Bold Predictions for the 2025-2026 Baseball Offseason: Trades, Free Agent Signings, and SurprisesThis episode explores nine potential moves that could reshape Major League Baseball, including the Mets trading for Tarik Skubal, the Dodgers landing Kyle Tucker, Pete Alonso joining the Reds, and Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander switching teams. The Giants, Blue Jays, Orioles, and Marlins are also expected to make significant moves in the pitching and offensive markets.

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The Chicago Cubs have bolstered their bullpen by signing veteran pitcher Phil Maton to a two-year contract, pending a physical. Maton, 32, had a solid 2023 season with the Cardinals and Rangers, posting a 2.79 ERA and 4-5 record. Hes the first significant free agent to join the Cubs this off-season, potentially replacing departing relievers. Maton, drafted by the Padres in 2015, has a 23-20 record and 3.98 ERA in 478 MLB games. This move indicates the Cubs commitment to remaining competitive.

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The San Diego Padres are set to sign outfielder Carlos Rodriguez to a minor league contract, inviting him to Major League Baseball Spring Training. Rodriguez, a former top prospect for the Atlanta Braves, has shown potential with his power hitting and speed. Despite underwhelming performance in Triple-A, he hit a career-high eight home runs and stole seventeen bases. Originally signed by the Milwaukee Brewers, Rodriguez has consistently improved throughout his career. This new opportunity with the Padres offers him a chance to compete for a spot on the big-league roster.

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Zac Gallen, a key Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher, turned down a $22M offer, expressing desire to stay but considering personal factors. His late-season improvement and teams reduced payroll complicate a potential reunion.

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The Colorado Rockies have signed outfielder Drew Avans to a minor league contract, adding depth to their organization. Avans, who made his MLB debut with the Athletics last season, has a history of stealing bases and could be a valuable asset for the Rockies. Despite a recent increase in strikeouts, his speed and performance in Triple-A make him an attractive addition to the team.

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The New York Yankees have signed left-handed pitcher Ryan Yarbrough to a one-year, $2.5 million contract, with potential performance bonuses. Yarbrough, known for his side-arm delivery, could provide depth to the rotation, especially with key pitchers recovering from surgery. He has experience with several teams and posted a 3-1 record with a 4.36 ERA last season, striking out 55 batters in 64 innings. However, he missed a significant portion of the season due to injury.

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The Oakland Athletics have secured their pitching staff for the upcoming season, avoiding arbitration with Luis Medina and Ken Waldichuk. Medina, a right-hander, and Waldichuk, a left-hander, both agreed to one-year contracts, with Medina earning $835,000 and Waldichuk $825,000. The team also released outfielder J.J. Bleday, who had a batting average of .212 with 14 home runs and 39 RBIs this year. Both Medina and Waldichuk are recovering from Tommy John surgeries and will be key players in the As next season.

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The Tampa Bay Rays made roster moves, non-tendering outfielders Christopher Morel and Jake Fraley, who are now free agents. Morel is likely to sign with another team, while the Rays express interest in potentially bringing back Fraley. The team avoided arbitration with reliever Cole Sulser and tendered contracts to all other players, including twelve eligible for arbitration. The Rays will continue conversations with Fraley, who was recently claimed off waivers, while Morels performance didnt meet expectations after being traded from the Cubs.

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Former All-Star Brady Anderson joins Angels as hitting coach, bringing extensive experience to revamp offense. John Mabry, a veteran coach, joins as assistant. Both aim to improve struggling Angels offense, which finished 25th in scoring last season.

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Brady Anderson, a former All-Star and Orioles legend, joins the Angels as their new hitting coach, alongside experienced coach John Mabry. This dynamic duo aims to revamp the Angels struggling offense, which ranked last in scoring and batting average last season. The Angels are making significant changes, including Kurt Suzukis first season as manager, to turn their fortunes around.

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