10 teams with plenty to do in the new year
The new year brings a fresh start and a new season for MLB clubs. With Spring Training just around the corner on February 20th, the offseason is winding down, but there's still much to be done for many teams aiming to contend in 2026.
Some clubs have made significant moves, but still have holes to fill, while others have yet to make a major signing or trade. Here's a look at 10 potential contenders with serious work to do before the 2026 season begins.
Red Sox
Boston has been active in the trade market, acquiring starter Sonny Gray and first baseman Willson Contreras from the Cardinals, and starter Johan Oviedo from the Pirates. These moves cost some young talent, but should set the Red Sox up for the year ahead. However, they may still need another impact bat, especially after trading Rafael Devers to the Giants. Re-signing Alex Bregman would be ideal, but with the clock ticking, they might have to turn to free agency for a hitter like Ketel Marte.
Mets
The Mets have fortified their bullpen and made multiple moves to overhaul their roster. However, fan favorites Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz have signed elsewhere, leaving a potential gap in their lineup. With Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto leading the way, they could use a bat like Kyle Tucker or Cody Bellinger, but their rotation still needs an upgrade after a challenging 2025.
Blue Jays
After a close World Series loss, the Blue Jays are building on their pennant-winning season. They've signed Dylan Cease and added KBO MVP Cody Ponce to their rotation. The team also signed Tyler Rogers, a durable reliever, and is in talks with top free agents like Kyle Tucker and Alex Bregman. Adding a big bat to their lineup, perhaps Bichette, would complete their offseason.
Orioles
The Orioles have been active in free agency and trades, making their biggest splash with a five-year deal for Pete Alonso. They've also added reliever Ryan Helsley and agreed to re-sign starter Zach Eflin. However, they could use an elite arm to pair with Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish at the front of the rotation, and are in the market for top free-agent starters.
Astros
The Astros' streak of four straight AL West titles ended in 2025, and they haven't made many moves to recapture the division. With Valdez likely gone, they could stand to make a rotation upgrade. They've traded for Mike Burrows and Nick Allen, but a big move, especially for a starting pitcher, could be beneficial.
Cubs
The Cubs have made a major bullpen shakeup, bringing in several relievers in free agency. However, they may not be able to meet Kyle Tucker's contract demands and are unsure about the top free-agent starters. Adding a starter or impact bat would improve their chances, but finding the right fit is key.
Giants
San Francisco is hoping to escape .500 purgatory and has made some moves, but they still need more impactful pitching. With a projected weak bullpen and a need for a power bat, they might consider a reunion with Justin Verlander or Max Scherzer, both of whom showed they still have something left in the tank last season.
Yankees
The Yankees' offseason has been relatively quiet, with Trent Grisham accepting his qualifying offer and re-signing Ryan Yarbrough. They're interested in a reunion with Bellinger, whose lefty swing would be a perfect fit. However, there's a possibility he signs elsewhere, leaving a gap in their lineup. Adding a big bat like Bellinger or Tucker would be a priority.
Brewers
After a successful regular season, the Brewers have had a quiet offseason, stockpiling rotation depth. They've held onto their ace, Freddy Peralta, despite trade rumors. With limited payroll flexibility, they might need to make a trade to acquire a power bat, as their lineup could use an upgrade.
Guardians
The Guardians' offense could use a boost, with a .670 OPS ranking second-to-last in the Majors. They have a strong player development system, and some young players like Travis Bazzana and Chase DeLauter are making their way up. However, they need to address their struggles against left-handed pitching, and a free-agent signing or two could help.
