December 27

2018 – Veteran DH Nelson Cruz ends an excellent four-season run with the Seattle Mariners by signing a one-year deal with the Twins for $14.3 million. The Mariners are in full rebuilding mode and have no room for the 38-year-old slugger, even though he was still one of their most productive hitters last season.

Cubs SS Starlin Castro is questioned by police in Monte Cristi in the Dominican Republic after a shooting at a nightclub. Castro explains through his agent that he was present but had nothing to do with the incident.

Bad news for the Yankees as veteran Hiroki Kuroda, their most consistent starter over the last three seasons, is headed back to Japan. Reports indicate he has signed a one-year deal with the Hiroshima Carp.

2013 – The Angels sign veteran OF Raul Ibanez, a long-time nemesis, to a one-year contract at age 41.

2012 – OF Hideki Matsui announces his retirement at a press conference in New York, NY. He had hit .304 with 332 home runs as a three-time MVP during his prime in Japan, then added 175 homers, a World Series MVP award and a .282 average winding down his career in the US.

The Mets acquire IF Chin-lung Hu from the Dodgers in return for P Michael Antonini.

The Brewers continue to add pitchers, today inking veteran reliever Takashi Saito, who will be 41 on Opening Day, to a one-year contract.

The Toronto Blue Jays officially announce the acquisition of third baseman Troy Glaus and minor league shortstop Sergio Santos in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks. In return, the Diamondbacks receive second baseman Orlando Hudson and pitcher Miguel Batista.

After the Cubs decline Moises Alou’s (.293, 39, 106) contract option, the Giants ink the free agent outfielder to a one-year contract with an option for a second year. The signing marks the second time the All-Star will be managed by his dad Felipe, as he did playing with the Expos from 1992-96.