MLB’s five best under-the-radar pickups from the 2025 offseason highlight strategic moves that could reshape team dynamics. This offseason will be etched in memory as the winter of Juan Soto, with the Mets triumphantly securing the most expensive player in baseball history, while the Dodgers made headlines with their lavish spending. Top-tier free-agent pitchers like Blake Snell, Corbin Burnes, and Max Fried found new homes, and the Astros made waves by trading Kyle Tucker, all while a promising pitching talent from Japan joined the ranks in Los Angeles.
However, beyond these headline-grabbing transactions, several under-the-radar signings and trades have the potential to make significant impacts, even if they didn’t steal the spotlight at the time.
To clarify “under-the-radar,” this analysis focuses on players who signed for less than the qualifying offer this year, excluding those who received substantial guaranteed contracts or were valued at 3.0 bWAR or higher last season. This means players like Walker Buehler, Nick Pivetta, and Ha-Seong Kim are not included. Instead, the focus shifts to the other 27 teams in MLB, steering clear of the attention typically garnered by the Dodgers, Mets, or Yankees.
Here are five noteworthy moves to keep an eye on.
4. OF/DH Randal Grichuk: re-signed with Diamondbacks for one year, $5 million (plus 2026 mutual option)
After Jurickson Profar signed elsewhere, the Diamondbacks capitalized by re-signing Grichuk for a reasonable $5 million. He will earn $2 million next season, with a $5 million mutual option for 2026 that includes a $3 million buyout and the chance to earn an additional $500,000 in incentives. This strategic move comes at a time when teams like the Royals could have benefited from his offensive capabilities, marking a significant win for the Diamondbacks, who previously surprised many by winning the Burnes sweepstakes.
Grichuk excelled in a part-time role last season after recovering from ankle surgery, effectively covering both corner outfield positions and partnering with Joc Pederson as a right-handed hitter in the designated hitter spot. His performance against left-handed pitchers was outstanding, resulting in the highest wRC+ and lowest strikeout rate of his career, showcasing his ability to hit 39% better than league average. With an impressive .875 OPS in 279 plate appearances, Grichuk’s contribution was invaluable, marking his best season since 2018.
While Grichuk may not match the value of the top outfield options, his addition is crucial for an Arizona team that lost key players like Christian Walker and Pederson from the league’s highest-scoring offense. His presence will help balance the outfield and potentially create a platoon at DH with left-handed hitter Pavin Smith.
Luzardo’s trade to the Phillies for two lower-level prospects has flown under the radar, possibly overshadowed by other significant moves. Luzardo, who pitched in the wild-card series in 2023, will not be a free agent until 2027 and is set to earn just over $6 million in 2025. Given the high prices for elite pitchers this offseason, Luzardo’s acquisition represents a smart, economical gamble for the Phillies.
2. 2B Gleyber Torres: signed with Tigers for one year, $15 million
Gleyber Torres’ signing with the Tigers for one year at $15 million is a strategic move for the team. This amount could secure a veteran pitcher over 36 or a 28-year-old two-time All-Star who recently played as the leadoff hitter for the American League champions. While Torres faced challenges in his contract year with the Yankees, hitting around league average and experiencing defensive mishaps, he still offers significant upside for the Tigers. If he can build on a strong second half, this deal may turn out to be a steal for Detroit.
1. SP Shane Bieber: re-signed with Guardians for two years, $26 million (with opt-out)
Shane Bieber’s re-signing with the Guardians for two years at $26 million comes as a surprise, especially after his impressive start to the 2024 season with 20 strikeouts in 12 scoreless innings. Despite concerns about his future following Tommy John surgery, the Guardians managed to secure him for a reasonable price. This deal could yield significant returns for Cleveland, who struggled with a 4.40 ERA last season. If Bieber can return to form, he may become a valuable asset, offering an impactful contribution as he approaches his 30th birthday.
As the offseason unfolds, these under-the-radar moves illustrate how teams are strategizing to enhance their rosters. With a focus on value and potential impact, these acquisitions may prove pivotal as the 2025 season progresses.
