MLB Offseason Buzz: Teams Prioritize Pitching Depth, Eye Veteran Bats and Strategic Trades
December 3, 2025
The overarching theme of the offseason is pitching, with teams prioritizing starting-rotation depth and bullpen reliability, while several clubs also seek veteran or upgrade-driven position-player options to balance lineups and sustain competitive windows.
Across franchises, the focus on pitching depth and rotation upgrades remains paramount, driven by a slate of high-profile free agents and trade targets shaping strategic planning.
The Atlanta Braves may lean on internal shortstop options and avoid a marquee name, as Bichette’s fit is questioned due to defense and market pricing.
Detroit Tigers need a power bat to protect Riley Greene and Kerry Carpenter, with discussions of pursuing top hitters like Bregman or Bichette amid payroll considerations and potential re-signing of Tarik Skubal.
Detroit also seeks another middle-to-upper-order bat to bolster lineup protection and support their rotation, particularly if they keep Skubal.
The New York Yankees are seeking a veteran outfielder with MLB experience to offset Jasson Domíquez’s development and potentially partner with Cody Bellinger or other free-agent targets in center field.
Options for the Yankees include retaining Cody Bellinger or pursuing other experienced outfielders like Kyle Tucker, while integrating young prospects such as Domínguez and Spencer Jones.
Kansas City Royals' primary need is outfield production given historically weak outfield fWAR, with a focus on adding an impact bat while maintaining depth in pitching.
The Chicago Cubs face a budget-conscious path, weighing the potential loss of Kyle Tucker and offsetting offense with pitching depth, with Alex Bregman as a possible but expensive fit.
The New York Mets aim to add an ace to front their rotation, weighing options like Tarik Skubal, Joe Ryan, or Framber Valdez following recent moves to strengthen run prevention.
Baltimore Orioles need more pitching depth to support emerging talent like Gunnar Henderson, even after signing closer Ryan Helsley.
Philadelphia Phillies seek lineup depth, particularly in right field and catcher, with questions surrounding J.T. Realmuto, Kyle Schwarber, and potential outfield additions amid possible moves for Nick Castellanos.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

ESPN • Dec 3, 2025
MLB 2025-26 offseason: Biggest needs for 10 contending teams - ESPN
ESPN • Dec 3, 2025
MLB 2025-26 offseason: Biggest needs for 10 contending teams - ESPN