Things were all quiet Saturday for the Atlanta Braves and from the sound of things, it may remain that way until after the first of the year. However, there was still some things going on around the league as reaction poured in to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ big trade that landed Matt Kemp, Alex Wood and Yasiel Puig in Cincinnati with the Reds.
MLB News
Is signing Bryce Harper now the move the Dodgers have to make?
The first thing that came to mind once news of the Dodgers/Reds trade broke was that it paved the way to a potential deal between Los Angeles and free agent outfielder Bryce Harper. In theory, that move is in play but as ESPN.com’s Buster Olney points out, the deal granted the Dodgers some flexibility and they could go in a number of directions.
Dodgers still discussing Kluber trade
One direction they could go in is pursuing Cleveland right-hander Corey Kluber. MLB.com’s Jon Morosi reports that Los Angeles has maintained contact with the Indians in regards to Kluber and are willing to discuss outfield prospect Alex Verdugo in trade negotiations.
Grandal might be biggest upgrade for these teams
Yasmani Grandal came into the offseason as the biggest name catcher available but his market has been slow to develop. Still he can provide a significant upgrade for several teams and MLB.com’s Mike Petriello speculates on some landing spots.
Jays, Padres engaged in Stroman talks
Morosi also reports that the Toronto Blue Jays are engaged with the San Diego Padres in trade talks involving starter Marcus Stroman. Pitching prospects Michael Baez or Logan Allen could be involved in a potential return for Toronto.
Angels, Brewers, Rangers Reportedly Interested In Dallas Keuchel
The Angels, Brewers and Rangers along with the Phillies are teams with reported interest in free agent left-hander Dallas Keuchel.
Cubs Agree To Deal With Kendall Graveman
The Cubs reached a two-year agreement with right-hander Kendall Graveman who is still recovering from Tommy John surgery. Graveman’s new contract is worth $575K in 2019 with a $3 million club option for the 2020 season.
The Oakland A’s have re-signed right-hander Mike Fiers to a two-year deal worth $15 million. Oakland non-tendered Fiers last month rather than make him arbitration eligible. They save a bit of cash for this season with the deal while Fiers gets more guaranteed money and a second year.