MLB Winter Meetings 2025: Ketel Marte, Michael King, & Dodgers' Reunion Rumors (2026)

MLB Rumors: Winter Meetings Heat Up with Trades and Free-Agent Signings

The annual Winter Meetings are set to begin in Orlando, promising to be the busiest four days of the MLB offseason. Here's a breakdown of the latest rumors to get you ready for the week ahead.

Marte's Market Heating Up

• Ketel Marte, an All-Star second baseman, is generating interest from multiple teams, including the Rays, Red Sox, and Tigers. He has a five-team no-trade list but will gain 10-and-5 rights on the 2026 season's tenth day, providing full no-trade protection.
• The Diamondbacks, facing pitching needs, could trade Marte for multiple arms, making this offseason their last opportunity before his potential veto of a deal.

Royals Eyeing Yastrzemski

• The Royals are interested in re-signing outfielder Mike Yastrzemski, who joined them in a deadline trade with the Giants this summer.
• With a .237/.339/.500 batting average and nine home runs in 50 games, Yastrzemski is a productive addition.
• The Royals' outfield struggled in 2025, hitting .225/.285/.348 with 37 home runs and a minus-1.1 WAR, making Yastrzemski a key target for improvement.

Michael King's Free-Agent Appeal

• Michael King, a right-handed pitcher, is a popular free agent with interest from the Mets, Red Sox, and Tigers.
• King, 30, missed time due to injuries in 2025 but showcased top-of-the-rotation potential in 2024 and has late-inning relief experience.
• Declining the $22.025 million qualifying offer, King's signing team will surrender a draft pick, making him an attractive addition for any team.

Rays' High-Priced Players Stay Put?

• Despite their history of trading top players, the Rays may retain Yandy Díaz and Brandon Lowe, with a focus on finding a starting pitcher.
• With a $11 million club option declined for closer Pete Fairbanks, the Rays' payroll for 2026 is projected to be around $85 million, similar to 2025.

Marlins' Pérez Off-Limits

• The Marlins are willing to trade all their starting pitchers except Eury Pérez, making Sandy Alcantara, Edward Cabrera, and Ryan Weathers potential trade targets.
• Pérez, who had discussions about a long-term extension, is owed $17 million in 2026 with a $21 million club option for 2027.

Dodgers Eyeing Hernández Reunion

• The Dodgers, seeking a utility player, have mutual interest in re-signing Enrique Hernández, who can play every position except catcher.
• Hernández, 34, had surgery on his non-throwing elbow and will miss the World Baseball Classic, with his Opening Day status uncertain.

Mariners Open to Re-Signing Garver

• The Mariners are interested in re-signing Mitch Garver, who spent the last two seasons with them, hitting .187/.290/.341 with 24 home runs.
• With a need for a backup catcher, the Mariners' decision to trade Harry Ford to the Nationals could lead to Garver's return.