MLB rumors: Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers

With Shohei Ohtani finally announcing his decision and the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the sweepstakes for his services, MLB fans can expect the floodgates on signings to open soon. With that in mind, let's examine some of the latest MLB rumors, news and notes involving the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers.

New York Yankees rumors: Gerrit Cole opt-out being eliminated?

Coming off a year when he won the American League Cy Young Award, the Yankees are counting on Cole to be a leader for them again on the mound in 2024. There is, however, an opt-out in Cole's clause after this season that, if used, could throw a wrench in the plans in the Bronx in 2025 and beyond.

In his weekly column for USA Today, MLB insider Bob Nightengale believes that Cole's agent, Scott Boras, is looking to have the Yankees close that potential loophole by adding a $36 million extension onto Cole's contract for the 2029 campaign.

More money in the Bronx coming before the Yankees can try to seal Juan Soto's services past this season? It's something to keep an eye on for Yankees fans.

Boston Red Sox rumors: Alex Cora a wanted man?

Speaking of contracts, this is the last year for Cora's contract with the Red Sox, and Nightengale writes that several teams "have already expressed strong interest" in bringing the manager on board after the 2024 season ends.

Could Cora use the recent five-year, $40 million deal signed by Craig Counsell with the Chicago Cubs as leverage for his services next offseason?

Milwaukee Brewers: Corbin Burnes staying put?

Among the starting pitchers who have been mentioned as trade candidates this offseason is Burnes, especially after Milwaukee lost Counsell and has been very active this winter with moves already.

Nightengale, however, writes that Burnes may not be going anywhere this offseason, with Milwaukee "still wanting to compete for the NL Central title."

If Burnes is unavailable for trade and with Ohtani off the market, teams looking to boost their rotations past next season may be inclined to hop on some of the other free agents (like Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery) sooner than later.