This year’s free agency is shaping up to be pretty interesting. While there aren’t any superstars at the top of the list, there’s plenty of talent in both hitting and pitching. Compiling a list of the top players wasn’t too difficult; I could have added more names if I wanted to.
Here’s a look at 50 notable free agents based on what teams might be willing to pay them. This ranking isn’t about what they’ll actually get, but more about their expected value based on their skills and potential for growth or decline over the next few years.
I’m writing this before the World Series wraps up, so these guesses include some assumptions about player and team options that haven’t been confirmed yet. For instance, players like Brandon Lowe and Chris Sale are expected to have their options picked up, while Trevor Story is likely to stick with his contract. There may also be newcomers coming from overseas leagues, and I’ll update these rankings if any new players enter the pool.
Let’s dive into some players and what makes them stand out.
Player Insights
Kyle Tucker: Although he didn’t have a breakout year this season—hitting only 22 home runs—his struggles can be partly attributed to a hand injury. He hit well prior to that and is still considered young, with lots of potential for a rebound season.
Bo Bichette: Primarily known as a shortstop, he might be shifting to second base permanently. His bat remains valuable, and he has shown improvements in contact rates, making him a strong candidate for future success.
Cody Bellinger: After a rough period, Bellinger turned things around in the Bronx. His improved plate discipline is notable, and his versatility in the field enhances his marketability.
Noteworthy Statistics
Framber Valdez: He stands out primarily for durability, having pitched over 900 innings in the last five seasons. His sinkerball approach and solid strikeout rates make him a reliable option in any rotation.
Ranger Suárez: Known for his consistency, Suárez hasn’t qualified for the ERA title but continues to produce solid numbers. He’s known for keeping hitters off balance despite some injury issues.
Gleyber Torres: While he started the year strong, his performance dipped significantly in the second half due to injuries. He’s shown potential but needs to solidify his offensive output.
Emerging Talent
Kazuma Okamoto: He’s a high-risk, high-reward type of player with significant power but concerns about his contact ability against elite pitching. He could thrive if he transitions to first base from third.
Cedric Mullins: After a promising 2021, Mullins struggled in recent seasons. He remains a good defensive option and could find a role as a strong side of a platoon.
Final Thoughts
Free agency can bring surprises, and this offseason is no exception. Some players may recover their previous form, while others might need time to transition into new roles. Teams will be looking to strengthen their rosters, and the right moves could lead to unexpected success.
For more on detailed statistics and player performance, check MLB.com.
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