The three biggest free-agent needs for the Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Washington Nationals, and Miami Marlins are evident as MLB’s winter meetings approach. Each team must address specific gaps in their rosters to enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
The spotlight is on the National League East as these teams strategize for the offseason.
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
1. Outfield: The Phillies’ outfield performance ranked 18th in MLB last season, with a below-average 97 wRC+. While they may retain Nick Castellanos, Brandon Marsh and Johan Rojas have not solidified their starting positions. The emergence of top prospect Justin Crawford could change the dynamics, potentially allowing him to claim the center field spot by Opening Day. Exploring trades for players like Luis Robert Jr. or Brent Rooker could also bolster their lineup.
2. Starting pitching: With the departure of Taijuan Walker, the Phillies face a challenge in their rotation. They might look internally, eyeing top prospect Andrew Painter’s return from Tommy John surgery. However, they may need to seek immediate solutions through free agency, considering options like Yusei Kikuchi, Walker Buehler, or even veterans like Justin Verlander or Max Scherzer.
3. Bullpen: The Phillies must address their relief pitching, especially with Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez hitting free agency. Re-signing one or both would be wise. They should target top-tier relievers like Clay Holmes, Blake Treinen, or Tanner Scott to maintain their status as contenders for the World Series.
ATLANTA BRAVES
1. Starting pitching: Following a savvy trade that brought Chris Sale to Atlanta, the Braves are likely to seek further upgrades in their rotation. They may explore the trade market or consider free agents like Nathan Eovaldi or Nick Pivetta, especially with uncertainties surrounding Spencer Strider’s availability at the start of the season.
2. Shortstop: Orlando Arcia’s struggles last season make him a prime candidate for trade. With better options available, the Braves could pursue free-agent shortstop Willy Adames or versatile infielder Ha-Seong Kim to strengthen their infield.
3. Outfield: With Ronald Acuña Jr. sidelined early in the season, the Braves need a reliable stopgap in right field. They should consider free agents like Michael Conforto, Alex Verdugo, or Travis Jankowski to fill this role until Acuña returns.
NEW YORK METS
1. Starting pitching: The Mets currently have only Kodai Senga listed in their rotation, highlighting the urgent need to rebuild. With several starters hitting free agency, they should target top-tier pitchers like Corbin Burnes or Blake Snell to enhance their rotation.
2. Outfield: The Mets face challenges in right field with Starling Marte’s injury history. Brandon Nimmo remains a consistent presence, but adding a player like Juan Soto or free agents Anthony Santander and Teoscar Hernández could provide much-needed stability.
3. First base/third base: The Mets must decide on Pete Alonso’s future. If he departs, they could shift Mark Vientos to first base. However, re-signing Alonso might be preferable, and they could also explore adding Alex Bregman to their infield mix.
WASHINGTON NATIONALS
1. Power bat: The Nationals are filled with young talent and are looking to make a significant move this offseason. Rumors about a potential reunion with Juan Soto persist, and acquiring a power hitter could address their lineup issues. Other candidates include Anthony Santander and Joc Pederson.
2. First base: The Nationals should target a strong first baseman to solidify their infield. Options like Pete Alonso or Christian Walker are on the table, with Walker being a more fitting choice due to his experience and expected shorter contract.
3. Starting pitching: There’s potential for a sentimental reunion with Max Scherzer, which could bring valuable experience to a young roster. Other veteran free agents like Nathan Eovaldi or Kyle Gibson might also be viable options.
MIAMI MARLINS
1. Outfield: The Marlins need to fill the center field position after trading Jazz Chisholm. They should target mid-tier free agents like Mark Canha, Jesse Winker, or Harrison Bader, who would provide a significant upgrade over their current options.
2. Catcher: Nick Fortes requires a partner behind the plate. The Marlins could explore lower-tier options like Max Stassi or Martin Maldonado, but investing in higher-end free agents like Danny Jansen or Elias Diaz would greatly enhance their offensive capabilities.
