Get Ready for the Winter: Eight Free Agents with High Upside

The holiday season is in full swing, and Major League Baseball (MLB) fans are eagerly anticipating not only gifts under the tree but also potential signings that could impact the upcoming 2026 season. While big names often steal the spotlight, it’s sometimes the lesser-known players that deliver unforgettable performances. Take Jorge Polanco, for example, who was signed for just $7.75 million and nearly led the Seattle Mariners to their first World Series title last October.

This winter's free-agent market is filled with players who have the potential to provide exceptional value for teams willing to take a chance. Here is a look at eight free agents who could be worthy investments:

Luis Arraez

Age: 282025 Stats: 154 G, 675 PA, 8 HR, 11 SB, .292 AVG, .327 OBP, .392 SLG

Historically, Luis Arraez has been a polarizing figure among free agents, with little buzz surrounding him lately. After hitting .310 in the second half of 2025, he remains a .317 lifetime hitter and could provide a solid on-base presence for teams with a powerful lineup.

Potential Landing Spots: Arizona Diamondbacks, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers

Willi Castro

Age: 282025 Stats: 120 G, 454 PA, 11 HR, 10 SB, .226 AVG, .313 OBP, .366 SLG

Castro's trade to the Chicago Cubs impacted his value significantly, but he possesses defensive versatility that could be appealing to teams looking for a reliable utility player.

Potential Landing Spots: San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees

Zach Eflin

Age: 312025 Stats: 14 GS, 71.1 IP, 88 H (18 HR), 50 K, 13 BB, 5.93 ERA

After battling injuries in 2025, Eflin's potential for a rebound season remains strong if he can stay healthy. With a high talent level and good metrics, teams may find value here.

Potential Landing Spots: Athletics, San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres

Zac Gallen

Age: 302025 Stats: 33 GS, 192.0 IP, 176 H (31 HR), 175 K, 66 BB, 4.83 ERA

After being a finalist for the NL Cy Young Award in 2023, Gallen's performance declined noticeably. However, his fastball remains effective, and improved metrics could signal a bounce-back opportunity.

Potential Landing Spots: Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Angels, Texas Rangers

Marcell Ozuna

Age: 352025 Stats: 145 G, 592 PA, 21 HR, 0 SB, .232 AVG, .355 OBP, .400 SLG

Though Ozuna is showing signs of aging, his improved plate discipline could lead to better results if he can regain some of his lost power.

Potential Landing Spots: Pittsburgh Pirates, Miami Marlins, San Diego Padres

Luis Rengifo

Age: 282025 Stats: 147 G, 541 PA, 9 HR, 10 SB, .238 AVG, .287 OBP, .335 SLG

Rengifo's performance struggled last season, but he has a solid track record and could still be a valuable asset for teams seeking hidden talent.

Potential Landing Spots: Washington Nationals, Colorado Rockies, Athletics

Justin Verlander

Age: 422025 Stats: 29 GS, 152.0 IP, 155 H (16 HR), 137 K, 52 BB, 3.85 ERA

Expectations regarding Verlander's longevity are tempered, but recent performances indicate he still has the capability to contribute as a solid pitcher for contenders.

Potential Landing Spots: Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants

LaMonte Wade Jr.

Age: 312025 Stats: 80 G, 242 PA, 2 HR, 1 SB, .167 AVG, .271 OBP, .254 SLG

Wade's struggles in 2025 limited his opportunities, but teams may view him as a high-upside candidate for minor league deals.

Potential Landing Spots: Colorado Rockies, Washington Nationals, Houston Astros

As the offseason progresses, these players illustrate the potential for teams to find value in clever signings. Stay tuned for updates as we move deeper into the free agency period.