The latest episode of the MLB Trade Rumors Podcast is now live on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts! Make sure you subscribe as well! You can also use the player at this link to listen, if you don’t use Spotify or Apple for podcasts.
This week, host Darragh McDonald is joined by Anthony Franco of MLB Trade Rumors to discuss…
- The Phillies re-sign Aaron Nola (0:50)
- The Braves sign Reynaldo López (7:20)
- The Cardinals sign Lance Lynn (10:30)
- Interesting non-tenders, including Brandon Woodruff… (12:10)
- Spencer Turnbull… (14:10)
- ..and Rowdy Tellez (17:10)
Plus, we answer your questions, including…
- Why is the MLB offseason so slow to get going? The other leagues, most of your top free agents are off the board within a few days. It’s been three weeks since players filed for free agency and nothing. (19:55)
- Do you think the Dodgers do something major this year or will it be another disappointing offseason for the fans? (23:30)
- Do you think the Pirates sign Rhys Hoskins or settle for someone cheaper? (26:20)
Check out our past episodes!
- Top Trade Candidates, Bryce Harper at First Base and the Braves’ Raising Payroll – listen here
- Top 50 Free Agents Megapod (with Tim Dierkes, Steve Adams and Anthony Franco) – listen here
- Juan Soto Speculation, Melvin and Zaidi in SF, and Boston Hires Breslow – listen here
I’ve always wondered that about MLB free agency, why does it start so slow? My theory is that MLB wants the focus on awards week and doesn’t want that overshadowed by big free agent signings. Always thought it would make more sense to just postpone free agency starting until after Thanksgiving, but still allow teams and players to talk and negotiate. I think there would be a lot more movement that way, especially with the winter meetings following not too far after.
Good idea. Maybe shoot for a 12/1 start to free agency. Teams can negotiate with their free agents in November.
Cardinals took a very direct approach, signing two players at a position of need to reasonable one year deals, hoping one or both will be more like their career than last year’s numbers.
Aaron Nola liked where he was and accepted a solid offer but reportedly left money on the table.
Every other team is not content to fill their needs with overpriced damaged goods.
Every other free agent wants to get every last dollar possible like they’ll never put pen to paper again.
Gibson’s numbers last year were essentially the same as his career numbers. He’s a #4/#5 starter who eats innings. If Lynn bounces, he could be a solid #3. The Cardinals still have no ace or even a #2 pitcher. Still lots of work for Mozeliak to do.
Print – Perhaps you are focused more on 2 years ago when there was somewhat a sense of urgency because of the pending lockout.
Fact is, on this date last year only 6 free agents had signed contracts of more than $3M.
This year, 4 free agents have signed contracts above $3M. Not much of a difference.
In fact last year nobody had signed for more than $46M. This year we already have a $172M contract.
The catalyst for free agent signings has always been the Winter Meetings which always happens in December. It’s a lot easier to negotiate contracts when all teams and agents are together in the same location.
I always figured it was slow due to the holidays. There is usually a flurry of activity after the meetings then it slows for the holidays and picks up after new years most years.
Would love to see a separate ranking of all the jpb players.
The Pirates will sign someone cheaper
maybe Bob Hoskins
He could teach Henry Davis about ‘framing’
Nicely done!
Meh, guys play 6+ years to become free agents. I see no problem waiting until you thik you have the best deal. it doesn’t always work, but it’s not like they are unable to pay the mortgage. Feels like some folks are action junkies.
MLBTR needs to do an analysis of each team and list their potential needs and who they may look to deal.
Isn’t that part of “rumors”?
Very helpful of you to request dozens of hours of work for the staff. I imagine that much effort would be worth $30 per year.
Of course, no, that’s not a part of “rumors.”
Sorry… Hate to cut into the Bees or Beads time.
Yes, those 15-20 seconds each Mark P. chat are vital.
They used to do an evaluation of each team. Probably too much work for them now. He needs to be prepared for “what song are you playing now”? “Ketchup or Mustard”? “Turkey or ham”? And then someone slips in a “Bees or Beads”… These chats, pretty much the same thing every time.
Bro, not sure if you’re trolling, but there’s literally an offseason outlook series for the very purpose you just described…