Buster Olney, an ESPN Senior Writer, is known for his work on ESPN Magazine/ESPN.com and as an analyst/reporter for ESPN television. He is also the author of “The Last Night of the Yankee Dynasty”. Jeff Passan, from ESPN, is an MLB insider and the author of “The Arm: Inside the Billion-Dollar Mystery of the Most Valuable Commodity in Sports”. On December 5, 2024, at 07:00 AM ET, the MLB winter meetings began in Dallas, marking the start of baseball's offseason activity after a relatively slow first month. All eyes are on superstar outfielder Juan Soto, who is expected to sign by the end of the meetings or even before they start. Soto is not the only player seeking a huge payday; Pete Alonso, Willy Adames, Corbin Burnes, and Max Fried are among the other in-demand free agents looking for their next teams. The trade market is also heating up, with Chicago White Sox ace Garrett Crochet being one of the stars who could be dealt. Where will Soto sign? Which teams will land the other players in line for a nine-figure payday? And who is looking to make a blockbuster trade? Here is the latest information we have on the players, teams, and themes that will shape the meetings, starting with the one name everyone is watching.

When will Juan Soto sign and how will his free agency shape the meetings?

Juan Soto's free agency is a hot topic as the MLB winter meetings commence. His potential signing could have a significant impact on the entire event. Soto, a superstar outfielder, is in high demand. His skills and performance on the field have made him a valuable asset. Many teams are vying for his services, hoping to add him to their roster and boost their chances of success. The negotiations surrounding his signing are likely to be intense, with teams offering various contracts and incentives. Soto will have the opportunity to choose the team that he believes will provide him with the best environment and opportunities. His decision will not only affect his own career but also the dynamics of the teams involved. It could lead to shifts in the power balance of the league and set the stage for future seasons. As the meetings progress, the focus will remain on Soto and his potential signing. It will be interesting to see how his decision unfolds and how it shapes the future of baseball.The trade market is also expected to be active during the winter meetings. Teams are looking to make deals to strengthen their rosters and improve their chances of winning. Garrett Crochet, the Chicago White Sox ace, is one of the players who could be dealt. His talent and potential make him an attractive target for other teams. The trade talks involving Crochet could have a ripple effect on the league, as teams try to acquire valuable players and fill their needs. The winter meetings provide a platform for teams to explore trade opportunities and make deals that will impact their seasons. It is a time of excitement and anticipation as teams try to make strategic moves to improve their positions.In addition to Soto and Crochet, there are other in-demand free agents who could make significant moves during the winter meetings. Pete Alonso, Willy Adames, Corbin Burnes, and Max Fried are all players with high value and potential. Their signings or trades could have a major impact on the teams they join and the overall landscape of the league. The teams will be vying for these players, offering attractive contracts and packages to secure their services. It will be a competitive battle as teams try to build their rosters and compete for championships.Overall, the MLB winter meetings in Dallas are expected to be a busy and exciting time. The focus on Juan Soto's free agency, the trade market, and the other in-demand free agents will keep everyone on the edge of their seats. As the negotiations and deals unfold, we will get a better understanding of how the offseason will shape the future of baseball.