MLB Winter Meetings - Rule 5 - Juan Soto Effect

The Scott Boras Effect & Player DisadvantagesJuan Soto's Big Contract and the Gambling Industry Influence on SalariesWhy Soto Chose the MetsSteve Cohen's Impact on the Mets and MLBMark shares a conversation with Lou Schiff about Steve Cohen's ownership, with Lou wishing Cohen owned every MLB team for his commitment to winning and willingness to spend money.Mat reflects on how Cohen’s approach contrasts with other owners, driving the Mets to become true championship contenders.The Blue Jays and Their MisstepsBlue Jays for focusing on signing Juan Soto instead of solidifying their system by locking down Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and building a competitive roster.Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s potential departure, especially if the Jays don’t show more commitment to winning.Will White Sox be sold to a Montreal-based ownership groupVladdy Guerrero Jr. could find a home with the AngelsMLB Spring Training and player signingsThe influence of gambling on MLB contractsThe rivalry between the Mets and YankeesSteve Cohen’s impact on the Mets' financial commitmentThe Blue Jays' struggles to build a competitive teamPotential future for Vladimir Guerrero Jr.Blue Jays never have exceeded the luxury taxShould have forgottend Soto and signed Max Fried & Willy AdamesWill Bo Bichette & Vlad Jr stick aroundBlue Jays pitchers are aging$23 million a yearShould have considered Ketel Martinez and saved 7 million more to 2nd baseman Andrés GiménezWill Vladdy Jr continue to stay with the Blue JaysMontreal baseball expanded franchise – could that be a future home for VladdyRed Sox & No Soto – decisions to be made – Rafael DeversThe Rangers have a deep roster including Nate EovaldiPeek over the fence with Rule 5Orioles brought in Gary Sanchez & Tyler O’NeillWill Orioles bring back Teoscar Hernandez to their young teamTrevor Rogers the best LHP for the Blue JaysAL East – what it will look like in 2025Shane McClanahan will be returning to the Tampa Bay RaysHow Rule 5 gives a lot of players into the show who otherwise may not rise up on their current teamAnthony Santander was lifted up years ago on Rule 5If you return a player you took from Rule 5 then original team must pay you 50K to get them backRays in Rule 5Bring in the Hammer – Dan Hammer from the Orioles & Jake BrentzRays are committed to keeping open spaces for the guys that they may bring back up including Carson Williams, Chandle Simpson, Ahmed RosarioSeiya Suzuki could anchor the Rays outfield - $19 million a yearThe Return of Tony Francona – now with the Cincinnati Reds 46: - Caitlin Clark – WNBA – Basketball Card – more than annual salaryDr. Leslie Heaphy, IWBC, on the Cooperstown, Hall of Fame Eras committeeExpansion teams by 2030?  Montreal already vetted by MLB – Would Stephen Bronfman show same commitment as a Steve CohenMontreal government is spending $870 million on a new roof for their stadium – should they buy an existing franchise or be part of the expansion – maybe White Sox or A’sMontreal, Salt Lake City, NashvilleThe Angels – Ron Washington – supports and builds his players and holds them accountableRon wants hungry players that are teachableBring us a healthy season for Mike TroutJust a reminder you can find Mat at  M-A-T-G-E-R-M-A-I-N dot bsky social. That’s @matgermain.bsky.social  or Mark at @baseballbizondeck.bsky.socialSpecial thank s to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward