The first blockbuster move of the offseason took place Monday morning with the Atlanta Braves sending Jason Heyward to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for Shelby Miller. Heyward’s name had been thrown around as a potential trade chip, and it didn’t take long for a deal to be made. Atlanta also sent right handed pitcher Jordan Walden to the Cards, while they received Tyrell Jenkins in return.
Heyward brought about high expectations when he got the call-up to the big show at the age of 20, and he didn’t disappoint in his highly anticipated first major league at-bat, going yard off Carlos Zambrano for his first hit in the bigs. After that, Heyward didn’t quite live up to the hype, the plague of injuries didn’t help, and with no talks between him and the Braves, a trade was expected. The Cards are gaining a quality hitter and defensive outfielder, while the Braves are gaining a promising pitcher for their rotation in Miller, who went 10-9 with a 3.74 ERA in 2014.
Toronto reached an agreement with catcher Russell Martin Monday as well. The veteran signed a five-year $82 million deal with the Blue Jays. Martin put up some impressive offensive numbers this season, hitting .290 with 11 homeruns and 67 RBI with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Giancarlo Stanton’s mega-deal was finalized Monday. The slugger signed a 13-year $325 million contract extension with the Miami Marlins. This is the biggest contract signing in MLB history, and it goes to 24-year-old Stanton.
The Chicago Cubs have also emerged as an option for Jon Lester. The ace is testing the free agent market and has drawn interest from the Red Sox, Royals, Blue Jays, and now the Cubbies.
Another big name pitcher on the free agent market is Max Scherzer who has drawn interest from the New York Yankees.
Pablo Sandoval landed in Boston to meet with the Red Sox. Boston has shown serious interest in the third baseman and have the money to land him this offseason. The two sides are expected to meet Tuesday.
There was quite a bit to talk about in the baseball world, Monday. The first big trade of the offseason took place, and the biggest deal in MLB history was agreed upon. The rumors and deals really begin over winter meetings, but this offseason has already gotten off to an interesting start.