MLB GM Meetings: Mets, Padres, and Cubs Target Rotation Overhauls as Free Agency Heats Up

The annual MLB general managers meetings at the Aria hotel in Las Vegas provided a clearer picture of how several clubs plan to address major roster deficiencies this winter, with starting pitching taking center stage. Front offices for the New York Mets, San Diego Padres, and Chicago Cubs confirmed they are aggressively looking to add multiple arms to rebuild depleted rotations.

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns noted that right-handers Nolan McLean and Christian Scott are currently the only rotation locks on the active roster. Similarly, the Cubs face a massive overhaul after losing all five starting pitchers from their 2026 campaign to free agency, prompting general manager Carter Hawkins and president Jed Hoyer to target pitching depth. In San Diego, president of baseball operations A.J. Preller emphasized the urgency to move quickly and secure multiple rotation pieces ahead of a potential work stoppage next month.

Super agent Scott Boras also captured headlines during his traditional media address, fielding calls regarding top free-agent starter Tarik Skubal. The coveted left-hander is heavily linked to suitors including the Dodgers, Mets, Padres, and Blue Jays. Additionally, veteran right-hander Freddy Peralta emerged as a major storyline following a standout postseason run with the Rays, putting him in position for a potential nine-figure deal despite a rocky stint with the Mets earlier in the year.

“There’s not a specific number that you can say ‘Alright, we have that many starters, we’ll be good,’” said Cubs GM Carter Hawkins regarding the team's offseason pitching strategy.

What to watch next: Monitor potential early free-agent signings and meetings with top arms like Tarik Skubal before the anticipated December transaction freeze.