### MLB Teams Scramble to Meet 40-Man Roster Deadline Ahead of Rule 5 Draft

With the MLB Rule 5 Draft looming, MLB teams faced a critical deadline on Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET to solidify their 40-man rosters. This annual task involves protecting eligible players from being selected by other teams during the upcoming draft on December 11. Players who signed their first professional contract at 18 years old or younger and have completed five seasons, or those who signed at 19 years old or older and have completed four seasons, are eligible if left unprotected.

Several noteworthy players have been added to the 40-man rosters of various teams. In a significant move, the Oakland Athletics included right-handed pitchers Gunnar Hoglund and Ryan Cusick, along with outfielder Denzel Clarke. Hoglund, a 2021 first-round pick, posted a solid performance in Double-A Midland before a brief stint in Triple-A. Despite undergoing Tommy John surgery, he showed promise with a 91-93 mph fastball and an improved slider. Cusick, another first-rounder, transitioned to a bullpen role where his performance improved, showcasing a 95-97 mph fastball. Clarke, ranked as the No. 9 prospect for the A's, showed a resurgence in the latter half of the season, hinting at his potential despite initial struggles.

The Atlanta Braves added right-handed pitcher Rolldy Muñoz to their roster. Known for his powerful upper-90s fastball and sharp slider, Muñoz struck out nearly 35% of batters in 2024 but needs to work on his command to secure a relief role next season.

In a strategic move, the Baltimore Orioles protected right-handers Kade Strowd and Brandon Young. Strowd, despite some struggles at Triple-A, has a promising cutter and could have been an intriguing Rule 5 pick. Young, the Orioles' No. 19 prospect, boasts a repertoire of five pitches and aims to secure a spot as a back-end starter.

The Boston Red Sox fortified their roster with right-hander Hunter Dobbins and outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia. Dobbins, who reached Triple-A for the first time this season, offers rotation depth with his diverse pitch arsenal. Garcia emerged as a power-hitting outfielder, hitting 23 home runs across three levels, although his aggressive approach at the plate remains a question mark.

The Chicago Cubs made a clear decision by adding outfielder Owen Caissie and shortstop Ben Cowles. Caissie, who has shown significant improvements since being acquired from the Padres, is one of the Cubs' top prospects. Cowles, acquired from the Yankees, offers strong contact hitting and defensive versatility, making him a valuable utility infielder.

The White Sox included third baseman Colson Montgomery and right-hander Juan Carela. Montgomery, despite underperforming in Triple-A, showed potential in the Arizona Fall League. Carela, who pitched to a 3.71 ERA in Double-A, possesses good command of his sinker-slider combination.

Finally, the Cincinnati Reds added right-hander Luis Mey and outfielder/second baseman Tyler Callihan. Mey, known for his 100-102 mph fastball, made strides in control this year and excelled in the Arizona Fall League. Callihan, after a solid season between Double-A and Triple-A, looks to secure a bench role amidst rising competition.

As teams finalize their rosters, the stage is set for the Rule 5 Draft, where unprotected players could find new homes and opportunities to showcase their talents in the major leagues.