It was another wild MLB offseason that featured record-breaking deals, highlighted by the world champion Los Angeles Dodgers landing this year’s top free agent, Kyle Tucker, on a four-year, $240 million deal with opt-outs. They also signed the best closer available, Edwin Díaz. The American League champion Toronto Blue Jays made a splash, adding three pitchers (Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce and Tyler Rogers) and third baseman Kazuma Okamoto. The 2025 World Series teams will enter spring training with clearly the two best rosters.
Then there were the New York Mets, who had a rollercoaster few months. They said goodbye to several fan-favorites early in the offseason but finished it with several strong additions. We even had surprises, like the Baltimore Orioles landing a big-name free agent, Pete Alonso, on a long-term deal, and the Pittsburgh Pirates finally spending some money, as they added much-needed offensive upgrades.
There are still free agents left on the open market who should improve the teams that sign them, including starting pitchers Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen. Nevertheless, the offseason is nearly complete, so it’s time to hand out some final offseason grades for all 30 teams, subject to adjustments for late moves.
(Major-league signings and trades are listed with each team.)
National League East
Atlanta Braves
Grade: B+
Free agents:
*RHP Raisel Iglesias 1-year, $16 million
*SS Ha-Seong Kim 1-year, $20 million
*OF Mike Yastrzemski 2-years, $23 million
*RHP Robert Suarez 3-years, $45 million
*RHP Tyler Kinley 1-year, $4.25 million
*INF Jorge Mateo 1-year, $1 million
Trades:
*Acquired INF/OF Mauricio Dubón from Astros for INF Nick Allen
*Acquired LHP Ryan Rolison from Rockies for cash considerations
*Acquired PTBNL or cash considerations from Rays for INF Brett Wisely and LHP Ken Waldichuk
Hirings:
*Walt Weiss, manager
Key takeaways: The Braves fortified the back end of their bullpen, signing 2025 NL saves leader Robert Suarez and re-signing incumbent closer Raisel Iglesias. They addressed the shortstop position by bringing back Ha-Seong Kim on a one-year deal, only to see him suffer a freak injury in January and undergo hand surgery that will keep him out four to five months. It’s a big loss, but the Braves should be able to absorb it after bolstering their bench by adding Mike Yastrzemski, Mauricio Dubón and Jorge Mateo.
Robert Suarez and Raisel Iglesias give the Braves a formidable one-two punch at the back of their bullpen. (Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
Biggest question: Will the Braves’ starting rotation stay healthy and return to prominence? How will Spencer Schwellenbach and Reynaldo López fare as they return from injuries, and can Chris Sale and Spencer Strider get back to performing at their best?
Season prediction: Second place
Miami Marlins
Grade: B
Free agents:
*RHP Pete Fairbanks 1-year, $15 million
*INF/OF Christopher Morel 1-year, $2 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Owen Caissie, INF Cristian Hernandez and INF Edgardo DeLeon from Cubs for RHP Edward Cabrera
*Acquired OF Dillon Lewis, OF Brendan Jones, INF Dylan Jasso and INF Juan Matheus from Yankees for LHP Ryan Weathers
*Acquired cash considerations from Giants for OF Joey Wiemer
*Acquired OF Ethan O’Donnell from Reds for OF Dane Myers
*Acquired OF Esteury Ruiz from Dodgers for RHP Adriano Marrero
*Acquired LHP Kade Bragg from Twins for 1B Eric Wagaman
Key takeaways: The Marlins received solid trade returns for pitchers Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers, who both carry high injury risk. They received a boatload of prospects in those deals, highlighted by high-end outfield prospects Owen Caissie and Dillon Lewis. The Marlins did a great job of building their prospect depth, though Keith Law still ranks their farm system in the bottom-third of the league.
Biggest question: Can Sandy Alcantara regain his Cy Young Award-winning form? If so, it would give the Marlins another big trade chip at the deadline.
Season prediction: Fourth place
New York Mets
Grade: A-
Free agents:
*3B Bo Bichette 3-years, $126 million
*RHP Devin Williams 3-years, $51 million
*INF Jorge Polanco 2-years, $40 million
*RHP Luke Weaver 2-years, $22 million
Trades:
*Acquired 2B Marcus Semien from Rangers for OF Brandon Nimmo
*Acquired CF Luis Robert Jr. from White Sox for INF Luisangel Acuña and RHP Truman Pauley
*Acquired RHP Freddy Peralta and RHP Tobias Myers from Brewers for RHP Brandon Sproat and INF/OF Jett Williams
*Acquired RHP Yordan Rodriguez from Athletics for 2B/OF Jeff McNeil
*Acquired cash considerations for RHP Cooper Criswell
Key takeaways: The Mets had a slow start to their offseason that featured the departures of several fan-favorite players: Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz (in free agency) and Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil (in trades). However, as we near the end of the offseason, they have rebuilt the team into a serious pennant contender, with a much deeper lineup, a stronger defensive team up the middle, and better arms at the top of their rotation.
Luis Robert Jr. is a plus defender in center with speed and power, but also has chase, strikeout and focus issues that have plagued him. Bo Bichette has led the American League in hits twice but will be asked to move to third base, a position he’s never played in the majors. Jorge Polanco has 20-homer power but can’t match the power of Alonso, whom he’s replacing, and will be moving to a position (first base) he has little experience playing.
Freddy Peralta gives the Mets another top-of-the-rotation starter to go with rookie Nolan McLean. They also added Devin Williams and Luke Weaver to replace Edwin Díaz and Tyler Rogers at the back of the bullpen. These upgrades seem good enough to get the Mets back to the postseason.
Biggest question: Can Kodai Senga stay healthy? If he’s at his best, alongside Peralta and McLean, it would give the Mets a trio of starters that could thrive in the postseason.
Season prediction: First place
Philadelphia Phillies
Grade: C+
Free agents:
*DH Kyle Schwarber 5-years, $150 million
*C J.T. Realmuto 3-years, $45 million
*RHP Brad Keller 2-years, $22 million
*RF Adolis García 1-year, $10 million
*RHP Zach Pop 1-year, $900,000
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Yoniel Curet from Rays for RHP Tommy McCollum
*Acquired RHP Jonathan Bowlan from Royals for LHP Matt Strahm
*Acquired LHP Kyle Backhus from Diamondbacks for OF Avery Owusu-Asiedu
Key takeaways: Retaining Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto was key for the Phillies, and I like that they took a chance on Adolis García as a potential rebound candidate. They are expected to give rookie Justin Crawford an opportunity as the everyday center fielder, which might end up being their best move, as he could add the speed and athleticism (along with plus defense) this team needs. Righty Brad Keller gives the Phillies a quality set-up man for closer Jhoan Duran, adding to their high-leverage options, though they chose to trade lefty Matt Strahm.
The Phillies are taking a chance on Adolis García, who is searching for a bounce-back season. (Ron Jenkins / Getty Images)
Biggest questions: Have they kept this team together too long? Can Zack Wheeler and rookie Andrew Painter stay healthy and live up to expectations? Can Aaron Nola return to form?
Season prediction: Third place
Washington Nationals
Grade: A-
Free agents:
*LHP Foster Griffin 1-year, $5.5 million
Trades:
*Acquired C Harry Ford and RHP Isaac Lyon from Mariners for LHP Jose A. Ferrer
*Acquired RHP Luis Perales from Red Sox for LHP Jake Bennett
*Acquired IF Gavin Fien, 1B Abimelec Ortiz, SS Devin Fitz-Gerald, RHP Alejandro Rosario and CF Yeremy Cabrera from the Rangers for LHP MacKenzie Gore
Hires:
*Paul Taboni, president of baseball operations
*Ani Kilambi, general manager
*Blake Butera, manager
Key takeaways: The Nationals made three significant trades under their new front office leadership. In the first two, they acquired one of the best offensive catching prospects in the game, Harry Ford, and one of the best pitching prospects in the Red Sox farm system, Luis Perales. The best trade the Nationals made was the swap with the Rangers that landed them 2025 first-round pick Gavin Fien, who now becomes their long-term answer at shortstop. In addition to Fien, they added four more prospects in that deal, including right-hander Alejandro Rosario, who has a strong arsenal and upside, though he will miss the 2026 season as he deals with a torn UCL.
Biggest question: Will shortstop CJ Abrams be the next player the Nats trade?
Season prediction: Fifth place
National League Central
Chicago Cubs
Grade: A
Free agents:
*3B Alex Bregman, 5-years, $175 million
*RHP Phil Maton 2-years, $14.5 million
*RHP Hunter Harvey 1-year, $6 million
*LHP Hoby Milner 1-year, $3.75 million
*LHP Caleb Thielbar 1-year, $2.75 million
*RHP Jacob Webb 1-year, $1.5 million
Qualifying Offers:
*LHP Shota Imanaga accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Edward Cabrera from Marlins for OF Owen Caissie, INF Cristian Hernandez and INF Edgardo DeLeon
Key takeaways: The Cubs have had arguably their best offseason since president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer took over in November 2020. They bolstered their starting rotation by acquiring Edward Cabrera, who has three years of team control remaining. They rebuilt the bullpen, adding five new relievers. But they made their biggest splash with the Alex Bregman signing. In addition to what he brings to the field, Bregman gives the Cubs an instant upgrade in team leadership and clubhouse culture. They lost Kyle Tucker in free agency but still have one of the best defensive outfields with Gold Glovers Ian Happ and Pete Crow-Armstrong.
Alex Bregman is a big addition for the Cubs on the field and in the clubhouse. (Geoff Stellfox / Getty Images)
Biggest question: Will starting pitcher Justin Steele (elbow surgery) be able to return to the active roster during the first half of the season and regain the form that had him in the ERA title race when he suffered the injury last season?
Season prediction: First place
Cincinnati Reds
Grade: B
Free agents:
*RHP Emilio Pagán 2-years, $20 million
*LHP Caleb Ferguson 1-year, $4.5 million
*OF JJ Bleday 1-year, $1.4 million
*RHP Pierce Johnson 1-year, $6.5 million
*3B/1B Eugenio Suárez 1-year, $15 million with $16 million mutual option
Trades:
*Acquired OF Dane Myers from Marlins for OF Ethan O’Donnell
*As part of a three-team deal, acquired LHP Brock Burke from Angels for INF Gavin Lux, who went to Rays
*Acquired RHP Dusty Revis from Mariners for RHP Yosver Zulueta
Key takeaways: The Reds waited out free-agent power hitter Eugenio Suárez until his asking price came down and they closed a short-term deal with him (one year guaranteed plus a mutual option for 2027) on the first day of February, giving the Reds much needed right-handed power for their lineup. Suárez belted 49 homers last year between the Diamondbacks and Mariners and his swing is perfect for Great American Ball Park. He’s expected to share time at DH, first base and third base with rookie Sal Stewart and veteran Spencer Steer, who is also expected to play some in the outfield. The Reds also did an excellent job of bolstering their bullpen and outfield depth. In addition, they surprised the industry by making Ohio native Kyle Schwarber a competitive offer in free agency and tried to extend Elly De La Cruz on an deal that would have made him the highest paid player in Reds history, surpassing Joey Votto’s $251.5 million pact from 2012. However, they weren’t able to get either of those deals across the finish line.
Biggest question: Even with Suárez on board, do they have enough offense to make it back to the postseason?
Season prediction: Third place
Milwaukee Brewers
Grade: B+
Free agents:
*OF Akil Baddoo 1-year, $1.25 million
Qualifying Offers:
*RHP Brandon Woodruff accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Brandon Sproat and INF/OF Jett Williams from Mets for RHP Freddy Peralta and RHP Tobias Myers
*Acquired LHP Angel Zerpa from Royals for OF Isaac Collins and RHP Nick Mears
Key takeaways: General manager Matt Arnold won his second consecutive Executive of the Year Award but don’t expect a three-peat with both Andrew Friedman of the Dodgers and David Stearns of the Mets having excellent offseasons. The Brewers did what they probably had to do and traded away Freddy Peralta, who can elect free agency next offseason, and got a spectacular return from the Mets: two top-100 prospects, Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams. Sproat is a middle-of-the-rotation type bulldog who is ready for the majors and Williams should compete for an everyday job, in either the infield or outfield (or maybe he’ll play a mix of both).
I liked the pickup of Angel Zerpa to boost the bullpen, but the Brewers paid a big price to get him. I was surprised they extended Brandon Woodruff the qualifying offer based on his injury history, but if Milwaukee is to repeat as NL Central champions, it’ll need him after trading Peralta.
Biggest question: Can the Brewers hold off the surging Cubs, Reds and Pirates? All three have improved their big-league rosters more than the Brewers this offseason.
Season prediction: Second place
Pittsburgh Pirates
Grade: A-
Free Agents:
*LHP Gregory Soto 1-year, $7.75 million
*1B/OF Ryan O’Hearn 2-years, $29 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Jhostynxon Garcia and RHP Jesus Travieso from Red Sox for RHP Johan Oviedo, LHP Tyler Samaniego and C Adonys Guzman
*As part of a three-team deal, acquired 2B Brandon Lowe, OF Jake Mangum and LHP Mason Montgomery from Rays for RHP Mike Burrows (who went to the Astros)
Key takeaways: The Pirates finally did it. They were aggressive with their efforts to improve their offense, highlighted by the trades for second baseman Brandon Lowe and outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and the signing of first baseman/outfielder/DH Ryan O’Hearn. They have one of the best young starting rotations in MLB and now — finally — have a chance to score some runs for them. They also have the best prospect in baseball — shortstop Konnor Griffin — waiting in the wings. Griffin is only 19 but he could make the Opening Day roster or debut before All-Star break. He could be the key as to whether the Pirates are pretenders or contenders.
Brandon Lowe was a big addition to the Pirates’ lineup. (Julio Aguilar / Getty Images)
Biggest question: If the Pirates are not in the postseason race at the trade deadline, will they reconsider their stance on trading Paul Skenes (who will have three and a half years of control remaining)?
Season prediction: Fourth place
St. Louis Cardinals
Grade: B
Free agents:
*RHP Dustin May 1-year, $12.5 million
*RHP Ryne Stanek 1-year, $3.5 million
Trades:
*Acquired LHP Brandon Clarke and RHP Richard Fitts from Red Sox for RHP Sonny Gray
*Acquired RHP Hunter Dobbins, RHP Yhoiker Fajardo and RHP Blake Aitaf from Red Sox for 1B Willson Contreras
*Acquired LHP Justin Bruihl from Guardians for cash considerations
*Acquired RHP Jack Martinez from Diamondbacks for 3B Nolan Arenado and cash considerations
Promotions:
*Chaim Bloom to president of baseball operations
Key takeaways: The Chaim Bloom era has begun in St. Louis. His first offseason running the team was highlighted by dealing veterans Sonny Gray, Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado, who all waived their no-trade clauses. The Cardinals focused on obtaining young, controllable pitching prospects back in all of their trades, with lefty Brandon Clarke from the Gray deal having the highest upside.
Biggest question: How soon will top prospects like JJ Wetherholt, Liam Doyle and Joshua Baez be promoted to the big leagues, and how good will they be when they arrive?
Season prediction: Fifth place
National League West
Arizona Diamondbacks
Grade: D+
Free agents:
*RHP Merrill Kelly 2-years, $40 million
*RHP Michael Soroka 1-year, $7.5 million
*C James McCann 1-year, $2.75 million
Trades:
*Acquired 3B Nolan Arenado and cash considerations from Cardinals for RHP Jack Martinez
*Acquired RHP Josh Grosz from Rockies for OF Jake McCarthy
*Acquired OF Avery Owusu-Asiedu from Phillies for LHP Kyle Backhus
Key takeaways: The Diamondbacks have had a rough offseason. So far, their only significant move was to bring back right-hander Merrill Kelly. They traded for Nolan Arenado, whose production has been declining, took a chance on the oft-injured Michael Soroka and added a backup catcher in James McCann. They also traded for a good bullpen arm, righty Josh Grosz, but had to part with speedy outfielder Jake McCarthy in the deal.
Adding a declining Nolan Arenado doesn’t move the needle much for the Diamondbacks. (Dustin Bradford / Getty Images)
Biggest questions: How will Jordan Lawlar adjust to moving from the infield to the outfield, and will he be able to win the everyday center-field job? Will the D-Backs move Ketel Marte before the trade deadline? Will they be able to re-sign Zac Gallen?
Season prediction: Fourth place
Colorado Rockies
Grade: C+
Free agents:
*INF Willi Castro 2-years, $12.8 million
*RHP Michael Lorenzen 1-year, $8 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Jake McCarthy from Diamondbacks for RHP Josh Grosz
*Acquired cash considerations from Braves for LHP Ryan Rolison
*Acquired 2B Edouard Julien and RHP Pierson Ohl from Twins for RHP Jace Kaminska and cash
*Acquired IB TJ Rumfield from Yankees for RHP Angel Chivilli
Hires:
*Paul DePodesta, president of baseball operations
*Josh Byrnes, general manager
Key takeaways: Hiring baseball veterans Paul DePodesta and Josh Byrnes saved their offseason grade. The pair bring an outside perspective to the puzzle of how to rebuild the Rockies to try to take advantage of playing half their games at Coors Field. It will be interesting to monitor their progress. They really haven’t improved the roster this offseason outside of adding solid bench depth (Jake McCarthy, Edouard Julien and Willi Castro) and a backend starter (Michael Lorenzen).
Biggest question: How long will it take the new front office to rebuild the club’s infrastructure and help the organization catch up in terms of analytics and technology?
Season prediction: Fifth place
Los Angeles Dodgers
Grade: A+
Free agents:
*OF Kyle Tucker 4-years, $240 million
*RHP Edwin Díaz 3-years, $69 million
*SS Miguel Rojas 1-year, $5.5 million
*INF Andy Ibañez 1-year, $1.2 million
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Adriano Marrero from Marlins for OF Esteury Ruiz
Key takeaways: The Dodgers have won back-to-back titles and had only two real weaknesses last year — no impact closer and below-average defense in right field. Well, they addressed both of those areas, signing the top closer in the NL, Edwin Díaz, and the top-overall free agent, Kyle Tucker, to play right field. They had the best team in baseball before those moves; now, they’re set up nicely to three-peat, clear favorites to win it all again.
The Dodgers’ front office and ownership group out-earns, out-spends, out-maneuvers, out-develops, out-scouts, out-analyzes and out-R&Ds every team in baseball. It has created what could be the greatest dynasty in modern MLB history. The Dodgers have the top 26-man roster, the top 40-man roster and one of the best farm systems in the entire sport. They bring in record-breaking revenue, but give it right back to the fans by spending on players. They have become a model organization with a global reach.
Kyle Tucker’s defense will make a big difference for the Dodgers on top of what he brings with the bat. (Erin Hooley / Associated Press)
Biggest question: Will the next collective bargaining agreement include a hard salary cap, or some similar system, that will prevent the Dodgers from out-spending every other team in the future? And what type of champagne will they celebrate with this October?
Season prediction: First place and World Series winner
San Diego Padres
Grade: B-
Free agents:
*LHP Kyle Hart, 1-year, $1 million
*RHP Michael King 3-years, $75 million
*INF Sung Mun Song 4-years, $15 million
Trades: None
Hires:
* Craig Stammen, manager
Key takeaways: The Padres, financially hamstrung by long-term contracts, have had very little to spend this offseason, but still somehow found a way to re-sign starter Michael King. His return should enable them to at least compete for a wild-card berth this year.
Biggest question: Can rookie manager Craig Stammen lead this team back to the postseason?
Season prediction: Second place
San Francisco Giants
Grade: B
Free agents:
*RHP Tyler Mahle 1-year, $10 million
*LHP Sam Hentges 1-year, $1.4 million
*RHP Adrian Houser 2-years, $22 million
*RHP Jason Foley 1-year, $2 million
*OF Harrison Bader 2-years, $20.5 million
*2B Luis Arraez 1-year, $12 million
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Logan Martin from Royals for RHP Mason Black
*Acquired C Jancel Villarroel and international bonus pool money from Astros for RHP Kai-Wei Teng
Hirings: Tony Vitello, manager
Key takeaways: The Giants may not have done their offseason shopping at Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue but they did an excellent job finding undervalued players such as Tyler Mahle, Adrian Houser, Jason Foley, Harrison Bader and Luis Arraez. None of those five really helps the Giants close the gap between them and the Dodgers, but those moves do make them a huge threat for second place in the NL West and a wild-card berth. Bader is more of a fourth outfielder in my opinion, but he’s an important defensive center fielder for the pitching staff, and if Mahle can just stay healthy, he’s a solid mid-rotation starter. Arraez has won batting titles in both leagues and although he’s a below-average defender without pop, he does create traffic for the middle of the Giants’ order. I just wish they could have landed another top-of-the-rotation starter.
Biggest question: Will Tony Vitello, their outside-the-box managerial hire, lead them to the postseason in his first year? Who will play more games at first base for them this year — Rafael Devers or Bryce Eldridge?
Season prediction: Third place
American League East
Baltimore Orioles
Grade: A
Free Agents:
*1B Pete Alonso 5-years, $155 million
*RHP Ryan Helsley 2-years, $28 million
*RHP Zach Eflin 1-year, $10 million
*RHP Andrew Kittredge 1-year, $10 million
*OF Leody Taveras 1-year, $2 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Taylor Ward from Angels for RHP Grayson Rodriguez
*Acquired RHP Shane Baz from Rays for OF Slater de Brun, C Caden Bodine, RHP Michael Forret, OF Austin Overn and Competitive Balance Round A draft pick
*Acquired 2B Payton Eeles from Twins for C Alex Jackson
*Acquired INF/OF Bryan Ramos from White Sox for cash considerations
Key takeaways: The Orioles got serious this offseason, adding proven power to their lineup with the acquisitions of Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward. They then bolstered their starting rotation via a blockbuster trade with the Rays for promising righty Shane Baz, who is under contract through 2028. The O’s now appear to have one of the more lethal lineups in the league and the veteran additions should help their young core reach their potential.
Pete Alonso’s power bat should take the pressure off some of the Orioles’ young star hitters. (Lloyd Fox / Baltimore Sun / Tribune News Service via Getty Images)
Biggest question: Will the Orioles make one more big move this offseason, perhaps signing Framber Valdez or Zac Gallen? If they are able to add another frontline starter, they should get back to the playoffs.
Season prediction: Third place
Boston Red Sox
Grade: B+
Free Agents:
*LHP Ranger Suárez 5-years, $130 million
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Sonny Gray from Cardinals for LHP Brandon Clarke and RHP Richard Fitts
*Acquired 1B Willson Contreras from Cardinals for RHP Hunter Dobbins, RHP Yhoiker Fajardo and RHP Blake Aita
*Acquired RHP Johan Oviedo, LHP Tyler Samaniego and C Adonys Guzman from Pirates for OF Jhostynxon Garcia and RHP Jesus Travieso
*Acquired INF Tristan Gray from Rays for RHP Luis Guerrero, then acquired C Nate Baez from Twins for Gray
*Acquired C Ronny Hernandez from White Sox for RHP Chris Murphy
*Acquired OF Isaiah Jackson from Angels for INF Vaughn Grissom
*Acquired LHP Jake Bennett from Nationals for RHP Luis Perales
*Acquired RHP Gage Ziehl and a player to be named later from White Sox for RHP Jordan Hicks, RHP David Sandlin, two players to be named later and cash considerations
Key takeaways: The Red Sox failed in their attempt to bring back Alex Bregman and were unable to sign Bo Bichette as his replacement. However, they did upgrade at first base with the trade for Willson Contreras and they improved their rotation significantly with the pick-ups of Ranger Suárez and Sonny Gray, as well as depth options like Johan Oviedo and Jake Bennett.
Biggest question: Can Boston find a way to upgrade at second or third base by trading for Ketel Marte or making a similar acquisition between now and Opening Day?
Season prediction: Fourth place
New York Yankees
Grade: C
Free Agents:
*OF Cody Bellinger 5-years, $162.5 million
*LHP Ryan Yarbrough 1-year, $2.5 million
*INF Amed Rosario 1-year, $2.5 million
*RHP Paul Blackburn 1-year, $2 million
Qualifying Offers:
*OF Trent Grisham accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)
Trades:
*Acquired LHP Ryan Weathers from Marlins for OF Dillon Lewis, OF Brendan Jones, INF Dylan Jasso and INF Juan Matheus
*Acquired RHP Angel Chivilli from Rockies for 1B TJ Rumfield
*Acquired cash considerations from Angels for LHP Jayvien Sandridge
Key takeaways: The Yankees made re-signing Cody Bellinger their No. 1 priority this offseason. Although it took them until mid-January to get a deal done, at least they got it over the finish line, which in turn allows them to basically run back the team that went 94-68 last season, tying the Blue Jays for the most wins in the AL.
The only other significant move the Yankees made was the trade for lefty Ryan Weathers, who helps their starting pitching depth. They surprised the industry by giving outfielder Trent Grisham the qualifying offer, which he accepted. With Grisham and Bellinger returning, young outfielders Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones will likely have to wait — or be traded — to get a real opportunity to become everyday players. The Yankees will be counting on Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón and Anthony Volpe to successfully return from their injuries after starting the season on the IL. They are hopeful Volpe, Austin Wells and Ben Rice will have breakout seasons.
It took a while, but Cody Bellinger is back in pinstripes. (Ishika Samant / Getty Images)
Biggest question: Can Cole and Rodón bounce back from their injuries to give the Yankees one of the best starting rotations in baseball?
Season prediction: Second place
Tampa Bay Rays
Grade: C+
Free Agents:
*OF Jake Fraley 1-year, $3 million
*OF Cedric Mullins 1-year, $7 million
*LHP Steven Matz 2-years, $15 million
Trades:
*Acquired PTBNL or cash considerations from Royals for OF Kameron Misner
*Acquired RHP Luis Guerrero from Red Sox for INF Tristan Gray
*Acquired RHP Steven Wilson and RHP Yoendrys Gomez from White Sox for OF Everson Pereira and OF Tanner Murray
*Acquired RHP Tommy McCollum from Phillies for RHP Yoniel Curet
*As part of a three-team deal, acquired OF Jacob Melton and RHP Anderson Brito from Astros. Rays sent 2B Brandon Lowe, OF Jake Mangum and LHP Mason Montgomery to the Pirates in the deal
*Acquired OF Slater de Brun, C Caden Bodine, RHP Michael Forret, OF Austin Overn and Competitive Balance Round A draft pick from Orioles for RHP Shane Baz
*Acquired OF Justyn-Henry Malloy from Tigers for cash considerations
*Acquired INF Brett Wisely and LHP Ken Waldichuk from Braves for PTBNL or cash considerations
*As part of a three-team deal, acquired INF Gavin Lux from Reds and RHP Chris Clark from Angels for OF Josh Lowe, who went to the Angels
Key takeaways: The Rays made more trades than almost any other team but it seemed like they acquired more quantity than quality. Their biggest haul came from the Baz trade, but it will be years before we can assess the return in what amounted to a five-for-one swap. The Rays’ new ownership group made it clear, through the club’s actions, that they didn’t want to add significant salary to the payroll this offseason, instead emphasizing their efforts to get a new stadium.
Biggest question: Will the Rays finally get a new stadium deal done to create an improved revenue stream they can eventually put toward player payroll?
Season prediction: Fifth place
Toronto Blue Jays
Grade: A
Free Agents:
*RHP Dylan Cease 7-years, $210 million
*3B Kazuma Okamoto 4-years, $60 million
*RHP Tyler Rogers 3-years, $37 million
*RHP Cody Ponce 3-year, $30 million
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Chase Lee from Tigers for LHP Johan Simon
Key takeaways: The AL champions landed arguably the best starting pitcher on the open market in Dylan Cease, the only pitcher over the last five years with at least 30 starts, at least 200 innings and at least 200 strikeouts each season. I loved the gamble the Blue Jays took on Cody Ponce, who among free-agent pitchers has a chance to be this offseason’s best value signing. I also liked the pickup of Tyler Rogers, who gives their bullpen another reliever with a different look thanks to his submarine delivery.
Biggest questions: Can Kazuma Okamoto be at least an adequate defender at third base and how will his offense translate to MLB? Can Anthony Santander bounce back after a brutal first season in Toronto? How much will they miss Bo Bichette?
Season prediction: First place
American League Central
Chicago White Sox
Grade: B-
Free Agents:
*LHP Anthony Kay 2-years, $12 million
*3B Munetaka Murakami 2-years, $34 million
*LHP Sean Newcomb 1-year, $4.5 million
*RHP Seranthony Domínguez 2-years, $20 million
*OF Austin Hays 1-year, $6 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Everson Pereira and OF Tanner Murray from Rays for RHP Steven Wilson and RHP Yoendrys Gomez
*Acquired RHP Chris Murphy from Red Sox for C Ronny Hernandez
*Acquired INF Luisangel Acuña and RHP Truman Pauley from the Mets for CF Luis Robert Jr.
*Acquired RHP Jordan Hicks, RHP David Sandlin, two players to be named later and cash considerations for RHP Gage Ziehl and a player to be named later
*Acquired cash considerations for INF/OF Bryan Ramos
Key takeaways: I liked Chicago’s gamble on Japanese third baseman Munetaka Murakami, whose power should translate to 30 homers and around 180 to 200 strikeouts in MLB. That said, how much he gets on base and how well he plays defensively will determine if it was the right move. In addition, the White Sox were finally able to move on from Luis Robert Jr. They didn’t get a strong prospect return in the trade with the Mets, but they did shed his $20 million salary — and they later added Austin Hays to their outfield mix to help replace him and used some of the savings from Robert’s contract to take on the bulk of Jordan Hicks’ contract in a trade that netted them right-handed pitching prospect David Sandlin. The Hicks deal was particularly creative, as it adds another hard-throwing righty to their pitching staff and, more importantly, gives them a pitching prospect in Sandlin who should join their rotation sometime this season. They also signed hard-throwing reliever Seranthony Domínguez to serve as their closer.
Biggest question: When will their top pitching prospects, Noah Schultz and Hagen Smith, be major-league ready?
Season prediction: Fifth place
Cleveland Guardians
Grade: D
Free Agents:
*RHP Colin Holderman 1-year, $1.5 million
*RHP Connor Brogdon 1-year, $900,000
*RHP Shawn Armstrong 1-year, $5.5 million
Extension:
*3B José Ramírez 7-years, $175 million
Trades:
*Acquired cash considerations from Cardinals for LHP Justin Bruihl
Key takeaways: The Guardians need to add more offense, in particular a middle-of-the-order impact bat to help protect future Hall of Famer José Ramírez, who should now be a Guardian for the rest of his career after agreeing to another team-friendly contract extension. Unfortunately, beyond the Ramírez deal, all the Guardians have done this offseason is add inexpensive bullpen depth. The Guardians now will have to hope young hitters like Chase DeLauter, Kyle Manzardo and Travis Bazzana have breakout seasons. That could be the only way they score enough runs to win the NL Central again.
José Ramírez still needs more protection in the middle of the Cleveland lineup. (Nick Cammett / Getty Images)
Biggest question: Can the Guardians upgrade their outfield offense through a deal between now and the trade deadline?
Season prediction: Third place
Detroit Tigers
Grade: C+
Free Agents:
*RHP Kyle Finnegan 2-years, $19 million
*RHP Kenley Jansen 1-year, $11 million
*RHP Drew Anderson 1-year, $7 million
Qualifying Offers:
*2B Gleyber Torres accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)
Trades:
*Acquired LHP Johan Simon from Blue Jays for RHP Chase Lee
*Acquired cash considerations from Rays for OF Justyn-Henry Malloy
Key takeaways: The Tigers brought back Gleyber Torres and Kyle Finnegan on club-friendly deals, and I liked the pickup of closer Kenley Jansen to bolster the back end of their bullpen. However, they couldn’t sign Tarik Skubal to an extension or agree on a contract for this season, and it looks like an arbitration panel will decide his 2026 salary. The Tigers low-balled him with a $19 million offer, so they’ll probably lose the case, which would net Skubal a record-breaking $32 million deal. On the flip side, the Tigers know their future is bright because so many of their top prospects, like shortstop Kevin McGonigle, outfielder Max Clark and first baseman Josue Briceño, are getting close to the majors and all profile as future All-Star talents.
Biggest questions: Will they win or lose their arbitration case with Skubal? And will they hold onto him until the trade deadline, sign him to a long-term contract, or trade him before the season? It’s a story that is not going away this year, and it could become a distraction.
Season prediction: Second place
Kansas City Royals
Grade: B
Free Agents:
*RHP Alex Lange 1-year, $900,000
*OF Lane Thomas 1-year, $5.25 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Isaac Collins and RHP Nick Mears from Brewers for LHP Angel Zerpa
*Acquired OF Kameron Misner from Rays for PTBNL or cash considerations
*Acquired RHP Mason Black from Giants for RHP Logan Martin
*Acquired LHP Matt Strahm from Phillies for RHP Jonathan Bowlan
Extensions:
*3B Maikel Garcia 5-years, $57.5 million
*MGR Matt Quatraro 3 years
Key takeaways: The Royals have had a solid but not spectacular offseason. Their best moves upgraded their outfield depth (with Lane Thomas and Isaac Collins) and improved the left side of their bullpen (Matt Strahm). They also deserve praise for third baseman Maikel Garcia’s contract extension. Extending Matt Quatraro, one of the best young managers in baseball, was another smart move. His stock has risen in the industry.
Biggest question: What impact will the Royals’ new outfield dimensions have on their offense? Will it help them win more games, or just help both teams — home and away — hit more home runs? And how will it affect their pitching staff?
Season prediction: First place
Minnesota Twins
Grade: D
Free Agents:
*1B/DH Josh Bell 1-year, $7 million
*C Victor Caratini 2-years, $14 million
*LHP Taylor Rogers 1-year, $2 million
Trades:
*Acquired C Alex Jackson from Orioles for 2B Payton Eeles
*Acquired 1B Eric Wagaman from Marlins for LHP Kade Bragg
*Acquired IF Tristan Gray from Red Sox for C Nate Baez
*Acquired cash considerations from Mariners for C Jhonny Pereda
*Acquired RHP Jace Kaminska and cash from Rockies for 2B Edouard Julien and RHP Pierson Ohl
Key takeaways: The Twins have had a dismal offseason. Their only significant moves were signing first baseman Josh Bell, reliever Taylor Rogers and catcher Victor Caratini. Those pick-ups helped their roster depth but likely won’t improve their win-loss record. And now they’ll enter spring training without longtime baseball head Derek Falvey, after announcing on Friday that he and the team were “mutually parting ways.”
The Twins need another healthy season from Byron Buxton. (Brad Rempel / Imagn Images)
Biggest question: Can their best players — Pablo López, Joe Ryan, Byron Buxton and Royce Lewis — all stay healthy for an entire season?
Season prediction: Fourth place
American League West
Athletics
Grade: C-
Free Agents:
*RHP Mark Leiter Jr. 1-year, $3 million
Trades:
*Acquired 2B/OF Jeff McNeil from Mets for RHP Yordan Rodriguez
Extensions:
*LF Tyler Soderstrom 7-years, $86 million
*SS Jacob Wilson 7-years, $70 million
Key takeaways: The A’s best moves were extending left fielder Tyler Soderstrom and shortstop Jacob Wilson on club-friendly deals. They continue to build a strong young core for their eventual move to Las Vegas. They also added some offense by trading for second baseman Jeff McNeil. However, they weren’t able to improve their starting rotation enough this offseason to become legitimate contenders.
Biggest questions: Can they extend first baseman Nick Kurtz, as well? Can they upgrade at third base and in the rotation between now and the trade deadline?
Season prediction: Fourth place
Houston Astros
Grade: C+
Free Agents:
*RHP Tatsuya Imai 3-years, $54 million
*RHP Nate Pearson, 1-year, $1.35 million
*RHP Ryan Weiss, 1-year, $2.6 million
Trades:
*Acquired INF Nick Allen from Braves for INF/OF Mauricio Dubón
*As part of a three-team deal, acquired RHP Mike Burrows from Pirates for OF Jacob Melton and RHP Anderson Brito, who went to Rays
*Acquired RHP Kai-Wei Teng from Giants for C Jancel Villarroel and international bonus pool money
Key takeaways: The Astros will let free agent Framber Valdez walk and are replacing him by gambling on two pitchers who played overseas last year, Tatsuya Imai and Ryan Weiss. They also bolstered their rotation by acquiring Mike Burrows from the Pirates in a three-team deal. How much success that trio has this year might ultimately decide whether Houston can get back to the postseason.
Tatsuya Imai will give the Astros a new look in their rotation this season. (Alex Slitz / Getty Images)
Biggest question: Will the Astros extend the contracts of general manager Dana Brown and manager Joe Espada during the regular season, or make them wait until the season ends?
Season prediction: Second place
Los Angeles Angels
Grade: C+
Free Agents:
*RHP Kirby Yates 1-year, $5 million
*LHP Drew Pomeranz 1-year, $4 million
*RHP Jordan Romano 1-year, $2 million
*RHP Alek Manoah 1-year, $1.95 million
*3B Yoán Moncada 1-year, $4 million
Trades:
*Acquired RHP Grayson Rodriguez from Orioles for OF Taylor Ward
*As part of a three-team deal, acquired OF Josh Lowe from Rays for LHP Brock Burke, who went to Reds, and RHP Chris Clark, who went to Rays
*Acquired INF Vaughn Grissom from Red Sox for OF Isaiah Jackson
*Acquired LHP Jayvien Sandridge from Yankees for cash considerations
Hirings: Kurt Suzuki, manager
Key takeaways: The Angels had a fascinating offseason, taking on arguably more risks than any other team. It started with hiring former major-league catcher Kurt Suzuki as manager on just a one-year contract and then gambling on several pitchers with injury histories — Grayson Rodriguez, Alek Manoah, Kirby Yates, Drew Pomeranz and Jordan Romano. All of them have had past success, but will they spend more time on the injured list or the active roster? I did like the Angels’ pick-up of outfielder Josh Lowe and would have made the trade for Rodriguez as well because of his high ceiling.
Biggest questions: Will general manager Perry Minasian and manager Kurt Suzuki keep their jobs if the team isn’t competitive? How much is left in the tank for Mike Trout?
Season prediction: Fifth place
Seattle Mariners
Grade: A-
Free Agents:
*1B Josh Naylor 5-years, $92.5 million
*OF Rob Refsnyder 1-year, $6.25 million
*C Andrew Knizer 1-year, $1 million
Trades:
*Acquired LHP Jose A. Ferrer for C Harry Ford and RHP Isaac Lyon
*Acquired RHP Yosver Zulueta from Reds for RHP Dusty Revis
*Acquired RHP Cooper Criswell from Mets for cash considerations
*Acquired C Jhonny Pereda from Twins for cash considerations
Key takeaways: The Mariners made re-signing Josh Naylor their top offseason priority, and they wisely got it done before he could really test the open market. I loved the trade for Jose A. Ferrer, who has a chance to develop into one of the best left-handed relievers in the league. They also boosted their depth by landing utilityman Rob Refsnyder, who crushes lefties.
Biggest questions: Will the Mariners be able to add one more bat either for third base or a corner outfield spot between now and the trade deadline? How quickly will their top infield prospects develop and make an impact on their lineup? Can their starting pitching stay healthy and pitch up to their potential?
Season prediction: First place
Texas Rangers
Grade: B
Free Agents:
*C Danny Jansen 2-years, $14.5 million
*RHP Jakob Junis 1-year, $4 million
*LHP Tyler Alexander 1-year, $1 million
*RHP Alexis Díaz 1-year, $1 million
*RHP Chris Martin 1-year, $4 million
Trades:
*Acquired OF Brandon Nimmo from Mets for 2B Marcus Semien
*Acquired LHP MacKenzie Gore from the Nationals for IF Gavin Fien, 1B Abimelec Ortiz, SS Devin Fitz-Gerald, RHP Alejandro Rosario and CF Yeremy Cabrera
Hirings:
*Skip Schumaker, manager
Key takeaways: I loved the Rangers’ decision to hire Skip Schumaker as their new manager after watching him win NL Manager of the Year with the Marlins a few years back. I also thought they won the Marcus Semien-for-Brandon Nimmo trade considering Nimmo is three years younger, hits for more power, and Semien’s production has been declining. The best move they made was landing MacKenzie Gore, who upgrades their starting rotation as he joins veterans Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi and the up-and-coming Jack Leiter, Jacob Latz and Kumar Rocker.
Biggest question: If they’re within striking distance at the trade deadline, will the Rangers have any financial flexibility to improve their roster?
Season prediction: Third place
