The hot stove season has been in full swing for about a month, and the first free agent has already been signed. The Los Angeles Angels, as they often do during this offseason, reached an agreement with starting pitcher Yusei Kikuchi for a three-year deal worth $63 million. This signing has sparked a lot of discussion among baseball fans and analysts alike. In this episode of the Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman delve deep into the details of this surprising deal and explore why it could be a positive move for the Angels. With the possibility of a third Wild Card spot, the Angels may stand to benefit from this addition to their roster. While the team may not be finished making moves, this deal gives fans hope that they are serious about competing in 2025.

Stay Updated on Baseball's Hottest Deals with Baseball Bar-B-Cast

Angels Sign Yusei Kikuchi

The signing of Yusei Kikuchi by the Los Angeles Angels has sent shockwaves through the baseball world. This move not only brings in a talented starting pitcher but also adds depth to the Angels' rotation. Kikuchi's experience and track record make him a valuable addition to the team. His ability to command the strike zone and keep hitters off balance will be crucial as the Angels look to improve their performance on the mound. This signing also shows the Angels' commitment to building a competitive team and gives fans something to look forward to in the upcoming season.The Angels' decision to sign Kikuchi was likely influenced by their need for a reliable starter. With the uncertainty surrounding the team's rotation, having a proven pitcher like Kikuchi gives them a sense of stability. His presence on the mound will provide the team with an extra weapon and could potentially lead to more wins. Additionally, Kikuchi's leadership and work ethic are qualities that the Angels value, and he is expected to have a positive impact on the team both on and off the field.

Scott Boras Scoreboard—Juan Soto Update

The Juan Soto sweepstakes have been a hot topic in baseball lately, and the guys on the Baseball Bar-B-Cast provide an update on the latest developments. They discuss which teams they think are out of the running and whether the process could become meaningless if Steve Cohen is willing to offer a blank check. This is a crucial aspect of the offseason as teams vie for the services of one of the game's top young stars. The guys analyze the various factors at play and offer their insights into how the Soto situation could unfold.While some teams may be priced out of the Soto race, others are still in the running and are willing to make significant offers. The competition for Soto is fierce, and it will be interesting to see how the negotiations play out. The Baseball Bar-B-Cast provides a unique perspective on this story, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the negotiations and the strategies of the different teams involved. Whether Soto ends up with a new team or stays put, this saga is sure to have a significant impact on the baseball landscape.

BBQ Mailbag

In this section of the Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman open up the BBQ Mailbag to answer listener questions. Fans have been sending in their queries about a variety of topics related to baseball, and the guys do their best to provide thoughtful and informative answers. From trade rumors to player evaluations, the BBQ Mailbag covers it all.This is a great opportunity for fans to get their questions answered and to engage with the hosts of the show. The guys take the time to listen to each question and provide detailed responses that are based on their knowledge and experience. Whether it's a question about a specific player or a general baseball-related issue, the BBQ Mailbag offers valuable insights and perspectives.

Reds-Royals Trade

The trade between the Cincinnati Reds and the Kansas City Royals is another topic that the Baseball Bar-B-Cast delves into. The guys discuss the details of the trade and analyze how it could impact both teams. They look at the players involved and assess whether the trade was a good move for each team.Trades like this one are often a sign of a team's rebuilding efforts or their attempts to improve their roster. The Reds and Royals are both in different stages of their respective rebuilds, and this trade could play a significant role in their future success. The Baseball Bar-B-Cast provides a detailed analysis of the trade and offers insights into the thought processes behind it.

Non-tender Roster Updates

The non-tender deadline is an important event in the baseball offseason, and the guys on the Baseball Bar-B-Cast keep fans updated on the latest roster moves. They discuss which players were non-tendered and what it means for their futures. This is a crucial time for teams as they make decisions about their rosters and try to set themselves up for success in the upcoming season.The non-tender process can be a tricky one, as teams have to balance their financial obligations with the need to build a competitive team. The Baseball Bar-B-Cast provides valuable insights into the non-tender decisions and offers analysis of the players who were affected. This helps fans stay informed about the latest developments in the baseball world and gives them a better understanding of the teams' strategies.

Remembering Rico Carty

In this final section of the Baseball Bar-B-Cast, Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman take a moment to remember 1970 National League batting champ Rico Carty. They share some of his greatest moments and highlight his impact on the game. Rico Carty was a beloved figure in baseball, and his legacy lives on.Remembering players like Rico Carty is an important part of the baseball experience. It allows us to pay tribute to the greats of the past and to appreciate the history of the game. The Baseball Bar-B-Cast provides a heartfelt tribute to Rico Carty and reminds us of the importance of his contributions to baseball.Follow the show on X at @CespedesBBQFollow Jake @Jake_MintzFollow Jordan @J_Shusterman_Watch this full episode on YouTubeCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts