MLB Rumors: A Week of Moves and Rumblings
The MLB off-season is in full swing, with teams making strategic moves to strengthen their rosters. Here's a breakdown of some of the latest rumors and transactions:
AL East Teams Pursuing Michael King
Free-agent right-hander Michael King is attracting interest from three AL East teams: the Orioles, Red Sox, and Yankees. King, 30, is a familiar face in the AL East, having played for the Yankees before being traded to the Padres. He had a standout 2024 season, finishing seventh in the NL Cy Young voting, but shoulder and knee injuries impacted his 2025 performance. Despite this, King remains a sought-after player, especially as a buy-low candidate.
Diamondbacks Reunite with Merrill Kelly
The Arizona Diamondbacks are bringing back Merrill Kelly on a two-year, $40 million contract. Kelly, 37, had a successful stint with the D-backs before being traded to the Rangers this summer. With key players like Zac Gallen and Corbin Burnes likely to be absent for the start of the 2026 season, Kelly's addition provides stability to the rotation. The D-backs already have Michael Soroka, Ryne Nelson, Brandon Pfaadt, and Eduardo Rodriguez in the mix, making Kelly a valuable addition.
Brendan Donovan in High Demand
The Giants and Mariners are leading the charge to acquire the Cardinals' super utility player, Brendan Donovan. St. Louis aims to receive multiple prospects, likely pitchers, in return. Donovan, 28, is a versatile player who can play multiple positions, including second base. His ability to hit and his popularity as a trade target make him a valuable asset.
Luis Robert Jr. on the Move?
The Mets, Padres, and Pirates are showing interest in White Sox center fielder Luis Robert Jr. The ChiSox declined to trade Robert at the deadline, opting to keep him for the 2026 season. However, with his age and recent hitting struggles, the White Sox might need to eat some of his contract to facilitate a trade. Robert's defensive skills and baserunning abilities make him a desirable player.
Yankees Eyeing JoJo Romero
The Yankees are interested in acquiring Cardinals lefty reliever JoJo Romero, who is a year away from free agency. Romero's sinker-based pitching style and above-average ground ball rate make him an attractive option for the Yankees, who prioritize ground balls and late-inning stability. With lefty hitters like Roman Anthony and Jarren Duran in the AL East, Romero's skills could be a game-changer.
