Introduction

As the MLB offseason approaches, teams must navigate the exciting and unpredictable world of free agency. With many players becoming available, organizations will need to make crucial decisions about which impending free agents to retain for the 2026 campaign. While productivity on the field is vital, financial considerations play a significant role in these decisions. Here’s a division-by-division breakdown of which player each team may prioritize bringing back.

American League East

• Baltimore Orioles: RHP Zach Eflin - After a rough health year, Eflin showed promise towards the end of 2024, making him a potential low-cost signing.
• Boston Red Sox: 3B Alex Bregman - A costly acquisition, Bregman could solidify the hot corner and their chances for postseason success.
• New York Yankees: CF Cody Bellinger - With few outfield options, Bellinger's return would be significant for the Yankees' lineup.
• Tampa Bay Rays: RHP Adrian Houser - The Rays need to ensure they retain Houser after a solid performance post-trade.
• Toronto Blue Jays: RHP Shane Bieber - Bieber's return could be essential for maintaining their competitive pitching rotation.

American League Central

• Chicago White Sox: LHP Martín Pérez - Despite limited health, Pérez can provide veteran leadership in a rebuilding phase.
• Cleveland Guardians: RHP Jake Junis - A strong finish in 2025 makes Junis a valuable candidate for return.
• Detroit Tigers: RHP Kyle Finnegan - Finnegan’s successful late-season performance could ensure him a spot in the Tigers' bullpen.
• Kansas City Royals: OF Mike Yastrzemski - His significant impact on the team's scoring makes him a valuable re-signing.
• Minnesota Twins: N/A - With no notable free agents, the Twins must explore other options.

American League West

• Athletics: LHP Sean Newcomb - After proving himself effective, Newcomb's return would support bullpen stability.
• Houston Astros: C/1B Victor Caratini - Caratini’s solid hitting credentials create a strong case for re-signing him.
• Los Angeles Angels: 3B Yoán Moncada - Moncada's on-base percentage was a highlight, making him an attractive option.
• Seattle Mariners: 1B Josh Naylor - Re-signing Naylor would maintain a strong first base presence for Seattle.
• Texas Rangers: RHP Shawn Armstrong - As a reliable reliever, Armstrong's return is crucial for Rangers' pitching depth.

National League East

• Atlanta Braves: IF Ha-Seong Kim - Kim’s player option is pivotal for the Braves’ offseason strategy.
• Miami Marlins: N/A - The Marlins have no free agents this offseason, allowing them to focus on their roster.
• New York Mets: RHP Edwin Díaz - Retaining Díaz is vital for fortifying the bullpen.
• Philadelphia Phillies: DH Kyle Schwarber - Schwarber is poised to command a significant salary due to his home run prowess.
• Washington Nationals: 1B/DH Josh Bell - After a resurgence, Bell is a clear priority for the Nationals moving forward.

National League Central

• Chicago Cubs: RF Kyle Tucker - Tucker represents a strategic investment for the Cubs in their evolving roster.
• Cincinnati Reds: RHP Emilio Pagán - A surprising turnaround makes Pagán a crucial component for the Reds going forward.
• Milwaukee Brewers: RHP Brandon Woodruff - Despite injury history, Woodruff's potential could bring him back at a manageable cost.
• Pittsburgh Pirates: DH Andrew McCutchen - The nostalgic value of McCutchen's return could resonate with the fanbase.
• St. Louis Cardinals: RHP Miles Mikolas - Though injury-prone, Mikolas might serve as a stopgap for the Cards.

National League West

• Arizona Diamondbacks: RHP Zac Gallen - Offering a qualifying deal could help retain one of their top pitchers.
• Colorado Rockies: 2B Thairo Estrada - Hopeful for better health, Estrada could be worth bringing back.
• Los Angeles Dodgers: RHP Michael Kopech - Kopech's promising returns make him a valuable asset despite injury concerns.
• San Diego Padres: RHP Dylan Cease or RHP Michael King - The Padres face tough decisions but need to keep a strong rotation element.
• San Francisco Giants: RHP Justin Verlander - An experienced arm like Verlander could add depth to their rotation.