“Schwarber, Alonso Shine in Draft Lottery Opener”

The MLB Winter Meetings are underway in Orlando, and key player movements are expected. Two prominent names in discussions are Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso.

Schwarber’s Market Heat Up

Veteran slugger Kyle Schwarber remains a hot topic this offseason. While many speculate he may re-sign with the Philadelphia Phillies, interest from other teams is significant.

• Teams pursuing Schwarber include:
• New York Mets
• San Francisco Giants
• Baltimore Orioles
• Boston Red Sox
• Pittsburgh Pirates (with a four-year offer)
• Cincinnati Reds (Schwarber’s hometown team)

Experts predict that he may be the first major free agent to finalize a contract. His decision could trigger a ripple effect in the market, impacting negotiations for other players.

Alonso’s Free Agency Moves

Another player to watch is Pete Alonso. The New York Mets slugger is participating in the Winter Meetings, meeting potential suitors face to face.

• Teams looking to meet with Alonso include:
• Baltimore Orioles
• Boston Red Sox

Although the Mets have an established relationship with Alonso, quick decisions by Schwarber could boost Alonso’s market as teams seek additional power hitters.

2026 MLB Draft Lottery Insights

The fourth MLB Draft Lottery is set for today at 4:30 PM CT. Fifteen teams that did not make the playoffs will vie for a top-six selection in the upcoming 2026 draft.

• Notable exclusions:
• Colorado Rockies (after winning in the previous two drafts)
• Washington Nationals and Los Angeles Angels (due to revenue-sharing restrictions)

The Chicago White Sox have the best odds at 27.73% for the first overall pick. Historical data from prior lotteries shows that the odds do not always determine outcomes, as teams like the Guardians and Nationals have previously defied expectations.

This year’s lottery might bring significant changes within the top six picks. Teams with winning records, including the Houston Astros, New York Mets, and Kansas City Royals, still maintain an outside chance to secure a high draft selection.