UPDATE: As the MLB offseason heats up, executives are buzzing about where top free agents will land, especially Kyle Tucker, who could command more than $400 million. The urgency is palpable as teams scramble to secure key players before the winter market intensifies after Thanksgiving.
Recent moves have sent shockwaves through the league. The Seattle Mariners kicked off the offseason by re-signing Josh Naylor, while the Los Angeles Angels and Baltimore Orioles executed an early trade. Then, the Texas Rangers and New York Mets escalated the action with a Marcus Semien-for-Brandon Nimmo swap, followed by the Boston Red Sox acquiring Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals earlier this week.
Polls conducted among 16 MLB executives reveal that opinions on Tucker’s potential deal are split. When asked if he would surpass $400 million, six executives said yes while ten said no. The teams most frequently mentioned as possible destinations for Tucker include the New York Yankees (six votes), Los Angeles Dodgers (four votes), and Toronto Blue Jays (three votes).
The stakes are high for Tucker, especially after a season marred by injuries. One executive noted that had he remained healthy, discussions of a $500 million deal would be on the table instead. “I see it at $350 million over ten years,” one executive projected. “My prediction is the Yankees.”
Tucker’s situation highlights a broader theme in the offseason: teams are gearing up for bold moves. The Blue Jays and Mets are expected to be particularly active in pursuing top free agent pitchers. For instance, executives believe Framber Valdez could land with the Blue Jays, while Dylan Cease is favored to join the Mets. The Red Sox are also eyeing Ranger Suarez, who could return to Boston.
In the race for Japanese ace Tatsuya Imai, the San Francisco Giants lead with five votes, followed closely by the Yankees and Dodgers. Imai’s arrival could reshape pitching rosters, especially given his potential to secure a multiyear deal.
As the offseason unfolds, the question of which hitters will remain with their teams also looms large. Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso are projected to stay put, with executives noting the critical roles they play in their respective lineups.
What’s more, the Tigers face a pivotal decision regarding Tarik Skubal. Polling suggests they might let the situation play out, delaying any potential trades or extensions. This cautious approach could backfire if Skubal shines early next season, raising his value significantly.
The landscape is set for a tumultuous offseason filled with high-stakes decisions. With teams like the Pirates and Reds rumored to be more aggressive in the market, the potential for surprising signings and trades is ever-increasing.
The next few weeks will be crucial as teams continue to strategize, and fans eagerly await the next big announcement. Stay tuned for updates as the 2025-26 MLB offseason promises to deliver more dramatic twists and turns.