MLB 2024 Offseason Update: Orioles’ draft strategy; Mets’ bold pursuits; Royals target surprise trades

With another grueling MLB season concluded, the business side of the sport now comes to the fore. While the players spend some well-deserved time off, it is now time for the executives to perform, as all 30 franchises work tirelessly to improve their squads and ensure that they start the 2025 season stronger than they ended the last. Here are some key offseason developments for MLB teams.

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MLB Offseason - how the Orioles, Mets and Royals plan to go about strengthening their squads

Having run out of steam towards the end of the 2024 campaign, the Baltimore Orioles disappointingly ended the season, losing to the New York Yankees in the battle for the AL East Crown, before crashing out of the postseason at the first hurdle. A key area the Orioles have identified to improve is their pitching staff.

There are several solid options on the market, but the O's are looking to avoid going for any players who have received qualifying offers to hold on to a high pick in the MLB draft. Nathan Eovaldi and Jack Flaherty are two major names that are more up Baltimore's alley, as both are not eligible for a qualifying offer, with Eovaldi reportedly the preferred option. A potential extension of Corbin Burnes' stay at Camden Yards is not yet fully ruled out.

(Left to Right) Nathan Eovaldi, Corbin Burnes and Jack Flaherty (Images from - Getty)

Another team looking to bolster its pitching staff is the New York Mets, aiming to follow up with a strong 2025 season after a historic 2024 campaign. Having already signed free agent Frankie Montas and agreed to a 3-year $38 million deal with closer Clay Holmes, the Mets are rumored to also be eyeing Eovaldi, Flaherty, Nick Pivetta and Walker Buehler. Re-signing Sean Manaea after a great strong season is also an option that may well materialize.

(Left to Right) Josh Rojas, Jonathan India and Jurickson Profar (Images from - Getty)

The Kansas City Royals, in contrast to the Mets and Orioles, have identified their offense as an area to improve on this winter. Having already landed Jonathan India, the Royals are looking to bring in a lefty bat to add some versatility to their lineup. Switch-hitter Jurickson Profar would be a perfect fit at Kauffman Stadium but is too pricey, with the team looking to keep its wage bill in the $120 million range, just like it was in 2024.

Under those budget constraints, there are not a whole lot of options to choose from. Josh Rojas, who was recently released by the Seattle Mariners, is a strong candidate for the role, with outside chances for the return of Adam Frazier and/or the acquisition of Brett Baty.