Here’s the morning rundown on the biggest news items from around Major League Baseball for Saturday, December 12th:

• In the biggest news of Friday, Jason Heyward chose to sign with the Chicago Cubs on an eight year deal worth a total of $184 million, as first reported by Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun Times.
• In somewhat related news, the St. Louis Cardinals are now showing serious interest in outfielder Alex Gordon, after they missed out on re-signing Heyward, as first mentioned by Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
• Following the signing of Heyward, the Cubs have shifted their attention and now look to be focused on trading for another starting pitcher, according to Jon Morosi of Fox Sports.
• After a long and productive fifteen year career, Mets outfielder/1st baseman Michael Cuddyer has announced his retirement, as confirmed by Adam Rubin of ESPN.
• Finally, trade talks around Tampa Bay Rays reliever Jake McGee have intensified, with the Dodgers being a potential fit, as reported by Jon Morosi.