In the heartland of the National League, the five clubs faced a challenging 2024 season compared to their midwest counterparts in the American League Central. The Brewers, under new manager Pat Murphy, dominated the division, while the Cubs struggled under Craig Counsell’s leadership. Injuries plagued Cincinnati, St. Louis remained stagnant, and Pittsburgh finished last once again.
This winter, each team responded to their disappointing seasons in different ways. Let’s delve into their offseason moves and grades.
Milwaukee Brewers
Major moves:
– Acquired SP Nestor Cortes, INF Caleb Durbin via trade from New York
– Acquired RP Grant Anderson via trade from Texas
– Selected RP Connor Thomas from St. Louis in Rule 5 Draft
Offseason grade: C
The Brewers bid farewell to key players like Willy Adames and Devin Williams, making some short-term acquisitions that may impact their performance. While they have been consistent contenders, their quiet offseason raises some concerns about their ability to defend their NL Central title.
Chicago Cubs
Major moves:
– Acquired OF Kyle Tucker via trade from Houston
– Signed SP Matthew Boyd to a 2-year deal
– Signed C Carson Kelly to a 2-year deal
– Acquired RP Ryan Pressly via trade from Houston
– Acquired RP Eli Morgan via trade from Cleveland
Offseason grade: B
The Cubs made a bold move in acquiring Kyle Tucker, signaling a shift in their approach. However, their hesitance to make significant free-agent signings leaves some gaps in their roster, banking heavily on Tucker’s performance.
St. Louis Cardinals
Offseason grade: D
The Cardinals have been focused on trading Nolan Arenado, but struggles to find a suitable deal have left them with a lackluster offseason. The team has been more about subtraction than addition, leaving them with an inactive winter.
Cincinnati Reds
Major moves:
– Hired Terry Francona as manager
– Signed SP Nick Martinez to a 1-year deal
– Signed OF Austin Hays to a 1-year deal
– Acquired SP Brady Singer via trade from Kansas City
– Acquired 2B Gavin Lux via trade from Los Angeles
– Acquired C Jose Trevino via trade from New York
– Acquired RP Taylor Rogers via trade from San Francisco
Offseason grade: A-
The Reds have been proactive in building a competitive roster, making several significant additions to strengthen their team. With Terry Francona at the helm, there is renewed energy and optimism surrounding the Reds in the upcoming season.
Pittsburgh Pirates
Major moves:
– Acquired INF Spencer Horwitz via trade from Toronto (via Cleveland)
– Signed DH Andrew McCutchen to a 1-year deal
– Signed INF/OF Adam Frazier to a 1-year deal
– Signed RP Caleb Ferguson to a 1-year deal
– Signed RP Tim Mayza to a 1-year deal
Offseason grade: D+
The Pirates have focused on building a strong pitching staff but have been reluctant to make significant investments in their lineup. Their offseason moves may not be enough to support their talented pitchers, raising concerns about their competitiveness in the upcoming season.