As the MLB offseason moves forward, teams are continuing to build their rosters with significant moves, with a number of big-name players already secured, while others remain on the market. With much of the initial flurry of free agent signings subsiding, teams are beginning to take stock of where their weaknesses lie, while actively targeting key players to improve their chances for success in the upcoming season.
Here’s a closer look at some of the notable moves and stories that have shaped the 2024-2025 MLB offseason so far:
Dodgers Stay Active with Gavin Lux Trade and Hyeseong Kim Signing
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been one of the most active teams in the offseason, continuing to make moves that shape their future. Their first significant move was trading second baseman Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for outfield prospect Mike Sirota and a competitive balance round A pick. This deal signals the Dodgers’ intention to reshape their infield for the upcoming season and perhaps beyond.
Lux, a former top prospect, struggled to find consistent success in Los Angeles, leading the Dodgers to move on and explore new opportunities for their roster. With the Reds, Lux will look to earn a more prominent role and prove that he can still be an impactful player. For the Dodgers, the deal brings them more flexibility and the possibility of bolstering their future with added draft picks.
In addition to the Lux trade, the Dodgers have also made a splash by signing South Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim to a three-year deal worth $12.5 million guaranteed, with options for the 2028 and 2029 seasons. Kim, 25, had spent the past six seasons with the KBO’s Kiwoom Heroes and comes highly regarded after his successful tenure in South Korea. He’s known for his strong bat and defensive ability, making him an intriguing addition to the Dodgers’ roster.
This move further strengthens the Dodgers’ infield depth and offers them versatility. Kim’s ability to play both second base and shortstop will give the team some much-needed flexibility as they build their roster for 2025 and beyond.
Corbin Burnes Signs Massive Deal with Diamondbacks
In one of the offseason’s most significant pitching moves, 2021 Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes has agreed to a six-year, $210 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks. This is the largest contract in Diamondbacks history and marks a clear signal of their intent to compete at a higher level in the National League. Burnes, who spent his career with the Milwaukee Brewers, was one of the top free agents on the market this winter.
The Diamondbacks’ acquisition of Burnes gives them a bona fide ace at the top of their rotation and makes them significantly more dangerous in the NL. Burnes is coming off another solid season, and despite some occasional inconsistency, he has been one of the top pitchers in baseball over the past few seasons. His ability to miss bats with a devastating slider and keep hitters off balance makes him a game-changer for Arizona.
Burnes’ signing also has draft pick implications, as his previous team, the Brewers, will receive draft compensation for his departure. While Arizona had to spend big to secure his services, the move could pay off quickly if Burnes helps propel them into contention for a postseason spot.
Gleyber Torres Heading to Detroit
One of the more surprising moves of the offseason is Gleyber Torres’ decision to sign a one-year, $15 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. Torres, a longtime member of the New York Yankees, was expected to receive a larger multi-year offer, but instead chose a short-term deal with Detroit, perhaps in hopes of rebuilding his value and hitting the free agent market again next year.
Torres, who is just 28 years old, has been a consistent presence for the Yankees, though his 2024 season wasn’t his best. Still, the second baseman hit 15 home runs, drove in 63 runs, and scored 80 runs in 154 games, showing that he still has a lot to offer offensively. His signing by Detroit adds a capable bat to their infield and gives the Tigers some stability at second base.
For Torres, this could be an opportunity for a fresh start in a new environment. A productive season in Detroit could put him in a strong position to land a more lucrative deal next offseason. If he returns to his former form and provides both power and consistency at the plate, he could help the Tigers improve their offense significantly.
First-Base Market Moves Quickly After Slow Start
The free agent first-base market was slow to start this offseason, but things have picked up dramatically in recent weeks, especially with a few big names making moves. One of the first dominoes to fall was Christian Walker, who signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the Houston Astros. Walker, who had been a key part of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ offense, brings a power bat and reliable defense to Houston’s already strong lineup.
In response to Walker’s departure, the Diamondbacks traded for Cleveland Guardians’ All-Star Josh Naylor. Naylor, who was having an impressive season with Cleveland, offers Arizona another solid bat and defensive option at first base.
Meanwhile, the Guardians weren’t done making moves. They responded to the loss of Naylor by bringing back Carlos Santana for his third stint with the team. Santana, who spent the 2024 season with the Minnesota Twins, provides a veteran presence in the clubhouse and offers a steady bat with good on-base skills.
The New York Yankees also made a move, securing former MVP Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year, $12.5 million deal. Goldschmidt, now in the latter stages of his career, still has the ability to contribute offensively and provides another experienced bat in the Yankees lineup. His defensive skills at first base will also help bolster New York’s infield.
Despite these moves, there are still plenty of big names available at first base, including Pete Alonso, who remains one of the most coveted free agents this offseason. Teams with a need at the position are expected to continue pursuing upgrades in the coming weeks, making the first-base market one of the more intriguing aspects of the offseason.
The MLB Offseason Continues to Evolve
As we approach the midpoint of the offseason, the MLB free agency market is far from complete, with a number of high-profile players still available. Teams are continuing to make moves to strengthen their rosters for the 2025 season, and while some of the biggest names are already off the board, the next few weeks promise to bring even more action as teams round out their lineups and pitching staffs.
Whether it’s a trade, a signing, or a big free agent deal, the MLB offseason is far from over, and the landscape is constantly shifting. Teams looking to contend next season are still evaluating their options and making key decisions to position themselves for success in the months ahead. For now, fans can sit back and enjoy the drama of one of the most exciting offseasons in recent memory.
