Fargo Dinosaurs News and Notes January 16th, 2026

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Fargo Dinosaurs News and Notes January 16th, 2026

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A 8 year contract extension was given out to one of PEBA's bright young talents, and two surprising free agent signings for the Dinosaurs. All this following word that extremely popular living legend Markus Hancock will not be returning to the team. A busy first few weeks of 2026 in Fargo.
  • The Neo-Tokyo Akira recently announced the signing of pitcher Markus Hancock, who spent the last two season with the Fargo Dinosaurs. Hancock who will be turning 40 this year, failed to vest his third year option by failing to record 13 starts last season, a result of diminishing stuff that pushed the great starting pitcher to the bullpen where he flourished ending the season with a 139 ERA+. Fargo fans were noticeably upset at the news that Hancock would not be returning as he is a legitimate star of PEBA and was easily a fan favorite following his surprise singing two seasons ago.
  • The fans quickly saw their anger turn to joy as news broke out that CF Pat Watson, a young phenom who just turned 24, signed an 8 year contract extension with the Dinosaurs, locking up their star who narrowly finished 2nd behind Crystal Lake CF Jerry Long in total WAR in the Sovereign League. Watson finished with 7.2 WAR in what was his first full season of play in PEBA. The contract extension kicks in following the 2026 season (so he'll be a super bargain at the league minimum this year), and jumps Watson's salary to $9.55 million the first year and escalates to $17.55 million in the 7 year of the deal, and $19.55 million in the 8th year, which is a team option year with a $5 million buy-out if the option is declined.
  • The Dinosaurs rang in the New Year with a pair of free agent signings that have also boosted fan interest. First was the announcement of the team coming to a five year, $41 million contract with closerLúcio Rodríguez. Then word got out that the team have also agreed to a two year, $22 million contract with 1B Ryutaro Okada.
  • Rodriguez is expected to compete with last years closer Bernardo Moreno for the gig in Fargo this season, but given the contract length that was given out, it would be assumed that Rodriquez has the inside track. Okada brings a much needed lefty mashing bat to a lineup that is predominately left-handed hitting. He'll get time at 1B and DH per team sources. The team has said they are still planning on being active in the free agent market and could add another pitcher and possibly an infielder.
Cristian Shofar - GM Fargo Dinosaurs
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