The MLB 2025-26 offseason kicks off! Here at Alofoke Deportes, we keep you updated with analysis and ratings of every major move in this winter market. Whether it’s a millionaire signing that changes the course of your team or a high-impact trade, we’ll give you our opinion on what it means for next season and beyond. Stay tuned for constant updates to get the latest analysis.
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Orioles bolster with Helsley
The Orioles add reliever Helsley on a two-year contract.The agreement: 2 years, $28 million, player option after the 2026 season.Rating: C+
Faced with the loss of Felix Bautista, Baltimore needed a reliever to close games. Helsley, who had performed well in that role for the Cardinals, arrives after a brief stint with the Mets. Helsley has been one of the best relievers in the last three years. His fastball and slider combination has been effective. The contract gives him the opportunity to prove that his performance with the Mets was an isolated case.
For the Orioles, Helsley assumes the primary closer role. The contract carries risks if Helsley doesn’t perform. At his best, Helsley has been a high-level reliever. The Orioles trust that his time with the Mets was a misstep, not his new reality.Blue Jays Make a Big Move with Cease
The Blue Jays make a big pitching move with the signing of Cease.The agreement: 7 years, $210 million.Rating: B
MLB free agency is a game of strategy. In the case of Dylan Cease, signing early makes sense. He possesses clear skills, but also inconsistencies that could affect his value. The $210 million contract the Blue Jays gave Cease is on the higher end, according to projections.Positive aspects:
- Release Quality: “Stuff+” metrics rate Cease’s pitches as among the best in the majors, including a fastball that averages 97 mph.
- Durability: Cease has a streak of five consecutive seasons with at least 32 starts.
- Age: He is entering his age-30 season, still in his prime years.
Negative aspects:
- His effectiveness has fluctuated in the last four seasons, showing inconsistencies.
- His lack of efficiency leads to too many walks and short outings.
Red Sox bolster rotation with a trade
The Red Sox acquire Sonny Gray in a trade with St. Louis.The Red Sox receive:
- RHP Sonny Gray
- $20 million in cash
Cardinals receive:
- LHP Brandon Clarke
- RHP Richard Fitts
Red Sox Grade: B+
The Red Sox were looking for a veteran starter to replace Giolito. Gray, 36 years old, is coming off two seasons with 200 strikeouts and led the National League in strikeout rate and walks. The deal for Gray is for one year and $41 million, with the Cardinals paying a portion. Gray performs excellently when he gets to two strikes. His sweeper is his strikeout pitch. His problems arise with his fastballs, which has led to a high batting average and slugging percentage against him. The Red Sox could adjust his pitch mix. Gray fills a big void without the Red Sox signing a long-term contract.Cardinals Rating: C The Cardinals appear to be rebuilding. Fitts could have the opportunity to be part of the rotation. Clarke, a lefty with good velocity, was selected in 2024. The Cardinals have made their rebuilding intentions clear.Trade between Rangers and Mets
The Rangers and the Mets trade veterans.Mets receive:
- 2B Marcus Semien
Rangers receive:
- OF Brandon Nimmo
Rangers Rating: C+
Nimmo is a better hitter than Semien and an upgrade in the outfield for Texas. Nimmo is a better hitter by average than Semien and has better plate discipline. Nimmo’s contract is a long-term problem. The Rangers hope that the change of scenery will boost Nimmo’s numbers.Orioles Trade Former Prospect for Angels Power Hitter
The Orioles acquire Taylor Ward from the Angels in exchange for Grayson Rodriguez.Orioles receive:
- LF Taylor Ward
Angels receive:
- RHP Grayson Rodriguez
Orioles Grade: D
Ward, who will turn 32, is a decent player, averaging 3.0 bWAR in the last four years. Ward is someone who is acquired for his bat. Ward, who bats right-handed, generates power to the opposite field, but his power game is likely to be negatively affected by the move to Camden Yards. Ward doesn’t generate enough fear in pitchers.Angels Rating: A- This trade focuses on the Angels’ potential, as they need a number one starter. Rodriguez has a high ceiling and controllable seasons. The possibility of Rodriguez fulfilling that potential is exciting for Anaheim fans. The deal opens a gap in the outfield for the Angels, who will need to find a replacement.
