Tue Jan 28 08:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Baseball Hot Stove: Bregman’s Return to Houston Likely, Padres Eyeing Trades, D-backs Seeking Late-Inning Relief

**PHOENIX, AZ –** With spring training just weeks away, MLB free agency and trade talks are heating up. Several key storylines are dominating the headlines:

**Astros Likely to Re-Sign Bregman:** The Houston Astros are strongly pursuing the return of veteran infielder Alex Bregman, even after reportedly trading reliever Ryan Pressly to the Chicago Cubs to create payroll space. While the team is reportedly offering a six-year, $156 million deal, Bregman is weighing other offers, including a six-year contract with a first-year opt-out clause from another team. The Astros’ acquisition of infielders Isaac Paredes and Christian Walker, and Jose Altuve’s willingness to move to the outfield, suggests a strong desire to bring Bregman back. As a contingency plan, the Astros are also reportedly interested in Jorge Polanco.

**Padres Considering Trades of Key Pitchers:** The San Diego Padres, facing internal changes and a shift in organizational priorities, are reportedly exploring trades for starting pitchers Dylan Cease and Michael King, both entering their final year of team control. Moving either pitcher would significantly weaken the Padres’ 2025 rotation, but the front office appears focused on other objectives.

**Diamondbacks Look to Bolster Bullpen and Lineup:** The Arizona Diamondbacks, already having made significant additions this offseason, are aiming to further strengthen their roster. General manager Mike Hazen is seeking a late-inning reliever, preferably a closer, and a right-handed hitter. A reunion with Randal Grichuk is a possibility, and several high-leverage free-agent relievers remain on the market.

**Orioles Sign Carlson to One-Year Deal:** The Baltimore Orioles have signed outfielder Dylan Carlson to a one-year, $975,000 contract with incentives. Carlson, who played for the Cardinals and Rays last season, will add depth to their outfield.

The coming weeks promise further developments as teams finalize their rosters before spring training commences.

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