Red Sox Push for Soto | Blind Rankings: Worst Trade Hypotheticals | Kikuchi to Angels | Royals-Reds Trade | 42

Welcome to Episode 42 of Tablesetters! Before we dive in, a quick note: this episode was recorded before Blake Snell signed a 5-year, $182 million deal with the Dodgers on Tuesday night, so we’ll save our thoughts on that blockbuster for next time!

This week, Devin and Steve break down the Red Sox’s aggressive offseason plans. Boston is making a strong push for Juan Soto, while also targeting top free agents like Corbin Burnes and Max Fried, and considering a potential infield shuffle with Willy Adames. The Sox are serious about competing in 2025, but will Soto be their cornerstone? Devin has fun with the drama, pointing out how Soto is trolling the baseball world with cryptic moves.

We then dive into a major trade between the Royals and Reds, with Kansas City sending Brady Singer to Cincinnati for Jonathan India and Joey Wiemer. The Reds strengthen their rotation, while the Royals get two young, versatile players to help fuel their rebuild. We also discuss the Angels' signing of Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year, $63 million deal, hoping the lefty can stabilize their rotation for a 2025 playoff push.

In other news, we look at notable non-tenders like Dylan Carlson and Nick Madrigal, who could be looking for fresh opportunities. Meanwhile, Walker Buehler turns down interest from the A’s, citing concerns over their temporary home in Sacramento.

We also talk about KBO star Hyeseong Kim, who’s set to enter the MLB market via the posting system, drawing attention for his elite contact skills, speed, and defense.

For a fun twist, Devin and Steve tackle some of the worst trade ideas they've seen on Twitter in this week's Blind Rankings. And speaking of wild ideas, we discuss whether the 4th of July could become baseball’s version of Thanksgiving—an annual tradition to make baseball the go-to sport for America’s birthday.

Plus, we answer mailbag questions on budget free agents and when the first domino of the offseason will fall, and reflect on what we’re thankful for in the baseball world this year.

Don’t miss this jam-packed episode—grab your headphones and join the conversation!

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