Updated Grades for Every MLB Team's Offseason at the Start of Spring
The MLB offseason has come to an end, as all 30 MLB teams have reported to spring training and preseason games are set to kick off next week.
It was an eventful offseason, headlined by the Seattle Mariners signing of Robinson Cano, the New York Yankees spending big on a handful of guys (including Japanese right-hander Masahiro Tanaka) and several free agents struggling to find homes after receiving qualifying offers.
In fact, right-hander Ervin Santana, shortstop Stephen Drew, outfielder Nelson Cruz and first baseman Kendrys Morales are still without homes at the start of spring training.
Where those four wind up could certainly change things, but here is a look at how all 30 MLB teams graded out this offseason. Think of a grade of "C" as being neutral—meaning the team has not gotten any better or any worse this offseason—with the rest of the grades stemming out from there.
*All stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference, unless otherwise noted.
Arizona Diamondbacks
1 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| LF Mark Trumbo | .234/.294/.453, 34 HR, 100 RBI, 85 R | Trade-LAA |
| SP Bronson Arroyo | 32 GS, 14-12, 3.79 ERA, 124 K, 202 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Addison Reed | 68 G, 5-4, 40 SV, 3.79 ERA, 9.1 K/9 | Trade-CWS |
| 3B Eric Chavez | .281/.332/.478, 9 HR, 44 RBI, 28 R | Re-signed |
| OF Matt Tuiasosopo | .244/.351/.415, 7 HR, 30 RBI, 26 R | Waivers |
| C Henry Blanco | .142/.228/.246, 3 HR, 14 RBI, 11 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Looking to make a run at a playoff spot in 2014, the Arizona Diamondbacks entered the offseason looking for a power bat to protect Paul Goldschmidt in the lineup as well as a proven closer and a front-line starter.
They shipped out Tyler Skaggs, Matt Davidson and Adam Eaton in a pair of trades to acquire slugger Mark Trumbo and young closer Addison Reed, respectively, filling the first two needs with potential impact players.
However, after missing out on Masahiro Tanaka, they wound up settling for Bronson Arroyo on a two-year, $23.5 million deal to fill out their rotation. He's not the ace-caliber arm they wanted, but he still improves the staff as a whole.
Grade: B+
Atlanta Braves
2 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| C Ryan Doumit | .247/.314/.396, 14 HR, 55 RBI, 49 R | Trade-MIN |
| SP Gavin Floyd | 5 GS, 0-4, 5.18 ERA, 25 K, 24.1 IP | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
1B Freddie Freeman (eight-year, $135 million)
SS Andrelton Simmons (seven-year, $58 million)
RP Craig Kimbrel (four-year, $42 million)
SP Julio Teheran (six-year, $32.4 million)
RF Jason Heyward (two-year, $13.3 million)
Offseason Overview
The Atlanta Braves didn't have many holes to plug this offseason, so it was an understandably slow winter as far as adding pieces is concerned. However, they have been busy locking up their young, homegrown talent to long-term deals.
Ryan Doumit has been the big acquisition, as he will assume the role Evan Gattis filled last season as the primary pinch-hitter and backup at catcher and corner outfield. Meanwhile, Gattis moves into the everyday catcher job, replacing the departed Brian McCann.
The biggest move was locking up MVP-candidate Freddie Freeman on a big eight-year deal, and he was one of five core pieces to be handed extensions. The team could yet look to extend Mike Minor and Kris Medlen, too, but the key pieces have been taken care of.
Grade: A
Baltimore Orioles
3 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Ubaldo Jimenez | 32 GS, 13-9, 3.30 ERA, 194 K, 182.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Suk-Min Yoon | ~30 G, 3-6, 4.00 ERA, 76 K, 87.2 IP | Free Agent |
| LF David Lough | .286/.311/.413, 5 HR, 33 RBI, 35 R | Trade-KC |
| RP Ryan Webb | 66 G, 2-6, 2.91 ERA, 54 K, 80.1 IP | Free Agent |
| 2B Jemile Weeks | *.271/.376/.369, 4 HR, 40 RBI, 96 R | Trade-OAK |
| RP Brad Brach | 33 G, 1-0, 3.19 ERA, 31 K, 31 IP | Trade-SD |
| OF Delmon Young | .260/.307/.407, 11 HR, 38 RBI, 30 R | Free Agent |
*Triple-A stats, ~Stats in Korea
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
After a surprise run to the playoffs in 2012, the Baltimore Orioles were in the thick of things once again in 2013. They inevitably fell short, though, due in large part to their subpar starting rotation, and upgrading there was a clear area of need entering the offseason.
They waited until the market died down and wound up signing Ubaldo Jimenez to a four-year, $50 million deal to join Chris Tillman atop the staff. If he can repeat his 2013 performance, and if prospects Kevin Gausman and Dylan Bundy can make an impact, the team's rotation could be a strength.
Second base, left field and designated hitter remain question marks entering the season, and the Orioles will have their work cut out for them if they hope to return to the playoffs. Jimenez and Suk-Min Yoon could make a big difference on the pitching side of things, though.
Grade: C+
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Boston Red Sox
4 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| 1B Mike Napoli | .259/.360/.482, 23 HR, 92 RBI, 79 R | Re-signed |
| C A.J. Pierzynski | .272/.297/.425, 17 HR, 70 RBI, 48 R | Free Agent |
| RP Edward Mujica | 65 G, 2-1, 37 SV, 2.78 ERA, 46 K, 64.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Burke Badenhop | 63 G, 2-3, 3.47 ERA, 42 K, 62.1 IP | Trade-MIL |
| SP Chris Capuano | 20 GS, 4-7, 4.26 ERA, 81 K, 105.2 IP | Free Agent |
| CF Grady Sizemore | *.224/.285/.422, 10 HR, 32 RBI, 34 R | Trade-COL |
| IF Jonathan Herrera | .292/.336/.364, 1 HR, 16 RBI, 16 R | Trade-COL |
*2011 Stats
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The defending champs watched as Jacoby Ellsbury, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Stephen Drew departed in free agency, and while Drew has yet to find a home and could yet return, there will be some change to the lineup nonetheless.
A.J. Pierzynski was signed to replace Saltalamacchia behind the plate, and first baseman Mike Napoli was also brought back on a two-year, $32 million deal. However, they'll turn to rookies Jackie Bradley and Xander Bogaerts to start in center field and at shortstop, respectively.
The bullpen was bolstered by the additions of Edward Mujica and Burke Badenhop, and Chris Capuano was added to offset the loss of Ryan Dempster. They will have a different look in 2014, but the Red Sox should have every chance to defend their AL East title.
Grade: B+
Chicago Cubs
5 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Jason Hammel | 23 GS, 7-8, 4.97 ERA, 96 K, 139.1 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Jose Veras | 67 G, 0-5, 21 SV, 3.02 ERA, 60 K, 62.2 IP | Free Agent |
| UT Emilio Bonifacio | .243/.295/.331, 3 HR, 31 RBI, 54 R | Free Agent |
| SP James McDonald | 6 GS, 2-2, 5.76 ERA, 25 K, 29.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Wesley Wright | 70 G, 0-4, 3.69 ERA, 55 K, 53.2 IP | Free Agent |
| OF Justin Ruggiano | .222/.298/.396, 18 HR, 50 RBI, 49 R | Trade-MIA |
| IF Ryan Roberts | .247/.295/.377, 5 HR, 17 RBI, 15 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Though they eventually lost out to the New York Yankees, the Chicago Cubs made a serious run at Japanese right-hander Masahiro Tanaka. That was the biggest story of the offseason in what has been an otherwise quiet winter on the North Side.
Jason Hammel should help fill out the back of the rotation, while veteran relievers Wesley Wright and Jose Veras will be welcome additions to a bullpen that posted a 4.04 ERA to finish 25th in the league last season.
Emilio Bonifacio is an interesting addition, as he signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal following his release by the Kansas City Royals. He could push light-hitting Darwin Barney at second base, and if nothing else, he'll provide the team with a versatile fielder and some plus speed.
Grade: C
Chicago White Sox
6 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| 1B Jose Abreu | +.382/.535/.735, 13 HR, 36 RBI, 37 R | Free Agent |
| CF Adam Eaton | .252/.314/.360, 3 HR, 22 RBI, 40 R | Trade-ARI |
| 3B Matt Davidson | *.280/.350/.481, 17 HR, 74 RBI, 55 R | Trade-ARI |
| SP Felipe Paulino | ~7 GS, 3-1, 1.67 ERA, 39 K, 37.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Scott Downs | 68 G, 4-4, 2.49 ERA, 37 K, 43.1 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Ronald Belisario | 77 G, 5-7, 3.97 ERA, 49 K, 68 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Mitchell Boggs | 27 G, 0-3, 8.10 ERA, 16 K, 23.1 IP | Free Agent |
| 1B Paul Konerko | .244/.313/.355, 12 HR, 54 RBI, 41 R | Re-signed |
*Triple-A stats, ~2012 stats, +2013 stats in Cuba
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
This offseason has seen the Chicago White Sox continue a youth movement that began last August, when they dealt high-priced veterans Jake Peavy and Alex Rios.
Center fielder Adam Eaton and third baseman Matt Davidson were acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks in separate trades for left-hander Hector Santiago and closer Addison Reed, respectively, and they should both have an everyday job when camp breaks.
The team also added a trio of arms to their bullpen in free agency, but their big signing was Cuban slugger Jose Abreu. He'll step into the starting first-base spot and be relied upon as a run producer in the middle of the order after agreeing to a six-year, $68 million deal.
Grade: A
Cincinnati Reds
7 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| RP Manny Parra | 57 G, 2-3, 3.33 ERA, 56 K, 46 IP | Re-signed |
| UT Skip Schumaker | .263/.332/.332, 2 HR, 30 RBI, 31 R | Free Agent |
| C Brayan Pena | .297/.315/.397, 4 HR, 22 RBI, 19 R | Free Agent |
| IF Ramon Santiago | .224/.298/.288, 1 HR, 14 RBI, 27 R | Free Agent |
| OF Roger Bernadina | .181/.250/.295, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 26 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
SP Homer Bailey (six-year, $105 million)
Offseason Overview
Despite the losses of Shin-Soo Choo and Bronson Arroyo in free agency, the Cincinnati Reds didn't have much to do this offseason. In-house options in Billy Hamilton and Tony Cingrani will replace those two veterans, leaving the team without any major holes.
The bench was bolstered with the signings of Skip Schumaker and Brayan Pena, while non-roster invitees Ramon Santiago and Roger Bernadina look like the front-runners for the final reserve spot.
The big move was re-signing Homer Bailey to a six-year, $105 million deal. The 27-year-old was set to hit free agency next winter, and with him locked up, the team can now look to lock up fellow starters Mat Latos and Johnny Cueto.
Grade: B-
Cleveland Indians
8 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| RP John Axford | 75 G, 7-7, 4.02 ERA, 65 K, 65 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Josh Outman | 61 G, 3-0, 4.33 ERA, 53 K, 54 IP | Trade-COL |
| RF David Murphy | .220/.282/.374, 13 HR, 45 RBI, 51 R | Free Agent |
| 1B David Cooper | .300/.324/.464, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 16 R | Free Agent |
| 3B David Adams | .193/.252/.286, 2 HR, 13 RBI, 10 R | Free Agent |
| SP Shaun Marcum | 12 GS, 1-10, 5.29 ERA, 60 K, 78.1 IP | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
LF Michael Brantley (four-year, $25 million)
Offseason Overview
It looks as though the Cleveland Indians will count on their incumbent starters to replace the departed duo of Ubaldo Jimenez and Scott Kazmir. Indeed, a big season from Danny Salazar and another step forward from Corey Kluber could very well offset those losses.
The bullpen was an issue last season, and it's undergone a significant overhaul this offseason. Gone are Chris Perez, Joe Smith, Matt Albers and Rich Hill, while John Axford and Josh Outman have been brought aboard. Time will tell if that's enough for them to improve upon last year's performance.
Michael Brantley has quietly emerged as a plus option in the outfield over the past two years, and the 26-year-old was rewarded with a four-year, $25 million deal this winter that buys out his arbitration years and a year of free agency.
Grade: C
Colorado Rockies
9 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Brett Anderson | 16 G, 1-4, 6.04 ERA, 46 K, 44.2 IP | Trade-OAK |
| RP LaTroy Hawkins | 72 G, 3-2, 13 SV, 2.93 ERA, 55 K, 70.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Boone Logan | 61 G, 5-2, 3.23 ERA, 50 K, 39 IP | Free Agent |
| 1B Justin Morneau | .259/.323/.411, 17 HR, 77 RBI, 62 R | Free Agent |
| RP Franklin Morales | 20 G, 2-2, 4.62 ERA, 21 K, 25.1 IP | Trade-BOS |
| OF Drew Stubbs | .233/.305/.360, 10 HR, 45 RBI, 59 R | Trade-CLE |
| OF Brandon Barnes | .240/.289/.346, 8 HR, 41 RBI, 46 R | Trade-HOU |
| SP Jordan Lyles | 25 GS, 7-9, 5.59 ERA, 93 K, 141.2 IP | Trade-HOU |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Despite improving their team ERA from 5.22 in 2012 to 4.44 this past season, pitching remains the biggest issue for the Colorado Rockies.
Jhoulys Chacin and Jorge De La Rosa form a solid one-two punch atop the rotation, and the team added the injury-prone but talented Brett Anderson and right-hander Jordan Lyles to the mix. In the bullpen, LaTroy Hawkins and Boone Logan join Rex Brothers to form a solid late-inning trio.
Offensively, Justin Morneau was signed to a two-year, $12.5 million deal to replace the retired Todd Helton at first base. Carlos Gonzalez will slide over to center field to replace the departed Dexter Fowler, with a trio of incumbents set to join newly-acquired Drew Stubbs in a battle for the starting left field job.
Grade: B+
Detroit Tigers
10 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| 2B Ian Kinsler | .277/.344/.413, 13 HR, 72 RBI, 85 R | Trade-TEX |
| RP Joe Nathan | 67 G, 6-2, 43 SV, 1.39 ERA, 73 K, 64.2 IP | Free Agent |
| OF Rajai Davis | .260/.312/.375, 6 HR, 24 RBI, 49 R, 45 SB | Free Agent |
| RP Ian Krol | 32 G, 2-1, 3.95 ERA, 22 K, 27.1 IP | Trade-WAS |
| RP Joba Chamberlain | 45 G, 2-1, 4.93 ERA, 38 K, 42 IP | Free Agent |
| UTIL Steve Lombardozzi | .259/.278/.338, 2 HR, 22 RBI, 25 R | Trade-WAS |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
It's been a busy offseason for the Detroit Tigers, as a pair of key contributors in Prince Fielder and Doug Fister were traded to free up some payroll room.
With Fielder gone, Miguel Cabrera will slide back to first base, and top prospect Nick Castellanos will assume the everyday third-base job. As for replacing Fister, last year's top setup man Drew Smyly will return to the rotation, where he more than held his own as a rookie in 2012.
Ian Kinsler was acquired in the Fielder trade, and he gives the team a bona fide leadoff hitter, allowing them to move Austin Jackson down in the order. Perhaps the biggest addition though was closer Joe Nathan, who shores up a bullpen that was a major question mark for the first half of last season.
Grade: C
Houston Astros
11 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| CF Dexter Fowler | .263/.369/.407, 12 HR, 42 RBI, 71 R | Trade-COL |
| SP Scott Feldman | 30 GS, 12-12, 3.86 ERA, 132 K, 181.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Jesse Crain | 38 G, 2-2, 0.74 ERA, 46 K, 36.2 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Chad Qualls | 66 G, 5-2, 2.61 ERA, 49 K, 62 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Matt Albers | 56 G, 3-1, 3.14 ERA, 35 K, 63 IP | Free Agent |
| SP Jerome Williams | 25 GS, 9-10, 4.57 ERA, 107 K, 169.1 IP | Free Agent |
| OF Jesus Guzman | .226/.297/.378, 9 HR, 35 RBI, 33 R | Trade-SD |
| SS Cesar Izturis | .209/.259/.271, 0 HR, 11 RBI, 6 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Last offseason, the low-cost signings of Carlos Pena and Erik Bedard ranked as the big moves of the winter for the Houston Astros, and they've been much more active this time around.
Scott Feldman was signed to a three-year, $30 million deal to front a young rotation, while Jerome Williams was added to contend for the No. 5 starter spot, and a trio of veteran relievers should help shore up what was a shaky bullpen last year.
The biggest move, though, was the acquisition of Dexter Fowler in a trade with the Colorado Rockies. All it cost the Astros was right-hander Jordan Lyles and outfielder Brandon Barnes, and the 27-year-old Fowler figures to be a piece they can build around moving forward.
Grade: B+
Kansas City Royals
12 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Jason Vargas | 24 GS, 9-8, 4.02 ERA, 109 K, 150 IP | Free Agent |
| 2B Omar Infante | .318/.345/.450, 10 HR, 51 RBI, 54 R | Free Agent |
| RF Norichika Aoki | .286/.356/.370, 8 HR, 37 RBI, 80 R | Trade-MIL |
| 3B Danny Valencia | .304/.335/.553, 8 HR, 23 RBI, 20 R | Trade-BAL |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The Kansas City Royals' offseason needs were very clear from the start, as they were looking for a veteran starter to replace Ervin Santana and upgrades at second base and in right field.
All three issues were addressed before Christmas, as Jason Vargas (four-year, $32 million deal) and Omar Infante (four-year, $30.25 million deal) were added in free agency, and Norichika Aoki was acquired in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers for reliever Will Smith.
Aoki and Infante will likely hit 1-2 in the Royals' lineup this coming season, while Vargas will be slotted behind James Shields and Jeremy Guthrie in the rotation. Will those additions be enough for the team to secure their first postseason berth since 1985?
Grade: A
Los Angeles Angels
13 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Hector Santiago | 23 GS, 4-9, 3.56 ERA, 137 K, 149 IP | Trade-CWS |
| 3B David Freese | .262/.340/.381, 9 HR, 60 RBI, 53 R | Trade-STL |
| SP Tyler Skaggs | 7 GS, 2-3, 5.12 ERA, 36 K, 38.2 IP | Trade-ARI |
| RP Joe Smith | 70 G, 6-2, 2.29 ERA, 54 K, 63 IP | Free Agent |
| DH Raul Ibanez | .242/.306/.487, 29 HR, 65 RBI, 54 R | Free Agent |
| 1B Carlos Pena | .207/.321/.346, 8 HR, 25 RBI, 38 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Filling out the starting rotation behind Jered Weaver, C.J. Wilson and Garrett Richards was without question the Los Angeles Angles' biggest need this offseason. The question concerned whether they would fill those holes in free agency or via trade.
It wound up being the latter, as slugger Mark Trumbo was shipped to the Arizona Diamondbacks in a three-team deal at the winter meetings. The Angels wound up with left-handers Hector Santiago and Tyler Skaggs in return, and those two look like the lead candidates to round out the staff.
David Freese was acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals for outfielder Peter Bourjos, and he figures to be an upgrade at third base, while veterans Raul Ibanez and Carlos Pena will battle it out to replace Trumbo. Left-hander Joe Smith was also added to the bullpen on a surprisingly large three-year, $15.75 million deal.
Grade: B+
Los Angeles Dodgers
14 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Dan Haren | 30 GS, 10-14, 4.67 ERA, 151 K, 169.2 IP | Free Agent |
| SP Paul Maholm | 26 GS, 10-11, 4.41 ERA, 105 K, 153 IP | Free Agent |
| 3B Juan Uribe | .278/.331/.438, 12 HR, 50 RBI, 47 R | Re-signed |
| 2B Alex Guerrero | *.290/.402/.576, 21 HR, 51 RBI, 51 R | Free Agent |
| RP Brian Wilson | 18 G, 2-1, 0.66 ERA, 13 K, 13.2 IP | Re-signed |
| RP Chris Perez | 54 G, 5-3, 25 SV, 4.33 ERA, 54 K, 54 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Jamey Wright | 66 G, 2-2, 3.09 ERA, 65 K, 70 IP | Free Agent |
| RP J.P. Howell | 67 G, 4-1, 2.03 ERA, 54 K, 62 IP | Re-signed |
*2012 stats in Cuba
Multi-Year Extensions
SP Clayton Kershaw (seven-year, $215 million)
Offseason Overview
Missing out on Masahiro Tanaka was unfortunate, but the Los Angeles Dodgers had a solid offseason, nonetheless, and they look to be in a good position to make another run at the St. Louis Cardinals and the NL pennant.
Dan Haren and Paul Maholm were added to the starting rotation mix, while Brian Wilson and J.P. Howell were re-signed to join newcomers Chris Perez and Jamey Wright in what should be a better bullpen from top to bottom this year.
Cuban defector Alexander Guerrero was signed to a four-year, $28 million deal to replace Mark Ellis as the everyday second baseman, with veteran Juan Uribe also being re-signed to serve as the starting third baseman once again.
Grade: A
Miami Marlins
15 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| C Jarrod Saltalamacchia | .273/.338/.466, 14 HR, 65 RBI, 68 R | Free Agent |
| 1B Garrett Jones | .233/.289/.419, 15 HR, 51 RBI, 41 R | Free Agent |
| 2B Rafael Furcal | *.264/.325/.346, 5 HR, 49 RBI, 69 R | Free Agent |
| 3B Casey McGehee | *.217/.284/.358, 9 HR, 41 RBI, 36 R | Free Agent |
| IF Jeff Baker | .279/.360/.545, 11 HR, 21 RBI, 21 R | Free Agent |
| RP Carlos Marmol | 52 G, 2-4, 4.41 ERA, 59 K, 49 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Carter Capps | 53 G, 3-3, 5.49 ERA, 66 K, 59 IP | Trade-SEA |
| OF Brian Bogusevic | .273/.323/.462, 6 HR, 16 RBI, 18 R | Trade-CHC |
*2012 stats
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Last winter, the Miami Marlins were in full-blown fire-sale mode, as they shipped out a good portion of their veteran core in an effort to cut costs coming off of a wildly disappointing first season in their new stadium.
The result was an anemic offense that ranked dead last in the MLB with 3.17 runs per game. Fortunately, the team's young pitching staff actually wound up being a strength and looks to have an incredibly bright future with phenom Jose Fernandez leading the way.
Looking to fill in the offensive gaps this offseason, the team added Garrett Jones, Rafael Furcal, Casey McGehee and Jeff Baker on short-term deals as stop-gap options, while also signing Jarrod Saltalamacchia to a three-year, $21 million deal to lead their young staff from behind the plate. They won't be the '27 Yankees, but their offense should be markedly better in 2014.
Grade: B+
Milwaukee Brewers
16 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Matt Garza | 24 GS, 10-6, 3.82 ERA, 136 K, 155.1 IP | Free Agent |
| 1B Mark Reynolds | .220/.306/.393, 21 HR, 67 RBI, 55 R | Free Agent |
| RP Will Smith | 19 G, 2-1, 3.24 ERA, 43 K, 33.1 IP | Trade-KC |
| 1B Lyle Overbay | .240/.295/.393, 14 HR, 59 RBI, 43 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The return of Ryan Braun and a healthy season from Aramis Ramirez could go an awful long way in turning things around for a Milwaukee Brewers team that went from the highest-scoring offense in the NL in 2012 to struggling to push across runs this past season.
The only glaring hole entering the offseason was first base, as Corey Hart missed all of 2013 and signed with Seattle in free agency. Also, the group that stepped in for him last year—led by Juan Francisco—hit a combined .206/.259/.370.
The team didn't make a splash this winter, but it added veterans Mark Reynolds and Lyle Overbay to the mix on minor-league free-agent deals.
The team then stepped forward as surprise contenders for right-hander Matt Garza and wound up signing the veteran to a reasonable four-year, $50 million deal. He joins Kyle Lohse, Yovani Gallardo, Marco Estrada and Wily Peralta to form a rotation that could be a pleasant surprise if each of them stay healthy and pitch to their potential.
Grade: A-
Minnesota Twins
17 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Ricky Nolasco | 33 GS, 13-11, 3.70 ERA, 165 K, 199.1 IP | Free Agent |
| SP Phil Hughes | 29 GS, 4-14, 5.19 ERA, 121 K, 145.2 IP | Free Agent |
| SP Mike Pelfrey | 29 GS, 5-13, 5.19 ERA, 101 K, 152.2 IP | Re-signed |
| C Kurt Suzuki | .232/.290/.337, 5 HR, 32 RBI, 25 R | Free Agent |
| DH Jason Kubel | .216/.293/.317, 5 HR, 32 RBI, 21 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
After their starters had quality starts in an MLB-worst 38 percent of games last season, it was clear that the Twins needed to address their rotation in the offseason, and they've done just that. Ricky Nolasco and Phil Hughes were given the two biggest free-agent deals in team history, and Mike Pelfrey was re-signed as well.
That should help them improve upon a 5.26 team ERA last season. However, the fact of the matter is that Nolasco is a only good No. 3 starter on a contender, and the rest of the Twins' rotation is a collection of No. 5-starter types. They'll be better, but expect them to still be among the worst in the league.
Veteran Kurt Suzuki was signed to replace Joe Mauer behind the plate, as Mauer moves to first base full-time. Slugger Jason Kubel headlines a trio of former Twins who received non-roster invites along with Jason Bartlett and Matt Guerrier.
Grade: B-
New York Mets
18 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| LF Curtis Granderson | .229/.317/.407, 7 HR, 15 RBI, 31 R | Free Agent |
| SP Bartolo Colon | 30 GS, 18-6, 2.65 ERA, 117 K, 190.1 IP | Free Agent |
| RF Chris Young | .200/.280/.379, 12 HR, 40 RBI, 46 R | Free Agent |
| RP Kyle Farnsworth | 48 G, 3-1, 4.70 ERA, 28 K, 38.1 IP | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The New York Mets had a ton of money coming off the books this winter, and they were expected to be busy as a result. Chances are they won't make a legitimate run at contention until 2015 at the earliest, but their offseason moves could help them at least be more competitive this coming season.
Curtis Granderson and Chris Young were signed to join Juan Lagares in outfield, as the team struggled mightily to get production out of it's outfielders last season. The question now is whether Granderson can still produce elite run-production numbers without the short porch that Yankee Stadium provided.
Veteran Bartolo Colon was also inked to a two-year, $20 million deal to help ease the loss of Matt Harvey. How much the 40-year-old has left in the tank remains to be seen, but he was awfully good pitching for the Oakland A's last season.
Grade: B+
New York Yankees
19 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Masahiro Tanaka | *27 GS, 24-0, 1.27 ERA, 183 K, 212 IP | Free Agent |
| CF Jacoby Ellsbury | .298/.355/.426, 9 HR, 53 RBI, 92 R, 52 SB | Free Agent |
| C Brian McCann | .256/.336/.461, 20 HR, 57 RBI, 43 R | Free Agent |
| RF Carlos Beltran | .296/.339/.491, 24 HR, 84 RBI, 79 R | Free Agent |
| SP Hiroki Kuroda | 32 GS, 11-13, 3.31 ERA, 150 K, 201.1 IP | Re-signed |
| 3B Kelly Johnson | .235/.305/.410, 16 HR, 52 RBI, 41 R | Free Agent |
| RP Matt Thornton | 60 G, 0-4, 3.74 ERA, 30 K, 43.1 IP | Free Agent |
| 2B Brian Roberts | .249/.312/.392, 8 HR, 39 RBI, 33 R | Free Agent |
| SS Brendan Ryan | .197/.255/.273, 4 HR, 22 RBI, 30 R | Re-signed |
*2013 stats in Japan
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The New York Yankees set out to rebuild their roster after missing the postseason for just the second time since 1994, and while there are still question marks at second base, third base and in the bullpen, it's hard to argue against the sheer quantity of talent they've acquired this winter.
Three of the top bats on the market—Jacoby Ellsbury, Brian McCann and Carlos Beltran—were signed for a combined $283 million, and that was before the team won the Masahiro Tanaka sweepstakes and inked the Japanese right-hander to a seven-year, $155 million deal.
Brian Roberts and Kelly Johnson will open the season manning second and third base, respectively. That could prove to be an issue if injuries arise, as Eduardo Nunez and Brendan Ryan would be the next in line for the starting spots. The late-inning trio of Matt Thornton, Shawn Kelley and David Robertson also leaves something to be desired, but all in all, this looks like a team poised to return to October.
Grade: A
Oakland Athletics
20 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Scott Kazmir | 29 GS, 10-9, 4.04 ERA, 162 K, 158 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Jim Johnson | 74 G, 3-8, 50 SV, 2.94 ERA, 56 K, 70.1 IP | Trade-BAL |
| RP Luke Gregerson | 73 G, 6-8, 2.71 ERA, 64 K, 66.1 IP | Trade-SD |
| RP Eric O'Flaherty | 19 G, 3-0, 2.50 ERA, 11 K, 18 IP | Free Agent |
| OF Craig Gentry | .280/.373/.386, 2 HR, 22 RBI, 39 R, 24 SB | Trade-TEX |
| IF Nick Punto | .255/.328/.327, 2 HR, 21 RBI, 34 R | Free Agent |
| RP Fernando Abad | 39 G, 0-3, 3.35 ERA, 32 K, 37.2 IP | Trade-WSH |
Multi-Year Extensions
CF Coco Crisp (two-year, $22.75 million)
Offseason Overview
As usual, the Oakland Athletics have shied away from the splash signings and opted instead to make a handful of moves via trade to help reshape their roster for the upcoming season.
The big trade was acquiring All-Star closer Jim Johnson from the Baltimore Orioles for disappointing second baseman Jemile Weeks. Johnson led the AL in saves last year for the second straight season, but he also blew an MLB-high nine saves in the process. Luke Gregerson, Eric O'Flaherty and Fernando Abad were also added to the bullpen mix.
Craig Gentry was picked up to replace the departed Chris Young as an oft-used fourth outfielder, and veteran utility man Nick Punto was signed to bolster the bench. It was not a flashy offseason, but all seven of the guys listed above should make some sort of impact in 2014.
Grade: B
Philadelphia Phillies
21 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP A.J. Burnett | 30 GS, 10-11, 3.30 ERA, 209 K, 191 IP | Free Agent |
| RF Marlon Byrd | .291/.336/.511, 24 HR, 88 RBI, 75 R | Free Agent |
| C Carlos Ruiz | .268/.320/.368, 5 HR, 37 RBI, 30 R | Re-signed |
| SP Roberto Hernandez | 24 GS, 6-13, 4.89 ERA, 113 K, 151 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Brad Lincoln | 22 G, 1-2, 3.98 ERA, 25 K, 31.2 IP | Trade-TOR |
| RP Chad Gaudin | 30 G, 5-2, 3.06 ERA, 88 K, 97 IP | Free Agent |
| C Wil Nieves | .297/.320/.369, 1 HR, 22 RBI, 16 R | Free Agent |
| RF Bobby Abreu | *.242/.350/.342, 3 HR, 24 RBI, 29 R | Free Agent |
*2012 Stats
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Given an "F" the last time offseason grades were handed out roughly a month ago, the Phillies get bumped up a bit for their signing of right-hander A.J. Burnett to a very reasonable two-year, $22.5 million deal.
The signing continues an unsettling trend, though, as an already aging Phillies roster has gotten even older this offseason with the re-signing of Carlos Ruiz and addition of Marlon Byrd in right field.
This is a roster that needs to be blown up and rebuilt, as the best they can hope for in 2014 looks like a run at a winning record and a third-place finish in the NL East. Instead, the front office looks to be perfectly happy limping along as a competitive non-contender at this point.
Grade: D
Pittsburgh Pirates
22 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Edinson Volquez | 32 GS, 9-12, 5.71 ERA, 142 K, 170.1 IP | Free Agent |
| SS Clint Barmes | .211/.249/.309, 5 HR, 23 RBI, 22 R | Re-signed |
| C Chris Stewart | .211/.293/.272, 4 HR, 25 RBI, 28 R | Trade-NYY |
Multi-Year Extensions
SP Charlie Morton (three-year, $21 million)
Offseason Overview
Losing A.J. Burnett is certainly a blow to the rotation, as the veteran posted a 3.30 ERA and NL-high 9.8 K/9 in 191 innings of work last season. However, a full season of Gerrit Cole and healthy campaigns from Charlie Morton and Wandy Rodriguez should be enough to offset that loss.
Talented but erratic right-hander Edinson Volquez was also added to the starting-rotation mix, as the team looks to hit on a bounce-back candidate, much like they did with Francisco Liriano last offseason.
First base remains a hole, and at the very least, the team needs to find a left-handed hitting platoon partner for incumbent Gaby Sanchez. As things stand now, Andrew Lambo looks like the favorite to see the bulk of the at-bats, but the team could still explore trade options leading up to Opening Day.
Grade: C-
San Diego Padres
23 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Josh Johnson | 16 GS, 2-8, 6.20 ERA, 83 K, 81.1 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Joaquin Benoit | 66 G, 4-1, 24 SV, 2.01 ERA, 73 K, 67 IP | Free Agent |
| RP Alex Torres | 39 G, 4-2, 1.71 ERA, 62 K, 58 IP | Trade-TB |
| RF Seth Smith | .253/.329/.391, 8 HR, 40 RBI, 49 R | Trade-OAK |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Thanks to the emergence of young right-handers Andrew Cashner and Tyson Ross, as well as the deadline acquisition of Ian Kennedy, the San Diego Padres' rotation already figured to be significantly improved heading into next season.
Josh Johnson was also added on a one-year, $8 million deal after a disastrous season with the Toronto Blue Jays. If he can return to anywhere near the level he was at during his time with the Marlins, the rotation could be a legitimate strength.
Joaquin Benoit and Alex Torres were added to the bullpen to offset the loss of Luke Gregerson, who was shipped to the Oakland A's for outfielder Seth Smith. This is a team without a legitimate star but with enough talent from top to bottom to surprise some people in 2014.
Grade: B+
San Francisco Giants
24 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Tim Hudson | 21 GS, 8-7, 3.97 ERA, 95 K, 131.1 IP | Free Agent |
| SP Tim Lincecum | 32 GS, 10-14, 4.37 ERA, 193 K, 197.2 IP | Re-signed |
| RP Javier Lopez | 69 G, 4-2, 1.83 ERA, 37 K, 39.1 IP | Re-signed |
| SP Ryan Vogelsong | 19 GS, 4-6, 5.73 ERA, 67 K, 103.2 IP | Re-signed |
| LF Michael Morse | .215/.270/.381, 13 HR, 27 RBI, 34 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The San Francisco Giants main focus once again this offseason was retaining their own players, and it started with the five-year, $90 million deal they gave Hunter Pence in September. Following that, they also re-upped with Tim Lincecum, Ryan Vogelsong and Javier Lopez.
The big addition on the pitching side of things is veteran right-hander Tim Hudson, who saw his 2013 season end abruptly end when he broke his ankle covering first base. The 38-year-old was pitching well prior to the injury, but it remains to be seen how he'll respond.
The only other major pickup was slugger Michael Morse, who was signed to a one-year, $6 million deal after a rough year last year. He battled quad and wrist injuries for much of the season, though, and if he's healthy, a bounce-back season seems like a good possibility. That could mean 25 home runs and 75 RBI out of a left field spot that saw limited production last year.
Grade: C+
Seattle Mariners
25 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| 2B Robinson Cano | .314/.383/.516, 27 HR, 107 RBI, 81 R | Free Agent |
| RP Francisco Rodney | 68 G, 5-4, 37 SV, 3.38 ERA, 82 K, 66.2 IP | Free Agent |
| DH Corey Hart | *.270/.334/.507, 30 HR, 83 RBI, 91 R | Free Agent |
| LF Logan Morrison | .242/.333/.375, 6 HR, 36 RBI, 32 R | Trade-MIA |
| C John Buck | .219/.285/.362, 15 HR, 62 RBI, 39 R | Free Agent |
| IF Willie Bloomquist | .317/.360/.367, 0 HR, 14 RBI, 16 R | Free Agent |
*2012 Stats
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The Seattle Mariners pulled off the biggest move of the offseason, as they signed superstar second baseman Robinson Cano to a massive 10-year, $240 million deal prior to the winter meetings. That was far from the only move they've made this winter, though.
Corey Hart and Logan Morrison were added at the winter meetings to further bolster the lineup, while All-Star closer Fernando Rodney was signed to a two-year, $14 million deal at the beginning of February.
As it stands right now, the team looks like a dark horse to contend for a playoff spot in 2014. That said, the team could still make a run at Nelson Cruz or Ervin Santana before the offseason is over, and that would certainly push them closer to contender status.
Grade: A-
St. Louis Cardinals
26 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SS Jhonny Peralta | .303/.358/.457, 11 HR, 55 RBI, 50 R | Free Agent |
| CF Peter Bourjos | .274/.333/.377, 3 HR, 12 RBI, 26 R | Trade-LAA |
| 2B Mark Ellis | .270/.323/.351, 6 HR, 48 RBI, 46 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The St. Louis Cardinals' one glaring need entering the offseason was an upgrade at shortstop, as a group headed by rookie Pete Kozma hit a combined .222/.280/.303 with a position-low four home runs while manning the spot last season.
An upgrade was quickly found, as Jhonny Peralta was signed to a four-year, $53 million deal back in November. With that out of the way, there was not much else for the team to do this winter.
David Freese was traded to the Los Angeles Angels for speedy outfielder Peter Bourjos, and the latter will likely supplant Jon Jay as the primary center fielder. The move also allows the team to move Matt Carpenter to third base, opening up an everyday job for top prospect Kolten Wong at second base. Veteran Mark Ellis was also added as insurance should Wong struggle.
Grade: A
Tampa Bay Rays
27 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| 1B James Loney | .299/.348/.430, 13 HR, 75 RBI, 54 R | Re-signed |
| RP Grant Balfour | 65 G, 1-3, 38 SV, 2.59 ERA, 72 K, 62.2 IP | Free Agent |
| C Ryan Hanigan | .198/.306/.261, 2 HR, 21 RBI, 17 R | Trade-CIN |
| UT Logan Forsythe | .214/.281/.332, 6 HR, 19 RBI, 22 R | Trade-SD |
| C Jose Molina | .233/.290/.304, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 26 R | Re-signed |
| RP Heath Bell | 69 G, 5-2, 15 SV, 4.11 ERA, 72 K, 65.2 IP | Trade-ARI |
| RP Brad Boxberger | 18 G, 0-1, 2.86 ERA, 24 K, 22 IP | Trade-SD |
Multi-Year Extensions
LF David DeJesus (two-year, $10.5 million)
Offseason Overview
It's been another relatively quiet offseason of under-the-radar moves for the Tampa Bay Rays, though they did make a pair of big signings, at least by their standards.
James Loney was retained on a three-year, $21 million deal after he proved to be a nice bargain find last season, and closer Grant Balfour agreed to a two-year, $12 million deal to replace the departed Fernando Rodney in the ninth inning.
Veteran catcher Ryan Hanigan was acquired from the Cincinnati Reds in a three-team trade, and versatile utility player Logan Forsythe was picked up in a trade with the San Diego Padres. Perhaps the biggest wild card here is former All-Star closer Heath Bell, who is looking to get things back on track after a rough couple seasons. The Rays are good at resurrecting careers in their bullpen, so he could prove to be a good addition.
Grade: B
Texas Rangers
28 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| 1B Prince Fielder | .279/.362/.457, 25 HR, 106 RBI, 82 R | Trade-DET |
| LF Shin-Soo Choo | .285/.423/.462, 21 HR, 54 RBI, 107 R | Free Agent |
| C Geovany Soto | .245/.328/.466, 9 HR, 22 RBI, 20 R | Re-signed |
| SP Tommy Hanson | 13 GS, 4-3, 5.42 ERA, 56 K, 73 IP | Free Agent |
| C J.P. Arencibia | .194/.227/.365, 21 HR, 55 RBI, 45 R | Free Agent |
| OF Michael Choice | *.302/.390/.445, 14 HR, 89 RBI, 90 R | Trade-OAK |
*Triple-A stats
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
Any team adding Prince Fielder and Shin-Soo Choo to their lineup has had a successful offseason, as those two will join Adrian Beltre and Alex Rios to again give the Texas Rangers one of the most feared offensive attacks in all of baseball.
There is a hole at the back of the rotation after Derek Holland was lost for the first half of the season to a freak knee injury. Tommy Hanson and Colby Lewis are expected to fight it out for that spot, with Nicholas Tepesch and a few others in the mix as well.
Geovany Soto was re-signed to be the primary catcher, and he'll team with newly-acquired slugger J.P. Arencibia in an effort to replace veteran A.J. Pierzynski. Losing Ian Kinsler in the Fielder trade hurts, but it does open things up for Jurickson Profar to step into an everyday job at second base.
Grade: A
Toronto Blue Jays
29 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| C Dioner Navarro | .300/.365/.492, 13 HR, 34 RBI, 31 R | Free Agent |
Multi-Year Extensions
None
Offseason Overview
The Toronto Blue Jays were perhaps the biggest disappointment in all of baseball last season, given the lofty expectations they entered the year with. After their all-in approach last winter, many expected another busy offseason this winter, but they've instead been perhaps the quietest team in the league.
Dioner Navarro was signed to replace the non-tendered J.P. Arencibia behind the plate. The 30-year-old had a terrific season as the Chicago Cubs backup catcher last year, but he has not served as a team's primary backstop since 2009, when he was with the Tampa Bay Rays.
The biggest surprise is that the team has not added a starting pitcher, and it does not seem like they will, according to Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet.ca. Instead, they'll count on guys like Brandon Morrow and J.A. Happ to turn in healthy seasons after missing time in 2013.
Grade: D+
Washington Nationals
30 of 30
Key Offseason Additions
| SP Doug Fister | 32 GS, 14-9, 3.67 ERA, 159 K, 208.2 IP | Trade-DET |
| OF Nate McLouth | .258/.329/.399, 12 HR, 36 RBI, 76 R | Free Agent |
| RP Jerry Blevins | 67 G, 5-0, 3.15 ERA, 52 K, 60 IP | Trade-OAK |
| C Jose Lobaton | .249/.320/.394, 7 HR, 32 RBI, 38 R | Trade-TB |
Multi-Year Extensions
SP Jordan Zimmermann (two-year, $24 million)
SS Ian Desmond (two-year, $17.5 million)
Offseason Overview
No one has had a better offseason than the Washington Nationals. Other teams have added more, but given their needs and who they were able to acquire, the Nationals come away with the only "A+" grade of the winter.
The big pickup was Doug Fister, who was acquired from the Detroit Tigers for Steve Lombardozzi, Ian Krol and Robbie Ray—a steal that landed them one of the top-30 starters in the game today. He'll be slotted in the No. 4 spot in what could be the best rotation in all of baseball.
The team also added Nate McLouth, who will serve as the fourth outfielder but is capable of stepping into an expanded role should injury strike. Jerry Blevins was acquired in a trade with the Oakland A's, and he gives the bullpen the veteran left-hander they were lacking last year. Reasonable two-year extensions for Ian Desmond and Jordan Zimmermann were just the icing on the cake.
Grade: A+
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