The 2025-26 Major League Baseball offseason continues to evolve, with significant free agents and trade discussions shaping the landscape as the new year progresses. Rumors are swirling daily as teams strategize their rosters for the upcoming season.
The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly eyeing free agent Bo Bichette to enhance their infield. According to a recent report, the club has scheduled a meeting with him, indicating strong interest. An acquisition of Bichette could lead to the departure of catcher JT Realmuto and a trade involving third baseman Alec Bohm. The arbitration-eligible Bohm has recently agreed to a $10.2 million salary for 2026. With Trea Turner and Bryson Stott likely occupying shortstop and second base, Bichette would presumably take on the third base role, further solidifying the Phillies’ infield depth.
Bichette, who has been identified as the third-best free agent available this offseason by CBS Sports, boasts a solid track record, rebounding from a previous season to achieve a .290 batting average with 60 extra-base hits. His ability to capitalize on elevated pitches and a youthful profile, as he approaches 28 years of age, make him an appealing target for teams like the Phillies.
Meanwhile, the New York Yankees, while prioritizing re-signing outfielder Cody Bellinger, are also considering adding Bichette to their roster. Bellinger had an impressive season, but negotiations remain challenging. As a result, the Yankees are exploring Bichette as an option for shortstop or another infield position. Despite a season hindered by injuries, Bichette’s recent performance puts him among the league’s most sought-after free agents.
In their pursuit of pitching depth, the Yankees are engaged in trade discussions with the Washington Nationals regarding MacKenzie Gore and with the Milwaukee Brewers concerning Freddy Peralta. These moves come as the Yankees seek to bolster their rotation, especially with injury concerns affecting key pitchers such as Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt as they recover from elbow surgeries.
Furthermore, Kyle Tucker, the top-ranked free agent this offseason, is seeing increased interest, with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Mets emerging as frontrunners for his services. The Mets aim for a shorter contract with a high average annual value, while the Blue Jays are likely to pursue a longer deal. The Dodgers, known for their aggressive strategies, also appear to be serious contenders after a strong 2025 season.
In addition, the Colorado Rockies have made a move by signing right-hander Michael Lorenzen to a one-year contract worth $8 million, which includes a $9 million club option for 2027. Lorenzen, coming off a season with a 4.64 ERA, brings experience and reliability to their pitching staff.
As the offseason progresses, the anticipation builds around potential signings and trades, with several teams looking to make impactful additions to their rosters for the upcoming season.