As the 2026 Major League Baseball season approaches, analysts and fans alike are eager to evaluate how teams have shaped their rosters during the offseason. Bowden's comprehensive report card offers a detailed assessment of each team's moves, strengths, weaknesses, and prospects for the upcoming year.
Starting with the American League, several teams made significant acquisitions to bolster their lineups and pitching rotations. The New York Yankees, for instance, received high marks for their aggressive pursuit of top-tier free agents, aiming to reclaim their dominance after a challenging previous season. Their offseason strategy focused on strengthening both offense and bullpen depth, which Bowden rates as a solid B+.
Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox took a different approach, emphasizing youth development and strategic trades. Their focus on developing prospects and adding versatile players earned them a respectable B grade. The Tampa Bay Rays continued their innovative approach, leveraging analytics and small-market strategies, which Bowden praises as a smart and sustainable model.
In the American League Central, the Chicago White Sox made notable improvements, especially in their pitching staff, earning them a B-. The Cleveland Guardians, on the other hand, maintained their competitive core but lacked significant offseason moves, leading to a C+ grade.
Moving to the National League, the Atlanta Braves maintained their championship-caliber roster, adding key pieces to their already strong lineup, which Bowden rates as an A-. The Los Angeles Dodgers, always active in the offseason, made strategic adjustments that could pay dividends, earning a B+.
The San Diego Padres focused on bolstering their bullpen and adding veteran presence, which Bowden views as positive steps, resulting in a B grade. Conversely, the St. Louis Cardinals faced some criticism for their cautious approach, earning a C+.
Bowden also highlights emerging trends across the league, such as increased emphasis on analytics-driven signings and the importance of flexibility in roster management. Predictions for the 2026 season suggest that teams like the Braves, Yankees, and Dodgers are poised to contend strongly, while others will need to adapt quickly to stay competitive.
Overall, the 2026 offseason has set the stage for an exciting season, with teams making strategic moves to improve their chances. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these offseason grades translate into on-field success, as the league continues to evolve in the modern era of baseball.