Key Highlights
- Kyle Schwarber signs a five-year, $150 million contract with the Phillies.
- The Angels acquire Vaughn Grissom from the Red Sox in a trade involving Isaiah Jackson.
- The Tigers express interest in free-agent infielder Ha-Seong Kim.
- The Pirates are expected to make an offer to free-agent infielder Jorge Polanco.
- The Mets, Dodgers, and Blue Jays are pursuing star reliever Edwin Díaz.
Philippine Slugger Returns: Schwarber Joins the Phillies
Kyle Schwarber, a 33-year-old free-agent slugger known for his 56 home runs in 2025 and his second-place finish to Shohei Ohtani in the NL MVP race, has agreed to terms on a five-year, $150 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. This move solidifies Schwarber’s return as an integral part of the lineup alongside fellow star Bryce Harper.
Impact on the Phillies
The Phillies’ commitment to Schwarber is seen as a significant step towards maintaining their competitiveness in the NL East division and beyond. With Schwarber expected to provide robust power, the Phillies are better positioned for future playoff runs. Manager Rob Thomson’s extension through 2027 also adds stability to Philadelphia’s coaching staff.
Angels Land Utility Player Grissom
The Los Angeles Angels have bolstered their infield depth by acquiring Vaughn Grissom from the Boston Red Sox in a trade that included minor-leaguer Isaiah Jackson. Grissom, who was part of the Chris Sale trade two offseasons ago and has struggled with injuries over the past couple of years, is now out of options, meaning he must pass through waivers if moved to the minors.
Grissom’s Potential Impact
Despite his struggles in 2025, Grissom brings versatility as both a second baseman and shortstop. His experience at all four corner positions could make him an asset off the bench for manager Billy Hatcher. The trade also adds depth to the Angels’ farm system with Isaiah Jackson’s inclusion.
Tigers Show Interest in Kim
The Detroit Tigers are reportedly among the teams expressing interest in free-agent infielder Ha-Seong Kim, who recently returned from an offseason shoulder surgery. After slashing .234/.304/.345 in 48 games with the Rays and Braves during the 2025 season, Kim’s defensive prowess at shortstop could address a weakness for Detroit.
Kim’s Market
The Tigers’ pursuit of Kim aligns with their need to strengthen their infield depth. While Alex Bregman remains a top target, teams like the Tigers are willing to consider more economical options who can still contribute offensively and defensively at shortstop.
Bullpen Buzz: Díaz Joins Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers have added another high-profile reliever to their pitching staff by signing Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million deal. The signing addresses the Dodgers’ ninth-inning struggles in 2025, where Tanner Scott struggled with home runs and Roki Sasaki was relied upon inconsistently.
Impact on Mets and Blue Jays
The signing of Díaz has implications for his former team, the Mets, who recently signed Devin Williams to a three-year deal worth $51 million. The competition in the ninth inning is heating up as both teams look to solidify their late-inning relief corps.
Other Notable Moves
The Philadelphia Phillies have also made moves by signing free-agent reliever Steven Matz, who reportedly agreed to a two-year pact with the Tampa Bay Rays. Additionally, the San Diego Padres are exploring ways to reduce payroll while still maintaining competitive depth in their infield and rotation.
Future Implications
The winter meetings continue to be a period of significant activity for teams looking to address needs through trades and free agency. The signings and interest shown by various franchises highlight the ongoing pursuit of talent at every level, from star players like Schwarber to key contributors like Grissom.
As the meetings progress, more transactions are expected to shape the landscape of Major League Baseball for the upcoming season. Fans can look forward to a series of updates and developments that will continue to impact team rosters and strategies heading into the 2026 campaign.