Read on foxsports.com2026 MLB Offseason Tracker: Key Signings, Trades, and Extensions
The 2026 MLB offseason is already shaping the competitive landscape for the upcoming season. This tracker provides a comprehensive overview of all major free agent signings, trades, and contract extensions, including the Phillies securing Kyle Schwarber on a massive deal, the Dodgers adding star closer Edwin Díaz, and blockbuster trades involving teams like the Mets, Rangers, Blue Jays, and Red Sox. Stay updated on the moves that will define the 2026 campaign.
The Hot Stove is already burning for the 2026 Major League Baseball season. While the winter meetings may still be on the horizon, teams have been active in reshaping their rosters through free agency, trades, and extensions. This tracker consolidates all the notable moves reported in the early offseason, providing a clear picture of the shifting power dynamics and strategic gambits across the league. From record-breaking contracts to savvy swaps, here is your essential guide to the transactions defining the path to Opening Day.
Major Free Agent Signings and Re-Signings
The free agent market has seen significant activity, with several cornerstone players securing their futures. The most headline-grabbing deal so far is the Philadelphia Phillies' commitment to slugger Kyle Schwarber. The club re-signed the designated hitter to a five-year contract worth $150 million, a clear signal of their intent to maintain one of baseball's most potent lineups. In the bullpen, the Los Angeles Dodgers made a major splash by signing elite closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million pact, instantly bolstering their late-inning arsenal.
Other notable pitching signings include the Detroit Tigers bringing back reliever Kyle Finnegan on a two-year, $19 million deal, and the New York Mets securing reliever Devin Williams with a three-year, $45 million contract. The Toronto Blue Jays made a massive rotation investment, signing ace Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million contract. Position players also found new homes, with the Tampa Bay Rays adding outfielder Cedric Mullins on a one-year deal.
Notable Trades Reshaping Rosters
The trade market has been equally bustling, with several impactful swaps altering team compositions. A significant deal saw the New York Mets acquire star infielder Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers, who in return received outfielder Brandon Nimmo. This exchange of established veterans addresses needs for both clubs.
The Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Angels executed a deal, with the Angels acquiring infielder Vaughn Grissom in exchange for outfielder Isaiah Jackson. In another infield swap, the Atlanta Braves traded for Houston's Mauricio Dubón, sending infielder Nick Allen to the Astros. The Baltimore Orioles bolstered their outfield by acquiring Taylor Ward from the Angels, parting with pitcher Grayson Rodriguez.
Pitching was also a focus, with the Seattle Mariners and Washington Nationals exchanging left-hander Jose A. Ferrer for catcher Harry Ford and right-hander Isaac Lyon. The Los Angeles Dodgers and Mariners swapped minor league pitchers, with Robinson Ortiz heading to Seattle and Tyler Gough going to LA.
Key Contract Extensions and Qualifying Offers
Beyond free agency, teams have moved to lock down their own talent. The Cincinnati Reds re-signed reliever Emilio Pagán to a two-year, $20 million contract, while the Dodgers retained catcher Miguel Rojas on a one-year, $5.5 million deal. The Atlanta Braves ensured their bullpen stability by re-signing closer Raisel Iglesias to a one-year, $16 million contract.
The qualifying offer system also played a role, with four players accepting the one-year, $22.025 million deal for the 2026 season: New York Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham, Chicago Cubs left-hander Shota Imanaga, Detroit Tigers infielder Gleyber Torres, and Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Brandon Woodruff. Their decisions provide short-term certainty for both the players and their clubs.
Conclusion: An Active Offseason Underway
The 2026 MLB offseason is proving to be a period of substantial movement and strategic investment. Major contracts for stars like Kyle Schwarber and Dylan Cease set the financial tone, while impactful trades involving players like Marcus Semien and Taylor Ward immediately alter team trajectories. As front offices continue to negotiate and the winter meetings approach, this tracker will remain an essential resource for understanding the evolving landscape. The moves made in these early weeks lay the foundational groundwork for the championship aspirations and divisional battles that will define the 2026 season.
