Two winters ago, Shohei Ohtani made headlines by signing a groundbreaking $700 million contract with the Dodgers, setting a record for the largest contract in Major League Baseball history. That record was short-lived, as Juan Soto surpassed it with a staggering $765 million deal with the Mets last December. As teams prepare for this year's free-agent class, expectations are tempered. While none of the players will likely command the astronomical figures of Ohtani or Soto, there are still valuable pieces available that could significantly impact their new franchises.
Teams have begun negotiations with their players and are making strategic decisions regarding options. However, players have had to wait at least five days post-World Series to sign with new teams, and that time has now come. Below, we present the top 30 free agents from the 2025-26 class, along with five potential landing spots for each player.
Last winter, speculation arose regarding whether Soto's deal might start with a 5 or a 6. Instead, it opened with a 7 ($765 million). This year, the bidding for top free agents will look different. While Kyle Tucker may not reach the $500 million benchmark that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. secured with his Toronto extension, he enters his age-29 season with substantial potential. Tucker has consistently provided value with over 4 WAR for five consecutive seasons, despite injuries limiting him to 214 games over the last two years. A contract in the $400-500 million range is conceivable.
Possible fits: Cubs, Dodgers, Yankees, Giants, Phillies
Approaching his mid-30s, Kyle Schwarber's age and defensive limitations may affect his earnings. However, as an MVP finalist alongside Ohtani and Soto, he remains a formidable hitter. Coming off his best season, Schwarber led the National League with 56 home runs and all of MLB with 132 RBIs. He offers a significant upgrade as a designated hitter for any team outside of Los Angeles.
Possible fits: Phillies, Cubs, Rangers, Mets, Reds
After missing a significant portion of the 2025 season due to injury, Alex Bregman still managed to impress before his quad strain. He boasted a .938 OPS and was an All-Star despite limited play. After opting out of his three-year, $120 million contract, he seeks a more extended deal. Bregman, while not packing the same power as before, still possesses elite swing decisions and excels defensively at third base.
Possible fits: Red Sox, Tigers, Mariners, Phillies, Mets
As the best middle infielder available, Bo Bichette is coming off a bounce-back season, hitting .311 with an .840 OPS, ranking among the top shortstops. Although his defensive skills may limit his overall value, his offensive talent is undeniable. He is in his prime and could potentially transition off shortstop to maximize his value.
Possible fits: Blue Jays, Braves, Yankees, Tigers, Rays
Last offseason marked a tumultuous return for Pete Alonso to the Mets. After a disappointing couple of years, he bounced back with a career-high .272 batting average, 38 home runs, and improved contact rates. With a resurgence in his performance, he may finally get closer to the multi-year offer he sought previously.
Possible fits: Mets, Mariners, Tigers, Red Sox, Nationals
Cody Bellinger has shown consistent improvement in his offensive game, boasting a strikeout rate under 16% for three consecutive seasons. While he may not replicate his 2019 MVP season's power, he remains a valuable asset with above-average defensive skills. His performance at Yankee Stadium suggests he might find a long-term home in the Bronx.
Possible fits: Yankees, Mets, Phillies, Royals, D-backs
Despite facing challenges in his contract year, Framber Valdez remains one of the most established starters on the market. His strong first half, coupled with inconsistencies afterward, led to a 3.66 ERA, his highest in several years. Nonetheless, his track record of success could attract interest from teams with a solid infield.
Possible fits: Astros, Cubs, Blue Jays, Mets, Giants
Ranger Suarez had a standout year, earning an All-Star nod in 2024 and posting a 3.20 ERA in 2025. Even though he isn't the typical postseason star, his performance in October, including a stellar playoff start, has proven his capability in high-pressure situations.
Possible fits: Phillies, Giants, Mets, Rangers, Braves
Despite a 4.55 ERA in 2025, Dylan Cease possesses swing-and-miss stuff that makes him an attractive option for teams seeking a strikeout pitcher. His ability to exceed 200 strikeouts for five consecutive seasons demonstrates his potential value, especially with an expected ERA of 3.47.
Possible fits: Padres, Cubs, Orioles, Mets, Angels
After recovering from a significant injury, Edwin Diaz rebounded with an impressive 1.63 ERA and 28 saves, marking an All-Star season. Although his strikeout rate hasn't reached previous heights, he remains one of the most dominant relievers in the game.
Possible fits: Mets, Blue Jays, Yankees, Dodgers, Rangers
