I apologize if the answer to this is in the forums already, but searching didn't yield a definitive answer...

If I sign two free agents with six-plus pro years who have options remaining, will I be able to keep them off the 40-man roster until after the Rule 5 draft? I have 38 on my 40-man roster and will want to make a Rule 5 pick in that draft tomorrow. I just submitted offers to a pitcher and a hitter, and depending on what I get from Rule 5, one would start in the big leagues for me and one would be held in AAA.

My understanding of the process is that if they accept my offers before the roster freeze, they would be unassigned and would not take up the two remaining spots on my 40-man roster. Am I correct that the offers would not keep me from drafting a Rule 5 player?

They won't take a roster spot until you assign them. The problem you will have is that if you draft someone in the rule 5 you still have to make 40 man room for the players you have unassigned.

Thanks ostad!