ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel just dropped his new rankings and contract projections for the MLB’s 2025–26 free agent class. The buzz is real—he’s estimating total spending will blow past $3.5 billion, so this offseason might be one for the record books.
His analysis factors in projected guaranteed contracts and posting fees for international stars. The headliners are obvious: Kyle Tucker, Framber Valdez, and Cody Bellinger. Still, you’ll also spot a few intriguing names from overseas and some sluggers with specialized skills that’ll have big-market teams circling.
The Billion-Dollar Free Agent Class
McDaniel’s projections highlight just how stacked this market is. Front offices have tough choices ahead—balancing long-term deals with concerns about age, health, and their roster gaps.
The Cubs, Mets, Yankees, and Dodgers? They’re all likely to dive in, thanks to flexible payrolls and a hunger for another title run.
Kyle Tucker’s Historic Projection
At the top of the heap, there’s Kyle Tucker. His power, patience at the plate, and solid defense have vaulted him into the game’s elite.
McDaniel thinks the Cubs could shell out an 11-year, $418 million contract for him—a move that’d shake up the entire National League. Tucker even ranks ahead of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who just inked an extension with Toronto. That says it all about Tucker’s market clout.
Framber Valdez: Durability Meets Control
Valdez stands out as a durable, ground-ball focused lefty, making him appealing even at 32. McDaniel projects six years, $168 million for him.
He brings stability to any rotation and consistently shuts down power hitters with his command. For contenders, Valdez looks like a postseason workhorse worth chasing.
Cody Bellinger’s Rebound Value
Bellinger’s versatility and bounce-back season have him in line for a six-year, $165 million payday. His market value really depends on whether teams buy his recent offensive turnaround.
He’s one of the offseason’s most intriguing wild cards.
The Consistent Excellence of Alex Bregman
After opting out of his last deal, Alex Bregman is projected to snag five years, $160 million. His steady offense and leadership make him a safe bet for any team looking to shore up the infield.
The International Factor
McDaniel’s list doesn’t just stick to domestic stars. International talent could shake up the whole offseason.
The posting system still opens the door for overseas players to cash in big.
Tatsuya Imai’s Rising Stock
From Japan’s Seibu Lions, Tatsuya Imai could land six years, $135 million and a $22 million posting fee. His command keeps improving, and at his age, he’s got real upside.
Teams ready to navigate the international process will see Imai as a high-reward bet.
Dylan Cease: Steady but Effective
Cease has put up steady numbers, even if his command wobbles at times. He’s in line for a five-year, $145 million contract.
His durability in a tough role gives him a strong free agent profile.
Youthful Upside and Pure Power
Among the younger crowd, Bo Bichette stands out for his offensive ceiling. The power market, though, is all about two names fans know for their jaw-dropping home runs.
Bo Bichette’s Balanced Profile
Bichette’s youth and bat help offset his defensive questions, leading to a five-year, $130 million projection. He’s the type of hitter teams want leading off or hitting second.
Schwarber & Alonso: Power Over Defense
Kyle Schwarber is projected at four years, $128 million. Pete Alonso could get four years, $110 million.
Both bring serious home run power but don’t offer much with the glove. Teams hunting for offense above all else will be lining up for these two.
Key Takeaways
McDaniel’s breakdown points to the 2025–26 free agent class as possibly one of MLB’s biggest spending sprees ever. Teams look ready to pour money into proven stars, rebound hopefuls, young talent, and international surprises.
Get ready for high-profile bidding wars. We could see several rosters completely reshaped this winter.
- Total projected spending: $3.5 billion+
- Top projected deal: Kyle Tucker, 11 years, $418 million
- Notable international entry: Tatsuya Imai with $22 million posting fee
- Power market headliners: Kyle Schwarber & Pete Alonso
Here is the source article for this story: Your guide to MLB free agency: Rankings and contract projections for the top 50 free agents
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