Yankees chase Bohm as Skubal market hits 5 bidders

General managers are rushing to finalize contracts in Las Vegas before a potential owner-imposed lockout begins on December 1. The Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations have not concluded, creating a deadline for teams to move assets. This urgency has driven intense activity during the current GM Meetings, which are serving as the primary hub for deal-making since the traditional Winter Meetings are expected to be canceled.

The New York Yankees are targeting third baseman Alec Bohm to address a weak spot in their lineup. General Manager Brian Cashman confirmed on Tuesday that the club is seeking an upgrade, citing the continued struggles of Ryan McMahon. Bohm, 30, had a difficult season with the Philadelphia Phillies but posted a career OPS+ of 101. His strong second-half performance helped offset a poor start, and the Yankees are reportedly willing to accept a decline in his defensive skills if he provides the necessary offense.

The competition for pitcher Tarik Skubal has intensified with the addition of a fifth team. The Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres had already expressed interest, but the Toronto Blue Jays have now joined the bid, according to the New York Post. Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes confirmed plans to meet with the ace. Mets executive David Stearns stated that his club is prepared to offer long-term contracts to pitchers if the circumstances align. Skubal may sign his next deal before the December 1 deadline.

San Diego Padres executive AJ Preller said Tuesday that the team intends to negotiate a new agreement with right-hander Nick Pivetta. The Padres recently declined Pivetta's club option, but they aim to bring him back for the 2027 season and potentially beyond. Pivetta had a standout 2025 campaign, though elbow issues limited him to just eight starts in 2026. His performance on the mound remained excellent during those appearances.

Trade inquiries are also swirling around Washington Nationals outfielder Dylan Crews. The Athletic reports that multiple teams have asked about the 24-year-old, who was the number two overall pick in the 2023 draft. Although Crews has not yet reached his full potential, his youth makes him an attractive asset. The Nationals have not ruled out a trade, suggesting a change of scenery is possible this winter.

The Seattle Mariners are evaluating options for their outfield lineup. The Seattle Times reports that the club may prefer to sign free agent Seiya Suzuki over retaining Randy Arozarena, their top performer last season. Both players will turn 32 in the 2027 season and delivered high-level production in 2026, making them comparable targets for the organization.

Baltimore Orioles President of baseball operations Mike Elias told reporters at the GM Meetings that the team is not planning a full teardown. Despite missing the playoffs in consecutive seasons and trading catcher Adley Rutschman, Elias indicated that key core players are unlikely to be moved. This suggests star shortstop Gunnar Henderson and other veterans will likely remain with the club through this offseason.