As the offseason progresses, Major League Baseball sees a flurry of activity, with top-tier free agents weighing their options and teams maneuvering to strengthen their rosters. Despite an active market, three out of the top eight MLB free agents remain unsigned, contributing to an intriguing offseason narrative.
More broadly, half of the top twelve MLB free agents, and nearly half of the top 50, are still exploring their market opportunities. Specifically, 24 of these top-tier players continue to field offers, indicating a landscape rich with potential moves that could reshape teams across the league.
In a significant commitment to their future, the Oakland Athletics locked in Brent Rooker with a five-year, $60 million contract extension. This move underscores the Athletics' confidence in Rooker's potential as they look to build around his talents in the coming years.
Yankees Eye Stroman
The New York Yankees, ever proactive in optimizing their roster, are actively pursuing a trade for starting pitcher Marcus Stroman. With an $18.5 million salary for 2025 and a player option of $18 million for 2026, the Yankees appear to be eyeing Stroman as a critical addition to their rotation. Last season, Stroman recorded a 4.31 ERA with a 1.47 WHIP, tallying 113 strikeouts against 60 walks over nearly 155 innings, offering a glimpse of his value on the mound.
Meanwhile, the Yankees are not solely focused on Stroman. They have expressed renewed interest in strengthening their infield, particularly at second base, and have checked in on free agent Jorge Polanco. This comes after the Mariners decided to decline their $12 million option for Polanco for the 2025 season.
Arenado Declines Houston
Nolan Arenado remains a player of considerable intrigue on the market. Despite having $74 million due over the next three seasons, including $10 million from the Rockies, he recently exercised his no-trade clause to veto a potential move to Houston. Arenado's decision reflects his leverage and perhaps suggests a desire to remain with his current team, where he hit .272 with 16 home runs last season.
Braves on the Hunt
Elsewhere, the Atlanta Braves are actively seeking to bolster their lineup and bullpen. Their search includes finding an additional outfielder, a high-leverage reliever, and another starting pitcher. As Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuña Jr. work on returning from injuries, fortifying their roster is imperative for the Braves' prospects in the upcoming season.
Mets and Jays on the Prowl
The New York Mets have shown an interest in left-handed reliever Tanner Scott, who impressed last season with a 1.75 ERA. Targeting such talent suggests the Mets' intention to enhance their bullpen for greater depth and effectiveness.
Meanwhile, the Toronto Blue Jays have set their sights on Carlos Estévez, emphasizing their strategy to strengthen their pitching staff. These engagements highlight how several franchises are navigating the offseason with calculated moves to elevate their competitive edge.
Rays and Rasmussen's Future
The Tampa Bay Rays have moved decisively to extend Drew Rasmussen’s stay, penning a two-year deal that could stretch to 2027 with additional incentives. Rasmussen, having recovered from internal brace surgery, is projected to be a cornerstone in the Rays' pitching plans moving forward.
As the offseason continues to unfold, each move, from extensions and trades to declined options, builds the anticipation for what promises to be an exciting MLB season ahead. With many top talents still evaluating their next steps, the coming weeks are likely to see more headline-grabbing decisions as teams and players align their futures in pursuit of baseball glory.