Dodgers, Red Sox, And Diamondbacks In Key Trade Talks

As the MLB Winter Meetings kick off in Dallas, the baseball world is buzzing with trade rumors and free agent signings. While the biggest news will likely be the anticipated signing of superstar Juan Soto, there are other significant moves already taking shape. Let’s take a look at the latest developments, including free-agent deals, trade rumors, and team strategies heading into the 2024 season.

Dodgers Sign Michael Conforto

The Los Angeles Dodgers have secured veteran outfielder Michael Conforto with a one-year, $17 million contract. Conforto, 32, comes off a solid 2024 season with the San Francisco Giants, posting a .237/.309/.450 slash line with 20 home runs and 27 doubles in 130 games. Notably, Conforto’s road splits were impressive, hitting .253/.323/.530 away from Oracle Park. Despite adding Conforto, the Dodgers are still pursuing power-hitting outfielder Teoscar Hernández, who has long been intrigued by the possibility of joining the Dodgers but is also considering other options.

Red Sox and Teoscar Hernández

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly in the mix for frontline pitchers Max Fried and Corbin Burnes. Fried, a 30-year-old lefty, was 11-10 with a 3.25 ERA last season and was a key player in the Braves’ 2021 World Series win. Burnes, also 30, posted a 15-9 record and a 2.92 ERA in 2024, finishing fifth in AL Cy Young voting. As for Teoscar Hernández, while the Red Sox are focused on acquiring Soto, they are also eyeing Hernández as a potential fallback option if they miss out on him. Hernández is reportedly intrigued by the idea of playing at Fenway Park and has been a consistent power hitter for the Dodgers.

Diamondbacks Seek Trade with Cubs

The Arizona Diamondbacks recently attempted to spark trade talks with the Chicago Cubs, offering pitcher Jordan Montgomery in exchange for outfielder Cody Bellinger. Although the trade talks have not progressed, the move highlights the Diamondbacks’ willingness to shake up their roster. Montgomery, due for $22.5 million in 2025, struggled in 2024 with a 6.23 ERA and a -1.4 WAR. Meanwhile, Bellinger, who is earning $27.5 million, had a solid 2024 campaign with a .266/.325/.426 slash line and 2.2 WAR.

Orioles Consider Grichuk as Backup Plan

The Baltimore Orioles have agreed to terms with outfielder Tyler O’Neill on a three-year deal, but prior to finalizing that agreement, the team was considering Randal Grichuk as a backup option. Grichuk, 33, enjoyed a strong 2024 season with the Diamondbacks, hitting .291/.348/.528 with 12 home runs. His ability to perform against left-handed pitching makes him a valuable asset, as evidenced by his .319/.386/.528 slash line against the Southpaws last season.

Conclusion

As the winter meetings unfold, MLB teams are making strategic moves to position themselves for success in 2024. While the pursuit of Juan Soto dominates headlines, teams like the Dodgers, Red Sox, Diamondbacks, and Orioles are also making significant moves to improve their rosters. Expect more trade rumors and free-agent signings to come as teams finalize their plans for the upcoming season.