MLB Offseason Notes: Pirates Trade Potential,Padres Reunion,and Front Office Moves
Several teams are navigating the early stages of the MLB offseason,wiht potential trades,free agent decisions,and front office restructuring taking shape.
Pirates Considering Pitching Moves: The pittsburgh Pirates may be willing to move starting pitcher Johan Oviedo, despite his appeal to the institution. Oviedo has reportedly improved his fastball shapes during rehabilitation, creating better separation between his four-seamer and two-seamer. While he missed significant time, he remains relatively affordable with a projected $2 million salary for the 2026 season, according to MLBTradeRumors.com. Oviedo’s size (6-foot-5, 245 pounds) and velocity (touching 98 mph) also make him an intriguing prospect for other teams. Though, the Pirates are unlikely to trade multiple starting pitchers and would need to secure replacements if they move on from any rotation members. Right-handed pitcher Mitch Keller, owed $54.5 million over the next three seasons, is considered the most likely starter to be traded.
Padres Benefit from Familiarity: the San Diego Padres saw a boost in free agency thanks to the influence of new manager Craig Stammen and the return of pitching coach Ruben Niebla. These hires were instrumental in bringing back left-handed pitcher Kyle Hart. Stammen and Hart developed a relationship last season while Stammen worked in the Padres’ front office, and the two reside near each other in Ohio. Hart, who will turn 33, signed a one-year contract with a club option for 2027, guaranteeing him $1.2 million. Despite a 5.86 ERA in 43 innings last season, his 3.56 expected ERA suggests potential for improvement, and he anticipates a similar role in the rotation/bullpen mix next season.
front Office and Player Movement Rumors:
* Colorado Rockies: As Paul DePodesta builds his front office, two names have surfaced as potential hires: Ian Levin and Chad MacDonald. Levin previously worked with DePodesta in the New york Mets organization, rising to assistant GM before departing at the end of 2024. MacDonald, a veteran scout, also overlapped with DePodesta at the Mets.
* Chicago White Sox: Teams have inquired about White Sox catcher kyle Teel, a left-handed hitter who impressed more than fellow catcher Edgar quero during his debut season. Though, the white Sox are currently not actively seeking to trade either catcher, prioritizing depth at the position.
* Qualifying Offers & Tender Deadlines: Tuesday marks the deadline for 13 free agents to accept or reject their qualifying offers (4 p.m.ET). Teams must file their reserve lists for all major- and minor-league levels by 6 p.m. Tuesday,and the tender deadline for players is 5 p.m. Friday.
