The 2026‑27 MLB offseason is already generating significant activity, with key players making contract decisions, teams listening to trade offers, and a Japanese pitcher entering the posting system.
Bo Bichette picks up player option
New York Mets infielder Bo Bichette has exercised his $42 million player option for the 2027 season, according to The Athletic. The 28‑year‑old also holds a second $42 million option for 2028. In his first year with the Mets, Bichette posted a .702 OPS with 18 home runs while transitioning from shortstop to third base. The Mets now have Bichette at third, Francisco Lindor at shortstop, and Marcus Semien at second base, though first base remains unsettled and Lindor could surface in trade talks.
Diamondbacks open to moving Ketel Marte
Arizona is expected to listen to offers for second baseman Ketel Marte, the Arizona Republic reports. The 33‑year‑old, who has full no‑trade protection, endured a down season in 2026 and went AWOL in August, leading to a restricted‑list placement. Manager Torey Lovullo noted it was the fourth consecutive year Marte missed a game without permission, a factor teams will weigh alongside his on‑field fit.
Seibu Lions to post Kaima Taira
The Seibu Lions announced they will make right‑hander Kaima Taira available to MLB clubs via the posting system. The 27‑year‑old, listed at 5‑foot‑8, posted a 1.36 ERA with 141 strikeouts over 146 innings in 2026 after moving from reliever to starter. Taira’s repertoire includes a mid‑90s four‑seam fastball, cutter, sinker, sweeper, slider, changeup, and splitter. He will have 45 days to negotiate once the posting becomes official.
Red Sox complete two minor trades
Boston opened the trading period by sending utility player Nate Eaton to the Athletics for minor‑league right‑hander Jareth Rayo. The A’s new president of baseball operations, Taylor Smith, previously worked in the Red Sox front office. Boston also traded infielder Tsung‑Che Cheng to the Detroit Tigers for cash. Both deals free up 40‑man roster spots; the Red Sox still need to create three more spots before a Monday deadline to activate seven players from the 60‑day injured list.
