MLB Update: Week of January 24–30, 2026
Arbitration dominated the week: a record gap for Tarik Skubal, big settlements for Randy Arozarena, Brady Singer, and Alec Bohm, and a notable trade sending Edward Cabrera to the Chicago Cubs. Here’s what matters for AthX traders. Browse the marketplace to see current player prices and how this week’s news might move them.
1. Tarik Skubal and Tigers Set Historic Arbitration Gap
The News: Two-time AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers did not reach a deal before the arbitration filing deadline. Skubal filed at $32 million; the Tigers countered at $19 million—a $13 million gap, the largest in arbitration history. AthX Impact: Skubal is a top-tier pitcher; his AthX price reflects that. If he wins his hearing (scheduled between late January and mid-February), he’ll set a new arbitration record. Either way, his talent and role are unchanged—volatility around the hearing could create short-term price moves. Long-term holders should focus on his performance outlook, not the one-time contract news. Trading Tip: Use dynamic pricing to your advantage. Any dip around hearing noise could be a chance to add shares if you’re bullish on Skubal’s season.
2. Eighteen Players Headed to Arbitration Hearings
The News: After the January filing deadline, 18 players exchanged figures with their teams and did not settle. Hearings will run from January 26 through February 13. Most other eligible players (about 150) agreed to one-year deals and avoided hearings. AthX Impact: Hearings are one-off events. They rarely change a player’s underlying value for the season. Traders who care about dividends and pace should focus on role, health, and lineup—not whether a player “won” or “lost” arbitration. What to Watch: Monitor any players you hold who are in the 18. Post-hearing, prices often normalize quickly.
3. Big Arbitration Settlements: Arozarena, Singer, Bohm
The News: Several stars settled before hearings:
AthX Impact: These deals remove contract uncertainty. Stable, productive players like these are often good candidates for dividend-focused holdings. Their prices may see less volatility now that salary questions are resolved. Trading Strategy: If you’re building a portfolio for dividends, players with settled contracts and clear roles are typically easier to evaluate.
4. Cubs Acquire Edward Cabrera from Marlins
The News: The Chicago Cubs acquired right-hander Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins in exchange for prospects Owen Caissie, Cristian Hernandez, and Edgardo De Leon. AthX Impact: Cabrera moves to a stronger division and a different ballpark. His strikeout upside stays relevant for fantasy and AthX scoring; his price may shift as the market prices in the new environment. Watch early-season performance and usage. What to Watch: NL Central lineups and Wrigley’s conditions can help or hurt pitchers. Track his first few starts before overreacting to the trade.
5. Pirates Sign Ryan O’Hearn
The News: The Pittsburgh Pirates signed first baseman/outfielder Ryan O'Hearn to bolster their lineup. AthX Impact: O’Hearn gets a clearer path to at-bats in Pittsburgh. If he maintains recent production, his AthX value could rise. His price may still be relatively modest—worth watching for value if you believe in the bat. Trading Tip: Role and playing time drive AthX value. Follow roster and lineup news as spring training gets underway.
6. Spring Training Around the Corner
The News: Spring training reporting dates are typically in mid-February, with games soon after. Rosters and roles will start to crystallize. AthX Impact: As roles and lineups become clearer, player prices often adjust. Injury news and position battles will matter more. Use this period to build or adjust your portfolio before the season begins. Strategy: Consider diversifying across players and teams so you’re not overexposed to one spring storyline.
How to Use This Week’s News on AthX
Stay updated with MLB news and tie it to your AthX trading strategy. Browse the marketplace to see current prices and build your portfolio.
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