Free Agent Breakdown: Top 25 Players for 2024-25
Rankings based on The Athletic's big board.
1. Juan Soto (COF/DH)
At 26, Juan Soto remains a generational offensive talent, often compared to Ted Williams for good reason. He’s coming off the best offensive season of his career, but his defense in right field and baserunning were subpar. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him transition to DH in the near future, depending on his next team.
Expect Soto to land a record-breaking contract—probably starting with a $6—given his proven track record. The Yankees and Mets seem like the primary suitors, but don't sleep on the Red Sox, Phillies, Blue Jays, and Dodgers. With their financial resources, Soto’s one-dimensional skillset becomes an afterthought. For teams with money to spend, he’s worth every penny.
2. Corbin Burnes (SP)
Burnes is the only proven ace on the market. The former Cy Young winner has silenced critics over the last three years by delivering consistent workloads, averaging nearly 200 innings per season. His dominance, highlighted by an eight-inning, one-run gem in his final 2024 start, makes him the top pitcher for teams looking to contend immediately. Look for the Mets to be all over Burnes as they look to land a frontline starter to anchor their rotation. Wouldn't be surprised if the Giants, Blue Jays, and Red Sox are in on him as well.
3. Roki Sasaki (SP)
The Japanese phenom enters free agency as one of the most exciting arms available. Sasaki boasts a triple-digit fastball, a devastating splitter, and ace potential. If his slider carries over, he'll be one of teh best pitchers in the sport and will only cost a team international pool money and a minor league contract due to MLB posting rules, making him a must-target for every team. His upside rivals—or even exceeds—that of recent standout Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
4. Max Fried (SP)
Fried’s elite groundball rate (59.2%) and ability to induce weak contact make him a solid No. 2 starter for a contender. However, he lacks the swing-and-miss dominance of an ace. While he outperformed his xERA in 2024 (3.64 xERA vs. 3.25 ERA), his profile suggests more of a steady, reliable option than a frontline star. He grew up a Dodgers fan and they would be happy to have him, but also wouldn't be surprised if the Orioles, Braves, Mets, Giants, and Cubs take a run at him as well
5. Blake Snell (SP)
If you miss out on Burnes and want a number 1 starter, Snell is your next-best option. Despite battling injuries, Snell finished the season strong for a second consecutive year, boasting a jaw-dropping 34.7% strikeout rate. He’s likely to command a shorter deal with a high AAV, making him an intriguing target for contenders seeking flexibility. When he's healthy and on, he's one of the best pitchers in the game. I'd like to see the Mets take a run at Snell if they miss out on Burnes but also could see the Yankees, Padres, and Dodgers taking a long look.
6. Willy Adames (SS)
Adames quietly had a fantastic 2024, blending power (32 HRs) with newfound speed (21 SBs). One of the league’s better offensive shortstops, he’s also a plus defender at a premium position. While the Brewers would love to keep him, his price tag likely pushes him out of Milwaukee’s plans. He's also said he's willing to move to second or third base if asked. Look for the Dodgers, Blue Jays (if they trade Bichette), and Braves to be highly interested in him.
7. Alex Bregman (3B/2B)
Bregman’s willingness to switch to second base broadens his appeal, where he would instantly become one of the best offensive options at the position. Though his OBP dipped in 2024, his ability to control the strike zone and limit strikeouts while still providing some slug keeps him valuable. Defensively, his below-average arm strength (which would be nullified by a move to second) has not stopped him from being a plus defender. I think the Astros are going to do everything to keep him in Houston.
8. Pete Alonso (1B)
Alonso didn’t quite match his career averages in 2024, but he still provided power (34 HRs) and clutch performances in the Mets’ playoff run. First base is an offensive position, and Alonso remains one of the best right-handed power bats in the entire league. The Mariners and Nationals would both benefit from a proven slugger
9. Anthony Santander (COF)
Santander exploded for 44 home runs in his walk year, solidifying himself as a premier power bat. While his .235 batting average suggests a tradeoff for power, his strikeout and walk rates remain reasonable and he won't be paid to hit a bunch of singles. As a switch-hitter with fantastic pop, he’s a perfect fallback option for teams missing out on Soto. I would love to see him on the Mariners, but also see the Giants, Padres, and Royals (if they want to open the checkbook) being a good fit for him
10. Jack Flaherty (SP)
Flaherty delivered when it mattered most, starting Game 1 of the World Series for the champions. Concerns about his health faded in 2024, as he pitched 162 innings with elite strikeout numbers. Without a qualifying offer attached, the team who signs Flaherty will get a number 2 starter without having to lose a draft pick or pool money. A return to the Dodgers would probably be his top choice, but the Tigers, Orioles, Cardinals and many other teams should be looking to acquire his services
11. Teoscar Hernández (COF)
Hernández rebounded with a strong offensive year, including a .840 OPS and 33 home runs. His bat was crucial to the Dodgers’ playoff success, and his right-handed power complements their lefty heavy stars. While his defense is below average, his bat should make him a priority for any power-needy contender. The Dodgers should reward him with a long term contract, but the Yankees, Mariners, Giants, Royals, and Guardians are intriguing options as well.
12. Sean Manaea (SP)
A midseason mechanical adjustment turned Manaea into the Mets’ best pitcher down the stretch. His crossfire delivery, reminiscent of Chris Sale, makes him especially effective against lefties. At 32, he’s more of a mid-rotation option but could have No. 2 upside if his mechanics continue to shine.
13. Nathan Eovaldi (SP)
Eovaldi enters free agency at 35, looking for a shorter deal. Though not a frontline starter anymore, he’s been a steady presence for the Rangers over the past two seasons. He profiles as a No. 3 starter on a competitive team.
14. Yusei Kikuchi (SP)
Kikuchi impressed after being traded to the Astros at the deadline, posting a 2.70 ERA and a career-best 3.07 FIP over 60 innings. His WHIP also dipped below 1. At 33, Kikuchi won’t demand a long-term deal, making him a great target for teams seeking a No. 2 or 3 starter with upside. A return to the Astros makes a lotta sense for both parties
15. Christian Walker (1B)
Walker offers a mix of power and defense, making him a more cost-effective alternative to Alonso. An elite glove at first base and consistent power production (20+ HRs for four straight seasons) ensure he’ll draw plenty of interest. Wouldn't be surprised if he signs before Alonso since he's a shorter (and cheaper) commitment.
16. Ha-Seong Kim (SS/2B/3B)
Kim’s defensive versatility and elite strike zone control make him an ideal role player for contenders. While his bat isn’t flashy, his glove and consistency could be a great fit for teams like the Dodgers if they miss on Adames.
17. Jurickson Profar (COF)
Profar broke out in 2024, posting an OPS over 100 points higher than his career average. Though his defense and baserunning are average at best, his newfound offensive prowess makes him a worthy gamble as a middle-order bat.
18. Gleyber Torres (2B)
Despite a rough first half, Torres found his groove after the all star break and throughout the playoffs. Though inconsistent on defense and the basepaths, his offensive upside makes him one of the better-hitting second basemen in the sport. At 28 years old, he could be the steal of Free Agency.
19. Tanner Scott (RP)
Scott emerged as the best reliever available at the trade deadline and enters the offseason as the best arm available. Traded for a significant return at the deadline, his elite fastball and high-leverage experience make him a premium bullpen arm. At just 30, he’s young enough to anchor a bullpen for the next several seasons before his fastball stats to fade.
20. Shane Bieber (SP)
Bieber was injured after just 12 (shutout) innings in 2024 and will miss most of 2025. His velocity has been dipping for a while now, but the ex-Cy Young winner still showed flashes of brilliance in limited action. Expect him to sign a short-term, incentive-laden deal as teams bet on his recovery.
21. Walker Buehler (SP)
Similar to Bieber, Buehler’s health adds uncertainty to his market. He struggled in 2024 but flashed his potential during the postseason. His future might be in the bullpen as a fireman if it'll keep him healthier. Pre-injuries, Buehler looked like a Cy Young contender and hopefully he can get close to that level again.
22. Tyler O’Neill (COF)
When healthy, O’Neill is an impact right-handed bat. In just 113 games for the Red Sox in 2024, he smashed 31 home runs, showcasing his immense power potential. However, durability remains a concern, as he has struggled to stay on the field throughout his career. Look for teams who miss out on Teoscar Hernadez/Santander to look at O'Neill.
23. Luis Severino (SP)
Severino rebounded in 2024, leading the Mets' rotation with a 3.91 ERA after two injury-riddled seasons. While he lacks ace-level dominance, he’s a steady middle-of-the-rotation option with the ability to eat innings. His injury history might hurt his
24. Jeff Hoffman (RP)
Hoffman has quietly become one of the most consistent relievers in baseball. Over the past two seasons, he’s posted ERAs of 2.41 and 2.17, while maintaining elite strikeout and chase rates (96th percentile). He can anchor a bullpen and won't cost as much as Tanner Scott
25. Nick Martinez (SP/RP)
Martinez offers versatility as both a starter and reliever. In 2024, he started 16 games while posting a 3.10 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP. His ability to limit walks and hard contact makes him a great fit as a No. 4 starter with upside. Martinez has accepted the Reds qualifying offer, and will make just over $20m this season.
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