Royals Return Drew Butera

The Royals sign catcher Drew Butera to a 2-year deal. #ForeverRoyal #RoyalNoah

Astros Acquire Brian McCann, Josh Reddick

(photo credit: Getty Images)

The Houston Astros have traded right handed pitchers Albert Abreu and Jorge Guzman to the New York Yankees. In return, Houston gets catcher Brian McCann.

McCann has averaged 22 home runs in his 11-year MLB career. McCann, who still has two years left on his five-year, $17 million contract, will get $5.5 million over the next two seasons from New York. 

In addition to McCann, the Astros have also acquired outfielder Josh Reddick. The details include a four-year, $52 million deal. The team is just waiting on his pending physical. 

Royals Make Early Offseason Roster Moves

The Royals exercise options on Wade Davis and Alcides Escobar, decline the option on Kris Medlen and reinstate Mike Moustakes, Tim Collins and Mike Minor. Kendrys Morales and Edinson Volquez declined their mutual options. Royals also decline the mutual option on Luke Hochevar. He becomes a free agent. #ForeverRoyal #RoyalNoah

Cardinals Sign Mike Matheny Through 2020

(photo credit: Forbes.com)

The St. Louis Cardinals have signed manager Mike Matheny through the 2020 season. He has led the Cards to four straight playoff appearances since 2012, when he took over for Tony La Russa.

Matheny also led the team to an NL pennant in 2013. Unfortunately, they fell to the Boston Red Sox in the World Series.