MLB Offseason Report Card: Analyzing Team Moves Ahead of Spring Training
As the MLB offseason progresses and teams prepare for spring training in February, a reflection on the team's actions during the winter is warranted. This evaluation focuses primarily on player transactions, assessing which teams have made significant gains, losses, or extensions. Additionally, a managerial hire that surprised many in the sport is highlighted, contributing to a broader understanding of each team's offseason performance.
Beginning with an analysis of the Arizona Diamondbacks, the team receives a grade of B. Notable additions include right-handed pitcher Corbin Burnes and first baseman Josh Naylor. However, the losses of first baseman Christian Walker, designated hitter Joc Pederson, and others raise some questions about their ability to replace Pederson's impressive .923 OPS against right-handed pitching. Still, the signing of Burnes for six years and $210 million boosts their rotation significantly, considering they ranked near the bottom of MLB in rWAR last season.
The Oakland Athletics earn an A for their offseason moves, bringing in key players like right-handed pitcher Luis Severino and left-handed pitcher Jeffrey Springs. Even though the team has not been traditionally strong, these additions, alongside the retention of designated hitter Brent Rooker, indicate a promising direction as they improve their roster. While their spending has been fueled by revenue-sharing dollars, Athletics fans should appreciate the notable progress.
In contrast, the Atlanta Braves receive a disappointing D. While they added left fielder Jurickson Profar and outfielder Bryan De La Cruz, the losses of pitchers Max Fried, Charlie Morton, and A.J. Minter could significantly impact their competitiveness. Despite signing Profar for three years and $42 million, the Braves still find themselves at a disadvantage as they have not replaced their key losses, especially with their competitors in the National League actively strengthening their rosters.
The Baltimore Orioles also receive a D due to their offseason activities. The team lost ace pitcher Corbin Burnes and leading home run hitter Anthony Santander without making sufficiently impactful additions. While they hope to replace them collectively with signings like Charlie Morton and Tomoyuki Sugano, the lack of a standout ace or power hitter is concerning. Moreover, extensions for core players remain unaddressed, adding frustration to their offseason.
On a brighter note, the Boston Red Sox earn a B for enhancing their rotation with additions such as Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler, elevating their pitching staff from the previous season. However, the departure of outfielder Tyler O'Neill and others leaves questions about their effectiveness against right-handed pitching and the overall state of the bullpen.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs also receive a B, highlighted by the acquisition of right fielder Kyle Tucker, which appears to be a significant step forward in replacing Cody Bellinger. Still, concerns linger regarding declining payroll despite impressive revenue streams, leaving fans questioning the team's long-term plans.
The Chicago White Sox earn a C grade, with some notable additions, including left-handed pitcher Martín Pérez. However, the absence of key prospects in the trade market raises concerns about the team's competitive edge moving forward. While they have secured younger talents, the lack of major trades for established stars has fans more anxious than hopeful.
In Cincinnati, the Reds receive a score of B, thanks in part to the hiring of Terry Francona as manager. Their trade for infielder Gavin Lux is encouraging, as he brings potential for growth compared to Jonathan India, who has struggled since his Rookie of the Year season. Additionally, retaining right-handed pitcher Nick Martinez adds depth to their rotation.
The Cleveland Guardians also earn a B, with the addition of ace pitcher Shane Bieber and other valuable players like Carlos Santana and Paul Sewald. While they have suffered losses in key areas, including second baseman Andrés Giménez, the team's fresh approach to acquisitions signals a promising direction.
Conversely, the Colorado Rockies received an F, reflecting the minimal effort they put into team improvements during the offseason. Their signings of Thairo Estrada, Kyle Farmer, and Jacob Stallings have not made a significant impact on their overall prospects, and a lack of bold trades or major signings reveals a troubling pattern for the franchise.
The Detroit Tigers earn a C for modest additions, including Gleyber Torres. However, there are concerns that the absence of high-impact signings may not meet the expectations of a fan base eager for more significant upgrades.
In Houston, the Astros receive a D grade handed down primarily for losses, including right fielder Kyle Tucker and pitcher Justin Verlander. The team has made strategic signings like Christian Walker, yet the overall talent pool appears thinner than it was in the previous season.
The Kansas City Royals receive a C, bolstered by the retention of right-handed pitcher Michael Wacha. The trade involving Jonathan India and Brady Singer raises questions about their long-term strategy, with the attempts to gain value in that deal leaving the fan base puzzled.
The Los Angeles Angels also fall into the C category, primarily due to their focus on rebuilding after a historically poor season. By signing players like Yusei Kikuchi and Jorge Soler, they indicate an interest in contention for next year, yet the continued struggles of the franchise may overshadow these signings.
The Los Angeles Dodgers head into the season with an A+ rating due to impressive additions such as Blake Snell and Teoscar Hernández. By maintaining an aggressive approach in free agency, the Dodgers have solidified their position as perennial contenders with a stacked roster aiming for another World Series title.
The Miami Marlins are in dire shape with an F grade following a lack of significant additions and the loss of key players like Jesús Luzardo. Without a clear direction or vision from ownership, fans have to question the team's commitment to future success.
In Milwaukee, the Brewers earn a D as they navigated difficult losses, highlighted by the departure of star shortstop Willy Adames. While they did acquire Nestor Cortes, the impact of losing top-level talent casts a shadow on their offseason.
The Minnesota Twins also receive an F for their offseason inactivity amid ownership changes that have left the franchise in limbo. Fans are left frustrated as the team took a step back following their previous playoff success.
The New York Mets receive an A thanks to significant signings like Juan Soto and others. Despite some losses, their acquisition of top-tier talent has set a strong foundation for an ambitious 2025 season.
The New York Yankees score a C for their offseason maneuvers, including signings that saw big names like Juan Soto departing amidst the arrival of impactful players. While there is new talent, the challenges of losing top-caliber contributors may hinder their competitive edge.
The Philadelphia Phillies earn a B due to solid additions like Jesús Luzardo and Max Kepler, shoring up areas of need as they prepare to build upon their recent performances.
The Pittsburgh Pirates receive a D after unenthusiastic additions and losses that fail to indicate progress for a team that remains in a rebuilding phase.
Similarly, the San Diego Padres find themselves with an F as they did not bolster their roster following a successful season, instead opting to part ways with several notable contributors, leaving fans concerned about the team’s future.
Finally, the San Francisco Giants receive a C for their acquisitions of Willy Adames and Justin Verlander, but questions remain about the effectiveness of these signings given the talent they’ve lost and the adjustments they must make moving forward.
Overall, as the 2025 MLB season approaches, each team’s offseason moves have set a foundation for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.