Christmas is in the rear view mirror, meaning that trade talks and free-agent negotiations put on hold for the holiday are back on the front burner of the MLB Hot Stove. There's plenty to delve into and here are the three most intriguing rumblings from around baseball for December 29th.
Yankees Won't Deal Andrew Miller?
When the Yankees swung a deal for Cincinnati Reds closer Aroldis Chapman, it seemed like they might end up dealing reliever Andrew Miller. However, general manager Brian Cashman told ESPN that the club intention is to keep Miller. That would give the Yankees a loaded bullpen of Dellin Betances, Miller and Chapman. Of course, that could just be talk to help keep Miller's value high.
Two Favorites For Yoenis Cespedes?
The Chicago White Sox traded for Todd Frazier earlier this offseason and are now targeting outfield help.
Sources: #WhiteSox remain active in outfield market. Gordon, Cespedes among possibilities.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 29, 2015
Alex Gordon is better defensively than Cespedes, but would also cost the team a draft pick. Cespedes is two years younger and a better hitter, which could be why the White Sox are among the favorites for Cespedes.
Yoenis Cespedes market taking shape. Source: CWS & BAL emerging as leaders for now. LAA & SFG also in the mix with TX monitoring situation.
— Jesse Sanchez (@JesseSanchezMLB) December 29, 2015
The Orioles have a major need for a corner outfielder, but like the Giants, the price might be too steep. If the White Sox land Cespedes, that would remove another contender for the services of Gordon. That's exactly what the Kansas City Royals, who want Gordon to return, need.
Could The Reds Deal Joey Votto?
The Reds are in a full-on rebuilding mode, having already dealt Frazier and Chapman. They've tried to deal Brandon Phillips, although his no-trade clause is an issue. With the Reds dealing away player, CBS' Mike Axisa argues the team should trade away Joey Votto. He makes a strong argument, as a team rebuilding doesn't have much use for a 32-year old first baseman. Votto is among the best at his position and has the contract to prove it. The two teams Axisa mentions as possible fits are the St. Louis Cardinals and Toronto Blue Jays. Votto is from Toronto and he'd be an upgrade at first base.
Of course, there are issues in dealing Votto. A team that needs a first baseman can get a cheaper one in Chris Davis and Votto's massive contract limits his destinations. Votto also loves Cincinnati and might not want to waive his no-trade clause. Expect the Reds to look into dealing Votto, but for him to ultimately stay with the Reds.
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