MLB Hot Stove: Orioles, Mets, Yankees, Cubs Baseball Teams Could All Still Improve In The New Year [VIDEO]

This has been one of the most exciting MLB Hot Stove seasons in recent memory, with the Dodgers completely revamping their roster, the Padres, White Sox and Marlins making serious moves towards contention, and the Red Sox stealing two former NL West stars. The Dodgers, for example, have made more than 30 transcations in seven weeks, according to SB Nation, one which included sending starting outfielder and former MVP candidate Matt Kemp to a division rival. They also sent away an All-Star in his 20s in Dee Gordon. This after winning the division last season. So it's been an interesting winter.

Still, there are a few teams with items still on their Christmas shopping lists. Here are four squads that can get better in the new year.

4. New York Mets – need SS, RP

The Mets appeared ready to contend following the return of ace Matt Harvey and emergence of Jacob deGrom and catcher Travis d'Araud. They even acquired outfielder Michael Cuddyer to boost what can be a tepid offensive product. But the Marlins have improved rapidly and the Mets need to shore up a hole at shortstop to be more than pretenders in the National League East (Tulo, anybody?). They could also sign a veteran reliever to help prove last year's 3.14 bullpen ERA wasn't a fluke.

3. New York Yankees – need 2B

The roster is old, and it's not excellent, even with the signings of Chase Headley and Andrew Miller. But the Yankees have two prospects ready to fight it out for second base, and two not-highly rated prospects at that. After finding Derek Jeter's replacement at short, Brian Cashman needs to give Didi Gregorius a double-play partner.

2. Chicago Cubs – need LF, INF, RP

No doubt the Cubs have improved by signing Jon Lester, trading for Miguel Montero. Kris Bryant is emerging, the Cubs don't feel the need to guarentee him the third baseman position this early in his career, according to the Chicago Tribune. They should grab veteran, versatile infield help to back up a slew of young, unproven players. What is Bryant struggles? What if Javier Baez can't make contact? These are all possibilities and ones Chicago should prepare for. Also, having Chris Coughlan in left field is not going to cut it for a team that wants to contend.

1. Batlimore Orioles – RF, RP

The Orioles lost home run champion Nelson Cruz, leadoff hitter Nick Markakis and filthy reliever Miller, who all jumped ship for more money. That's a lot of production to replace. Baltimore has stop gaps Steve Pearce and Alejandro De Aza to play outfield and DH, but they aren't long term solutions. If the O's want to repeat as AL East champions, they need to start spending some money.