The American League East was one of the most competitive divisions in the entire MLB last season, with three out of five teams making the playoffs. With the offseason in full-effect here is what each team needs to accomplish this offseason in the hopes of a great 2023 season:
Baltimore Orioles - Improve Pitching Depth + Sign Veteran Infielders
The Baltimore Orioles' past season can be described as a stepping stone within the organization. For the first time in countless years the Orioles' did not finish last in their division, they even made a brief push for a playoff spot. The young Orioles team surprised many as they finished with a 83-79 record, finishing just three games out of a wild card position.
Like reinstated Baltimore has one of the best young cores in the entire MLB, with the likes of Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman and Ryan Mountcastle.
In addition, the O's should look to improve their starting pitching depth if they were to take another step next season. John Means is the main man on the starting staff, but was only able to pitch eight innings last season due to an injury. Furthermore, Dean Kremer was a pleasant unexpected surprise after the righty posted a 3.23 ERA, along with a 8-7 record. Potential free agent fits include Carlos Rodon, Kyle Gibson, Zach Eflin and Michael Wacha.
Another need within the Baltimore organization would be veteran infielders, specifically up the middle. Baltimore's current starting middle players include Ramon Urias (2B) and Jorge Mateo (SS). While we feel that Urias is a player that deserves a starting role, the backup role is pretty bare. A veteran, defensive presence would fit nicely in between the young, developing talent the Orioles have. For example, free agents like Alcides Escobar, or more expensive players like Jean Segura.
Boston Red Sox - Resign Xander Bogaerts + Fix Bullpen
Disappointing. The only word to describe the Boston Red Soxs' 2022 season. After, exceeding expectations the year prior, Boston took a step back showing regression in their game. A stretch of injuries, bad luck and poor performance ultimately lead to a disappointing season. Alex Cora's squad finished last-place in the AL East with a 78-84 record.
How awkward would it be to see Xander Bogaerts in a new uniform? Very. Boston can't lose another superstar as the city recovers from the Mookie Betts trade which occurred just three years ago. Bogaerts is literally the heart-n-sole of the Red Sox team, the starting shortstop has been a mainstay since his rookie year. The man known as "Bogey" or the "X-man", hit for a .307 average, while batting in 15 home runs and 73 RBI's. The Aruba native won the Silver Slugger and was nominated to the All-Star Game for his efforts.
The bullpen has been one of the main issues within the Red Sox organization, but has yet to be fixed by the front office. The Red Sox bullpen was absolutely horrible last season, accounting for multiple losses. Key names within the bullpen simple underperformed while youngsters were simply brought in to fail. For example, supposed closer Matt Barnes finished with a 4.31 ERA, while set-up man Ryan Brasier had a 5.78 ERA. Once again, like mentioned in the past the Red Sox will not compete for a playoff spot till they fix their necessary bullpen issues.
New York Yankees - Resign Aaron Judge + Bolster Backend of the Bullpen
A mixture of emotions can describe the New York Yankees season. From the terrific regular season, to the disappointing playoff defeat to the Houston Astros. Aaron Boone lead the team to another AL East pennant as the Bronx Bombers ended the season with a 99-63 record.
What's the main goal this offseason? Sign Aaron Judge, ASAP! The Yankees need Judge their superstar to take their team to another level. The massive, right-fielder ended his historic season with 62 home runs and 131 RBI's. Judge was important on both sides of the ball posting an impressive 10.6 WAR. The price will be steep, but the Yankees will look to sign their superstar to a max contract.
Furthermore, the Yankees should explore to additional bullpen depth this offseason. With the departure of Aroldis Chapman, the Yankees will turn to Clay Holmes to become their closer. The Yankees should look for another key figure to push their team over the edge. For example, exploring the potential of Edwin Diaz, who had a terrific 2022 season. Diaz ended his most successful career with a 1.31 ERA and 118 strikeouts. If not Diaz, the Yankees should definitely explore a setup man to add security within the backend of the pen.
Tampa Bay Rays - Add Offensive Weapons
The Tampa Bay Rays are one of the most interesting teams to review heading into free agency. A low-market team that hardly retains their veterans and likes to develop a flagrant farm system. The Rays had a disappointing end to their 2022 season, finishing third in the east and getting sweeped by the Cleveland Guardians.
For one, the Rays should definitely look for offensive weapons to suit their precisely designed roster. Offense was the clear problem within the Rays system last season. Tampa finished the regular season scoring just 666 runs, which was 21st in the MLB. A potential fit would be Wil Myers.
Further on, it is quite certain that Tampa management will be lively this offseason. The Rays have one of the best front offices in the entire league, as they work with a limited amount of cap space. Don't be surprised if the Rays end up making numerous of small trades, to backup their future and to save cap.
Toronto Blue Jays - Add Fifth Starter, Left-Handed Bat
Oh great! Just like the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Blue Jays ended their season with a humiliating blown lead to the Seattle Mariners during the first round of the playoffs. Underlined with poor playoff success, the Blue Jays did have a terrific regular season. The team finished second in the AL and made the playoffs after missing out narrowly the year prior. The Jays look to be a playoff regular with their existing core of young superstars.
First off, the Jays should definitely look to add a fifth starter within their rotation. Preferably, one with playoff experience like a veteran arm. Jays' pitching straight up struggled during the postseason, adding a capable arm should straighten up the nerves and act as a mentor with the young group. Furthermore, do you really trust Yusei Kikuchi starting games? Kikuchi was awful last season, recording a 5.19 ERA.
Secondly, the Jays should definitely look into a left-handed bat. After, the departure of Teoscar Hernandez, a name like Brandon Nimmo came up within the Blue Jays system. Nimmo would be a terrific pickup for a brilliant Toronto team. Nimmo is a left-handed bat, who provides solid power along with a fairly high batting average. Last season, with the Mets Nimmo recorded 17 dingers and a .274 BA.