Currently, the Major League Baseball (MLB) trade and free-agent markets are rather quiet, but a steady stream of rumors is keeping discussions lively. The task now is to evaluate these rumors and discern their potential implications. This analysis will employ a 'Buy or Sell' framework to assess various trade and free-agent rumors that have surfaced over the past week.

Cody Bellinger, having exercised his $27.5 million player option for 2025, is reportedly available on the trade market. While the Chicago Cubs had interest in retaining Bellinger last offseason, his performance took a dip in 2024, highlighted by a drop of 130 points in his OPS from the previous season. With Pete Crow-Armstrong in center field and Michael Busch at first base, Bellinger finds himself blocked at his most effective positions. The Cubs could explore trading Bellinger to diversify their offense and reinvest the savings in another hitter, possibly targeting Pete Alonso, who would fit well at designated hitter. However, the Cubs do not have an immediate financial need to move Bellinger, as their projected payroll for 2025 shows significant flexibility. Additionally, the trade value of Bellinger is in question, with estimates indicating a negative surplus value, complicating his trade prospects. Thus, as the Cubs weigh the situation, the recommendation leans toward selling.

Garrett Crochet could be another player on the move, with the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Los Angeles Dodgers identified as potential landing spots. The Chicago White Sox's GM, Chris Getz, appears to be seeking a package of prospects, preferably highlighted by a high-ceiling position player. The Red Sox and Orioles boast a range of prospects that could fit this criteria, while the Dodgers might center a deal around one of their emerging players. Handling Crochet’s anticipated trade will not be straightforward, as several other teams also express interest. However, with specific needs for a top starter, both the Red Sox and Orioles have the motivation to pursue a deal, making it a plausible buy situation.

Another intriguing rumor centers around Vlad Guerrero Jr., who may be trade bait for the Toronto Blue Jays if the team concludes they cannot extend his contract. Speculation suggests that an extension for Guerrero could demand a staggering nine-figure sum. As a first baseman who recently demonstrated his hitting prowess with over 30 home runs, Guerrero is valuable, yet the Blue Jays' disappointing season may prompt them to consider a trade if an extension becomes unlikely. Nonetheless, Toronto has not shown a desire to move Guerrero, as the team's executives have made clear their intent to retain controllable players.

The Minnesota Twins could also explore trading Carlos Correa, particularly given the franchise's transitional phase, catalyzed by recent organizational changes. Correa, at 30, lacks the long-term appeal for a team in a rebuilding mode, and trading him could save the Twins significant financial resources. However, there are hurdles; Twins executives have expressed no intent to trade Correa, who holds full no-trade protection and has expressed a fondness for Minnesota. Additionally, his recent injury concerns and limited games played may dampen interest from potential trading partners.

In free-agent discussions, Roki Sasaki has been a focal point, with the Los Angeles Dodgers viewed as a likely suitor. However, recent insights indicate that this may not hold as firm as initially thought, given the financial constraints of the Dodgers regarding their bonus pool. Sasaki's ability to command lucrative endorsements might be diminished in a crowded L.A. market alongside established stars. Interestingly, the San Diego Padres may pose a stronger threat, leveraging familiarity with Sasaki through existing players and conducting a proactive approach in free agency.

The Dodgers are also rumored to be pursuing top-tier free-agent pitchers, including Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell, and Max Fried, highlighting their intention to enhance their starting rotation. While the Dodgers possess ample financial resources, they must face competition from other teams with similar ambitions. The intricate landscape of these negotiations suggests that a multi-faceted strategy will be required to secure any of these players.

Finally, the New York Yankees' approach to the offseason may involve significant shifts, particularly if they cannot retain Juan Soto. With several alternative targets on the table, including players like Alonso and Bregman, the Yankees may look to rebuild around new acquisitions while simultaneously managing their financial commitment to existing contracts. The competitive landscape will challenge the Yankees as they navigate these decisions, making it essential for them to evaluate their options judiciously.