Rangers get Robert Garcia back from injured list

There had been some rumblings that the Red Sox could be working on a long-term extension with the 30-year-old right-hander, but there were never any doubts that he would return to be a major part of the Red Sox’ bullpen in 2027. Whitlock was outstanding over 54 appearances in 2026, registering a 1.72 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and a 59/9 K/BB ratio over 52 1/3 innings while notching seven victories and four saves.

Groshans, a first-round pick (12th overall) from the 2018 draft class (Blue Jays), had a nice season in the minor leagues in 2026 — slashing .276/.339/.576 with 33 homers, 88 RBI and a 91/42 K/BB ratio over 495 plate appearances between Double-A Columbus and Triple-A Gwinnett. He’s likely to open the 2027 season at the Triple-A level.

It’s an interesting decision as Matsui is only set to make $6.5 million in 2027 after a remarkable season in which he posted a 1.83 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and a 68/36 K/BB ratio over 64 innings in 54 appearances out of the Padres’ bullpen. He’ll once again function as part of the Padres’ setup corps in front of dominant closer Mason Miller.

The 33-year-old hurler made 46 appearances for the Padres during the 2026 campaign, compiling a 4.92 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and a 59/26 K/BB ratio over 64 innings of work. He’s likely to once again operate in a swingman role for the Padres in 2027 at a very affordable rate.

Once that posting becomes official, Itoh and his representatives will have a 45-day window to negotiate with MLB teams. The 29-year-old hurler made 26 starts in 2026, registering a 3.18 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and a 159/34 K/BB ratio across 172 2/3 innings of work. He should generate plenty of interest among MLB teams that are looking for mid-rotation starters.

The former top prospect has never been able to put it all together at the MLB level and is probably better suited as a utility player, which the Braves have plenty of use for. Bruján appeared in just nine games for the Mets in 2026, going 1-for-11 (.091) with one RBI in his 13 plate appearances. He spent the bulk of the season at Triple-A Syracuse where he slashed .278/.385/.421 with five homers, 34 RBI and 16 stolen bases in 258 plate appearances. He’ll add quality depth for the Braves.

As anticipated, the 28-year-old southpaw has chosen to hit the open market rather than accepting his outright assignment to Triple-A Salt Lake. Peralta made 16 appearances at the MLB level between the Rockies and Angels, struggling to a 6.65 ERA, 1.87 WHIP and a 23/9 K/BB ratio over 23 innings. He’ll almost assuredly have to settle for a minor league deal this winter with an invitation to big league camp.

Dunn appeared in nine games with the Rays during the 2026 campaign, going 1-for-11 (.091) with one RBI and a 3/1 K/BB ratio in his 12 plate appearances. He’s now free to peddle his wares on the open market.

Astros’ new general manager Randy Flores wasted no time getting to work, acquiring the 27-year-old right-hander from the Rays. Reifert made 46 appearances at Triple-A Durham in 2026, registering a strong 2.48 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and an 81/34 K/BB ratio across 58 innings of work. He’ll get an opportunity to compete for a spot in the Astros’ bullpen during spring training.

It appears Randy Flores first deal since being named general manager will be to acquire Reifert. Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports that the return will be cash considerations for the Rays. The right-hander was returned to Tampa Bay after the Nationals selected him in the Rule 5 draft prior to the 2026 season, but Washington chose not to carry him on the 40-man roster. He forged a 2.46 ERA for Triple-A Durham, and will have a chance to win a bullpen spot with the Astros this spring in Florida.