Grading the 2025-26 MLB Offseason: Who Scored Well?

MLB Offseason Report Cards: A Comprehensive Review

Baseball fans, the moment we've been waiting for is finally here: the onset of spring training and the approaching 2026 MLB season. While anticipation builds for the run-up to opening day, it's also time to reflect on the offseason moves that set the tone for each team's campaign. This year's review features surprises in the trade market, unexpected signings, and, yes, a few head-scratchers.

The 2025-26 offseason was anything but ordinary. The landscape for teams across the league shifted dramatically, some capitalizing on lucrative trades while others failed to make the necessary adjustments to keep pace with the competition. I've taken a closer look at each team's movements during the offseason and assigned them a grade based on their performance.

Assessing Each Team

American League East

Baltimore Orioles: B+

Key Additions: 1B Pete Alonso, OF Taylor Ward, RHP Shane Baz.

The Orioles made some intriguing moves this offseason, highlighted by the addition of Alonso, a powerhouse bat that could amplify their lineup. However, trading away young pitching talent raises long-term concerns about their rotation depth.

Boston Red Sox: A

Key Additions: RHP Ranger Suarez, RHP Sonny Gray, and 1B Willson Contreras.

Another strong showing by the Red Sox, who have developed a more balanced roster while maintaining financial flexibility. Brock's strategic trades set them up to contend without overspending, making it one of the better offseasons league-wide.

New York Yankees: C+

Key Additions: OF Cody Bellinger, INF Amed Rosario.

The Yankees opted for familiarity over new talent but still face challenges in their pitching rotation. They secured Bellinger's return, which could provide a spark, yet the lack of significant upgrades has left some fans wanting more.

American League Central

Chicago White Sox: C

Key Additions: 1B Munetaka Murakami, 2B Luisangel Acuna.

The White Sox's offseason choices are a mixed bag. While Murakami brings potential, the lingering questions around roster depth have left the team with a palpable uncertainty going into 2026.

Cleveland Guardians: D+

Key Additions: RHP Shawn Armstrong.

A lack of significant moves paints a bleak picture for the Guardians. With minimal upgrades to an already challenged offense, they risk falling further behind in a competitive division.

American League West

Houston Astros: C

Key Additions: RHP Tatsuya Imai, RHP Mike Burrows.

The Astros are in transition, and while bringing in Imai poses potential benefits, they failed to address critical areas offensively. Balancing the roster will be crucial for maintaining their status as a playoff contender.

Texas Rangers: C+

Key Additions: LHP MacKenzie Gore, LF Brandon Nimmo.

Although the Rangers made a couple of interesting moves, their overall offseason did not excite the fanbase. Will these additions translate to tangible results on the field? Time will tell.

National League East

Atlanta Braves: B+

Key Additions: RHP Robert Suarez, OF Mike Yastrzemski.

The Braves have taken significant strides to bolster their roster depth, showing commitment to improving an already solid foundation. However, injuries during spring training have raised concerns among fans.

New York Mets: B+

Key Additions: RHP Freddy Peralta, 3B Bo Bichette.

New York's aggressive approach has revitalized the roster. The influx of talent suggests a commitment to a more competitive team, although the risk of instability in the bullpen lingers from last year.

Looking Ahead

Each MLB team's offseason strategy reflects both their aspirations and the realities they face. Will the moves made translate into success on the field? The upcoming 2026 season will provide the ultimate test of these offseason gambles. As we gear up for the season, it's clear that some teams have set themselves up for playoff contention, while others may find themselves in for a long summer. Stay tuned as spring training progresses, and let's watch these assessments take shape on the diamond.

Conclusion

The 2025-26 offseason has been a thrilling ride—and for baseball fans like myself, it's shaping up to be an exciting season ahead. With carefully calibrated moves and bold surprises, the teams have staked their claims in the race for the pennant. Which team do you think will rise above the rest? I'd love to hear your thoughts.