Alonso Thinks He’s a Prince, Rooker’s $60M Extension, Lux Traded to Reds, & Dodgers Sign Hyeseong Kim | 51

Welcome to Episode 51 of Tablesetters! Devin and Steve are back with a jam-packed MLB offseason update, offering you the latest trade rumors, blockbuster signings, and strategic moves that are shaping the 2025 season. The winter's been buzzing with activity, and we've got all the inside scoop! Pete Alonso's free-agent future is a hot topic, with Scott Boras reportedly using Prince Fielder’s 9-year, $214 million deal as a benchmark for what Alonso might command. With interest from teams like the Blue Jays, the stakes are high—will Alonso get the payday he’s dreaming of, or is reality setting in? Meanwhile, the Blue Jays are reportedly nearing a 4-year, $80 million agreement with outfielder Anthony Santander, addressing a critical hole in their lineup. Will this move help push Toronto closer to contention? In Los Angeles, the Dodgers have been making bold moves, signing Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim to a 3-year, $12.5 million deal with a potential extension option. But that’s not all—after signing Kim, they’ve also sent Gavin Lux to the Reds in exchange for outfield prospect Mike Sirota and a Competitive Balance draft pick. The Dodgers are making moves to stay on top of the NL West, and we’re here for it! The Oakland A’s have also been busy, locking up Brent Rooker to a 5-year, $60 million extension with an option for a sixth year. With this deal, the A’s are signaling a long-term commitment to their future—are they finally turning the corner after years of rebuilding? On the pitching front, the Baltimore Orioles have bolstered their rotation, bringing in veteran right-hander Charlie Morton on a one-year, $15 million contract. Is that all that they plan to do? In New York, the Yankees made a major splash by signing Max Fried, but now they're looking to trade Marcus Stroman. With the Blue Jays rumored to be the frontrunners, could a return to Toronto be in the cards for Stroman? Elsewhere, the Padres are caught in a legal battle over ownership control, as a lawsuit following Peter Seidler’s passing puts the future of the franchise in question. Meanwhile, the Rangers have strengthened their bullpen with Chris Martin on a one-year deal, and the Royals have added Michael Lorenzen to their staff for one season at $7 million. And don’t forget, potential trade talks involving Luis Castillo are heating up, with the Mariners and Orioles both in the mix. Where will Castillo land, and what could this mean for both teams’ playoff hopes? We’ll dive into all these moves and more in today’s episode. Stay tuned for in-depth analysis and be sure to follow us for exclusive content on Instagram and X @TablesettersPod!