TOP FIVE: Best MLB Offseason Moves

In our Feb. 19 podcast, Bob and I broke down the MLB offseason. He took the five worst moves of the winter, while I recapped the five best. You can see his list here, but if you're looking for quality you might want to read on.

1.) Chicago White Sox- Trade for Jeff Samardzija, revamp bullpen, sign Melky Cabrera

I went bold again on the show, picking the White Sox to finish second in a very competitive American League Central Division. And what’s not to like on paper? The White Sox got a steal in Cabrara, who they added for three years at $42M. Tack on David Robertson, left handed reliever Zach Duke and the Samardzija trade to a core of Chris Sale and Jose Abreu and you’ve got all the pieces for a breakout team.  

2.) Cleveland Indians- Trade a Double-A prospect for Brandon Moss

Brandon Moss is already the Indians’ No. 4 hitter, hitting 21, 30 and 25 home runs in the last three years — an average of about 25 long balls in that span. While his average has dropped during that same timeframe, from .291 to .234, the Tribe isn’t adding Moss for his ability to get on base. They’re adding him because they’re in desperate need of a big bat in the middle of the order and Moss certainly provides that at very little cost.

3.) Toronto Blue Jays- Trade Brett Lawrie and prospects for Josh Donaldson

Now it’s time to ask: What was Oakland thinking? The Athletics gave away Moss and then got a mediocre return for one of the best, and youngest, third base power hitters in the league. Donaldson has hit 24 and 29 home runs in the last two seasons with an average of .301 and .255. Durability isn’t an issue either, as he’s played in 158 games in that same span. His contract? Not an issue as the Blue Jays only have to pay him $4.3M after arbitration and have him under control through the 2018 season. Seriously, Oakland, what gives?

4.) San Diego Padres- Remake outfield and sign James Shields to a four-year, $75M deal

First the Padres bring in Matt Kemp, Justin Upton and Wil Myers to completely overhaul their outfield, then they cap off the winter with a big splash on the pitchers market. James Shields can provide stability to a solid rotation including Andrew Cashner, Tyson Ross and Ian Kennedy. San Francisco may be the defending World Champions, but in odd years during their three-championship run they’ve missed the playoffs. San Diego could make a move in the NL West.   

5.) Seattle Mariners- Sign Nelson Cruz to a four-year, $58M deal

Seattle was the best team not to make the playoffs last season, finishing one game behind the Athletics. With Oakland in NBA tank mode, the Mariners clearly think they can step up and adding the guy who led the majors in home runs with 41 is a big step forward. Obviously 41 home runs is a tall order to ask of anyone, especially in Safeco Park. But I don’t think he’ll slide too far and should remain productive as he’s connected on at least 28 doubles in last four seasons (he hit 18 in 2013, shortened by a steroids suspension) and at least 22 home runs every season since 2009 — and that includes only playing 109 games in 2013 and 108 games in 2010.

Disagree? Share yours with me.

-Chris