The MLB Offseason Shuffle: 10 Teams, 10 Major Upgrades
Every team strives for perfection, but the road to success is paved with strategic moves. As the 2026 Spring Training approaches, let's dive into the 10 most notable positional upgrades across MLB teams, each addressing their weaknesses head-on. These moves might not guarantee championships, but they're sure to spark debates among fans and analysts alike.
Athletics: Reviving Second Base
In 2025, injuries plagued the A's second base position. Zack Gelof's season was cut short, and his replacements, Luis Urías, Max Schuemann, and Max Muncy, struggled collectively, resulting in a dismal 53 wRC+. But here's the twist:
They acquired Jeff McNeil, a former NL batting champion, from the Mets. While his recent performance has been average, it's a significant upgrade for the Athletics, who are hoping for a return to McNeil's former glory.
Cubs: Securing the Hot Corner
The Cubs' pursuit of Alex Bregman didn't pan out initially, but they didn't give up. With Kyle Tucker's potential departure, they needed a powerful bat. They signed Bregman for $175 million over five years, a bold move to secure one of baseball's top third basemen.
Dodgers: Closing the Deal
Despite winning back-to-back World Series, the Dodgers' closing situation was shaky. Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates underperformed, and injuries plagued other options. But the Dodgers didn't settle; they signed Kyle Tucker for a staggering $240 million over four years, effectively solidifying their outfield.
Dodgers (Again): Left Field Reinforcements
Michael Conforto's 2025 season was underwhelming, and the Dodgers needed a change. They signed Tucker, who will play right field, but his presence allows Teoscar Hernández to slide into left, directly replacing Conforto.
Mets: Center Field Gamble
The Mets' center field position was a rollercoaster in 2025. Jose Siri's injury left Tyrone Taylor as the starter, but his trade for Cedric Mullins didn't pay off. Enter Luis Robert Jr., acquired from the White Sox. It's a risky move due to Robert's injury history, but the Mets are betting on his All-Star potential.
Orioles: First Base Reinvention
The Orioles' first base position was lackluster in 2025, ranking 22nd with a 92 wRC+. Ryan Mountcastle's injury and Coby Mayo's rookie struggles didn't help. The Orioles needed a change, and they're hoping for a fresh start.
Pirates: Second Base Power
The Pirates had a rough 2025, ranking last in runs scored. Their second base position was weak, but they addressed it by acquiring Brandon Lowe from the Rays. Lowe's injury history is a concern, but his power hitting is undeniable.
Red Sox: First Base and Rotation Boost
The Red Sox made two significant moves. First, they acquired Willson Contreras from the Cardinals, a former catcher who excelled at first base in 2025. Then, they signed Alex Bregman after he opted out of his Red Sox contract, strengthening their rotation.
White Sox: First Base Makeover
The White Sox parted ways with Andrew Vaughn after a disappointing start. Their first base position struggled, but they're looking to turn things around.
Honorable Mentions: The Pirates' designated hitter, Blue Jays' starting rotation, and Royals' left field also deserve a nod for their notable improvements.
And there you have it—10 teams, 10 upgrades, and countless possibilities. But the real question is, which of these moves will pay off? Which teams will rise, and which will fall short? The beauty of baseball lies in its unpredictability, so let the debates begin!
What do you think? Are these upgrades game-changers or potential busts? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the future of these MLB teams.
