Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Spring has sprung, but these MLB free agents still need contracts

World Series Anthony Rizzo remains unsigned.

Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Spring training is well underway, yet several notable MLB free agents remain unsigned.

A few interesting position players/hitters are still free agents: Verdugo, Rizzo, Iglesias, JD Martinez, McCann, Peralta, Merrifield, Grossman Carpenter
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 24, 2025

Alex Verdugo

Alex Verdugo, a ‘key’ or maybe ‘forced into the team by the captain’ player in the New York Yankees’ postseason push, finds himself in an uncertain position this offseason. The Kansas City Royals have been floated as a potential landing spot, given their unresolved left-field situation. Whether Verdugo is the answer to that, only time will tell.

MJ Melendez struggled last season, and while Verdugo didn’t have an outstanding year himself – hitting .233 with a career-low 0.8 WAR – he remains a viable option for a team needing outfield stability. The Royals open their season against the Cleveland Guardians on March 27, and adding Verdugo could help solidify their lineup. At 29, he still has time to rebound and provide value as a consistent bat, at least a contact bat – something he’s held a reputation for, and a solid defender.

Jose Iglesias

The New York Mets recently lost Nick Madrigal to a shoulder injury, disrupting their plans for a utility infielder. While they are expected to rely on internal options, veteran shortstop Jose Iglesias remains available.

José Iglesias just performed 'OMG' at Citi Field after the Mets win pic.twitter.com/WtwzeyyCWV
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) June 29, 2024

Iglesias had a strong stint with the Mets last year, hitting .337 with four home runs in 85 games. He also became a fan favorite with his walk-up song “OMG,” which became a clubhouse anthem. However, signing Iglesias to a major league deal would mean they couldn’t send him to the minors, limiting roster flexibility. If the Mets choose to reinforce their infield, Iglesias could be a logical addition.

Anthony Rizzo

Anthony Rizzo, a three-time All-Star and former World Series champion, is still without a team. The 35-year-old first baseman struggled in recent seasons due to injuries and declining power, posting a .237/.315/.358 slash line in 2024.

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While Rizzo remains a respected clubhouse presence, teams seem hesitant to commit to him unless he can prove he’s capable of bouncing back. He has expressed frustration with the market, particularly with teams offering deals near the league minimum. Rizzo is staying in shape and waiting for an opportunity, but unless a team takes a flier, he may be forced to consider retirement.

J.D. Martinez

Despite being one of the most accomplished hitters available, J.D. Martinez has barely been mentioned in free agency rumors. The 36-year-old slugger, who has consistently been a power threat, now faces uncertainty after struggling to find a team last season.

With teams increasingly prioritizing positional flexibility, Martinez’s limited defensive ability as a designated hitter may be a factor. However, several clubs – including the Toronto Blue Jays, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Miami Marlins – could use a veteran right-handed bat. If Martinez is willing to be patient, he should eventually find a home.

James McCann

The San Francisco Giants have a strong starting catcher in Patrick Bailey, but their backup options remain uncertain. With Tom Murphy battling injuries, San Francisco may need to look outside the organization, and James McCann is an intriguing option.

McCann, 34, is a solid defensive catcher with playoff experience. While his offensive numbers have declined, he still offers leadership and reliability behind the plate. Given the Giants’ lack of depth, adding McCann on a short-term deal could be a smart move.

David Peralta

David Peralta may not be a power hitter anymore, but the 37-year-old outfielder can still contribute at the plate. In 91 games with the San Diego Padres last season, he hit .267 with eight home runs and a .750 OPS – his highest since 2020.

While he might not get a guaranteed major league deal, teams in need of outfield depth – such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Tampa Bay Rays, or Chicago White Sox – could find value in signing him. Even on a minor league deal, Peralta has the potential to earn a roster spot with his veteran presence and solid hitting.

Whit Merrifield

The Yankees have been linked to various infielders, and Whit Merrifield remains an option if they want an experienced second baseman. Although his offensive production dipped in 2024 (.625 OPS), he still offers value with his speed and versatility.

At 36, Merrifield isn’t the impact player he once was, but for a projected two-year, $3.5 million contract, he could be a low-risk depth piece. If the Yankees decide to bolster their infield, Merrifield could provide insurance at multiple positions.

Alex Verdugo

Anthony Rizzo

MLB

MLB Free Agents

Mohsin Baldiwala

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Mohsin Baldiwala is a Master’s student in Journalism and freelance content producer who got hooked on baseball through Seinfeld’s hapless George Costanza. The same reason why he’s a Yankees fan. He writes about sports because he believes it can offer a brief escape from the world’s chaos. Even if that means enduring the heartbreak of the 2024 World Series.