As the holiday season kicks off, the MLB free agency market remains relatively quiet, leaving fans and teams in anticipation of the upcoming offseason moves.
The day after Thanksgiving is often filled with leftovers and relaxation, as families recover from their feasts and enjoy a long weekend. In the world of Major League Baseball, this holiday weekend also marks a lull in the offseason action. While executives and players take time to assess the market and spend time with loved ones, fans eagerly await the flurry of trades and free agent signings that will shape their teams for the upcoming season. As the weekend unfolds, the slow burn of MLB free agency leaves fans wondering when the hot stove will truly ignite.
A Slow Start to the Offseason
The MLB offseason is still in its early stages, and so far, only three of FanGraphs’ Top 50 free agents have signed contracts. The Philadelphia Phillies secured pitcher Aaron Nola, ranked fourth on the list, with a seven-year deal. The St. Louis Cardinals added Kyle Gibson, ranked 25th, on a one-year contract. The Atlanta Braves signed veteran right-hander Reynaldo López, ranked 37th, to a three-year pact. While these signings provide some excitement for fans, the majority of teams and players are still assessing the market, resulting in a lack of significant activity across the league.
Orioles and the Waiting Game
The Baltimore Orioles, like many other teams, have yet to make any major moves in free agency. As fans eagerly anticipate the team’s next steps, they can find solace in articles highlighting reasons to be thankful for the Orioles’ past successes and potential for the future. From reaching the top of the AL East to the promising young talent in the organization, there is much for Orioles fans to be grateful for this Thanksgiving.
A Time for Reflection and Assessment
The holiday weekend provides a valuable opportunity for teams and players to reflect on the past season and assess their needs for the future. While fans may be eager for their teams to make big moves, it is important to remember that the offseason is a strategic process that requires careful consideration. Executives and players alike are analyzing the market, evaluating their options, and determining the best course of action to improve their teams for the upcoming season.
The Birthdays and History of the Orioles
As fans celebrate their own birthdays on November 24th, they can also commemorate the birthdays of former Orioles players. Former right-hander Ben McDonald, who was the Orioles’ first-ever #1 overall draft pick, turns 56 today. Other former Orioles born on this day include lefty Damian Moss, right-hander Fred Beene, and the late outfielder Jim Northrup. Additionally, on this day in 1982, Cal Ripken Jr. was named AL Rookie of the Year, a reminder of the impact young players can have on a team’s success.
A Parallel Between Ripken and Henderson
The Rookie of the Year award holds a special significance in the baseball world, and on this day in 1982, Cal Ripken Jr. received the honor. Interestingly, Ripken’s rookie season shares similarities with Gunnar Henderson’s recent Rookie of the Year campaign. Both infielders split their defensive work between shortstop and third base, hitting 28 home runs and displaying impressive offensive production. As Henderson’s career unfolds, fans hope he can emulate the success of Ripken and become a cornerstone player for the Orioles.
Conclusion: As the Thanksgiving weekend unfolds, the slow burn of MLB free agency continues. While fans may be eager for their teams to make big moves, it is important to remember that the offseason is a strategic process that requires reflection, assessment, and careful consideration. As the hot stove gradually heats up, fans can anticipate the excitement and anticipation that comes with the flurry of trades and free agent signings that will shape their teams for the upcoming season.
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