MLB teams are weighing major roster needs against uncertainty over a possible Dec. 1 lockout. The Mets, Cubs and Padres are prioritizing multiple starting pitchers, while Tarik Skubal headlines a thin free-agent market and could spur teams to act quickly. The Phillies and Mariners are also making defense a central offseason priority.

By the Numbers
  • The Cubs lost all 5 starters from their 2026 rotation to free agency.
  • The Padres lost all but 1 of their starters to free agency.
  • The Phillies ranked last in MLB with -51 Defensive Runs Saved; the Mariners ranked 26th at -23.
  • Trea Turner led MLB with 21 errors.
Yes, But

Teams may feel pressure to sign impact players before a lockout freezes transactions, but uncertainty over the next labor agreement could make clubs cautious about committing to multiyear contracts. The Padres’ interest in Skubal signals ambition under new ownership, though their need to rebuild much of the rotation and existing payroll commitments could limit their ability to win a bidding war.

State of Play
  • Skubal is the market’s top free agent, with the Dodgers, Mets, Padres and Blue Jays among teams expected to meet with him.
  • Freddy Peralta is another prominent starting-pitching option, but the market beyond Skubal is considered thin.
  • So far, only a handful of one-year deals have been completed; top free agents remain unsigned.
  • The Mariners plan to improve their defense, particularly on the left side of the infield, while the Phillies are seeking better defense without sacrificing offense.
What’s Next

Teams could accelerate negotiations before the anticipated Dec. 1 lockout, especially for high-priority players such as Skubal. Clubs will also continue exploring trades, free agents and lower-profile pitching additions to build rotation depth.

Bottom Line

With a potential transaction freeze approaching and few elite starters available, urgency is rising—but teams must balance short-term roster needs against the financial uncertainty of a new labor agreement.