The MLB offseason is always a hot topic, filled with trade rumors, free-agent signings, and franchise-building decisions that can shape the entire season. As teams prepare for the upcoming campaign, fans and analysts alike weigh in on who made the best moves and who missed the mark. This offseason, the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees stood at the forefront, making significant headlines, while some teams, unfortunately, faltered in their attempts to improve. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how each of these teams performed, with a closer look at who shined and who struggled during the 2024 MLB offseason.
New York Mets: A+ (Ace-ing the Winter)
The New York Mets were undoubtedly the talk of the offseason, and it’s easy to see why. Owner Steve Cohen’s deep pockets have allowed the Mets to aggressively pursue both major free agents and key trades to bolster their roster for 2024.
Key Moves:
- Signing Justin Verlander: The Mets pulled off one of the biggest moves by re-signing future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander to a two-year deal. Verlander’s signing was massive for the Mets, who had to address the loss of ace Jacob deGrom. Verlander’s experience, leadership, and consistent dominance on the mound provide a significant boost to the Mets’ pitching staff, helping solidify the rotation alongside Max Scherzer.
- Acquiring Kodai Senga: To further strengthen their starting pitching depth, the Mets went overseas and secured Japanese ace Kodai Senga. This signing is a testament to their global scouting network and the confidence in Senga’s ability to adjust to MLB’s level of competition. His electric stuff could make him one of the most dangerous pitchers in the NL.
- Offensive Upgrades: On the offensive side, the Mets added power to their lineup by acquiring slugger Brandon Nimmo on a long-term deal. With Nimmo’s ability to get on base and provide both power and speed, he fits in perfectly alongside veterans like Pete Alonso and Jeff McNeil.
Overall Grade: A+
The Mets didn’t just add to their team, they reshaped it. Their pitching rotation looks stacked, and their offense, while always potent, now has even more depth. This puts them firmly in the conversation for being one of the top teams in the National League.
Los Angeles Dodgers: A (Still the Team to Beat)
The Los Angeles Dodgers are another team that made notable moves this winter, though their strategy involved both savvy additions and some calculated subtractions. They didn’t make any big, splashy signings like the Mets, but their disciplined approach allowed them to maintain a competitive edge while keeping an eye on the future.
Key Moves:
- Trading for Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman: These two were already with the Dodgers prior to this offseason, but their continued presence means the Dodgers are never far from success. Still, LA bolstered its roster with some strategic signings and trades that help solidify their playoff chances.
- Signings of JD Martinez and Noah Syndergaard: JD Martinez, an experienced power hitter, adds balance to the middle of the lineup, complementing the Dodgers’ offensive strength. On the pitching side, Noah Syndergaard, a once-dominant ace, is a low-risk, high-reward gamble that could pay dividends if he can stay healthy and regain his form.
- Depth and Flexibility: LA’s biggest strength, aside from their elite lineup, is their depth. The Dodgers have a versatile roster with a mix of power hitters and high-contact players. Their ability to plug in multiple players across various positions without losing too much performance remains one of their most underrated qualities.
Overall Grade: A
The Dodgers did not overextend themselves financially, but they made solid moves that will keep them competitive in the postseason hunt. While they didn’t make any huge, eye-catching moves, the Dodgers are always a threat to win it all, and this offseason didn’t change that.
New York Yankees: B+ (Did They Do Enough?)
The New York Yankees came into the offseason with high expectations, and while they made some important moves, there’s an underlying question—did they do enough to truly improve their roster and keep up with the top dogs in the American League?
Key Moves:
- Carlos Rodón Signing: The Yankees made a splash by signing left-handed ace Carlos Rodón to a six-year deal. Rodón’s strikeout ability gives the Yankees an added weapon in their rotation, which already includes Gerrit Cole. The signing was a necessary one, as it addresses some of the questions about New York’s pitching depth and bolsters their starting rotation.
- Bringing Back Aaron Judge: The Yankees’ offseason was kicked off with the massive news of Aaron Judge re-signing with the team. As the reigning AL MVP, Judge’s presence is critical to the Yankees’ success. His power bat and leadership role make him the focal point of the offense, and retaining him was paramount.
- Infield Upgrades: The Yankees signed veterans like Anthony Rizzo and made other moves to secure their infield. While these aren’t headline-grabbing moves, they are critical to maintaining the team’s stability and depth.
- Outfield Issues: While Judge is a superstar, the Yankees still have questions in the outfield. Their struggles with injury-prone players and underperforming veterans continue to loom large. Adding more depth in the outfield or making a big move for a player like Bryan Reynolds could have made a significant difference.
Overall Grade: B+
While the Yankees improved their pitching staff and secured the face of the franchise in Aaron Judge, they didn’t address all of their needs. The lack of a major outfield acquisition or trade to solidify their lineup could be a lingering issue for them. Their offseason was solid but perhaps not enough to close the gap between themselves and other AL contenders like the Houston Astros.
Four Teams Who Failed to Make a Major Impact This Offseason
While the Mets, Dodgers, and Yankees took bold steps, several teams missed the mark, either by not being aggressive enough or making questionable moves that could hold them back in the 2024 season.
1. Chicago Cubs (C-)
The Cubs didn’t make the massive splash that many expected. Their additions—such as signing Jameson Taillon to a four-year deal—were solid but not game-changing. Chicago’s roster still feels incomplete, especially in the hitting department. The Cubs’ decision to not go all-in on a star player or make a significant trade may keep them stuck in the middle of the National League for another season.
2. Miami Marlins (D)
The Marlins’ offseason was a major disappointment. Despite having a solid pitching staff, their offense is still lacking. Miami didn’t make any significant moves to bolster their lineup, and their inability to land big names is frustrating for a fanbase eager for progress. Without addressing their offensive issues, the Marlins will struggle to contend in the stacked NL East.
3. Cleveland Guardians (C)
Cleveland had one of the most underrated rosters in 2023 but failed to capitalize on their success with meaningful offseason moves. While the Guardians didn’t necessarily take a step backward, they didn’t move forward either. The lack of spending or commitment to improving their team is a missed opportunity for a franchise that is on the cusp of contention.
4. San Diego Padres (B-)
The Padres made a splash last offseason, but they didn’t do as much this winter. With a loaded roster already, San Diego chose to stand pat and maintain their existing lineup. While they didn’t fail entirely, they missed an opportunity to further strengthen their team, especially with some question marks in the bullpen and their starting pitching depth.
In an offseason filled with uncertainty and shifting strategies, the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers stand out as the clear winners, making smart moves that keep them in contention for World Series glory. The Mets’ aggressive approach and the Dodgers’ deep roster make them the teams to beat in the National League. On the other hand, the New York Yankees made some important moves but fell short of addressing all their needs, particularly in the outfield.
Meanwhile, several teams failed to make the necessary improvements, either due to lack of spending or missed opportunities. The Cubs, Marlins, Guardians, and Padres all could have done more to strengthen their chances in 2024 but will now face an uphill battle. As the season approaches, it’s clear that the teams who were most active in making changes—like the Mets and Dodgers—are the ones in the best position to succeed.
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