Three losers of the 2025-26 MLB offseason

As spring training rapidly approaches, teams generally have a sense of their rosters. While some players have yet to sign and other transactions can happen, most rosters are essentially set.

Every offseason is different for each team, yet the overall goal of winning a World Series remains. Some teams have taken strides to improve their chances, while other teams rebuild or have significant holes on the roster. Let's take a look at three teams that have not done enough this offseason.

Three biggest losers of the 2025-26 offseason

1. New York Yankees

The Yankees were able to re-sign outfielder Cody Bellinger, but that was a move they had to make. Their other moves involved keeping the rest of the core together, with a trade for pitcher Ryan Weathers the only significant external addition. Meanwhile, relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver, a pair of key late-inning options, left in free agency.

In a division where each team has arguably improved, the Yankees have essentially stood pat. That may not be enough, especially as starters Carlos Rodon and Gerrit Cole will miss part of the start of the season and Clarke Schmidt is out for the year. The Yankees have little margin for error and have not done enough to improve their roster.

2. Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies also brought back a pair of their own free agents who were vital to their success. J.T. Realmuto was clearly the top catcher available in free agency, and with the Phillies lacking a replacement, his return was a necessity. The same can be said for outfielder/designated hitter Kyle Schwarber - the Phillies needed his powerful bat in the lineup to contend.

Aside from bringing Realmuto and Schwarber back, the Phillies' two biggest additions have been outfielder Adolis Garcia and pitcher Brad Keller. Losing pitcher Ranger Suarez is a significant blow to the rotation, while having infielder Bo Bichette stolen at the last minute by the Mets hurts twice. Outfielder Nick Castellanos is also still on the roster, something that needs to be rectified soon. 

3. San Francisco Giants

The Giants faced an uphill battle to return to relevance in the NL West. That was going to be the case regardless, especially given the Dodgers' willingness to spend at unprecedented levels to build a roster of stars. The Diamondbacks improved this offseason and the Padres still have plenty of talent.

The Giants, meanwhile, have done almost nothing. While they were linked to several free agents, most notably outfielder Cody Bellinger, those pursuits failed to produce results. Adrian Houser is a solid back-of-the-rotation option, but that is not nearly enough for a team that needs to improve the lineup, especially at second and in right field.