MLB offseason buzz: Pete Fairbanks, Cody Ponce, and the Astros' Jake Meyers in the spotlight
The MLB offseason is heating up, with several key players and teams in the spotlight. Here's a breakdown of some of the latest buzz and potential moves:
Pete Fairbanks: The Next Closer?
With Ryan Helsley off the market, Pete Fairbanks is emerging as a top closer option. The Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Marlins are among the teams interested, according to industry sources. Fairbanks, who faced the Jays often during his time with the Tampa Bay Rays, boasts an impressive record against them, holding them to a .130 batting average and .468 OPS in 27 career innings. Fairbanks, turning 32 next month, is also familiar to Marlins president Peter Bendix, who worked with him in the Rays organization.
Cody Ponce: A Bargain or Overrated Return?
Cody Ponce, a right-hander who spent last season in Korea, is generating interest. However, industry sources suggest he might not be the bargain teams anticipated. Ponce is expected to command a three-year deal of at least $30 million, possibly exceeding $40 million. This follows the precedent set by Erick Fedde's $15 million deal with the Chicago White Sox. Despite his success in Korea, Ponce's performance in the MLB has been inconsistent.
Jake Meyers: A Center Fielder in Demand
The Houston Astros' Jake Meyers, who had a modest breakout last season, is drawing interest from several teams. Meyers, an excellent defender, is projected to earn $3.5 million in his final year of club control. The Astros are open to trading him for a controllable major-league starter. Teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, and Rays are exploring upgrades in center field, making Meyers a hot commodity.
Brandon Lowe: The Rays' Trade Dilemma
The Tampa Bay Rays are considering trading second baseman Brandon Lowe, who is set to earn $11.5 million in the final year of his contract. Lowe's performance has been impressive, with 31 home runs last season and an OPS+ 23% above league average. However, finding a suitable replacement for Lowe is challenging, as the Rays lack an obvious internal solution at second base.
** Marlins' Coaching Defections: A Sign of Progress?**
The Miami Marlins' coaching staff defections, including Derek Shomon, Tyler Smarslok, and Joe Singley, are seen as a positive sign of the organization's evolution. The Marlins' improvement from 62 wins in 2024 to 79 in 2025 has attracted attention from other clubs, indicating that their progress is being recognized by the industry.
