4 MLB Teams That Have Had a Disappointing Offseason

Chicago Cubs star Kris Bryant
Chicago Cubs star Kris Bryant / Christian Petersen/Getty Images

While some MLB teams have gone on spending sprees throughout the offseason, others have remained relatively stagnant, not spending much money or pursuing any big-named players. Most of the top free agents are off the market now as Spring Training approaches, and some clubs may end up regretting their lack of activity.

Here are the four clubs who have had the most disappointing winters.

4. St. Louis Cardinals

St Louis Cardinals manager Mike Shildt
St Louis Cardinals manager Mike Shildt / Patrick Smith/Getty Images

While the addition of Matthew Liberatore was a solid one, the Cardinals failed to retain Marcell Ozuna, and also didn't make any marquee free agent signings. The trade talks for Nolan Arenado could change things, but that situation remains up in the air. For a team that was so close to the World Series, the Cards have so far failed to make many meaningful acquisitions, and may struggle to claw back to the NLCS in 2020.

3. Boston Red Sox

Boston Red Sox OF Mookie Betts
Boston Red Sox OF Mookie Betts / Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

When the Red Sox announced their plans to get under the luxury tax, it signaled to fans that the team would not be spending much money this offseason. If anything, offloading salary would be the more likely option. Well, thus far, not much of either has happened, as the most significant signings the Red Sox have made have been Jose Peraza and Martin Perez. Not much cause for celebration in Beantown in that regards. The team may yet deal Mookie Betts ahead of the regular season, which could change the narrative on the club's offseason, but for now Boston fans are likely disappointed.

2. Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs manager David Ross
Chicago Cubs manager David Ross / David Banks/Getty Images

The Chicago Cubs are just a few years removed from their World Series win, but sailing has not been quite so smooth of late. After missing the playoffs in 2019, the Cubs failed to upgrade the roster anywhere, and could also lose Nicholas Castellanos to free agency. With owner Tom Ricketts failing to spend a dime in the offseason, the Cubs are at risk of getting lapped by their NL Central rivals, and the team doesn't seem willing to do anything about it. Every rumor surrounding the Cubs this winter has been regarding the potential exit of star third baseman Kris Bryant.

1. Houston Astros

Houston Astros 2B Jose Altuve
Houston Astros 2B Jose Altuve / Tim Warner/Getty Images

The Astros have dominated headlines all offseason. Unfortunately, it hasn't been for the team's big splashes in free agency. We'll spare you the well-known details of the team's sign-stealing scandal, and instead focus on offseason moves, of which the team has scarcely made any. The 'Stros have seen multiple players depart via free agency, including Gerrit Cole, Wade Miley, Will Harris and Robinson Chirinos. It's certainly been an offseason to forget in Houston.