The 2024-2025 MLB offseason is seeing significant activity as free agency picks up steam, with numerous talented players signing with new teams to strengthen rosters for the upcoming season. From celebrated catchers to veteran relief pitchers, the free-agent market is impacting team strategies across the league.
Beginning with catchers, notable signings include Kyle Higashioka, who at 35 years old signed a two-year deal with the Texas Rangers on December 2, boasting a solid WAR of 2.9. Others making moves include Travis d'Arnaud (36, WAR: 2.5) who inked a two-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels on November 12, and Danny Jansen (30, WAR: 2.5) who will join the Tampa Bay Rays for one year, finalizing the deal on December 12. The catching market also saw players like Carson Kelly (30), Elias Díaz (34), and Gary Sánchez (32) making strides with new agreements.
First baseman contracts also stirred interest, with Christian Walker (34, WAR: 6.8) signing for three years with the Houston Astros on December 23, asserting his value as one of the market's top players. Another notable signing was veteran Carlos Santana (39), who agreed to join the Cleveland Guardians for one year. The category had other notable names like Pete Alonso declining a qualifying offer and Paul Goldschmidt reportedly reaching for one year with the New York Yankees.
The second base market followed suit with promising deals, including Gleyber Torres (28, WAR: 5.3), who signed with the Detroit Tigers on December 27. Thairo Estrada (29, WAR: 3.9) is also reported to be headed to the Colorado Rockies on a one-year deal. With many teams seeking strength at this position, the influx of veterans like Whit Merrifield and Kyle Farmer also adds depth to the teams.
Shortstops remain highly sought after, highlighted by Willy Adames (29, WAR: 8.0), who locked down a seven-year deal with the San Francisco Giants on December 10. Players like Ha-Seong Kim (29, WAR: 6.9) and Jose Iglesias (35) represent the deep talent pool available for teams aiming to consolidate their defenses and bolster their lineups.
Several third basemen also made waves, with Alex Bregman (31, WAR: 8.6) opting not to accept his qualifying offer, alongside other competitive free agency moves affecting this position. Teams are scrambling to find the right mix of youth and experience.
Moving to the outfield, Juan Soto (26), carrying the impressive WAR of 14.2, has made headlines by signing a staggering 15-year deal with the New York Mets on December 11. This long-term commitment cements Soto's status as one of baseball's premier talents. Other acquired talents include Tyler O’Neill and Michael Conforto, who both signed deals to join new clubs, marking significant shifts for several franchises.
The designated hitter position also saw some key movements. Joc Pederson (33, WAR: 3.7) is expected to join the Texas Rangers with a two-year agreement on the table, showcasing his continued value as one of the power hitters. Andrew McCutchen, now at the age of 38, has signed back with the Pittsburgh Pirates on one year, seeking to impact their lineup.
Starting pitchers are always at the forefront of free agency, and this year is no exception. Blake Snell (32, WAR: 7.2) signed a lucrative five-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on November 30, becoming one of the marquee signings of the offseason. Max Fried (31, WAR: 5.2) followed suit by securing an impressive eight-year deal with the New York Yankees, underscoring the competitive nature of the free-agent market.
Relief pitchers, too, have been on the move, with players like Aroldis Chapman (37) joining the Boston Red Sox for the upcoming season, and veteran Kenley Jansen (37) finalizing details with the same club. With teams aiming to solidify their bullpens, players who can offer experience and skill under pressure are highly valued.
With the array of trades and signings occurring throughout the league, the 2024-2025 MLB free agency period signals substantial shifts within team compositions, potentially altering the competitive balance for the next season. The strategic choices made during this season's offseason will resonate, impacting performance both on and off the field as teams gear up for the new campaign.
