January 1st not only signals the start of a new year but also marks the halfway point of baseball’s offseason. It has been two months since the claimed the Commissioner’s Trophy for the second consecutive year, and spring training in Arizona and Florida is just around the corner. So far, 26 of the top 50 free agents have signed contracts, but many key players, including nine of the top 15 free agents with three of the top four still unsigned, remain available. This slow market is unusual and, combined with several high-profile trade possibilities and teams yet to make major moves, January promises to be an exciting month in Major League Baseball with plenty of decisions to come before pitchers and catchers report in mid-February.
One major question centers on Kyle Tucker, this offseason’s top free agent, who has yet to find a new team despite visits from the Blue Jays, viewed as a logical fit due to their willingness to offer a significant contract and a roster suited to his talents. Other teams like the Cubs, , Phillies, and Giants have shown varying levels of interest, but no firm landing spot appears imminent. Tucker’s eventual contract will likely influence the market for other free agents.
The starting pitcher market remains slow as well, with most movement involving re-signings or smaller deals. Several noteworthy pitchers, including Framber Valdez, Ranger Suarez, Zac Gallen, and Lucas Giolito, are still free agents. The trade market has seen some activity, such as trades involving Sonny Gray, Shane Baz, and others, but more moves could be on the horizon as teams look to strengthen rotations before Opening Day.
The New York Yankees have been surprisingly inactive compared to their usual busy offseasons, with only minor additions and some re-signings. Their top priority is retaining outfielder Cody Bellinger, but questions remain about whether owner Hal Steinbrenner will increase payroll enough to significantly improve the roster after a disappointing playoff exit.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles are very active, making substantial moves including signing Pete Alonso to a record contract and acquiring Shane Baz and Taylor Ward. They are focused on rebuilding after a disappointing 2025 season, but further improvements, especially in starting pitching, may still be needed.
Trade rumors abound around players like Ketel Marte of the Diamondbacks, with potential major impacts for whichever team acquires him. Other notable hitters such as Brendan Donovan, Nolan Arenado, and Luis Robert Jr. could also be moved, keeping the trade market lively.
The Mets are in a rebuilding phase after losing key players like Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz and making several additions, but they have yet to regain a competitive edge. Their large payroll and remaining free agent and trade opportunities suggest the potential for further roster strengthening.
Free agents Alex Bregman and Beau Bichette also remain unsigned, with Bichette hoping to stay with the Blue Jays and Bregman attracting interest from multiple teams. Their decisions will influence the free agent market and team dynamics moving forward.
Finally, the set a high bar by addressing their bullpen with Edwin Diaz, maintaining a strong roster projected to outpace other contenders like the Yankees, Blue Jays, and Braves. While other teams still have time to enhance their squads, Los Angeles currently appears to be the clear favorite to repeat as champions.
Fan Take: This offseason’s uncertain market and numerous unanswered questions make it compelling for baseball fans, as the upcoming moves could reshape team dynamics and playoff races significantly. Keeping an eye on key players like Kyle Tucker and the starting pitcher market will be crucial in understanding which teams will emerge as serious contenders next season.
