Veteran backstop J.T. Realmuto figures to be the top catcher available on the free-agent market this winter -- provided, that is, he actually hits the open market. Both Realmuto and the Phillies have interest in reaching an agreement before then that would keep him in Philly,

All-Star pitcher Cole Ragans and the Kansas City Royals have reached agreement on a three-year contract extension, per multiple reports Friday evening. ESPN’s Jeff Passan was first to report, per sources, that the left-handed ace Ragans, 27, and the Royals had come to the agreement.

Left-hander Cole Ragans and the Kansas City Royals are in agreement on a three-year, $13.25 million contract extension, sources tell ESPN. The deal covers this year and his first two arbitration seasons, giving KC cost certainty and Ragans a near-top-of-the-market arb salary.