The Houston Astros probably aren’t in the running to re-sign free agent starter Framber Valdez. Much of it is about money.

Before the hot stove really starts to sizzle and Major League Baseball’s top free agents find new homes, here are the 10 biggest storylines worth tracking ahead of MLB ’s annual offseason extravaganza.

"The Twins do not anticipate moving center fielder Byron Buxton or right-handers Joe Ryan and Pablo Lpez, according to league sources briefed on their plans. Minnesota's goal is to keep those players, build around them and compete in 2026," Rosenthal wrote.

The Chicago Cubs might find Alex Bregman providing the offensive production they are looking for as a replacement for Tucker.

As Judge enters the offseason, he has continued to stand out as one of the league’s most prominent figures. On Friday, he received a prestigious honor when he was selected as a draw assistant for the FIFA World Cup, joining NFL legend Tom Brady, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and NHL legend Wayne Gretzky on stage.

Kyle Tucker, the offseason's No. 1 free agent, visited the Blue Jays' spring training complex in Dunedin, Fla., on Wednesday, reports FanSided. The visit indicates sincere mutual interest, though, as Sportsnet notes,

On Friday, the Marlins optioned pitcher Zach Brzykcy to Triple-A Jacksonville, per his MLB transaction log. Fish on First reported it as an outright. Either way, it gives the Marlins a little room on their 40-man roster, as the move brings them one below the limit.

The Major League Baseball Players' Association has gathered Arizona to discuss the future of the game and look ahead to a possible lockout next December