As we assess the NL East this offseason, we see a division that has made significant financial investments in free agency. The total spending of $972.75 million paints a picture of a powerhouse division with the resources to compete at the highest level.
However, when we look closer, we realize that a large portion of that money went to one player: Juan Soto. Without Soto’s contract, the division’s spending drops to $207.75 million, placing it behind the AL East, AL West, and NL West in terms of total investment.
This sheds light on the overall quietness of the NL East this offseason, despite sending three teams to the playoffs in 2024. Let’s delve into how each team – the Phillies, Mets, Braves, Nationals, and Marlins – has approached the offseason so far.
Philadelphia Phillies
Major moves:
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Acquired SP Jesús Luzardo via trade from the Miami Marlins
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Signed RP Jordan Romano to a 1-year deal
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Signed OF Max Kepler to a 1-year deal
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Signed SP/RP Joe Ross to a 1-year deal
Offseason grade: B-
The Phillies, coming off their NL East championship, aimed to shake things up after a disappointing playoff exit. While there were rumors of potential trades involving key players like Alec Bohm, no significant deals materialized. Instead, the focus shifted to bolstering the pitching staff with acquisitions like Jesús Luzardo and Jordan Romano.
Offensively, Max Kepler’s signing stands out as the Phillies’ main addition. The team’s success in 2025 will once again hinge on the performance of their star hitters, with Kepler expected to provide a boost if he can stay healthy.
New York Mets
Major moves:
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Signed OF Juan Soto to a 15-year deal
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Re-signed SP Sean Manaea to a 3-year deal
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Signed SP Clay Holmes to a 3-year deal
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Signed SP Frankie Montas to a 2-year deal
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Signed SP Griffin Canning to a 1-year deal
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Acquired OF Jose Sirí via trade from the Tampa Bay Rays
Offseason grade: A-
The Mets made a splash by signing Juan Soto to a historic contract, instantly elevating their status as contenders. In addition to Soto, the team focused on rebuilding their starting pitching rotation, addressing key departures with signings like Sean Manaea and Clay Holmes.
However, there are still areas, like the bullpen, that require attention. With the potential re-signing of Pete Alonso looming, the Mets have the opportunity to further strengthen their lineup and solidify their offseason success.
Atlanta Braves
Major moves:
Offseason grade: D
The Braves have taken a cautious approach to free agency, opting to rely on internal options and returning players to fill roster gaps. While this strategy may benefit from the return of key players like Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr., it also leaves room for improvement in terms of adding depth and experience to the team.
With several key players hitting free agency, including Max Fried and Charlie Morton, the Braves will need to make strategic moves in the coming weeks to address their roster needs and maintain their competitive edge.
Washington Nationals
Major moves:
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Signed SP Trevor Williams to a 2-year deal
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Signed SP Mike Soroka to a 1-year deal
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Acquired 1B Nate Lowe via trade from the Texas Rangers
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Signed RP Jorge Lopez to a 1-year deal
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Signed 1B Josh Bell to a 1-year deal
Offseason grade: C-
The Nationals, despite having some promising young talent, have been relatively quiet in free agency. With opportunities to make significant additions, the team has chosen to focus on retaining key players and making smaller acquisitions to strengthen their roster.
While the moves made so far are solid, there is a sense of missed opportunity for the Nationals to elevate their status and compete at a higher level in 2025. The team’s success will depend on how well they can maximize the potential of their current roster and navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
Miami Marlins
Major moves:
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Traded 3B/1B Jake Burger to Texas
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Traded SP Jesús Luzardo to Philadelphia
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Acquired 1B Matt Mervis via trade from the Chicago Cubs
Offseason grade: C
The Marlins have embraced a rebuilding phase, focusing on acquiring young talent and trading away veteran players. While the team has made some moves to strengthen their future prospects, the emphasis remains on long-term growth rather than immediate success.
With a new leadership direction under Peter Bendix, the Marlins are positioning themselves for a competitive future, even if it means enduring short-term challenges and losses.