Rumor roundup: Outfield market taking shape
Heyward's agreement with Cubs should lead to action on Gordon, others
The action continued the day after the Winter Meetings concluded as teams try to get some items checked off their wishlists before the holidays. Here are some of Friday's biggest rumors and rumblings:
Outfield market heats up
The Cubs made the biggest splash Friday, reportedly coming to terms on an eight-year, $184 million deal with top free-agent outfielder Jason Heyward.
Heyward's signing should pave the way for the rest of the free-agent-outfielder market to fall into place, with several notable names left unsigned, including Alex Gordon, Justin Upton and Yoenis Cespedes.
Video: Duquette on the impact of Heyward's reported deal
Not long after news of Heyward's deal with the Cubs broke, Gordon surfaced as potentially the next big domino to fall. USA Today reported Friday afternoon that the Cardinals will now "heavily pursue" Gordon after missing out on Heyward.
The San Francisco Giants, Kansas City Royals and Los Angeles Angels also are expected to be among the teams pursuing the top remaining outfielders.
Cubs seeking a rotation upgrade
The Cubs have been among the biggest players this offseason, and they may not be done yet. Chicago is reportedly exploring the trade market for another starting pitcher.
FOX Sports reported Friday that the Cubs have engaged in talks with the Padres about Tyson Ross and with the Indians about Danny Salazar and Carlos Carrasco. Outfielder Jorge Soler as well as infielder Javier Baez are among the rumored players Chicago may be offering in exchange.
The Cubs have already addressed their pitching staff this offseason, adding John Lackey, Rex Brothers and Adam Warren, but would still like to build more depth.
McGee drawing interest
Trade talks centered around Tampa Bay reliever Jake McGee have reportedly gained traction over the last few days, according to FOX Sports.
Video: NYM@TB: McGee strikes out the side in the 8th inning
McGee, along with fellow Rays reliever Brad Boxberger, has been the subject of frequent trade buzz this offseason. The Dodgers, whose trade for Reds' closer Aroldis Chapman hit a snag amid domestic violence allegations against the reliever, could be among teams pursuing McGee.
The 29-year-old southpaw has compiled a 2.77 career ERA with 26 saves and a 21-11 record through through six years (259 2/3 innings) with the Rays.
Cuddyer retiring
Michael Cuddyer may have played his final Major League game, as the 15-year veteran is reportedly planning to retire, a source told MLB.com's Anthony DiComo.
Video: NYM@CIN: Cuddyer plates two with double in the 3rd
Cuddyer, 36, is entering the final year of his contract with the Mets. It is not yet clear whether he will receive any of the $12.5 million owed to him in 2016.
Cuddyer batted .277 with 197 career homers through 1,536 games, earning two All-Star nods. He was the ninth overall selection by the Twins in the 1997 Draft, spending the first 11 years of his career with Minnesota before signing with the Rockies in 2011 and the Mets last winter.