The St. Louis Cardinals are nearing the completion of arbitration decisions for eligible players as they prepare for the 2025 season. The team is focused on reducing payroll, resulting in a mixed outcome for their players. Outfielder Lars Nootbaar emerged victorious in his arbitration case, securing a salary of $2.95 million, while Brendan Donovan lost his hearing and will earn $2.85 million, much less than he sought. With these hearings concluded, the Cardinals are now awaiting the decision on Andre Pallante's case.

Donovan's struggle is particularly notable given his importance to the franchise's future, raising questions about the team's reluctance to settle outside of arbitration. This situation echoes last year's arbitration with utility player Tommy Edman, who was later traded. Despite the current challenges, fans hope for a competitive team and are eager for owner Bill DeWitt Jr. to be more open to spending in free agency.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have been active in the offseason, recently acquiring right-handed pitcher Chase Shugart from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for fellow pitcher Matt McShane. The trade is contingent upon Shugart passing a physical examination. Shugart, hailing from Bridge City, Texas, showcased his pitching prowess in high school and later at the University of Texas, where he transitioned from relief to starting roles.

After being drafted by the Red Sox in 2018, Shugart faced challenges, including a 50-game suspension in 2019. Despite setbacks, he made his MLB debut in 2024. This trade marks the second deal for the Pirates this week, having previously acquired pitcher Brett De Geus from the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Boston Red Sox have made a significant move by acquiring catcher Blake Sabol from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for international signing bonus pool allocation. Sabol, who is 27 years old, has shown potential with a .313 batting average over 11 games with the Giants.

Though his major league career has seen him batting .243 with 13 home runs and 44 RBIs in 121 games, Sabol spent the majority of the 2024 season at Triple-A Sacramento. In order to accommodate Sabol on their 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated right-handed pitcher Chase Shugart for assignment.

The Boston Red Sox have made a strategic move by acquiring catcher Blake Sabol from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for international signing bonus pool allocation.

Sabol, 27, demonstrated potential by batting .313 across 11 games with the Giants, although he spent the majority of the 2024 season at Triple-A Sacramento. His major league career spans 121 games, where he holds a batting average of .243, with 13 home runs and 44 runs batted in. To accommodate Sabol on their 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated right-hander Chase Shugart for assignment.