MLB Player News

Hunter has spent the last two seasons as a special assistant in Los Angeles’ front office working with general manager Perry Minasian, who is entering the final season of his contract. The 50-year-old former big leaguer played 19 seasons in the majors, including a half-decade run with the Angels from 2008-2012, and was a five-time All-Star selection. His connections to the organization, and reported close relationship with Halos owner Arte Moreno, make him a serious candidate for the position following skipper Ron Washington’s dismissal. The other big name that has surfaced is Hall of Famer Albert Pujols, who is considered the leading candidate at the moment.

This announcement ensures that the trade deadline will not fall on a weekend. Last year’s deadline was on July 31, but it has changed dates in recent years. If anything, teams will have an extra couple of days to decide their direction.

Jack Curry of YES Network reports that there’s still interest in having him return to the Yankees, though he might have to accept a reduced role should he return in 2026. Goldschmidt, 38, posted a .981 OPS against left-handers last season compared to a .619 OPS against right-handers.

The move clears a spot for the newly-acquired Jhonny Pereda on the 40-man roster. Kowar, 28, posted a 4.24 ERA and 15/7 K/BB ratio over 17 innings out of Seattle’s bullpen last season. It was his first year back from Tommy John surgery.

Pereda was designated for assignment by the Twins last week. The 29-year-old will go into spring training as a depth piece behind Cal Raleigh and Andrew Knizner.

Booser had big problems with the home run (eight in 31 innings) and regressed in the control department in his lone year with the White Sox after being acquired from the Red Sox last winter. He throws in the mid-90s and shows a plus slider, so the Rays might be able to get more from him.

Lara will stick with the Nationals, which is probably best for his chances of seeing significant time in the majors this season. The 23-year-old was DFA’d last week after a season in which he finished with a 7.55 ERA in the minors and an 8.79 ERA in 14 1/3 innings as a reliever in the majors.

Sandridge posted a 4.66 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, and 54/19 K/BB ratio in 36 2/3 innings at Triple-A last season. The strikeouts are obviously intriguing, but he remains a work in progress, and will also be 27 years old on Opening Day.

Luciano was on the Yankees for four days. Since the end of the season, Luciano has been on the Giants, Pirates, Orioles, and Yankees. It remains to be seen where the former top prospect ends up, but he’s just 24 years old, so there may still be a chance for him to establish himself as an MLB regular.

The Rangers claimed Hamel off waivers from the Orioles, but then designated him for assignment last week. Hamel was once an interesting starting pitching prospect for the Mets, but has been moved to the bullpen. In 2025, hehad a 5.32 ERA in 11 starts and 20 relief appearances for Triple-A Syracuse. It remains to be seen what role the Yankees use him in.

Since the end of the season, Bido has been with the Athletics, Braves, Rays, Marlins, and Angels. We’ll see if it sticks this time. The 30-year-old has flashed some intriguing skills at times and could try to win a spot in the Angels’ rotation out of spring training, but we’d consider him a long shot.