The first day of 2026 is in the books. But now it’s the first Friday of 2026. And soon, the first weekend of 2026. Enjoy it! But first, links.
Phillies news
Here’s why Bryson Stott could have a good 2026
at the plate.
Spencer Howard, formerly a Phillie, and most recently a Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagle, has signed with the Yomiuri Giants
. If he could put in a good word about Philadelphia while in Tokyo, that would be much appreciated.Cole Hamels makes the Cooperstown cases for Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley. ($)
MLB news
Tatsuya Imai, formerly of the Saitama Seibu Lions, will be a Houston Astro after reaching an unusual deal with opt outs after every year.
And if you’re wondering how Imai might perform in H-Town, here’s a list of comps.
Jarred Kelenic will be joining the White Sox organization on a minor league deal. It’s good news for Kelenic, good news for the Southsiders, and bad news for those of us who believe that Jared should be spelled with only one r.
FanGraphs takes a look back at some of the best quotes from their coverage in the year that was. ($)
