With the Winter Meetings in the rearview mirror, Major League Baseball’s offseason is shifting into high gear. The rumor mill is buzzing, and contenders across the league are jockeying to upgrade their rosters ahead of the 2026 season.
From big-name free agents to potential blockbuster trades, front offices are clearly feeling the urgency - and the next few weeks could get wild. Here’s where things stand around the league.
Red Sox Staying Aggressive
The Boston Red Sox aren’t easing off the gas this winter. After a 2025 season that ended in a postseason appearance but exposed some key roster holes, Boston is making it clear they’re not content to stand pat. They’ve already added two arms to their rotation in Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo, but by all accounts, they’re far from done.
According to reports, the Red Sox are casting a wide net. They’ve been linked to free agents Michael King, Alex Bregman, and Bo Bichette - a trio that would significantly raise the floor (and ceiling) of any roster.
But Boston’s not limiting themselves to just free agency. They’re also exploring the trade market, with Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte and Cardinals utilityman Brendan Donovan both on their radar.
What’s driving all this activity? A clear-eyed understanding of their roster.
The Sox have a strong young core of position players, but they lacked consistent pitching and needed a veteran presence in the lineup. Boston’s front office seems willing to spend to address those needs - and if they land even one of their targets, it could dramatically shift the AL landscape.
Luke Weaver: A Tale of Two Seasons
Luke Weaver’s 2025 season was a rollercoaster - and yet, his market remains hot. After a stellar 2024 campaign (2.89 ERA, 0.93 WHIP over 84 innings), the right-hander came out firing in 2025.
Through his first 28 appearances, Weaver posted a 1.53 ERA in 29 1/3 innings, with 29 strikeouts, just eight walks, and eight saves in nine chances. He also added seven holds, proving his value in high-leverage situations.
But then came September - and things unraveled quickly. In 12 appearances that month, Weaver’s ERA ballooned to 9.64 over 9 1/3 innings.
His postseason struggles were even more dramatic: three appearances, one out recorded, and a staggering 135.00 ERA. Yes, you read that right.
Despite that brutal finish, Weaver’s overall body of work - and his versatility - still make him an attractive option. He has 106 career starts, which gives teams flexibility to use him either in the bullpen or as a spot starter.
The Yankees are reportedly still interested in bringing him back, but they’re not alone. Around 10 teams have checked in on the 32-year-old, and with the relief market moving quickly, his decision could come soon.
Freddy Peralta Drawing Serious Trade Interest
Few pitchers boosted their value in 2025 like Freddy Peralta. The Brewers’ right-hander put together the best season of his career: 17-6 record, 2.70 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 204 strikeouts in 176 2/3 innings. He was the ace Milwaukee needed, and he delivered for a team that finished with the top seed in the National League.
Now, with Peralta entering his final year before free agency, the Brewers are listening. He’s set to make $8 million in 2026 - a bargain for a front-line starter - and that affordability is making him one of the most sought-after arms on the trade market.
Unless the Tigers decide to make Tarik Skubal available, Peralta might be the biggest pitching prize of the offseason. The Red Sox, Yankees, Giants, Orioles, and Astros have all reportedly expressed interest. For a team looking for a controllable ace without shelling out $30+ million per year, Peralta checks every box.
Padres Could Flip Nick Pivetta
Nick Pivetta bet on himself last offseason - and he cashed in. After waiting until February to sign, the right-hander landed a four-year, $55 million deal with the Padres. That deal already looks like a bargain.
In 2025, Pivetta posted a 13-5 record with a 2.87 ERA, a 0.99 WHIP, and 190 strikeouts in 181 2/3 innings. He made 31 starts and finished sixth in the National League Cy Young voting. Not bad for a guy making $2.5 million this past season.
That number jumps to $20.5 million in 2026, and Pivetta holds an opt-out after the season - which puts the Padres in a tricky spot. They’re thin on starting pitching, but Pivetta’s value might never be higher. A trade now could net them a significant return, especially with so many teams desperate for reliable rotation help.
The Mets have been floated as a potential suitor, but Pivetta’s market should be broad. He’s a proven innings-eater coming off a career year, and his contract - even with the opt-out - is a relative steal compared to what top-tier starters are commanding in free agency.
Bottom Line: The stove is hot, and front offices aren’t waiting around. Whether it’s the Red Sox making a splash, the Yankees trying to bring back a familiar face, or the Brewers weighing their options with Peralta, the next few weeks could reshape the 2026 season before a single pitch is thrown. Stay tuned - this offseason is just getting started.