With the Winter Meetings behind us and the new year creeping up, the MLB offseason is still in full swing, but several top free agents remain unsigned. These players could significantly impact contending teams heading into the 2026 season. Out of the remaining free agents, here are the top five…where could they sign? Let’s take a deeper look.
Where MLB’s Top 5 Remaining Free Agents Could Land
1. Kyle Tucker, Outfielder
Kyle Tucker is the clear top free agent available, offering elite five-tool skills. In 2025, he hit .266/.377/.464 with 22 home runs despite some injuries, earning a Silver Slugger and posting a 143 OPS+. His combination of power, speed, defense, and on-base ability makes him worth a massive long-term deal, potentially 10 years and $400+ million.
The Toronto Blue Jays are the frontrunners to land the soon-to-be 29-year-old. Pairing Tucker with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. would create a fearsome lineup and signal Toronto’s commitment to winning. The Jays have the financial flexibility and a clear need for outfield production to boost their AL East chances. Other teams like the Philadelphia Phillies or San Francisco Giants could jump in, but Toronto’s urgency makes them the most realistic destination.
2. Alex Bregman, Third Baseman
Alex Bregman, a proven winner and former World Series champion, opted out of his deal with the Boston Red Sox after a strong 2025 (.273/.360/.462, 18 homers in 114 games). His leadership, elite defense, and consistent bat make him an ideal fit at third base for any contender.
A return to the Boston Red Sox seems highly likely. Boston wants to keep him for his clubhouse presence and to allow Marcelo Mayer to stay at second base while improving infield defense. A five-year, $155 million deal could be in play. If not Boston, the Blue Jays have shown interest as they look to solidify their infield.
3. Bo Bichette, Shortstop
Bo Bichette brings elite contact skills and power, highlighted by his .311/.357/.483 line in 2025 and a memorable World Series home run. At 27, he’s a long-term building block, though his defense might eventually shift him to second or third base.
The Detroit Tigers are a strong suitor, reportedly offering an eight-year, $208 million contract to anchor their young core and accelerate their rise to contention. Detroit needs a star middle infielder, and Bichette fits perfectly. The San Francisco Giants could also pursue him to upgrade second base, where his bat-to-ball skills would shine. The Red Sox have held preliminary talks as well.
An @JeffPassan article names Bo Bichette as the Tigers “perfect transaction”👀
Do you agree?🤔 pic.twitter.com/ylLrSYVJC6
— SleeperTigers (@SleeperTigers) November 11, 2025
4. Framber Valdez, Starting Pitcher
Framber Valdez remains a durable, high-end starter. In 2025, he posted a 3.66 ERA over 31 starts with two complete games, showcasing his elite ground ball tendencies and postseason experience.
The New York Mets have met with Valdez and appear ready to offer a five-year, $160 million deal to add a frontline starter to their rotation. The Giants and Baltimore Orioles have also shown interest, but the Mets’ aggressive spending under owner Steve Cohen makes them the favorite. The Chicago Cubs are another logical fit, as Valdez’s grounder-heavy style would pair well with their infield defense.
5. Cody Bellinger, Outfielder/First Baseman
Cody Bellinger had a strong 2025 with the New York Yankees, hitting .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs and Gold Glove-caliber defense across multiple positions. His versatility and left-handed power make him a valuable multi-positional player.
A return to the New York Yankees is a real possibility, with Aaron Judge reportedly pushing for a reunion on a six-year, $150 million deal. Yankee Stadium suits his swing, and he thrived there in 2025. However, the crosstown New York Mets are also heavily involved, seeing Bellinger as a perfect fit to strengthen their outfield and first base while adding flexibility.
With the offseason heating up and teams finalizing rosters, these players could be signed soon. Any of them could dramatically shift the balance of power in their divisions for 2026. A massive deal for any of these free agents could break at anytime.
Main Photo Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
