This article dives into the late-stage Major League Baseball offseason. It focuses on teams still scrambling for upgrades as spring training creeps up.
Some contenders made their big moves early and grabbed headlines. But, honestly, it’s surprising how many clubs haven’t finished shopping for pitching or infield help.
Trade rumors and free-agent talk are everywhere. Whatever happens next could really shape the 2026 season.
The Offseason’s Big Moves Set the Stage
The winter market exploded when several powerhouse franchises pulled off major additions. Those moves basically wrapped up their offseasons and drew a sharp line between teams that are set and those still searching.
Contenders That Checked Every Box
The Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, and Red Sox wasted no time. Los Angeles grabbed Kyle Tucker—another elite bat for that already stacked lineup.
New York brought back Cody Bellinger. That keeps things steady and gives them extra defensive options.
The Mets tackled both their rotation and lineup, landing Freddy Peralta and signing Bo Bichette. Boston shored up its pitching by adding lefty Ranger Suárez.
Eight Teams Still Searching for Answers
Deals are flying around, but eight clubs are still active as spring training gets closer. Most of them want starting pitching or a reliable everyday bat.
Athletics, Braves, and Brewers Eye Veteran Arms
The Athletics need a veteran starter behind Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs. They could look at:
Atlanta handled its bullpen and infield depth. But the rotation? Still feels shaky. Maybe they chase someone like Framber Valdez, Zac Gallen, or Chris Bassitt for a short-term fix.
The Brewers traded Peralta and now lean hard on Brandon Woodruff. Bringing back Quintana or signing another experienced arm might help steady things.
Middle Infield and Versatility in Demand
Some clubs aren’t chasing stars. They’re after balance—guys who can play multiple spots and eat innings.
Giants and Mariners Seek Flexibility
The Giants picked up Tyler Mahle, Adrian Houser, and Harrison Bader. Still, they need a second baseman and maybe another pitcher.
Brendan Donovan and Nico Hoerner both make sense here.
Seattle re-signed Josh Naylor but lost Jorge Polanco. That leaves a gap in the infield for now.
Someone like Donovan could hold things down while their prospects get ready.
Contenders with One Missing Piece
Some teams are built to win right now but just need that final addition to feel complete.
Orioles, Phillies, and Red Sox Still Tweaking
The Orioles added Pete Alonso, Taylor Ward, Shane Baz, and Ryan Helsley. But they still need a true workhorse starter. Baltimore might keep chasing arms like Valdez or Gallen.
The Phillies mostly kept their core together. Still, a swingman or depth starter would help until Andrew Painter is ready, and they’re eyeing a right-handed outfielder too.
Even after picking up Suárez, Sonny Gray, and Willson Contreras, the Red Sox are short an everyday infielder with Alex Bregman gone. Eugenio Suárez, Isaac Paredes, or maybe Brendan Donovan could fill that gap.
The Final Stretch of the MLB Offseason
As camps open and rosters start to take shape, some last-minute moves are still happening. These deals might not grab headlines, but honestly, they could end up mattering a lot more than people think.
Depth wins in October, plain and simple. Teams that finish strong now—well, they just might be the ones celebrating when the games really count.
Here is the source article for this story: 8 teams that could still have some big moves up their sleeves
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