MLB Offseason Heats Up with Exciting Moves and Big Contracts
As the dust settles on the Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series victory, the MLB offseason is already in full swing, and it’s shaping up to be a thrilling one. Just a day after the Dodgers celebrated their championship, the 2024-25 MLB hot stove has officially ignited, with teams making significant moves to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season.
One of the most talked-about stories this winter is the record-breaking contract of young slugger Juan Soto. Soto, who left the New York Yankees, has signed a historic deal with the New York Mets, making waves across the league. But Soto isn’t the only player making headlines. The market is buzzing with speculation about where other top free agents like Pete Alonso and Alex Bregman will land. Which teams will go all-in to contend for the 2025 World Series title? And who will make the trades and deals that have everyone talking?
Let’s dive into some of the notable transactions and updates from the MLB offseason so far:
- Dec. 30: The Washington Nationals have agreed to terms with first baseman Josh Bell on a one-year contract worth $6 million, according to multiple reports. Story »
- Dec. 29: The Chicago Cubs acquired utility man Vidal Bruján, sending first baseman Matt Mervis to the Miami Marlins in a swap of former top-100 prospects. Story »
- Dec. 28: Right-hander Corbin Burnes and the Arizona Diamondbacks are in agreement on a six-year, $210 million contract. Story »
- Dec. 27: Outfielder Teoscar Hernández and the Los Angeles Dodgers are in agreement on a three-year, $66 million contract. Story »
- Dec. 23: Veteran slugger Andrew McCutchen is returning to the Pittsburgh Pirates. Story »
- Dec. 22: The Philadelphia Phillies have acquired left-handed starter Jesus Luzardo from the Miami Marlins for two prospects. Story »
- Dec. 21: The Cleveland Guardians traded first baseman Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks and quickly replaced him by signing free agent Carlos Santana to a one-year, $12 million contract. Story »
- Dec. 20: The Houston Astros and free-agent first baseman Christian Walker have agreed to a three-year, $60 million contract. Story »
- Dec. 19: Outfielder Max Kepler and the Philadelphia Phillies are in agreement on a one-year, $10 million contract. Story »
- Dec. 17: OF/1B Cody Bellinger has been traded from the Chicago Cubs to the New York Yankees for right-handed reliever Cody Poteet. Story »
These moves are just the tip of the iceberg as teams continue to strategize and strengthen their lineups. The offseason is a time of anticipation and excitement, with fans eagerly awaiting to see how their favorite teams will shape up for the new season. With the winter meetings and the Rule 5 draft on the horizon, there’s no telling what other surprises are in store.
As we look ahead, the question remains: which teams will emerge as the frontrunners for the 2025 World Series? With so many talented players on the move and teams making bold decisions, the upcoming season promises to be one for the books. Stay tuned as we continue to track all the latest developments in the MLB offseason.
Originally Written by: ESPN
