Four MLB Stars Accept Qualifying Offers
In a move that shook the baseball world, four prominent MLB players have accepted qualifying offers from their respective teams. Trent Grisham of the New York Yankees, Gleyber Torres of the Detroit Tigers, Brandon Woodruff of the Milwaukee Brewers, and Shota Imanaga of the Chicago Cubs, have chosen to secure their immediate future with a $22.025 million contract for the 2026 season.
The decision of these players to accept the offer guarantees them a considerable salary for next season. This choice allows them to return to their current teams, providing stability while they evaluate their long-term options.
On the other hand, nine players rejected qualifying offers, meaning that if they decide to change teams in free agency, their former teams will receive compensation in the form of draft picks.
- Kyle Schwarber (Phillies)
- Ranger Suarez (Phillies)
- Kyle Tucker (Cubs)
- Framber Valdez (Astros)
- Bo Bichette (Blue Jays)
- Dylan Cease (Padres)
- Michael King (Padres)
- Edwin Diaz (Mets)
- Zac Gallen (Diamondbacks)
Since the implementation of the qualifying offer in 2012, only 14 of 144 players had accepted it. With recent decisions, the total number rises to 18 out of 157.
Grisham, Torres, Woodruff, and Imanaga likely wouldn’t have gotten a higher annual value on the open market, so they opted for a higher salary for one season, understanding the possible labor battle ahead due to the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement after next season. The economic situation of the game in 2027 and beyond is uncertain.
Grisham, who had an outstanding season with the Yankees, where he batted .235 with 34 home runs, his career high, and an OPS of .811, will receive a $17 million raise by accepting the offer.
Imanaga will also enjoy a salary increase after earning $13.25 million last season. In 2025, he had a 9-8 record with a 3.73 ERA, although he struggled in September and October.
Woodruff, returned from a shoulder injury in 2025, participating in 12 games before missing the postseason due to a back ailment.
Torres, who earned $15 million last season in his first year with the Tigers, hit .256 with 16 home runs and 74 RBIs.
