MLB in brief: Kevin Kiermaier helps Oneil Cruz | Austin Hays in Chicago

Kevin Kiermaier assists Oneil Cruz

Great idea by the Pirates outfielder.

Good stuff by Colin tracking down Kevin Kiermaier. I'll continue to say it: I'm absolutely buying stock in Oneil Cruz this season. https://t.co/14803gTtNp

— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) January 31, 2026

Austin Hays in Chicago

The White Sox continue to add.

Austin Hays' deal with the White Sox, per source: $5M salary plus $1M buyout on mutual option, $375K in incentives based on plate appearances. Wanted chance to play every day.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 31, 2026

Reinforcements in Detroit?

A starting pitcher could be coming to town.

The Tigers could use another frontline starting pitcher and there are a lot of great options in the market: Justin Verlander, Lucas Giolito, Framber Valdez, Chris Bassitt, Max Scherzer.

— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 30, 2026

Craig Kimbrel: what are his chances of playing in the Majors?

His minor league contract with the Mets doesn't guarantee him anything.

“Does he technically have to win the job?” – Matty V
“Yeah, I think he's gotta win it at this point in time.” – Harold#MLBNHotStove discusses Craig Kimbrel signing a minor league deal with the Mets. pic.twitter.com/3YmCex2F7f

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 31, 2026

John Axford, available for the Classic?

The Canadiens are keeping themselves ready.

Hearing RP John Axford (Simcoe, Ont.) is “cranking it up,” just in case he is needed for March's WBC. Second all-time among Canadians in career saves, Axford is coaching his son's 15U Burlington Bulls team @Brewers #TeamOntarioAstros @baseballcanada @NotreDame

— bob elliott (@elliottbaseball) January 30, 2026

Davis Schneider needs to take advantage

The ABS system can help him.

If ABS allows Schneider to control the zone more (don't be fooled – Schneider is an ABS savant – one of the best in AAA last yr, he will be allowed to challenge), maybe it will bring out more of the '23 Schneider we all loved to watch.

Thanks for reading. Enjoy the weekend. pic.twitter.com/nDLH648KyM

— Chris Black (@DownToBlack) January 30, 2026

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