MLB offseason grades: Dodgers, Cubs, Mariners and Orioles earn A's, while several teams get D's

From the Dodgers' blockbuster offseason to the Orioles' big moves, here's how each MLB team fared this winter.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The 2026 MLB offseason saw a flurry of activity, with some teams like the Dodgers, Cubs, Mariners and Orioles making major improvements, while others like the Marlins, Twins and Angels struggled to upgrade their rosters. The article grades each team's offseason moves, looking at which players they lost, which players they added, and whether they got better heading into the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The offseason is a critical time for MLB teams to set themselves up for success in the upcoming season. The moves made, or not made, can have a significant impact on a team's chances of making the playoffs and competing for a championship. This analysis provides insight into which teams are poised for a strong 2026 campaign and which ones may be in for a long season.

The details

The article breaks down the offseason for all 30 MLB teams, highlighting their key additions, subtractions and overall strategy. Some notable moves include the Dodgers signing Kyle Tucker, the Mets overhauling their roster, the Orioles signing Pete Alonso, and the Cardinals undergoing a rebuilding effort by trading away several veteran players.

  • The 2026 MLB offseason began shortly after the 2025 World Series concluded.
  • Spring training for the 2026 season started in mid-February 2026.

The players

Bo Bichette

Free agent infielder who the Phillies were close to signing before the Mets swooped in.

Kyle Tucker

Superstar outfielder who signed with the Dodgers in free agency.

Pete Alonso

All-Star first baseman who signed a long-term deal with the Orioles, signaling a new era of spending for the franchise.

Paul Toboni

The new president of baseball operations for the Nationals, who has overhauled the team's front office with younger executives.

Chaim Bloom

The new president of baseball operations for the Cardinals, who executed a series of trades to rebuild the team's roster.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This offseason saw a wide range of activity across MLB, with some teams making bold moves to improve their rosters while others took a more conservative approach. The results of these offseason decisions will play out on the field in the 2026 season, as teams look to position themselves for a run at the playoffs and a potential World Series championship.