bounce back in 2027.

Losing McMahon could leave the Yankees with a major infield void

Ever since acquiring McMahon from the Colorado Rockies, the Yankees relied on him to anchor third base. Moving on from the veteran leaves a massive defensive hole at the hot corner, with no clear internal prospects ready to take over.

McMahon’s offense cratered after leaving Denver for the Bronx, as he slumped to a .216 batting average with negligible WAR production across the 2026 season. Trading or releasing him would represent a clear cut-your-losses move, allowing New York to wipe his remaining $16 million salary for 2027 off the books.

If the Yankees part ways with McMahon alongside free-agent decisions surrounding Jazz Chisholm Jr., general manager Brian Cashman faces an immediate offseason burden: securing external trade targets or free agents to fill multiple spots in the starting lineup.

Key takeaways

• Ryan McMahon may be moved by the Yankees to clear payroll for 2027.
• Clearing McMahon’s salary would help New York pursue Seattle outfielder Randy Arozarena.
• Offloading McMahon leaves a $16 million salary gap and an unfilled third-base position.

Roberts made it clear that Ohtani will be in the lineup for Game 3: “In this moment, we’re listening to Shohei and we’re supporting the crap out of him, and that’s it. He could go out there and throw up four hits or no hits, and it doesn’t change our process and believing in him,” Roberts told reporters.

Ohtani’s cold spell extends back into the regular season, as he hasn’t hit a home run since August 18. Over his last 107 plate appearances overall, the slugger is batting just .156/.283/.200.

After Milwaukee’s rotation delivered a dominant performance in Game 2, Ohtani now faces a pivotal opportunity in Game 3 to jumpstart the Dodgers‘ offense and show why he remains the cornerstone of L.A.’s pennant chase.

Ohtani’s post-IL struggles

Despite a brief stint on the injured list intended to restore his lower-body power, Shohei Ohtani’s offensive production has plummeted since his late-September activation. Across six postseason games against the Braves and Brewers, he is batting just .150 (3-for-20) with no home runs, no RBIs, and zero extra-base hits.

Scouts and team personnel note that his knee injury has compromised his ability to drive off his back leg. The resulting mechanical adjustments and subtle swing delay have given opposing pitchers a clear blueprint to exploit him inside the strike zone.

With Los Angeles heading home to Dodger Stadium for Game 3, the Dodgers will need their superstar to rediscover his stroke—and quick—if they hope to take control of the series in front of a friendly crowd.

Key takeaways

• Dave Roberts confirmed Shohei Ohtani will remain in the Dodgers’ Game 3 lineup.
• Ohtani is batting just .156/.283/.200 over his last 107 overall plate appearances.
• A knee injury has compromised Ohtani’s ability to drive off his back leg.

And in the City That Never Sleeps, the two organizations are wide awake, daydreaming of the day they will go all the way again. That’s a road that could very well lead them to hand Skubal the piggy-bank-shattering contract he’s after, which he’ll surely get before the 2027 MLB campaign.

According to a report, if it comes down to a three-horse race between the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets—and it very well could—the latter may have the upper hand. The Orange and Blue are the most desperate of the bunch, which is saying a lot, and that could make David Stearns and Steve Cohen sign on the dotted line for a contract that can make the hairs on Skubal’s right arm stand up.

“The Skubal sweepstakes could come down to which of the Mets, Dodgers or Yankees would be most willing to take the risk. And of those three clubs, the Mets may have the clearest need for a No. 1 starter this winter,” Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report stated.

Skubal’s contract projections

“The average projected contract was eight years and $355 million, which is a $44.6 million average annual value (AAV),” Kiley McDaniel of ESPN reported on the situation as the MLB landscape gears up for a roller-coaster of an offseason, with Skubal’s future sitting in the front row.

The Mets already have the highest payroll in all of MLB and could be looking to add yet another ginormous contract to the mix. To say they will be in a World Series-or-bust year would be an understatement.

However, considering they just missed the playoffs and seem fine with making no drastic changes to their brass, we may actually be wrong to assume the organization is placing such expectations on itself. Maybe they’re only saying that publicly without holding themselves to the same standard behind closed doors.

NY Mets could make — another — splash

A lot can be said about the Mets’ deficiencies and shortcomings, but there is no doubt about their willingness to spend, especially when they’re competing against the Yankees and Dodgers in a bidding war. In the winter of 2026-27, fans across MLB may see another historic spending battle between these three teams for the best pitcher available: Tarik Skubal.

Key takeaways

• The New York Mets may have the clearest need for a starting pitcher among interested suitors.
• Tarik Skubal is projected to receive an eight-year, $355 million contract in free agency.
• The New York Mets maintain the highest payroll across all of Major League Baseball.

Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports that the Yankees and Phillies are among the top suitors expected to pursue Arozarena this winter. With the All-Star outfielder set to command a lucrative contract on the open market, Seattle may be unwilling to match the high price tag required to re-sign him.

Along with New York and Philadelphia, Divish noted that the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, and Chicago Cubs are also monitoring the market and could make a run at the Mariners star.

As the Phillies reportedly prepare to finalize Don Mattingly’s managerial contract for the upcoming seasons, anticipation is building over where Arozarena will land. Meanwhile, the Yankees may face a roster and organizational shakeup, with fans voicing frustration over the future of manager Aaron Boone and general manager Brian Cashman heading into the 2027 MLB campaign.

Arozarena’s potential impact for prospective suitors

Despite a disappointing overall season for the Mariners, Arozarena stood out as a premier offensive anchor. He paced the American League with a career-high 113 runs scored, pairing that mark with 161 hits, 26 home runs, and an impressive .281/.381/.484 slash line (.865 OPS).

Should he land in New York, Boston, Chicago, or Philadelphia, Arozarena would immediately elevate any lineup as a dynamic offensive weapon. However, potential suitors must weigh his elite bat against his defensive limitations, as advanced metrics graded him as a below-average to replacement-level defender in left field.

If any of the interested clubs decide to pull the trigger, MLB insiders project Arozarena could land a three-year deal with an average annual value (AAV) between $18 million and $22 million.

Key takeaways

• Randy Arozarena is expected to be pursued by the Yankees and Phillies in free agency.
• Boston, the New York Mets, and Chicago are also monitoring Arozarena’s free agency market.
• MLB insiders project Arozarena could command a three-year contract worth $18 million to $22 million annually.

Don Mattingly is set to be named the Phillies’ full-time manager for next season, as mentioned by MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki. The report aligns with earlier coverage from The Athletic‘s Charlotte Varnes and Matt Gelb regarding Philadelphia’s dugout leadership moving forward.

Although Philadelphia ultimately fell short in October, Mattingly was instrumental in turning the regular season around to secure a postseason berth.

Following their early playoff elimination, Mattingly declined to speculate on his future, but the front office has reportedly made up its mind regarding his continuity at the helm.

Why did the Phillies stick with Mattingly?

Initial reports suggested several candidates were in the mix for the job, including former Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora. However, Cora’s decision to take another path altered the landscape not only for Philadelphia, but for several other interested clubs.

Ultimately, Mattingly’s regular-season performance gave the front office plenty of reason for confidence. His .590 winning percentage with the Phillies eclipsed his previous career-best mark as a skipper (.580 with the 2014 Los Angeles Dodgers).

Mattingly also posted an elite 73.3% success rate on official replay challenges, leading his staff in crucial overturns. That operational precision helped propel Philadelphia into a Wild Card spot, though their run ended with a 2-1 series loss to the Atlanta Braves.

Mattingly’s road ahead

Pending formal confirmation from the club, several major challenges await Mattingly next season. Chief among them will be evolving from a steady hand over a 162-game marathon into a sharp, high-stakes tactical decision-maker in short playoff series.

Mattingly will also need to balance workload management and rest to keep veteran stars fresh while keeping the offense consistent, specifically avoiding the extended lineup slumps that plagued the team during critical stretches.

Developing roster depth and providing young talent with meaningful high-leverage at-bats will be vital to keeping Philadelphia’s championship window open. Establishing clear tactical guidelines, a distinct team identity, and daily accountability will be essential to setting the standard across the clubhouse.

Key takeaways

• Don Mattingly is set to be named full-time manager for the Philadelphia Phillies.
• Mattingly recorded a .590 winning percentage and a 73.3% replay challenge success rate.
• Philadelphia’s season ended following a 2-1 series loss to the Atlanta Braves.

“I define myself as a competitor. I like this kind of games. I always say in the past that I enjoy this. As a Dominican pitcher, I grew up watching the games in New York and that’s the game you see,” Peralta said during his press conference, via Ryan Bass of MLB TV.

“I get used to that because I grew up watching it. I feel like I have that in me, in myself. And that’s the way that I feel when I am on the mound in this kind of games.“

The series between the Rays and the Guardians is now tied at one game apiece, and Game 3 will shift the balance in favor of one of the two teams. One thing is certain: Tampa Bay knows it has a player in Peralta who is ready to keep battling.

Peralta’s outstanding performance

Freddy Peralta delivered an absolute gem in Game 2 of the ALCS, leading the Tampa Bay Rays to a crucial 3–1 victory. The right-hander was dominant on the mound, tossing 6 scoreless innings while allowing just 4 hits and 2 walks.

Peralta racked up 6 strikeouts, topping out at 99.4 mph on his fastball and capping off his stellar performance by striking out Petey Halpin on a full-count changeup to close out his night.

An unexpected visitor at Tropicana Field

The night in Tampa had a special twist in the stands. Steve Cohen, a familiar face to Freddy Peralta from his time with the New York Mets, attended the game, catching the pitcher completely by surprise.

“Oh, I had no idea. You know, I don’t even know what to say because I don’t know if he came just to watch the game or maybe me too. What I can say is that we have a good relationship. When he traded for me, he texted me, we spoke,” Peralta said, via Foul Territory on X.

“Also, when we were in Spring Training, we had a really good communication. He spoke with me when I got traded to the Rays. I think that he’s awesome and I’m happy that he was here, not watching me, but watching the Rays.”

Key takeaways

• Tampa Bay Rays won 3–1 against Cleveland Guardians to tie the ALCS series.
• Freddy Peralta pitched 6 scoreless innings with 4 hits allowed for Tampa Bay Rays.
• Pitcher Freddy Peralta struck out 6 batters, reaching 99.4 mph on his fastball.

Only a handful of players are guaranteed to keep their spots in the lineup next season, and decisions must be made about many of them, including catcher Austin Wells, who will become arbitration-eligible in the offseason.

There may not be much of a debate to be had about Wells’ future in The Bronx, though. At least that’s what reports coming out of Yankee Stadium suggest.

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees are planning to keep Wells at the starting catcher position. Whether they invest in a backup catcher who could push Wells for the starting job at some point during the 2027 MLB season is another discussion.

Austin Wells’ stats in 2026

Coming off a strong 2025 MLB season, Wells didn’t have the 2026 campaign many in The Bronx had hoped for. As a result, the arbitration-eligible catcher presents the Bronx Bombers’ front office with a question about which direction to take heading into the offseason.

Through 122 appearances in 2026, Wells recorded 334 at-bats, putting up 39 runs, 62 hits, 32 RBIs (all career lows), and 14 home runs. Moreover, Wells’ .186 batting average and .624 OPS were also the worst marks of his professional career.

Contract projection

According to SNY, Wells is projected to earn a $2.6 million contract if he reaches arbitration. Whether he actually reaches that stage or the Yankees avoid it, only time will tell.

Key takeaways

• New York Yankees planning to keep Austin Wells as starting catcher for 2027 season.
• Austin Wells recorded career-low 39 runs, 62 hits, and 32 RBIs.
• New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells projected to earn $2.6 million contract in arbitration.