The international signing period opened Thursday, and the San Diego Padres wasted no time making noise. They landed three players ranked among Baseball America’s top 100 international prospects-a clear signal that the organization is continuing to invest heavily in its future pipeline.
The headliner? Joniel Hernandez, a 16-year-old shortstop out of Cuba, who’s already drawing attention for his athleticism and versatility.
While he’s currently projected as a shortstop, scouts believe he could just as easily transition to center field thanks to his speed and instincts. At this stage, it’s all about projection, but the upside is real-and the Padres are betting big on it.
Joining Hernandez in the Padres’ international haul are Mexican right-hander Diego Serna and Curacao shortstop Timothy Mogen. Both are considered high-upside signings in their own right, and while the team hasn’t confirmed all reported deals just yet, it’s clear San Diego is taking an aggressive approach to international scouting and development. This is the kind of foundational work that might not pay off for a few years, but it’s how championship cores are built.
Yu Darvish Update: A Lingering Question for the Padres
Meanwhile, back on the big-league roster, the Padres are facing a more immediate concern: the future of Yu Darvish. The veteran righty underwent offseason surgery and won’t pitch in 2026.
That’s a major blow for a rotation that’s leaned heavily on his experience and elite pitch mix in recent years. At 37, Darvish’s future in San Diego-and possibly in baseball-is uncertain.
For now, the Padres will have to navigate the season without one of their most dependable arms, and how they fill that void could shape their trajectory in a crowded NL West.
Dodgers Land Another Star in Kyle Tucker
Elsewhere in the league, the Dodgers reminded everyone why they’re the gold standard of big-market aggression. Fresh off back-to-back World Series titles, they inked outfielder Kyle Tucker to a four-year, $240 million deal.
That’s a massive number, but Tucker brings a rare blend of power, plate discipline, and defensive value. He fits perfectly into a lineup already stacked with talent-and with L.A.'s track record of getting the most out of its stars, this move only widens the gap between them and the rest of the league.
Three-Team Trade Shakes Things Up
A three-team trade between the Rays, Reds, and Angels shuffled some notable names across the league. Josh Lowe is heading to Los Angeles, giving the Angels a much-needed injection of outfield speed and pop.
The Reds pick up lefty Brock Burke, who adds depth to a bullpen that’s been in flux. Tampa Bay, always savvy in these multi-team deals, ends up with infielder Gavin Lux and right-hander Chris Clark-two players with upside who could fit nicely into the Rays’ plug-and-play system.
The Reds weren’t done there. They also sent reliever Yosver Zulueta to Seattle in exchange for minor league pitcher Dusty Revis. It’s a classic prospect-for-prospect deal, with both teams hoping a change of scenery unlocks the next level.
Free Agency Watch: Bellinger, Bichette, and More
With Kyle Tucker off the board, the attention now turns to Cody Bellinger-the top remaining bat on the market. Talks with the Yankees have stalled, and that opens the door for other teams, especially the Mets, to make a run. New York missed out on Tucker, and Bellinger’s left-handed power and defensive versatility could be exactly what they need.
Bo Bichette, meanwhile, has been meeting with teams, including the Phillies. With Tucker now locked in with the Dodgers, Bichette’s market could heat up quickly. He’s one of the most consistent hitters available, and his ability to handle shortstop or slide over to second makes him a flexible fit for contenders looking to upgrade the middle infield.
Other Notable Signings
A few other moves flew under the radar but could prove meaningful:
- The Yankees added bullpen depth by signing reliever Paul Blackburn to a one-year deal.
- The Diamondbacks did the same with Taylor Clarke, who returns to Arizona on a one-year pact.
- The Rockies signed versatile utility man Willi Castro to a two-year deal, giving them a valuable switch-hitter who can play all over the diamond.
Kershaw and Bregman to Represent Team USA
And finally, while Clayton Kershaw may be done with MLB action, he’s not quite done competing. The legendary lefty will suit up one last time for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. It’s a fitting send-off for one of the game’s all-time greats.
Joining him will be Alex Bregman, who’s officially a Chicago Cub now. Bregman’s inclusion adds another veteran presence to a Team USA roster that’s shaping up to be loaded with talent and experience.
As the offseason continues to unfold, it’s clear the league is as active and unpredictable as ever. From blockbuster signings to under-the-radar trades, front offices are pushing hard to shape their rosters-and their futures.