Angels Sign Kikuchi Amid MLB Offseason Moves

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MLB offseason sees Angels sign Kikuchi, Reds seek improvements, while Marlins and Braves face challenges.

The MLB offseason is heating up as teams make strategic moves to bolster their rosters. The Los Angeles Angels have been particularly active, signing players like Yusei Kikuchi, Kyle Hendricks, Jorge Soler, Travis d`Arnaud, and Kevin Newman for a total of $48 million in 2025. Despite these acquisitions, the effectiveness of these signings remains uncertain, as many of the new players are in their 30s.

The Cincinnati Reds have also made several additions, including Brady Singer, Nick Martinez, Gavin Lux, Jose Trevino, and Brent Suter. However, they still face significant gaps in their lineup, particularly at first base, designated hitter, left field, and starting pitching. The Reds are exploring options to fill these needs, with potential targets like Anthony Santander, Jurickson Profar, or Pete Alonso.

On the other hand, the Miami Marlins have had a quiet offseason, focusing more on non-baseball events like `Miami Live!` at loanDepot park. The team has struggled with talent acquisition and has been hesitant to invest in their roster, having traded away players like Jesus Luzardo and Jake Burger.

The Atlanta Braves are facing challenges as well, receiving a grade of D- after losing key starters Max Fried and Charlie Morton. They are hopeful for the return of Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. to help fill the void. The Braves have made minor signings, including Nick Allen and Bryan De La Cruz, but these moves are not expected to significantly impact their performance.

The Colorado Rockies have made some minor signings, such as Jacob Stallings, Thairo Estrada, and Kyle Farmer, but they still have considerable needs in both offense and pitching. The potential signing of Pete Alonso is being considered, given his hitting capabilities and the favorable conditions at Coors Field.

Recent transactions across the league include the New York Mets signing Jesse Winker to a one-year contract and the Baltimore Orioles acquiring Jacob Amaya off waivers from the Chicago White Sox. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, the 2025 MLB schedule has been released, with Spring Training set to begin on February 20th and the regular season concluding on September 28th. Notable events include the MLB Speedway Classic between the Cincinnati Reds and Atlanta Braves at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 2nd, and the 95th All-Star Game at Truist Park in Atlanta on July 15th. For more details on offseason grades, check out MLB offseason grades and for transactions, visit MLB transactions.

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