What happened: Per Jon Heyman, New York is expected to extend the $23.15 million qualifying offer to Bednar after he stabilized the closer role, with a draft pick in the 130-135 range as compensation if he declines. Jazz Chisholm Jr. is expected to hit free agency without an offer after regression at the plate and in the field. Cabrera agreed to a one-year, $1 million deal with Cincinnati after a September waiver claim from New York, while Judge publicly pressed ownership for payroll additions after a sweep by Tampa Bay sidelined him with a calf strain.

Why it matters: Passing on Chisholm avoids tying $23.15 million to a bat and glove that slipped this season. Stanton appeared in 24 games in 2026 with strains in both calves and is owed $25 million in 2027 plus a $25 million option with a $10 million buyout for 2028, with Miami covering $10 million in each season, forcing a keep-or-eat-$15-million call. Judge enters his age-35 season after another injury-interrupted campaign, adding urgency to his push despite continued strong ties to ownership.

What to watch: Formal qualifying-offer decisions come first, followed by the Stanton roster call. Watch whether Bednar accepts and if ownership answers Judge with winter spending.