Evaluating the MLB Offseason Moves: Winners and Losers

The 2024-25 MLB offseason is officially underway, and teams are making aggressive moves to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season. Here’s our rundown of the most significant signings and trades, with grades for each transaction and an analysis of what it means for the teams involved.

A's Acquisition of Severino: Big Risk or Smart Gamble?

Deal: 3 years, $67 million
Grade: C+

The Oakland Athletics have made headlines by signing Luis Severino, marking the biggest free-agent deal in franchise history. While Severino has shown flashes of brilliance, concerns linger over his durability and consistency. The A's are banking on his potential amidst a looming season in Sacramento.

Yankees Reload with Goldschmidt and Bellinger

Goldschmidt Deal: 1 year, $12.5 million
Bellinger Deal: RHP Cody Poteet sent to Chicago
Grade: B

The Yankees have fortified their first base position with Goldschmidt, fresh off a rough season. Meanwhile, Bellinger's return to form makes him a valuable asset in centerfield. Both signings highlight the Yankees' strategy of blending veteran experience with high upside.

Dodgers’ Multi-Faceted Moves

Scherzer and Snell Signings: Totaling $182 million
Conforto Signing: 1 year, $17 million
Grade: A-

The Dodgers continue their championship push, adding top talent like Snell and a bounce-back candidate in Conforto. Scherzer's addition to a stacked rotation adds another layer to their formidable postseason aspirations.

Giants Secure Verlander

Deal: 1 year, $15 million
Grade: A

The San Francisco Giants' signing of Justin Verlander marks a bold move in pursuit of a competitive edge. Despite questions about his health at 42, Verlander's experience and skill could provide significant upside.

The Royals Trade Brady Singer

Trade: Royals receive Jonathan India and Joey Wiemer
Grade: C+

Trading a reliable pitcher like Singer for two position players represents the Royals' attempt to pivot to a more offensively focused roster. India's potential for improvement could pay off, but they risk disrupting a proven rotation dynamic.

Conclusion

The MLB offseason has set the stage for a competitive 2025 season. With teams like the Dodgers and Yankees investing heavily in talent, and others like the A's and Royals making calculated risks, the league is primed for an exciting year ahead. Stay tuned as we continue to track player movements and their respective impacts on teams across the league!