Meetings Ignite as Dodgers Nab Conforto, Red Sox Pursue Soto

As baseball’s annual winter meetings get underway in Dallas, the offseason market is buzzing with activity. The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a key signing, while the Boston Red Sox are planning major moves for both a superstar hitter and an ace pitcher. These early maneuvers signal a busy period of trades and free-agent deals that could dramatically alter the competitive balance of the league.

Dodgers Bolster Outfield with Conforto, Still Eyeing Hernández

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially entered the fray, signing veteran outfielder Michael Conforto to a one-year contract. The deal is reportedly worth $17 million, providing the team with a proven left-handed bat for their lineup.

Conforto, who will be 32 next season, spent 2024 with the San Francisco Giants. While his overall slash line was .237/.309/.450, his numbers on the road were significantly better, with a .253/.323/.530 split. This suggests he could thrive away from the pitcher-friendly Oracle Park. His career 120 OPS+ shows he has been a consistently above-average hitter for nine seasons.

However, the Dodgers may not be finished adding to their outfield. Reports indicate that the team is still interested in a reunion with Teoscar Hernández, who was a key part of their World Series victory last year. This pursuit shows the Dodgers’ commitment to building a deep and powerful offense.

Red Sox’s Ambitious Plan: Soto and a Pair of Aces

The Boston Red Sox are aiming for a transformative offseason, with their sights set firmly on acquiring superstar Juan Soto. But adding one of the game’s best hitters is just part of their ambitious plan to return to championship contention.

In addition to pursuing Soto, the Red Sox are in active discussions to sign a frontline starting pitcher. Their top two targets are Max Fried and Corbin Burnes, two of the most dominant arms in baseball.

Adding an ace like Fried or Burnes would provide a massive boost to a rotation that currently relies on younger talent. The Red Sox need a true top-of-the-rotation arm to lead their staff and solidify their playoff aspirations.

Trade Winds and Free Agent Intrigue

Beyond the major signings, several other high-profile players are at the center of offseason speculation. Free-agent outfielder Teoscar Hernández, fresh off a 33-homerun season with the Dodgers, has expressed a desire to stay in Los Angeles. However, he is also reportedly “intrigued” by the idea of playing for the Red Sox at Fenway Park.

The Red Sox are considering Hernández as a primary target if they are unable to sign Juan Soto. His decision is expected to come after Soto’s future is resolved, making him a major piece in the free-agent puzzle.

Meanwhile, the Arizona Diamondbacks attempted a blockbuster trade, offering pitcher Jordan Montgomery to the Chicago Cubs for outfielder Cody Bellinger. The deal has not gone through, but it highlights the Diamondbacks’ willingness to make a splash. Bellinger is set to earn $27.5 million next season, while Montgomery is owed $22.5 million.

Market Moves: Orioles Land O’Neill, Other Outfielders in Play

The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant addition, reportedly agreeing to a three-year contract with right-handed slugger Tyler O’Neill. This move strengthens their outfield and adds another power bat to their lineup.

Before signing O’Neill, the Orioles had shown interest in Randal Grichuk. Now that O’Neill is headed to Baltimore, Grichuk becomes a valuable option for other teams seeking outfield help. His performance last season with the Diamondbacks was solid, hitting .291 with 12 home runs.

Grichuk’s biggest asset is his ability to hit left-handed pitching. Last season, he was exceptional against southpaws:

• .319 Batting Average
• .386 On-Base Percentage
• .528 Slugging Percentage

This skill makes him an ideal platoon player or a strong right-handed bat off the bench for a contending team. As the winter meetings continue, expect more teams to inquire about his services.