Major League Baseball's offseason rumor mill is beginning to churn after the Brewers' World Series victory last week. The next key date is November 17, when decisions on qualifying offers are due from eight players.
Astros to Interview Albert Pujols for Manager Role
The Houston Astros will interview three-time MVP and future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols for their managerial vacancy this week, according to The Athletic. New general manager Randy Flores is leading the search after the team moved on from general manager Dana Brown in August and fired manager Joe Espada following the 2026 season. Pujols has previously interviewed for openings with the Padres and Angels and managed the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. He remains in the fourth year of a 10-year, $100 million personal services contract with the Angels. Other known candidates include Rangers bench coach Luis Urueta, Yankees bench coach Brad Ausmus, and Triple-A Durham Bulls manager Morgan Ensberg.
Orioles Seek Pitching and Outfield Help via Trade
The Baltimore Orioles are willing to listen to trade offers on any player except first baseman Pete Alonso as they pursue starting pitching and outfield upgrades, per The Baltimore Banner. While not actively shopping players, the club recognizes trades as a path to improvement. With Alonso at first and Gunnar Henderson at shortstop, the Orioles have a surplus of infielders: Jackson Holliday, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Jordan Westburg, and Coby Mayo compete for two spots. Westburg and Encarnacion-Strand are under team control through 2029, Holliday through 2030, and Mayo through 2031.
Rays Exercise Option on Drew Rasmussen, Plan to Keep Him
The American League champion Tampa Bay Rays picked up the $20 million club option on All-Star starter Drew Rasmussen, a franchise-record single-season salary. Club president Erik Neander stated the intention is for Rasmussen to anchor the rotation in 2027. With Nick Martinez and Freddy Peralta heading to free agency, Rasmussen tops a rotation that includes Shane McClanahan, Griffin Jax, and Ryan Pepiot, though questions remain about each of those arms.
