According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Royals agreed to a Major League deal with outfielder Starling Marte, who played for the Mets for the last four seasons.

An All-Star in 2016 and 2022, Marte has put together a stellar MLB career. Now, at 37 years old, he will join forces with elite shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. with the hopes of elevating the Royals.

Does Marte have something left in the tank?

His role has shifted from a premier outfielder to more of a part-time yet valuable player. He is also a reliable designated-hitter, and is seen as a veteran leader in the locker room.

In 2025, he batted .270 with nine home runs, 34 RBIs, and a .745 OPS with the Mets, where he was mostly a DH. The fact is Marte is no longer an All-Star caliber player, but he is a very solid option for a team like the Royals.

He is a role player, Bobby Witt Jr. is the absolute star

The Royals shouldn’t expect Marte to go ballistic. That’s what Bobby Witt Jr. is there for. The Royals are seen as a contender to witn the 2026 AL Central. The team also has a solid rotation, and with Marte, they’re adding depth in their batting, which is what they need.

Dominican journalist Yancen Pujols tweeted that the Royals and Marte “have been talking” about a potential major league deal, later adding that negotiations were “advancing.” Jon Heyman of the New York Post confirmed the discussions, though nothing is finalized yet.

Marte, 37, remains a valuable offensive contributor despite age-related declines in speed. Last season, he appeared in 98 games and posted a .270/.335/.410 slash line, mainly excelling against left-handed pitching.

What Marte brings to Kansas City

Though Marte has two Gold Gloves, he likely won’t play a full-time defensive role if he joins the Royals. Kauffman Stadium’s spacious outfield and Marte’s 28th percentile sprint speed suggest his primary value would come as a designated hitter or pinch-hitter.

His presence could complement Kansas City captain Salvador Perez and provide guidance for younger position players such as Vinnie Pasquantino, Jac Caglianone, and Carter Jensen.

Potential role and impact

If the deal is completed, Marte would add depth to the Royals’ lineup and provide a veteran presence in critical situations. While the team doesn’t have a permanent designated hitter, Marte could rotate in alongside other options, contributing both offensively and as a leader for the clubhouse.

Philadelphia lost several key contributors, including Ranger Suarez, Harrison Bader, and Nick Castellanos, though they added Adolis Garcia, a two-time All-Star. Still, a right-handed-hitting outfielder remained on the Phillies’ radar as a potential upgrade for their lineup.

Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer identified Randal Grichuk of the Kansas City Royals as a “best fit” for Philadelphia. “He had a rough one in 2025, with his OPS falling 201 points from where it had been in 2024. Yet his exit velocity and hard-hit rate actually went up, and he still had his longstanding knack for pulling the ball in the air. Those strengths would play nicely at Citizens Bank Park, where Grichuk would supplant Johan Rojas as the primary platoon partner for Brandon Marsh and Justin Crawford,” Rymer wrote.

Could Grichuk provide the Phillies with veteran outfield depth?

Though 34 and coming off a challenging season, Grichuk remains capable of contributing. In 2024, he slashed .291/.348/.528 with 12 home runs and 46 RBIs, showing that his ability to hit for power and drive the ball remains intact. Philadelphia could benefit from his experience and right-handed bat in a platoon setup.

Will the move help the Phillies contend in 2026?

Adding Grichuk would provide the Phillies with flexibility and additional firepower in their lineup, particularly at Citizens Bank Park. His presence could complement existing stars and stabilize the outfield rotation as the team looks to improve on last year’s postseason run.

The report was shared by Hector Gomez on X (@hgomez27): “The Kansas City Royals sign catcher Elias Diaz to minor league deal, with spring training invite.” The signing generated notable attention, as the veteran free agent has appeared in 205 games over the past two seasons.

It’s not considered a major loss for Machado and the Padres, who have a strong roster capable of covering the catcher position. However, the Royals appear to be prioritizing experience. Diaz brings 11 years of MLB service time, primarily serving as a backup to established starters.

Elias Diaz represents a low-cost veteran addition for the Royals

More than a decade in Major League Baseball is no small feat. Diaz spent his first five seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, and in 2017 he received his first extended opportunity to showcase his potential, appearing in 64 games behind the plate.

He then spent four and a half seasons with the Colorado Rockies, where he became an important part of the club’s defensive work at home plate. While he wasn’t always the full-time starter, he logged multiple 100-plus game seasons for Colorado before departing in 2024 to join Machado and the San Diego Padres.

In 2025, Diaz endured one of his least productive seasons, posting a .204 batting average with 52 hits and 29 RBIs in what was a difficult campaign overall. He earned $3.5 million in salary, which could serve as a reference point for any potential deal to return to the majors. According to Spotrac, his current market value is projected at approximately $2.4 million.

The departures of Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil via trade, along with Starling Marte entering free agency, left the Mets searching for additional stability across the outfield. Luis Robert Jr. is expected to handle center field duties, while internal competition remains for the remaining corner spots.

The Mets officially announced the addition Thursday on X, posting: “We have signed outfielder MJ Melendez to a one-year contract. Welcome to Queens, MJ!” Melendez’s deal will pay him $1.5 million in the majors and $425,000 in the minors.

Melendez brings versatility and upside

The 27-year-old left-handed hitter debuted with the Kansas City Royals in 2022 as both a catcher and corner outfielder before transitioning exclusively to the outfield in 2024. He can play both corner positions, giving the Mets flexibility as they evaluate their defensive alignment.

Melendez owns a .215 career batting average with 52 home runs, 163 RBIs, and a .685 OPS across four MLB seasons. Although he struggled in limited MLB action last year, he performed well at Triple-A Omaha, hitting .261 with 20 home runs, 64 RBIs, 20 stolen bases, and an .813 OPS in 107 games.

Depth move as Mets reshape outfield

Tyrone Taylor projects as a strong defensive option, while top prospect Carson Benge will have an opportunity to compete for playing time despite limited Triple-A experience. Adding Melendez gives the Mets another experienced option as they prepare for a competitive season.

For Melendez, the move represents a fresh start in New York — and for the Mets, it adds another layer of depth as they structure the outfield around Soto’s new role.

According to The Athletic‘s Ken Rosenthal, the Phillies are eyeing former Kansas City Royals outfielder Randal Grichuk for the next season. “The Phillies could use a right-handed bat to platoon in left field with Brandon Marsh, and Randal Grichuk is among those in whom they are showing interest,” Rosenthal reported.

The Phillies are keen on bolstering their roster, and adding Grichuk could strengthen one of the weaker parts of their lineup. Grichuk would likely complement manager Rob Thomson’s game plan as the team aims for a robust competition next season and recently announced a new addition to the roster that could help to bring Bo Bichette.

By potentially adding Grichuk, the Phillies continue their offseason strategy to fortify their squad. With aspirations of clinching a World Series title, such moves are pivotal steps toward achieving that ultimate goal.

Grichuk’s career numbers

Grichuk, who was traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks to the Royals last season, is set to enter his 13th MLB season in 2026. Throughout his career, he’s put up impressive numbers with various teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, Colorado Rockies, Los Angeles Angels, Diamondbacks, and the Royals.

Here are his career statistics:

• Games (G): 1,361
• Batting Average (AVG): .251
• Home Runs (HR): 212
• Runs Batted In (RBI): 629
• Hits: 1,126
• OPS: .763
• WAR: 14.0

Phillies’ offseason additions to the major league roster

The Phillies have made waves this offseason with notable additions, including the re-signing of Kyle Schwarber. Here is a rundown of the significant acquisitions so far:

• Kyle Schwarber, DH/LF: 5 years, $150M
• Brad Keller, SP/RP: 2 years, $22M
• Adolis Garcia, RF: 1 year, $10M
• Zach Pop, RP: 1 year

With Gerrit Cole, Clarke Schmidt, and Carlos Rodon out to start the 2026 MLB season, Max Fried is being left out to dry by the Yankees’ front office. That could all change as there is still time for New York to shakeup its roster and bullpen. Still, most signs suggest the Bronx Bombers are focusing on other positions at the moment.

Obviously, re-signing Cody Bellinger holds priority, with rumors hinting the Yankees have developed a strategy if he doesn’t re-sign. Still, surrounding Fried with another star pitcher could prove to be just as paramount.

On that note, a report indicates the Yankees could be after former Kansas City Royals pitcher Michael Lorenzen, looking for him to fill the position before Cole, Schmidt, and Rodon return to the mound at Yankee Stadium. Lorenzen is currently unsigned for the 2026 MLB campaign.

Lorenzen could help out Yankees

“The New York Yankees are in the position of needing a bridge starter, essentially, until Gerrit Cole, Clarke Schmidt and Carlos Rodon can recover from injuries. Lorenzen isn’t the sexiest option, but he has the pedigree to warrant consideration,” as stated by FanSided’s Christopher Kline.

“Better yet: He’s an experienced reliever and can transition to the bullpen as needed. New York can figure out which role suits him best at this stage.”

Lorenzen’s numbers in 2025

What started off smoothly turned out to be a rocky year as Lorenzen struggled to end the season. As a result, the 33-year-old pitcher—named to the All-Star Game in 2023—posted a 7-11 record. Moreover, he registered a 4.64 ERA, 127 strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.33 over 141 innings pitched.

Cole’s uncertain production in 2026

The Yankees are set to face much uncertainty by the time Opening Day 2026 comes around in the spring. Cole is recovering from Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.

According to a report from CBS News back in October 2024, about 35% of active MLB pitchers had undergone the procedure—in which a partially or fully torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) on the medial side of the elbow is replaced with a tendon.

Regardless, it’s still a risky surgery that casts doubt on a pitcher’s production in the seasons following the medical intervention. With that in mind, it might be wise for New York to acquire pitching help in case Cole—35—regresses next season.

The Phillies sent reliever Matt Strahm to Kansas City in exchange for Jonathan Bowlan. The only reason here is to create financial openings for the team. Strahm had a $7.5 million paycheck in 2026. As for Bowlan, he will only make $820,000 this upcoming season and has a contract through 2032 according to Luke Arcaini of Crossing Board.

The Phillies might have to make room as they have expressed their wish to retain catcher JT Realmuto and that is a heavy contract to give. It could also mean that the Phillies are looking for another big move.

The Royals are getting a pitcher seeking redemption

Strahm is a good pitcher. He is a good lefty that can absolutely ball. However, he is seeking redemption because of how his Phillies’ career ended. The last time we saw Strahm was in the seventh inning of Game 1 of the NLDS against the Dodgers. He gave up a three-run home run to Teoscar Hernandez that sealed the win for the Dodgers. Strahm said that the team didn’t do enough field practice and that sparked a back and forth with Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowksi.

Hence, this change of pace and scenery could help Strahm regain his best form. This is a long-awaited reunion, as Strahm spent his first two seasons with the Royals. The All-Star will enter this season at 34 years old, and he is still productive despite what the last inning pitched suggests.

What will Bowlan provide to the Phillies?

Bowlan will enter his fourth year in the MLB and the first out of Kansas City. However, he is not Strahm. Bowlan’s career record is 1-4. He had 46 strikeouts last season and allowed 37 hits and 21 runs.

Bowlan also allowed six home runs in 34 games. The Phillies will take Bowlan and try to make him a better pitcher. But all in all, the Phillies real goal is to make financial room for more moves. If he produces, all the better, but if not, then at least he is a cheap pitcher.

After opting out of the remaining two seasons of his three-year, $120 million contract, Bregman has filled the Red Sox with uncertainty. Bregman turned down a lot of money—though it’s not like his net worth needs any more. Now, no one in Beantown knows for certain where the three-time All-Star stands about his future, and that is driving the front office crazy. However, a new dilemma has surfaced in Boston.

According to reports, the Kansas City Royals are after 2024 All-Star outfielder Jarren Duran, and they are making their interest known. Boston has shown little desire to move on from the 29-year-old, though for the right price anybody can be moved in MLB.

“Even after signing free agent Lane Thomas and trading for Isaac Collins, the Kansas City Royals are open to adding another outfielder – most notably Jarren Duran, if the Boston Red Sox lower their asking price,” The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal stated.

What acquiring Duran could cost

“The Royals are under the impression Duran would cost them left-hander Cole Ragans, though the Red Sox view the initial talks as more informal and exploratory, according to people briefed on the conversations,” Rosenthal added.

A player-for-player deal could make sense for both sides, though mostly for the Red Sox. The Royals, on the other hand, believe that price is a bit too steep for their liking.

Contract situations

Both Ragans and Duran are set to become unrestricted free agents in 2029, though their contract situations are a bit different. Ragans is entering the second-to-last year of his pre-arbitration three-year extension, valued at $13.25 million.

Meanwhile, Duran avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $7.7 million deal for the 2026 season. Still, he will remain under team control through the 2029 MLB campaign.

If Kansas City is honest about its interest in the 29-year-old outfielder, then it could play the waiting game. If negotiations on a pre-arbitration deal turn cold between Duran and the Red Sox, the Royals could sweep in at some stage of the 2026 MLB season to acquire the former All-Star.

But in Atlanta’s Tuesday night matchup against the Kansas City Royals, the momentum came to a halt. Acuña exited the game in the sixth inning after experiencing discomfort, and the postgame atmosphere turned somber.

Later, Acuña addressed reporters in an emotional interview, conducted through a translator. Though he tried to remain composed, his body language and voice told the story of frustration and fear all too familiar to Braves fans.

Tightness in right Achilles sends Acuña to injured list

The team later confirmed that Acuña is dealing with tightness in his right Achilles tendon. This issue comes just over a year after he tore his left ACL in May 2024—a cruel echo of his 2021 right ACL tear. The Braves have since placed him on the 10-day injured list.

According to Acuña, the issue surfaced the day before the game, but he insisted on playing despite the warning signs. “Yeah, I think it definitely got worse today,” Acuña admitted. “I told them yesterday and everyone said hey, take the day if you want, you can have the day off. I said no, I’ve just missed so much time already through with injuries, I don’t want to miss any more time.”

Acuña’s emotional message

When asked if he feared structural damage, Acuña didn’t hold back: “Yeah, of course. It’s an injury, I’m worried. It’s just pain, but I feel it a lot when I try to put pressure on it,” he explained, showing clear concern over the seriousness of the flare-up.

For now, the Braves are taking a cautious approach. Acuña indicated that medical evaluations will continue on Wednesday to determine the next steps.

Acuña Jr. avoids major injury

MLB reporter Mark Bowman shared an update via “X” regarding Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury status: “Acuña’s discomfort is in the upper Achilles/lower right calf region. Preliminary tests provided no reason to believe he has a significant injury. Today’s MRI will verify if this is true. If results match current expectations, there’s a chance Acuña could play again in 2–3 weeks.” This message offers a cautiously optimistic outlook for the Braves, who are hopeful the MRI will confirm that no major setback has occurred

Amid widespread trade rumors, both the New York Yankees and the New York Mets have been linked with interest in acquiring a World Series veteran. Meanwhile, the Pirates have become a talking point with their recent trade involving the Royals.

MLB insider Robert Murray reports that the Pirates have traded infielder Adam Frazier to the Royals in exchange for Cam Devanney, a standout prospect from the minors this year. “The Kansas City Royals are acquiring infielder Adam Frazier from the Pittsburgh Pirates, according to sources familiar with the deal. Cam Devanney is heading to the Pirates,” Murray announced on X.

This unexpected trade is generating significant buzz on social media, as Pirates fans express excitement over Devanney joining their roster. The player is enjoying an outstanding statistical season with the Omaha Storm Chasers, leading fans to believe the Pirates have secured a valuable asset.

Cam Devanney’s impactful season with the Omaha Storm Chasers

As the Royals reportedly trade Cam Devanney, fans are left questioning the rationale behind moving such a high-performing player. Devanney recorded impressive stats in the MiLB during the 2025 season, making his performance with the Omaha Storm Chasers one of the league’s standout displays, comparable to top prospect George Lombard Jr.’s contributions to the Syracuse Somerset.

Drafted in 2019, Devanney has spent his minor league career across four different teams, but it’s his impressive numbers with Omaha this year that have caught the most attention, cementing his key role in their success. Over 69 games, he has totaled 246 at-bats, scored 41 runs, and amassed 67 hits.

In addition, Devanney has accumulated 139 total bases with 18 home runs, 55 RBIs, and 34 walks. Perhaps most notable is his .931 OPS, marking a career high that underscores his growth and potential in the minors.

Pirates part ways with a struggling asset

In contrast, the Pirates have opted to trade Frazier, whose performance has not met expectations relative to Devanney’s. Frazier’s stats include just two home runs, 22 runs scored, and 60 hits over 235 at-bats, falling short during his second stint with the team. This underwhelming output has prompted the Pirates to reconsider their lineup, hoping to bolster their roster with more productive players like Devanney.