06.01.2026 - MLB Offseason 2025–26: Most-Improved Teams and Key Moves
The 2025–26 MLB offseason has progressed steadily, with several teams taking decisive steps to improve their rosters ahead of the 2026 season. While a number of high-profile free agents remain unsigned, including Framber Valdez, Ranger Suárez, Cody Bellinger, Bo Bichette and Alex Bregman, seven teams have already made significant moves that materially change their outlook for the coming year.
The Baltimore Orioles have been the most aggressive and most improved club so far. They added middle-of-the-order power by signing first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year contract and trading for outfielder Taylor Ward. Those additions are expected to ease pressure on a young core that includes Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, Jackson Holliday and Colton Cowser. Baltimore also strengthened its pitching staff by acquiring starter Shane Baz to slot behind Trevor Rogers, re-signing Zach Eflin for rotation depth, and rebuilding the bullpen with the additions of Ryan Helsley and Andrew Kittredge. The Orioles remain active in pursuit of another frontline starter.
The Pittsburgh Pirates focused on addressing long-standing offensive deficiencies. They acquired second baseman Brandon Lowe in a three-team trade and signed Ryan O’Hearn to add power and on-base ability. They also obtained outfield prospect Jhostynxon Garcia, who is expected to compete for a roster spot in spring training. With elite young pitching already in place, these additions position Pittsburgh as a potential contender rather than a developmental club.
The Toronto Blue Jays, coming off an American League championship, continued to push forward. They signed starter Dylan Cease to a long-term contract, reinforcing the top of their rotation, and added bullpen depth with submariner Tyler Rogers. Toronto also signed right-hander Cody Ponce, who returns from Japan and Korea after dominant overseas performances, and added Japanese infielder Kazuma Okamoto, whose offensive profile fits the club despite defensive questions. Toronto remains involved in additional free-agent discussions.
The Atlanta Braves concentrated on bullpen strength and roster depth. They signed former Padres closer Robert Suarez and re-signed Raisel Iglesias, giving them one of the strongest late-inning combinations in baseball. Atlanta also brought back Ha-Seong Kim, added versatility through Mauricio Dubón, and signed Mike Yastrzemski to improve outfield coverage. These moves strengthen a roster that already has a strong foundation.
The Boston Red Sox leveraged trades to reshape their rotation and lineup. They acquired Sonny Gray to serve as a high-end starter behind Garrett Crochet and added Willson Contreras as a clear upgrade at first base. Additional pitching depth came through trades for Johan Oviedo and Jake Bennett. While Boston traded away significant farm depth, they retained their top prospects and remain active in the free-agent market.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, already the league’s strongest roster on paper, addressed their most pressing need by signing elite closer Edwin Díaz. They also re-signed Miguel Rojas to maintain infield stability. With Díaz anchoring the bullpen, the Dodgers remain the team to beat entering 2026 and could still add an outfield bat before spring training.
The Kansas City Royals improved their outfield through a combination of trades and free-agent signings, adding Isaac Collins and Lane Thomas to provide platoon flexibility. Their most impactful move came via trade for left-handed reliever Matt Strahm, strengthening the bridge to closer Carlos Estévez and stabilizing the bullpen.
As the offseason continues, several major moves remain on the table. With spring training approaching, additional signings and trades are expected to further reshape the competitive landscape for the 2026 season.