Morning Briefing: Another Sad Day in Baseball

Picture courtesy of Baseball America

Unfortunately, another death in the baseball community happened yesterday as Boston Red Sox 17-year-old catching prospect Daniel Flores died due to complications from cancer. Our condolences go out to his friends, family and the Red Sox organization.

Latest MLB News

According to Jerry Crasnick, J.D. Martinez will be seeking a deal around $200 million for his next contract. Crasnick also reported that former Met Jay Bruce is looking for a five-year deal in the $80-90 million range.

The Texas Rangers have a leg up in the Shohei Otani race, according to Evan Grant.

Royals manager Ned Yost broke his pelvis falling from a tree stand. He’s currently being hospitalized and is expected to make a full recovery.

Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas was named AL Players Choice Award as Comeback Player of the Year. Ryan Zimmerman won the same award in the NL.

The Players Choice Award for Outstanding Player went to Giancarlo Stanton in the NL and Jose Altuve in the AL.

MLB has the full list of winners.

Latest Mets News

The Mets will make their bullpen the biggest priority this off-season, according to Mike Puma.

Latest NL East News

Chelsea Janes of the Washington Post reports that the Nationals have hired former Mets third base coach Chip Hale as their new bench coach.

Joe Frisaro of MLB.com writes about how impressed he is that Marcell Ozuna won a Gold Glove in his first year in left field.

Mark Bowman of MLB.com gives updates on the progress of Atlanta Braves prospects playing in the Arizona Fall League.

Marcus Hayes of Philly.com talks about the love Roy Halladay received in his brief tenure with the Phillies.

Latest on MMO

John Flanigan does an MMO Free Agent Profile for Neil Walker.

Rob Piersall answers an MMO Mailbag question regarding the potential Mets pursuit of Lorenzo Cain.