The 2025 MLB offseason has been dominated by big-name signings and blockbuster trades, with marquee players like Juan Soto making headlines. However, amidst the flurry of high-profile moves, there have been several under-the-radar acquisitions that could have a significant impact on the upcoming season.
As we delve into the realm of lesser-known transactions, it’s essential to establish some ground rules. We’ll be focusing on players who fall below the qualifying offer threshold, excluding the top earners and high bWAR players. This narrows our scope to shine a light on the hidden gems across MLB’s 27 remaining teams.
IF Isaac Paredes: A Potential Powerhouse in Houston
One such under-the-radar move to keep an eye on is the trade that sent IF Isaac Paredes from the Cubs to the Astros in exchange for Kyle Tucker. While the Astros may have lost a key player in Tucker, Paredes brings a unique set of skills that could thrive in Houston’s hitter-friendly ballpark.
Paredes’ knack for hitting pull-side home runs aligns perfectly with Minute Maid Park’s dimensions, offering him a prime opportunity to showcase his power. Despite a dip in home run production last season split between Tampa Bay and Chicago, a shift to Houston could see Paredes regain his form and deliver a standout performance in 2025.
With his exceptional plate discipline and the right environment to capitalize on his strengths, Paredes has the potential to be a game-changer for the Astros this season.
OF/DH Randal Grichuk: A Diamondbacks’ Steal
Another hidden gem of the offseason is OF/DH Randal Grichuk’s re-signing with the Diamondbacks for a mere $5 million. Despite being a part-time player last season, Grichuk showcased his prowess against left-handed pitching, posting impressive offensive numbers and solidifying his value in Arizona’s lineup.
With a renewed sense of purpose following ankle surgery, Grichuk’s ability to thrive in a platoon role makes him a valuable asset for the Diamondbacks. His offensive contributions and defensive versatility provide a much-needed boost to a team aiming for another postseason run after narrowly missing out in 2024.
Grichuk’s cost-effective signing underscores the Diamondbacks’ savvy offseason maneuvers, positioning them well for success in the upcoming season.
SP Jesús Luzardo: A Hidden Gem for the Phillies
Traded from the Marlins to the Phillies, SP Jesús Luzardo is a diamond in the rough that has flown under the radar amidst the flurry of offseason moves. Despite injuries hampering his value, Luzardo’s track record as a strikeout artist and potential impact arm make him a valuable addition to the Phillies’ rotation.
With a well-calculated bet on Luzardo’s untapped potential, the Phillies have secured a promising talent at a fraction of the cost of other top arms in the league. As Luzardo aims to bounce back from a challenging 2024 season, his presence in Philadelphia’s rotation could be a game-changer for the team’s pitching depth and competitiveness.
With Luzardo on board, the Phillies are poised to make a strong case in the stacked NL landscape, bolstering their rotation with a high-upside arm at an economical price point.
In conclusion, while the offseason may have been dominated by headline-grabbing transactions, it’s the under-the-radar acquisitions that often hold the key to a team’s success. As we anticipate the upcoming MLB season, keep an eye on players like Paredes, Grichuk, and Luzardo, who have the potential to make a significant impact and reshape the competitive landscape of the league. Stay tuned for more updates as the season unfolds, and be prepared for surprises from these hidden gems that could shine brightly in the spotlight of the baseball world.
