EPISODE 88 - MLB OFFSEASON RUMORS AND NEWS - MICHAEL KING SIGNS WITH THE PADRES - WHY COULDN'T THE METS DO THAT? - WHERE THE METS CURRENTLY STAND IN FREE AGENCY - RUMORS ABOUT CODY BELLINGER'S CRAZY ASKING PRICE - FRONT LINE PITCHING REMAINS ON THE MARKET, WILL METS GO GET SOME? WHAT ABOUT THE RED SOX? - MURAKAMI NEEDS TO SIGN IN THE NEXT 4 DAYS - TATSUYA IMAI'S REPORTEDLY DOWN TO CUBS AND YANKEES - BREGMAN'S ASKING PRICE - COULD SCOTT BORAS BE HURTING BELLINGER AND BREGMAN - POTENTIAL BIG STARTING PITCHER TRADES - COULD SKUBAL GET MOVED? - WHAT ABOUT FREDDY PERALTA? - BO BICHETTE AS A BIG BAT ON THE MARKET - MUCH MORE ABOUT MLB OFFSEASON - POWERED BY BTO MEDIA00:00 INTRO00:45 MICHAEL KING SIGNS WITH PADRES2:45 METS PLANS13:00 METS SOLUTIONS21:15 TEAM USA PITCHING 24:30 CODY BELLINGER RUMORS27:00 KYLE TUCKER RUMORS29:20 ALEX BREGMAN RUMORS34:00 MUNETAKA MURAKAMI39:00 YANKEES RUMORSCody BellingerCody Bellinger, a versatile outfielder/first baseman, enjoyed a strong 2025 with the Yankees, hitting .272 with 29 homers and 98 RBIs, then opted out to test free agency again. He’s drawn significant interest from teams like the New York Mets and may command a short-to-mid-term, high-AAV deal given his ability to hit for power and play solid defense in multiple spots. Bellinger’s career renaissance and positional flexibility make him one of the more coveted bats still on the market. Kyle TuckerKyle Tucker stands as arguably the top free agent position player this offseason. Despite injury setbacks in recent seasons, he’s widely projected to command one of the largest contracts in baseball, with some projections nearing $400M+ over long terms. A five-tool outfielder with power, walk discipline, and baserunning value, Tucker’s bat and athletic profile make him a coveted centerpiece for teams seeking an offensive cornerstone. Multiple contenders are expected to pursue him aggressively. Alex BregmanAlex Bregman, a three-time All-Star third baseman, returns to free agency after opting out of his contract with the Red Sox. In 2025, he hit .273 with 18 homers despite missing time due to injury. Bregman brings consistent on-base skills, power, and elite infield defense when healthy. Rumors link him to clubs like the Diamondbacks, Cubs, Mets, Tigers, and others seeking a veteran third base presence. He’s expected to earn a sizeable multi-year deal if teams value his blend of contact, plate discipline, and leadership. Bo BichetteBo Bichette, one of the top middle-infield bats available, posted a strong 2025 offensive season (.311/.357/.483, 18 HR, 94 RBI) but battled a knee injury that affected his defense at shortstop. Because of that, teams might consider moving him to second or third base, increasing his market appeal. Bichette’s hitting ability and age (28) make him a premium offensive option on the free-agent market, with interest from multiple suitors including division rivals of Toronto. His blend of contact, bat speed, and run production keeps him near the top of the available position players. Tatsuya ImaiTatsuya Imai, a 27-year-old right-handed pitching star from Japan’s NPB, is one of the most intriguing international free agents. Posted by the Seibu Lions, he posted a 1.92 ERA with 178 strikeouts in 163⅔ innings in 2025 and is regarded as a potential frontline starter. MLB teams such as the Phillies, Yankees, and Cubs are in the mix, with bidding expected before his signing window closes January 2. Imai’s fastball (mid-90s, up to 99), plus a deep arsenal and strikeout profile, project him as an impact rotation anchor once he signs.