MLB‘s long-lasting labor peace seems to be sitting precariously on the edge of a cliff, with sources telling ESPN’s Buster Olney that teams will skip next week’s winter meetings if “sufficient progress” isn’t made in talks with the MLB Players Association.
While that’s unquestionably put some teams in a holding pattern when it comes to getting serious about making significant roster moves, it hasn’t silenced the rumor mill, which continues to churn out rumor and speculation on the trade front.
Over the past week, that chatter has revolved around a number of players, including a Gold Glove Award-winning outfielder, a former All-Star closer and a slugging second baseman.
Keep in mind these proposed deals are only ideas and speculation. Unless otherwise noted, there’s no indication any of them have actually been discussed.