MLB

Opting out didn't surprise anybody. 

Not the Los Angeles Dodgers decision-makers, not the team's fans, not the media that covers the organization and entire industry, not the man’s teammates, and not rival teams.

Hey, you there. Unnamed general manager. Word is you're interested in a blockbuster trade for Jose Fernandez.

Well, good luck convincing the Miami Marlins to do it. But if you can...well, let's just say you have the right idea.

From the sound of things, you'd think Robinson Cano is the worst baseball player, the biggest whiner and the most despicable human being ever.

In reality, he's not that bad of a guy. Or that bad of a player, really.

But if ever there was a time to acknowledge the honeymoon phase of his 10-year, $240 million contract with the Seattle Mariners is over, it sure seems like now.

The Miami Marlins are reportedly listening to offers from teams interested in trading for second baseman Dee Gordon, per Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe.

Continue for updates.

The Seattle Mariners announced on Monday they have signed veteran catcher Chris Iannetta to a one-year deal.

Contract terms weren’t disclosed, though Greg Johns of MLB.com indicated it's a major league deal:

Just two years into his massive 10-year, $240 million deal, second baseman Robinson Cano may already be devising an exit plan from the Seattle Mariners.  

Continue for updates.

The MLB winter meetings are just two weeks away, and the competitive landscape of free agency will likely make its biggest plays this offseason. 

Executives of all 30 teams will convene in Nashville, where the hot stove will reach its peak. 

With the MLB offseason in full swing, the hot stove seemingly provides us with a handful of new rumors to discuss on a daily basis.

At this point in the offseason, prior to the winter meetings, the bulk of the rumors revolve around players who could potentially be available on the trade market as opposed to free agents and where they might wind up signing.

Early in MLB's offseason, the rumor mill will run wild with possibilities. Some will foreshadow future maneuvers, but others will remain in "What if?" purgatory.

A general manager isn't doing his due diligence by hanging up on an inquiry. Even an untouchable superstar has his price if the other side is willing to overpay. Many speculated studs on the hot stove will stay put, but it's usually worth a conversation.

Managers love to talk about the flexibility of not having a full-time designated hitter. They can use the spot to give players rest, giving them in effect a half-day off. They can keep guys in the lineup when a minor injury may keep them from effectively playing in the field.

It's all true and it's all great, but there's a much better way to build an American League team:

Have a DH like David Ortiz.