MLB Offseason Heating Up with Starting Pitching Talent

The MLB offseason is in full swing, and while the likes of Shohei Ohtani and Juan Soto may not be available, a treasure trove of starting pitching talent is taking center stage. With the recent signing of Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, eyes are now on other potential frontline starters who could fortify team rotations across the league.

Teams are gearing up to make deals, and we've identified ten notable starting pitchers—five free agents and five trade candidates—who are expected to impact this offseason. Some names, including Sandy Alcantara, Hunter Greene, Paul Skenes, and Tarik Skubal, have emerged in speculative trade conversations, while others are more secure as free agents.

Potential Trade Candidates

Sandy Alcantara: After recovering from Tommy John surgery, Alcantara's value may have dipped, but he remains a strong candidate for teams looking to bolster their rotations. His potential trade hinges on the Marlins' desire to remain competitive after a solid second half of the season.

Hunter Greene: With three years and $40 million left on his extension, Greene would only be moved for an impactful bat to bolster the Cincinnati lineup, making his trade scenario complicated.

Paul Skenes: Prizing potential, acquiring Skenes would require a massive return from the Pirates, given his young age and club control.

Tarik Skubal: Similarly, Skubal demands a hefty price and would likely need to be extended by any acquiring team.

Notable Free Agent Signings

Zac Gallen: As he seeks a new deal, Gallen may find a home back in Arizona, where he previously excelled. Although he struggled during his contract year, Gallen ended on a strong note that could earn him a deal in the $20-$25 million AAV range.

MacKenzie Gore: With expected movement ahead of the 2026 season, teams are keeping an eye on Gore, who possesses elite strikeout potential and could fetch a rich return.

Tatsuya Imai: The undersized Japanese pitcher is making waves in MLB circles, and with the Yankees looking for rotation depth, he could easily become a target.

Freddy Peralta: As the Brewers potentially cut payroll, Peralta emerges as a candidate for the Mets, needing a proven ace to lead their rotation.

Projections and Speculations

Trade prospects from teams like the San Diego Padres and the New York Mets to bolster their rotations are unfolding. The need for solid arms is heightened by factors such as injuries and the pressure of competing in a challenging league.

As the offseason progresses, teams are expected to make impactful decisions that shape the upcoming season's landscape, especially for starting pitching, which is in high demand. The next wave of signings and trades could shift the balance of power in the MLB.