The Milwaukee Brewers have just celebrated their World Series victory, and with that, MLB free agency is officially underway. As teams prepare for the incoming roster shifts, the urgency to secure impactful players is palpable—particularly with a lockout looming on December 1. The upcoming offseason promises intrigue as teams look to sign talent before potential new CBA restrictions reshape the landscape.
This offseason's free agent class may not be the most star-studded, yet there is a wealth of quality players available. Many teams are eager to enhance their rosters, making for an exciting trading period as negotiations begin. Let's look at the top 25 free agents and where they might land.
25. Gleyber Torres, INF
Potential Teams: Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates, Oakland Athletics
Gleyber Torres has proven to be a steady bat, consistently posting an OPS above .700 for five consecutive seasons. While his defense may not dazzle, his ability to work counts and reach base makes him a valuable everyday infielder in his prime.
24. Nick Martinez, RHP
Potential Teams: Chicago White Sox, Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs
After a successful season with 31 starts and a 3.10 ERA, Nick Martinez stands out for his elite command. Although aging at 36 triggers questions about longevity outside Tampa Bay's coaching regime, his track record suggests he can deliver dependable performances for a contender.
23. Kevin Gausman, RHP
Potential Teams: San Diego Padres, Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros
Once regarded as a top-tier ace, Kevin Gausman faced challenges this past season. Nevertheless, his experience and history of durability—pitching over 170 innings for five straight years—means he still represents a solid short-term option for teams needing reliable rotation depth.
22. Ty France, 1B
Potential Teams: San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks, Cleveland Guardians
Ty France had a standout season with the Padres, contributing 21 homers and an .865 OPS. At 32, his performance suggests he could command a long-term deal, particularly with his high exit velocities and Gold Glove-caliber defense at first base.
21. Tyler Mahle, RHP
Potential Teams: Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros, San Diego Padres
Tyler Mahle had a notable turnaround after being traded, posting a 1.99 ERA in nine starts for the Braves. His sophisticated approach and knack for avoiding mistakes make him an appealing option for teams in need of a solid No. 2 starter.
20. Brandon Woodruff, RHP
Potential Teams: Milwaukee Brewers, Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres
Injuries have hampered Brandon Woodruff over the past three seasons, impacting his overall interest in the market. Yet, at his peak, Woodruff is one of the top free agent pitchers available, showcasing a strong 2.98 ERA when healthy.
19. Kaima Taira, RHP
Potential Teams: Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs
Kaima Taira stands out as a unique talent in MLB, boasting impressive velocity paired with a comprehensive pitching repertoire. His success in a different league raises questions about his fit and role, making him an intriguing prospect in free agency.
18. Trent Grisham, OF
Potential Teams: Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays, Cincinnati Reds
Despite a tumultuous season, Trent Grisham’s disciplined hitting and ability to generate swing-and-miss power may attract interest from teams looking to invest in a buy-low candidate.
17. David Bednar, RHP
Potential Teams: New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers
David Bednar has maintained his status as a top closer, earning 35 saves last season with an impressive 2.47 ERA. His reliable fastball and dominating splitter make him a prime acquisition for a team strengthening their bullpen.
16. Ian Happ, OF
Potential Teams: Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates, San Francisco Giants
With a decade of consistent production under his belt, Ian Happ's four Gold Gloves testify to his defensive prowess. However, his recent drop in performance could make potential suitors hesitant.
15. Luis Arraez, INF
Potential Teams: Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds
After a breakout season yielding a solid 4.1 fWAR, Luis Arraez is likely to be in higher demand this offseason. His impressive transformation defensively makes him a compelling target for teams seeking contact hitters.
14. Casey Mize, RHP
Potential Teams: Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves
Although Casey Mize faced challenges after his mid-season trade, he managed a respectable ERA. His youth and past All-Star status offer ample potential for teams willing to invest in his rehabilitation.
13. Adrian Morejon, LHP
Potential Teams: New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets
With a solid mix of an elite strikeout and ground ball rate, Adrian Morejon’s profile resonates with plenty of teams looking for a reliable arm—be it as a setup man or future closer.
12. Michael King, RHP
Potential Teams: San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers
After transitioning to a starting role, Michael King has produced valuable innings, demonstrating the potential for long-term security in the rotation due to his postseason experience.
11. Jake Bauers, 1B
Potential Teams: New York Mets, Arizona Diamondbacks, Texas Rangers
Once considering retirement, Jake Bauers emerged successfully, proving instrumental for the Brewers in their World Series run. His solid batting and on-base ability after a career-high season make him a sought-after player.
10. Ryan Jeffers, C
Potential Teams: New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, San Francisco Giants
Ryan Jeffers has successfully morphed into an impactful hitter among catchers, further highlighting his value at a traditionally less productive position.
9. Freddy Peralta, RHP
Potential Teams: Chicago Cubs, Baltimore Orioles, Detroit Tigers
After bouncing back during the playoffs, Freddy Peralta's postseason performance boosts his stock heading into the free agency period, despite having a tumultuous regular season.
8. Sonny Gray, RHP
Potential Teams: Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, San Diego Padres
At 34, Sonny Gray redefined expectations last season with a standout ERA. His ability to minimize hard contact enables him to remain effective, attracting interest from contenders.
7. Trevor Rogers, LHP
Potential Teams: Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres
Despite recent struggles, Trevor Rogers's potential to harness his stuff allows teams to see him as a valuable addition to their rotations moving forward.
6. Brandon Lowe, 2B
Potential Teams: Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies
Brandon Lowe played a pivotal role in the Pirates' offensive resurgence, combining defensive prowess with considerable power numbers—making him an asset at second base.
5. Teruaki Sato, 3B
Potential Teams: New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets
As the top international free agent this offseason, Teruaki Sato’s impressive offensive stats could translate well in MLB, drawing significant interest.
4. Jazz Chisholm Jr., INF
Potential Teams: San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Cincinnati Reds
Jazz Chisholm Jr. has immense talent, yet he must address inconsistencies to secure a lucrative contract this winter.
3. Randy Arozarena, OF
Potential Teams: Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers
Randy Arozarena has showcased his capabilities through a stellar season, making him an appealing multi-year option for teams in need of consistency.
2. Seiya Suzuki, OF
Potential Teams: Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers
As the most distinguished positional player in free agency, Seiya Suzuki is likely to command significant attention and a lucrative deal.
1. Shohei Ohtani, DH/LHP
One cannot ignore the significance of Shohei Ohtani, who is expected to be the crown jewel of this offseason, commanding record-setting deals across the league.
