The Post-Ohtani MLB Offseason: A Look At The Blue Jays, Giants, Cubs, And Angels' Acquisition Plans

David

3 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

4.2

Share

The Post-Ohtani MLB Offseason: A Scramble for Stars in Toronto, San Francisco, Chicago, and Anaheim

The dust has settled on the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes, with the Los Angeles Angels securing the two-way superstar for another season. But the impact of his near-departure reverberates throughout Major League Baseball, leaving several teams scrambling to bolster their rosters in the post-Ohtani offseason. This year’s free agency market might be less flashy than last year's, but the implications are far-reaching, particularly for the Blue Jays, Giants, Cubs, and Angels themselves. Let's dive into the acquisition plans of these key contenders.

Toronto Blue Jays: A Focus on Pitching Depth

The Blue Jays, after a disappointing end to the 2023 season, are prioritizing pitching depth. While their offense is potent, featuring stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, inconsistencies in their pitching rotation proved costly. General Manager Ross Atkins has indicated a strong interest in bolstering the bullpen and adding a reliable starting pitcher. Expect the Blue Jays to target mid-tier free agents and potentially explore trade options to acquire established pitchers. Their focus is on consistency and reliability rather than flashy, high-priced acquisitions. This strategic approach reflects a team learning from past mistakes and emphasizing a balanced roster.

San Francisco Giants: A Youth Movement with Targeted Veterans

The Giants, under new leadership, are undergoing a significant rebuild. While they've shown flashes of brilliance, consistency has been lacking. Their approach this offseason leans towards a blend of youth development and targeted veteran acquisitions. They are unlikely to engage in a bidding war for top-tier free agents. Instead, they will focus on acquiring players who can mentor young talent while contributing at a high level. This approach prioritizes long-term sustainability over immediate short-term gains. Expect to see the Giants make shrewd moves in the trade market and target value free agents.

Chicago Cubs: Building on a Promising Season

The Cubs exceeded expectations in 2023, showcasing a young, exciting core. Their offseason strategy involves building upon this foundation. They'll likely target free agents who can fill specific positional needs and provide veteran leadership. The Cubs are strategically avoiding overspending on superstars, instead opting to cultivate their internal talent while judiciously adding experienced players to complement their young stars. This balanced approach reflects a commitment to sustainable success.

Los Angeles Angels: Supporting Shohei Ohtani (and a Potential Playoff Push)

The Angels' offseason is completely defined by retaining Ohtani. Their primary goal now is to build a team capable of competing for a playoff berth and supporting their prized asset. This likely involves significant investments in pitching and potentially bolstering the infield defense. Expect the Angels to be active in both free agency and the trade market, seeking players who can immediately contribute to a playoff push. Their approach is all-in on making 2024 a successful season and maximizing Ohtani's presence.

The Broader MLB Picture: A Shift in Strategy?

The post-Ohtani offseason highlights a broader shift in MLB strategy. While big-name signings still occur, several teams are emphasizing more sustainable, long-term approaches to roster building. This means focusing on strong farm systems, targeted acquisitions, and a balance between youth and experience. This new landscape adds excitement and intrigue to the offseason as teams pursue different paths to success.

What are your predictions for these teams' success in the upcoming season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!