MLB Offseason Officially Begins: Qualifying offer Decisions loom, 40-man Rosters Due
The baseball world shifts into high gear today as the conclusion of the World Series triggers a flurry of offseason activity. Free agency officially opens, allowing players to negotiate with all 30 MLB teams, and clubs must decide whether to extend Qualifying Offers to their departing free agents. Additionally, teams face a deadline to finalize their 40-man rosters.
this annual post-World Series date marks a pivotal moment, setting the stage for roster construction for the upcoming season. Qualifying offers, set at $22.025 million for the 2024-2025 offseason, can influence a free agent’s market value and the draft pick compensation received by the signing team. Simultaneously, teams must address their 40-man rosters, potentially exposing players to waivers or engaging in trades to create space.
earlier today, the Chicago Cubs and Colin Rea agreed to a one-year extension, demonstrating how option decisions can quickly evolve into larger agreements.
MLBTR’s Anthony Franco recently previewed potential Qualifying Offer decisions for both pitchers and position players, offering insight into which players might receive the one-year tender.
The Tampa Bay Rays have already initiated roster maneuvering, acquiring outfielder ryan Vilade from the Cincinnati Reds and sending right-hander Joey gerber to the New York Mets in trades designed to address 40-man roster constraints. Teams must activate all players from the 60-day injured list and reduce their 40-man rosters to 40 players or fewer today, potentially leading to further waiver claims and trades.
