2025-26 MLB Offseason: A Comprehensive Update
The 2025-26 MLB hot stove season is in full swing, with the Los Angeles Dodgers having recently won their second consecutive World Series championship. As the offseason heats up, all eyes are on a talented free agent hitting class featuring Kyle Tucker, Kyle Schwarber, Cody Bellinger, Alex Bregman, and Pete Alonso. However, they’re not the only ones expected to make a significant impact in the market.
Several teams are poised to make big moves in pursuit of the 2026 World Series title. The Boston Red Sox, for instance, have already acquired right-hander Johan Oviedo from the Pittsburgh Pirates in a five-player trade, sending heralded outfield prospect Jhostynxon Garcia to Pittsburgh in the process. This move is a clear indication of the Red Sox’s intent to contend in the upcoming season.
Notable Transactions and Updates
On December 4, the Red Sox made the aforementioned trade with the Pirates. Additionally, outfielder Cedric Mullins agreed to a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Rays, while free agent closer Emilio Pagan agreed to return to the Cincinnati Reds on a $20 million, two-year contract. World Series hero Miguel Rojas is also returning to the Dodgers in 2026, for what will be his final season in the major leagues, after agreeing to a one-year, $5.5 million deal.
The Rays’ acquisition of Mullins is expected to bolster their outfield, while the Reds’ re-signing of Pagan will help solidify their bullpen. Meanwhile, the Dodgers’ decision to bring back Rojas will provide veteran leadership and depth to their infield.
Other Key Moves
On December 3, left-handed reliever Sam Hentges and the San Francisco Giants agreed to a $1.4 million, one-year contract. The Chicago White Sox also agreed to a two-year, $12 million contract with left-hander Anthony Kay, which includes a club option for a third season. These moves demonstrate the Giants’ and White Sox’s commitment to strengthening their pitching staffs.
The Giants’ acquisition of Hentges will add depth to their bullpen, while the White Sox’s signing of Kay will provide a boost to their starting rotation.
Early Offseason Developments
On November 29, closer Ryan Helsley and the Baltimore Orioles agreed on a two-year contract that includes an opt-out after the first season. Right-hander Dylan Cease and the Toronto Blue Jays agreed on a seven-year, $210 million contract on November 26. These deals showcase the Orioles’ and Blue Jays’ willingness to invest in their pitching staffs.
The Orioles’ signing of Helsley will help anchor their bullpen, while the Blue Jays’ acquisition of Cease will provide a significant boost to their starting rotation.
Key Offseason Dates
Nov. 6: Free agency began at 5 p.m. ET, marking the official start of the offseason. The MLB has a number of key dates scheduled, including the GM meetings in Las Vegas from November 10-13 and the owners meetings in New York from November 18-20.
Nov. 18: The deadline to accept or reject qualifying offers has passed, with several players opting to become free agents. The non-tender deadline was on November 21, and the winter meetings are scheduled to take place in Orlando from December 8-10.
For more information on the MLB offseason, including news, updates, and analysis, visit MLB.com or follow your favorite team’s website and social media channels.
