With spring training in full swing, the trade and free-agent markets continue to buzz, as several notable players, including Marcus Stroman and Nolan Arenado, linger on the trade block. Stroman, currently with the Yankees, is under consideration for a deal due to his noticeable decline and the Yankees' willingness to absorb some of his remaining salary. Alternatives like Kyle Gibson remain unsigned, complicating his potential move.

Arenado, on the other hand, has expressed a desire to play for a contender, and while the Cardinals seem intent on keeping him, the trade market has opened slightly with Alex Bregman's recent signing. Prospective teams like the Yankees and Tigers are likely to consider him, but there's uncertainty surrounding his no-trade clause.

Meanwhile, the Padres are facing financial constraints, possibly leading to the departure of their All-Star closer Robert Suarez. Teams like the Cubs and Mets are rumored as potential landing spots. On the Marlins' side, players like Anthony Bender could be traded to bolster their rebuilding efforts.

Lastly, Christian Vázquez of the Twins finds himself on the trade list after losing his starting position, with the Athletics potentially eyeing him as a low-cost option.

Speculation is circulating about a potential trade involving Dylan Cease from the Chicago White Sox to the Minnesota Twins, but insiders suggest the likelihood is low. Reportedly, the Twins are more focused on moving catcher Christian Vázquez to the San Diego Padres. Twins ownership may be considering a slight increase in payroll, and while Cease's contract could be a factor, the team aims to remain competitive as they prepare for a sale. Any trade framework involving Vázquez could include players like Trevor Larnach or Chris Paddack, among others, though the Twins are reportedly not willing to part with top prospects. The situation remains fluid as both teams seek mutually beneficial outcomes.

The San Diego Padres and Minnesota Twins are reportedly discussing a trade for catcher Christian Vázquez, who has two World Series championships to his name. While no agreement is on the immediate horizon, both teams have shown a strong interest in making this deal happen. The Padres currently face a significant void at the catcher position following Kyle Higashioka’s departure to the Texas Rangers in free agency. Presently, their roster includes Luis Campusano and Brett Sullivan, with Vázquez expected to step in as the immediate starter.

Additionally, the Twins are exploring trade options for right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease, but the Padres are hesitant to part with him unless they receive a substantial return. Vázquez's contract, which is valued at $10 million and expires in 2025, is a point of contention in negotiations. The Padres are trying to minimize their financial commitment, which adds complexity to the ongoing discussions.

Vázquez's performance in the previous season included a batting average of .221, with seven home runs and 27 RBIs. In contrast, Campusano's numbers were less impressive, hitting .227 with a subpar defensive record. As the Padres look to address their roster gaps without making major free-agent acquisitions this offseason, Vázquez represents a viable one-year option as they prepare for the future, including the anticipated debut of prospect Ethan Salas.

The Minnesota Twins have acquired catcher Diego Cartaya from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for minor league right-hander Jose Vazquez. This move comes after Cartaya, once a top catching prospect, was designated for assignment due to his struggles and the Dodgers' depth at the position, featuring All-Star Will Smith and up-and-coming catcher Dalton Rushing.

At 23, Cartaya's recent performance has been underwhelming, hitting .221 with 11 home runs and 52 RBIs across 95 games last season in the minors. His earlier promise, highlighted by being named the Dodgers' minor league player of the year in 2022, has faded as he faced challenges at higher levels of play. The Twins now have four catchers on their 40-man roster following this acquisition, indicating their commitment to reviving Cartaya's career.

The Seattle Mariners are gearing up for the MLB Winter Meetings, scheduled for December 9-12 in Dallas, focusing on filling gaps at first, second, and third base with a budget of $15-20 million.

With a strong farm system and pitching rotation, they have assets to trade for an upper-tier infielder. The market for catchers is limited, which could make backup catcher Mitch Garver a trade candidate despite his recent struggles. Seattle aims to either secure a starter in the infield or free up funds through potential trades.