The annual General Managers Meetings have concluded, with executives from all 30 MLB clubs departing the JW Marriott on Thursday to return home and dive into their offseason strategies.
While the week in Texas brought some noteworthy updates—including Gerrit Cole opting to remain with the Yankees, 13 qualifying offers being extended.
The Angels acquiring Kyle Hendricks, and news of Shohei Ohtani undergoing surgery to repair a torn labrum suffered during the World Series—most of the attention centered on the offseason’s marquee names.
Four Key Takeaways from the GM Meetings
The Trade Market is Heating Up
Although this year’s free-agent class boasts several high-profile players likely to secure nine-figure contracts, not every team has the resources to compete for such talent. For teams seeking alternatives, the trade market presents intriguing opportunities.
Those unable to pursue a Corbin Burnes-type may consider Garrett Crochet as a more attainable option.
Similarly, teams balking at Pete Alonso’s price tag for a first-base upgrade might explore acquiring Yandy Díaz or Josh Naylor instead.
“There’s going to be a lot of effort to make trades rather than relying on free agency,” one American League executive said.
“Teams seem more open to discussing players who were previously untouchable, which is encouraging.”
Players nearing free agency, particularly those with one or two years remaining, are prime trade candidates due to rising arbitration salaries.
An AL executive speculated that teams might even entertain trading controllable Major League players who have yet to reach arbitration, though such moves depend heavily on finding suitable trade partners.
“What will be more telling is if players in years 2-4 are being traded, as that could indicate the level of trade activity,” the executive said. “The challenge lies in matching what teams are willing to give up with what others need.”
Another AL executive expressed optimism for the trade market but acknowledged its unpredictability this early in the offseason.
“I enjoy exploring trades, so I hope there’s activity. It’s too soon to tell what might happen, but I’m ready to engage.”
Untouchable Players? Not Always
While the trade market could be lively, certain players remain firmly off-limits—at least for now. Athletics GM David Forst stated that Brent Rooker, who had an outstanding offensive season, is not available.
Similarly, Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins dismissed trade inquiries about Bo Bichette, emphasizing Toronto’s focus on contending before Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Chris Bassitt hit free agency next winter.
However, history shows that circumstances can shift quickly. Nationals president of baseball operations Mike Rizzo made similar assertions about Juan Soto in June 2022, only to trade him to the Padres a month later.
While Forst and Atkins appear genuine in their intentions, evolving needs and offers from other clubs could alter their stances, making every potential trade scenario fluid.
Versatility is a Hot Commodity
Position flexibility is becoming increasingly valuable. Alex Bregman, fresh off winning a Gold Glove at third base, and Willy Adames, who has excelled defensively at shortstop, have both expressed a willingness to shift positions if it benefits their free-agent prospects.
Bregman is open to playing second base, while Adames would consider second or third base.
“Both players are capable of adjusting,” said one NL executive. “Position versatility expands their options with interested teams, so why not make it known?”
Adames remains the top free-agent shortstop this offseason, making a position change unlikely, but his willingness could appeal to teams such as the Dodgers, Braves, Red Sox, and Giants. The Dodgers are widely viewed as the favorites to sign him.
Another Prolonged Free Agency?
Last offseason saw several high-profile Scott Boras clients, including Blake Snell, Matt Chapman, Cody Bellinger, and Jordan Montgomery, remain unsigned until late February or March.
This trend could repeat, as Boras represents four of the top free agents—Juan Soto, Corbin Burnes, Snell, and Alex Bregman—as well as other notable names like Pete Alonso, Ha-Seong Kim, Sean Manaea, Yusei Kikuchi, and Tyler O’Neill.
However, there’s speculation that some of Boras’ clients may opt for earlier signings this offseason. Pre-holiday deals wouldn’t be unprecedented, as Boras orchestrated major signings for Gerrit Cole, Stephen Strasburg, and Anthony Rendon during the 2019 Winter Meetings.
With markets already forming for Soto, Burnes, and Bregman, it’s possible some deals could close before December’s Winter Meetings in Dallas.
The anticipated bidding war between the Yankees and Mets for Soto, in particular, might accelerate his signing.
The offseason has officially begun, with executives preparing for a flurry of activity on both the trade and free-agent fronts. As always, the space remains fluid, with surprises likely to emerge as the winter progresses.
