Detailed Analysis of MLB Free Agents 2025-26
The MLB free agent class for the 2025-26 season is shaping up to be fascinating, despite not featuring star names like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, or Juan Soto, figures who dominated the market in recent years. This season stands out for the abundance of power hitters and closing relievers, complemented by quality starting pitchers and third basemen.
Predicting where these talents will play will be a challenge, promising an exciting offseason. The domino effect of unexpected signings, such as the possible departure of Kyle Schwarber from the Phillies or Pete Alonso from the Mets, could generate significant movements in the market.
Spending money will be considerable, although not always effectively. The performance of the top ten free agents last year was notable, maintaining 82% of their value compared to previous years.
Let’s analyze the most prominent figures of the 2025-26 offseason.
Player with the Most Potential to Surprise: Kyle Tucker
Kyle Tucker emerges as the most coveted free agent, with projections of an 11-year, $418 million contract. Despite this figure, Tucker presents certain risks and does not reach the level of the stars of past seasons.
- Will turn 29 during the season.
- Of the contracts over $300 million, only three players were older than Tucker at the time of signing.
- Has never had a season with 6 WAR.
- Has suffered significant injuries in consecutive seasons.
The high price limits the number of teams capable of signing him. The Dodgers, Mets, Yankees, Phillies, and Blue Jays could be candidates, but each faces its own challenges.
Los Angeles Dodgers: With money available after the departure of several players, they need to rejuvenate their roster, although their outfield prospect system is strong.
New York Mets: They have financial capacity, but they could allocate a large part of their budget to the renewal of Alonso and Diaz. In addition, they need to reinforce their rotation and bullpen.
New York Yankees: The outfield is already saturated with talent, and the renewal of Cody Bellinger is not ruled out.
Philadelphia Phillies: They need a productive hitter in the outfield, but their priority is to re-sign Schwarber.
Toronto Blue Jays: They could be the favorites, but Tucker’s contract, added to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s, could be a challenge. Bo Bichette’s renewal could be a more viable option.
If these teams don’t secure Tucker, others like the Orioles, Giants, Rangers, Reds, and White Sox could be options, although with different priorities and long-term plans.
Player Most Likely to Help the Dodgers Achieve the Three-Peat: Bo Bichette
Bichette meets all the Dodgers’ needs:
- Improvement at second base, where the Dodgers need an offensive boost.
- High-average hitter (.294 career).
- Player in his prime (28-year-old season).
With a projected five-year, $130 million contract, Bichette fits within the Dodgers’ budget, leaving them room to sign a closer.
Player for Whom the Reds Should Roll Out the Red Carpet: Kyle Schwarber
Schwarber is the perfect piece for the Reds, who need an impact hitter and are looking to consolidate in the playoffs. His projected contract, of four years and $128 million, is more accessible than Tucker’s, and his connection to Ohio could be a key factor.
Player with Potential for 40 Home Runs… or to Be a Big Bust: Munetaka Murakami
Murakami possesses a tremendous power, but his strikeout rate is concerning. His performance against fastballs and his adaptation to MLB will be crucial. The estimations of his contract vary considerably.
The Perfect Swiss Army Knife Player: Cody Bellinger
Bellinger offers versatility in the field and a more affordable projected contract. He is a better fielder and runner than Tucker, making him an attractive option for many teams. The Tigers, Rangers, and Mets could benefit from signing him.
Player Needed to Boost the Phillies: Alex Bregman
Bregman would bring experience and a change of attitude to the Phillies, who need to improve their offensive performance. He could replace Bohm at third base and provide an impact hitter at the top of the lineup.
The Closer Worth the Risk: Devin Williams
Williams, despite an irregular season, remains a quality reliever. His strikeout rate and ability to avoid hard hits make him an attractive option for teams like the Mariners, who need to reinforce their bullpen.
Best Free Agent Moment Award: Tatsuya Imai
Imai, after a standout season in Japan, could see his value increase following Yamamoto’s feats in the playoffs. Although his control and reliance on the fastball could be a challenge in MLB, his potential is undeniable.
Player Most Likely to End Up on the Pittsburgh Pirates: Ryan O’Hearn
O’Hearn could have the opportunity to play daily with the Pirates, who are looking to reinforce their offense. His performance against left-handed pitchers suggests valuable potential.
The Pitcher Suitable for a One-Year Contract: Justin Verlander
Verlander, despite his age, proved to be competitive. A return to the Giants, where he could benefit from a pitcher-friendly park, could be a viable option.
