As spring training approaches for the 2025 Major League Baseball season, there remains a wealth of talent in free agency. Here are our top 10 remaining MLB free agents:
1. Alex Bregman, 3B
Age: 30 (3/30/1994)
2024 stats: .265/.315/.453, 26 HR, 3 SB, 4.1 bWAR (Baseball Reference), 4.1 fWAR (FanGraphs)
With notable players like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes off the market, Bregman stands out as the leading free agent remaining this offseason. He has won two World Series titles with the Houston Astros and had stellar seasons between 2018-2019, recording an American League-best 8.9 bWAR in 2019 and a 7.9 bWAR in 2018. Despite not being at his peak, he has maintained a 4-plus WAR level over the last three seasons. Offensively, Bregman has a unique combination of power and an impressive strikeout rate, allowing him to hit at least 23 home runs in each of the last three seasons. Defensively, he’s an excellent third baseman who earned his first Gold Glove in 2024. However, concerns exist, including a decline in slugging and walk rates in recent years, making any long-term contract a potential risk. Rumors suggest that the Astros, Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, and Toronto Blue Jays could be interested in him.
2. Pete Alonso, 1B
Age: 30 (12/7/1994)
2024 stats: .240/.329/.459, 34 HR, 3 SB, 2.6 bWAR, 2.1 fWAR
Alonso’s aspirations of a $200 million contract appear unrealistic given the competitive landscape for first basemen, especially as his offensive prowess has declined over the past two years. His performance suggests he’s a solid 2-3 WAR player for the short term but raises concerns about long-term value. Nevertheless, Alonso remains a powerful hitter, though his 2024 numbers indicate a dip in performance. Like Bregman, a short-term deal might present the best opportunity for teams considering him.
3. Jack Flaherty, SP
Age: 29 (10/15/1995)
2024 stats: 162 IP (28 GS), 3.17 ERA, 3.48 FIP, 194 K, 3.1 bWAR, 3.2 fWAR
Flaherty’s stock has soared after a solid 2024 season, showcasing a return to form reminiscent of his previous success with the Cardinals. His 3.17 ERA in 162 innings with both the Tigers and Dodgers positions him well for a lucrative contract this offseason, especially after his postseason success with the Dodgers.
4. Nick Pivetta, SP
Age: 31 (2/14/1993)
2024 stats: 145 2/3 IP (26 GS), 4.14 ERA, 4.07 FIP, 172 K, 1.8 bWAR, 2.0 fWAR
Pivetta may not have sparkling stats, but he is a reliable starting pitcher with consistent performance over the past four seasons. His ability to generate strikeouts positions him favorably in today’s game.
5. Kenley Jansen, RP
Age: 37 (9/30/1987)
2024 stats: 54 2/3 IP, 3.29 ERA, 3.00 FIP, 27 Saves, 62 K, 1.3 bWAR, 1.4 fWAR
Although not the dominant closer he once was, Jansen remains an effective reliever with a career ERA of 2.57. His experience and strikeout-to-walk ratios make him an appealing option for teams looking for bullpen stability. While his age raises concerns about longevity, a short-term deal would be a smart acquisition for many clubs.
6. David Robertson, RP
Age: 39 (4/9/1985)
2024 stats: 72 IP, 3.00 ERA, 2.65 FIP, 2 Saves, 99 K, 1.7 bWAR, 1.9 fWAR
Similar to Jansen, Robertson is a seasoned reliever proving effective in recent years. Ranked ninth among all relievers in WAR, he offers valuable experience despite the inherent risks associated with his age. He’s expected to command a one-year deal that may present a bargain for teams looking for bullpen depth.
7. Clayton Kershaw, SP
Age: 36 (3/19/1988)
2024 stats: 30 IP, 4.50 ERA, 3.53 FIP, 24 K, -0.3 bWAR, 0.6 fWAR
After undergoing multiple surgeries, Kershaw’s situation is optimistic, hoping to return mid-2025. While injuries raise concerns, his reputation as one of the greatest pitchers may translate into a discounted contract for a team that can afford to wait for his return.
8. Andrew Heaney, SP
Age: 33 (6/5/1991)
2024 stats: 160 IP, 4.28 ERA, 4.04 FIP, 159 K, 0.8 bWAR, 2.2 fWAR
A competent left-handed starter, Heaney could bolster a team’s rotation while also presenting trade value for rebuilding franchises if performing well early in the season.
9. Jose Quintana, SP
Age: 36 (1/24/1989)
2024 stats: 170 1/3 IP, 3.75 ERA, 4.56 FIP, 135 K, 2.5 bWAR, 1.0 fWAR
Despite unsightly peripherals in 2024, Quintana has consistently delivered results for three straight seasons—providing veteran presence either as a backend starter for contenders or a front-line option for rebuilding teams.
10. Jose Iglesias, IF
Age: 35 (1/5/1990)
2024 stats: .337/.381/.448, 4 HR, 6 SB, 3.1 bWAR, 2.5 fWAR
Recognized primarily for his defensive skills, Iglesias has made significant improvements offensively, making him an excellent utility player. While primarily a third base and second base option, he can still fill in at shortstop when necessary, providing value with his defensive abilities and enhanced offensive performance.
