Baltimore Orioles' newly signed outfielder Ramón Laureano is set to earn a guaranteed $4 million in 2026, with a team option worth $6.5 million. His contract includes performance bonuses, offering $100,000 for MVP and $50,000 for All-Star selections among others. Last season, Laureano had a .259 average with 11 home runs across two teams, and his career stats reflect a .247 batting average with 82 home runs over seven years.

Ramón Laureano has signed a one-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles, featuring a guaranteed $4 million alongside a team option for $6.5 million in 2026. The deal includes performance incentives, rewarding Laureano with $100,000 for winning the MVP and $75,000 for finishing second. After a season with a combined .259 batting average, 11 home runs, and 33 RBIs, he will look to make a significant impact in Baltimore.

Laureano's incentives also include bonuses for All-Star selections and postseason awards. Known for his defensive skills and power, his performance will be crucial for the Orioles' playoff aspirations as they build a competitive roster.

Josh Hader's first season with the Houston Astros came to an unexpected end as they traded him to the Chicago Cubs after just one year. The move followed Ryan Pressly's approval, allowing him to waive his no-trade rights. While the Astros aimed to bolster their bullpen by signing Hader, the upcoming season now poses challenges as the bullpen’s depth and performance remain uncertain. Bryan Abreu is expected to step into the primary setup role alongside Hader, who had a mixed performance last year with a 3.80 ERA but still converted 34 of 38 save opportunities.

The trade leaves the Astros with questions about their roster. Only Tayler Scott appears firmly established, having recorded a 2.23 ERA last season. New faces and untested pitchers will compete for bullpen roles during spring training, including the likes of Bryan King and Kaleb Ort. The Astros previously counted on Pressly's experience, which they will now lack. With their bullpen's history of struggles, the Astros may need to explore external options to fill the gaps left by Hader and Pressly.