The MLB offseason is heating up with potential trades and player movements, including Roki Sasaki’s highly anticipated entry from Japan and the Cubs‘ efforts to move Cody Bellinger. Sasaki’s agent recently refuted claims of a secret deal with the Dodgers, calling such insinuations insulting. Meanwhile, Blake Snell is gaining interest from multiple teams after a standout 2024 season. Bellinger is under scrutiny due to his performance drop and complex contract, raising concerns for teams considering a trade.
By the Numbers
- Roki Sasaki is expected to sign with an MLB team starting January 15, 2025, during the new international signing period.
- Cody Bellinger had an OPS+ of 111 in the 2024 season, down from 139 in 2023.
State of Play
- The Dodgers have the most international bonus money available for signing players.
- Blake Snell is reportedly meeting with multiple teams, including the Red Sox and Dodgers, after opting out of his previous deal.
- The Cubs face challenges trading Bellinger due to his recent performance and contract structure.
What’s Next
The landscape of player acquisitions may shift as teams prepare for the January signing period and explore trade opportunities before the regular season starts. Sasaki’s signing could reshape the pitching market, while Bellinger’s fate hangs in the balance as teams weigh the uncertainties of his contract.
Bottom Line
As the offseason progresses, clarity will emerge regarding Sasaki’s future and potential trades for Bellinger. Teams need to consider both financial implications and player performance trends to make strategic moves in this evolving market.
