MLB Rumors: What's the latest with Eduardo Rodriguez in his looming free agency?
Eduardo Rodriguez is expected to opt out of his deal with the Detroit Tigers. This isn't necessarily a surprise since he could earn more money in a loaded free-agent pitching market. Rodriguez was nearly traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers at the deadline, but made it clear he prefers to play on the east coast and be closer to family. Jon Heyman of the New York Post provided the latest update, suggesting "he loves Detroit, but Eduardo Rodriguez is expected to opt out with $49M and three years to go."
Rodriguez will earn more than that in free agency, wherever he lands. He's already been connected to pitching-needy teams like the St. Louis Cardinals. If anything were to sway teams away from E-Rod, it would be his injury history and flaky nature during his time in the Motor City. Rodriguez failing to accept a trade to the Dodgers could also weigh heavily on some opposing general managers, as there's always a possibility things go south and they'd prefer to pursue a deal sending E-Rod to a contending team.
As Motor City Bengals writer Tyler Kotila pointed out, Rodriguez still has time to change his mind, though it seems unlikely:
"There's still time for things to change, as the opt-out deadline is not yet known. It is slated each year to be five days after the World Series comes to a close. So, for now, the Tigers' left-hander can continue to think about his decision and what might be best for him moving forward," Kotilla wrote.
Rodriguez has one of the best pitch arsenals of any starter in baseball. He's worth whatever contract he gets, in the end.
MLB Rumors: Shohei Ohtani and the New York Mets connected again
The Shohei Ohtani-New York Mets connection is nothing new. Ohtani is expected to receive an enormous contract this winter, whether it's with the Los Angeles Angels or elsewhere. The Mets have the most money to play with thanks to owner Steve Cohen, so it's fair to expect the team in Queens to at least receive a meeting to pitch their case to Ohtani.
Ohtani will not pitch in the 2024 season. For most players, this would impact their overall value, but Ohtani can still thrive as a designated hitter. Ohtani was the best hitter in the American League this season and could be in line to win another MVP. When he is able to return as a starting pitcher, it only increases his worth.
On Tuesday, ESPN's Jeff Passan admitted that the Mets are expected to be "right in the middle of things" when Ohtani hits the market after the World Series. The Japanese superstar will take his time before deciding upon his next MLB home.
While Ohtani has stated a desire to contend -- which he hasn't done with the Los Angeles Angels -- the Mets finished last season outside of the playoff picture in the National League. This could hurt their chances as much as any team, regardless of the money they can throw Ohtani's way.
MLB Rumors: Boston Red Sox may finally have a Chaim Bloom replacement
Much has been made of the candidates the Boston Red Sox have turned down, or otherwise. Boston is a desirable baseball location, don't get me wrong, but any new president of baseball operations will have to deal with Fenway Sports Group and increasing demand in a competitive market. It's unclear exactly how much John Henry and Co. are willing to spend this coming offseason, or if they're willing to exceed the luxury tax in the years to come. This will limit their potential.
All that being said, the Red Sox reportedly have their man -- or at least a favorite -- in Craig Breslow. Alex Speier of the Boston Globe reported the news earlier on Tuesday.
"Multiple industry sources believe that Cubs assistant GM Craig Breslow is the clear frontrunner in the search to lead the Sox baseball operations department," Speier wrote. "The Sox informed candidates on Monday whether they're advancing to the second round of the process."
Breslow was reportedly the only candidate called in for a second interview. His current role is as assistant GM/vice president of pitching for the Chicago Cubs. Breslow spent several stints as a player with the Red Sox, which explains his connection with the organization. He pitched for the team in 2006 and returned for the 2012 campaign.
Replacing Chaim Bloom is no easy task, though Bloom did quite a bit to improve the Red Sox farm system. His MLB team's success -- or lack thereof the last few years -- played a role in his eventual dismissal.