The Race For MLB Supremacy: Blue Jays, Giants, Cubs, And Angels' Post-Ohtani Plans

3 min read Post on Jun 11, 2025

The Race for MLB Supremacy: Blue Jays, Giants, Cubs, and Angels' Post-Ohtani Plans

The 2023 MLB season saw the rise of several contenders, each with their own unique strengths and strategies. But with the dust settling and the Shohei Ohtani saga concluding (for now, at least), the focus shifts to the offseason and the race for 2024 supremacy. Four teams – the Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Angels – stand out, each having charted distinct courses following Ohtani's departure to the Dodgers. Their post-Ohtani plans offer fascinating insights into different approaches to building a championship-caliber roster.

Toronto Blue Jays: Maintaining Momentum

The Blue Jays, consistently among the AL East’s top teams, enter the offseason with a strong core and a clear need for pitching depth. While their offense, spearheaded by stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, is formidable, bolstering the pitching staff will be paramount. Expect General Manager Ross Atkins to aggressively pursue starting pitching upgrades, potentially targeting free agents or exploring trade options. Their focus will be on maintaining the momentum built this season and solidifying their position as a serious World Series contender. The key to their success will be shrewd acquisitions that complement their existing talent without disrupting team chemistry.

San Francisco Giants: A Long-Term Vision

The Giants' approach is more long-term. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, consistency has been a challenge. Their post-Ohtani strategy centers on developing young talent and making strategic additions to their farm system. Expect them to prioritize pitching prospects and address defensive weaknesses. Unlike some teams focused on immediate gratification, the Giants are playing the long game, building a sustainable foundation for future success. This measured approach, however, might mean a slightly slower ascent to the top of the NL West. Their patience and commitment to player development could yield impressive results in the coming years.

Chicago Cubs: Building on a Resurgence

The Cubs surprised many with their improved performance in 2023. Their resurgence suggests a well-executed rebuild, and their post-Ohtani plans focus on solidifying their gains. They'll likely target players who fit their organizational culture and complement their young, exciting core. Adding veteran leadership and addressing any remaining gaps in their roster will be key. The Cubs' path to contention is less about flashy signings and more about smart acquisitions that contribute to a cohesive and competitive team. Their focus on a balanced approach across offense and defense will be crucial for continued improvement.

Los Angeles Angels: Life After Ohtani

For the Angels, the post-Ohtani era presents a significant challenge. Losing arguably the best player in baseball necessitates a major restructuring. Their immediate priority is to rebuild around Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon, leveraging their remaining star power to attract talent. However, this requires a significant shift in strategy, potentially involving significant roster turnover and a renewed focus on the farm system. The Angels' future hinges on their ability to navigate this critical transition effectively. Successfully navigating this period will depend on their ability to make swift, decisive changes and acquire players who can contribute significantly.

The Race Ahead

The race for MLB supremacy in 2024 and beyond is wide open. While the Dodgers are currently the favorites after acquiring Ohtani, the Blue Jays, Giants, Cubs, and Angels, each with their own distinctive strategies, are poised to challenge for the title. Their offseason moves will be crucial in determining which team emerges as a true contender. Only time will tell who successfully navigates the complexities of building a championship team. This upcoming offseason promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Stay tuned!