The 2025-26 MLB offseason has begun with substantial activity, as 22 of the top 50 free agents have already signed and our top trade candidate has been moved. With spring training just two months away, expect more player shifts in the coming weeks. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments as of Wednesday.
Giants Pursuing Hoerner
The Giants are targeting Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle. With Willy Adames secured at short and Matt Chapman at third, Hoerner stands out due to his elite defense and impressive hitting and baserunning capabilities. He fits well in spacious Oracle Park.
At 28, Hoerner is owed $12 million for 2026, marking his final year before free agency. He is a vital part of Chicago’s lineup and defense, alongside Dansby Swanson and Pete Crow-Armstrong. Though he is a core player, the Cubs may consider parting with him for a significant return.
Bichette Open to Moving to Second
Free agent Bo Bichette is now open to transitioning to second base, according to MLB.com. He played second in the World Series, his first attempt at the position in the majors, and performed admirably despite recovering from a knee injury.
Bichette, still just 27, has struggled defensively at shortstop in recent years, making second base his likely long-term fit. The World Series experience demonstrates his capability at the position. Any team that signs him will be looking primarily for his hitting, as his willingness to shift positions may expand his potential market.
In a busy day for two NL East rivals, the Mets have signed right-hander Luke Weaver while the Phillies have added fellow righty Brad Keller, according to the New York Post. Both pitchers secured two-year deals worth a total of $22 million. Weaver was named the 20th-best free agent this offseason, while Keller ranked 35th.
Weaver had a strong run with the Yankees over the past two years, although he did falter in the latter part of last season. The Mets hope this was merely a temporary setback.
Keller excelled in 2025 with the Cubs, marking his first year as a full-time reliever and his first healthy season in several years.
Mariners Pursuing Donovan and Marte
With Jorge Polanco departing via free agency, the Mariners are now seeking second base options and are eyeing Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte and Cardinals utility player Brendan Donovan, per The Athletic. Both players were All-Stars in 2025. Donovan’s recent experience in the outfield offers additional versatility, which Seattle may find valuable given their promising infield prospects, including Colt Emerson.
After advancing to Game 7 of the ALCS last season, the Mariners boast one of the league’s top rotations and have standout players like Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez in their primes. Their window for a World Series appears wide open, making a push for Marte—the best player available on the trade market—a sensible strategy. Acquiring him could substantially bolster their championship aspirations.
Rangers Seeking Rotation Assistance
The Rangers are currently on the lookout for a starting pitcher, as reported by DLLS Sports. Texas has a solid front-end duo in Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, complemented by Jack Leiter’s improved performance in the second half of last season. Kumar Rocker and Jacob Latz form the next tier of their rotation, prompting the need for an additional starter.
This offseason has been eventful for the Rangers, involving a swap of Marcus Semien for Brandon Nimmo, the re-signing of reliever Chris Martin, and the acquisition of depth players such as Tyler Alexander, Alexis Díaz, and Danny Jansen. Nonetheless, they require reinforcement in the back of their rotation. Even if Rocker achieves his long-awaited breakout, there remains room for enhancements within their starting staff.
Angels Sign Pomeranz and Romano
The Angels bolstered their bullpen late Tuesday night by signing left-hander Drew Pomeranz and righty Jordan Romano. Pomeranz’s deal is for one year and $4 million, while Romano signed for $2 million. They will join righty Robert Stephenson in manager Kurt Suzuki’s late-inning plans. Neither Pomeranz nor Romano was listed among the top 50 free agents.
Los Angeles finished 28th in bullpen ERA and 27th in bullpen WAR in 2025, despite having Kenley Jansen perform well as their closer. Pomeranz experienced a comeback season with the Cubs, while Romano embodies the Angels’ offseason strategy of targeting names looking to revitalized their careers. Other notable additions like Vaughn Grissom, Alek Manoah, and Grayson Rodriguez carry similar narratives to Romano’s.
