MLB free agency may still be a couple of months away but it’s not too early to discuss some key free agents. The season is winding down and the playoffs are a month away.
Last season’s market was slow with some good players left unsigned during spring training. This year’s free agent class features highly prolific names that many clubs will covet. Here are some free agents that could impact the hot stove season, creating the market for others.
Free Agency Preview
Standard code Embed from Getty ImagesJuan Soto is considered the biggest name on the market this year. It’s rare for a player of his caliber to hit the free agent market as he can hit and play defense at a high-caliber level. The Yankees could decide to give him a big deal to stay in New York. Plenty of other teams will be interested, but not many teams will be able to afford a big contract and violate the luxury tax. His other potential fits include the Mets, Giants, and Rangers.
Another star hitting free agency is Mets star Pete Alonso. He is one of the better players hitting the market that could provide a team with reliable power and good glove work at first base. The potential fits for Alonso are the Astros and Cardinals. Willy Adames should get plenty of attention also as he remains a solid fielder and is a reliable hitter. He could be a good fit for a team looking for a solid player with a cheaper price tag. The teams that are the best option for him include Blue Jays, Giants, and Dodgers.
Free Agent Pitchers
Standard code Embed from Getty ImagesThere are some nice options for teams looking to pitch. Corbin Burnes is the best pitcher on the market. The Baltimore Orioles ace was a workhorse in 2024 and is headed for his fifth straight top-five CY Young Award finish. He is still young and could provide reliability for many teams, but he will be a bit pricey. Teams like the Red Sox and Mets could be the best fits.
Another pitcher available could be Blake Snell who will get plenty of attention. He has a 1.03 ERA and a no-hitter in the last nine starts. He has been one of the best pitchers since 2019. The potential fits for the veteran ace are the Rangers and Mets. Max Fried is one of the top available starting pitchers this winter. He has a 3.62 Ear which is the highest since 2019 and he still has a lot of talent to give a team. The Rockies, Cubs, and Rangers should consider him.
Free agency can be a risk for many teams especially if a lot of money is involved. Also, the last few years have not been as productive as in years past. Teams want to spend less money and use their young minor-league talent. Therefore, seeing where these players go and how it affects the free agent market will be interesting. Stay tuned for MLB news and stories.
Featured Image: Icon Sports Wire via Getty Images
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