The MLB Free Agent Market 2025-26: An Overview
Concerns about the health of the MLB free agent market for the 2025-26 seasons dissipated during the general managers’ meetings in Las Vegas. With the collective bargaining agreement set to expire and the possibility of a lockout that could affect the sport in 2027, teams made it clear that they are moving forward without letting the uncertainty of the future derail the present.
A clear example of this is the Pittsburgh Pirates, who don’t usually spend much on signings. Despite this, they are preparing to invest significantly in the market. They seriously considered spending more than double what they have historically invested in Josh Naylor before he renewed with Seattle. In addition, they are evaluating other options to reinforce their rotation, led by Paul Skenes, who had an outstanding performance in the second half of the season.
Another interesting aspect is the possibility of Konnor Griffin, a 19-year-old minor league player, having the opportunity to be the starting shortstop. Griffin impressed scouts with his performance, showing great potential. However, the decision is complicated, as they don’t want to rush Griffin’s development.
The idea of combining Griffin with new hitters and an elite rotation is attractive, making the Pirates a team to watch this winter. The market is expected to become active after Thanksgiving, promising a very busy offseason.Batters in the Market
Regarding the batters, two players named Kyle stand out: Kyle Tucker and Kyle Schwarber. Although they share a name and agent, their situations are different.Kyle Tucker
Tucker, with an OPS+ of 140, is the best player available and is expected to get a contract of at least $300 million, possibly exceeding $400 million.Kyle Schwarber
Schwarber, on the other hand, is coming off an excellent season, leading the National League in home runs and RBIs. Despite his age and position, the demand for Schwarber is high. Teams like the Phillies, and surprisingly the Pirates, are interested in him. His annual value is expected to exceed $30 million.
Other teams interested in Schwarber include the Red Sox, Mets, Blue Jays, Cincinnati, and Detroit. Schwarber is a player with good plate discipline and has improved his performance against left-handed pitchers.
It is likely that Schwarber will sign before Tucker, who could have more limited offers due to his high value. The Blue Jays are considered the favorites to sign Tucker. The Phillies could also be an option, while the Dodgers could opt for a short-term contract.
Other teams that might be interested in Tucker are the Giants and the Orioles.
The Cubs are not expected to match Tucker’s price.Bo Bichette
Another notable name is Bo Bichette, the youngest available free agent. Bichette had a great season in 2025. Despite a knee injury, he returned for the World Series and performed well. He is a valuable player, but there are doubts about his defense. Teams have not shied away from Bichette as a shortstop. The Blue Jays, Braves, and Detroit have needs in that position.
The opportunity to sign a player of his caliber without having to give up prospects is rare.Boras’ Clients
In the 2023-24 offseason, several of Scott Boras’ clients didn’t get the contracts they were looking for. This winter will be crucial for Bellinger, Bregman, and Alonso, who, along with Tucker, Schwarber, and Bichette, make up the most prominent group of hitters in free agency.
The Blue Jays see Bellinger as a good alternative to Tucker. The Dodgers have also shown interest. The Red Sox are interested in Bregman. Detroit and Chicago could also be in the running.
Alonso’s willingness to play as a designated hitter gives him more options. He could stay with the Mets, go to Boston, join Cincinnati, or, if Mountcastle is traded, share the first base and designated hitter positions in Baltimore.
It is expected that the three will get millionaire contracts. The speed with which these agreements are finalized will set the course for the winter.The Japanese Sluggers
Two of Japan’s best hitters are heading to MLB this winter: Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto.
Murakami, a 25-year-old left-handed hitter, has great potential. He is expected to get a nine-figure contract. Okamoto, 29, is a right-handed hitter with excellent skills. He could sign a short-term contract.
Both could get larger-than-expected contracts.The Rest of the Batters
Other free agent hitters who could generate interest are: Eugenio Suárez, Ha-Seong Kim, Jorge Polanco, Ryan O’Hearn, J.T. Realmuto, Harrison Bader, Marcell Ozuna, Mike Yastrzemski, Willi Castro, Rob Refsnyder, Rhys Hoskins, Danny Jansen, Lane Thomas, Cedric Mullins, Paul Goldschmidt, Max Kepler, and Michael Conforto.The Big Question
Luis Arráez, despite being one of the youngest players available, might not get a big contract due to his defensive limitations and lack of power.
Arráez is a contact master, but that is not so valued in modern baseball.Free Agent Pitchers
The postseason demonstrated the importance of starting pitchers. Teams are looking for quality pitchers. Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, and Tatsuya Imai are the most prominent pitchers this winter. They are expected to get big contracts. The Mets, Cubs, Red Sox, Orioles, and Blue Jays are competing for them.Framber Valdez
Valdez is a consistent pitcher who generates many ground balls. His ground ball rate is the highest among starters.Dylan Cease
Cease has a great fastball and many strikeouts. His potential is high.Tatsuya Imai
Imai, 27 years old, is one of the gems of the Japanese league. He could be the highest-paid pitcher this winter.
Ranger Suárez, Michael King, and Zac Gallen are also expected to get good contracts.
Merrill Kelly, Lucas Giolito, Chris Bassitt, and Cody Ponce could also be interesting options.
Ponce, a former second-round pick,
