--- title: "MLB Offseason Kicks into Gear Despite Quiet Start" url: https://newscentral.site/mlb-offseason-kicks-into-gear-despite-quiet-start/ language: en publisher: "News Central Site" section: "Sports" published: 2026-11-07T15:49:11.000Z updated: 2026-11-08T03:38:33.616Z id: 4efbaefa-5ac9-4cba-b34e-fea8de2bd932 source: "CBS Sports \n https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mlb-free-agency-2026-27-under-the-radar-players/" attribution: "Link to https://newscentral.site/mlb-offseason-kicks-into-gear-despite-quiet-start/ and name News Central Site when you quote or summarize this story." --- # MLB Offseason Kicks into Gear Despite Quiet Start The 2026-27 MLB offseason is expected to pick up pace in coming days and weeks leading up to December 1st winter meetings. The 2026-27 MLB offseason has officially kicked off, but so far it's been a quiet start to what promises to be a busy period for teams looking to bolster their rosters. Despite the initial lull, experts expect activity to pick up in the coming days and weeks leading up to December 1st, when the winter meetings will take place. The free agent market is not considered particularly strong this year, with only a handful of top-tier players available. However, there are still dozens of quality players looking for new homes. Teams seeking to improve their supporting cast and raise their floor may find value in lesser-known free agents who have flown under the radar so far this offseason. Abreu has been a workhorse in the bullpen since 2022, ranking third in appearances and second in innings pitched among relievers during this period. However, it's becoming increasingly clear that his workload is taking a toll on him, which could impact his effectiveness as a closer. Despite these concerns, Abreu still possesses the skills to contribute to a contender's bullpen, particularly in high-leverage situations where he can rely on his experience and ability to miss bats. His role may need to be adjusted to accommodate his current situation, potentially shifting from a ninth-inning closer to a setup reliever who pitches in key moments but not necessarily in the highest-pressure situations. Crawford's defensive abilities have declined significantly since entering his 30s, making him no longer suitable for shortstop duties. While he played some third base this past season, his range and arm have diminished to the point where he may need to transition to a different position. A possible solution is moving Crawford to second base or third base, where he can still contribute to the lineup without being burdened by heavy defensive responsibilities. Sean Newcomb's career trajectory took a dramatic turn two years ago when he struggled with injury and ineffectiveness. However, Newcomb managed to reinvent himself as a reliable relief pitcher, focusing on his sinker and curveball, which has become the cornerstone of his game. He has since established himself as a workhorse utility reliever who excels in limiting walks and hard contact in the air. His fastball remains strong, allowing him to maintain effectiveness on the mound, while his splitter is a highly effective swing-and-miss pitch that neutralizes both right-handed and left-handed batters. As a high-leverage reliever, Pagán presents a trade-off: he can excel in key situations, but also comes with some risk of surrendering home runs. Despite this, he has proven to be a capable pitcher who could thrive in important innings for a competitive team. Joc Pederson is a skilled platoon designated hitter who excels against right-handed pitchers and remains an effective hitter despite his age, which will turn 35 in April; when not hitting, he can also stand in the outfield or at first base for short stretches before being replaced. --- Source: [CBS Sports]( https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/mlb-free-agency-2026-27-under-the-radar-players/ ) Published by News Central Site: https://newscentral.site/mlb-offseason-kicks-into-gear-despite-quiet-start/