Moneyline presents an overview of the 2024-25 MLB free agent rankings, outlining the top 25 available players along with projections for their contracts and potential destinations. Understanding the nuances of the free agency landscape is crucial, particularly in contract projections, which remain relatively consistent regardless of team choice.
A key consideration in this free agent landscape is the domino effect which can impact player movement. For instance, if Blake Snell signs with a particular team, it is likely to influence the destinations of other pitchers like Corbin Burnes and Max Fried. Not all 30 teams are expected to secure a top free agent; however, they may still pursue players outside the top 25 or enhance their rosters via trades.
One of the highlights of this free agency period is Roki Sasaki, who will be posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines. The 23-year-old stands out as a premier player in this cycle, boasting an impressive 29-15 record and a 2.10 ERA in four seasons with Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). While Sasaki's potential is immense, his earning capacity is constrained due to international bonus pool restrictions, as noted by MLB.com analyst Thomas Harrigan. This scenario mirrors the experience of Shohei Ohtani when he transitioned to the MLB, initially signing with the Los Angeles Angels for a contract involving international bonus pool money, allowing the Angels six years of team control before he qualified for free agency.
Ultimately, Sasaki's decision may come down to comfort and fit with the team rather than the financial aspect. Though some teams possess more international bonus pool funds than others, the overall difference is not substantial enough to allow for large contracts. Given the Los Angeles Dodgers' established presence in the Japanese market through signings like Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, they are likely to be frontrunners for any players posted from Japan moving forward.
As for Carlos Estévez, the 31-year-old All-Star reliever from the 2023 season demonstrated robust performance in 2024 with a 2.45 ERA across 54 games with the Angels and Phillies. Estévez showcased substantial growth in his walk rate, significantly reducing it from a career average. However, inconsistencies late in the season, particularly in high-pressure situations, raise concerns about his reliability as a premier bullpen arm.
At age 32, Estévez is projected to command a two-year contract valued at $23 million, with the Chicago Cubs emerging as a potential landing spot.
Blake Treinen, who will turn 37 during the 2025 season, also presents a compelling case as a free agent. With a stellar 2.19 ERA in the postseason and a strong performance in the regular season, Treinen's return from injury has reaffirmed his status as a top reliever. His versatile pitching repertoire could make him an attractive addition for teams seeking either a closer or a setup arm, with the Philadelphia Phillies perhaps a suitable destination.
Meanwhile, Clay Holmes, the two-time All-Star from the New York Yankees, had a strong first half in 2024 but struggled following the All-Star break. His postseason performance showed promise, but lingering control issues may hinder his marketability this offseason, potentially leading to a one-year contract worth $10 million. The Orioles could be a potential suitor for the 31-year-old reliever, providing him some support as he navigates a market filled with competition.
Gleyber Torres, coming off a disappointing season offensively, will be seeking a fresh start as a free agent. Despite a disappointing .257 average and .709 OPS, his youth and prior success—such as hitting 38 home runs in 2019—make him a valuable candidate for teams looking for a second baseman or a designated hitter role. Torres' defensive metrics have shown inconsistency, but teams with vacancies may be willing to take a chance on his offensive revival, speculating a one-year contract worth around $15 million.
The free agent landscape also highlights players like Joc Pederson, who significantly increased his production with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2024. After a stellar season where he hit 23 home runs and boasted a .908 OPS, he is expected to draw interest as a designated hitter. Teams seeking left-handed power should consider his proven postseason experience.
Jurickson Profar's recent All-Star campaign raises questions regarding sustainability, marking a significant turnaround from his previous season. While there may be skepticism surrounding his potential, Profar's impressive offensive numbers could intrigue teams willing to take a risk on his capabilities moving forward. Meanwhile, Tyler O'Neill is poised to leverage his championship-level potential despite injury setbacks. Likely to seek a two-year deal, his ability to produce when healthy makes him a coveted acquisition for teams willing to take a chance.
Looking ahead to players like Ha-Seong Kim, who faced a dip in performance yet possesses the flexibility to play multiple infield positions, his market will hinge on which teams can afford to be patient during his recovery. The Philadelphia Phillies and other clubs in need of depth in the middle infield may find value in considering his unique skill set.
Jeff Hoffman transformed from a potential bust into one of the league's elite bullpen arms, significantly contributing to the Philadelphia Phillies in 2024. His hopes to return to the Phillies may become complicated should various teams express interest in his talents, potentially viewing him as a capable starting pitcher.
Nathan Eovaldi, a veteran with postseason prowess, stands as an intriguing free-agent option for teams looking for a reliable starter. His history of performance makes him a solid candidate for multi-year investment, and the Washington Nationals may be in pursuit of his skill set in their rotation.
Yusei Kikuchi presents a polarizing option, with opinions still divided on his value. After mixing performances in both the Blue Jays and Astros, teams seeking depth in their rotations might find him to be an affordable venture. Likewise, Luis Severino re-emerged as a frontline starter after years of injuries. His market value will likely remain contingent on continued health and performance.
Christian Walker's productivity as an impactful first baseman, coupled with his Gold Glove defense, positions him as a valuable free agent, though age concerns might limit year lengths on contracts. Tanner Scott keeps drawing attention thanks to consecutive All-Star selections and impressive performances in relief; his market trajectory remains bullish for teams needing late-inning stability.
As teams search for impactful infielders, Willy Adames may offer both power and flexibility as a shortstop or other positions, while Pete Alonso remains a formidable slugger after a powerful showing in 2024. His credentials place him among the highest earners this offseason, yet concerns over his long-term viability might temper some team's aggressiveness.
Lastly, Juan Soto's impending free agency sets the stage for what could be one of the most competitive pursuits in recent memory. Despite his desire for a historical contract in the realm of $700 million, the market may be limited to only a few franchises. Soto, who exemplified excellence in his first season with the New York Yankees, is likely to remain in New York, considering both the Yankees and Mets have a vested interest in securing his talents for the future.
