Every team has its Achilles' heel, and the offseason is the perfect time for front offices to roll up their sleeves and get to work. With Spring Training just around the corner, let’s dive into the 10 most game-changing positional upgrades teams made this offseason through free agency or trades. But here’s where it gets controversial: not all of these moves will pay off immediately, and some might even spark debates among fans. Still, each team has taken a bold step to address their weaknesses. And this is the part most people miss—these upgrades could be the difference between a mediocre season and a championship run. Ready to see how your favorite team stacked up? Let’s get started.
1. Athletics: Second Base
What went wrong in 2025? The Athletics’ second base was a revolving door of underperformance. Zack Gelof’s injury-riddled season left him with just 30 games and a dismal .502 OPS. Luis Urías, Max Schuemann, and Max Muncy filled in, but their combined efforts resulted in a 53 wRC+—one of the worst marks in the league. Ouch.
How they fixed it: The A’s pulled off a savvy trade for former NL batting champion Jeff McNeil. While McNeil has been league-average over the past three seasons (102 wRC+), even that represents a massive leap for Oakland. But here’s the question: Can McNeil stay healthy and return to his peak form? Only time will tell.
2. Cubs: Third Base
What went wrong in 2025? The Cubs’ pursuit of Alex Bregman fell short, leaving them to rely on rookie Matt Shaw. Shaw struggled early, got sent back to the Minors, and finished with a .690 OPS over 126 games. Not terrible, but not what the Cubs needed.
How they fixed it: This offseason, Chicago finally landed Bregman with a jaw-dropping $175 million, five-year deal. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this too much money for a player who’s already in his prime? Fans are divided, but one thing’s for sure—Bregman’s bat will be a welcome addition to the lineup.
3. Dodgers: Closer
What went wrong in 2025? Despite winning the World Series, the Dodgers’ bullpen was a mess. Tanner Scott’s $72 million deal yielded a 4.74 ERA and 10 blown saves, while Kirby Yates flopped in his one-year stint. Michael Kopech and Evan Phillips were sidelined for most of the season.
How they fixed it: The Dodgers haven’t officially announced a new closer, but they’ve bolstered their bullpen depth. The real question: Will they rely on internal options or make another splashy move? Stay tuned.
4. Dodgers: Left Field
What went wrong in 2025? Michael Conforto’s $17 million deal produced a .637 OPS and -0.6 WAR over 138 games. He didn’t even play in the playoffs, with Kiké Hernández and Alex Call taking over.
How they fixed it: The Dodgers signed Kyle Tucker to a staggering four-year, $240 million contract. While Teoscar Hernández will replace Conforto directly, Tucker’s presence in right field effectively upgrades the entire outfield. But here’s the debate: Is Tucker worth that price tag? Fans are split, but his bat speaks for itself.
5. Mets: Center Field
What went wrong in 2025? Jose Siri’s fractured tibia limited him to 16 games, leaving Tyrone Taylor and Cedric Mullins to fill the void. Mullins struggled post-trade, and Mets center fielders combined for just seven home runs and a 71 wRC+.
How they fixed it: The Mets traded for Luis Robert Jr., assuming his $22 million salary in 2026. The gamble: Can Robert stay healthy and return to his 2023 All-Star form? If he does, this could be a steal. If not, it’s a costly risk.
6. Orioles: First Base
What went wrong in 2025? The Orioles’ first basemen ranked 22nd in the league with a 92 wRC+ and just 14 home runs. Ryan Mountcastle’s injuries and Coby Mayo’s .687 OPS didn’t help.
How they fixed it: The Orioles haven’t made a splashy move yet, but they’re reportedly exploring options. The question remains: Will they find a power-hitting first baseman before the season starts?
7. Pirates: Second Base
What went wrong in 2025? The Pirates’ second base produced just eight home runs and an 80 wRC+, part of a larger offensive struggle.
How they fixed it: They acquired Brandon Lowe in a three-team trade. Lowe’s injury history is concerning, but his 120 home runs over the past five years make him a high-reward addition. The debate: Can Lowe stay healthy and deliver consistent production?
8. Red Sox: First Base
How they fixed it: Boston acquired Willson Contreras, who posted a .791 OPS and 2.8 fWAR at first base last season. The twist: Contreras’s addition became even more crucial after Bregman signed with the Cubs. Can he carry the load?
9. Red Sox: Starting Rotation
What went wrong in 2025? Behind Garrett Crochet, Brayan Bello, and Lucas Giolito, the Red Sox’s rotation was a disaster. Walker Buehler’s signing backfired, and Tanner Houck’s 8.04 ERA didn’t help.
How they fixed it: Boston hasn’t made a major rotation addition yet, but they’re expected to pursue free agents. The question: Will they land a reliable starter, or will they rely on internal development?
10. White Sox: First Base
What went wrong in 2025? Andrew Vaughn’s .531 OPS led to his departure, and the White Sox finished with an 83 wRC+ and -0.5 fWAR at first base.
How they fixed it: Chicago hasn’t announced a replacement yet, but they’re actively searching. The challenge: Finding a first baseman who can provide both power and consistency.
Honorable Mentions: The Pirates’ designated hitter, Blue Jays’ starting rotation, and Royals’ left field also saw notable upgrades.
Final Thoughts: These moves could reshape the 2026 season, but here’s the big question: Which team made the smartest upgrade? And which move will backfire? Sound off in the comments—let’s hear your take!
