⚾ MLB Playoffs 2025: Offseason Outlook for Eliminated Teams

The 2025 MLB postseason is heating up — but for some teams, the season is already over. After early exits, a few clubs now face major off-season

decisions that could define their 2026 campaigns.

🗽 New York Yankees

Eliminated by: Blue Jays The Yankees’ October run ended fast, and all eyes now turn to free agency. Cody Bellinger is expected to opt out after a solid 29-homer season, leaving a big gap in the outfield. With Gerrit Cole returning from surgery and a deep rotation led by Luis Gil and Max Fried, pitching looks strong — but expect New York to push to re-sign Bellinger and reload for another title chase in 2026.

🔴 Cincinnati Reds

Eliminated by: Dodgers The Reds need power — plain and simple. Despite a strong young rotation, the team’s lack of home run production hurt them all year. With payroll flexibility and a stacked group of arms like Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo, Cincinnati could be aggressive in free agency or swing a big trade for a proven bat.

⚔️ Cleveland Guardians

Eliminated by: Tigers The “Guards Ball” run was fun while it lasted, but Cleveland’s offense has to improve. With Jose Ramírez leading the way and top prospects like Chase DeLauter coming up, expect internal growth more than big spending.

🌴 San Diego Padres

Eliminated by: Cubs With Dylan Cease and Michael King hitting free agency, San Diego’s rotation needs help — again. Joe Musgrove and Yu Darvish return, but both come with injury questions. A.J. Preller may get creative on the trade market, but the Padres’ payroll will dictate how much they can add around Machado and Tatis Jr.

🔵 Boston Red Sox

Eliminated by: Yankees Alex Bregman could opt out, forcing Boston to choose between keeping his leadership or reallocating cash to pitching. Expect the Sox to bring back key pieces like Bregman or Lucas Giolito, while exploring trades from their young, crowded outfield group.

The fall chill hits early for these clubs — but the hot stove is just warming up. 🔥