Essential Questions for MLB’s Winter Meetings: Free Agency and Hall of Fame Prospects

The Winter Meetings, baseball’s annual hot stove extravaganza, open Sunday at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Orlando. It will be four days filled with trades, free agent signings, and ongoing rumors, and historically, significant moves tend to occur during this time.

1. Will Tucker sign?

Kyle Tucker, currently the offseason’s leading free agent, remains unsigned. Major market teams like the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees are reportedly interested. The timeline for his signing remains uncertain, and the stakes are high.

2. Will the Cardinals trade Arenado?

It seems likely. Nolan Arenado had a farewell ceremony indicating possible trades. With a significant contract still outstanding, it will be intriguing to see how the organization proceeds.

3. Will a surprise trade candidate emerge?

Typically, every offseason sees unexpected trades, with potential candidates becoming known as the meetings progress.

4. Will the pitching market continue to move?

The recent trade of Sonny Gray to Red Sox sparks interest in other pitchers. The need for quality arms remains strong.

5. Will any NPB stars sign?

Japanese stars Tatsuya Imai, Munetaka Murakami, and Kazuma Okamoto are available for MLB teams this offseason and may have opportunities to sign soon.

6. Will any big names return to their teams?

Several free agents may decide to stay put, although trading typically reigns during these meetings.

7. Will manager interviews bring any news?

All 30 MLB managers will make statements, potentially revealing important updates or changes about their teams.

8. Will the Hall of Fame welcome any new members?

The Hall of Fame will meet soon to assess candidates like Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and others. Induction decisions will be announced soon after.

9. Who will win the Draft Lottery?

The new lottery system adds excitement as teams vie for the top six picks of the amateur draft, aiming to recover from less successful seasons.

10. Will a team find a gem in the Rule 5 Draft?

The Rule 5 Draft consistently yields surprises, leading teams to discover players who can thrive in significant roles.