As we observe an uptick in stolen bases across the MLB, several players are making their mark. Jorge Mateo leads the league with five steals in just four games, showcasing his potential as a top asset for fantasy teams. Luis Robert Jr. has taken over the lead for the season with 215 steals, while Bobby Witt Jr. is hot on his heels with 205.

Teams like the Baltimore Orioles have shifted strategies under new management, attempting a league-high of 14 steals, indicating a growing trend in aggressive baserunning. Conversely, the Miami Marlins have tightened their defense, allowing only three steals last week, which raises questions about their catcher's future performance. As the season progresses, tracking these trends can be crucial for optimizing fantasy lineups.

Jovan Oviedo of the Pittsburgh Pirates has made headlines as the first player to enter salary arbitration this year, seeking a raise to $1.15 million from his current salary of $765,000. The Pirates, however, countered with an offer of $850,000. The decision from arbitrators Allen Ponak, Robert Herman, and Jasbir Parmar is forthcoming.

In a related matter, Baltimore's Jorge Mateo successfully avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year contract valued at $3.55 million, with an additional $5.5 million team option for 2026. Mateo had initially requested $4 million but settled after the Orioles offered $3.1 million. His performance last season included a batting average of .229, five home runs, and 13 stolen bases.

As the arbitration period extends through February 14, eleven additional players face hearings, with notable cases including Nathaniel Lowe of the Washington Nationals, who is debating an $11.1 million salary demand against a $10.3 million offer. Other players in line for arbitration include Michael King from San Diego and Milwaukee's William Contreras, each with substantial salary discrepancies. The outcomes of these negotiations will be closely monitored as players and teams navigate the complex arbitration landscape.

In St. Petersburg, Florida, the Pittsburgh Pirates' Jovan Oviedo made headlines by being the first player to enter salary arbitration this year. The 27-year-old right-hander is negotiating for a raise from $765,000 to $1.15 million, while the Pirates are countering with an offer of $850,000. The decision from the arbitration panel is expected soon.

In other arbitration news, Baltimore's Jorge Mateo has successfully avoided a hearing by agreeing to a $3.55 million contract for the upcoming season, which includes a potential $5.5 million team option for 2026. Mateo initially requested $4 million, with the team proposing $3.1 million.

Further arbitration hearings are scheduled for eleven other players, including notable names like Nathaniel Lowe and Michael King, with discussions running until February 14. Last year, players had a winning record in arbitration, which could influence the outcomes this season.

Coby Mayo, a promising prospect for the Baltimore Orioles, is poised for another year in Triple-A as Spring Training approaches. Despite a challenging debut in the majors, Mayo's potential remains high, with the Orioles' front office optimistic about his future contributions. The team is currently managing a crowded infield situation, making it unlikely that Mayo will secure a spot on the Opening Day roster. With seven infielders already in play, the organization faces tough decisions, especially with Mayo's talent shining in the minors.

The Orioles' general manager, Mike Elias, is exploring trades to alleviate the logjam while still valuing Mayo's batting prowess, which could eventually provide them with a powerful addition, similar to other young stars like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman. Although Mayo may begin the upcoming season in Triple-A, he remains a key player to watch for the Orioles' future.

The Baltimore Orioles have officially claimed infielder Jacob Amaya from the Chicago White Sox via waivers. Amaya was previously designated for assignment by the White Sox following the signing of Josh Rojas. To accommodate Amaya on the roster, the Orioles have designated right-handed pitcher Roansy Contreras for assignment.

Amaya, once a top-10 prospect in the Los Angeles Dodgers' system, was traded to the Miami Marlins in 2023 for seasoned infielder Miguel Rojas. He made his MLB debut shortly after but faced challenges, leading to his designation and a subsequent trade to the Houston Astros. His tenure with the Astros was brief, and he was designated for assignment again in August, eventually being picked up by the White Sox.

During his brief stint in the big leagues, Amaya played in 23 games, posting a .179 batting average with three RBIs and one stolen base. Despite his struggles at the plate, he showed some defensive prowess, saving three runs at shortstop. Historically, Amaya has performed better in the minors, holding a .251 average with a .741 OPS over his career. However, with established infielders like Gunnar Henderson and Jackson Holliday ahead of him, his chances of securing a starting role with the Orioles appear slim. Nevertheless, with Jorge Mateo recovering from elbow surgery, Amaya may still vie for a roster spot as a backup infielder.