The MLB offseason is reaching a critical juncture as players and teams prepare for the upcoming spring training. With the report date for pitchers and catchers set for February 10, several high-profile free agents remain unsigned, including Alex Bregman. Among the intriguing stories is Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old right-handed pitcher, who has narrowed his options to three teams: the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and Toronto Blue Jays. Sasaki is expected to make his decision by January 23, following the opening of the international free agency window.

Previously, the Chicago Cubs were reportedly eliminated from contention for Sasaki's services. The talented pitcher, recognized as the most skilled player outside of an MLB organization, has drawn attention due to his impressive statistics and potential to be an immediate impactful starter. Despite injuries limiting him to just 33 starts in the last two seasons, his showing in Japan's NPB, where he recorded a 2.35 ERA and 129 strikeouts last season, underscores his capabilities.

As the market for Sasaki intensifies, other teams such as the New York Yankees, New York Mets, San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers have been informed they are out of the running. The Yankees' current rotation boasts notable names like Gerrit Cole and Max Fried, while the Mets are relying on pitchers led by Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga. The Giants, following the signing of Justin Verlander, have also seen their hopes dashed. The Blue Jays have recently hosted Sasaki for discussions about a potential signing, while the Padres also remain heavily involved in his pursuit.

Sean Manaea is returning to the New York Mets on a significant three-year, $75 million contract. The left-handed pitcher had a standout season, achieving a 12-6 record and a 3.47 ERA in 32 starts, solidifying his role as the team's top starter.

After declining a player option and a qualifying offer, Manaea's reunion with the Mets comes as they aim to strengthen their rotation, having already signed several key free agents this offseason.

Sean Manaea is set to return to the New York Mets on a lucrative three-year, $75 million deal. The left-handed pitcher, who will turn 33 in February, had a solid 2024 season with a 3.47 ERA and 184 strikeouts in 32 starts.

Manaea's recent success can be attributed to adjustments made to his pitching mechanics, inspired by Chris Sale. Despite concerns about his age, he is expected to contribute quality innings to the Mets' rotation alongside other notable pitchers.

Griffin Canning has joined the New York Mets on a one-year deal, providing depth to their revamped pitching rotation.

After a challenging 2024 season with the Los Angeles Angels, where he recorded a 6-13 record and a 5.19 ERA, Canning was traded to the Atlanta Braves but was soon released.

Despite his struggles, he brings experience, having pitched in 94 games over five seasons, including a Gold Glove award in 2020.

The New York Mets have secured right-hander Griffin Canning on a one-year contract worth $4.25 million, pending a physical examination. The deal includes $1 million in potential performance bonuses.

Canning, 28, previously played five seasons with the Los Angeles Angels before being traded to the Atlanta Braves, who later non-tendered him. He had a challenging season in 2024, finishing with a 5.19 ERA and leading the American League in earned runs allowed.

This signing marks the Mets' third addition of a starting pitcher this offseason, following Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes.