MLB rumors: News on free-agent contracts, trades and more
The MLB off-season is underway and the rumors of impending transactions are already circulating.
With Opening Day on April 3 still months away, much will happen before teams retake the field for the 2017 season.
The free-agent deals have begun with the Braves signing starting pitchers R.A. Dickey and Bartolo Colon, but notable free agents such as Yoenis Cespedes, Aroldis Chapman, Edwin Encarnacion and Kenley Jansen remain on the market.
Keep up to date on the latest MLB news and rumors below:
• The Reiter 50: Cespedes, Chapman lead list of MLB free agents
Friday
• The Phillies announced that they have acquired infielder/outfielder Howie Kendrick from the Dodgers in exchange for first baseman Darin Ruf and second baseman Darnell Sweeney.
• The Blue Jays have added a DH to their lineup with a three-year contract worth about $33 million to Kendrys Morales, according to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports. The Royals did not extend a qualifying offer to Morales and will not lose a draft pick as a result.
• The Braves have agreed to a $12.5 million deal with former Mets pitcher Bartolo Colon, Marc Carig of NewsDay reports. The Braves have also agreed to an $8 million deal with R.A. Dickey.
• The Blue Jays have agreed to a deal with Cuban infield prospect Lourdes Gurriel for $22 million, Joel Sherman of the New York Postreports. Gurriel is MLB's No. 6 international prospect.
• Toronto is focused on acquiring lefthanded hitters and improving its outfield, Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reports. The Jays are reportedly interested in Dexter Fowler and Josh Reddick.
• The Yankees are willing to pay half of the remaining $34 million on Brian McCann's contract after trading him, but would want to get multiple top prospects in return, Jeff Passan of Yahoo! Sports reports.
• The Brewers have agreed to a three-year contract extension with manager Craig Counsell through the 2020 season, the team announced.
• Free-agent catcher Jason Castro has received offers from at least three American League teams, Passan reports.
