The recent signing of Yoshinobu Yamamoto marked one of the last major moves in the current MLB free agency period. However, the Hot Stove season is expected to pick up once again as teams shift their focus to the next tier of available players. Let’s take a look at some recent signings and developments in the world of baseball.
Mariners Boost Lineup with Mitch Garver
The Seattle Mariners have been in search of a power hitter to strengthen their lineup, and it seems they’ve found their man. The team recently reached an agreement on a two-year, $24 million contract with catcher Mitch Garver. Garver, a 32-year-old slugger, had an impressive season with the Texas Rangers, boasting a slash line of .270/.370/.500 with 19 home runs and 50 RBI in 344 plate appearances. While Garver is known more for his hitting prowess than his defensive skills, injuries have been a concern in his career. Nevertheless, his .870 OPS in 2023 led all catchers with over 300 plate appearances, making him a valuable addition to the Mariners’ lineup.
Garver is expected to primarily serve as the designated hitter, given his injury history. With his power at the plate, he could be a significant asset to the team, batting in the heart of the order and contributing 20-plus home runs and 60-plus RBI if he maintains his health.
Interest in Teoscar Hernández from Red Sox and Angels
Another slugger generating interest in the market is Teoscar Hernández, with both the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Angels expressing interest in the 31-year-old outfielder. Hernández spent the previous season with the Seattle Mariners, where he posted a batting line of .258/.305/.435, along with 26 home runs, 93 RBI, and seven stolen bases in a career-high 678 plate appearances. Known for his aggressive approach at the plate and tendency to strike out at a high rate, Hernández compensates with his ability to make hard contact. In 2023, he recorded a 13.8 percent barrel rate and a 49.4 percent hard-hit rate.
While Hernández’s batting average may not reach the .296 mark again, his career track record suggests a reasonable expectation of around .258. Given his profile as a power hitter with limited on-base skills and no defensive value, a short-term contract is likely the best fit for him. Both the Red Sox and Angels have their own considerations regarding outfield playing time and lineup support, making Hernández’s eventual destination uncertain. In NFBC drafts, Hernández is currently being selected with an average pick of 151, placing him in an intriguing position among fellow outfield sluggers.
Tigers Strengthen Bullpen with Shelby Miller
The Detroit Tigers added veteran depth to their bullpen by signing Shelby Miller to a one-year, $3 million contract, with a $4.25 million club option for 2025. Miller, a 33-year-old right-hander, experienced a career resurgence in the bullpen with the Los Angeles Dodgers last season. He delivered impressive numbers, including a 1.71 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, and a 42/19 K/BB ratio across 42 innings. While these statistics are noteworthy, some underlying factors suggest that he may have benefited from a bit of luck.
Miller’s fastball velocity and swinging-strike rate haven’t seen significant improvements despite his successful transition to relief pitching. His low .165 BABIP (Batting Average on Balls in Play) is likely unsustainable. Nevertheless, the Tigers are banking on Miller to build on his newfound bullpen success. With limited established relievers on the roster, he could be deployed in various situations, ranging from long relief to high-leverage spots.
As the MLB offseason progresses, more signings and developments are expected, shaping the landscape for the upcoming season.