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This week is a crucial period on the baseball calendar, highlighted by awards announcements and the General Managers Meetings in Las Vegas. With a near certainty of a lockout on Dec. 1 that would eliminate the Winter Meetings, this gathering serves as a rare opportunity for all executives to meet in person, potentially sparking a surge of early transactions.
Mets to Meet With Tarik Skubal and Skip Overhaul
The New York Post reports that the Mets have a meeting scheduled later this week in California with two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, the premier free agent available this offseason. Owner Steve Cohen is expected to push for Skubal, though president of baseball operations David Stearns has traditionally been hesitant to commit massive, long-term deals to pitchers. The team also needs first base and bullpen help, with Nolan McLean and Christian Scott currently locking down the 2027 rotation.
Despite a disappointing 74-88 last-place finish in 2026, MLB.com reports that the Mets are not planning a major overhaul this winter. Stearns previously acknowledged that the massive turnover from the prior offseason created too much risk. The silver lining of last season was giving extensive playing time to rookies like Carson Benge and Nolan McLean.
White Sox Prioritize Rotation Help
White Sox general manager Chris Getz stated during an MLB Network Radio interview that adding rotation help is the team’s top priority. Getz confirmed they will explore both free agency and trades, while also revealing that postseason closer Grant Taylor will transition into the starting rotation. The White Sox possess internal depth with pitchers like Sean Burke, Luis Castillo, and Noah Schultz, but aim to find a definitive ace.
Padres Monitor Skubal and Japanese Stars
MLB Network reports that the Padres have joined the teams expressing interest in Skubal. San Diego faces major rotation needs alongside a newly willing-to-spend ownership group. Additionally, The Athletic reports the Padres are connected to several Japanese talents, including free agents Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, as well as NPB third baseman Teruaki Sato. Meanwhile, free agent left-hander Adrian Morejon prefers to remain in the bullpen despite drawing significant interest as a starter, according to The Athletic.
Blue Jays and Cubs Pursue Roster Additions
According to Sportsnet, the Blue Jays are interested in free agent second baseman Brandon Lowe to inject much-needed power and a left-handed bat into a right-handed lineup that finished last in home runs. Meanwhile, The Athletic reports that the Cubs hope to add three established starting pitchers in free agency, focusing on the second- and third-tier market after losing seven of their nine primary starting pitchers to free agency.
Braves Keep Acuña and Red Sox Uncommitted on Story
The Braves have no interest in trading former National League MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., according to MLB Network, though other core pieces like Ozzie Albies or Austin Riley could potentially be moved instead. In Boston, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow declined to commit to Trevor Story as the starting shortstop for next season when speaking to reporters, including the Boston Globe, as top prospect Franklin Arias prepares to make his debut and pressure the position.
