rankings
As MLB’s 2024-2025 offseason heats up, free agent rankings provide a comprehensive look at players expected to impact the league for years to come. The top of the list features major names like Juan Soto and Blake Snell, who bring elite skills in hitting and pitching, respectively. This ranking includes the top 120 players and evaluates each based on recent performance, age, and potential fit with teams eager to make a splash. rankings
1. Juan Soto, Outfielder
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At the top of this year’s free-agent class, Juan Soto stands out for his blend of power, plate discipline, and consistent offensive production. Soto is only 25, yet he’s already a seasoned MLB star, posting a career .424 OBP and one of the lowest strikeout rates among power hitters. Soto’s bat control and keen eye make him a dangerous force, and he is capable of anchoring a lineup. rankings
Soto’s youth and skillset suggest he could command one of the largest contracts in MLB history. While he’s a defensive liability in the outfield, his offensive production far outweighs his defensive limitations. Teams like the Dodgers, Yankees, and Giants are expected to make serious bids for Soto, viewing him as a transformative presence capable of elevating a roster’s offense for the next decade.
2. Blake Snell, Starting Pitcher rankings
The top pitcher on the market, Blake Snell, enters free agency fresh off a Cy Young-caliber season. Known for his high strikeout rates and unhittable stuff, Snell’s 2023 season showcased his ability to dominate, as he finished with a sub-2.00 ERA and excelled in limiting hard contact. At 31, he’s entering the tail end of his prime but should still command a significant contract, especially given the scarcity of top-tier starting pitchers this offseason. rankings
Snell’s history of inconsistency and occasional control issues are minor concerns. However, teams in need of frontline pitching, like the Cardinals and Red Sox, will likely overlook these concerns, focusing instead on his elite upside. He could be in line for a five- or six-year deal, given his recent performance and relatively limited injury history.
3. Cody Bellinger, Outfielder/First Baseman rankings
Cody Bellinger had a strong comeback season in 2023, hitting .275 with 25+ home runs and reestablishing himself as a versatile threat both offensively and defensively. Bellinger’s ability to play center field and first base adds to his appeal, and his bat has once again shown signs of the MVP-caliber production that defined his early career.
At 29, Bellinger offers teams a multi-year option with solid upside. Clubs like the Cubs (his most recent team), Yankees, and Mariners may all be in play for Bellinger, who could sign a shorter, high-value deal to reestablish his long-term value further or a long-term contract if teams are willing to bank on his sustained comeback.
4. Shohei Ohtani, Designated Hitter rankings
Shohei Ohtani, arguably the most intriguing free agent of the past decade, comes off a historic run as a two-way star. However, an elbow injury has taken him off the mound, limiting him to hitting duties for at least 2024. As a pure hitter, Ohtani remains elite; he has consistently led the league in power metrics and brings incredible value with his base-running and defensive versatility.
While Ohtani’s future as a pitcher remains uncertain, his bat alone makes him a top-tier free agent. Many teams, including the Mets, Dodgers, and Giants, are still expected to make massive offers, possibly front-loaded to account for his time off from pitching. If his arm fully recovers, Ohtani could resume pitching duties in 2025, amplifying his value.
5. Aaron Nola, Starting Pitcher rankings
Aaron Nola’s steady track record makes him one of the most reliable starting pitchers on the market. While his 2023 ERA wasn’t as impressive as his peak seasons, he remains a high-strikeout, low-walk pitcher with a reputation for durability. Nola’s ability to pitch deep into games and manage a high workload will make him especially valuable to teams in need of stability at the top of their rotation.
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