MLB Offseason’s Top Winners and Losers: Tarik Skubal to St. Louis

Emerson Raymont

Published: February 10, 2026 5:40 PM ET

As the 2026 MLB offseason unfolds, significant moves have reshaped the landscape of baseball. The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as notable winners after enhancing their roster with high-profile signings. Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals have faced challenges, navigating a difficult financial landscape and losing key players.

MLB Offseason’s Top Winners

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers remain a powerhouse in Major League Baseball. With a core of Hall-of-Fame players, they have reinforced their lineup rather than resting on past success. This offseason, they signed All-Star closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million deal and acquired outfielder Kyle Tucker on a four-year, $240 million contract. These additions solidify their status as the team to beat in the upcoming season.

Dylan Cease and the Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays have positioned themselves as a competitive force by successfully signing pitcher Dylan Cease to a substantial seven-year, $210 million deal. This contract reflects Cease’s durability and impressive potential on the mound, despite last season’s mixed performance.

Tarik Skubal’s Landmark Deal

Another offseason highlight is Tarik Skubal’s record-setting $32 million salary. Following a notable arbitration victory, the two-time Cy Young Award winner will play his last season before free agency with the Detroit Tigers. His performance will be bolstered by Framber Valdez, another high-performing pitcher added to the roster.

Edwin Díaz: 3-year, $69 million contract
Kyle Tucker: 4-year, $240 million contract
Dylan Cease: 7-year, $210 million contract
Tarik Skubal: Record $32 million salary
Framber Valdez: Three-year, $115 million contract

New York Yankees

The Yankees maintained their competitive edge by retaining much of their successful 2025 roster. However, the pressure remains high as they strive for their first World Series title since 2009. The team’s expectations this season hinge on overcoming previous playoff exits.

MLB Offseason’s Notable Losers

St. Louis Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals have faced numerous challenges this offseason. The team traded several All-Stars, including Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado, resulting in a projected payroll below $100 million. Additionally, the Cardinals cut ties with their regional sports network, which will further impact revenue streams.

Financial Woes Ahead

With historically low attendance and a significant reduction in TV revenue, the Cardinals’ future appears bleak. Despite efforts to rebuild their farm system, many fans are left grappling with the team’s direction.

Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers, known for their consistent performance, are also seen as offseason losers after trading away ace Freddy Peralta. Their sole significant signing, Akil Baddoo, leaves questions about their ambition heading into 2026.

Minnesota Twins

The Twins’ offseason has been marked by a leadership shakeup as they parted ways with former president Derek Falvey. Limited signings, along with a recent downturn in team performance, have left fans uncertain about the upcoming season.

Conclusion

The 2026 MLB offseason has set the stage for an exciting season ahead. The Dodgers have reinforced their dominance, while teams like the Cardinals and Brewers face uphill battles. As rosters continue to take shape, the focus will remain on how these changes impact teams’ performances when the season kicks off.