MLB Offseason Updates: Key Trades and Free Agency Moves

The MLB offseason is heating up as teams engage in significant trades and free agency moves. The Baltimore Orioles made headlines by acquiring first baseman Pete Alonso from the New York Mets for a five-year, $155 million deal.

Following this acquisition, the Orioles also traded for pitcher Shane Baz, sending a package of prospects, including outfielder Slater du Brun, to the Tampa Bay Rays. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres re-signed right-handed pitcher Michael King to a three-year, $75 million contract, which includes opt-outs after the first two seasons.

King has been a solid contributor for the Padres since joining the team as part of the Juan Soto trade with the Yankees in December 2022. The Padres are also adding Korean infielder Sung-Mun Song, who had an impressive season in Korea, hitting .315 with 26 homers and 25 stolen bases.

Other notable moves in the offseason include the Chicago Cubs signing Kyle Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million deal, and the Toronto Blue Jays securing Dylan Cease for seven years at $210 million, a deal exceeding initial market expectations.

The offseason is still unfolding, with many teams looking to bolster their rosters ahead of the 2026 season, particularly in pitching, as evidenced by the Orioles' and Padres' strategic acquisitions. As the market continues to develop, teams like the Boston Red Sox are still looking for key additions to their roster, having yet to make a notable signing this offseason.