Still available, those mlb free agent might have some suitors
The start of 2025 signals the return of Major League Baseball, and December has already seen significant moves, including the historic trade of Juan Soto to the Mets.
With Spring Training just around the corner, teams are expected to ramp up their efforts to finalize rosters for the 2025 season. Among the options available, free agents present an excellent opportunity to acquire marquee talent.
And plenty of big names are still up for grabs. Here’s a look at the top 10 free agents still on the market.
The Japanese phenom everyone is vying for. Roki Sasaki benefits from being subject to international signing rules, which means lower salaries despite his six years of service in Japan.
The young pitcher boasts impressive stats: a 2.02 ERA over the past four years. It’s no surprise that teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets have shown interest.
Among position players, Pete Alonso is arguably the most sought-after free agent. The Mets’ first baseman would be a prime addition for teams needing power at the plate.
With an average of 44 home runs per season since his MLB debut and two Home Run Derby titles, Alonso would be an ideal fit for teams like the Astros or Yankees. However, the arrival of Juan Soto to the Mets could push Alonso toward re-signing with his current team.
Bregman remains one of the league’s top third basemen, even after a slight dip in form. At 31, he’s still a reliable presence, and the Astros have hinted at a possible reunion.
That said, nothing is set in stone, and Bregman is likely to attract significant interest from other teams.
Fresh off his first All-Star selection, Anthony Santander is a valuable asset in the outfield.
A powerful hitter, Santander wrapped up the 2024 season with 44 home runs and 102 RBIs. For teams looking to bolster their lineup with a power bat, Santander is a top candidate.
After joining the Padres last year, Profar had a lot to prove—and he delivered. In 158 games, he posted 24 home runs, 85 RBIs, and an OPS of .839, earning his first All-Star selection.
Quietly, Kim has become one of the league’s best shortstops, filling the void left by Fernando Tatis Jr.
Kim’s impact on the field is undeniable, establishing himself as one of MLB’s top defenders. In San Diego, he’s also demonstrated versatility, playing shortstop, second base, and third base.
A champion this fall, Jack Flaherty enters free agency with strong credentials.
Traded from Detroit to the Dodgers at the deadline, Flaherty delivered a solid Game 1 performance in the World Series against the Yankees. With a 6-2 record in 10 starts for Los Angeles, Flaherty could anchor a rotation for years to come.
Given the importance of reliable relievers and closers, Tanner Scott is a name to watch.
With 22 saves last season between the Marlins and Padres, Scott is arguably the best bullpen arm available at this point in the offseason.
Scherzer’s retirement and eventual Hall of Fame induction may not be far off, but he can still provide value.
While no team will gamble on paying him $43 million annually again, Scherzer could still contribute effectively in a rotation—health permitting.
Like Scherzer, Justin Verlander doesn’t have much time left on an MLB mound. A future Hall of Famer, Verlander has battled injuries in recent years, raising concerns given his age.
When healthy, however, Verlander remains one of the very best in the game.
Photo Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
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nhl Global Editorial Chief of The Playoffs, I created The Free Agent, which became The Playoffs FR, in 2020 during the pandemic. A longtime fan of the four major American sports, I now oversee the editorial strategy and social media for all versions of The Playoffs. I still occasionally write about sports I’m particularly passionate about, such as the NFL or MLB. If there’s one thing you should remember: Eli Manning is the true GOAT for beating Tom Brady twice.
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