If MLB.com’s 2026 bold offseason predictions are even half right, baseball fans might be in for one of the wildest Hot Stove seasons in recent memory.
With nine daring scenarios—blockbuster trades, surprise free-agent moves, and a few eyebrow-raising alliances—the report sketches out a winter full of twists and strategy. Teams are gearing up to shake up their rosters, and there’s a real chance some of MLB’s biggest names will show up in new uniforms by Opening Day 2026.
Potential Tarik Skubal Trade Could Shake Up the AL Central
One of the boldest predictions has the Detroit Tigers possibly moving their ace, Tarik Skubal. It all depends on whether Detroit wants to lock him up long-term.
If they hesitate, maybe the Mets jump in with an aggressive offer. That’d make it clear they’re ready to win now with their current core.
Implications for the Mets and Tigers
Skubal could give the Mets some much-needed rotation stability next to Kodai Senga. The Tigers, meanwhile, would be betting on a haul of young talent and future payroll flexibility.
It’s risky for Detroit, but sometimes you have to gamble if you want to change your franchise’s direction.
Kyle Tucker’s Next Destination: Canada or California?
Another spicy scenario: Kyle Tucker to the Toronto Blue Jays. Adding his bat would give the lineup more thump alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette.
The Dodgers have the money to make a play, but the prediction hints they’ll pass on Tucker this time around.
Tucker’s Fit in Toronto
Tucker’s lefty power and glove could balance out Toronto’s offense. If he heads north, the Jays would be sending a message—they’re all in on chasing a pennant.
Japanese Stars Heading to New Homes
The Dodgers reportedly plan to skip Japan’s top free agents in 2026. Instead, MLB.com links three big names to new teams:
Murakami in the Bronx? That’d give the Yankees a jolt of offense. Imai could anchor the Cubs’ rotation for a while.
Okamoto landing in Pittsburgh would be a shock, honestly. The Pirates rarely outspend rivals, but maybe they’re ready to change that script.
Pete Alonso’s Future Takes an Unforeseen Turn
This one’s wild: Pete Alonso leaves the Mets and heads to the Cincinnati Reds. With Terry Francona now managing, Cincinnati wants more power and a leader for their young roster.
Why the Reds Make Sense
Alonso could totally transform the Reds’ lineup. He’d bring some veteran swagger to pair with rising stars like Elly De La Cruz.
This move wouldn’t be about market size—it’d be about fit and chasing a championship, plain and simple.
Blue Jays Reload Around Bo Bichette
Toronto’s projected to re-sign Bo Bichette, beef up their bullpen, and even chase veteran ace Justin Verlander. If Verlander joins, it’d be his first time in a non-orange uniform, which just feels odd.
Rotation Depth is Key
With Verlander, Toronto would have one of the deepest rotations in the AL. Mixing youth and experience could make them a real threat in October.
Giants and Orioles Eye Pitching Upgrades
The San Francisco Giants are predicted to land Framber Valdez and closer Edwin DÃaz. The Baltimore Orioles could circle back to the Brewers, this time targeting Freddy Peralta for their rotation.
San Francisco would have a nasty Valdez-DÃaz combo at the back end. Peralta could steady Baltimore’s young staff and help them take the next step.
Marlins on the Hunt for Bats
The Miami Marlins have some financial wiggle room and might surprise folks by chasing offense. MLB.com points to Ryan O’Hearn or Eugenio Suárez as possible targets.
Adding proven bats could help balance Miami’s pitching-heavy roster. If it clicks, maybe they finally make that playoff leap.
Ranger Suárez Avoids Texas Rangers Drama
Despite the name, Ranger Suárez isn’t headed to Texas. Instead, he’s predicted to join the Tigers, giving Detroit a steady lefty even if Skubal’s traded away.
A Contending Mindset in Detroit
That move would send a clear message. Even if some players leave, the Tigers aren’t ready to fade into irrelevance.
Suárez has a track record that shows durability and postseason-caliber pitching. Those traits could inspire some real confidence in Motor City.
Here is the source article for this story: Skubal to Mets? Framber by the Bay? Bold (but feasible) Hot Stove predictions
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