Major League Baseball’s offseason is in its final stages, with just over a month left until pitchers and catchers report for camps in Florida and Arizona. That leaves teams with precious little time to make final touches on their rosters. Below, CBS Sports has all of Wednesday’s notable news, moves and rumors.
Verdugo market is heating up
According to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo, veteran outfielder Alex Verdugo is attracting interest from a number of clubs. Are you among those jockeying for his service? Pirates, Mets, Blue Jays.
Verdugo, 28, had a disappointing season with the Yankees. He batted .233/.291/.356 (OPS+83) with just 13 home runs in 149 games. Nevertheless, supporting clubs likely view him as a rebounding candidate based on his youth and track record (he still boasts an OPS of over 101 in his career).
The fact that he is almost certain to agree to a one-year deal at a modest wage does not hurt Verdugo’s marketability.
Nationals Ink Rosario
The Nationals have signed veteran utility player Amed Rosario, the team announced Wednesday. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Rosario will receive a one-year contract worth $2 million.
Rosario, 29, split into three teams last season. He hit .280/.306/.380 (OPS+94) with three home runs and 13 stolen bases. He is believed to be employed as a reservist.
Red Sox interested in Minter
Cotillo also reported that the Red Sox are one of the teams showing interest in left-handed reliever AJ Minter.
Minter, 31, has played in about 400 games and has a career ERA of 3.28. CBS Sports ranked him the No. 48 free agent entering the winter. Here is what I wrote at that time:
That number is a little lower than Minter should be evaluated based on his track record as a high-leverage lefty, but we’re wondering how the team will react to his season-ending hip surgery in August. I’m betting on it. To his credit, he continued to be effective when available. In addition to his debt, his ball velocity, strikeout rate and home run rate have dropped to the worst of his career. It seems fair to attribute those marks to Minter’s physical illness. At the same time, it would be wise to consider the possibility that he will never be at peak form again.
The Red Sox have reportedly held talks with several other top free agent relievers, including former Cardinals closer Andrew Kittredge.
White Sox add Perez
According to FanSided’s Robert Murray, the White Sox have agreed to terms with left-hander Martin Perez. Perez, 33, was split between the Pirates and Padres last season. He posted a 4.53 ERA (92+ ERA) and a 2.18 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 135 innings. He figures to be part of the White Sox’ opening rotation and has a chance to establish himself as an interesting trade candidate before the deadline.
