Who could make a splash this MLB offseason? Passan's...

Who could make a splash this MLB offseason? Passan’s perfect moves for 17 teams that could go big

Offseason Context

The 2023 MLB season concluded with the Texas Rangers hoisting the Commissioner’s Trophy, but attention now swiftly shifts to a pivotal offseason. ESPN’s Jeff Passan has identified 17 teams positioned to make significant moves, highlighting a blend of contenders needing reinforcements and rebuilding clubs seeking foundational pieces. This winter promises substantial shifts across the league, driven by a robust free-agent class and teams with varying levels of payroll flexibility.

Several franchises aim to close the gap on division leaders or solidify their playoff aspirations. The market is ripe with impact talent, and Passan’s analysis points to strategic acquisitions as critical for 2024 success.

Key Stats & Facts

Passan’s projection hinges on team needs, available payroll, and competitive windows. Key data points underscore the urgency for potential big spenders:

Top-Tier Free Agents: A loaded class features generational talent like Shohei Ohtani (P/DH), ace pitchers such as Blake Snell (LHP) and Aaron Nola (RHP), and premier bats including Cody Bellinger (CF/1B) and Matt Chapman (3B).
Payroll Flexibility: At least 8-10 teams are projected with over $75M in effective payroll space for significant additions, including the Dodgers, Cubs, Yankees, and Giants.
Positional Gaps:
- Starting Pitching: A universal need, with over 20 teams seeking at least one front-line starter.
- Impact Bat: Roughly 15 teams are prioritizing a middle-of-the-order power bat (25+ HR, .800+ OPS).
- Bullpen Reinforcement: A constant demand, with top relievers expected to command multi-year deals.
High-Stakes Examples (Passan’s “Perfect Moves”):
- Los Angeles Dodgers: Predicted to pursue Ohtani ($500M+ deal) and potentially an ace like Snell to solidify their rotation.
- Chicago Cubs: Targeted for a major offensive addition like Bellinger ($200M+ extension) or Juan Soto via trade to complement their young core.
- New York Yankees: Identified as needing an impact bat and potentially a mid-rotation starter, with names like Chapman or even a trade for a premium outfielder.

Player Spotlight

This offseason’s market is defined by several potential game-changers whose landing spots will significantly alter the league landscape.

Shohei Ohtani (P/DH): The undisputed top prize. Despite elbow surgery, his two-way talent makes him a transcendent force. A club signing Ohtani immediately boosts both their rotation (in 2025) and their lineup.
Blake Snell (LHP): Coming off a dominant Cy Young season (2.25 ERA, 234 K in 180.0 IP), Snell offers front-of-the-rotation quality. His acquisition could instantly elevate a team’s pitching staff into elite territory.
Cody Bellinger (CF/1B): After a bounce-back year with the Cubs (.307 AVG, 26 HR, 97 RBI), Bellinger re-established his value as a potent left-handed bat and Gold Glove-caliber defender. He is a prime target for teams needing offensive consistency and defensive versatility.

Standings Impact

Passan’s “perfect moves” for these 17 teams could profoundly reshape the 2024 playoff picture and division races.

Elevating Contenders: Teams like the Dodgers and Yankees, by securing an Ohtani or another marquee free agent, could cement their status as World Series favorites. Their projected win totals could increase by 5-10 games.
Closing the Gap: A strong offseason for the Cubs (Bellinger re-sign, Soto trade) or Giants (Ohtani pursuit) could immediately thrust them into the NL Central and NL West division title conversations, respectively. Their playoff odds would see a substantial jump (e.g., from 40% to 65%+).
Rebuilding Acceleration: Even teams in earlier stages of contention, by making strategic, high-impact signings (e.g., a young ace or power bat), could significantly accelerate their rebuild timelines. This could mean competing for a Wild Card spot a year earlier than anticipated, potentially boosting future revenue and fan engagement.