Unraveling Free Agency Moves
As we approach the excitement of Spring Training, the offseason buzz is alive with trades and new prospects, capturing the attention of baseball fans eagerly awaiting the return of the game.
While the Los Angeles Dodgers have secured the incredible talent of Japanese pitcher Roki Sasaki, several other noteworthy free agents are still on the hunt for their next teams.
In a quest to match these outstanding players with suitable destinations, we’ve identified potential suitors for ten standout free agents yet to find a home.
Each team is represented only once in this strategic pairing, showcasing the top players still available.
- Alex Bregman, 3B
Best Fit: Detroit Tigers
Despite an unexpected playoff push in 2024, the Tigers are just beginning to explore their championship potential.
With their star pitcher, Tarik Skubal, under contract for only two more years, it’s critical for Detroit to make some bold moves now.
After adding Gleyber Torres for one season, the team is still looking to improve a lineup that faced struggles last year.
Bregman could seamlessly fill the hole at third base while offering the financial flexibility needed to make a significant impact.
- Pete Alonso, 1B
Best Fit: New York Mets
The Mets celebrated a successful offseason with a historic deal for Juan Soto but may still be missing a key power hitter.
Alonso has been a steady presence at first base since 2019, so even though contract negotiations have stalled, a reunion with the Mets remains possible for this formidable slugger.
- Anthony Santander, OF
Best Fit: Toronto Blue Jays
While the Blue Jays are eyeing Alonso, the switch-hitting Santander might provide a more advantageous option for their predominantly right-handed lineup.
The team’s left-handed hitters struggled with home runs and offensive production last season, and Santander could help fill that gap, enhancing both depth and flexibility in the outfield.
- Jack Flaherty, SP
Best Fit: Atlanta Braves
With championship aspirations, the Braves face uncertainty in their pitching rotation following the losses of Max Fried and Charlie Morton.
By signing a seasoned free agent like Flaherty, Atlanta could shore up its rotation and alleviate concerns after a relatively quiet offseason—all without overspending.
- Ha-Seong Kim, INF
Best Fit: San Francisco Giants
The Giants have made some improvements to their roster, but they still need to enhance their competitiveness in the National League.
Kim could fortify the second base position and improve San Francisco’s chances of vying for a Wild Card spot, especially following his recovery from shoulder surgery.
- Carlos Estévez, RP
Best Fit: Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have struggled to establish a dependable bullpen, which was evident in their late-inning performance last season.
With a career-best ERA and 26 saves in 2024, Estévez would be an excellent addition to help bolster their relief pitching.
- Max Scherzer, SP
Best Fit: Washington Nationals
Though Scherzer may be inclined to join a contender, the current situation suggests a return to the Nationals could be both realistic and strategic.
His experience and skill would not only strengthen their rotation but also provide invaluable mentorship to younger pitchers seeking to improve.
- Jurickson Profar, OF
Best Fit: San Diego Padres
Profar has enjoyed a successful run with the Padres and has maintained a solid OPS over the years.
His return could be crucial in addressing the team’s left-field situation and overall offensive stability.
- Nick Pivetta, SP
Best Fit: Los Angeles Angels
While Pivetta’s market has faced some challenges, the Angels are actively seeking to improve their pitching staff and could welcome him into their rotation.
This mutually beneficial opportunity could arise without incurring significant draft penalties.
- Kirby Yates, RP
Best Fit: Cincinnati Reds
With several key relief pitchers departing in 2024, the Reds could significantly enhance their bullpen by adding Yates.
His expertise would provide a reliable closer option and security in case Alexis Díaz faces any difficulties.
Creating Competitive Edge
As the offseason unfolds, the decisions made by these elite free agents could shape an exciting season ahead.
There’s much to look forward to in the coming weeks!
