MLB free-agent season is almost here, so it’s time for my annual ranking of the top free agents with contract predictions and the best team fits for each player. Players currently in MLB who are eligible for free agency technically become free agents the day after the World Series ends but cannot sign with a new team until five days after the final out.
This year’s free-agent class is headlined by outfielder Kyle Tucker, who many expect to sign a contract somewhere in the $400 million to $500 million range. It also features two of the game’s top power hitters, designated hitter Kyle Schwarber and first baseman Pete Alonso. Several standout starting pitchers are likely to be available too, led by left-handers Framber Valdez and Ranger Suárez, along with a pair of right-handers who pitched for the Padres this season, Dylan Cease and Michael King. Two impact closers are expected to hit the market, in Edwin Díaz and Robert Suarez. There are also three potential free agents from Japan who made my top 50 ranking.
Along with my colleagues at The Athletic, I will be actively covering free agency and the offseason trade market from start to finish. To kick things off, here is my ranking of the top 50 free agents for the 2025-26 offseason, along with my thoughts on the players as well as information from my conversations with decision-makers across the game.
(Note: Ages are as of Dec. 31, 2025.)
1. Kyle Tucker, RF
Age: 28
Bats: L Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 4.5
2025 team: Chicago Cubs
Agent: Excel Sports Management
Despite a season that was marred by injury and inconsistent performance, Tucker is expected to be the highest paid free agent in this year’s class, with most analysts believing he will get between $400 million and $500 million based on the recent contracts given to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ($500 million; Blue Jays) and Juan Soto ($765 million; Mets). Even in a season that saw Tucker dealing with multiple injuries, he was able to impact the game in all areas thanks to his hit tool, power, defense, arm and speed. In 136 games for the Cubs, he hit .266/.377/.464 with 22 homers, 25 stolen bases and a near 1:1 walk-to-strikeout ratio (87 walks and 88 strikeouts). Teams view him as a complete player who will be a threat to hit 30 homers and steal 30 bases every season.
Tucker’s left-handed swing would play great at Yankee Stadium and his speed would be an important added element to the Yankees lineup. He’d also be a great fit for the Dodgers, who could then move Teoscar Hernández to left field and improve their right field defense. Tucker won’t turn 30 until 2027, and his young age relative to the rest of this class makes him even more inviting to both clubs for the long-term as they could backload the contract to fit their budgets better with expiring contracts down the road.
Salary comps: Juan Soto 15-years, $765 million; Shohei Ohtani 10-years, $700 million; Vladimir Guerrero Jr. 14-years, $500 million; Mike Trout 12-years, $426 million; Mookie Betts 12-years, $365 million; Aaron Judge 9-years, $360 million
Best team fits: Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Phillies, Giants
Contract prediction: 10-years, $427 million
2. Kyle Schwarber, DH
Age: 32
Bats: L Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 4.7
2025 team: Philadelphia Phillies
Agent: Excel Sports Management
In addition to being one of the premier power hitters in the game, Schwarber is highly valued around the league for his clubhouse presence. Although he’s basically limited to the DH position, Schwarber offers consistency — he hit 56 home runs this year and has hit 40 homers or more in three of the last four years — and also durability, having played in 150 or more games each of the last four years, including 162 this year. Every team except the Dodgers and Yankees should want him to be its DH. Although the Phillies will make every effort to re-sign him, it will be fascinating to see what offers Schwarber gets on the open market for his special power bat and ability to mentor younger players.
Salary comps: Rafael Devers 10-years, $313.5 million; Giancarlo Stanton 13-years, $325 million; Alex Bregman 3-years, $120 million; Pete Alonso 1-year, $30 million
Best team fits: Phillies, Mets, Tigers
Contract prediction: 5-years, $160 million
3. Pete Alonso, 1B (player option)
Age: 31
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 3.4
2025 team: New York Mets
Agent: Boras Corp.
Alonso became the Mets’ all-time home run leader this year (he’s now at 264) and he put together a nice rebound season after a down 2024, hitting 38 bombs and leading the National League with 41 doubles. He is beloved in Queens, and the feeling is mutual. The Mets were not willing to give him a long-term contract last offseason, and if they don’t change their tune this time around, they’ll probably lose him. Alonso has belted 37 or more homers in each of the last five seasons and although he’s a below-average defender at first base, he works at it and he’s durable, having played all 162 games in each of the past two seasons. Alonso has a player option worth $24 million he’s expected to decline. He made $30 million in 2025.
Salary comps: Freddie Freeman 6-years, $162 million; Matt Olson 8-years, $168 million; Paul Goldschmidt 5-years, $130 million
Best team fits: Mets, Phillies, Red Sox, Mariners, Rangers
Contract prediction: 6-years, $182 million
4. Framber Valdez, LHP
Age: 32
2025 bWAR: 3.8
2025 team: Houston Astros
Agent: Octagon
Valdez has pitched in plenty of big games and has a track record of performing in the postseason. He’s an elite ground-ball pitcher who pitches deep into games. He did struggle down the stretch this season, allowing four or more runs in four of his final five starts and was the subject of some controversy. Even with that end to his season, he’s still the best starting pitcher in this year’s class.
Salary comps: Garrett Crochet 6-years, $170 million; Tyler Glasnow 5-years, $136.5 million; Carlos Rodón 6-years, $162 million; Blake Snell 5-years, $182 million
Best team fits: Astros, Orioles, Mets, Braves, Cubs, Padres, Giants
Contract prediction: 6-years, $190 million
Will Bo Bichette return to Toronto? (Alex Slitz / Getty Images)
5. Bo Bichette, SS
Age: 27
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 3.4
2025 team: Toronto Blue Jays
Agent: Vayner Sports
Bichette was leading the American League in hits before he suffered a left knee sprain on Sept. 6 that ended his regular season. He batted .311/.357/.483 with 44 doubles, 18 home runs and 94 RBIs, a huge bounce-back season after a career-worst 2024. He’s led the AL in hits twice in the last five years and has a career batting average of .294. He’s a below-average defender at shortstop, however, and several interested teams view him as an option for third base going forward. His prime years have just begun and he’s one of the youngest free agents on the market, though he has dealt with several lower body injuries the past couple of years. As long as teams have a clear sense of the health of his knee, Bichette will have plenty of suitors in free agency because he could be considered a fit as a shortstop, a third baseman or a second baseman.
Salary comps: Willy Adames 7-years, $182 million; Dansby Swanson 7-years, $177 million; Marcus Semien 7-years, $175 million; Matt Chapman 6-years, $151 million
Best team fits: Blue Jays, Red Sox, Tigers, Yankees, Phillies, Dodgers, Cubs, Mariners, Mets
Contract prediction: 7-years, $189 million
6. Alex Bregman, 3B (opt-out)
Age: 31
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 3.5
2025 team: Boston Red Sox
Agent: Boras Corp.
Bregman has an opt-out in his contract with the Red Sox and his camp has already indicated that he plans to test the free-agent market for a second straight offseason. He battled a quad injury for a good part of the 2025 season, and still managed to slash .273/.360/.462 with 28 doubles, 18 home runs and 62 RBIs in 495 plate appearances, though he was significantly less productive after returning from the IL (.727 OPS) than he had been before the injury (.927 OPS). Bregman was a leader in the Boston clubhouse by example and words, mentoring many of the Red Sox young future stars. He will be sought-after in free agency as the industry views him as a winning player who can contribute on both sides of the ball and perform on the biggest stage in the biggest moments. He’ll likely seek a long-term contract instead of settling for a shorter-term deal like he did last year. By opting out of his deal with the Red Sox, he’s walking away from a guaranteed $41.67 million in each of the next two seasons.
Salary comps: Matt Chapman 6-years, $151 million; Willy Adames 7-years, $182 million; Rafael Devers 10-years, $313.5 million; Anthony Rendon 7-years, $245 million; Nolan Arenado 8-years, $260 million; José Ramírez 7-years, $141 million
Best team fits: Red Sox, Tigers, Yankees, Phillies, Dodgers, Cubs, Mariners, Mets
Contract prediction: 6-years, $182 million
7. Ranger Suárez, LHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 4.7
2025 team: Philadelphia Phillies
Agent: Boras Corp.
Suárez has been one of the most consistent left-handed starters in baseball over the last two seasons, making a combined 53 starts with an ERA and FIP both hovering around 3.30 over that span. He doesn’t throw hard but his secondary pitches are very effective and he throws strikes. There should be plenty of interest in the lefty considering he has only 762 career innings at the major-league level on his pitching odometer.
Salary comps: Tyler Glasnow 5-years, $136.5 million; Robbie Ray 5-years, $115 million; Yusei Kikuchi 3-years, $63.68 million; Carlos Rodón 6-years, $162 million; Nathan Eovaldi 3-years, $75 million; Sonny Gray 3-years, $75 million; Blake Snell 5-years, $182 million
Best team fits: Phillies, Mets, Braves, Orioles, Cubs, Padres, Giants, Astros, Tigers
Contract prediction: 6-years, $164 million
8. Dylan Cease, RHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 1.1
2025 team: San Diego Padres
Agent: Boras Corp.
Cease has started 32 or more games in each of the last five seasons, striking out more than 200 batters each year while logging between 165 and 190 innings. This season, he led NL starters in strikeouts per nine innings (11.5) but also saw his walk total increase and his ERA jump to 4.55. His HR/9 also rose from 0.9 in 2024 to 1.1 this year. The wobble in command is a concern, but his ability to miss bats, durability and career FIP of 3.67 will have several contending teams lining up to bid for his services.
Salary comps: Garrett Crochet 6-years, $170 million; Tyler Glasnow 5-years, $136.5 million; Carlos Rodón 6-years, $162 million; Blake Snell 5-years, $182 million
Best team fits: Padres, Braves, Mets, Orioles, Cubs, Giants, Angels, Red Sox, Tigers
Contract prediction: 6-years, $187 million
9. Tatsuya Imai, RHP
Age: 27
2025 team: Saitama Seibu Lions (Nippon Professional Baseball)
Agent: Boras Corp.
Imai is an undersized (listed at 5-foot-11, 154 pounds) right-handed starter for the Saitama Seibu Lions who is expected to be posted this offseason. He sits in the mid-90s with his fastball but can reach the high-90s when he needs it. His best secondary pitch is a wipeout slider and he mixes in a changeup, splitter, curveball and sinker. A two-time All-Star in Japan, Imai posted a 1.92 ERA in 163 2/3 innings this season. Despite his slight build, he’s been durable and profiles in MLB as a mid-rotation innings-eater who can keep hitters guessing.
Best team fits: Mets, Giants, Red Sox, Cubs, Orioles, Astros, Padres
Contract prediction: 7-years, $154 million
A Cody Bellinger reunion in New York would make a lot of sense for both sides. (Evan Bernstein / Getty Images)
10. Cody Bellinger, OF/1B
Age: 30
Bats: L Throws: L
2025 bWAR: 5.0
2025 team: New York Yankees
Agent: Boras Corp.
Bellinger’s ability to play above-average defense at all three outfield positions and first base increases his free-agent worth, although it looks like he’s found a home in left field. He has been a perfect fit for the Yankees, where playing half his games at Yankee Stadium with the short porch in right helped him hit 29 home runs while slashing .272/.334/.480 (he had a .909 OPS at Yankee Stadium and a .715 OPS at every other park). I think he’ll opt out of his contract and try to get the Yankees to give him a longer deal.
Salary comps: George Springer 6-years, $150 million; Teoscar Hernández 3-years, $66 million; Brandon Nimmo 8-years, $162 million
Best team fits: Yankees, Mets, Astros, Padres, Guardians, Royals, Angels, Mariners
Contract prediction: 6-years, $168 million
11. Zac Gallen, RHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 1.1
2025 team: Arizona Diamondbacks
Agent: Boras Corp.
Just two years ago, Gallen was the starting pitcher for the NL in the All-Star Game and finished in the top 10 in the Cy Young Award voting for the third time in four years. He followed that up last year by going 14-6 with a 3.65 ERA and was expected to be one of the top free-agent starters in this year’s class. However, he had a down year, going 13-15 with a 4.83 ERA and 4.51 FIP over 33 starts. His rate of strikeouts per nine innings was the lowest of his career at 8.2, down from 9.5 the previous year. He just turned 30, but over the past two seasons, he hasn’t been the same pitcher he was at his peak. Will teams see a pitcher who can compete for Cy Youngs again, or one who is more of a mid-rotation starter like he was the last two years?
Salary comps: Seth Lugo 2-years, $46 million; Sonny Gray 3-years, $75 million; Nathan Eovaldi 3-years, $75 million; Yusei Kikuchi 3-years, $66.38 million
Best team fits: Orioles, Red Sox, Tigers, Astros, Padres, Giants, Braves, Mets, Cardinals, Cubs
Contract prediction: 5-years, $135 million
12. Munetaka Murakami, 1B/3B
Age: 25
Bats: L Throws: R
2025 team: Tokyo Yakult Swallows (Nippon Professional Baseball)
Agent: Excel Sports Management
Murakami will be posted by his NPB club this offseason. The slugging corner infielder underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery and also had an oblique injury this year, but still hit .286/.392/.659 with 24 homers in 69 games. Despite these physical setbacks, he is expected to be sought-after in free agency, although his injury history could affect how teams evaluate his worth. He profiles as a .240 to .260 type of hitter in MLB with legitimate 30-home run power. Defensively, he’s below average at third base and just adequate at first base. Despite the missed time this year, he has still averaged more than 30 homers a season in Japan and he has a .394 career OBP. At 25, he’s just entering his prime years.
Salary comps: Freddie Freeman 6-years, $162 million; Matt Olson 8-years, $168 million; Paul Goldschmidt 5-years, $130 million; Edwin Encarnación 1-year, $20 million; Carlos Santana 3-years, $60 million; Josh Bell 2-years, $32 million
Best team fits: Padres, Mets, Mariners, Diamondbacks, Guardians, Red Sox
Contract prediction: 6-years, $160 million
13. Michael King, RHP (mutual option)
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 1.2
2025 team: San Diego Padres
Agent: Excel Sports Management
King entered the 2025 season as the potential No. 1 free-agent starter in this class after going 13-9 with a 2.95 ERA in 2024. However, he was placed on the IL on May 25 with a pinched thoracic nerve and when he returned on Aug. 9, he threw only 17 2/3 innings over the remainder of the regular season and only one inning in the postseason, striking out three of the four batters he faced. His medicals will determine the type of contract he gets this offseason, and it is difficult to predict his contract without seeing those records. With that caveat and taking into account the potential injury risk, I predict he’ll land a similar contract to what Nathan Eovaldi got from the Rangers and Sonny Gray got from the Cardinals, even though King is considerably younger than both. That said, if the medicals are completely clear, I could see him getting a five-year deal in the $140 million range.
Salary comps: Nathan Eovaldi 3-years, $75 million; Sonny Gray 3-years, $75 million; Yusei Kikuchi 3-years, $63.68 million
Best team fits: Padres, Yankees, Orioles, Braves, Mets, Cubs, Angels, Astros, Tigers, Red Sox
Contract prediction: 3-years, $75 million
14. Edwin Díaz, RHP (opt-out)
Age: 31
2025 bWAR: 3.0
2025 team: New York Mets
Agent: Wasserman Group
Díaz is expected to opt out of his contract to pursue a longer, more lucrative deal, though he’s made it clear his preference is to return to the Mets. He was again dominant this season, posting a 1.63 ERA with 28 saves and 98 strikeouts in 66 1/3 innings. He ended up with a 0.874 WHIP, too. After making roughly $21 million a season each of the last three years, he has player options for $18.5 million each of the next two years and a team option in 2028 for $20.4 million ($1 million buyout) should he not opt out of his current deal. If he does opt out, a new contract for four years with a slight raise probably brings him back to Queens.
Salary comps: Josh Hader 5-years, $95 million; Tanner Scott 4-years, $72 million
Best team fits: Mets, Dodgers, Yankees, Braves
Contract prediction: 4-years, $88 million
15. Robert Suarez, RHP (opt-out)
Age: 34
2025 bWAR: 2.3
2025 team: San Diego Padres
Agent: Amuse Sports Agency
Suarez and Díaz will be the most sought-after closers in this year’s class. Suarez led the NL with 40 saves, posting a 2.97 ERA with 75 strikeouts over 69 2/3 innings. He logged a 2.17 ERA during the second half of the season with 32 strikeouts and only four walks in 29 innings. The Padres are expected to move on from Suarez because they’re unwilling to commit to the long-term contract and dollars he’s expected to get in free agency. Mason Miller, acquired at the trade deadline, will take over as the Padres’ full-time closer next year, and they feel their strong bullpen depth will be enough if Suarez departs.
Salary comps: Josh Hader 5-years, $95 million; Edwin Díaz 3-years, $64 million; Tanner Scott 4-years, $72 million
Best team fits: Padres, Mets, Dodgers, Yankees, Braves, Red Sox, Tigers
Contract prediction: 4-years, $80 million
16. Shane Bieber, RHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 0.7
2025 team: Cleveland Guardians/Toronto Blue Jays
Agent: Rosenhaus Sports
Bieber had Tommy John surgery in April 2024 and returned to the majors on Aug. 22 with the Blue Jays after being acquired at the trade deadline from the Guardians. He made seven regular-season starts for Toronto, allowing two runs or fewer in five of the outings and pitching at least five innings in all of them. He’s been a significant factor in the Blue Jays’ run to the World Series, starting Games 3 and 7 of the ALCS. Bieber won the AL Cy Young in 2020 and finished in the top seven in voting in 2019 and 2022. He looks similar to the pitcher who dominated then, although his stuff is a tick down. That said, most pitchers coming back from Tommy John are much better a second year removed from the surgery. He’ll probably have to accept another shorter-term deal with an opt-out clause that allows him to get back into free agency next offseason, when he might really be able to cash in if his stuff fully returns. Perhaps a three-year deal worth $75 million with an opt-out after Year 1 would make sense here.
Salary comps: Seth Lugo 2-years, $46 million; Sonny Gray 3-years, $75 million; Nathan Eovaldi 3-years, $75 million; Yusei Kikuchi 3-years, $66.38 million
Best team fits: Blue Jays, Guardians, Red Sox, Braves, Giants, Orioles, Mets, Astros
Contract prediction: 3-years, $75 million with a player opt-out after each year
17. Josh Naylor, 1B
Age: 28
Bats: L Throws: L
2025 bWAR: 3.1
2025 team: Arizona Diamondbacks/Seattle Mariners
Agent: ISE Baseball
Coming off a season in which he hit 31 homers and helped lead the Guardians to the ALCS, Naylor was traded last December to the Diamondbacks, who then sent him to the Mariners at the subsequent trade deadline. Though his home run total dropped from 31 to 20 in 2025, he improved his contact rate considerably and raised his batting average more than 50 points from 2024. He also added a “speed” element to his game, using his smarts on the basepaths to steal a career-high 30 bags despite being among the game’s slowest runners. At 28, Naylor has proven he’s a solid middle-of-the-order bat capable of hitting .300 with 20-plus homers. He might not be a superstar, but he’s a solid defender and a winning player who has helped the Guardians and Mariners to playoff berths the last two years.
Salary comps: Edwin Encarnación 1-year, $20 million; Carlos Santana 3-years, $60 million; Josh Bell 2-years, $32 million; Paul Goldschmidt 5-years, $130 million
Best team fits: Mariners, Mets, Red Sox, Diamondbacks, Guardians
Contract prediction: 4-years, $90 million
18. Kazuma Okamoto, 1B
Age: 29
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 team: Yomiuri Giants (Nippon Professional Baseball)
Okamoto is a 29-year-old corner infielder and a six-time All-Star in Japan who will be posted this offseason by the Yomiuri Giants. In 77 games this season for Yomiuri, the right-handed hitter slashed .322/.411/.581 with 15 home runs but was limited by a left elbow injury that cost him roughly three months of the season. Okamoto has played both infield corners, but most MLB evaluators believe that first base is his best position. He’s a big power bat who has led the league in homers three times and hit a career-high 41 in 2023. He has terrific hand-eye coordination and solid contact skills to go along with the power. Murakami has more raw power than Okamoto — who is four years older — but Okamoto has proven to be more consistent at the plate.
Salary comps: Freddie Freeman 6-years, $162 million; Matt Olson 8-years, $168 million; Paul Goldschmidt 5-years, $130 million; Edwin Encarnación 1-year, $20 million; Carlos Santana 3-years, $60 million; Josh Bell 2-years, $32 million
Best team fits: Mariners, Mets, Red Sox, Diamondbacks, Guardians
Contract prediction: 4-years, $90 million
19. Eugenio Suárez, 3B
Age: 34
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 3.6
2025 team: Arizona Diamondbacks/Seattle Mariners
Agent: Octagon
Suárez led all third basemen this season with 49 home runs and he drove in 118 runs. He was traded from the Diamondbacks to the Mariners at the deadline but struggled after joining Seattle, hitting just .189 with 13 home runs in 53 games and 220 plate appearances. Suárez’s power is real, though, as this was the fifth time in the last six years he hit 30 or more home runs; however, he struggles with strikeouts and his walk rate has dipped the last two seasons. He’ll play at 34 years old next year, which is why he’ll have to sign a shorter-term deal in free agency.
Salary comps: Matt Chapman 6-years, $151 million; Josh Donaldson AAV of $23 million from 2018-23 over three different contracts; Matt Carpenter 2-years, $39 million; Justin Turner 2-years, $34 million
Best team fits: Mariners, Red Sox, Tigers, Phillies, Angels
Contract prediction: 3-years, $72 million
20. Merrill Kelly, RHP
Age: 37
2025 bWAR: 2.9
2025 team: Arizona Diamondbacks/Texas Rangers
Agent: Apex Baseball
Kelly has been consistently solid since 2019, posting an ERA under 4.00 in five of seven seasons. Last year between the Diamondbacks and Rangers, he went 12-9 with a 3.52 ERA in 32 starts. He had 167 strikeouts and 48 walks over 184 innings. Kelly grew up in Arizona and played his junior college and college ball in the state. Don’t be surprised if he re-signs with the Diamondbacks to finish his career with them.
Salary comps: Seth Lugo 2-years, $46 million; Clay Holmes 3-years, $38 million
Best team fits: Diamondbacks, Rangers, Orioles, Mets
Contract prediction: 2-years, $30 million
Gleyber Torres heads into free agency for a second straight offseason, this time coming off a much better season than last year. (David Reginek / Imagn Images)
21. Gleyber Torres, 2B
Age: 29
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 2.9
2025 team: Detroit Tigers
Agent: Octagon
In his first year after leaving the Yankees, Torres had a .358 OBP with 16 home runs for the Tigers and was an important table-setter for them. However, he slumped during the second half of the season and remains a well-below-average defensive second baseman in terms of glove, range and arm strength. Some of his second-half slump may be explained by the fact he was playing through a hernia injury that he had surgery on after the season. Last offseason, he was willing to sign a one-year contract to prove his worth. This time, he should be able to get a multi-year contract.
Salary comps: Tommy Edman 5-years, $74 million; Jeff McNeil 4-years, $50 million
Best team fits: Tigers, Giants, Rockies, White Sox, Angels
Contract prediction: 4-years, $52 million
22. Jorge Polanco, 2B
Age: 32
Bats: B Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 2.6
2025 team: Seattle Mariners
Agent: Octagon
Polanco’s left knee is finally healthy and he just put together one of the better years of his career, hitting 26 home runs and posting an .821 OPS, his best since 2021. He followed that up with a memorable postseason. Polanco can play second or third base but is a below-average defender at both spots and comes with a long history of knee troubles. Offensively, he swings the bat well from both sides of the plate and makes a lot of contact.
Salary comps: Gleyber Torres 1-year, $15 million; Jeff McNeil 4-years, $50 million; Brandon Lowe 4-years, $24 million, Ha-Seong Kim 3-years, $12.5 million; Thairo Estrada 1-year, $4 million
Best team fits: Mariners, Astros, White Sox, Rockies, Giants
Contract Prediction: 2-years, $26 million
23. J.T. Realmuto, C
Age: 34
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 2.6
2025 team: Philadelphia Phillies
Agent: CAA Sports
Age is catching up to Realmuto, who is no longer the All-Star, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger catcher he was from 2018-22. He still holds his own offensively and defensively, but his power has diminished. Defensively, he’s still good at controlling the running game, ranking in the 99th percentile in pop time and 95th percentile in caught stealing. However, his framing and blocking skills are well below average at this point. In all likelihood, he’ll need to take a significant pay cut from his 2025 salary of $23 million, but catching is always in demand.
Salary comps: Salvador Perez 4-years, $82 million; Sean Murphy 6-years, $73 million; Mitch Garver 2-years, $24 million
Best team fits: Phillies, Padres
Contract prediction: 2-years, $34 million
24. Trent Grisham, OF
Age: 29
Bats: L Throws: L
2025 bWAR: 3.5
2025 team: New York Yankees
Agent: ISE Baseball
Grisham put together one of the best seasons of his career at a good time, hitting a career-high 34 homers. He had an up-and-down season production-wise but still managed to be one of the Yankees’ most productive position players overall (3.5 bWAR). He’s never hit for average in his career, but he can draw walks, showed impressive power this season and can play all three outfield positions. That said, he profiles more as a platoon outfielder against right-handers than an everyday center fielder.
Salary comps: Michael Conforto 1-year, $17 million; Tyler O’Neill 3-years, $49.5 million; Lourdes Gurriel Jr. 3-years, $42 million
Best team fits: Yankees, Pirates, Rockies, Twins, White Sox, Angels
Contract prediction: 2-years, $30 million
25. Chris Bassitt, RHP
Age: 36
2025 bWAR: 2.1
2025 team: Toronto Blue Jays
Agent: Meister Sports Management
Bassitt went 11-9 this year with a 4.01 FIP and for the seventh time in eight years finished with an ERA under 4.00. It was also the fourth year in a row he made 30 or more starts and logged more than 170 innings. Bassitt lowered his walk rate to 2.7 per nine innings after it rose to 3.7 in 2024. He has never been a big strikeout pitcher, but he has proven durable since recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2016 and his veteran leadership is also a plus in the clubhouse. At 36, he’s likely looking at a shorter-term deal.
Salary comps: Nathan Eovaldi 3-years, $75 million; Sonny Gray 3-years, $75 million; Marcus Stroman 3-years, $71 million; Seth Lugo 2-years, $46 million; Yusei Kikuchi 3-years, $66.38 million
Best team fits: Blue Jays, Orioles, Tigers, Athletics, Padres, Brewers
Contract prediction: 2-years, $45 million
26. Tyler Rogers, RHP
Age: 35
2025 bWAR: 2.4
2025 team: San Francisco Giants/New York Mets
Agent: Frontline
Rogers is coming off the best year of his career. He posted a 1.80 ERA with the Giants over 53 games before being dealt to the Mets at the trade deadline. He continued his success there, logging a 2.30 ERA over 28 more appearances. He led the NL in games pitched with 81, the fourth time in six seasons he’s led the league in that category. Rogers has one of the most unusual deliveries in baseball and is an extreme ground-ball pitcher who has done a good job against righties and lefties. His durability and the lack of stress he puts on his shoulder and elbow give him a low injury risk despite his career track record of heavy usage.
Salary comps: Tommy Kahnle 1-year, $7.75 million; Matt Strahm 1-year, $7.5 million; Kyle Finnegan 1-year, $6 million; Seranthony Domínguez 2-years, $14.5 million
Best team fits: Mets, Braves, Dodgers, Giants, Tigers, Yankees
Contract prediction: 1-year, $15 million
27. Ryan O’Hearn, 1B/OF/DH
Age: 32
Bats: L Throws: L
2025 bWAR: 2.4
2025 team: Baltimore Orioles/San Diego Padres
Agent: Republik Sports
O’Hearn spent the first half of the season with the Orioles, where he hit .283 with 13 home runs in 94 games before being sent to the Padres at the trade deadline. With San Diego, he hit .276 but his power dropped significantly (.463 SLG with Baltimore; .387 SLG with San Diego). O’Hearn has developed into an everyday player with the ability to hit around .280 with 15 to 17 home runs. He is a below-average defender both in corner outfield spots and at first base. He has solid hands but lacks range. This is his first time as a free agent but he’s likely looking at a shorter-term deal.
Salary comps: Max Kepler 1-year, $10 million; Mike Yastrzemski 1-year, $9.25 million; Lourdes Gurriel Jr. 3-years, $42 million
Best team fits: Padres, Pirates, Twins, Rays
Contract prediction: 2-years, $24 million
28. Raisel Iglesias, RHP
Age: 35
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 1.3
2025 team: Atlanta Braves
Agent: Magnus Media
Iglesias had an impressive four-year run in Atlanta, saving 97 games and tallying a 2.35 ERA in 222 appearances over that span. He had his highest ERA and FIP since 2019 this season, however, and at age 35 is showing signs of decline. That said, he was still durable, appearing in 70 games and leading the NL in games finished with 57. He’ll have to prepare for a pay cut from his $16 million 2025 salary and probably a new home this winter.
Salary comps: Tanner Scott 4-years, $72 million; Jeff Hoffman 3-years, $33 million; Taylor Rogers 3-years, $33 million; Carlos Estévez 2-years, $22.2 million; Blake Treinen 2-years, $22 million
Best team fits: Braves, Giants, Reds, Athletics, Orioles, Angels, Tigers
Contract prediction: 2-years, $24 million
29. Luis Arraez, 1B/DH
Age: 28
Bats: L Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 1.3
2025 team: San Diego Padres
Agent: MVP Sports Group
Arraez has won batting titles as a member of the Twins, Marlins and Padres, winning them in three consecutive years from 2022-24. That streak ended this year when Trea Turner of the Phillies won the NL batting title and Arraez finished fourth. The three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger award winner continues to hit for average and create traffic, although he does it without much pop or production. He’s never hit more than 10 homers, scored 90 runs or driven in 70 in a season. Arraez has a slow bat but he squares the ball up at an elite level and doesn’t swing-and-miss; at times, it’s like he has a tennis racket, the way he places the ball all over the field. At this stage of his career, he’s mostly a first baseman but is a below-average defender.
Salary comps: Gleyber Torres 1-year, $15 million; Jeff McNeil 4-years, $50 million
Best team fits: Padres, Athletics, Pirates, Rockies, White Sox, Angels
Contract prediction: 2 years, $30 million
30. Tyler Mahle, RHP
Age: 31
2025 bWAR: 2.1
2025 team: Texas Rangers
Agent: ISE Baseball
Mahle missed nearly three months of the season with right shoulder fatigue, but he was effective when healthy, posting a 3.37 FIP over 16 starts. Although his four-seamer sits in the low-90s, hitters had a tough time squaring it up and his splitter was a big weapon for him. He knows how to keep hitters off-balance. He has lowered his home run rate and increased his ground-ball and strikeout rates while improving his command and control. Injuries have been an issue for Mahle over the last three seasons — he hasn’t topped 130 innings since 2021. When he’s healthy, Mahle is a solid middle- to back-of-the-rotation starter, but the injury risk will be a factor for potential suitors.
Salary comps: Justin Verlander 1-year, $15 million; Frankie Montas 2-years, $34 million; Jack Flaherty 2-years, $35 million; Alex Cobb 1-year, $15 million
Best team fits: Rangers, Orioles, Angels, Mets, Giants, Tigers, Athletics
Contract prediction: 1-year, $17 million
31. Ha-Seong Kim, 2B/SS/3B (player option)
Age: 30
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 0.4
2025 team: Tampa Bay Rays/Atlanta Braves
Agent: ISE Baseball
In 2023, Kim won a Gold Glove Award as the Padres’ primary second baseman while finishing 14th in the NL MVP voting after he hit .260 with 17 home runs, 60 RBIs and 38 stolen bases. He followed that up in 2024 by hitting .233 with 11 homers and 22 steals in 121 games but his season ended in mid-August when he suffered a tear in his right shoulder labrum diving back to first base. He had surgery on the shoulder before signing with the Rays as a free agent in the offseason. He didn’t debut in 2025 until July 4 and only played in 24 games for Tampa Bay before he was claimed off waivers by the Braves near the end of the season. He ended up playing 24 games with Atlanta. The Braves were hoping he wouldn’t exercise his $16 million player option for 2026, but according to media reports he’s expected to do that. Now, the Braves will try to re-sign him to a multi-year contract in free agency with the hope that he can be their everyday shortstop. His ability to play second base, shortstop and third base increases his value and overall industry interest.
Salary comps: Gleyber Torres 1-year, $15 million; Jorge Polanco 1-year, $7.75 million; Max Muncy 2-years, $24 million
Best team fits: Braves, Padres, Nationals, Tigers, Giants
Contract prediction: 3-years, $39 million
32. Zack Littell, RHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 3.2
2025 team: Tampa Bay Rays/Cincinnati Reds
Agent: CAA Sports
Littell started the year with the Rays, where he went 8-8 with a 3.58 ERA over 22 starts. He was dealt to the Reds at the trade deadline and went 2-0 with a 4.39 ERA over 10 more starts. Littell doesn’t miss many bats (6.3 K/9 in 2025), but he also doesn’t walk many batters either (1.5 BB/9). That formula means he’s very dependent on having a good defense behind him and keeping the ball in the park, but his ability to throw a lot of innings has value. He also has experience as a reliever and could be used in a variety of roles.
Salary comps: Clay Holmes 3-years, $38 million; Tyler Mahle 2-years, $22 million; Germán Márquez 2-years, $20 million; Michael Soroka 1-year, $9 million; Aaron Civale 1-year, $8 million
Best team fits: Rockies, Athletics, Orioles, Rays
Contract prediction: 1-year, $10 million
Emilio Pagán pitched better on the road this season but would welcome a reunion with the Reds. (Aaron Doster / Imagn Images)
33. Emilio Pagán, RHP
Age: 34
2025 bWAR: 2.0
2025 team: Cincinnati Reds
Agent: Ballengee Group
Pagán appeared in 70 games for the Reds in 2025, tossing 68 2/3 innings with a 3.72 FIP. The four-seam fastball and splitter are his two best pitches. He was much better on the road (1.88 ERA) than at home (3.60 ERA), notable since he pitched in a home ballpark that favors hitters. He’s indicated he’d like to return to Cincinnati but should field interest from around the league.
Salary comps: Carlos Estévez 2-years, $22.2 million; A.J. Minter 2-years, $22 million; Blake Treinen 2-years, $22 million; Joe Jiménez 3-years, $26 million
Best team fits: Reds, Athletics, Pirates, Giants, Nationals, Rockies
Contract prediction: 2-years, $22 million
34. Brad Keller, RHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 1.5
2025 team: Chicago Cubs
Agent: Excel Sports Management
After a career spent mostly in the rotation with Kansas City, Keller made 14 of his 16 appearances in 2024 out of the bullpen, splitting the season between the White Sox and Red Sox. This year, he was in the bullpen full-time after joining the Cubs. He embraced the role, appearing in 68 games and posting an impressive 2.94 FIP, while being an integral part of the Cubs’ bullpen success. He’s set himself up for a bright future as a high-leverage reliever.
Salary comps: Tommy Kahnle 1-year, $7.75 million; Kyle Finnegan 1-year, $6 million; Gregory Soto 1-year, $5.35 million; Matt Strahm 1-year, $7.5 million; Paul Sewald 1-year, $7 million; Ryan Brasier 2-years, $18 million; José Leclerc 1-year, $10 million
Best team fits: Cubs, Dodgers, Mets, Braves, Phillies, Cardinals, Tigers, Astros
Contract prediction: 2-years, $15 million
35. Devin Williams, RHP
Age: 31
2025 bWAR: -0.3
2025 team: New York Yankees
Agent: Klutch Sports Group
The Yankees acquired Williams last winter with hopes he’d be the impact closer he was with the Brewers. Unfortunately, that’s not what they got as he ended the season with an ERA near 5.00 and a negative bWAR. He did finish strong, however, pitching well in September and during the postseason. His Bugs Bunny changeup was there at season’s end, too, and it provides hope that he could rebound with a different team next year.
Salary comps: Andrew Kittredge 1-year, $10 million; Kenley Jansen 1-year, $10 million; José Leclerc 1-year, $10 million
Best team fits: Brewers, Braves, Reds, Tigers, Rangers, Giants
Contract prediction: 1-year, $10 million
36. Luke Weaver, RHP
Age: 32
2025 bWAR: 0.8
2025 team: New York Yankees
Agent: Ballengee Group
Weaver was one of the best high-leverage relievers in 2024 for the Yankees and he had a dominant first half of the season this year, posting a 2.91 ERA. It was a different story in the second half when he posted a 4.40 ERA and there was speculation he was tipping his pitches. This winter, teams will have to decide whether Weaver’s second-half issues are fixable and he can be the pitcher he was in the first half.
Salary comps: Blake Treinen 2-years, $22 million; Andrew Kittredge 1-year, $10 million; Jeff Hoffman 3-years, $33 million; Emilio Pagán 2-years, $16 million; Matt Strahm 1-year, $7.5 million
Best team fits: Yankees, Braves, Cardinals, Giants, Athletics, Angels, Orioles
Contract prediction: 2-years, $20 million
37. Ryan Helsley, RHP
Age: 31
2025 bWAR: 0.1
2025 team: St. Louis Cardinals/New York Mets
Agent: Wasserman Group
Helsley started the year as the Cardinals’ closer and logged a 3.00 ERA and 21 saves before being dealt to the Mets at the trade deadline. He never was able to get it together with New York, posting a 7.20 ERA over 22 appearances with an embarrassing 1.80 WHIP. His slider remains his best pitch, but his fastball was crushed all year despite an average velocity of 99.3 mph. He’ll need to figure out how to improve his fastball effectiveness with his next team.
Salary comps: Andrew Kittredge 1-year, $10 million; Kenley Jansen 1-year, $10 million; José Leclerc 1-year, $10 million
Best team fits: Pirates, Athletics, Tigers, Giants, Rays
Contract prediction: 1-year, $10 million
38. Justin Verlander, RHP
Age: 42
2025 bWAR: 1.2
2025 team: San Francisco Giants
Agent: ISE Baseball
Verlander has made it clear he wants to pitch in his age-43 season, and the way he pitched down the stretch, the future Hall of Famer deserves one more shot at it. His best month of the season was September, when he made five starts for the Giants, posting a 2.08 ERA and allowing two earned runs or fewer in four of his five starts. He made 29 starts in total and threw 152 innings with a 3.85 ERA.
Salary comps: Clayton Kershaw 1-year, $7.5 million
Best team fits: Tigers (so he can retire as a Tiger), Giants
Contract prediction: 1-year, $12 million
39. Nick Martinez, RHP
Age: 35
2025 bWAR: 2.3
2025 team: Cincinnati Reds
Agent: Boras Corp.
Martinez made 26 starts and 14 relief appearances for the Reds this season, going 11-14 with a 1.207 WHIP. His changeup and cutter were effective but he had trouble getting his four-seam fastball past hitters. Going forward, his best role is as a long reliever and spot starter. He’ll need to accept a big pay cut from his $21 million salary this offseason.
Salary comps: Michael Lorenzen 1-year, $7 million; Martin Pérez 1-year, $5 million; Aaron Civale 1-year, $8 million; Michael Soroka 1-year, $9 million; Colin Rea 1-year, $5 million
Best team fits: Reds, Pirates, Athletics, Rockies, Twins
Contract prediction: 1-year, $11 million
40. Marcell Ozuna, DH
Age: 35
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 1.6
2025 team: Atlanta Braves
Agent: CAA Sports
Injuries and age have caught up with Ozuna, as he hit just .232 with 21 home runs in 2025, a far cry from the 39 home runs he blasted in 2024 when he slashed .302/.378/.546 and finished fourth in the NL MVP voting. His bat speed has dropped each of the last three seasons and his exit velocity was only average (48th percentile) last season. Could he be a Comeback Player of the Year candidate next year? Sure, but it’s not likely, and it’s also not likely he’s with the Braves in 2026.
Salary comps: Joc Pederson 2-years, $37 million; Rhys Hoskins 2-years, $34 million; Mitch Garver 2-years, $24 million; Gary Sánchez 1-year, $8.5 million
Best team fits: Braves, Rangers
Contract prediction: 1-year, $12 million
41. Jose Quintana, LHP
Age: 36
2025 bWAR: 2.4
2025 team: Milwaukee Brewers
Agent: Wasserman Group
Quintana has put together two straight solid seasons. In 2024, he made 31 starts for the Mets, going 10-10 with a 3.75 ERA over 170 1/3 innings. He signed with the Brewers in the offseason and made 24 starts for them this year, going 11-7 with a 3.86 ERA in 131 2/3 innings. He has the guile to continue as a solid back-of-the-rotation starter despite not missing many bats and walking too many hitters. He might have one more year left in the tank as a fifth- or spot-starter type.
Salary comps: Quintana’s last contract, 1-year, $4 million
Best team fits: Brewers
Contract prediction: 1-year, $5 million
Drew Pomeranz revived his career with the Cubs. (Geoff Stellfox / Getty Images)
42. Drew Pomeranz, LHP
Age: 37
2025 bWAR: 0.9
2025 team: Seattle Mariners/Chicago Cubs
Agent: CAA Sports
After beginning the season in the Mariners’ farm system, Pomeranz was traded to the Cubs for cash in April. He then was promoted to the big leagues and appeared in 57 games for Chicago, posting a 3.01 FIP with 10.5 K/9 and an ERA+ of 178. He made six appearances for the Cubs in the postseason, allowing one run in six innings. This season was his first pitching in the big leagues since 2021. His fastball run value ranked in the 85th percentile and his strikeout percentage was in the 84th percentile. Batters hit just .207 against his four-seam fastball and .220 against his knuckle curveball.
Salary comps: Kyle Finnegan 1-year, $6 million; Chris Martin 1-year, $5 million; Ryne Stanek 1-year, $4.5 million; Jakob Junis 1-year, $4.5 million
Best team fits: Cubs, Padres
Contract prediction: 1-year, $5 million
43. Jack Flaherty, RHP
Age: 30
2025 bWAR: 0.9
2025 team: Detroit Tigers
Agent: CAA Sports
Flaherty made 31 starts for the Tigers this year, punching out 188 batters — the third most in his career. His 4.64 ERA is misleading based on how well he actually pitched; in my view, his 3.85 FIP was a better barometer of his performance. His knuckle curve was his most effective pitch and the slider was also a weapon. Due to Flaherty’s injury history, the medical risk assessments will determine what type of contract offers he receives on the open market.
Salary comps: Matthew Boyd 2-years, $29 million; Germán Márquez 2-years, $20 million; Tyler Mahle 2-years, $22 million
Best team fits: Tigers, Angels, Brewers
Contract prediction: 2-years, $22 million
44. Brandon Woodruff, RHP
Age: 32
2025 bWAR: 1.3
2025 team: Milwaukee Brewers
Agent: McKinnis Sports Management
Woodruff missed all of the 2024 season and part of this year after undergoing shoulder surgery in October 2023. He made his 2025 debut in July and became a legitimate contender for Comeback Player of the Year with 12 strong starts (3.20 ERA, 0.912 WHIP). However, a right lat strain in late September forced him to miss the playoffs. Obviously, the medical risk assessment will determine what types of offers he gets in free agency, but if healthy, he could be one of the best value signings in free agency.
Salary comps: Matthew Boyd 2-years, $29 million; Germán Márquez 2-years, $20 million; Tyler Mahle 2-years, $22 million
Best team fits: Brewers, Rangers
Contract prediction: 2-years, $22 million
45. Kyle Finnegan, RHP
Age: 34
2025 bWAR: 1.0
2025 team: Washington Nationals/Detroit Tigers
Agent: The L. Warner Companies
Finnegan was a free agent last winter after saving 88 games in his first five seasons in the majors with the Nationals, but was disappointed when the best offer came late, a one-year, $5.38 million deal from Washington. He lived up to that contract and more before being traded to the Tigers, which led to his first postseason opportunity. He saved 24 games during the regular season between the Tigers and Nationals and was at his best with Detroit down the stretch (1.50 ERA in 16 appearances).
Salary comps: Tommy Kahnle 1-year, $7.75 million; Kyle Finnegan’s last contract 1-year, $5.38 million; Gregory Soto 1-year, $5.35 million; Matt Strahm 1-year, $7.5 million; Paul Sewald 1-year, $7 million
Best team fits: Tigers, Cardinals, Marlins, Rays
Contract prediction: 1-year, $6.25 million
46. Adrian Houser, RHP
Age: 32
2025 bWAR: 3.3
2025 team: Chicago White Sox/Tampa Bay Rays
Agent: BBI Sports Group
Houser started the year with the White Sox, going 6-2 with a 2.10 ERA over 11 starts before being moved at the trade deadline to the Rays, where he then posted a 4.79 ERA over 10 starts. He has an above-average fastball and generates a high ground-ball rate, avoiding the barrel. He also has well-above-average extension. Houser profiles as a back-of-the-rotation innings-eater.
Salary comps: Zack Littell 1-year, $5.720 million; Griffin Canning 1-year, $4.25 million; Colin Rea 1-year, $4.250 million; Martin Pérez 1-year, $3.5 million; Kyle Hendricks 1-year, $2.5 million
Best team fits: Rays, Angels, Athletics, Rockies, White Sox
Contract prediction: 1-year, $4 million
47. Miguel Andujar, 3B/OF
Age: 30
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 0.8
2025 team: Athletics/Cincinnati Reds
Agent: CAA Sports
Andujar has finally found his best role — as a platoon left fielder and pinch hitter against left-handed pitching. He slashed .389/.409/.578 against left-handed pitchers in 2025. In a season split between the A’s and Reds, he belted 17 doubles and 10 home runs over 321 at-bats, and he hit .359 in 110 at-bats with the Reds after the trade.
Salary comps: Harrison Bader 1-year, $5.25 million; Austin Hayes 1-year, $4.1 million; Tommy Pham 1-year, $4.025 million
Best team fits: Reds, Phillies, Rockies
Contract prediction: 1-year, $5.5 million
48. Mike Yastrzemski, OF
Age: 35
Bats: L Throws: L
2025 bWAR: 2.7
2025 team: San Francisco Giants/Kansas City Royals
Agent: Jack Toffey
Yastrzemski hit .231 with eight homers in 96 games for the Giants before being dealt to the Royals at the trade deadline. He hit .237 with for Kansas City, but showed significantly more power, raising his slugging percentage from .355 pre-trade to .403 by the end of the season. He’s always controlled the strike zone well, and he walked more than he struck out in his 50 games with Kansas City. Yastrzemski’s best role at this point in his career is as a fourth outfielder or platoon starter versus right-handed pitching.
Contract comps: Kiké Hernandez 1-year, $6.5 million; Andrew Vaughn 1-year, $5.85 million; Harrison Bader 1-year, $5.25 million
Best team fits: Royals
Contract prediction: 1-year, $6 million
49. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B/DH
Age: 38
Bats: R Throws: R
2025 bWAR: 1.2
2025 team: New York Yankees
Agent: Excel Sports Management
Goldschmidt held his own in 2025, slashing .274/.328/.403 with 31 doubles, 10 homers and 45 RBIs in 145 games for the Yankees. Age and decline have caught up with him but he should have another year or two left, especially if he accepts a job as a platoon player, which is his best role at this point in his career.
Contract comps: Paul Goldschmidt’s last contract, 1-year, $12 million; Yandy Díaz 1-year, $10 million; Josh Bell 1-year, $6 million
Best team fits: Diamondbacks
Contract prediction: 1-year, $10 million
50. Cedric Mullins, CF
Age: 31
Bats: L Throws: L
2025 bWAR: 0.4
2025 team: Baltimore Orioles/New York Mets
Agent: Cope Sports Management
Mullins has played himself off being an everyday center fielder despite still being an above-average defender thanks to his plus range. He’s still at 15-homer, 15-stolen base type talent, but he’s not hit .235 or above in the last three years. I don’t see him getting an everyday job anymore, but he would be a quality fourth-type outfielder on a contending team.
Contract comps: Lane Thomas 1-year, $7.825 million; Trent Grisham 1-year, $5.25 million; Brandon Marsh 1-year, $3 million
Best team fits: Phillies, Yankees, Guardians, Royals
Contract prediction: 1-year, $8 million