As the calendar flips to 2025, baseball fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming season. In this article, we’ll be discussing three significant storylines that will shape the sport in the coming year. From contract negotiations to player staffing, and team spending, these key points will have a lasting impact on the game.
1. Thielbar’s Terms to be Announced
One of the most notable developments heading into 2025 is the pending announcement of Caleb Thielbar’s contract terms with the Chicago Cubs. The 38-year-old left-hander signed a one-year agreement with the team, but the financial details have yet to be disclosed. Thielbar’s past performance has been impressive, with a 3.21 ERA over 130+ innings from 2020 to 2023. Given his age and previous success, it’s reasonable to expect him to perform above the major league minimum. The coming days should bring clarity on the terms of Thielbar’s deal, which will have a significant impact on the Cubs’ roster.
2. Players Stuck in DFA Dilemma
The 2024 season ended with several players stuck in DFA (Designated for Assignment) limbo, wondering what the future holds. A number of notable players, including Tyler Gilbert of the Phillies, Gray Kessinger of the Astros, and Sam Huff of the Rangers, are facing an uncertain fate. Over the next week, clubs will decide whether to waive or trade these players. Those who are granted minor league waivers can choose to decline the assignment, opting instead for free agency if they have at least three years of Major League Baseball service. This period of limbo will come to a close soon, and fans will see which players get a second chance to prove themselves.
3. Will These Teams Spend Money in 2025?
As the offseason winds down, it’s a question on everyone’s mind: which teams will become more active on the free agent market? According to MLBTR, only four clubs – the Mariners, Twins, Padres, and Cardinals – have yet to spend a penny on free agents. These teams finished above.500 last year, but appear to be facing significant cap constraints. With six weeks left before pitchers and catchers report to spring training, will these teams make a splash in free agency, or will they stick to their current rosters? The answer will have a major impact on the balance of power in the league.
FAQ:
Q: What is DFA limbo, and what happens to players who are stuck in this situation?
A: DFA (Designated for Assignment) limbo refers to players who are on the verge of being released by their team. During this time, the player is placed on waivers, and if no other team claims them, they can be traded or released.
Q: What are the circumstances under which a player can decline a minor league waiver assignment?
A: Players with at least three years of Major League Baseball service can decline a minor league waiver assignment and choose to go to free agency instead.
Q: Will we see any major moves from the teams that have yet to spend on free agents?
A: With six weeks left before spring training, it’s possible that these teams may make a splash in free agency. However, the lack of spending so far suggests that they may be hesitant to commit to more major league contracts.
Conclusion:
As the baseball world enters 2025, three storylines are set to dominate the conversation. From Caleb Thielbar’s contract negotiations to the DFA dilemma faced by several players, and the uncertainty surrounding team spending, these factors will shape the sport in the coming year. As the new season approaches, fans will be eagerly waiting to see how these storylines play out, and what impact they will have on the game.
