With the Winter Meetings just around the corner, the MLB offseason rumor mill continues to churn out intriguing speculation. Here's a look at the latest developments making waves in the baseball world.

Shohei Ohtani Set for Record-Breaking Contract
All eyes are on Shohei Ohtani as he is expected to sign a contract that could surpass $500 million, making it the richest deal in MLB history. ESPN's Jeff Passan reports that the two-way star's recruitment process has been secretive, but multiple teams remain in the bidding. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Angels are still considered strong contenders, while the Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets have shifted their focus to other players. Ohtani's deal is poised to shatter the record currently held by his former teammate Mike Trout.

Mets Eyeing Additional Rotation Help
The New York Mets have been active in bolstering their starting rotation, recently signing former Yankees right-hander Luis Severino to a one-year deal. However, their quest for pitching reinforcements isn't over yet. According to SNY's Andy Martino, the Mets are actively working to add more starters, intending to secure additional arms on one-year contracts. Jordan Montgomery is reported as the frontrunner among high-end options, ahead of Blake Snell and Eduardo Rodriguez. The Mets are also considered favorites to sign Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto, according to recent reports.

Rangers Prepare for Quieter Offseason
The defending champion Texas Rangers are expected to have a quieter offseason compared to previous years, according to general manager Chris Young. While they anticipate being active in free agency, the team does not plan to make top-tier signings. The Rangers' core remains intact for the upcoming season, and they have promising young outfielder Wyatt Langford waiting in the wings as a top prospect. However, they will bid farewell to lefty Jordan Montgomery, catcher/DH Mitch Garver, and relievers Aroldis Chapman, Will Smith, and Chris Stratton, who are set to enter free agency.

Yankees Claim Outfielder Gonzalez off Waivers
In other news, the New York Yankees have claimed outfielder Oscar Gonzalez off waivers from the Guardians, as reported by YES Network's Jack Curry. Gonzalez made headlines in the 2022 season with an impressive 125 OPS+, but struggled in 2023, posting a 53 OPS+ and only two home runs in limited plate appearances. The Yankees view Gonzalez as potential depth for their roster, given his options.

Orioles Target High-Leverage Relievers
The Baltimore Orioles are on the lookout for late-inning pitching, with their sights set on high-leverage relievers. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Orioles have shown interest in star relievers Josh Hader, Jordan Hicks, Craig Kimbrel, and Aroldis Chapman. Of these options, Hader appears to be the most enticing. The Orioles face the challenge of being without closer Félix Bautista for the entire 2024 season following his Tommy John surgery.

As the Winter Meetings approach, baseball fans eagerly await further developments and potential blockbuster moves in the ever-evolving MLB offseason.