The upcoming MLB free-agent classes include some of the league’s most influential stars. Here’s how players like Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and Corbin Burnes could transform teams and impact the league.
Juan Soto – Outfielder
At just 26, Juan Soto is already one of baseball’s most complete hitters. With elite plate discipline and power, he’s a generational talent. Soto brings an OPS over .900 and the ability to consistently deliver in high-pressure moments.
Possible Suitors: The Yankees are likely frontrunners, as they need left-handed power to complement Aaron Judge. The Cubs, on the rise with a mix of youth and experience, could also pursue Soto to solidify their lineup.
Impact: On the Yankees, Soto could form a devastating duo with Judge, creating an unparalleled 1-2 punch in the AL East. On the Cubs, Soto would elevate their playoff hopes, turning them into legitimate contenders.
Pete Alonso – 1st Baseman
A consistent power threat, Alonso has hit 40+ home runs in multiple seasons and serves as a clubhouse leader. His ability to produce runs makes him invaluable for teams needing offensive reinforcement.
Possible Suitors: The Mets will try to keep him, but the Giants and Red Sox are logical fits. San Francisco’s spacious ballpark could benefit from Alonso’s gap-to-gap power.
Impact: Alonso would give the Giants the middle-of-the-order bat they’ve lacked, while Boston could use him to reinvigorate their offensive identity after recent struggles.
Alex Bregman – 3rd Baseman
A postseason-tested performer with Gold Glove-caliber defense at third base, Bregman has proven he can lead under pressure. His ability to hit for power and average makes him a versatile option.
Possible Suitors: The Mariners and Phillies both need upgrades at third base. The Mariners would gain a leader for their young core, while the Phillies could see Bregman thrive alongside Bryce Harper.
Impact: A Mariners-Bregman pairing could close the gap with the Astros in the AL West. On the Phillies, Bregman would add another layer to their already potent lineup, boosting their championship chances.
Corbin Burnes – Starting Pitcher
The 2021 NL Cy Young winner brings unmatched command and strikeout ability. A proven ace, Burnes is a game-changer for teams lacking a top-of-the-rotation arm.
Possible Suitors: The Cardinals desperately need an ace and could make Burnes their centerpiece. The Dodgers, perennial World Series contenders, also have the resources to sign him.
Impact: Burnes on the Cardinals would make them immediate NL Central favorites, giving them a reliable arm in must-win games. On the Dodgers, Burnes would ensure their pitching staff remains one of the league’s best.
Blake Snell – Starting Pitcher
After one of the best seasons of his career, Snell remains a dominant force on the mound. His Cy Young-caliber 2024 showcased his ability to perform in big games.
Possible Suitors: The Rangers, fresh off postseason success, and the Yankees, in need of reliable starters, are likely contenders.
Impact: For the Rangers, Snell would help maintain their status as World Series threats. For the Yankees, his addition could stabilize their inconsistent rotation and give them an edge in October.
Teoscar Hernández – Outfielder
Hernández brings consistent power and defensive reliability in the outfield, making him a perfect fit for teams needing depth.
Possible Suitors: The Blue Jays may seek a reunion, while the Cubs could see Hernández as an upgrade in the corner outfield.
Impact: Hernández would solidify the Cubs’ lineup, giving them much-needed offensive depth. A return to the Blue Jays could bolster their postseason hopes as they aim for AL East supremacy.
Anthony Santander – Outfielder
A switch-hitter with power and defensive versatility, Santander is an underrated gem. His ability to play all three outfield positions makes him invaluable for contenders.
Possible Suitors: The Braves and Mariners are ideal fits. Atlanta would value Santander’s offensive consistency, while the Mariners need his experience in high-leverage situations.
Impact: Santander on the Braves could make their lineup virtually unstoppable. On the Mariners, he’d provide leadership and a much-needed bat in tight games, and especially being in the lineup with Julio Rodriguez and Randy Arozarena, the Mariners will be more dangerous than ever.
Max Fried – Starting Pitcher
Fried, one of the most consistent left-handed starters in MLB, offers both postseason experience and regular-season dominance.
Possible Suitors: The Orioles could use Fried to anchor their young rotation, while the Braves will likely fight to retain him.
Impact: Fried on the Orioles would fast-track their development into serious contenders in the AL East. On the Braves, he’d continue to lead one of baseball’s top rotations.
Shane Bieber – Starting Pitcher
Though injuries have tempered his production, Bieber remains an ace when healthy. His ability to command the strike zone makes him a sought-after target.
Possible Suitors: The Cardinals and Angels are logical fits. The Cardinals need a high-end arm, while the Angels could benefit from his veteran presence.
Impact: Bieber on the Angels would give them a much-needed frontline starter to pair with their offensive stars. For the Cardinals, Bieber could provide stability in a rotation that’s struggled to compete in the NL Central.
This free-agent pool has the potential to reshape the MLB landscape. With generational talents like Soto and reliable stars like Burnes and Bregman available, teams will have the chance to fill critical gaps. The 2024-2025 offseason could define the next decade of baseball.
