MLB Free Agency Rankings for the 2024-25 Offseason
As the MLB free agency period approaches, it’s time to delve into my annual rankings of the top free agents, complete with contract predictions and ideal team fits for each player. Although players officially become free agents the day after the World Series concludes, they cannot sign with new teams until five days after the final game. This year’s free-agent class is set to feature standout players like Juan Soto, who many in the industry anticipate will command a contract in the range of $550 million to $650 million.
The upper echelon of free agents includes four front-of-the-rotation pitchers: Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell, Max Fried, and potentially Roki Sasaki, if the 23-year-old sensation reaches free agency. In terms of position players, this class boasts significant power hitters such as first baseman Pete Alonso and right fielder Anthony Santander, alongside impactful two-way corner infielders like first baseman Christian Walker and third baseman Alex Bregman.
It’s important to note that this list will likely evolve between now and the commencement of free agency. Some players may choose not to opt out of their contracts, while others might see their clubs exercise options. Additionally, retirements could alter the landscape, and more international talents may enter the mix. For this ranking, I have included any player who has the potential to hit free agency this November, regardless of how likely that outcome may be.
Along with my colleagues at The Athletic, I will be covering free agency and the trade season comprehensively. Let’s take a closer look at the current landscape. Here is my ranking of the top 45 free agents for the upcoming offseason, complete with insights and contract projections.
(Note: Players’ ages are calculated as of October 24. WAR statistics are sourced from Baseball Reference as of the same date.)
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1. Juan Soto, OF
Age: 25
B: L T: L HT: 6-2 WT: 225
2024 (Yankees): 7.9 WAR
Career: 36.4 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $31 millionHas Juan Soto found his long-term home with the Yankees? Following a strong season in the Bronx, he has certainly lived up to expectations, posting a slash line of .288/.419/.569, with 41 home runs and leading the league with 128 runs scored. Anticipated to finish third in the American League MVP voting, Soto has stepped up in crucial postseason moments, logging a remarkable 1.106 OPS.
He is on track to become the second-highest-paid player in baseball history, just behind Shohei Ohtani. A generational talent, Soto will hit free agency at just 26, making a lengthy contract likely. Most executives project his contract to range between $550 million and $650 million, which could limit his market to both New York teams and the Blue Jays, with potential interest from the Dodgers, Phillies, Rangers, and even the Nationals.
Best team fits: Yankees, Mets, Blue Jays
Salary comps: Ohtani (10 years, $700M); Mike Trout (12 years, $426M); Mookie Betts (12 years, $365M); Judge (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
Career: 17.2 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $15.64 millionCorbin Burnes is set for his fifth consecutive season finishing in the top eight of Cy Young Award voting. After going 15-9 with 181 strikeouts and a WHIP of 1.096 in his first year in the American League following an offseason trade to the Orioles, Burnes has proven to be a reliable arm. He has surpassed 190 innings for three straight years and boasts a career record of 60-36 with a 3.19 ERA across 199 games (138 starts).
He is poised to be the most sought-after pitcher in free agency this offseason.
Best team fits: Mets, Dodgers, Red Sox, Orioles
Salary 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: 187Roki Sasaki’s future with MLB remains uncertain as the Chiba Lotte Marines may not allow him to leave this offseason. However, with the Marines out of the NPB playoffs, a decision is expected soon. If he does make the leap, he will undoubtedly be the most coveted international free agent, with the Dodgers, Mets, Yankees, Red Sox, and Diamondbacks all showing interest in scouting him.
His potential contract will hinge on medical evaluations, as he missed two months this year due to arm issues, limiting him to 18 games and 111 innings. Despite this, he showcased his talent, averaging an impressive 100.5 mph with his fastball.
Best team fits: Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, Diamondbacks, Red Sox
Salary comps: None
Contract prediction: Minor-league contract -
4. Gerrit Cole, RHP
Age: 34
HT: 6-4 WT: 220
2024 (Yankees): 2.0 WAR
Career: 43.3 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $36 millionWhile Gerrit Cole is not a free agent this offseason, he holds the right to opt out of his contract, which is why he features in this list. However, it’s highly unlikely he will do so, as he stands to earn $36 million annually with the Yankees through 2028, a figure he likely would not match in free agency.
Even after spending 2.5 months on the injured list this year, Cole has been regaining his form, and his fastball velocity has returned, reaching 97 mph during crucial postseason outings.
Prediction: Cole will not opt out of his contract.
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5. Max Fried, LHP
Age: 30
HT: 6-4 WT: 190
2024 (Braves): 3.5 WAR
Career: 24.1 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $15 millionMax Fried boasts a career record of 73-36 with a 3.07 ERA, having made two All-Star teams and finishing in the top five of the Cy Young voting twice. While he has been a reliable starter, injuries have plagued him, including issues with his left forearm in recent years. The Braves are eager to retain him, as they have made several unsuccessful attempts to extend his contract in the past.
Best team fits: Braves, Orioles, Mets, Red Sox
Salary 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
Career: 19.8 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $20.5 millionAfter a stellar postseason performance that included three opposite-field home runs, Pete Alonso’s value has surged. The first baseman is beloved in New York, and a return to the Mets seems almost inevitable. However, several contending teams would eagerly welcome his power bat in their lineup.
Best team fits: Mets, Mariners, Yankees, Nationals
Salary 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
Career: 39.6 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $20 millionAlex Bregman’s desire to finish his career with the Astros may be tested as the organization has a reputation for allowing star players to leave when they don’t meet contract demands. A proven leader with exceptional plate discipline, Bregman’s market is likely to be defined between Matt Chapman’s recent contract and Nolan Arenado’s deals with the Rockies and Cardinals.
Best team fits: Astros, Yankees, Nationals, Mariners, Tigers
Salary 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
Career: 23.4 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $32 millionBlake Snell sought a long-term deal last offseason but faced skepticism from executives regarding his durability, having only made 30 or more starts twice in his nine-year career. However, he won a Cy Young Award in both of those seasons. Despite early injuries this past year, Snell posted a 3.12 ERA and 2.43 FIP over his final 20 starts.
Best team fits: Yankees, Orioles, Mets, Braves, Giants
Salary 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 Gray (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
Career: 8.9 WAR
Agent: Rep 1 Baseball 2024 salary: $5.7 millionFreddy Peralta is not expected to reach free agency since the Brewers are likely to exercise their $8 million team option for 2025. He recorded a 3.68 ERA over 32 starts this season, achieving 200 strikeouts in 173 2/3 innings.
Prediction: Brewers will exercise $8 million team option for 2025.
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10. Anthony Santander, RF
Age: 30
B: B T: R HT: 6-2 WT: 230
2024 (Orioles): 2.9 WAR
Career: 11.1 WAR
Agent: GSE Worldwide 2024 salary: $11.7 millionWith many teams in search of power-hitting corner outfielders, Anthony Santander’s value has surged. He hit a career-high 44 home runs, finishing behind only Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani on the major-league leaderboard. Over the past three seasons, he has hit 105 home runs and remains a valuable asset at just 30 years old.
Best team fits: Orioles, Nationals, Reds, Blue Jays, Mariners
Salary 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
Career: 21.5 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $12.25 millionWilly Adames has been a key player for the Brewers, and teams like the Dodgers may be interested in his services this offseason. Adames has a history with Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, who values his skill set. With versatility and a strong defensive game, he could be a perfect fit for the left side of the infield.
Best team fits: Dodgers, Brewers, Braves
Salary 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
Career: 27.7 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $18 millionMarcell Ozuna emerged as the Braves’ most productive offensive player this season, achieving a slash line of .302/.378/.546, complemented by 31 doubles and 39 home runs. The Braves hold a club option for $16 million for 2025, which they are expected to exercise, keeping Ozuna off the market.
Prediction: Braves will exercise $16 million club option for 2025.
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13. Christian Walker, 1B
Age: 33
B: R T: R HT: 6-0 WT: 208
2024 (Diamondbacks): 2.6 WAR
Career: 15.1 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $10.9 millionChristian Walker is one of the top first basemen in the league, yet he has never received an All-Star nod. The two-time Gold Glove winner had a solid season, hitting 26 home runs and driving in 84 RBIs despite missing time due to an oblique injury. Several teams have shown interest, with the Astros and Mariners being prime candidates.
Best team fits: Astros, Mariners, Diamondbacks, Yankees, Mets
Salary 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
Career: 24.5 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $30 millionCody Bellinger did not secure the long-term deal he sought last offseason and may again have to consider a shorter-term contract with a higher average annual value. His recent performances have been inconsistent, but he remains a valuable asset due to his ability to play multiple positions and his past accolades, including an MVP award.
Best team fits: Cubs, Mariners, Giants, Blue Jays, Angels, Astros, Pirates, Phillies, Nationals
Salary 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
Career: 17.7 WAR
Agent: Rosenhaus Sports Representation 2024 salary: $13.13 millionShane Bieber is likely to be a top value signing this offseason due to his potential upside. He was the AL Cy Young Award winner in 2020 and has been an All-Star twice. Though he underwent Tommy John surgery this year, if he returns to form, he could provide significant value for the team that signs him.
Best team fits: Dodgers, Rangers, Guardians, Padres
Salary comps: N/A
Contract prediction: Low base salary with incentives for games started and innings pitched, plus option years. -
16. Sean Manaea, LHP
Age: 32
HT: 6-5 WT: 245
2024 (Mets): 3.0 WAR
Career: 15.1 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $14.5 millionSean Manaea has significantly boosted his free-agent value this year thanks to mechanical changes that enhanced his performance. He recorded a 12-6 record with a 3.47 ERA and impressive strikeout numbers. His postseason performances solidified his standing as a desirable free agent.
Best team fits: Mets, Orioles, Twins
Salary comps: Hyun Jin Ryu (4 years, $80M); Eduardo Rodriguez (4 years, $80M); Sonny Gray (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
Career: 13.2 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $14 millionJack Flaherty showcased his potential after being traded to the Dodgers, where he excelled as their best starter. He demonstrated his ability to miss bats and is expected to receive interest from teams willing to overlook his previous medical issues.
Best team fits: Dodgers, Mets, Twins, Tigers
Salary comps: Lance McCullers Jr. (5 years, $85M); Mitch Keller (5 years, $77M); Sonny Gray (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: 198Tomoyuki Sugano has been a dominant force in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), boasting a career record of 136-75 with a 2.45 ERA. His impressive performance this year included a 1.67 ERA in 24 starts. If he decides to make the jump to MLB, he will garner significant interest.
Best team fits: Padres, Rangers, Dodgers, Orioles, Guardians, Mets
Salary comps: N/A
Contract prediction: None at this time. -
19. Michael Wacha, RHP
Age: 33
HT: 6-6 WT: 215
2024 (Royals): 3.5 WAR
Career: 16.6 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $16 millionMichael Wacha has consistently performed well over the past three seasons, showcasing his ability to earn double-digit wins while maintaining solid ERAs. His unique delivery and exceptional changeup make him a valuable asset on the free-agent market.
Best team fits: Royals, Pirates, Orioles, Twins, Tigers
Salary comps: Jameson Taillon (4 years, $68M); Miles Mikolas (3 years, $55.75M); Jon Gray (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
Career: 21.0 WAR
Agent: ACES 2024 salary: $16 million ($20 million player option for 2025)Nathan Eovaldi had a solid season, maintaining a 3.80 ERA and achieving 12 wins for the second consecutive year. With expectations that he will opt out of his contract, Eovaldi should receive interest from numerous contending teams.
Best team fits: Rangers, Red Sox, Orioles, Padres
Salary comps: Sonny Gray (3 years, $75M); Blake Snell (2 years, $62M); Seth Lugo (3 years, $45M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $42 million with a team option. -
21. Teoscar Hernández, LF
Age: 32
B: R T: R HT: 6-2 WT: 215
2024 (Dodgers): 4.3 WAR
Career: 17.1 WAR
Agent: Republik Sports 2024 salary: $23.5 millionTeoscar Hernández made a smart move signing with the Dodgers on a one-year deal, allowing him to thrive in a strong lineup. With a career-high 33 home runs and 99 RBIs, he has positioned himself for a lucrative multi-year deal.
Best team fit: Dodgers, Nationals, Tigers, Royals
Salary 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
Career: 12.2 WAR
Agent: Excel Sports Management 2024 salary: $8.025 millionWalker Buehler’s season was less than stellar, but he showed glimpses of his potential during the NLCS. He may need to sign a one-year deal with a mutual option to prove he can remain healthy and regain his prior form.
Best team fit: Dodgers
Salary comps: None
Contract prediction: 1 year, $10 million with incentives. -
23. Tanner Scott, LHP
Age: 30
HT: 6-0 WT: 235
2024 (Marlins, Padres): 3.9 WAR
Career: 8.6 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports Group 2024 salary: $5.7 millionTanner Scott is poised to be the premier left-handed reliever in free agency after a standout season, achieving a 1.75 ERA and 22 saves. His ability to perform in high-leverage situations will attract attention from teams needing bullpen help.
Best team fits: Padres, Orioles, Rangers, Tigers, Royals, Nationals, Giants
Salary 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
Career: 8.5 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports Group 2024 salary: $1 millionJurickson Profar enjoyed a breakout season after signing a low-risk deal with the Padres. With a .380 on-base percentage and a career-high in home runs, he has positioned himself for a multi-year contract this offseason.
Best team fits: Padres, Twins
Salary 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
Career: 23.6 WAR
Agent: Octagon 2024 salary: $11.285 millionEugenio Suárez delivered a powerful season for the Diamondbacks, hitting 30 home runs and driving in 100 RBIs. His strong defensive abilities at third base add to his value, making him a desirable target for teams looking to bolster their infield.
Best team fits: Diamondbacks, Blue Jays
Salary comps: Matt Chapman (6 years, $151M); Chris Taylor (4 years, $60M); Max Muncy (2 years, $24M)
Contract prediction: Diamondbacks exercise $15 million team option for 2025. -
26. Jordan Montgomery, LHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-6 WT: 228
WAR: -1.4
Career: 11.2 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 salary: $25 millionJordan Montgomery had a difficult season, finishing with a 6.23 ERA after turning down a four-year offer from the Red Sox. With a disappointing performance and a hefty player option, he may be forced to remain with the Diamondbacks and hope for a trade opportunity.
Best team fits: Orioles, Red Sox, Tigers, Twins, Nationals
Salary comps: None
Prediction: Montgomery exercises $22.5 million player option, and the Diamondbacks explore trade possibilities. -
27. Ha-Seong Kim, SS
Age: 28
B: R T: R HT: 5-9 WT: 168
2024 (Padres): 2.6 WAR
Career: 15.3 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $8 millionHa-Seong Kim underwent season-ending shoulder surgery this past September but has shown his potential as an elite defender. If he can recover fully, he could land a “pillow contract” to demonstrate his capabilities in 2024.
Best team fits: Padres, Brewers, Dodgers, Pirates
Salary 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 year, $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
Career: 16.1 WAR
Agent: Octagon 2024 salary: $14.2 millionGleyber Torres has expressed interest in a long-term deal with the Yankees, but negotiations have yet to gain traction. His offensive contributions have been solid, and he has shown impressive performance in the postseason, increasing his appeal as a free agent.
Best team fits: Yankees, Mariners, Blue Jays, Marlins
Salary comps: Jeff McNeil (4 years, $50M); Nico Hoerner (3 years, $35M); J.P. Crawford (5 years, $51M)
Contract prediction: 4 years, $44 million. -
29. Tyler O’Neill, OF
Age: 29
B: R T: R HT: 5-11 WT: 200
2024 (Red Sox): 2.7 WAR
Career: 12.6 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $5.85 millionTyler O’Neill is coming off a productive season with 31 home runs, but his struggles with injuries have limited his availability. Despite this, he has proven his power potential and could be a valuable addition for a team willing to take a chance on him.
Best team fit: Red Sox
Salary 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
Career: 4.1 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $10 millionYusei Kikuchi had a mixed season with the Blue Jays but saw a resurgence after being traded to the Astros. His improved performance in Houston highlighted his potential, making him an attractive option for teams seeking pitching depth.
Best team fits: Astros, Orioles, Tigers, Twins
Salary 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
Career: 16.0 WAR
Agent: The Bledsoe Agency 2024 salary: $8.75 millionBrandon Lowe’s injury history has hindered his consistency, but he remains a power threat when healthy. The Rays hold options for his future, and Lowe could be a valuable signing for teams willing to take a risk on his potential.
Best team fits: Rays, Yankees, Mariners, White Sox, Blue Jays
Salary 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): 4.0 WAR
Career: 8.7 WAR
Agent: RMG Baseball 2024 salary: $14 millionNick Martinez had a career year, excelling both as a starter and reliever. His consistent performance has made him a valuable asset, and he will likely seek a contract that reflects his contributions.
Best team fits: Reds, Padres, Tigers, Orioles, Twins, Red Sox
Salary 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
Career: 17.3 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 salary: $20 millionCharlie Morton remains a consistent performer, reaching the 30-start threshold for the sixth consecutive season. However, with speculation surrounding his retirement, he may only return for another season if the Braves offer a suitable deal.
Best team fit: Braves
Salary comps: Frankie Montas (1 year, $16M)
Contract prediction: 1 year, $20 million. -
34. Joc Pederson, OF/DH
Age: 32
B: L T: L HT: 6-1 WT: 220
2024 (Diamondbacks): 2.9 WAR
Career: 15.1 WAR
Agent: Excel Sports Management 2024 salary: $12.5 millionJoc Pederson has excelled in his role against right-handed pitching, delivering strong offensive numbers. With a mutual option for 2025, he may seek a multi-year deal that reflects his performance this season.
Best team fit: Diamondbacks, Reds, Rockies
Salary comps: Rhys Hoskins (2 years, $34M); Mitch Garver (2 years, $24M); Justin Turner (1 year, $13M); J.D. Martinez (1 year, $12M); Charlie Blackmon (1 year, $13M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $26 million. -
35. Carlos Estévez, RHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-6 WT: 275
2024 (Angels, Phillies): 2.1 WAR
Career: 4.8 WAR
Agent: Premier Talent Sports and Entertainment 2024 salary: $6.75 millionCarlos Estévez had a strong walk year, posting impressive ERAs before and after his trade to the Phillies. With his experience as a closer, he will be sought after by teams looking to strengthen their bullpen.
Best team fits: Phillies, Orioles, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Pirates
Salary 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
Career: 13.4 WAR
Agent: Rep 1 Baseball 2024 salary: $13 millionLuis Severino had a strong showing in 2024, making over 30 starts for the first time since 2018. His performances, especially in the postseason, have increased his appeal as a free agent.
Best team fits: Mets, Tigers, Orioles, Pirates, Red Sox
Salary comps: Chris Bassitt (3 years, $63M); Miles Mikolas (3 years, $55.75M); Seth Lugo (3 years, $45M); Zach Eflin (3 years, $40M); Lucas Giolito (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
Career: 30.5 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 salary: $13 millionJose Quintana has excelled in the postseason, showing his ability to perform under pressure. His consistent performance over the last few seasons makes him a valuable addition for any team needing a reliable lefty starter.
Best team fits: Mets, Pirates, Tigers, Twins
Salary 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
Career: 12.4 WAR
Agent: Apex Baseball 2024 salary: $1 million ($4.5M AAV for a two-year, $9M deal)Blake Treinen made a remarkable comeback this season after missing significant time due to injury. His return to form as a high-leverage reliever has positioned him well in free agency.
Best team fits: Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Cubs
Salary 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
Career: 11.8 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports Group 2024 salary: $8.7 millionAlex Verdugo brings energy and consistency to any lineup, but he had a down year at the plate. Despite this, his solid defensive skills and past performance make him a valuable candidate for teams in need of outfield depth.
Best team fits: Yankees, Twins, Athletics, Mariners
Salary 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
Career: 14.8 WAR
Agent: MVP Sports 2024 salary: $983,871Jose Iglesias had an impressive comeback season, emerging as a leader on the Mets. His elite defensive skills combined with a strong offensive showing make him a valuable addition for teams looking to strengthen their middle infield.
Best team fit: Mets
Salary comps: Brandon Drury (2 years, $17M); Isiah Kiner-Falefa (2 years, $15M); Miguel Rojas (2 years, $11M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $12 million. -
41. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B
Age: 37
B: R T: R HT: 6-3 WT: 224
2024 (Cardinals): 1.3 WAR
Career: 62.8 WAR
Agent: Excel Sports Management 2024 salary: $26 millionPaul Goldschmidt, once the premier first baseman in baseball, has seen a decline in performance but still offers valuable experience. He may explore a one-year deal as he aims to extend his career while contributing to a team.
Best team fits: Yankees, Mariners, Diamondbacks, Brewers
Salary comps: Anthony Rizzo (2 years, $40M); Josh Bell (2 years, $33M)
Contract prediction: 1 year, $15 million. -
42. Rhys Hoskins, 1B/DH
Age: 31
B: R T: R HT: 6-4 WT: 240
2024 (Brewers): -0.2 WAR
Career: 11.0 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $16 millionRhys Hoskins is coming off a solid season, hitting 26 home runs. As he continues to recover from ACL surgery, he could command a short-term deal to rebuild his value in the league.
Best team fits: Brewers, Mariners, Twins
Salary 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
Career: 3.5 WAR
Agent: CAA Sports 2024 salary: $2.2 millionJeff Hoffman had a standout year, making the All-Star roster and achieving a 2.17 ERA over 68 games. Although his postseason performance was underwhelming, his overall contributions will attract interest from teams looking for reliable relief options.
Best team fits: Phillies, Orioles, Yankees, Red Sox, Royals, Giants
Salary 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
Career: 9.9 WAR
Agent: Boras Corporation 2024 salary: $10 millionMatthew Boyd greatly improved his value during the postseason, showcasing his skill set in multiple starts. His deceptive delivery and strike zone command could make him an attractive target for teams looking for a reliable left-handed pitcher.
Best team fits: Guardians, Tigers, Orioles, Padres, Braves, Red Sox
Salary comps: Lance Lynn (1 year, $11M); Kyle Gibson (1 year, $13M)
Contract prediction: 1 year, $10 million. -
45. Clay Holmes, RHP
Age: 31
HT: 6-5 WT: 245
2024 (Yankees): 0.7 WAR
Career: 4.2 WAR
Agent: Wasserman 2024 salary: $6 millionClay Holmes had another strong season, achieving 30 saves before losing his closer role. However, he rebounded well, allowing only one run in his last eight appearances, showcasing his ability to perform in high-leverage situations.
Best team fits: Yankees, Orioles, Red Sox, Royals, Phillies
Salary comps: Ryan Pressly (2 years, $30M); Taylor Rogers (3 years, $33M); Wandy Peralta (2 years, $16.5M)
Contract prediction: 2 years, $18.5 million.
(Top image: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic. Photos: Corbin Burnes: G Fiume / Getty Images; Juan Soto: Mary DeCicco / MLB Photos / Getty Images; Pete Alonso: Daniel Shirey / MLB Photos / Getty Images)
