The 2026 MLB season is here, after a preseason marked by chaos! Teams moved aggressively to reinforce their rosters. The New York Mets, after a disappointing end to the season, began a renovation that extended throughout the winter. The Toronto Blue Jays, after their participation in the 2025 World Series, added an ace to their rotation. The Baltimore Orioles incorporated a power hitter to strengthen their lineup, and the Chicago Cubs finally finalized the signing of the free agent that their fans longed for. However, it was the two-time defending champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, who shook the baseball world by signing the number one free agent of the preseason to a record contract. From Pete Alonso’s departure from the Mets to the American League East, to the Dodgers’ big spending to add to their already powerful lineup, the preseason was full of surprises. We analyze the key moves that impacted the season.
The Mets Begin Restructuring with Veteran Trade
Photo: AP Photo/Jeff Roberson
Date of agreement: November 23 – The Mets trade Nimmo to the Rangers for Semien.Meaning for the team: The Mets, after not qualifying for the postseason, initiated changes. The president of baseball operations, David Stearns, decided to revamp the team. The trade of Brandon Nimmo was surprising, indicating a major restructuring. Stearns prioritized financial flexibility and strengthening the defense, finalizing a trade with the Texas Rangers.Impact on the 2026 season: Semien, at 35, seeks to recover from a low offensive season. Although his contract is shorter and he is a gold glove, the Mets need Semien to contribute in defense and in the clubhouse, more than in offense, where they have Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor.
The Red Sox Join the Early Action
Photo: Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images
Agreement Date: November 25 – The Red Sox acquire Sonny Gray from the Cardinals.Meaning for the Red Sox: After a mediocre rotation in 2025, the Red Sox needed stability. They acquired Sonny Gray and other players, improving their rotation and infield.Impact on the 2026 season: With an improved rotation, led by Crochet and with Gray and Suárez, the Red Sox aim to compete against the Blue Jays and the Yankees. If Roman Anthony becomes a star, they could be a team to watch.The American League champions add an ace to their rotation
Photo: AP Photo/John Raoux
Date of agreement: November 26 – The Blue Jays sign Cease for $210 million.Meaning for the team: The Blue Jays, after losing the World Series, focused on strengthening their rotation. The signing of Dylan Cease was a key move, surpassing other pitcher contracts.Impact on the 2026 season: If Cease maintains his performance, the Blue Jays could have a great year. They need his best version to compete in the postseason. Rotation depth is key for the team.The Dodgers, world champions, take the Mets’ star closer
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Date of the agreement: December 9 – Díaz signs for three years with the Dodgers.Meaning for the Dodgers: The Dodgers’ management, which previously avoided expensive contracts for relievers, changed its strategy. After Scott’s arrival, the need for Díaz became evident.Impact on the 2026 season: The Dodgers, with Díaz, reinforce their biggest weakness and seem invincible. Díaz, one of the best closers, is key to their aspirations.Schwarber returns to Philadelphia
Photo: AP Photo/Matt Slocum
Date of the agreement: December 9 – The Phillies bring back Schwarber with a $150 million contract.Meaning for the team: Schwarber’s return was key for the Phillies. His power is essential for the team. His performance against left-handed pitchers elevated Philadelphia’s offense.Impact on the 2026 season: With Schwarber, the power in the NL East remains in Philadelphia. His presence ensures dominance in the division.The Orioles Sign Alonso and Frustrate Mets Fans
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Date of agreement: December 10 – The Orioles sign Alonso for $155 million.Meaning for the team: The Orioles reinforce their lineup with power. Alonso brings power and could surpass 40 home runs.Impact on the 2026 season: Alonso could give the Orioles a new identity and help the team’s young talents.Are the Pirates in this timeline?
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Date of the agreement: December 19 – The Pirates acquire Lowe in a three-way trade.
Meaning for the team: The arrival of Brandon Lowe and other players indicates that the Pirates are looking to improve their offense, taking advantage of their solid starting rotation.Impact on the 2026 season: If the Pirates are successful in the season, this trade could be the turning point. They continued to add more offensive players, which could give opportunities to young prospects.Japanese Free Agents Land in Surprising Places
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Dates of the agreements: December 21 – White Sox sign Murakami; January 1 – Astros sign Imai; January 4 – Blue Jays sign Okamoto.Meaning for the teams: Murakami, with a two-year contract with the White Sox, could be a key hitter. Imai, with the Astros, adds depth to the rotation. Okamoto, with the Blue Jays, strengthens the defense and could replace Bichette.Impact on the 2026 season: Murakami could be a very interesting player. The Astros could have a solid rotation with Imai and Javier. Okamoto will be key for the Blue Jays.The Cubs get their star free agent
Photo: AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin
Date of agreement: January 10 – Bregman joins the Cubs with a $175 million contract.Meaning for the team: The Cubs needed an offensive replacement and Bregman fits. His leadership will be useful on the team.Impact on the 2026 season: The Cubs seek success in the NL Central. The arrival of Bregman could boost them, although the Brewers are the favorites. The Dodgers dominate the preseason…
