How signing McCutchen sets Phillies up for Harper and Machado  —  LAS VEGAS — We have the first big move of the winter meetings as the Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to terms with Andrew McCutchen on a three-year deal for a reported $50 million that also includes a team option.  —  EDITOR'S PICKS

Cubs' Joe Maddon says nothing ‘dumb’ about offseason approach  —  LAS VEGAS — In an effort to connect better with his players after a disappointing finish to last season, 64-year-old Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon's winter reading this offseason includes a book called “Managing Millennials for Dummies.”

If Robinson Cano wants to loaf it to first base, Mickey Callaway is fine with that  —  Mets manager Mickey Callaway is fine with Robinson Cano jogging to first base every once in a while.  As long as he can stay on the field.  —  It may be a controversial opinion, but Callaway was steadfast …

Cincinnati Reds mailbag: Will the Reds make any moves during the Winter Meetings?  —  LAS VEGAS - Speaking with people from other organizations, they all mention that the Reds are talking about pitching.  It's a clear need and the Reds are checking on essentially all available options.

Ottavino vs. the Bambino: Hubris or Hilarious?  —  LAS VEGAS — We're not really sure why Adam Ottavino got on the subject of his hypothetical domination of Babe Ruth, but that doesn't mean we can't be thrilled that he did.  For one, it's a beautiful testament to our endless quest …

Yankees expected to meet with Manny Machado soon; Gary Sanchez will be starting catcher, Brian Cashman says  —  LAS VEGAS — The Yankees are expecting to meet with Manny Machado “soon,” a source acknowledged, confirming reports.  The All-Star infielder is scheduled to meet with the Yankees …

Diamondbacks' Torey Lovullo: Trading Paul Goldschmidt ‘one of the hardest days’  —  LAS VEGAS — Maybe it softens the sting of the Paul Goldschmidt trade a bit for Arizona Diamondbacks fans knowing that manager Torey Lovullo is just as sad as they are to lose the franchise icon.

Twins' Byron Buxton has ‘an edge’ after not being recalled in September  —  Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton said Tuesday that he was upset with the club for not calling him up in September when rosters expanded.  —  “Yes.  I ain't sugarcoating nothing,” Buxton told reporters …

Blue Jays Release Troy Tulowitzki  —  The Blue Jays announced today that they have released veteran shortstop Troy Tulowitzki.  The Toronto organization will remain obligated to pay him the remaining $38MM in guaranteed money on his contract (including a buyout of a 2021 option).

A catcher?  A reliever?  Bryce Harper?  White Sox are still exploring free-agent waters  —  Chicago Tribune  —  The next step in the White Sox's attempt to become a contender could be more significant than their acquisition Tuesday of pitcher Ivan Nova from the Pirates …

Jackie Bradley Jr., CC Sabathia traveling to London this week  —  Jackie Bradley Jr. and CC Sabathia are about to give baseball the royal treatment.  —  The Boston outfielder and New York Yankees pitcher are traveling to London this week, six months ahead of the two-game series between the teams in the British capital.

Dodgers hoping for 2019 revival from former rookie of the year Cody Bellinger … The most impactful player the Dodgers can acquire this offseason could be free-agent outfielder Bryce Harper.  It could be Cleveland Indians ace Corey Kluber or Miami Marlins catcher J.T. Realmuto.

Smith, Baines herald age of specialists dawning on Cooperstown  —  LAS VEGAS  • With his ERA lodged around 6.00 and his climb through the minors stalled as a starter, Lee Smith had a manager at Class AA approach him with an offer that would radically alter his career.