The MLB offseason is winding down, and the last big domino just fell. Alex Bregman’s massive $120 million deal with the Red Sox means all the major free agents have found homes.
Sure, we might still see a surprise trade before Opening Day – maybe even someone like Nolan Arenado – but the biggest moves are probably behind us.
It’s been quite a winter. Juan Soto broke records with his eye-popping $765 million contract with the Mets. But here’s the thing: some teams that should’ve been making moves have been surprisingly quiet.
We’re not talking about teams like the Marlins, where nobody expects much anyway. We’re looking at teams that should be going all-in for a playoff run.
Three teams in particular have been shockingly inactive. And it’s not like they’re powerhouses who can afford to coast – these are teams that need every edge they can get.
The Brewers’ Puzzling Patience
Milwaukee usually finds a way to make things work, but they’re really testing that ability this year. They lost Willy Adames to the Giants – and that’s a huge blow, considering he finished 10th in MVP voting last year.
Their pitching staff, once their biggest strength, is looking thinner. Yes, they got Nestor Cortes, but they had to give up Devin Williams – probably baseball’s best reliever right now – to get him.
The Cubs, meanwhile, have been busy improving their team. For the first time in a while, Milwaukee isn’t the favorite to win their division.
The Padres’ Disappearing Act
After winning 93 games last year – their second-best season ever – San Diego has basically gone into hibernation. Their big move? Signing Nick Pivetta for $55 million over four years. That’s it.
They’re trying to replace All-Star Jurickson Profar with a Jason Heyward/Connor Joe platoon in left field. That’s like replacing a steak dinner with a sandwich.
Things could get even worse. There’s talk they might trade Michael King or Dylan Cease before the season starts. Losing either one would be a huge blow to their playoff hopes.
The sad truth? The team’s been struggling since owner Peter Seidler passed away. A messy legal battle between his family members isn’t helping things.
The Mariners’ Market Mistake
Seattle’s playing in a division that’s totally up for grabs. The Astros have lost some big names, and nobody looks like a clear favorite.
But instead of seizing the moment, the Mariners are standing pat. They haven’t spent big in years, and team president Jerry Dipoto keeps making excuses for their tight wallet.
Their lineup needs help, especially with several key players on the wrong side of 30. There were power hitters available this winter, but Seattle wouldn’t open their checkbook.
For a team that’s missed the playoffs by just one game two years in a row, this passive approach is hard to understand.
