MLB Free Agency Heats Up Ahead of Thanksgiving

LOS ANGELES, CA — Major League Baseball’s offseason is beginning to heat up as teams prepare for Thanksgiving. With just days left before the holiday, clubs are eager to finalize winter shopping, and the latest rumors indicate significant potential movements in player trades and signings.

The Detroit Tigers are reportedly interested in signing relief pitcher Ryan Helsley, aiming to convert him into a starter. The 31-year-old has not started a major league game since 2018 but had a 4.50 ERA in 58 appearances last season while splitting time between the Mets and another team.

Meanwhile, the San Francisco Giants are eyeing Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, posted by the Saitama Seibu Lions. Imai, who is 27, had an impressive 1.92 ERA and a 3.96 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 163 innings. With teams increasingly confident in the ability of NPB pitchers to transition successfully to MLB, Imai is expected to garner significant attention.

As the market for starting pitchers heats up, other teams like the New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and Baltimore Orioles are also looking to bolster their rotations. The Cubs have shown interest in more front-line starters and may pursue others alongside Imai.

In addition, several key free agents have opted out of their contracts, including Phillies outfielder Kyle Schwarber and Astros ace Framber Valdez, both anticipated to fetch lucrative deals. Schwarber, coming off a record season, hits free agency amid high demand across the league.

The upcoming winter meetings, set for Dec. 7-10, will likely catalyze trades and signings, making this offseason pivotal for many teams. As front offices assess their needs and aim to make impactful moves, baseball fans are eagerly watching how these developments unfold leading up to the New Year.