MLB Baseball 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: November 2, 2026, 3:40 PM ET
Front Office Moves
The Astros formally introduced Randy Flores as the 15th general manager in franchise history on Monday, with owner Jim Crane calling him a "perfect fit" espn.com for the job. Elsewhere, the Cubs declined a $7.5 million option espn.com on pitcher Colin Rea, while the Orioles passed on a $20 million club option espn.com for outfielder Luis Robert Jr. for 2027.
Contract Decisions
The Red Sox exercised espn.com Garrett Whitlock's $8.25 million option for 2027 after a 7-2 season. The Rays picked up espn.com a $20 million option on ace Drew Rasmussen, and the Padres declined espn.com options on Nick Pivetta, Lucas Giolito and Griffin Canning while keeping Hart.
Free Agency and Offseason
Free agency is underway, and the latest rumors espn.com center on Tarik Skubal, with the Dodgers and Mets reportedly pursuing the ace. Japanese right-hander Kaima Taira will move to MLB espn.com after the Seibu Lions announced they would post him.
Awards and Honors
Christian Walker of the Astros and Matt Olson of the Braves each won their fourth Gold Glove espn.com at first base, and Red Sox first baseman Abreu earned his third. Dusty Baker, Bruce Bochy, Joe Maddon and Lou Piniella headline espn.com the retired managers on the Hall of Fame contemporary ballot.
Milestones and Tributes
Jerry Koosman, the All-Star left-hander who recorded the final out of the Miracle Mets' 1969 World Series win, died at 83 espn.com. Brewers fans turned out for the World Series parade, with the city honoring broadcaster Bob Uecker in a celebration espn.com that drew a huge crowd.
Legal Developments
The trial of Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz began in New York espn.com, where the two are accused of rigging pitches.
Coming Up
Jim Crane's Astros now turn to their new general manager's first offseason moves, and free agency will determine whether the Dodgers or Mets land Tarik Skubal espn.com.