MLB 2026-2027 Offseason Calendar

Following the conclusion of the World Series, Major League Baseball heads into the 2026-2027 offseason with key dates outlined across November and December. Major checkpoints include the start of free-agent signings on November 6, the GM Meetings from November 9-12, and the non-tender contract deadline on November 20. The offseason calendar leads up to the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement on December 1, when team owners are widely expected to initiate a lockout.

Several Minnesota Twins players face key contract decisions, including free agents AJ Minter, Taylor Rogers, and Ryan Jeffers, alongside mutual option decisions for Josh Bell and Joe Ryan. The expected December 1 lockout threatens to postpone or cancel key winter events such as the Winter Meetings, the Rule 5 Draft, and the MLB Draft Lottery. Writer Benjamin Jones argues that billionaire owners are facing heightened pressure and that implementing a blanket salary cap is not the proper solution to spending disparities.