Mon Nov 24 19:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
Several MLB teams are actively pursuing pitching talent as the offseason progresses. The Detroit Tigers are considering converting reliever Ryan Helsley into a starting pitcher. The San Francisco Giants are interested in Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, who has been posted by the Saitama Seibu Lions. The Chicago Cubs are looking for a front-of-the-rotation starter, potentially through free agency or trade. Several free agent and trade options for starting pitchers are listed for the Cubs.
News Article:
MLB Hot Stove Heats Up: Tigers Eye Helsley as Starter, Giants Pursue Japanese Ace, Cubs Hunt Rotation Anchor
As Thanksgiving approaches, Major League Baseball teams are hustling to bolster their rosters before the holiday slowdown. Here’s a look at the latest buzz:
Tigers Consider Turning Reliever Helsley into Starter
The Detroit Tigers are exploring an unconventional route to improve their starting pitching, showing interest in signing reliever Ryan Helsley and converting him into a starter, according to The Athletic. Helsley, 31, has never started a major league game, but the Tigers believe he could follow the successful transitions of pitchers like Reynaldo López and Michael King. Despite some command issues, Helsley possesses a strong fastball and two above-average breaking pitches. The Tigers are seeking rotation help regardless of the future of ace Tarik Skubal.
Giants Join the Race for Japanese Pitcher Tatsuya Imai
The San Francisco Giants are among the teams vying for the services of Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai, reports MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. Imai, 27, was recently posted by the Saitama Seibu Lions and has until January 2nd to sign with an MLB team. He’s coming off a dominant season in Japan, showcasing a mid-90s fastball and a deceptive slider. The Giants, under new management, are actively seeking to strengthen their rotation for the future. Several other high-profile clubs, including the Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and Cubs, are also expected to be in the mix for Imai.
Cubs Still Hunting for a Frontline Starter
Despite recent additions of Shota Imanaga and Phil Maton, the Chicago Cubs are not done addressing their pitching needs. The team is actively seeking a front-of-the-rotation starter, potentially through free agency or trade, per The Athletic’s Sadahev Sharma. Possible free agent targets include Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, Michael King, Ranger Suárez, and Zac Gallen. The Cubs may also explore trades, with Marlins right-hander Edward Cabrera mentioned as a potential target. With Justin Steele expected to return in the summer, a solid addition would give the Cubs a formidable rotation.
The MLB offseason is sure to bring more updates as teams continue to jockey for position. Stay tuned for the latest news and rumors as they develop.
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