As MLB spring training kicks off, the focus is on the American League East teams and their off-season moves.
baltimore orioles
2025
Record: 75-87
manager
Craig Albanaz (first season)
spring training venue
Sarasota, Florida
Main additions
The Orioles made a significant addition by bringing in Pete Alonso from the Mets, who didn’t seem too eager to keep their franchise home run leader. They also traded for Ryan Helsley, who takes on the closer role, and made other additions including Andrew Kittredge for the bullpen, Shane Baz to bolster the rotation, and added outfielders Taylor Ward and Leody Taveras.
major loss
To secure Ward from the Angels, Baltimore traded away Grayson Rodriguez, a promising first-round pick from 2018, who didn’t play last season due to injuries and subsequent elbow surgery. Free agents like Gary Sanchez and Tomoyuki Kanno are also noteworthy departures.
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Despite a challenging offseason, the Orioles might still benefit from acquiring another veteran starter, although Framber Valdez has since signed with the Tigers. There’s definitely buzz around Alonso’s five-year, $155 million deal and how his experience might support the Orioles’ younger players like Gunnar Henderson, Jackson Holiday, and Adley Rutschman as they seek redemption after the letdowns of last season.
boston red sox
2025
Record: 89-73
manager
Alex Cora (8th season)
spring training venue
Fort Myers, Florida
Main additions
In the wake of Alex Bregman’s departure to the Cubs, the Red Sox focused on their pitching by signing Ranger Suarez. They also welcomed rookie Sonny Gray from the Cardinals and added catcher Willson Contreras in the mix. Utility player Isaiah Kiner-Falefa joined via a trade with Pittsburgh, along with former Yankees prospect Caleb Durbin from Milwaukee.
major loss
The offseason was upended when Bregman opted out, which the Red Sox had expected to avoid. They also lost Rob Refsnyder, Steven Matz, and Dustin May to free agency, and Jordan Hicks was traded to the White Sox, while Lucas Giolito remains unsigned.
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How will the Red Sox adapt offensively without Bregman? The addition of Suarez should enhance their pitching alongside Garrett Crochet, but Gray’s performance under pressure is still a question mark. Meanwhile, a new young core featuring Durbin, Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer, Christian Campbell, and an returning Triston Casas, who missed most of last season, is anticipated to step up.
tampa bay rays
2025
Record: 77-85
manager
Kevin Cash (12th season)
spring training venue
Port Charlotte, Florida
Main additions
The Rays are sticking to their budget, avoiding any big free-agent signings. However, they did add veterans Nick Martinez and Steven Matz to their pitching ranks. They expect outfielders Cedric Mullins and Jake Fraley to bounce back as well. In trades, they’ve acquired infielder Gavin Lux, young third baseman Ben Williamson, and outfielder Jacob Melton.
major loss
Notably, Pete Fairbanks moved to the Marlins, and the departures of Brandon Lowe and Josh Lowe, alongside Jake Mangum and Christopher Morrell, leave the team with fewer standout players.
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On a brighter note, the Rays will finally return to their home field this season, moving back to the now-repaired Tropicana Field. As they look ahead, all eyes will be on top prospect Carson Williams, who made his debut at shortstop last year.
toronto blue jays
2025
Record: 94-68
Manager: John Schneider (5th season)
spring training venue
Dunedin, Florida
Main additions
The Blue Jays made headlines by signing Dylan Cease to a substantial seven-year, $210 million contract. Cody Ponce, who has been out of the majors since 2021, is also set to play a crucial role after a successful stint in Korea. They took a big step by securing Japanese third baseman Kazuma Okamoto on a four-year, $60 million deal and brought in right-hander Tyler Rodgers for the bullpen.
major loss
Bo Bichette’s exit to the Mets creates challenges for both the infield and batting lineup. Seranthony Dominguez’s move to the White Sox is another hit, while key pitchers Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt are still looking for new teams, along with infielder Ty France. Isaiah Kiner-Falefa’s signing adds to Boston’s roster.
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Having signed Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a long-term contract last season, the Blue Jays are eager to keep the momentum going after a near World Series win against the Dodgers. The looming question is whether Trey Yesavage will make his MLB debut in September, building off a strong season that was essential for Toronto’s postseason performance.
