MLB rumors: Latest on Shohei Ohtani, free agency as Winter Meetings wrap up, Yankees complete Juan Soto trade

MLB’s annual Winter Meetings are wrapping up in Nashville after a few days filled with Shohei Ohtani speculation and one blockbuster trade. The Yankees pulled off the biggest move of the offseason to date on Wednesday night, completing a seven-player trade with the Padres that brings Juan Soto to New York. The Yankees were among the busiest teams at the Winter Meetings and also traded for Red Sox outfielder Alex Verdugo on Tuesday to revamp their lineup.

While there were a few other notable deals (Craig Kimbrel to the Orioles, Eduardo Rodriguez to the D-backs, Jeimer Candelario to the Reds), it was a quieter Winter Meetings than usual. The focus of the baseball world is on Ohtani, who remains in free agency but is reportedly set to make a decision in the coming days. The most serious suitors for the American League MVP have begun to emerge. The Dodgers, Blue Jays and Giants have all reportedly met with Ohtani in recent days, and the incumbent Angels are still in the mix to re-sign him. Once Ohtani signs, the free agent market could really open up, especially for Japanese righty Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Several teams in on Ohtani are also reportedly in on Yamamoto, who could command a contract in the $250-$300 million range.

We’re keeping track of the rumors as they happen on Thursday. Follow along below as CBS Sports provides live updates on the latest rumors, signings, and trades.