MLB Free Agency Updates: Juan Soto heads to Mets; Dodgers add all-star Michael Conforto and re-sign Blake Treinen in two-year deal to fortify ranks
It has been extremely busy in MLB as even before the winter meetings officially started, insiders have announced that several teams have already acquired familiar names to bolster their lineups.
The biggest splash was made by the New York Mets when they signed New York Yankees' star outfielder Juan Soto. Soto finished third in the American League MVP voting, hitting 44 home runs, and played a crucial role in the Bombers' return to the World Series for the first time since 2009.
"Breaking: Juan Soto and the New York Mets are in agreement on a 15-year, $765 million contract, sources tell. It is the largest deal in professional sports history," @ESPN tweeted.
Having swapped the famous pinstripes of the Bronx for the one in Queens, Soto returns to the National League and will face stiff competition from Shohei Ohtani and the LA Dodgers, Bryce Harper and the Philadelphia Phillies and his former team, the San Diego Padres.
Soto's free agency move broke Shohei Ohtani's $700 million contract with the Dodgers last season and once again placed MLB on the front page of American sports news.
Dodgers make quick moves in MLB free agency
The LA Dodgers wasted no time amid the record-breaking Juan Soto news to the Mets. They added depth to their outfield as they landed the signature of former All-Star Michael Conforto.
"Dodgers, OF Michael Conforto reportedly agree to deal, per MLB.com's @Feinsand," @MLB tweeted.
Conforto spent six and a half seasons with the New York Mets to start his career. After a brilliant 2017 season, he was named to the NL All-Star team. In addition, he was named to the 2020 All-MLB second team after shining in the pandemic-shortened season with a .322/.412/.515 with an OPS of .927 and nine home runs and 31 RBIs in 54 games.
He missed the entirety of the 2022 season due to an injury but signed a two-year $36 million deal with the San Francisco Giants that recently ran its course. Conforto is a welcome addition to the Dodgers' outfield that features converted outfielders such as Mookie Betts, Gavin Lux and Tommy Edman.
Another massive addition to the team is the return of bullpen hero Blake Treinen. The reliever re-signed for two more years worth $22 million.
"Right-handed reliever Blake Treinen and the Los Angeles Dodgers are in agreement on a contract, sources tell ESPN," Jeff Passan wrote.
With the Dodgers' woes in starting pitching, Dave Roberts sent out bullpen committees to finish games. Treinen played a starring role in the 2024 postseason, particularly in the World Series where he was put in clutch situations. The reliever repaid Roberts' trust by claiming two wins in the Fall Classic and was a vital arm on the mound.
Treinen will now reunite with bullpen-mates Anthony Banda, Alex Vesia and Brusdar Graterol in hopes of defending their crown.