Dodgers spent big before winning big, and the 2025 free-agent class might be even more enticing. Teams are gearing up to make significant investments in talent as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Last offseason, the Ohtani sweepstakes stole headlines, culminating in a staggering $700 million, 10-year contract for the Japanese superstar. While Juan Soto remains a notable name, this year’s free-agent pool could rival last year’s depth, offering teams a chance to enhance their rosters.
Among the prominent players seeking new homes are Soto, Willy Adames, Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Blake Snell, Alex Bregman, and Jack Flaherty. Additionally, a second tier of players, including Hernández, Anthony Santander, Jurickson Profar, Ha-Seong Kim, Pete Alonso, Christian Walker, and Sean Manaea, could provide critical boosts for teams eyeing championship runs.
This week, MLB general managers convene in San Antonio, Texas, marking the unofficial kickoff to the offseason. Although early November discussions rarely yield immediate moves, they often set the stage for future transactions.
Here are key points to monitor as MLB free agency unfolds:
Soto shined as a Yankee, but don’t expect a NY discount
Soto stands out as the premier target in this free-agent class. The four-time All-Star has amassed 201 career home runs and boasts a .421 on-base percentage. He played a pivotal role in leading the New York Yankees to the World Series, even though they fell to the Dodgers in five games.
At just 26 years old, Soto’s future is bright.
The Yankees are eager to retain Soto, who formed a powerful duo with Aaron Judge. However, owner Hal Steinbrenner’s willingness to commit to a contract potentially exceeding $500 million remains uncertain.
Following New York’s disappointing postseason exit, Soto has not indicated a desire for a discount.
“I’m going to be available for all 30 teams,” Soto remarked. “I don’t want to say anybody has any advantage, because at the end of the day, we’re going to look at what they have and how much they want me.”
More Big Apple decisions brewing for the Mets
Pete Alonso has been a cornerstone of the Mets’ lineup for six seasons, hitting 226 home runs. Alongside him, Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and José Quintana are also free agents after playing vital roles in the pitching rotation.
The franchise now faces a critical decision: retain these players, rebuild, or adopt a hybrid approach. The pressure is mounting to improve, especially with the Yankees maintaining their winning momentum.
Fascinating veterans look for late-career resurgence
Veterans like Paul Goldschmidt, Walker Buehler, Shane Bieber, and Carlos Santana are intriguing figures to watch. These players have experienced their share of injuries but have also enjoyed long and successful careers.
Goldschmidt, the 2022 NL MVP for the St. Louis Cardinals, has seen his offensive numbers decline, yet he remains a solid first baseman and a positive clubhouse presence.
Buehler made his return from a second Tommy John surgery this season, showcasing flashes of brilliance, particularly during the World Series, where he threw six scoreless innings against the Yankees to clinch the championship in Game 5.
Superagent Scott Boras will make his presence felt again
Scott Boras, a prominent figure in the world of sports agents, is expected to play a significant role again this offseason. Although last year was not his strongest, he remains a key player in negotiations.
Many of his clients, including Snell, Matt Chapman, Jordan Montgomery, and Cody Bellinger, faced delays in signing contracts, ultimately opting for short-term deals rather than the lucrative long-term contracts they sought.
This offseason, Boras will again represent several high-profile free agents, including Soto, Burnes, Alonso, Snell, and Bregman, making his influence felt across the league.
