MLB Free Agent Market Heats Up: Analysis and Outlook for 2025-26
The doubts about the free agent market for the 2025-26 Major League Baseball (MLB) seasons quickly dissipated during the general managers’ meetings in Las Vegas. With the collective bargaining agreement about to expire and the possibility of a lockout in 2027, the teams made it clear that they are moving forward without letting the uncertainty of the future affect the present. Alofoke Deportes brings you a detailed analysis of what is expected in this market.
A clear example of this mentality is the [Pittsburgh Pirates](mlb/team/_/name/pit/pittsburgh-pirates), who, despite not being known for large expenditures, have shown interest in investing heavily. The largest contract they have awarded was more than a decade ago, for $39 million to Francisco Liriano. Now, they are considering investing significantly more in key players and strengthening their rotation, seeking to complement Paul Skenes.
One of the most exciting possibilities is Konnor Griffin, a 19-year-old prospect. The Pirates are seriously considering giving him the opportunity to be the team’s shortstop. Griffin impressed scouts with a .333/.415/.527 average, 21 home runs, and 65 stolen bases in his first professional season. However, the decision is complex, as the last time a teenage position player debuted in the Major Leagues was Juan Soto in 2018.
The idea of integrating Griffin with new hitters and a top-tier rotation is attractive enough to make the Pirates a team to watch this winter.
The free agent market isn’t expected to fully activate until after Thanksgiving, but once it begins, a very busy offseason is anticipated. Below, an analysis of the most outstanding players.Most Coveted Hitters
The two Kyles: Kyle Tucker and Kyle Schwarber, despite sharing the same first name and agent, belong to different categories. Tucker, with an OPS+ of 140, is the most important player on the market. Schwarber, after an outstanding season with 56 home runs, also generates a lot of demand.
Schwarber, due to his age and position (designated hitter), could sign for a maximum of five years. Teams like the Phillies, Red Sox, Mets, Blue Jays, among others, are interested in his services. Schwarber has excellent plate discipline and has shown great evolution, even against left-handed pitchers.
Tucker, for his part, could get a contract of more than 10 years. The Blue Jays are considered the favorites to sign him. The Dodgers could opt for a short-term contract. Other interested teams could be the Giants and the Orioles.Bo Bichette: He is the youngest national free agent available, with an excellent performance in 2025. Despite doubts about his defense at shortstop, teams have not shied away from him. The Braves, Tigers, and Yankees are some of the interested teams. The opportunity to sign a player of his caliber without giving up prospects is very attractive.Boras’ Clients in the Service Center
Scott Boras, a renowned agent, represents several important players, including Alex Bregman, Pete Alonso, and Cody Bellinger. These players, along with Tucker, Schwarber, and Bichette, make up an elite group. The Yankees, Blue Jays, and Dodgers are some of the teams interested in Bellinger.
The Red Sox, the Tigers, and the Cubs are also in the hunt for Bregman. Alonso’s versatility, who can play first base and designated hitter, makes him an attractive target for teams like the Mets, Red Sox, Reds, and Orioles.International Talent: Japanese Sluggers
Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto, two of Japan’s best hitters, will also be free agents. Murakami, with his power, could get a nine-figure contract. Okamoto, known for his ability to connect with the ball, could sign a short-term contract.
Several teams, such as the Mets, Red Sox, Diamondbacks, Rangers, and Pirates, have shown interest in these players.Other Names to Consider
Gleyber Torres, Trent Grisham, Eugenio Suárez, Ha-Seong Kim, Jorge Polanco, Ryan O’Hearn, and J.T. Realmuto are other players who could generate significant interest. Realmuto, the only available starting catcher, is a key piece for many teams.Short-Term Bets
Bader, Ozuna, Yastrzemski, Castro, Refsnyder, Hoskins, Jansen, Thomas, Mullins, Goldschmidt, Kepler, and Conforto are players who could sign one-year or short-term contracts.The Big Question: Luis Arraez
Luis Arráez, known for his hitting ability, could be a test for the value of batting average in modern baseball. However, his lack of power and defense could limit his contract options.The Importance of Pitching: Candidates for Big Contracts
Starting pitching continues to be fundamental to winning championships. Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, and Tatsuya Imai are the most outstanding pitchers in this market. They are expected to receive large offers.
Valdez, known for his consistency and ability to induce ground balls, is a highly reliable pitcher. Cease, on the other hand, stands out for his velocity and strikeout ability. Imai, the NPB’s star pitcher, could be the highest-paid pitcher due to his youth.
Ranger Suárez, Michael King, and Zac Gallen are also in the sights to obtain good contracts. Suárez, a consistent left-handed pitcher, could generate a lot of interest. King, despite the injuries, is seen as a valuable talent. Gallen, although he had a difficult season, could benefit from the high demand in the market.Short-Term Betting on Pitching
Shota Imanaga and Brandon Woodruff are interesting options for short-term contracts. Woodruff, after an injury, remains an elite pitcher. Merrill Kelly is also a name to consider.
