The MLB offseason heading into 2026 continues its course, and with the start of the new year, the news is coming.
Of the 25 most prominent free agents according to Kiley McDaniel, 13 have not yet signed a contract. Rumors about possible transfers of some stars continue to circulate.
Big Names in the Spotlight
What’s happening with hitters Kyle Tucker, Alex Bregman, Cody Bellinger, and Bo Bichette? Will All-Stars Ketel Marte or Tarik Skubal be traded in the coming weeks? What other players are generating interest in the industry?
Experts Buster Olney and Jesse Rogers bring us the latest news of this offseason.
The Stagnation of Free Agents
Olney points out that the market is at a point where negotiations are stalling. Agents and players have high expectations about their value, while teams have a limit on the prices they are willing to pay. This is the case for Tucker, Bregman, Bichette, and Bellinger.
A clear example is Bellinger. Although he had an excellent season and the New York Yankees want to keep him, the difference between what the player is asking for and what the team is offering is considerable. Bregman interests the Boston Red Sox, who could offer a significant sum. Bichette is wanted by several teams, but they differ in their valuation of the player.
Some agents believe the Toronto Blue Jays could sign some of the big names. The Los Angeles Dodgers are lurking, waiting for an opportunity with Tucker or Bichette, similar to what happened with Freddie Freeman.
Possible Destinations and Needs
Rogers mentions that Bregman could be between Toronto and Arizona, although the Red Sox could still be in the running. Bellinger and the Yankees could be in a similar situation, where the player tests the market while his former team waits.
Tucker has both short-term and long-term options, and Toronto is not ruled out. His age and ability to hit stand out as his value. In the last two years, Tucker and Juan Soto are the only ones with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 1:1 and a slugging percentage above .500.
Other Featured Free Agents
Olney highlights Luis Arraez, who, despite his ability to connect the ball, could struggle on defense and running the bases. Miguel Andújar could find a team, especially after Rob Refsnyder’s performance. Andújar had a great performance against left-handed pitchers.
Rogers mentions that infielders are waiting for Bregman’s signature. Eugenio Suárez and Yoan Moncada could also find a team.
Imai’s Impact on the Pitcher Market
Olney believes that Tatsuya Imai’s agreement with the Astros will not have a big impact, except to remove Houston from the list of teams looking for high-level pitchers. Imai’s contract is a bet on his future.
Rogers agrees that Imai’s contract will not set a new standard in the market. Ranger Suárez and Framber Valdez, who have already proven their worth, seek security.
Launchers in the Spotlight
Olney highlights Suárez and Valdez, who could go to the Mets. Rogers notes that the relievers signed early, while the starters await their turn. Zac Gallen, Zack Littell, and Lucas Giolito are gaining attention. The Mets, Cubs, A’s, Braves, and possibly the Yankees and Angels could need a starter.
Transfer Market Moves
Olney reports that the Diamondbacks could take Ketel Marte off the market if they don’t receive a suitable offer. The Tigers have set a high price for Tarik Skubal, and he is expected to be in camp at the start of the season. The Nationals’ Mackenzie Gore and the Cardinals’ Brandon Donovan could be traded.
Rogers agrees with Olney on Donovan, while the Arenado market moves slowly. The Brewers could receive more offers for Freddy Peralta than the Tigers for Skubal.
Luis Robert of the White Sox has no traction in the trade market, while Edward Cabrera of the Marlins could be traded.
More News
Olney points out the concern for third and fourth-tier free agents, including relievers and established hitters like Marcell Ozuna and Hunter Renfroe. The situation of Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander is also being closely followed.
Rogers highlights Verlander’s good performance in the second half of the season, and suggests a similar approach to that of the Dodgers with Blake Snell or the Blue Jays with Scherzer.
