MLB Free Agency Predictions: Top Moves After 2025 Trade Deadline

The MLB 2025 trade deadline is already in the rearview mirror, but this season’s shakeups aren’t over just yet. Now, everyone’s attention shifts to the 2025-26 free agency period, which kicks off just five days after the World Series.

This offseason looks poised to be transformative. A star-studded crop of free agents is set to command attention—and, let’s be honest, massive contracts—from teams desperate to bolster their rosters.

From ace pitchers to home-run sluggers, the market’s full of both established stars and rising talent. Here’s a closer look at the key names, predictions, and what might make this one of the richest, most strategically wild free-agent markets we’ve seen in years.

The Pitching Market: Top Arms Ready for Big Deals

Pitching still sits at the heart of any successful MLB franchise, and this year’s free-agent class brings some fascinating options. Zac Gallen, Dylan Cease, Shane Bieber, and Michael King headline the starters, but there’s a lingering question: who’s actually going to get the mega-deals they want?

Injuries or shaky performances might push some to consider qualifying offers or shorter contracts. Still, the upside for these arms is sky-high if things break right.

Framber Valdez and the Red Sox

Framber Valdez is a name that pops up everywhere in prediction circles, especially when it comes to the Boston Red Sox. Their rotation needs help—badly—so it’s not a stretch to think they’ll chase the top lefty on the market.

Valdez could be looking at a five-year, $160 million deal. That’s a hefty price tag, but it might be what Boston needs to steady their pitching staff.

• Zac Gallen: Legitimate ace, and honestly, Cy Young potential is real.
• Shane Bieber: Consistency is a question, but the talent’s just obvious.
• Michael King: In the right spot, he could really break out.

The Power Hitter Showdown: Sluggers in High Demand

Everyone loves the long ball, right? Teams hunting for power this offseason will have some intriguing choices.

Cody Bellinger, after turning things around, looks set to cash in with a big multi-year deal. He’s reestablished himself as one of the league’s top sluggers.

Eugenio Suárez brings serious pop, though there’s a little worry about his batting average. Still, plenty of teams could use that kind of power.

Kyle Schwarber Stays with the Phillies

Kyle Schwarber, one of the best DHs out there, is expected to stick with the Phillies. He’s probably looking at a four-year, $140 million extension, which keeps his thunderous bat right in the center of Philadelphia’s lineup.

• Cody Bellinger: His comeback year really boosts his value.
• Eugenio Suárez: Power’s not in question, but the strikeouts are a thing.
• Kyle Schwarber: He just keeps mashing homers—one of the best at it.

The Crown Jewel: Kyle Tucker Sparks a Bidding War

Kyle Tucker stands out as the free agent with the most tools and the strongest track record. He’s going to trigger a bidding war—maybe one we haven’t seen in years.

There’s talk that his contract could top $500 million. Tucker’s a true five-tool player: he hits for average and power, swipes bases, and plays sharp defense.

Whoever lands him gets a franchise cornerstone. It’s hard to overstate just how big of a deal his free agency is.

Bo Bichette and the Braves

Bo Bichette could be making a huge move. The Braves are reportedly eyeing him for a six-year, $126 million deal.

Bichette’s bat and glove make him a dream fit for Atlanta’s already stacked roster. He’d give them a long-term answer at shortstop—one of the toughest positions to fill.

Closers and Veterans: Depth Adds Intrigue

This offseason, elite bullpen arms are everywhere. Ryan Helsley, Devin Williams, Raisel Iglesias, and Edwin Díaz headline a crowded closer market.

With so many options, contracts for closers might not be as wild as usual. But if your team needs a ninth-inning guy, there’s no shortage of choices.

Veterans like Alex Bregman are also in the mix. He could join the Detroit Tigers on a four-year, $128 million deal, adding another layer of intrigue to the market.

With so much depth across positions, teams with cash to spend will have plenty of chances to upgrade. It’s going to be a wild ride, no doubt.

Which Teams Are Poised to Make a Splash?

Plenty of teams will get active this offseason, but only a handful really feel ready to spend big. The Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, and Boston Red Sox jump out as clubs with both the money and the roster holes to chase headline free agents.

The Orioles might go after Ranger Suárez with a projected four-year, $104 million deal. That would give their rotation a real boost. Meanwhile, the Braves seem likely to target Bo Bichette to strengthen their lineup.

Honestly, this offseason could be the most captivating we’ve seen in a while. Marquee names, wild bidding wars, and those crazy, game-changing deals—there’s a good chance the 2025-26 free agency period keeps fans and analysts glued to the rumor mill all winter.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Way-Too-Early MLB Free-Agency Predictions Post-2025 Trade Deadline