The Free Agency Landscape for Eugenio Suárez

As MLB-free agency heats up, one significant name remains available on the market: Eugenio Suárez. Despite the recent signings of stars like Alex Bregman and Kyle Tucker, Suárez stands out as one of the best remaining middle-of-the-order hitters, coming off a remarkable season.

Suárez's 2025 Season in Review

In 2025, Suárez delivered an impressive performance, smashing 49 home runs and posting an .824 OPS between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Seattle Mariners. At 34 years old, he may be facing the reality of shorter contract offers without opt-outs due to his age and the fact that he was traded during the 2025 season, rendering him ineligible for a qualifying offer. This means potential teams signing him will not have to worry about draft-pick compensation, making him an appealing option.

Potential Landing Spots

As the new season approaches, several teams are evaluating the possibility of adding Suárez to their rosters. Here are some of the most promising destinations:

Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers have shown limited interest in Suárez thus far, primarily due to Gleyber Torres accepting a one-year, $22.025 million qualifying offer. However, there have been murmurs about the Tigers eyeing Suárez before his return to the Mariners last winter. Given the current uncertainty surrounding the hot corner, with Jace Jung underperforming and Colt Keith only suited for right-handed matchups, the Tigers might need to take another look at Suárez. Suárez himself expressed enthusiasm about returning to the team where he began his career in 2014, stating, "it would mean a lot to me." With the pressure mounting on the front office to support standout pitcher Tarik Skubal in his contract year, authorizing a bid for Suárez could be a strategic move for ownership.

Cincinnati Reds

The Cincinnati Reds missed the chance to sign local hero Kyle Schwarber but still have a glaring need for a middle-of-the-order bat. With Suárez previously hitting 189 home runs as a member of the Reds from 2015 to 2021, he could significantly bolster their lineup as they aim for a second consecutive postseason. However, the acquisition of Ke'Bryan Hayes may complicate matters since Hayes is one of baseball's premier defenders. To sign Suárez, the Reds would likely need to persuade him to transition to first base or DH—roles where he could be more effective given his defensive struggles at third base last season.

Oakland Athletics

The Oakland Athletics find themselves at a crossroads, struggling to attract veterans while playing in a less-than-ideal venue. Despite a free agent spree that netted Nolan Arenado, Suárez could fill the void at third base for the A's. While the Athletics would have to offer a compelling contract to entice Suárez away from better opportunities, his potential addition alongside young talent like Nick Kurtz and Brent Rooker could invigorate their lineup even at a diminished home field.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pirates have been linked to various players during the offseason to improve their struggling lineup that ranked last in runs scored last season. Adding Suárez could represent more than just a strategic move; it could be a signal that team ownership is committed to making a push for improved performance. It would not replace the veteran leadership of Andrew McCutchen but could help in developing the young core, including NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes.

Seattle Mariners

Despite his struggles in Seattle, Suárez's previous stint with the Mariners established a mutual respect between the player and organization. Following a strong year that almost culminated in a World Series appearance, the Mariners have had a quiet offseason and could benefit from adding Suárez's power to their lineup, particularly with the departure of Jorge Polanco in free agency and Randy Arozarena entering a contract year. If the Mariners can navigate the waters of negotiations, a potential reunion with Suárez could provide much-needed offensive reliability.

Boston Red Sox

Lastly, the Boston Red Sox are in a unique position after securing a significant deal with Ranger Suárez. With key players like Bregman and Schwarber off the board, they find themselves seeking a power hitter to complete their lineup. Suárez's successful history at Fenway Park—four homers and 14 RBIs in just ten games—makes him an intriguing candidate to fit into their roster alongside emerging talents like Roman Anthony and Jarren Duran.

Conclusion: The Future of Eugenio Suárez

As one of the last big bats available in free agency, Eugenio Suárez's journey will play a significant role in shaping the rosters of several MLB teams. Whether he returns to a previous home or ventures into new territory, his power and experience are invaluable assets that could impact any team lucky enough to add him to their lineup. As the clock ticks down to the start of spring training, teams will be eagerly assessing their options and making critical decisions regarding the eligibility and potential of the veteran slugger.