The general manager meetings are in the rear-view mirror, which typically means MLB's offseason is getting closer to the fireworks factory. This year, the winter is, at least, drawing closer to a potential lockout stemming from the expiration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. That possibility is still a few weeks out, however, and so the rumors and transactions will continue to happen for a little longer.
Below, you can find a roundup of Sunday's most notable news and moves.
Marlins, Astros interested in Marte
The Marlins and Astros are two of "more than a half dozen" teams who have expressed interest in free-agent outfielder Starling Marte. The Marlins have reportedly submitted an offer to Marte's camp, according to sportswriter Barry Jackson, while the Astros have at least met with his representation over the past week, per Jon Heyman.
CBS Sports recently ranked Marte as the top free agent outfielder on the market. Here's what we wrote at the time:
Marte, who turned 33 in October, has now been a dynamic player for more than a decade. He can hit for average; he can get on base by virtue of being a hit-by-pitch magnet or (increasingly) by walking; he can deliver 40-plus extra-base hits; he can steal bases at volume and with efficiency; and, oh yeah, he can play a good outfield, especially in a corner. The only things Marte can't do are turn back the hands of time or guarantee that he won't miss time with a fractured bone because of one of those aforementioned hit-by-pitches. He's easily the best outfielder in the class.
The Yankees, Mets, and Phillies, among others, have already signaled their desire of adding Marte to their roster. There are always exceptions but, on paper, the Marlins would seem unlikely to be able to lure Marte back to Miami with the best offer based on the number of large-budget teams they're competing alongside.
