MLB Offseason: Ranking the Most Impactful Moves Thus Far

Jan 5, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians newly acquired player Edwin Encarnacion puts on his new jersey during a press conference at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 5, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians newly acquired player Edwin Encarnacion puts on his new jersey during a press conference at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

With MLB spring training opening up next month, let’s take a look at what offseason moves will have the biggest impact in 2017.

Every offseason there are a few moves that seem to either put contending teams over the top or make a losing club much more competitive. This winter has been no different. While there wasn’t as much premier talent on the MLB free agent market than in year’s past, there were still moves made that could shift the balance of power in MLB.

From power hitters and premier closers to a deal that sent one of baseball’s best starters to an already great rotation, this offseason has seen its fair share of changes. That’s not to say that some of the more impactful moves of the offseason have to make the biggest headlines. Sometimes it’s the under-the-radar signings and trades that can make all the difference. Still, normally the best talent makes the most impact.

For this list, we’ll be looking at what transactions this offseason will make the biggest impact on MLB in 2017. Many of these free agent signings and trades will affect teams’ outlooks for longer than  just next season, this list is only focusing on how these moves will shift the landscape for this coming regular season.

So without further adieu, here are the most impactful MLB offseason decisions thus far.