Introduction

The MLB offseason is still very much alive as several marquee players, including Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, and Cody Bellinger, remain without contracts. Yet, with less than four weeks until pitchers and catchers report for spring training, it’s time to analyze and rank the best and worst offseasons in Major League Baseball thus far. This article explores which teams have met or exceeded expectations and which have fallen short as the league prepares for the 2026 season.

The Five Best Offseasons

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

2025 Record: 93-69, 1st in NL West (World Series Champs)

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Edwin Díaz, SS Miguel Rojas, INF Andy Ibáñez

The Dodgers have remained a formidable force, acquiring star reliever Edwin Díaz to bolster a bullpen that struggled last season. Despite concerns about Díaz's durability, his ERA of 1.63 in 2025 puts him at the top of the National League. Rojas adds depth after his crucial performance in the World Series, while Ibáñez offers versatility off the bench. As it stands, the Dodgers project to have the highest Wins Above Replacement (WAR) in MLB, making them a top contender for a three-peat.

2. Atlanta Braves

2025 Record: 76-86, 4th in NL East

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Robert Suarez, LF Mike Yastrzemski, SS Ha-Seong Kim

While the Braves mostly focused on retaining their own talent, the addition of Robert Suarez, a two-time All-Star, strengthens a bullpen that previously finished 19th in ERA. Mike Yastrzemski brings needed offensive capability, while the retention of Ha-Seong Kim could yield a significant boost if he can replicate his past performances. The Braves seem poised to return to contention with their mix of old and new.

3. Toronto Blue Jays

2025 Record: 94-68, 1st in AL East (AL Champs)

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Dylan Cease, 3B Kazuma Okamoto

The Blue Jays have made impressive moves, highlighted by the acquisition of Dylan Cease to enhance their pitching rotation. Kazuma Okamoto is expected to fill the void left by Bo Bichette with his promising offensive capabilities. Despite not being finished with their roster construction, the Blue Jays' strong acquisitions point towards a championship-caliber team to watch in 2026.

4. Chicago Cubs

2025 Record: 92-70, 2nd in NL Central

Key Offseason Additions: 3B Alex Bregman, RHP Edward Cabrera

The Cubs have turned heads with their major signing of Alex Bregman, solidifying their third base and providing an impact player to boost the lineup. The acquisition of Edward Cabrera adds depth to their pitching rotation, which is crucial for a team aiming to contend seriously in the Central. With substantial additions, the Cubs have their sights set on dethroning the Milwaukee Brewers.

5. Baltimore Orioles

2025 Record: 75-87, 5th in AL East

Key Offseason Additions: 1B Pete Alonso, RHP Ryan Helsley

The Orioles have taken a notable step forward by acquiring Pete Alonso, a powerful presence at first base, which has the potential to revitalize their offensive output. The addition of Ryan Helsley will help strengthen the bullpen, giving the Orioles a competitive edge they lacked last season. With these changes, the Orioles look underappreciated heading into 2026 but project well based on their offseason moves.

The Five Worst Offseasons

1. San Diego Padres

2025 Record: 90-72, 2nd in NL West

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Michael King

The Padres have faced a troubling offseason marked by significant departures, losing key players, including Dylan Cease and Robert Suarez. Although they added Michael King, the overall outlook remains grim as they aim to regroup in a competitive NL West where they are falling behind.

2. Milwaukee Brewers

2025 Record: 97-65, 1st in NL Central

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Brandon Woodruff

While the Brewers managed to retain Brandon Woodruff, concerns loom over his durability following injury setbacks. Their lack of aggressive moves during the offseason puts them at risk of stagnation, especially against a re-energized Cubs team. Fans are left wondering about the Brewers' offseason strategy and the long-term health of their roster.

3. Cleveland Guardians

2025 Record: 88-74, 1st in AL Central

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Shawn Armstrong

Despite having room in their budget to make significant changes, the Guardians have remained inactive this offseason. With rising competition in the AL Central, their failure to acquire a much-needed offensive upgrade leaves them vulnerable heading into 2026.

4. New York Mets

2025 Record: 83-79, 2nd in NL East

Key Offseason Additions: RHP Devin Williams

Although the Mets have made some signings, including the solid acquisition of Devin Williams, the overall impact does not match the expectations of a team of their stature. Larger market teams like the Mets should be making big moves, yet they have only made lateral adjustments. Their fans have reasons to feel disappointed thus far this offseason.

5. New York Yankees

2025 Record: 94-68, 2nd in AL East

Key Offseason Additions: CF Trent Grisham

The Yankees went to the World Series in 2024 yet seem to be treating their offseason as an optional exercise thus far. Their hesitance to pursue crucial signings raises concerns, especially with star Aaron Judge still in his prime. Fans are anxious as they watch the team make only small moves with no substantial upgrades.

Conclusion

The MLB offseason continues to unfold, with many teams still having time to make strategic moves before the 2026 season gets underway. While some teams have positioned themselves as potential powerhouses, others are left scrambling to catch up. As spring training approaches, the landscape of baseball could still shift significantly.