MLB free company is nearly right here so it’s time for my annual rating of the highest free brokers with contract predictions and the most effective staff matches for every participant. Eligible gamers technically develop into free brokers the day after the World Sequence ends however can not signal with a brand new staff till 5 days after the ultimate out.
This 12 months’s free-agent class will probably be headlined by Juan Soto, whom many within the business anticipate to signal a contract within the $550 million to $650 million vary. The highest of the pool might function 4 front-of-the-rotation pitchers, together with Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell, Max Fried and even perhaps Roki Sasaki, if the soon-to-be 23-year-old phenom makes it to free company. By way of place gamers, this class may have a pair of distinguished energy hitters in first baseman Pete Alonso and proper fielder Anthony Santander and a few affect two-way nook infielders in first baseman Christian Walker and third baseman Alex Bregman.
This checklist will change between now and the beginning of free company. A few of these gamers will come off the board in the event that they resolve to not choose out of their contracts or their golf equipment train choices. Some might resolve to retire. As well as, extra worldwide gamers might be a part of the eventual class. (For this rating, I’ve included any participant who might attain free company this November, even when in some circumstances that consequence is unlikely.)
Together with my colleagues at The Athletic, I will probably be actively masking free company and the commerce season from begin to end, so let’s focus on the present panorama. Right here is my rating of the highest 45 free brokers for the 2024-25 offseason, with my ideas on the gamers in addition to info from my conversations with decision-makers throughout the sport. What forms of contracts might these gamers command? These are my preliminary projections.
(Be aware: Gamers’ ages are as of Oct. 24. WAR is in response to Baseball Reference as of Oct. 24.)
1. Juan Soto, OF
Age: 25
B: L T: L HT: 6-2 WT: 225
2024 (Yankees): 7.9 WAR
Profession: 36.4 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $31 million
Has Juan Soto discovered his everlasting house with the Yankees? Can they preserve him after a robust platform 12 months? He actually lived as much as expectations in his first 12 months within the Bronx, slashing .288/.419/.569 with 41 house runs and a league-leading 128 runs scored. He’s anticipated to complete third within the American League MVP voting behind Aaron Choose and Bobby Witt Jr. He’s met the large moments on this postseason and has logged a 1.106 OPS.
By all indications, he’s poised to develop into the second-highest-paid participant in baseball historical past, behind solely Shohei Ohtani. He’s a generational expertise who will hit free company at solely 26 and may be capable to land a 15-year deal. Most executives imagine he’ll find yourself someplace between $550 million and $650 million, which is able to in all probability restrict his market to each New York groups and presumably the Blue Jays. Different groups such because the Dodgers, Phillies, Rangers and Nationals additionally might emerge for Soto.
Greatest staff matches: Yankees, Mets, Blue Jays
Wage comps: Ohtani (10 years, $700M); Mike Trout (12 years, $426M); Mookie Betts (12 years, $365M); Choose (9 years, $360M)
Contract prediction: 15 years, $622 million
2. Corbin Burnes, RHP
Age: 29
HT: 6-3 WT: 245
2024 (Orioles): 3.4 WAR
Profession: 17.2 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $15.64 million
This would be the fifth consecutive 12 months that Corbin Burnes finishes within the prime eight in Cy Younger Award voting. Burnes went 15-9 with 181 strikeouts and 1.096 WHIP in his first season within the American League after the Orioles traded for him in February. He’s pitched greater than 190 innings three years in a row and is 60-36 with a 3.19 ERA over 199 video games (138 begins) in his profession. He will probably be — and ought to be — probably the most sought-after free-agent pitcher this offseason.
Greatest staff matches: Mets, Dodgers, Pink Sox, Orioles
Wage comps: Stephen Strasburg (7 years, $245M); Jacob deGrom (5 years, $185M); Aaron Nola (7 years, $172M)
Contract prediction: 7 years, $247 million
3. Roki Sasaki, RHP
Age: 22
HT: 6-2 WT: 187
It’s unclear if Roki Sasaki’s staff in Japan, the Chiba Lotte Marines, will enable him to depart for MLB this offseason, however with the Marines out of the NPB playoffs, we must always know quickly. If he’s coming, he would be the most coveted worldwide free agent because the Dodgers, Mets, Yankees, Pink Sox and Diamondbacks all dedicated vital assets to scout him this month, together with sending prime executives to see him pitch.
How a lot groups could be prepared to supply Sasaki might rely upon his medical stories as he didn’t pitch for 2 months in the course of the 12 months due to arm troubles, which restricted him to 18 video games and 111 innings. (He pitched simply 91 innings in 2023 resulting from an indirect harm and has topped the 100-inning mark solely as soon as in his profession.)
Nonetheless, he dominated down the stretch this season, averaging 100.5 mph along with his fastball and reaching 103 mph. Since Sasaki is beneath 25, he could be topic to worldwide bonus pool restrictions; if he’s posted after this season, he’d solely be allowed to signal a minor-league contract, which is what Ohtani did with the Angels in 2017.
Greatest staff matches: Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Diamondbacks, Pink Sox
Wage comps: None
Contract prediction: Minor-league contract
4. Gerrit Cole, RHP
Age: 34
HT: 6-4 WT: 220
2024 (Yankees): 2.0 WAR
Profession: 43.3 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $36 million
Gerrit Cole will not be a free agent this offseason, however I’ve included him on this checklist as a result of he has the correct to choose out of his contract and will theoretically attain the open market. That gained’t occur although, as he’s in line to make $36 million a 12 months with the Yankees by way of 2028, which he couldn’t match in free company.
Cole spent 2 1/2 months on the injured checklist and isn’t absolutely again to his typical stage of efficiency however appears to be getting higher the extra he pitches. His four-seam fastball was at 97 mph within the seventh inning of the Yankees’ clinching win over Kansas Metropolis within the Division Sequence, with elite spin on the prime of the zone. Cole will begin Sport 1 of the World Sequence, and though I don’t anticipate him to dominate, he ought to pitch nicely sufficient to offer the Yankees an opportunity to win.
Prediction: Cole gained’t choose out of his contract
Max Fried acknowledges the followers at Truist Park. Will he be again with the Braves? (Brett Davis / Imagn Pictures)
5. Max Fried, LHP
Age: 30
HT: 6-4 WT: 190
2024 (Braves): 3.5 WAR
Profession: 24.1 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $15 million
Max Fried has a profession report of 73-36 with a 3.07 ERA and three.29 FIP. He’s made two All-Star groups, gained two Gold Glove awards and completed top-five within the Cy Younger Award voting twice. He’s made 28 to 30 begins in three of the final 4 seasons however has handled accidents, together with left forearm neuritis every of the final two years. Due to this fact, his medical stories will decide whether or not he lands a market-rate deal or has to take a lesser contract. The Braves have tried during the last a number of years to increase Fried to no avail. They’ll preserve making an attempt this offseason and wait to see how he fares out there, however they undoubtedly need him again.
Greatest staff matches: Braves, Orioles, Mets, Pink Sox
Wage comps: Aaron Nola (7 years, $172M); Carlos Rodón (6 years, $162M); Patrick Corbin (6 years, $140M); Tyler Glasnow (5 years, $136.5M)
Contract prediction: 6 years, $174 million
6. Pete Alonso, 1B
Age: 29
B: R T: R HT: 6-3 WT: 245
2024 (Mets): 2.6 WAR
Profession: 19.8 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $20.5 million
Pete Alonso’s worth spiked after he carried out this postseason within the largest moments, together with hitting three opposite-field house runs in the course of the Mets’ magical run. He’s beloved in New York and the sensation is mutual. I believe a return to the Mets is inevitable, however a number of contending groups would like to have his 40-homer bat in the course of their lineups.
Greatest staff matches: Mets, Mariners, Yankees, Nationals
Wage comps: Matt Olson (8 years, $168M); Nolan Arenado (8 years, $260M); Kris Bryant (7 years, $182M)
Contract prediction: 7 years, $204 million
7. Alex Bregman, 3B
Age: 30
B: R T: R HT: 6-0 WT: 190
2024 (Astros) 4.1 WAR
Profession: 39.6 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $20 million
Alex Bregman would love to complete his profession as an Astro, however will the group do sufficient to maintain him? Houston has a historical past in free company of claiming goodbye to its star gamers, reminiscent of Carlos Correa and George Springer, who each departed when the Astros weren’t prepared to decide to the long-term contracts they may land elsewhere.
Bregman is a confirmed chief with elite abilities in not chasing out of the strike zone. He has all of the intangibles that profitable organizations need. His market vary is well-defined — someplace between what the Giants gave Matt Chapman final month and Nolan Arenado’s contract with the Rockies/Cardinals. Astros normal supervisor Dana Brown has stated the staff will make Bregman a proposal, however will it’s near how the remainder of the business views him?
Greatest staff matches: Astros, Yankees, Nationals, Mariners, Tigers
Wage comps: Matt Chapman (6 years, $151M); Nolan Arenado (8 years, $260M); Xander Bogaerts (11 years, $280M)
Contract prediction: 7 years, $185.5 million
8. Blake Snell, LHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-4 WT: 225
2024 (Giants): 2.1 WAR
Profession: 23.4 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $32 million
Snell was in search of a long-term contract final offseason, however most executives had been involved about his observe report, which incorporates making 30 or extra begins solely twice in a nine-year profession and by no means pitching greater than 180 2/3 innings in a season. Nonetheless, within the two years he did make 30 begins (2018, 2023), he gained a Cy Younger Award each occasions.
This 12 months he handled accidents early however carried out nicely after returning in July; he completed with a 3.12 ERA and a couple of.43 FIP over 20 begins. Snell will pitch at age 32 subsequent 12 months and I believe his lack of sturdiness — he’s pitched greater than 130 innings in a season solely as soon as since 2018 — will once more stop him from getting a long-term contract. Nonetheless, after opting out of his $30 million participant possibility, he’ll be capable to signal a greater deal.
Greatest staff matches: Yankees, Orioles, Mets, Braves, Giants
Wage comps: Aaron Nola (7 years, $172M); Carlos Rodón (6 years, $162M); Patrick Corbin (6 years, $140M); Tyler Glasnow (5 years, $136.5M); José Berríos (7 years, $131M); Sonny Grey (3 years, $75M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $105 million
9. Freddy Peralta, RHP
Age: 28
HT: 6-0 WT: 202
2024 (Brewers): 2.6 WAR
Profession: 8.9 WAR
Agent: Rep 1 Baseball 2024 wage: $5.7 million
Freddy Peralta won’t make it to free company however I’ll embrace him on this checklist till the Brewers train their $8 million staff possibility for 2025. Peralta pitched to a 3.68 ERA over 32 begins this season, with 200 strikeouts in 173 2/3 innings. Milwaukee additionally holds an $8 million staff possibility for 2026.
Prediction: Brewers will train $8 million staff possibility for 2025
Anthony Santander hit 44 homers, ending behind solely Aaron Choose and Shohei Ohtani on the major-league leaderboard. (Tommy Gilligan / Imagn Pictures)
10. Anthony Santander, RF
Age: 30
B: B T: R HT: 6-2 WT: 230
2024 (Orioles): 2.9 WAR
Profession: 11.1 WAR
Agent: GSE Worldwide 2024 wage: $11.7 million
Plenty of groups are in search of nook outfielders with energy and there gained’t be a whole lot of these gamers out there through free company or trades. This season Santander had 44 house runs, 102 RBIs and 91 runs scored, all of which had been profession highs. He’s hit 105 homers over the previous three seasons and remains to be solely 30.
Greatest staff matches: Orioles, Nationals, Reds, Blue Jays, Mariners
Wage comps: Brandon Nimmo (8 years, $162M); George Springer (6 years, $150M)
Contract prediction: 7 years, $150.5 million
11. Willy Adames, SS
Age: 29
B: R T: R HT: 6-1 WT: 219
2024 (Brewers): 3.1 WAR
Profession: 21.5
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $12.25 million
I anticipated Willy Adames to be traded to the Dodgers after Corey Seager departed as a free agent in 2021, nevertheless it by no means occurred as a result of the Brewers remained a contender and by no means made him out there. With Adames now reaching free company, the Dodgers ought to be seen as heavy favorites to land him. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman had Adames in his group for a few years when he was GM of the Rays and has at all times been an enormous fan of the participant. Adames is an ideal match for the left facet of the Dodgers’ infield.
Greatest staff matches: Dodgers, Brewers, Braves
Wage comps: Dansby Swanson (7 years, $177M); Javier Báez (6 years, $140M); Trevor Story (6 years, $140M)
Contract prediction: 6 years, $150 million
12. Marcell Ozuna, DH
Age: 33
B: R T: R HT: 6-1 WT: 225
2024 (Braves): 4.3 WAR
Profession: 27.7 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $18 million
Marcell Ozuna was the Braves’ greatest offensive participant this season, slashing .302/.378/.546 with 31 doubles and 39 house runs, and was the league’s second-best designated hitter behind Ohtani. The Braves maintain a membership possibility for $16 million for 2025 they usually’re anticipated to train it, which is able to take away Ozuna from my subsequent rating.
Prediction: Braves will train $16 million membership possibility for 2025
13. Christian Walker, 1B
Age: 33
B: R T: R HT: 6-0 WT: 208
2024 (Diamondbacks): 2.6
Profession: 15.1 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $10.9 million
Christian Walker is among the greatest first basemen within the sport. Regardless of his years of manufacturing, he’s by no means made an All-Star staff; I believed he was the largest All-Star snub this summer time. The 2-time Gold Glove Award winner is in line to win his third after main NL first basemen in outs above common.
Regardless of lacking greater than a month with an indirect harm, he completed the season with 26 house runs and 84 RBIs in 130 video games. It was the third 12 months in a row he’s hit no less than 25 bombs and posted an OPS+ over 120. A number of groups have early curiosity in Walker, with the Astros and Mariners being the most effective early staff matches.
Greatest staff matches: Astros, Mariners, Diamondbacks, Yankees, Mets
Wage comps: Paul Goldschmidt (5 years, $130M); Anthony Rizzo (2 years, $40M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $72 million
14. Cody Bellinger, CF
Age: 29
B: L T: L HT: 6-4 WT: 203
2024 (Cubs): 2.2 WAR
Profession: 24.5 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $30 million
Cody Bellinger didn’t get the long-term deal he sought final offseason and once more will in all probability should take a shorter-term cope with a better common annual worth if he opts out of his three-year deal. The rationale: He’s hit 20 or extra house runs solely as soon as in 5 years and his manufacturing varies dramatically from 12 months to 12 months.
Bellinger has gained an MVP, a Rookie of the Yr, two Silver Slugger awards, a Gold Glove Award and has been an All-Star twice in his eight-year profession. Nonetheless, his slash line over the previous three seasons has been a curler coaster journey, which makes it troublesome for groups to evaluate which model they’d be getting within the coming years. Bellinger’s skill to play above-average protection in any respect three outfield positions and first base improves his market worth.
Greatest staff matches: Cubs, Mariners, Giants, Blue Jays, Angels, Astros, Pirates, Phillies, Nationals
Wage comps: Brandon Nimmo (8 years, $162M); George Springer (5 years, $150M); Paul Goldschmidt (5 years, $130M); Nick Castellanos (5 years, $100M); Kyle Schwarber (4 years, $79M)
Contract prediction: 4 years, $112 million
15. Shane Bieber, RHP
Age: 29
HT: 6-3 WT: 200
2024 (Guardians): 0.7 WAR
Profession: 17.7 WAR
Agent: Rosenhaus Sports activities Illustration 2024 wage: $13.13 million
Shane Bieber will seemingly be my choose for greatest worth signing this offseason due to his upside. The AL Cy Younger Award winner in 2020, he completed fourth within the voting in 2019 and seventh in 2022. He’s a two-time All-Star and a former Gold Glove winner.
He made solely two begins this 12 months earlier than present process Tommy John surgical procedure, which is able to put him out of service till no less than subsequent summer time. Nonetheless, if he comes again wholesome, whoever indicators him may need a Cy Younger-caliber pitcher for the second half of the season.
Greatest staff matches: Dodgers, Rangers, Guardians, Padres
Wage comps: N/A. I don’t see an excellent comp for Bieber in his particular state of affairs.
Contract prediction: Low base wage with incentives for video games began and innings pitched, plus possibility years
Sean Manaea boosted his worth with a profession 12 months. (Brad Penner / Imagn Pictures)
16. Sean Manaea, LHP
Age: 32
HT: 6-5 WT: 245
2024 (Mets): 3.0 WAR
Profession: 15.1 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $14.5 million
I don’t assume there’s one other participant who elevated his free-agent worth extra this 12 months than Sean Manaea, who did so because of vital mechanical modifications that led to a crossfire-type supply. Manaea went 12-6 with a 3.47 ERA and 184 strikeouts in 181 2/3 innings. He had a .185 batting common in opposition to and 0.938 WHIP within the second half of the season, then largely pitched nicely in three of his 4 postseason outings, together with a dominant NLDS begin in opposition to the Phillies during which he allowed one run and three hits in seven innings. He has a $13.5 million participant possibility for 2025 that he’ll decline.
Greatest staff matches: Mets, Orioles, Twins
Wage comps: Hyun Jin Ryu (4 years, $80M); Eduardo Rodriguez (4 years, $80M); Sonny Grey (3 years, $75M); Chris Bassitt (3 years, $63M); Miles Mikolas (3 years, $55.75M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $68 million
17. Jack Flaherty, RHP
Age: 29
HT: 6-4 WT: 225
2024 (Tigers, Dodgers): 3.1 WAR
Profession: 13.2 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $14 million
Jack Flaherty was the most effective beginning pitcher traded on the deadline after logging a 2.95 ERA with 133 strikeouts and 19 walks in 18 begins for the Tigers, who dealt him as a result of he was an impending free agent they usually didn’t assume they had been a contender. (What a run that they had!)
The Tigers had a preliminary commerce settlement in place with the Yankees, however New York backed out of the deal over issues about his medical data. Flaherty was then traded to the Dodgers, who had no drawback with the medical threat. He delivered for the Dodgers and was their greatest starter for the remainder of the common season, going 6-2 with a 3.58 ERA in 10 begins.
He confirmed his skill to overlook bats this season with 194 strikeouts (in 162 innings), his highest whole since 2019, when he completed fourth within the NL Cy Younger Award voting. He’s solely 29. If groups aren’t involved in regards to the medical threat related along with his again points, he ought to land a three-year pact.
Greatest staff matches: Dodgers, Mets, Twins, Tigers
Wage comps: Lance McCullers Jr. (5 years, $85M); Mitch Keller (5 years, $77M); Sonny Grey (3 years, $75M); Pablo López (4 years, $73.5M); Kyle Hendricks (4 years, $55.5M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $68 million
18. Tomoyuki Sugano, RHP
Age: 35
HT: 6-1 WT: 198
Tomoyuki Sugano has gone 136-75 with a 2.45 ERA and 1,596 strikeouts in 12 NPB seasons with the Yomiuri Giants. This 12 months he logged a 1.67 ERA and 0.945 WHIP in 24 begins. He’s a two-time winner of the Sawamura Award, which in Japan is equal to the Cy Younger Award. Sugano has a six-pitch combine and he kilos the strike zone with elite command and management.
Greatest staff matches: Padres, Rangers, Dodgers, Orioles, Guardians, Mets
Wage comps: N/A
Contract prediction: None at the moment
19. Michael Wacha, RHP
Age: 33
HT: 6-6 WT: 215
2024 (Royals): 3.5 WAR
Profession: 16.6 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $16 million
Michael Wacha has been excellent and constant over the previous three years, posting ERAs between 3.22 and three.35 with double-digit wins every season, all whereas pitching on short-term contracts. His downward airplane and changeup (.169 batting common in opposition to) are particular. He ranked within the 99th percentile in offspeed run worth and within the 92nd percentile in hard-hit charge. Wacha has a $16 million participant possibility for 2025 that I anticipate he’ll decline so he can enter free company and land a multiyear contract.
Greatest staff matches: Royals, Pirates, Orioles, Twins, Tigers
Wage comps: Jameson Taillon (4 years, $68M); Miles Mikolas (3 years, $55.75M); Jon Grey (4 years, $56M); Chris Bassitt (3 years, $63M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $54 million
20. Nathan Eovaldi, RHP
Age: 34
HT: 6-2 WT: 217
2024 (Rangers): 2.2 WAR
Profession: 21.0 WAR
Agent: ACES 2024 wage: $16 million ($20 million participant possibility for 2025)
Nathan Eovaldi had a 3.80 ERA over 29 begins and recorded 12 wins for the second consecutive season with the Rangers. He’s anticipated to choose out of his contract, which was set to pay him $20 million in 2025, and as an alternative will obtain a $2 million buyout. I believe he’ll get a two-year contract in free company. Each contending staff ought to be all in favour of him.
Greatest staff matches: Rangers, Pink Sox, Orioles, Padres
Wage comps: Sonny Grey (3 years, $75M); Blake Snell (2 years, $62M); Seth Lugo (3 years, $45M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $42 million with a staff possibility
Teoscar Hernández posted a 137 OPS+, his highest mark in a full season. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea / Imagn Pictures)
21. Teoscar Hernández, LF
Age: 32
B: R T: R HT: 6-2 WT: 215
2024 (Dodgers): 4.3 WAR
Profession: 17.1 WAR
Agent: Republik Sports activities 2024 wage: $23.5 million
Teoscar Hernández made a wise transfer final offseason in signing with the Dodgers. He accepted a one-year cope with a excessive AAV and bought to affix a loaded lineup full of future Corridor of Famers. Hernández then did what he does greatest — hit house runs, a career-high 33 of them, to go along with 99 RBIs. He’s a below-average defender in left discipline however a robust clubhouse presence along with his vitality and enthusiasm.
Greatest staff match: Dodgers, Nationals, Tigers, Royals
Wage comps: George Springer (6 years, $150M); Nick Castellanos (5 years, $100M); Starling Marte (4 years, $78M); Jorge Soler (3 years, $42M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $75 million
22. Walker Buehler, RHP
Age: 30
HT: 6-2 WT: 185
2024 (Dodgers): -1.3 WAR
Profession: 12.2 WAR
Agent: Excel Sports activities Administration 2024 wage: $8.025 million
The way in which Walker Buehler pitched for a lot of the common season (1-6, 5.38 ERA), it didn’t seem he would regain his previous type after coming back from a second Tommy John surgical procedure. However he made an enormous impression in Sport 3 of the NLCS, when he dominated the Mets over 4 shutout innings. Buehler will in all probability should signal a one-year contract with a mutual possibility, then present he can pitch a full season wholesome and rebuild his worth.
Greatest staff match: Dodgers
Wage comps: None
Contract prediction: 1 12 months, $10 million with incentives
23. Tanner Scott, LHP
Age: 30
HT: 6-0 WT: 235
2024 (Marlins, Padres): 3.9 WAR
Profession: 8.6 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports activities Group 2024 wage: $5.7 million
Tanner Scott would be the greatest left-handed high-leverage reliever on the free-agent market. He will be deployed at any time and in any position — nearer, arrange, match up — to get left- or right-handed hitters out. He had a banner 12 months, registering a 1.75 ERA in 72 appearances with 22 saves. Batters hit .134 in opposition to his four-seam fastball and .231 in opposition to his wipeout slider.
Greatest staff matches: Padres, Orioles, Rangers, Tigers, Royals, Nationals, Giants
Wage comps: Raisel Iglesias (4 years, $58M); Robert Suarez (5 years, $46M)
Contract prediction: 4 years, $60 million
24. Jurickson Profar, LF
Age: 31
B: B T: R HT: 6-0 WT: 184
2024 (Padres): 3.7 WAR
Profession: 8.5 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports activities Group 2024 wage: $1 million
Jurickson Profar was probably the greatest worth signings of the 2023-24 offseason. He inked a one-year contract with the Padres for a base wage of $1 million, then had a profession 12 months, ending second within the NL with a .380 on-base proportion. He hit .280 with 24 house runs, 29 doubles and 10 stolen bases. He additionally made his first All-Star staff. A multiyear deal awaits.
Greatest staff matches: Padres, Twins
Wage comps: Mitch Haniger (3 years, $43.5M); Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (3 years, $42M); Michael Conforto (2 years, $36M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $44 million
25. Eugenio Suárez, 3B
Age: 33
B: R T: R HT: 5-11 WT: 213
2024 (Diamondbacks) 3.1 WAR
Profession: 23.6 WAR
Agent: Octagon 2024 wage: $11.285 million
The Diamondbacks acquired Eugenio Suárez from Seattle final offseason in hopes of bettering their energy. Suárez actually delivered with 30 house runs and 100 RBIs. He completed within the 96th percentile in candy spot proportion and performed strong protection on the sizzling nook, ending within the 82nd percentile in vary (outs above common). The Diamondbacks maintain a $15 million possibility for 2025 ($2 million buyout) that they’ll seemingly choose up.
Greatest staff matches: Diamondbacks, Blue Jays
Wage comps: Matt Chapman (6 years, $151M); Chris Taylor (4 years, $60M); Max Muncy (2 years, $24M)
Contract prediction: Diamondbacks train $15 million staff possibility for 2025
26. Jordan Montgomery, LHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-6 WT: 228
Warfare: -1.4
Profession: 11.2 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 wage: $25 million
Jordan Montgomery ended up being the worst free-agent signing of final 12 months’s class. He turned down a four-year supply from the Pink Sox, as an alternative agreeing to a one-year, $25 million cope with the Diamondbacks that included a $22.5 million participant possibility for 2025. He had a disastrous 12 months.
He went 8-7 with a 6.23 ERA and averaged simply 6.4 strikeouts per 9 innings, the worst charge of his eight-year profession. Diamondbacks proprietor Ken Kendrick publicly stated he hopes Montgomery doesn’t train his participant possibility, however the lefty has little alternative as no staff would supply him the same contract in free company this offseason.
Greatest staff matches: Orioles, Pink Sox, Tigers, Twins, Nationals
Wage comps: None
Prediction: Montgomery workout routines 22.5 million participant possibility after which the Diamondbacks attempt to commerce him
27. Ha-Seong Kim, SS
Age: 28
B: R T: R HT: 5-9 WT: 168
2024 (Padres): 2.6 WAR
Profession: 15.3 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $8 million
Ha-Seong Kim underwent season-ending shoulder surgical procedure in September to restore a “small tear” within the labrum of his proper (throwing) shoulder. He sustained the harm Aug. 18 whereas diving again to first base on a pick-off play. This season supervisor Mike Shildt moved Kim from second base, the place he gained a Gold Glove Award final 12 months, to shortstop, which was a big defensive improve for the Padres. Nonetheless, Kim hit simply .233 with 11 house runs and 22 stolen bases earlier than occurring the injured checklist. He may need to signal a “pillow contract” to indicate he’s recovered from the harm, then produce like he did in 2023, when he hit 17 house runs and stole 38 bases.
Greatest staff matches: Padres, Brewers, Dodgers, Pirates
Wage comps: J.P. Crawford (5 years, $51M); Jeff McNeil (4 years, $50M); Nico Hoerner (3 years, $35M); Orlando Arcia (3 years, $7.3M)
Contract prediction: 1 12 months, $10 million with incentives and award bonuses
28. Gleyber Torres, 2B
Age: 27
B: R T: R HT: 6-1 WT: 205
2024 (Yankees): 1.8 WAR
Profession: 16.1 WAR
Agent: Octagon 2024 wage: $14.2 million
Gleyber Torres has wished to signal a long-term contract with the Yankees however there have by no means been critical negotiations to maintain him within the Bronx for years to return. He’s a below-average defender at second base with restricted vary. He hit .257 with 15 house runs and a 101 OPS+ on the season however batted over .300 when he was moved to the leadoff spot in September and has carried out in October, slashing .297/.400/.432 within the playoffs.
Greatest staff matches: Yankees, Mariners, Blue Jays, Marlins
Wage comps: Jeff McNeil (4 years, $50M); Nico Hoerner (3 years, $35M); J.P. Crawford (5 years, $51M)
Contract prediction: 4 years, $44 million
Tyler O’Neill is coming off his greatest season since 2021. (Bob DeChiara / Imagn Pictures)
29. Tyler O’Neill, OF
Age: 29
B: R T: R HT: 5-11 WT: 200
2024 (Pink Sox): 2.7 WAR
Profession: 12.6
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $5.85 million
Tyler O’Neill is like Blake Snell and Cody Bellinger — when he can keep wholesome and play as much as his potential, he delivers. This 12 months he slashed .241/.336/.511 with 31 house runs in 113 video games. Nonetheless, it was solely the second considerably wholesome profitable season of his seven-year profession — his final one was in 2021 when he hit 34 house runs with the Cardinals, completed eighth in NL MVP voting and gained his second Gold Glove Award.
O’Neill had a number of stints on the injured checklist this 12 months and has performed greater than 100 video games solely twice. Regardless of coming off a productive season, that lack of availability will drive him to signal one other short-term contract.
Greatest staff match: Pink Sox
Wage comps: Starling Marte (4 years, $78M); Andrew Benintendi (5 years, $75M); Ian Happ (3 years, $61M); Jorge Soler (3 years, 42M); Michael Conforto (2 years, $36M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $32 million
30. Yusei Kikuchi, LHP
Age: 33
HT: 6-0 WT: 210
2024 (Blue Jays, Astros): 1.4 WAR
Profession: 4.1
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $10 million
Yusei Kikuchi was 4-9 with a 4.75 ERA over 22 begins with the Blue Jays, who dealt him to Houston on the commerce deadline. The Astros shortly modified his pitch sequencing and utilization and the outcomes had been astounding — he went 5-1 with a 2.70 ERA and three.07 FIP over 10 begins (60 innings). Kikuchi could be sensible to re-sign with the Astros and the sensation ought to be mutual primarily based on his outcomes and the prospect bundle they traded to land him.
Greatest staff matches: Astros, Orioles, Tigers, Twins
Wage comps: Chris Bassitt (3 years, $63.3 million; Miles Mikolas (3 years $55.75M); Seth Lugo (3 years; $45M); Tyler Anderson (3 years; $39M); Nathan Eovaldi (2 years, $34M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $42 million
31. Brandon Lowe, 2B
Age: 30
B: L T: R HT: 5-10 WT: 185
2024 (Rays): 2.4 WAR
Profession: 16.0 WAR
Agent: The Bledsoe Company 2024 wage: $8.75 million
Brandon Lowe is one other participant who simply can’t keep off the injured checklist; he’s performed greater than 110 video games simply as soon as in his seven-year profession and has averaged 108 video games during the last two years. Nonetheless, his energy has been constant throughout that span as he hit 21 homers in each years.
He’s solely 30, and if he can keep wholesome, his energy performs, because it did in 2021 when he hit 39 house runs. He completed within the prime 10 in AL MVP voting in 2020 and 2021 so there’s no denying his potential.
Tampa Bay holds a $10.5 million staff possibility for 2025 ($1 million buyout) and an $11.5 million possibility ($500,000 buyout) for 2026. The Rays might actually choose up the choice, but when they don’t, Lowe may very well be a wise high-risk, high-reward sort signing this winter.
Greatest staff matches: Rays, Yankees, Mariners, White Sox, Blue Jays
Wage comps: Jeff McNeil (4 years, $50M); Brandon Drury (2 years, $17M); Jorge Polanco (5 years, $25.75M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $24 million
32. Nick Martinez, RHP
Age: 34
HT: 6-1 WT: 201
2024 (Reds) Warfare: 4.0 WAR
Profession: 8.7 WAR
Agent: RMG Baseball 2024 wage: $14 million
Nick Martinez continues to enhance and may land a three-year contract as a free agent this winter. He’s coming off a career-best 12 months after going 10-7 with a 3.10 ERA in 16 begins and 26 aid appearances. Martinez hopes to develop into a full-time starter along with his subsequent staff and he deserves that chance. He has posted an ERA under 3.50 in every of the previous three seasons.
Greatest staff matches: Reds, Padres, Tigers, Orioles, Twins, Pink Sox
Wage comps: Seth Lugo (3 years, $45M); Tyler Anderson (3 years, $39M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $40 million
33. Charlie Morton, RHP
Age: 40
HT: 6-5 WT: 214
2024 (Braves): 1.1 WAR
Profession: 17.3 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 wage: $20 million
Charlie Morton is Mr. Consistency. In 2024 he reached the 30-starts mark for the sixth straight season. He posted a 4.19 ERA with 9.1 strikeouts per 9 innings. He’s weighed retirement in latest offseasons, will flip 41 in November and regardless of one other strong season, the consensus across the Braves is that he’ll name it a profession. But when he decides to return for his 18th major-league season, a one-year contract with Atlanta just like his latest offers might work for either side.
Greatest staff match: Braves
Wage comps: Frankie Montas, (1 12 months, $16M)
Contract prediction: 1 12 months, $20 million
34. Joc Pederson, OF/DH
Age: 32
B: L T: L HT: 6-1 WT: 220
2024 (Diamondbacks): 2.9 WAR
Profession: 15.1 WAR
Agent: Excel Sports activities Administration 2024 wage: $12.5 million
Joc Pederson embraces his platoon position, excelling in opposition to right-handed pitching with a powerful .275/.392/.531 slash line and 22 homers in 407 plate appearances this season with the Diamondbacks. He has a $14 million mutual possibility for 2025 with a $3 million buyout, and I believe it is sensible for him to take the buyout and attempt to signal a two-year deal on the open market.
Greatest staff match: Diamondbacks, Reds, Rockies
Wage comps: Rhys Hoskins (2 years, $34M); Mitch Garver (2 years, $24M); Justin Turner (1 12 months, $13M); J.D. Martinez (1 12 months, $12M); Charlie Blackmon (1 12 months, $13M
Contract prediction: 2 years, $26 million
Carlos Estévez (Gregory Fisher / Imagn Pictures)
35. Carlos Estévez, RHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-6 WT: 275
2024 (Angels, Phillies): 2.1 WAR
Profession: 4.8 WAR
Agent: Premier Expertise Sports activities and Leisure 2024 wage: $6.75 million
Carlos Estévez had a robust free-agent stroll 12 months, posting a 2.38 ERA with the Angels earlier than being traded on the deadline to Philadelphia, the place he put up a 2.57 ERA over 20 video games. He completed the season with 26 saves and 0.909 WHIP, but in addition averaged 7.7 strikeouts per 9 innings, the bottom charge of his profession.
Estévez has 82 profession saves and can generate loads of curiosity from groups in search of high-leverage relievers. Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has stated it’s unlikely the membership will carry again each Estévez and Jeff Hoffman, who’s ranked forty third on this checklist.
Greatest staff matches: Phillies, Orioles, Pink Sox, Blue Jays, Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Pirates
Wage comps: Kendall Graveman (3 years, $24M); José Alvarado (3 years, $22M); Joe Jiménez (3 years, $26M); Ryan Pressly (2 years, $30M); Taylor Rogers (3 years, $33M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $33 million
36. Luis Severino, RHP
Age: 30
HT: 6-2 WT: 218
2024 (Mets): 1.6 WAR
Profession: 13.4 WAR
Agent: Rep 1 Baseball 2024 wage: $13 million
Luis Severino had a robust comeback season, making greater than 30 begins for the primary time since 2018. He went 11-7 with a 3.91 ERA over 31 begins and struck out 161 in 182 innings. The 2-time All-Star additionally was strong within the postseason (3.24 ERA in 16 2/3 innings), which may solely enhance curiosity in free company.
Greatest staff matches: Mets, Tigers, Orioles, Pirates, Pink Sox
Wage comps: Chris Bassitt (3 years, $63M); Miles Mikolas (3 years, $55.75M); Seth Lugo (3 years, $45M); Zach Eflin (3 years, $40M); Lucas Gioloto (2 years, $38.5M); Marcus Stroman (2 years, $37M); Nathan Eovaldi (2 years, $34M); Reynaldo López, (3 years, $30M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $32 million
37. Jose Quintana, LHP
Age: 35
HT: 6-1 WT: 220
2024 (Mets): 2.5 WAR
Profession: 30.5
Agent: Wasserman 2024 wage: $13 million
Jose Quintana was good in his first two begins of this postseason, including, subtracting and hitting his spots; he allowed no earned runs in 11 mixed innings in opposition to the Brewers and Phillies.
The soft-tossing lefty pitched to a 3.75 ERA over 31 begins within the common season, ending within the 83rd percentile in total pitching run worth and within the 89th percentile in fastball run worth. He has good late motion downward that results in groundballs, rating within the 79th percentile in ground-ball charge. Over his final 76 begins throughout three seasons, he has a mixed ERA of beneath 3.50.
Greatest staff matches: Mets, Pirates, Tigers, Twins
Wage comps: Tyler Anderson (3 years, $39M); Tyler Mahle (2 years, $22M); Sean Manaea (2 years, $28M); Michael Wacha (2 years, $32M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $28 million
38. Blake Treinen, RHP
Age: 36
HT: 6-0 WT: 224
2024 (Dodgers): 1.4 WAR
Profession: 12.4 WAR
Agent: Apex Baseball 2024 wage: $1 million ($4.5M AAV for two-year, $9M deal)
After lacking most of 2022 and all of 2023 due to a torn capsule in his proper shoulder that finally required surgical procedure, Blake Treinen miraculously returned this season because the dominant high-leverage reliever he was in 2021. His sinker is again to the mid-90s with critical drop, and his sweeper is a wipeout pitch that batters hit simply .120 in opposition to. He posted a 1.93 ERA in 50 appearances.
Greatest staff matches: Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Cubs
Wage comps: Emilio Pagán (2 years, $16M); Wandy Peralta, (2 years, $16.5M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $17 million
39. Alex Verdugo, LF
Age: 28
B: L T: L HT: 6-0 WT: 210
2024 (Yankees): 0.7 WAR
Profession: 11.8
Agent: MVP Sports activities Group 2024 wage: $8.7 million
Alex Verdugo is well-liked and revered by his teammates, brings excessive vitality to the clubhouse, performs with an edge and is a strong defender in left discipline. Offensively, he had a down season, slashing simply .233/.291/.356. His energy is fairly constant as he has offered between 11 and 13 house runs within the final 5 full seasons. He performs daily, by no means complains and is the definition of a median major-league participant.
Greatest staff matches: Yankees, Twins, Athletics, Mariners
Wage comps: Michael Conforto (2 years, $36M); Mark Canha (2 years, $26.5M); Manuel Margot (2 years, $19M); Hunter Renfroe (2 years, $13M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $26 million
40. Jose Iglesias, 2B
Age: 34
B: R T: R HT: 5-11 WT: 195
2024 (Mets): 3.1 WAR
Profession: 14.8 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports activities 2024 wage: $983,871
I’ll admit it: I like Jose Iglesias’ track “OMG.” And all I can say is OMG in relation to his season, which put him within the dialog for NL Comeback Participant of the Yr, although the award will in all probability go to Chris Sale.
After not enjoying within the majors in 2023, Iglesias signed a minor-league contract with the Mets however was their beginning second baseman by the top of 12 months, enjoying in additional than half of their video games and slashing an incredible .337/.381/.448 (137 OPS+) with 16 doubles. He impressed along with his strategy on the plate — going the opposite method and grinding all through at-bats — and his elite protection in the course of the infield. Iglesias could be an excellent pickup for a number of groups, however a reunion with the Mets simply makes an excessive amount of sense for all events.
Greatest staff match: Mets
Wage comps: Brandon Drury (2 years, $17M); Isiah Kiner-Falefa (2 years, $15M); Miguel Rojas (2 years, $11M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $12 million
Paul Goldschmidt (Gregory Fisher / Imagn Pictures)
41. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B
Age: 37
B: R T: R HT: 6-3 WT: 224
2024 (Cardinals): 1.3 WAR
Profession: 62.8 WAR
Agent: Excel Sports activities Administration 2024 wage: $26 million
Nothing in baseball makes me sadder than to look at famous person gamers considerably decline. Time is undefeated, however they need to preserve enjoying as a result of they’ll nonetheless contribute.
In his prime, Paul Goldschmidt was the most effective first baseman within the sport. Simply two years in the past he was the NL MVP, main the league with a .981 OPS. The seven-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner and five-time Silver Slugger is clearly not on the stage. His on-base proportion has plummeted over the previous three years, from .404 to .363 to .302.
He nonetheless performed greater than 150 video games this season, which he’s achieved in 9 consecutive full seasons, however maybe it’s time to cut back that quantity and attempt to enhance manufacturing with extra relaxation and extra time as a delegated hitter. The Cardinals are usually not anticipated to re-sign Goldschmidt, and for the primary time in his profession, he must brace himself for a big pay minimize and a one-year deal.
Greatest staff matches: Yankees, Mariners, Diamondbacks, Brewers
Wage comps: Anthony Rizzo (2 years, $40M); Josh Bell (2 years, $33M)
Contract prediction: 1 12 months, $15 million
42. Rhys Hoskins, 1B/DH
Age: 31
B: R T: R HT: 6-4 WT: 240
2024 (Brewers): -0.2 WAR
Profession: 11.0 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $16 million
Rhys Hoskins held his personal in his first 12 months again from ACL surgical procedure, offering much-needed energy in the course of the Brewers’ lineup. He slashed .214/.303/.419 with a career-low .722 OPS however did hit 26 homers and drive in 82 runs. I anticipate him to be rather a lot higher subsequent season, with the advantage of an additional 12 months of restoration for his left knee.
Hoskins signed a two-year, $34 million cope with Milwaukee final winter and may choose out after this season. He’ll have to signal one other short-term contract to attempt to rebuild his worth.
Greatest staff matches: Brewers, Mariners, Twins
Wage comps: Anthony Rizzo (2 years, $40M); Josh Bell (2 years, $33M); Mitch Garver (2 years, $24M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $34 million
43. Jeff Hoffman, RHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-5 WT: 235
2024 (Phillies): 2.0 WAR
Profession: 3.5 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports activities 2024 wage: $2.2 million
Jeff Hoffman had the most effective 12 months of his profession, making the All-Star staff and tallying a 2.17 ERA and 0.965 WHIP in 68 video games. He struck out 89 in 66 1/3 innings (12.1 strikeouts per 9). Nonetheless, he fared poorly on this postseason, permitting six runs in 1 1/3 innings over three video games. The Phillies are unlikely to carry again each Hoffman and Carlos Estévez.
Greatest staff matches: Phillies, Orioles, Yankees, Pink Sox, Royals, Giants
Wage comps: Taylor Rogers (3 years, $33M); Joe Jiménez (3 years, $26M); Kendall Graveman (3 years, $24M); Emilio Pagán (2 years, $16M); Wandy Peralta (2 years, $16.5M); Matt Strahm (2 years, $15M); Chris Martin (2 years, $13.5M)
Contract prediction: 3 years, $27 million
44. Matthew Boyd, LHP
Age: 33
HT: 6-3 WT: 230
2024 (Guardians): 0.7 WAR
Profession: 9.9 WAR
Agent: Boras Company 2024 wage: $10 million
Matthew Boyd actually elevated his worth within the postseason as he logged a 0.77 ERA over three begins (11 2/3 innings). With a misleading supply and an arsenal that features a fastball, changeup and slider, Boyd instructions the strike zone nicely, including and subtracting with distinctive styles and sizes. He underwent Tommy John surgical procedure in June 2023 however now seems wholesome with an excellent mindset.
Greatest staff matches: Guardians, Tigers, Orioles, Padres, Braves, Pink Sox
Wage comps: Lance Lynn (1 12 months, $11M); Kyle Gibson (1 12 months, $13M)
Contract prediction: 1 12 months, $10 million
45. Clay Holmes, RHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-5 WT: 245
2024 (Yankees): 0.7 WAR
Profession: 4.2 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 wage: $6 million
Clay Holmes appeared in additional than 60 video games for the third consecutive season, posting 30 saves earlier than dropping the nearer job in August to Luke Weaver. Nonetheless, he rebounded close to the top of the season and carried out nicely in high-leverage spots within the sixth, seventh and eighth innings. He allowed just one run in his last eight appearances of the common season and completed with a 3.14 ERA.
Greatest staff matches: Yankees, Orioles, Pink Sox, Royals, Phillies
Wage comps: Ryan Pressly (2 years, $30M); Taylor Rogers (3 years, $33M); Wandy Peralta (2 years, $16.5M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $18.5 million
(High picture: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic. Images: Corbin Burnes: G Fiume / Getty Pictures; Juan Soto: Mary DeCicco / MLB Images / Getty Pictures; Pete Alonso: Daniel Shirey / MLB Images / Getty Pictures)
