As the 2024-25 Major League Baseball offseason continues, teams are in full swing with their preparations for the upcoming season. While some of the biggest names have already found new homes—most notably Juan Soto—there are still plenty of marquee free agents and trade targets available. The Winter Meetings may be behind us, but the flurry of rumors continues to roll in, providing a steady stream of intrigue and speculation for fans and teams alike.
One of the most discussed topics in the offseason has been the Los Angeles Dodgers’ pursuit of outfielder Teoscar Hernández. The power-hitting outfielder has long been a target for the Dodgers, who are looking to bolster their lineup with a consistent bat capable of making an impact in the middle of their order. However, reports have emerged suggesting that the Dodgers are preparing a Plan B in case they are unable to secure Hernández’s services. The Dodgers, who have long been known for their deep pockets and willingness to add top-tier talent, have set their sights on Hernández as a potential game-changer for their outfield. But with other teams also vying for his services, the Dodgers are wise to hedge their bets and ensure they are not left scrambling should Hernández ultimately decide to sign elsewhere. The Dodgers are likely exploring other options on the trade market and in free agency, looking for another outfield bat that can provide similar production to Hernández. Should their pursuit of the outfielder fail, expect Los Angeles to pivot quickly and bring in a suitable replacement, all while remaining in contention for another championship run in 2025.
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals are drawing significant interest in their arms as the offseason progresses. The Cardinals, who have been in rebuilding mode over the past couple of years, are reportedly open to moving some of their pitching assets in order to further strengthen their roster. Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring pitchers from the Cardinals, particularly those who can provide immediate impact and fill a crucial role in a contending team’s rotation. While St. Louis has a deep pool of young arms, their willingness to part with some of their more established pitchers could help facilitate other offseason moves. As the pitching market heats up, the Cardinals find themselves in a position where they could make a significant trade that could help them accelerate their rebuilding process or add key pieces for the 2025 season. Given the depth of interest in their pitchers, St. Louis could be one of the more active teams in the coming weeks, evaluating offers and weighing their options carefully as they decide what direction to take with their pitching staff.
The intrigue surrounding Hernández’s free agency and the Cardinals’ pitchers speaks to the larger trends taking shape across the league. Teams are increasingly focused on adding key pieces to their roster that can make an immediate impact. For the Dodgers, the acquisition of Hernández or another outfield bat could be the final piece they need to compete for a championship. For the Cardinals, the opportunity to deal from a position of pitching strength could help accelerate their transition into a more competitive phase as they continue to develop their young talent. These ongoing developments are just a glimpse into the larger moves that could reshape the MLB landscape for the 2025 season.
With the offseason still in full swing, rumors and speculation will continue to dominate the headlines. The market for free agents and trade targets will evolve as teams make adjustments based on their needs and the available talent. For teams like the Dodgers and Cardinals, every move counts as they look to position themselves for success in the upcoming season. Whether it’s through securing the services of a coveted free agent or making strategic trades to address roster needs, the 2024-25 offseason promises to be a thrilling ride for baseball fans everywhere.