![\"Robert](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/GettyImages-2238642073-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
\n Robert Suarez and Raisel Iglesias give the Braves a formidable one-two punch at the back of their bullpen. (Michael Reaves \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n
Biggest question: Will the Braves\u2019 starting rotation stay healthy and return to prominence? How will Spencer Schwellenbach and Reynaldo L\u00f3pez fare as they return from injuries, and can Chris Sale and Spencer Strider get back to performing at their best?<\/p>\n
Season prediction: Second place<\/p>\n
Miami Marlins <\/p>\n
Grade: B<\/p>\n
Free agents:<\/p>\n
*RHP Pete Fairbanks 1-year, $15 million<\/p>\n
*INF\/OF Christopher Morel 1-year, $2 million<\/p>\n
Trades:<\/p>\n
*Acquired OF Owen Caissie, INF Cristian Hernandez and INF Edgardo DeLeon from Cubs for RHP Edward Cabrera<\/p>\n
*Acquired OF Dillon Lewis, OF Brendan Jones, INF Dylan Jasso and INF Juan Matheus from Yankees for LHP Ryan Weathers<\/p>\n
*Acquired cash considerations from Giants for OF Joey Wiemer<\/p>\n
*Acquired OF Ethan O\u2019Donnell from Reds for OF Dane Myers<\/p>\n
*Acquired OF Esteury Ruiz from Dodgers for RHP Adriano Marrero<\/p>\n
*Acquired LHP Kade Bragg from Twins for 1B Eric Wagaman<\/p>\n
Key takeaways: The Marlins received solid trade returns for pitchers Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers, who both carry high injury risk. They received a boatload of prospects in those deals, highlighted by high-end outfield prospects Owen Caissie and Dillon Lewis. The Marlins did a great job of building their prospect depth, though Keith Law still ranks their farm system<\/a> in the bottom-third of the league.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can Sandy Alcantara regain his Cy Young Award-winning form? If so, it would give the Marlins another big trade chip at the deadline.<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fourth place<\/p>\n New York Mets<\/p>\n Grade: A-<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *3B Bo Bichette 3-years, $126 million<\/p>\n *RHP Devin Williams 3-years, $51 million<\/p>\n *INF Jorge Polanco 2-years, $40 million<\/p>\n *RHP Luke Weaver 2-years, $22 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired 2B Marcus Semien from Rangers for OF Brandon Nimmo<\/p>\n *Acquired CF Luis Robert Jr. from White Sox for INF Luisangel Acu\u00f1a and RHP Truman Pauley<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Freddy Peralta and RHP Tobias Myers from Brewers for RHP Brandon Sproat and INF\/OF Jett Williams<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Yordan Rodriguez from Athletics for 2B\/OF Jeff McNeil<\/p>\n *Acquired cash considerations for RHP Cooper Criswell<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Mets had a slow start to their offseason that featured the departures of several fan-favorite players: Pete Alonso and Edwin D\u00edaz (in free agency) and Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil (in trades). However, as we near the end of the offseason, they have rebuilt the team into a serious pennant contender, with a much deeper lineup, a stronger defensive team up the middle, and better arms at the top of their rotation.<\/p>\n Luis Robert Jr. is a plus defender in center with speed and power, but also has chase, strikeout and focus issues that have plagued him. Bo Bichette has led the American League in hits twice but will be asked to move to third base, a position he\u2019s never played in the majors. Jorge Polanco has 20-homer power but can\u2019t match the power of Alonso, whom he\u2019s replacing, and will be moving to a position (first base) he has little experience playing.<\/p>\n Freddy Peralta gives the Mets another top-of-the-rotation starter to go with rookie Nolan McLean. They also added Devin Williams and Luke Weaver to replace Edwin D\u00edaz and Tyler Rogers at the back of the bullpen. These upgrades seem good enough to get the Mets back to the postseason.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can Kodai Senga stay healthy? If he\u2019s at his best, alongside Peralta and McLean, it would give the Mets a trio of starters that could thrive in the postseason.<\/p>\n Season prediction: First place<\/p>\n Philadelphia Phillies<\/p>\n Grade: C+<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *DH Kyle Schwarber 5-years, $150 million<\/p>\n *C J.T. Realmuto 3-years, $45 million<\/p>\n *RHP Brad Keller 2-years, $22 million<\/p>\n *RF Adolis Garc\u00eda 1-year, $10 million<\/p>\n *RHP Zach Pop 1-year, $900,000<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Yoniel Curet from Rays for RHP Tommy McCollum<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Jonathan Bowlan from Royals for LHP Matt Strahm<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Kyle Backhus from Diamondbacks for OF Avery Owusu-Asiedu<\/p>\n Key takeaways: Retaining Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto was key for the Phillies,\u00a0and I like that they took a chance on Adolis Garc\u00eda<\/a> as a potential rebound candidate. They are expected to give rookie Justin Crawford an opportunity as the everyday center fielder, which might end up being their best move, as he could add the speed and athleticism (along with plus defense) this team needs. Righty Brad Keller gives the Phillies a quality set-up man for closer Jhoan Duran, adding to their high-leverage options, though they chose to trade lefty Matt Strahm.<\/p>\n \n The Phillies are taking a chance on Adolis Garc\u00eda, who is searching for a bounce-back season. (Ron Jenkins \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest questions: Have they kept this team together too long? Can Zack Wheeler and rookie Andrew Painter stay healthy and live up to expectations? Can Aaron Nola return to form?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Third place<\/p>\n Washington Nationals<\/p>\n Grade: A-<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *LHP Foster Griffin 1-year, $5.5 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired C Harry Ford and RHP Isaac Lyon from Mariners for LHP Jose A. Ferrer<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Luis Perales from Red Sox for LHP Jake Bennett<\/p>\n *Acquired IF Gavin Fien, 1B Abimelec Ortiz, SS Devin Fitz-Gerald, RHP Alejandro Rosario and CF Yeremy Cabrera from the Rangers for LHP MacKenzie Gore<\/p>\n Hires:<\/p>\n *Paul Taboni, president of baseball operations<\/p>\n *Ani Kilambi, general manager<\/p>\n *Blake Butera, manager<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Nationals made three significant trades under their new front office leadership. In the first two, they acquired one of the best offensive catching prospects in the game, Harry Ford, and one of the best pitching prospects in the Red Sox farm system, Luis Perales. The best trade the Nationals made was the swap with the Rangers that landed them 2025 first-round pick Gavin Fien, who now becomes their long-term answer at shortstop. In addition to Fien, they added four more prospects in that deal, including right-hander Alejandro Rosario, who has a strong arsenal and upside, though he will miss the 2026 season as he deals with a torn UCL.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Will shortstop CJ Abrams be the next player the Nats trade?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fifth place<\/p>\n National League CentralChicago Cubs<\/p>\n Grade: A<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *3B Alex Bregman, 5-years, $175 million<\/p>\n *RHP Phil Maton 2-years, $14.5 million<\/p>\n *RHP Hunter Harvey 1-year, $6 million<\/p>\n *LHP Hoby Milner 1-year, $3.75 million<\/p>\n *LHP Caleb Thielbar 1-year, $2.75 million<\/p>\n *RHP Jacob Webb 1-year, $1.5 million<\/p>\n Qualifying Offers:<\/p>\n *LHP Shota Imanaga accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Edward Cabrera from Marlins for OF Owen Caissie, INF Cristian Hernandez and INF Edgardo DeLeon<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Cubs have had arguably their best offseason since president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer took over in November 2020. They bolstered their starting rotation by acquiring Edward Cabrera, who has three years of team control remaining. They rebuilt the bullpen, adding five new relievers. But they made their biggest splash with the Alex Bregman signing. In addition to what he brings to the field, Bregman gives the Cubs an instant upgrade in team leadership and clubhouse culture. They lost Kyle Tucker in free agency but still have one of the best defensive outfields with Gold Glovers Ian Happ and Pete Crow-Armstrong.<\/p>\n \n Alex Bregman is a big addition for the Cubs on the field and in the clubhouse. (Geoff Stellfox \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest question: Will starting pitcher Justin Steele (elbow surgery) be able to return to the active roster during the first half of the season and regain\u00a0the form that had him in the ERA title race when he suffered the injury last season?<\/p>\n Season prediction: First place<\/p>\n Cincinnati Reds<\/p>\n Grade: B<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Emilio Pag\u00e1n 2-years, $20 million<\/p>\n *LHP Caleb Ferguson 1-year, $4.5 million<\/p>\n *OF JJ Bleday 1-year, $1.4 million<\/p>\n *RHP Pierce Johnson 1-year, $6.5 million<\/p>\n *3B\/1B Eugenio Su\u00e1rez 1-year, $15 million with $16 million mutual option<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Dane Myers from Marlins for OF Ethan O\u2019Donnell<\/p>\n *As part of a three-team deal, acquired LHP Brock Burke from Angels for INF Gavin Lux, who went to Rays<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Dusty Revis from Mariners for RHP Yosver Zulueta<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Reds waited out free-agent power hitter Eugenio Su\u00e1rez until his asking price came down and they closed a short-term deal with him (one year guaranteed plus a mutual option for 2027) on the first day of February, giving the Reds much needed right-handed power for their lineup. Su\u00e1rez belted 49 homers last year between the Diamondbacks and Mariners and his swing is perfect for Great American Ball Park. He\u2019s expected to share time at DH, first base and third base with rookie Sal Stewart and veteran Spencer Steer, who is also expected to play some in the outfield.\u00a0The Reds also did an excellent job of bolstering their bullpen and outfield depth. In addition, they surprised the industry by making Ohio native Kyle Schwarber a competitive offer in free agency and tried to extend Elly De La Cruz<\/a> on an deal that would have made him the highest paid player in Reds history, surpassing Joey Votto\u2019s $251.5 million pact from 2012. However, they weren\u2019t able to get either of those deals across the finish line.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Even with Su\u00e1rez on board, do they have enough offense to make it back to the postseason?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Third place<\/p>\n Milwaukee Brewers<\/p>\n Grade: B+<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *OF Akil Baddoo 1-year, $1.25 million<\/p>\n Qualifying Offers:<\/p>\n *RHP Brandon Woodruff accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Brandon Sproat and INF\/OF Jett Williams from Mets for RHP Freddy Peralta and RHP Tobias Myers<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Angel Zerpa from Royals for OF Isaac Collins and RHP Nick Mears<\/p>\n Key takeaways: General manager Matt Arnold won his second consecutive Executive of the Year Award but don\u2019t expect a three-peat with both Andrew Friedman of the Dodgers and David Stearns of the Mets having excellent offseasons. The Brewers did what they probably had to do and traded away Freddy Peralta, who can elect free agency next offseason, and got a spectacular return from the Mets: two top-100 prospects, Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams. Sproat is a middle-of-the-rotation type bulldog who is ready for the majors and Williams should compete for an everyday job, in either the infield or outfield (or maybe he\u2019ll play a mix of both).<\/p>\n I liked the pickup of Angel Zerpa to boost the bullpen, but the Brewers paid a big price to get him. I was surprised they extended Brandon Woodruff the qualifying offer based on his injury history, but if Milwaukee is to repeat as NL Central champions, it\u2019ll need him after trading Peralta.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can the Brewers hold off the surging Cubs, Reds and Pirates? All three have improved their big-league rosters more than the Brewers this offseason.<\/p>\n Season prediction: Second place<\/p>\n Pittsburgh Pirates <\/p>\n Grade: A-<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *LHP Gregory Soto 1-year, $7.75 million<\/p>\n *1B\/OF Ryan O\u2019Hearn 2-years, $29 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Jhostynxon Garcia and RHP Jesus Travieso from Red Sox for RHP Johan Oviedo, LHP Tyler Samaniego and C Adonys Guzman<\/p>\n *As part of a three-team deal, acquired 2B Brandon Lowe, OF Jake Mangum and LHP Mason Montgomery from Rays for RHP Mike Burrows (who went to the Astros)<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Pirates finally did it. They were aggressive with their efforts to improve their offense, highlighted by the trades for second baseman Brandon Lowe and outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and the signing of first baseman\/outfielder\/DH Ryan O\u2019Hearn. They have one of the best young starting rotations in MLB and now \u2014 finally \u2014 have a chance to score some runs for them. They also have the best prospect in baseball \u2014 shortstop Konnor Griffin \u2014 waiting in the wings. Griffin is only 19 but he could make the Opening Day roster or debut before All-Star break. He could be the key as to whether the Pirates are pretenders or contenders.<\/p>\n \n Brandon Lowe was a big addition to the Pirates\u2019 lineup. (Julio Aguilar \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest question: If the Pirates are not in the postseason race at the trade deadline, will they reconsider their stance on trading Paul Skenes (who will have three and a half years of control remaining)?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fourth place<\/p>\n St. Louis Cardinals <\/p>\n Grade: B<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Dustin May 1-year, $12.5 million<\/p>\n *RHP Ryne Stanek 1-year, $3.5 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Brandon Clarke and RHP Richard Fitts from Red Sox for RHP Sonny Gray<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Hunter Dobbins, RHP Yhoiker Fajardo and RHP Blake Aitaf from Red Sox for 1B Willson Contreras<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Justin Bruihl from Guardians for cash considerations<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Jack Martinez from Diamondbacks for 3B Nolan Arenado and cash considerations<\/p>\n Promotions:<\/p>\n *Chaim Bloom to president of baseball operations<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Chaim Bloom era has begun in St. Louis. His first offseason running the team was highlighted by dealing veterans Sonny Gray, Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado, who all waived their no-trade clauses. The Cardinals focused on obtaining young, controllable pitching prospects back in all of their trades, with lefty Brandon Clarke from the Gray deal having the highest upside.\u00a0<\/p>\n Biggest question: How soon will top prospects like JJ Wetherholt, Liam Doyle and Joshua Baez be promoted to the big leagues, and how good will they be\u00a0when they arrive?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fifth place<\/p>\n National League WestArizona Diamondbacks <\/p>\n Grade: D+<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Merrill Kelly 2-years, $40 million<\/p>\n *RHP Michael Soroka 1-year, $7.5 million<\/p>\n *C James McCann 1-year, $2.75 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired 3B Nolan Arenado and cash considerations from Cardinals for RHP Jack Martinez<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Josh Grosz from Rockies for OF Jake McCarthy<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Avery Owusu-Asiedu from Phillies for LHP Kyle Backhus<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Diamondbacks have had a rough offseason. So far, their only significant move was to bring back right-hander Merrill Kelly. They traded for Nolan Arenado, whose production has been declining, took a chance on the oft-injured Michael Soroka and added a backup catcher in James McCann. They also traded for a good bullpen arm, righty Josh Grosz, but had to part with speedy outfielder Jake McCarthy in the deal.<\/p>\n \n Adding a declining Nolan Arenado doesn\u2019t move the needle much for the Diamondbacks. (Dustin Bradford \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest questions: How will Jordan Lawlar adjust to moving from the infield to the outfield, and will he be able to win the everyday center-field job? Will the D-Backs move Ketel Marte before the trade deadline? Will they be able to re-sign Zac Gallen?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fourth place<\/p>\n Colorado Rockies <\/p>\n Grade: C+<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *INF Willi Castro 2-years, $12.8 million<\/p>\n *RHP Michael Lorenzen 1-year, $8 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Jake McCarthy from Diamondbacks for RHP Josh Grosz<\/p>\n *Acquired cash considerations from Braves for LHP Ryan Rolison<\/p>\n *Acquired 2B Edouard Julien and RHP Pierson Ohl from Twins for RHP Jace Kaminska and cash<\/p>\n *Acquired IB TJ Rumfield from Yankees for RHP Angel Chivilli<\/p>\n Hires:<\/p>\n *Paul DePodesta, president of baseball operations<\/p>\n *Josh Byrnes, general manager<\/p>\n Key takeaways: Hiring baseball veterans Paul DePodesta and Josh Byrnes saved their offseason grade. The pair bring an outside perspective to the puzzle of how to rebuild the Rockies to try to take advantage of playing half their games at Coors Field. It will be interesting to monitor their progress. They really haven\u2019t improved the roster this offseason outside of adding solid bench depth (Jake McCarthy, Edouard Julien and Willi Castro) and a backend starter (Michael Lorenzen).\u00a0<\/p>\n Biggest question: How long will it take the new front office to rebuild the club\u2019s infrastructure and help the organization catch up in terms of analytics and technology?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fifth place<\/p>\n Los Angeles Dodgers<\/p>\n Grade: A+<\/p>\n Free agents:\u00a0<\/p>\n *OF Kyle Tucker 4-years, $240 million<\/p>\n *RHP Edwin D\u00edaz 3-years, $69 million<\/p>\n *SS Miguel Rojas 1-year, $5.5 million<\/p>\n *INF Andy Iba\u00f1ez 1-year, $1.2 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Adriano Marrero from Marlins for OF Esteury Ruiz<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Dodgers have won back-to-back titles and had only two real weaknesses last year \u2014 no impact closer and below-average defense in right field. Well, they addressed both of those areas, signing the top closer in the NL, Edwin D\u00edaz, and the top-overall free agent, Kyle Tucker, to play right field. They had the best team in baseball before those moves; now, they\u2019re set up nicely to three-peat, clear favorites to win it all again.<\/p>\n The Dodgers\u2019 front office and ownership group out-earns, out-spends, out-maneuvers, out-develops, out-scouts, out-analyzes and out-R&Ds every team in baseball. It has created what could be the greatest dynasty in modern MLB history. The Dodgers have the top 26-man roster, the top 40-man roster and one of the best farm systems in the entire sport. They bring in record-breaking revenue, but give it right back to the fans by spending on players. They have become a model organization with a global reach.<\/p>\n \n Kyle Tucker\u2019s defense will make a big difference for the Dodgers on top of what he brings with the bat. (Erin Hooley \/ Associated Press)<\/p>\n Biggest question: Will the next collective bargaining agreement include a hard salary cap, or some similar system, that will prevent the Dodgers from out-spending every other team in the future? And what type of champagne will they celebrate with this October?<\/p>\n Season prediction: First place and World Series winner<\/p>\n San Diego Padres<\/p>\n Grade: B-<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *LHP Kyle Hart, 1-year, $1 million<\/p>\n *RHP Michael King 3-years, $75 million<\/p>\n *INF Sung Mun Song 4-years, $15 million<\/p>\n Trades: None\u00a0<\/p>\n Hires:<\/p>\n * Craig Stammen, manager<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Padres, financially hamstrung by long-term contracts, have had very little to spend this offseason, but still somehow found a way to re-sign starter Michael King. His return should enable them to at least compete for a wild-card berth this year.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can rookie manager Craig Stammen lead this team back to the postseason?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Second place<\/p>\n San Francisco Giants<\/p>\n Grade: B<\/p>\n Free agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Tyler Mahle 1-year, $10 million<\/p>\n *LHP Sam Hentges 1-year, $1.4 million<\/p>\n *RHP Adrian Houser 2-years, $22 million<\/p>\n *RHP Jason Foley 1-year, $2 million<\/p>\n *OF Harrison Bader 2-years, $20.5 million<\/p>\n *2B Luis Arraez 1-year, $12 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Logan Martin from Royals for RHP Mason Black<\/p>\n *Acquired C Jancel Villarroel and international bonus pool money from Astros for RHP Kai-Wei Teng<\/p>\n Hirings: Tony Vitello, manager<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Giants may not have done their offseason shopping at Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue but they did an excellent job finding undervalued players such as Tyler Mahle, Adrian Houser, Jason Foley, Harrison Bader and Luis Arraez. None of those five really helps the Giants close the gap between them and the Dodgers, but those moves do make them a huge threat for second place in the NL West and a wild-card berth. Bader is more of a fourth outfielder in my opinion, but he\u2019s an important defensive center fielder for the pitching staff, and if Mahle can just stay healthy, he\u2019s a solid mid-rotation starter. Arraez has won batting titles in both leagues and although he\u2019s a below-average defender without pop, he does create traffic for the middle of the Giants\u2019 order. I just wish they could have landed another top-of-the-rotation starter.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Will Tony Vitello, their outside-the-box managerial hire, lead them to the postseason in his first year?\u00a0Who will play more games at first base for them this year \u2014 Rafael Devers or Bryce Eldridge?\u00a0<\/p>\n Season prediction: Third place<\/p>\n American League EastBaltimore Orioles<\/p>\n Grade: A<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *1B Pete Alonso 5-years, $155 million<\/p>\n *RHP Ryan Helsley 2-years, $28 million<\/p>\n *RHP Zach Eflin 1-year, $10 million<\/p>\n *RHP Andrew Kittredge 1-year, $10 million<\/p>\n *OF Leody Taveras 1-year, $2 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Taylor Ward from Angels for RHP Grayson Rodriguez<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Shane Baz from Rays for OF Slater de Brun, C Caden Bodine, RHP Michael Forret, OF Austin Overn and Competitive Balance Round A draft pick<\/p>\n *Acquired 2B Payton Eeles from Twins for C Alex Jackson<\/p>\n *Acquired INF\/OF Bryan Ramos from White Sox for cash considerations<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Orioles got serious this offseason, adding proven power to their lineup with the acquisitions of Pete Alonso and Taylor Ward. They then bolstered their starting rotation via a blockbuster trade with the Rays for promising righty Shane Baz, who is under contract through 2028. The O\u2019s now appear to have one of the more lethal lineups in the league and the veteran additions should help their young core reach their potential.\u00a0<\/p>\n \n Pete Alonso\u2019s power bat should take the pressure off some of the Orioles\u2019 young star hitters. (Lloyd Fox \/ Baltimore Sun \/ Tribune News Service via Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest question: Will the Orioles make one more big move this offseason, perhaps signing Framber Valdez or Zac Gallen? If they are able to add another frontline starter, they should get back to the playoffs.\u00a0<\/p>\n Season prediction: Third place<\/p>\n Boston Red Sox<\/p>\n Grade: B+<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *LHP Ranger Su\u00e1rez 5-years, $130 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Sonny Gray from Cardinals for LHP Brandon Clarke and RHP Richard Fitts<\/p>\n *Acquired 1B Willson Contreras from Cardinals for RHP Hunter Dobbins, RHP Yhoiker Fajardo and RHP Blake Aita<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Johan Oviedo, LHP Tyler Samaniego and C Adonys Guzman from Pirates for OF Jhostynxon Garcia and RHP Jesus Travieso<\/p>\n *Acquired INF Tristan Gray from Rays for RHP Luis Guerrero, then acquired C Nate Baez from Twins for Gray<\/p>\n *Acquired C Ronny Hernandez from White Sox for RHP Chris Murphy<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Isaiah Jackson from Angels for INF Vaughn Grissom<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Jake Bennett from Nationals for RHP Luis Perales<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Gage Ziehl and a player to be named later from White Sox for RHP Jordan Hicks, RHP David Sandlin, two players to be named later and cash considerations<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Red Sox failed in their attempt to bring back Alex Bregman and were unable to sign Bo Bichette as his replacement. However, they did upgrade at first base with the trade for Willson Contreras and they improved their rotation significantly with the pick-ups of Ranger Su\u00e1rez and Sonny Gray, as well as depth options like Johan Oviedo and Jake Bennett.\u00a0<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can Boston find a way to upgrade at second or third base by trading for Ketel Marte or making a similar acquisition between now and Opening Day?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fourth place<\/p>\n New York Yankees<\/p>\n Grade: C<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *OF Cody Bellinger 5-years, $162.5 million<\/p>\n *LHP Ryan Yarbrough 1-year, $2.5 million<\/p>\n *INF Amed Rosario 1-year, $2.5 million<\/p>\n *RHP Paul Blackburn 1-year, $2 million<\/p>\n Qualifying Offers:<\/p>\n *OF Trent Grisham accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Ryan Weathers from Marlins for OF Dillon Lewis, OF Brendan Jones, INF Dylan Jasso and INF Juan Matheus<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Angel Chivilli from Rockies for 1B TJ Rumfield<\/p>\n *Acquired cash considerations from Angels for LHP Jayvien Sandridge<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Yankees made re-signing Cody Bellinger their No. 1 priority this offseason. Although it took them until mid-January to get a deal done, at least they got it over the finish line, which in turn allows them to basically run back the team that went 94-68 last season, tying the Blue Jays for the most wins in the AL.<\/p>\n The only other significant move the Yankees made was the trade for lefty Ryan Weathers, who helps their starting pitching depth. They surprised the industry by giving outfielder Trent Grisham the qualifying offer, which he accepted. With Grisham and Bellinger returning, young outfielders Jasson Dom\u00ednguez and Spencer Jones will likely have to wait \u2014 or be traded \u2014 to get a real opportunity to become everyday players. The Yankees will be counting on Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rod\u00f3n and Anthony Volpe to successfully return from their injuries after starting the season on the IL. They are hopeful Volpe, Austin Wells and Ben Rice will have breakout seasons.<\/p>\n \n It took a while, but Cody Bellinger is back in pinstripes. (Ishika Samant \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can Cole and Rod\u00f3n bounce back from their injuries to give the Yankees one of the best starting rotations in baseball?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Second place<\/p>\n Tampa Bay Rays<\/p>\n Grade: C+<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *OF Jake Fraley 1-year, $3 million<\/p>\n *OF Cedric Mullins 1-year, $7 million<\/p>\n *LHP Steven Matz 2-years, $15 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired PTBNL or cash considerations from Royals for OF Kameron Misner<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Luis Guerrero from Red Sox for INF Tristan Gray<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Steven Wilson and RHP Yoendrys Gomez from White Sox for OF Everson Pereira and OF Tanner Murray<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Tommy McCollum from Phillies for RHP Yoniel Curet<\/p>\n *As part of a three-team deal, acquired OF Jacob Melton and RHP Anderson Brito from Astros. Rays sent 2B Brandon Lowe, OF Jake Mangum and LHP Mason Montgomery to the Pirates in the deal<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Slater de Brun, C Caden Bodine, RHP Michael Forret, OF Austin Overn and Competitive Balance Round A draft pick from Orioles for RHP Shane Baz<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Justyn-Henry Malloy from Tigers for cash considerations<\/p>\n *Acquired INF Brett Wisely and LHP Ken Waldichuk from Braves for PTBNL or cash considerations<\/p>\n *As part of a three-team deal, acquired INF Gavin Lux from Reds and RHP Chris Clark from Angels for OF Josh Lowe, who went to the Angels<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Rays made more trades than almost any other team but it seemed like they acquired more quantity than quality. Their biggest haul came from the Baz trade, but it will be years before we can assess the return in what amounted to a five-for-one swap. The Rays\u2019 new ownership group made it clear, through the club\u2019s actions, that they didn\u2019t want to add significant salary to the payroll this offseason, instead emphasizing their efforts to get a new stadium.<\/p>\n Biggest question: Will the Rays finally get a new stadium deal done to create an improved revenue stream they can eventually put toward player payroll?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fifth place<\/p>\n Toronto Blue Jays <\/p>\n Grade: A<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Dylan Cease 7-years, $210 million<\/p>\n *3B Kazuma Okamoto 4-years, $60 million<\/p>\n *RHP Tyler Rogers 3-years, $37 million<\/p>\n *RHP Cody Ponce 3-year, $30 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Chase Lee from Tigers for LHP Johan Simon<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The AL champions landed arguably the best starting pitcher on the open market in Dylan Cease, the only pitcher over the last five years with at least 30 starts, at least 200 innings and at least 200 strikeouts each season. I loved the gamble the Blue Jays took on Cody Ponce, who among free-agent pitchers has a chance to be this offseason\u2019s best value signing. I also liked the pickup of Tyler Rogers, who gives their bullpen another reliever with a different look\u00a0thanks to his submarine delivery.\u00a0<\/p>\n Biggest questions: Can Kazuma Okamoto be at least an adequate defender at third base and how will his offense translate to MLB? Can Anthony Santander bounce back after a brutal first season in Toronto? How much will they miss Bo Bichette?<\/p>\n Season prediction: First place<\/p>\n American League CentralChicago White Sox<\/p>\n Grade: B-<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *LHP Anthony Kay 2-years, $12 million<\/p>\n *3B Munetaka Murakami 2-years, $34 million<\/p>\n *LHP Sean Newcomb 1-year, $4.5 million<\/p>\n *RHP Seranthony Dom\u00ednguez 2-years, $20 million<\/p>\n *OF Austin Hays 1-year, $6 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Everson Pereira and OF Tanner Murray from Rays for RHP Steven Wilson and RHP Yoendrys Gomez<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Chris Murphy from Red Sox for C Ronny Hernandez<\/p>\n *Acquired INF Luisangel Acu\u00f1a and RHP Truman Pauley from the Mets for CF Luis Robert Jr.<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Jordan Hicks, RHP David Sandlin, two players to be named later and cash considerations for RHP Gage Ziehl and a player to be named later<\/p>\n *Acquired cash considerations for INF\/OF Bryan Ramos<\/p>\n Key takeaways: I liked Chicago\u2019s gamble on Japanese third baseman Munetaka Murakami, whose power should translate to 30 homers and around 180 to 200 strikeouts in MLB. That said, how much he gets on base and how well he plays defensively will determine if it was the right move. In addition, the White Sox were finally able to move on from Luis Robert Jr. They didn\u2019t get a strong prospect return in the trade with the Mets, but they did shed his $20 million salary \u2014 and they later added Austin Hays to their outfield mix to help replace him and used some of the savings from Robert\u2019s contract to take on the bulk of Jordan Hicks\u2019 contract in a trade that netted them right-handed pitching prospect David Sandlin<\/a>. The Hicks deal was particularly creative, as it adds another hard-throwing righty to their pitching staff and, more importantly, gives them a pitching prospect in Sandlin who should join their rotation sometime this season. They also signed hard-throwing reliever Seranthony Dom\u00ednguez to serve as their closer.<\/p>\n Biggest question: When will their top pitching prospects, Noah Schultz and Hagen Smith, be major-league ready?\u00a0<\/p>\n Season prediction: Fifth place<\/p>\n Cleveland Guardians<\/p>\n Grade: D<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Colin Holderman 1-year, $1.5 million<\/p>\n *RHP Connor Brogdon 1-year, $900,000<\/p>\n *RHP Shawn Armstrong 1-year, $5.5 million<\/p>\n Extension:<\/p>\n *3B Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00edrez 7-years, $175 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired cash considerations from Cardinals for LHP Justin Bruihl<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Guardians need to add more offense, in particular a middle-of-the-order impact bat to help protect future Hall of Famer Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00edrez, who should now be a Guardian for the rest of his career after agreeing to another team-friendly contract extension<\/a>. Unfortunately, beyond the Ram\u00edrez deal, all the Guardians have done this offseason is add inexpensive bullpen depth. The Guardians now will have to hope young hitters like Chase DeLauter, Kyle Manzardo and Travis Bazzana have breakout seasons. That could be the only way they score enough runs to win the NL Central again.\u00a0<\/p>\n \n Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00edrez still needs more protection in the middle of the Cleveland lineup. (Nick Cammett \/ Getty Images)<\/p>\n Biggest question: Can the Guardians upgrade their outfield offense through a deal between now and the trade deadline?<\/p>\n Season prediction: Third place<\/p>\n Detroit Tigers<\/p>\n Grade: C+<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Kyle Finnegan 2-years, $19 million<\/p>\n *RHP Kenley Jansen 1-year, $11 million<\/p>\n *RHP Drew Anderson 1-year, $7 million<\/p>\n Qualifying Offers:<\/p>\n *2B Gleyber Torres accepted (1-year, $22.025 million)<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Johan Simon from Blue Jays for RHP Chase Lee<\/p>\n *Acquired cash considerations from Rays for OF Justyn-Henry Malloy<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Tigers brought back Gleyber Torres and Kyle Finnegan on club-friendly deals, and I liked the pickup of closer Kenley Jansen to bolster the back end of their bullpen. However, they couldn\u2019t sign Tarik Skubal to an extension or agree on a contract for this season, and it looks like an arbitration panel will decide his 2026 salary. The Tigers low-balled him with a $19 million offer, so they\u2019ll probably lose the case, which would net Skubal a record-breaking $32 million deal. On the flip side, the Tigers know their future is bright because so many of their top prospects, like shortstop Kevin McGonigle, outfielder Max Clark and first baseman Josue Brice\u00f1o, are getting close to the majors and all profile as future All-Star talents.\u00a0<\/p>\n Biggest questions: Will they win or lose their arbitration case with Skubal? And will they hold onto him until the trade deadline, sign him to a long-term contract, or trade him before the season? It\u2019s a story that is not going away this year, and it could become a distraction.\u00a0<\/p>\n Season prediction: Second place<\/p>\n Kansas City Royals<\/p>\n Grade: B<\/p>\n Free Agents:<\/p>\n *RHP Alex Lange 1-year, $900,000<\/p>\n *OF Lane Thomas 1-year, $5.25 million<\/p>\n Trades:<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Isaac Collins and RHP Nick Mears from Brewers for LHP Angel Zerpa<\/p>\n *Acquired OF Kameron Misner from Rays for PTBNL or cash considerations<\/p>\n *Acquired RHP Mason Black from Giants for RHP Logan Martin<\/p>\n *Acquired LHP Matt Strahm from Phillies for RHP Jonathan Bowlan<\/p>\n Extensions:<\/p>\n *3B Maikel Garcia 5-years, $57.5 million<\/p>\n *MGR Matt Quatraro 3 years<\/p>\n Key takeaways: The Royals have had a solid but not spectacular offseason. Their best moves upgraded their outfield depth (with Lane Thomas and Isaac Collins) and improved the left side of their bullpen (Matt Strahm). They also deserve praise for third baseman Maikel Garcia\u2019s contract extension. Extending Matt Quatraro, one of the best young managers in baseball, was another smart move. His stock has risen in the industry.<\/p>\n![\"Adolis](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2207011745-scaled.jpg\")
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<\/p>\n![\"Brandon](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/GettyImages-2223134800-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Nolan](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2225685909-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Kyle](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/AP25113055435992-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Pete](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2250990528-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Cody](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2228098605-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Jos\u00e9](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/GettyImages-2238852028-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
![\"Byron](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26533613-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Tatsuya](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/mlb\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1767701354_923_GettyImages-2254811254-scaled.jpg\")
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