BRAVES NEWS
Braves win arbitration case against Mike Foltynewicz
Not a lot on the news front for the Braves on Saturday but word did come that they had defeated pitcher Mike Foltynewicz in arbitration. Neither side should be too upset given that there was just a $100,000 gap in the two offers. Folty, who made $544,000 last season, will make $2.2 million this season. In addition to the raise, his wife also gave birth to his first son.
MLB NEWS
Cubs sign Yu Darvish to 6-year, $126 million contract
Yu Darvish finally has a new home as he inked a 6-year, $126 million contract with the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. The deal includes an opt-out clause after the second year and performance clauses that could push the value of the deal to $150 million. Perhaps this will be the signing that sets the frozen free agent market in motion.
Bo Porter discusses running spring free agent camp
Former Braves third base coach and special assistant Bo Porter now works for the Players Association and will be working at the spring training free agent camp in Florida. He recently discussed the situation with the Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo.
“I took the job to help the players and do what I can to continue to lift the game of baseball,” Porter said. “It evolved that there was a realistic chance that this camp could happen so we could provide support and a stable ground for our players and provide them with a preseason routine and regimen as they await where their destination might be.”
MLB trade rumors: Astros, Marlins discussing J.T. Realmuto
The Marlins might not be finished selling yet. Catcher J.T. Realmuto has previously expressed his desire to be relocated and Craig Mish of Sirius XM reports that the Houston Astros are the latest team showing interest. Miami is reportedly interested in a deal centered around Houston’s top prospect Kyle Tucker.
Rays hurler Jake Odorizzi drawing trade interest
Jake Odorizzi will have his arbitration hearing against the Rays on Monday but whether or not he remains in Tampa for the 2018 season remains to be seen. The Angels have expressed interest in what would give them a power option for their rotation. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal also reports that the Yankees are monitoring Odorizzi’s situation as well.
Derek Dietrich will start in left for Marlins
After dealing their entire outfield from 2017, the Miami Marlins have penciled in Derek Dietrich as the starter in left according to manager Don Mattingly.