Major League Baseball has published its official offseason calendar outlining critical dates for the 2026-27 winter period. The schedule includes deadlines for free agency, arbitration, the Rule 5 Draft, and the winter meetings.
Key milestones begin immediately after the World Series concludes, with the free-agent signing period opening five days later. Clubs must tender contracts to arbitration-eligible players by mid-November, while the non-tender deadline follows shortly after.
The annual winter meetings, where most major trades and signings occur, are scheduled for early December. The Rule 5 Draft takes place on the final day of those meetings. International signing period restrictions lift in mid-January, ahead of spring training reporting dates in February.
Baltimore Orioles general manager Mike Elias addressed reporters at Camden Yards earlier this year regarding the club's offseason strategy, though specific roster plans remain undisclosed.
