The New York Mets are exploring options at first base, with Tampa Bay Rays' Yandy Díaz emerging as a potential target. Díaz, who has a proven track record with a career slash line of .288/.373/.433, is set to earn $10 million in the final year of his contract in 2025, with a $12 million club option for 2026. While Díaz is effective at getting on base, his defensive metrics have raised concerns, leaving the Mets to weigh their options carefully.

Meanwhile, first baseman Pete Alonso appears to be making progress in his negotiations with the Mets after a tumultuous weekend of public disagreements. Alonso's preference reportedly leans toward staying in New York, especially since he hasn't committed to the Toronto Blue Jays, who are also interested in him. The Mets are also considering trades for other first-base options, including Ryan Mountcastle and Spencer Torkelson, while continuing to bolster their bullpen.

Tampa Bay Rays President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander, has expressed confidence in the team's current roster, suggesting that no major external acquisitions will be necessary this offseason. Neander's comments, reported by the Tampa Bay Times, emphasize the potential for internal growth among players to enhance the team's offensive capabilities. He noted the importance of players taking significant strides forward or rebounding from previous seasons.

Neander pointed to several players, including Josh Lowe, who underperformed due to injuries, and Johnny DeLuca, who had a disappointing batting average. The Rays are optimistic about the contributions of top prospect Junior Caminero and Christopher Morel, who will have a full season after joining the team at the trade deadline. Additionally, the offloading of Isaac Paredes and Randy Arozarena has created room for other players to step up, leading to hopes of improved performances, particularly from Yandy Diaz, who is expected to increase his power numbers.

The Tampa Bay Rays successfully navigated salary arbitration for all seven of their eligible players, including pitcher Zack Littell, ahead of the deadline. Littell is set to earn $5.72 million in 2025, a significant increase from his $1.85 million salary in 2024, surpassing the initial projections of $4.8 million.

Since joining the team off waivers in 2023, Littell has transitioned from a career reliever to a reliable starter, achieving impressive statistics. In 2023, he recorded a 3.93 ERA and 7.4 strikeouts per nine innings over 14 starts. He improved in 2024, finishing with an 8-10 record and a 3.63 ERA in 29 starts, leading all Rays players with a 2.8 WAR.

The Seattle Mariners are in a critical phase as they approach the 2025 season, with Opening Day set for March 27. The team is actively seeking to fill gaps at second and third base, and they are also looking for a first baseman to complement Luke Raley. However, as of late December, they have not made significant progress in addressing these needs.

During the Winter Meetings, there was speculation about a potential trade involving veteran pitcher Luis Castillo and Boston Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas, but that deal did not materialize. The Mariners have since missed opportunities to secure other first base options such as Christian Walker, Carlos Santana, Josh Naylor, and Paul Goldschmidt, as well as second base candidate Gleyber Torres.

With a payroll cap of $16-20 million for 2025, the Mariners might have to turn to trade possibilities to solve their roster dilemmas. A possible avenue could be rekindling discussions with the Tampa Bay Rays regarding first baseman Yandy Diaz. Seattle had previously shown interest in Diaz before the trade deadline, and with Tampa Bay's interest in Mariners prospect Harry Ford, this could lead to a mutually beneficial deal.

Diaz is contracted for $10 million in 2025, with a club option for 2026, while fellow infielder Brandon Lowe is owed $10.5 million. The Mariners may consider moving Harry Ford, a top prospect who had a solid season in Double-A, as part of a trade package. Ford, who has been recognized as a top 100 prospect, could be key to addressing the Mariners' ongoing infield challenges.

The Seattle Mariners are feeling the pressure as free agency heats up, with their rivals making significant moves. The Houston Astros secured first baseman Christian Walker, while the New York Yankees added Paul Goldschmidt to their roster.

With both players off the market, the Mariners face challenges in finding a suitable first baseman and other infield positions. They may consider reuniting with veterans like Carlos Santana or Justin Turner, but options are dwindling.