Seattle set to make big run at Shohei Ohtani, foil Rangers: 'We're bringing the big guns'  —  At least two American League clubs will be heavily involved in the pursuit of soon-to-be free agent Shohei Ohtani, a two-way star in the Japan Pacific League.  —  The Texas Rangers have been interested …

Fox drops Marlins TV play-by-play man Rich Waltz, two former Marlins  —  The Marlins will have a significant change in their broadcast booth for the third consecutive season.  —  Fox Sports Florida on Wednesday dropped Marlins play-by-play announcer Rich Waltz, who had filled the position for 13 years.

Giancarlo Stanton Notes: Opt-Out Clause, Contract Value, No-Trade Clause  —  With rumors continuing to swirl around 2017 NL MVP Giancarlo Stanton, Craig Edwards of Fangraphs took a close look at the value of the Marlins outfielder's opt-out clause, and how it might suppress his trade value.

Mets trying to pluck the workhorse behind Indians dominant bullpen … In a quiet holiday week, the Mets are getting a better idea about the free-agent bullpen landscape.  —  One proven reliever is imperative to augment Jeurys Familia, AJ Ramos and Jerry Blevins in the late innings next season.

Rumor Central: Twins showing interest in Pirates' Gerrit Cole, Rays' Jake Odorizzi among others?  —  The Minnesota Twins won 28 more games in 2017 than they did the previous season and are eyeing several pitchers this winter as they attempt to continue their upward trajectory.

Rumor Central: Mariners, Jon Jay discussing deal?  —  The Seattle Mariners have reportedly zeroed in on a target to fill the outfield void vacated by Jarrod Dyson, who recently became a free agent.  —  According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, “there's some momentum” toward an agreement between Seattle and veteran outfielder Jon Jay.

Orioles Acquire Jaycob Brugman  —  The Orioles have acquired outfielder Jaycob Brugman from the Athletics, per a club announcement.  A player to be named or cash will go to Oakland in return.  —  Brugman, 25, was just designated for assignment by the A's.

Angels hire Josh Paul as bench coach, add Brad Ausmus to front office  —  Josh Paul, who spent part of his big league career playing for the Angels under Mike Scioscia, has been hired as the Angels new bench coach.  —  Earlier this month the Angels moved bench coach Dino Ebel to third base coach, replacing Ron Roenicke.