Tigers Lock Down Pagán on One-Year Deal

The Skinny: Detroit inked veteran righty Emilio Pagán to a one-year pact—terms still under wraps, but the pen just got a 95-mph fastball closer with a 3.22 ERA over the last three seasons. Physical’s the last hurdle, and if he clears it, the Tigers bullpen goes from shaky to shutdown overnight.

Seager Trade Chatter: Rangers Playing with Fire

The Word: Texas is kicking the tires on moving Corey Seager. Sources say the ask is steep—think two top-100 prospects plus a controllable starter—but the Rangers front office is staring at a $35M AAV albatross through 2031. If Arte Moreno’s new Angels brain trust blinks, Seager could land in Anaheim before the GM meetings wrap.

Angels Cast Wide Net for Baseball Ops Boss

The Play: Moreno’s group is interviewing everyone from ex-GMs to analytics gurus to former players. Names floated: A.J. Preller, Kim Ng, even Theo Epstein. The job pays $5M+ and comes with a mandate: win now or else. Top candidate list drops by Friday.

Skubal Steals the Spotlight in Orlando

The Buzz: Tarik Skubal’s name is on every exec’s lips as the GM meetings open. The 27-year-old lefty just posted a 2.89 ERA, 280 Ks in 180 IP, and he’s under team control through 2028. If the Tigers shop him—which they swear they’re not—bids start at four blue-chippers and climb fast.

Quick Hits

• Clase-Ortiz Judge Flunks Baseball 101: Respected jurist asked if Detroit and the White Sox are the same team. Courtroom erupted; legal team facepalmed.
• Ben Brown Goes Under Knife: Cubs’ 6’6” righty needs neck surgery; timetable TBD, but the 25-year-old was slated for a rotation spot in April.
• Arozarena Market Heats Up: Rays outfielders are flying off the shelf; Randy’s name is linked to the Giants, Mets, and Dodgers. One-year rental or multi-year deal—either way, expect a bidding war.
• Bob Boone (1947-2026): The iron-man catcher who bridged Bench and Jeter passed at 79. Phillies plan a pregame tribute at Citizens Bank Park next Opening Day.