MLB Rumors: Not even Scott Boras knew about the Orioles-Corbin Burnes trade
Late last week, the Milwaukee Brewers and Baltimore Orioles pulled off a blockbuster trade, with right-hander Corbin Burnes being the centerpiece of the deal. Burnes was sent to Baltimore in exchange for shortstop Joey Ortiz, left-hander DL Hall, and a 2024 Competitive Balance draft pick.
Many Brewers fans were left wondering why Milwaukee ultimately kicked the tires on this trade, especially after they signed Rhys Hoskins to a two-year deal.
FanSided's Robert Murray explained why the move ultimately took place, pointing to last year's arbitration hearing as the moment when Burnes' relationship with the Brewers was fractured beyond repair.
"There's no denying that the relationship is definitely hurt from what transpired," Burnes said at the time. "When some of the things that are said - for instance, they basically put me at the forefront of the reasons why we didn't make the postseason. That's something that probably doesn't need to be said."
Interestingly, Burnes' agent, Scott Boras was not aware of the trade until Burnes called him to inform him.
Brewers General Manager Matt Arnold called Burnes to inform him of the deal. Orioles General Manager Mike Elias followed up with a call to welcome Burnes to Milwaukee.
It wasn't until Burnes phoned Boras that he was made aware of the deal.
Ultimately, what took place back in 2023 gives the Brewers a bad look. Burnes was their ace for several years and still had a solid 2022 season despite the Brewers missing the postseason. The former Cy Young went 12-8 with a 2.94 ERA.
Even amidst their second-half collapse following the Josh Hader trade, Burnes was a bright spot, so the idea of him being blamed for their struggles is certainly confusing.
But it is clear that the relationship between Burnes and the Brewers was damaged beyond repair at that point, with that ultimately being the deciding factor in the trade with the Orioles.
Baltimore now has a chance to defend its AL East title with Burnes as their ace. As for the Brewers, it is unknown what direction they will go after the trade.
MLB Rumors: Mets pick up the pace in JD Martinez talks
After the trades of Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, it seemed as though the New York Mets were planning on taking a step back from contention. Their offseason activity however, would suggest otherwise.
Though New York hasn't made a big splash, they have made some very impactful frugal additions and may have yet another one coming.
According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets have had dialogue with slugger J.D. Martinez's camp with spring training fast approaching. Puma predicted that if the price is right, New York may ultimately decide to make a move.
There’s been dialogue between J.D. Martinez’s camp and the Mets as spring training approaches. Proven offensive pieces are still available in a buyer’s market. If price is right, just maybe the Mets will bite.
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) February 7, 2024
Martinez would be an interesting fit in New York. He'd bring power from the right side and would be a solid option as a designated hitter. The 36-year-old had a strong season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, hitting .271 with 33 home runs and 103 RBI.
Though it wouldn't be a huge splash, a move to sign Martinez would increase the Mets' chances at contention in 2024, and it appears that even without a big splash, the Mets plan to make frugal additions that would keep them competitive for the next few seasons.
MLB Rumors: How long will Alex Bregman stay with the Houston Astros?
Late on Tuesday, the Houston Astros cashed in on their franchise icon, second baseman Jose Altuve.
The former MVP signed a five-year, $125 million contract extension. The contract will start at the beginning of the 2025 season.
Altuve was set to enter free agency at the end of the 2024 season along with Alex Bregman. Bregman is still not under contract beyond 2024.
While the Astros are fortunate to have Altuve around for the next five years, this may ultimately lead to them not having enough money to retain Bregman.
Like Altuve, Bregman is a franchise icon who played a key role in bringing championships back to Houston in 2017 and 2022, and the thought of him in another uniform is something that shakes Astros fans to their core.
The Astros are fortunate to have a deep farm system, but losing Bregman would be a tough pill for the team and their fanbase to swallow.
2024 could very well end up being Bregman's last year in Houston. To make matters worse, Framber Valdez and Kyle Tucker are prepared to enter free agency after the 2025 season.
So, even with Altuve locked up for the foreseeable future, Astros fans may be forced to say goodbye to some of their favorite players.