Buster's Buzz: Biggest contender holes after run of major trades  —  Agents and executives have noted a trend — a concerning trend, for the veteran players — that will soon manifest for the middle class of the free-agent market: Teams are filling some of their big needs through trades.

Cubs might have to get creative without budget for a winter meetings splash  —  CHICAGO — What happens when you don't have the money to fix something that's broken?  Sometimes the answer is to find a creative solution instead.  That's seemingly what the Chicago Cubs' front office is facing …

2018 winter meetings: Braves still seek outfield, pitching help  —  The Braves contingent travels to Las Vegas with a shortened shopping list after reeling in catcher Brian McCann and third baseman Josh Donaldson.  Their go-get-it mentality still leaves three primary concerns: Corner outfield, rotation and bullpen.

Red Sox To Re-Sign Nathan Eovaldi  —  The Red Sox have struck a deal to bring back righty Nathan Eovaldi, pending a physical, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic (via Twitter).  The ACES client has secured a four-year, $67.5MM contract, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand (via Twitter).

Arizona Diamondbacks didn't let emotions stand in way of Paul Goldschmidt trade  —  Discussing the possibility of a Paul Goldschmidt trade earlier this offseason, a rival evaluator mused about what the situation would say about the state of the Diamondbacks under General Manager Mike Hazen.

In midst of rebuild, Rangers won't spend big for 2019.  How far will their payroll drop?  —  Gone from the Texas Rangers' 2018 payroll are the salaries of Adrian Beltre, Cole Hamels, Matt Moore, Martin Perez, Doug Fister, Robinson Chirinos, Jake Diekman and others.

Tulo and other Blue Jays veterans on notice as winter meetings approach  —  As the Blue Jays continue to fast-track to the future — and whatever that may hold — it's clear the team is willing to further distance itself from the recent past if and when it makes sense.

Detroit Tigers hope to cash in Nicholas Castellanos for prospects  —  Taking a look at what the Tigers' starting lineup and pitching rotation could look like to open the 2019 season.  Video by Anthony Fenech and Ryan Ford, Detroit Free Press.  —  CONNECT  —  The names have changed, but the vision remains the same.

Indians Extend Carlos Carrasco  —  The Indians have struck an extension with veteran righty Carlos Carrasco, announcing the deal just after Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported it (Twitter link).  The ACES client will now be under contract in Cleveland through at least the 2022 campaign.