The recent MLB winter meetings may have lacked the usual flurry of activity, but significant signings have already set the tone for the upcoming season. In a notable turn of events, Kyle Schwarber chose to stay with the Philadelphia Phillies, while Edwin Díaz made a move to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Adding to the excitement, power hitter Pete Alonso secured a lucrative five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles, following Schwarber’s decision. The stage is now set for potential signings by players like Alex Bregman, Cody Bellinger, and Kyle Tucker, as well as the anticipation of new deals for starting pitchers after Dylan Cease’s market-setting agreement. Additionally, fans are eager to see how international players making the transition to the MLB will impact their respective teams.
Let’s dive into the winners and losers of the winter meetings, highlighting both major and minor transactions, including the impactful acquisitions of Schwarber, Díaz, and Alonso.
Winner: Vaughn Grissom Finds Opportunity
While not grabbing headlines, the Los Angeles Angels’ acquisition of Vaughn Grissom could prove to be a game-changer. Once a highly-touted prospect for the Atlanta Braves, Grissom’s career took a downturn after a promising start in the big leagues. However, at just 24 years old and under team control until 2030, his recent strong performance in Triple-A showcases his potential impact. With versatility across the infield and a solid offensive output, Grissom has a chance to secure a starting role with the Angels, adding depth and talent to their roster.
Loser: Missed Chances for the Pirates and Reds
The Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates, known for their conservative spending habits, broke tradition by pursuing Kyle Schwarber in hopes of bolstering their lineups. Despite their efforts, both teams fell short in landing the slugger. The Pirates’ record-breaking offer of $120 million over four years and the Reds’ substantial bid of $125 million over five years highlighted their willingness to invest in talent. However, the outcome emphasizes the challenges faced by teams with financial constraints in the competitive landscape of MLB free agency.
As the dust settles on the 2025 MLB winter meetings, the stage is set for a season filled with anticipation and intrigue. The impact of key signings and the repercussions of missed opportunities will undoubtedly shape the dynamics of teams and players in the upcoming year.
Philadelphia Phillies v Atlanta BravesMLB: AUG 22 Mets at BravesWild Card Series – Detroit Tigers v Cleveland Guardians – Game One
