Mets showing strong interest in Lucas Giolito as they mull Plan B free agency options  —  Kodai Senga showed last season that he's capable of leading a rotation, a positive development for the Mets given that the Japanese right-hander might need to wear that “ace” label in 2024.

Rays' Wander Franco no-shows agency summons in D.R.  —  Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco did not respond to a summons filed in the Dominican Republic to address allegations that he had inappropriate relationships with minors, the agency director said Thursday.

Yankees trade outfielder Estevan Florial to Cleveland Guardians for right-hander Cody Morris  —  The Yankees traded former top prospect Estevan Florial to the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday, acquiring right-hander Cody Morris for the 26-year-old outfielder.  Florial signed with the Yankees …

Herb Kohl, former U.S. senator and Milwaukee Bucks owner, dies at age 88  —  Amy Rabideau Silvers, Craig Gilbert and Bill GlauberMilwaukee Journal Sentinel  —  Herb Kohl, the former U.S. senator, Milwaukee Bucks owner and retail shopping magnate, died Wednesday afternoon at the age of 88 after a brief illness.

Russell Wilson expecting to be cut by Broncos in March after midseason contract dispute: Sources  —  Russell Wilson is expecting to be cut by the Denver Broncos in March, per league sources.  The veteran quarterback was informed Wednesday of the team's decision to bench him for the final …

Dodgers Sign Jonathan Arauz To Minor League Deal  —  The Dodgers have signed infielder Jonathan Arauz to a minor league deal, according to his player page on MLB.com.  The specifics of the deal aren't clear, but it's likely the contract comes with an invite to big league Spring Training.

Pregnant Texas teen Savanah Nicole Soto and boyfriend found dead, family says  —  Missing Texas teen Savanah Nicole Soto, who was due to give birth any day, and her boyfriend have been found dead following a multi-day search, a family member confirmed Tuesday.