Get ready for an exciting new baseball season! With Spring Training just around the corner, it's time to take a closer look at some of the teams gearing up for a competitive 2026. These teams have already made some moves, but there's still work to be done to fill critical gaps and strengthen their rosters. Let's dive in and explore the strategies and challenges facing these potential contenders.
The Race to the Top: 10 Teams with Work to Do
As the offseason winds down, here are 10 teams with serious aspirations for the upcoming season, but they still have some key positions to address before the first pitch.
Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox have been active in the trade market, acquiring starters Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo, as well as first baseman Willson Contreras. While these moves bolster their roster, the Red Sox could benefit from adding another impactful batter, especially after trading Rafael Devers. Shortstop Bo Bichette and outfielders Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger are among the top free agents, but re-signing third baseman Alex Bregman seems like a natural fit. If not, slugger Eugenio Suárez could be an option. Boston's bullpen could also use some reinforcement, but their priority should be finding that power bat.
Mets
The New York Mets have strengthened their bullpen with former Yankees relievers and signed veteran Jorge Polanco. However, with fan favorites Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz signing elsewhere, the Mets might feel the need for a big splash. After some trades, the Mets have room to add a batter to their lineup led by Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto. With a deep farm system, the Mets could turn to the trade market or free agency to address their rotation needs, especially for covering innings.
Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays came close to their first World Series title in decades and are set to field an impressive starting rotation in 2026. They signed Dylan Cease and added KBO MVP Cody Ponce to an already strong unit. The Blue Jays also signed durable reliever Tyler Rogers. However, they have an opportunity to further strengthen their lineup, perhaps by re-signing Bichette, who led the AL in hits in 2021 and 2022. Toronto has been linked to top free agents like Tucker and Bregman, but adding a big bat or two would truly complete their offseason moves.
Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles have been active this offseason after a last-place finish, making moves in the free-agent and trade markets. They signed first baseman Pete Alonso and added reliever Ryan Helsley. Baltimore could use an elite arm to pair with Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish at the front of their rotation. The O's have been targeting top free-agent starters like Framber Valdez and Tatsuya Imai, who could transform their rotation into a strength. With a talented lineup, the Orioles seem poised to compete again in 2026, and adding a big-name starter could be the final piece.
Astros
The Houston Astros' streak of AL West titles came to an end in 2025, and they haven't made many moves to reclaim the division. While their core is intact, the Astros are unlikely to re-sign rotation fixture Framber Valdez. With injuries to Ronel Blanco and Hayden Wesneski, Houston could benefit from upgrading their rotation. So far, they've acquired right-handed starter Mike Burrows in a three-team trade and added shortstop Nick Allen. The Astros still have talent, but a significant move, especially for a starting pitcher, could boost their chances in 2026.
Cubs
The Chicago Cubs have undergone a major bullpen shakeup, trading reliever Andrew Kittredge and signing free agents like Phil Maton and Hoby Milner. The Cubs re-signed Caleb Thielbar and kept starter Shota Imanaga. After a close NLDS loss, the Cubs are close to being an elite NL team, but they seem hesitant to meet Tucker's contract demands. Adding a starter or an impact bat could significantly improve their chances, but finding the right fit is crucial. The Cubs are reportedly interested in Alex Bregman, so stay tuned.
Giants
The San Francisco Giants aim to break out of their .500 purgatory, having won between 79 and 81 games for the past four seasons. New manager Tony Vitello might be the spark they need, but his roster has some holes. The Giants signed Adrian Houser and Tyler Mahle, but they could use more impactful pitching. The rotation could use an upgrade, and the team might consider reuniting with Justin Verlander or Max Scherzer. On offense, the Giants must decide on their second base situation, and a deal with Bichette could be an option.
Yankees
The New York Yankees have had a relatively idle offseason compared to their AL East rivals. They re-signed Trent Grisham and left-hander Ryan Yarbrough. The missing piece is Cody Bellinger, whose left-handed swing is a perfect fit for Yankee Stadium. The Yankees are interested in a reunion, but there's a chance he signs elsewhere. If so, Tucker could be Plan B. Re-signing Bellinger should be a priority to keep their high-scoring lineup intact.
Brewers
The Milwaukee Brewers had their best regular season ever but have had a quiet offseason. They've added rotation depth with Brandon Woodruff and Angel Zerpa. Despite trade rumors, they've held onto their ace, Freddy Peralta. Milwaukee could use a power bat, and with limited payroll flexibility, a trade might be their best option. Last season, the Brewers had a low barrel rate and hit few home runs, so addressing their power issues is crucial.
Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians could use some offensive reinforcement. Their .670 OPS last season ranked second-to-last in the Majors. With a strong player development system, improvements might come from within, like second baseman Travis Bazzana and outfielder Chase DeLauter. However, they need to address their struggles against left-handed pitching. Free-agent signings like Harrison Bader or Miguel Andujar could provide an above-average bat and improve their lineup.
These teams have some work to do, but with the right moves, they could be contenders in 2026. Stay tuned as the offseason unfolds and these teams shape their rosters for the upcoming season!
