Introduction

The offseason is heating up, and with the MLB postseason showcasing the importance of a strong pitching rotation, teams are gearing up for strategic moves. Led by World Series MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Los Angeles Dodgers exemplified the adage that 'pitching wins championships.' As free agency unfolds, several key starters have decided to stay put, while others are expected to move as teams look to solidify their rotations for the upcoming 2026 season.

Early Free Agency Moves

Among the notable decisions, both Brandon Woodruff and Shota Imanaga opted to accept qualifying offers, shaking up the market. Furthermore, a trade saw former top prospect Grayson Rodriguez transition from the Orioles to the Angels, enhancing the latter's rotation.

Projected Starting Rotations

As we await further transactions, here’s a glimpse at projected starting rotations for various MLB teams:

Arizona Diamondbacks

• 1. RHP Merrill Kelly
• 2. RHP Ryne Nelson
• 3. RHP Tyler Mahle
• 4. LHP Eduardo Rodriguez
• 5. RHP Brandon Pfaadt

The D-backs are focusing on short-term solutions after their significant investment in Corbin Burnes last offseason.

Atlanta Braves

• 1. LHP Chris Sale
• 2. RHP Spencer Strider
• 3. RHP Spencer Schwellenbach
• 4. RHP Hurston Waldrep
• 5. RHP Grant Holmes

The Braves will look to manage the return of Reynaldo López from injury while also evaluating young talents.

Los Angeles Angels

• 1. LHP Yusei Kikuchi
• 2. RHP Michael King
• 3. RHP José Soriano
• 4. RHP Grayson Rodriguez
• 5. RHP Walker Buehler

The Angels are banking on a healthy Rodriguez to bolster their rotation alongside Kikuchi.

Chicago White Sox

• 1. RHP Hunter Greene
• 2. LHP Andrew Abbott
• 3. LHP Nick Lodolo
• 4. RHP Brady Singer
• 5. RHP Chase Burns

Brady Singer could be a trade candidate depending on how the White Sox's offseason strategies unfold.

New York Mets

• 1. RHP Freddy Peralta
• 2. LHP David Peterson
• 3. RHP Nolan McLean
• 4. LHP Sean Manaea
• 5. RHP Tatsuya Imai

The Mets are actively pursuing trades to reshape their rotation in a competitive offseason.

Conclusion

This offseason will undoubtedly be eventful as teams finalize their strategies and make impactful decisions that will shape their 2026 campaigns.