{"id":111829,"date":"2026-01-08T21:51:10","date_gmt":"2026-01-09T02:51:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/?p=111829"},"modified":"2026-01-08T22:15:12","modified_gmt":"2026-01-09T03:15:12","slug":"2026-mlb-arbitration-tracker-complete-list-of-deadline-day-settlements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/2026\/01\/08\/2026-mlb-arbitration-tracker-complete-list-of-deadline-day-settlements\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 MLB Arbitration Tracker: Complete List of Deadline Day Settlements"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">MLB\u2019s Arbitration deadline has officially passed, culminating in a flurry of activity that saw dozens of arbitration-eligible players reach one-year and multi-year contract agreements with their clubs. The annual mid-January deadline serves as the final opportunity for teams and players to settle on a salary for the upcoming season before exchanging figures and proceeding to a potential formal hearing. Below is a breakdown of all the arbitration settlements reported across Major League Baseball.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arizona Diamondbacks (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Alek Thomas &#8211; $1.96 Million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Gold Glove-caliber center fielder settled for just under $2 million in his first year of eligibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Athletics (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Shea Langeliers &#8211; $5.1M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The heavy-hitting catcher reached a settlement today, January 8, for $5.1 million, avoiding a hearing after a strong 2025 campaign behind the plate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Atlanta Braves (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Braves had just one player, Dylan Lee, who was eligible for arbitration. The two sides were not able to come to an agreement Thursday and will go to arbitration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Baltimore Orioles (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Taylor Ward &#8211; $12.175M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired in a blockbuster trade for Grayson Rodriguez in November, Ward settled for over $12 million to serve as Baltimore\u2019s primary left fielder.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Gunnar Henderson &#8211; $8.5M\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In his first year of arbitration eligibility, the superstar shortstop secured a massive raise following his continued dominance at the plate and in the field.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Adley Rutschman &#8211; $7.25M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The face of the franchise locked in a $7.25 million salary, a significant jump that reflects his status as one of the game&#8217;s premier catchers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Dean Kremer &#8211; $5.75M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A reliable rotation staple, Kremer agreed to $5.75 million to help anchor the middle of the Orioles&#8217; starting staff.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tyler Wells &#8211; $2.445M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The versatile right-hander reached a deal just under $2.5 million as he continues to serve as a vital swingman for the pitching staff.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boston Red Sox (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_60517\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-60517\" style=\"width: 687px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-60517\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"red sox vs tigers\" width=\"687\" height=\"458\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2023\/08\/USATSI_21168495_168400534_lowres.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 687px) 100vw, 687px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-60517\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Kutter Crawford. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Tanner Houck &#8211; $4.15M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Houck settled for $4.15 million today; however, he is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2026 season following hybrid UCL repair surgery in August.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Kutter Crawford &#8211; $2.75M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following a season lost to knee and wrist injuries, Crawford agreed to a $2.75 million deal earlier this week, matching his salary from the previous year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Triston Casas &#8211; $1.61M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite a 2025 campaign largely derailed by injury, Casas received a raise to $1.61 million as he looks to reclaim his spot at first base.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Romy Gonzalez &#8211; $1.6M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The versatile utility man settled for $1.6 million today, coming in slightly below early industry projections.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Johan Oviedo &#8211; $1.55M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired from the Pirates in December, the right-hander avoided a hearing with his new club by settling for $1.55 million.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chicago Cubs (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Justin Steele &#8211; $6.775M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cubs&#8217; de facto ace reached a settlement slightly above his projections as he continues his rehab from elbow surgery; he is expected to return to the rotation by the first half of the 2026 season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Edward Cabrera &#8211; $4.45M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired in a major trade from the Marlins Tuesday, the hard-throwing righty arrived with his 2026 salary already essentially set via the arbitration process.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Javier Assad &#8211; $2.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The versatile &#8220;swingman&#8221; avoided a hearing by agreeing to an even $2 million, providing the Cubs with a reliable starting or long-relief option.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chicago White Sox (By Aaron Shamilov)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Derek Hill &#8211; $900K<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After an injury-riddled season with the Marlins and White Sox, Hill will look to rebound with Chicago in 2026. The speedy outfielder produced plus-five Outs Above Average and slashed .216\/.281\/.328 in 2025.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cincinnati Reds (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_101654\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-101654\" style=\"width: 701px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-101654\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"701\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26358554-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 701px) 100vw, 701px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-101654\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Brady Singer.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Brady Singer &#8211; $12.75M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired by the Reds in November 2024, Singer was one of the more consistent starters in the Reds rotation in 2025. In the final year of his contract, Singer looks to build off a decent first season in Cincinnati.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Nick Lodolo &#8211; $4.725M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the backbones of the Reds rotation, Lodolo secures a salary just under $5M.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tony Santillan &#8211; $1.8M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The high-leverage reliever settled for 1.8 million to remain a core late-inning option for the Reds bullpen.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Will Benson &#8211; 1.725M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benson avoided arbitration by agreeing to just over $1.7 million as he looks to provide power and speed to the 2026 outfield.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>TJ Friedl &#8211; $3,800,000<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The primary center fielder agreed to a $3.8 million deal following a 2025 season where he maintained a strong .364 on-base percentage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Gavin Lux &#8211; $5,525M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The infielder received the largest raise among position players today. Lux is expected to serve as a utility infielder for the 2026 campaign.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Spencer Steer &#8211; 4M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A 2025 Gold Glove finalist at first base, Steer settled for $4 million after hitting 21 home runs last season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Matt McLean &#8211; 2.3M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seen as the Reds primary second baseman going into opening day, McLean is set to earn 2.3M in his first try in arbitration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cleveland Guardians (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Steven Kwan &#8211; $7.725M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Gold Glove outfielder locked in a $7.725 million deal today. While he remains a cornerstone of the lineup, his name continues to surface in trade rumors as Cleveland evaluates his long-term future.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Nick Sandlin &#8211; $2.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sandlin settled Thursday at the $2 million mark, continuing his role as a reliable middle-relief option.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colorado Rockies (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_101618\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-101618\" style=\"width: 701px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-101618\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Rockies outfielder Brenton Doyle is garnering trade interest from several teams at the Winter Meetings.\" width=\"701\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26303550_168400885_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 701px) 100vw, 701px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-101618\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Brenton Doyle. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Mickey Moniak &#8211; $4M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After a career year featuring 24 home runs and 68 RBIs, the former first-round pick agreed to a $4 million deal to remain a primary power threat in the outfield.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Brenton Doyle &#8211; $3.1M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doyle, known for his elite defensive range, secured a $3.1 million contract as he looks to anchor the outfield for at least four more seasons.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Ryan Feltner &#8211; $2.45M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following a 2025 season hampered by a back injury, the right-hander settled for $2.45 million and will look to reclaim his spot in the starting rotation this spring.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jimmy Herget &#8211; $1.55M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming off one of the best statistical seasons of any Rockies pitcher (2.48 ERA in 59 games), the veteran reliever settled on a $1.55 million figure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tyler Freeman &#8211; $1.525M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The versatile infielder\/outfielder reached a settlement of just over $1.5 million after a solid 110-game campaign where he posted a .281 batting average.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Brennan Bernadino &#8211; $925,000<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The versatile infielder\/outfielder reached a settlement of just over $1.5 million after a solid 110-game campaign where he posted a .281 batting average.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Detroit Tigers (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_101763\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-101763\" style=\"width: 677px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-101763\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Tigers ace Tarik Skubal could be on the trade block before he hits free agency next offseason.\" width=\"677\" height=\"451\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/06\/USATSI_26395163_168400885_lowres.jpg 1586w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 677px) 100vw, 677px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-101763\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image ofTarik Skubal. Credit: \u00a9 Junfu Han \/ USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Casey Mize &#8211; $6.15M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The former first-overall pick avoided a hearing by settling for $6.15 million, solidifying his role as a key rotation anchor following a strong 2025 bounce-back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Riley Greene &#8211; $5.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In his first year of eligibility, Greene settled for an even $5 million, a significant value for the Tigers after he posted a massive 36-homer, 111-RBI campaign last season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Zach McKinstry &#8211; $4.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The super-utility man, coming off an All-Star season where he provided 19 steals and 12 home runs, locked in a $4.2 million deal to likely serve as the starting third baseman.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Spencer Torkelson &#8211; $4.075M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Torkelson reached a settlement just above $4 million, providing cost certainty at first base as he looks to continue his power development.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Will Vest &#8211; $3.95M\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A staple of the Detroit bullpen, Vest agreed to just under $4 million to remain a high-leverage option in the late innings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Kerry Carpenter &#8211; $3.275M\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The left-handed slugger settled for $3.275 million, ensuring his powerful bat remains in the heart of the order for 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tyler Holton &#8211; $1.75M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reliable southpaw settled for $1.75 million today, reinforcing his status as one of the most versatile and cost-effective left-handed weapons in the AL Central.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notably, the Tigers were not able to settle with Ace Tarik Skubal. The two sides will head to an arbitration hearing if an agreement is not reached prior. The Tigers have had conversations about trading Skubal this offseason, but the asking price from the Tigers has been outlandish and teams have not been willing to match. The sides not coming to an agreement might affect his free agent negotiations with the Tigers.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Houston Astros (By Matthew Nethercott and Maanav Gupta)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_111423\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-111423\" style=\"width: 780px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-111423\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27051024-2-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-111423\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of a Houston Astros hat and ball glove in the dug out during a game. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Hitters<\/h3>\n<p><b>Nick Allen &#8211; $1.4M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired in the Mauricio Dub\u00f3n trade with Atlanta, Allen settled on a modest deal to serve as the team\u2019s primary utility infielder. The reason why the Astros traded for Allen was to save money and have more payroll flexibility. That\u2019s exactly what they get in this deal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jake Meyers &#8211; $3.55M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The defensive specialist in center field received a raise after another steady season as the club&#8217;s primary fly-catcher. Meyers was in trade rumors earlier and it&#8217;s a good sign the Astros have locked him up for another year after his best season since his debut year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jeremy Pe\u00f1a &#8211; $9.475M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The star shortstop earned a major payday following his best statistical season since his 2022 rookie campaign. Pe\u00f1a<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">emerged as an MVP for the offense and is one of their most important players, so this deal is a big win for the Astros.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jes\u00fas S\u00e1nchez &#8211; $6.8M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired at the 2025 deadline, S\u00e1nchez settled for nearly $7M to serve as a middle-of-the-order threat in the outfield. The Astros are clearly hoping S\u00e1nchez can bring them some more offense this year.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Pitchers<\/h3>\n<p><b>Steven Okert &#8211; $2.325M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The veteran lefty solidified his spot in the middle-relief corps with a deal slightly above industry projections.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bennett Sousa &#8211; $910K<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The southpaw reliever agreed to a deal just above the league minimum as he looks to return from a late-season injury. Sousa had turned into a reliable arm out of the bullpen with a 5-1 record and 2.84 ERA in over 50 innings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Hunter Brown &#8211; $5.71M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming off a dominant 2025 where he finished 3rd in Cy Young voting, the young ace locked in his first arbitration deal as the staff&#8217;s new leader. After struggling out of the gate in 2025, Brown has bounced back and firmly established himself as one of the best young starters in the game.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Hayden Wesneski &#8211; $975K<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite undergoing Tommy John surgery that will sideline him for most of 2026, the Astros showed commitment by settling at just under $1M. The Houston native could come back in August, and it would be quite a steal to get quality innings out of him given the deal made.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bryan Abreu &#8211; $5.85M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The high-leverage reliever secured a significant raise to anchor the back of the bullpen alongside Josh Hader.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Astros were not able to come to an agreement to a deal with 3B Issac Parades or C Yainer Diaz. The sides will head to an arbitration hearing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kansas City Royals (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>John Schreiber &#8211; $4.0M<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A key high-leverage arm for Matt Quatraro, Schreiber settled for an even $4 million to anchor the middle innings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bailey Falter &#8211; $3.25M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Settled at $3.25 million, Falter remains a valuable, cost-controlled left-handed option for the starting rotation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Kyle Isbel &#8211; $3.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The defensive standout in center field agreed to a $3 million deal for his second year of arbitration eligibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Nick Mears &#8211; $1.5M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired from the Brewers in December, Mears quickly settled on a $1.5 million figure with his new club.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Daniel Lynch IV &#8211; $1.25M\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The former first-round pick settled for $1.25 million as he competes for a versatile role on the pitching staff.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Michael Massey &#8211; $1.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Massey reached a deal at the $1 million mark to serve as a key left-handed bat and defensive utility piece.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Los Angeles Angels (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_94111\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-94111\" style=\"width: 697px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-94111\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/01\/USATSI_24077172_168400885_lowres-300x210.jpg\" alt=\"Jo Adell showed flashes of brilliance during an up-and-down 2024 season. Can he take the next step in 2025?\" width=\"697\" height=\"488\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/01\/USATSI_24077172_168400885_lowres-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/01\/USATSI_24077172_168400885_lowres-1024x717.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/01\/USATSI_24077172_168400885_lowres-768x538.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/01\/USATSI_24077172_168400885_lowres-1536x1075.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/01\/USATSI_24077172_168400885_lowres-2048x1433.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-94111\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Jo Adell. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Jo Adell &#8211; $5.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The outfielder locked in a $5.2 million deal for the 2026 season. This agreement provides a significant raise for Adell as he continues to be a core part of the Angels&#8217; outfield rotation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Zach Neto &#8211; $4.15M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following a historic 2025 campaign where he established himself as one of the league&#8217;s top young shortstops, Neto reached a $4.15 million settlement. As a &#8220;Super Two&#8221; eligible player, this deal marks his first major arbitration payday.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jose Soriano &#8211; $2.9M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.9 million contract to avoid a hearing. Soriano is expected to serve as a foundational piece of the 2026 rotation after a solid performance last year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Logan O&#8217;Hoppe &#8211; $2.625M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Angels&#8217; primary catcher settled for $2.625 million today. Entering his first year of arbitration eligibility, O&#8217;Hoppe&#8217;s deal secures the backstop as a vital leader for the young roster.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Brock Burke &#8211; $2.325M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The left-handed reliever reached a settlement at $2.325 million. Burke remains a reliable, cost-effective weapon in the Angels&#8217; bullpen for the upcoming season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Angels were unable to come to an agreement with pitcher Reid Detmers and the sides will go to arbitration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Los Angeles Dodgers (By Katherine Wacker)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_97424\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-97424\" style=\"width: 722px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-97424\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Anthony Banda is one of two key Dodgers relievers now out of minor league options.\" width=\"722\" height=\"481\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/03\/USATSI_25446334_168400885_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 722px) 100vw, 722px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-97424\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Anthony Banda. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Brusdar Gaterol &#8211; 2.8 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Los Angeles Dodgers right-handed reliever missed most of 2024 with injuries and all of 2025 due to major shoulder surgery. When healthy, Gaterol is used in high-leverage situations. He has a career Earned Run Average of 2.78.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Alex Call &#8211; $1.6 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alex Call was acquired by Los Angeles at the 2025 Trade Deadline from the Washington Nationals to supplement their outfield depth, and will play a similar role in 2026. He hit for a .270 batting average and had five home runs last season<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Brock Stewart &#8211; $1.3 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brock Stewart was acquired by the Dodgers last season from the Minnesota Twins. Stewart, who was originally drafted by Los Angeles, was slated to be a high-leverage option before an injury derailed his season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Anthony Banda &#8211; 1,625,000<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anthony Banda has been one of the unsung heroes of the Dodgers relief core. Since being traded from the Washington Nationals in 2023, he is one of the most dependable left-handed options. In 2025, Banda pitched 65 innings and had an Earned Run Average of 3.18<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Miami Marlins (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Max Meyer &#8211; $1,250,000<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The young right-hander, a former first-round pick, reached a settlement for $1.25 million for his first year of arbitration eligibility. After an injury-hampered 2025, Meyer is expected to be a foundational piece of the Marlins&#8217; 2026 starting rotation alongside Sandy Alcantara.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Andrew Nardi &#8211; $850,000<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The left-handed reliever settled on an $850,000 deal for the 2026 season. Nardi looks to return to his high-leverage form after missing the majority of the 2025 campaign due to lower back inflammation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Milwaukee Brewers (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Garrett Mitchell &#8211; $950,000<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The outfielder reached a settlement after missing most of 2025 following shoulder surgery; his status for the start of the 2026 season remains unclear as he continues to recover.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Brice Turang &#8211; $4.15M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following an exceptional 2025 season where he hit .288 with 50 stolen bases, the &#8220;Super Two&#8221; second baseman secured over $4 million and is expected to start for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Andrew Vaughn &#8211; $7.65M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After thriving in Milwaukee following a 2025 trade from the White Sox, Vaughn locked in a substantial raise to remain the Brewers&#8217; everyday first baseman.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Trevor Megill &#8211; $4.7M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The hard-throwing right-hander received a nearly $3 million raise after a stellar 30-save campaign in 2025, though he remains a potential trade candidate given the team&#8217;s bullpen depth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Angel Zerpa &#8211; $1.095M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired via trade from Kansas City, the southpaw settled for just over $1 million and will compete for either a rotation spot or a high-leverage relief role this spring.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minnesota Twins (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Ryan Jeffers &#8211; $6.7M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The starting catcher secured a significant jump from his $4.5 million salary in 2025 after a season where he posted a .266 average with 47 RBIs. Jeffers is entering his final year of team control and will become an unrestricted free agent next winter if no extension is reached.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bailey Ober &#8211; $5.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming off a season where he recorded 120 strikeouts, the 30-year-old right-hander received a raise to $5.2 million. The Twins maintain one more year of team control over Ober following this settlement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Trevor Larnach &#8211; $4.475M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Larnach more than doubled his 2025 salary after hitting 17 home runs for the club last year. He remains under team control through the 2027 season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Royce Lewis &#8211; $2.85M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite dealing with various injuries that limited him to 106 games in 2025, Lewis earned a raise from his $1.625 million previous mark. The 26-year-old third baseman hit 13 home runs and stole a career-high 12 bases during his 2025 campaign.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notably, the Twins did not settle with ace pitcher Joe Ryan. Ryan was part of trade talks at the 2025 trade deadline, but was not dealt. The Twins are looking to keep their ace this offseason, but will need to start with an arbitration hearing.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New York Mets (By Aaron Shamilov and Jason Petrucci)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_71985\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-71985\" style=\"width: 683px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-71985\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"683\" height=\"455\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/04\/USATSI_22943575_168403884_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-71985\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of a Mets celebration. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Hitters<\/h3>\n<p><b>Francisco Alvarez &#8211; $2.4 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alvarez enters his first year of arbitration at just 24 years of age. After returning in the second-half of the 2025 season from an injury, he posted a 157 wRC+ (13th-best) and amassed a 1.5 fWAR. The former first-round draft pick will look to solidify himself as the team\u2019s long-term everyday catcher in 2026.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Luis Torrens &#8211; $2.275 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signed in May of 2024, Torrens quickly established himself as the Mets\u2019 backup catcher. Torrens is in his third and final year of arbitration and will be a free agent following the season. In 2025, the 29-year-old posted a .226\/.284\/,345 slash line across 261 at-bats, with five home runs, 29 RBI\u2019s, and a .629 OPS. Known as a defensive-first catcher, Torrens led the National League in Caught Stealing percentage with 43%.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tyrone Taylor &#8211; $3.8 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tyrone Taylor was David Stearns\u2019 first significant trade as Mets president of baseball operations back in December of 2023. The former Brewer has spent the last two seasons with the club, primarily serving as the everyday center fielder in 2025.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Pitchers<\/h3>\n<p><b>David Peterson &#8211; $8.1 million\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first-time All-Star surprised many last season by proving he could be a key piece of the Mets\u2019 rotation. The 30-year-old built off a strong 2024 campaign, posting a 3.06 ERA with 93 strikeouts in 109 innings before fading in the second half. Peterson is expected to return to the rotation in 2026 in a middle-of-the-rotation role with promising stuff.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Huascar Brazoban &#8211; $1.05 million\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Huascar Brazoban is expected to return to the Mets bullpen in a similar role as last season. The former Marlins reliever posted a career-best 3.57 ERA across 63 innings with 57 strikeouts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tylor Megill &#8211; $2.5 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The unsung April hero was the first Mets pitcher to reach arbitration on deadline day. Although Megill is not expected to pitch in 2026 due to Tommy John surgery, he is projected to return in 2027 as a potential multi-inning reliever, a role that could be crucial to the bullpen\u2019s future success.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Reed Garrett &#8211; $1.3 million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reed Garrett emerged as a high-leverage arm over the past two seasons, playing a key role in the Mets\u2019 2024 playoff run. He was less effective in 2025, posting a 3.90 ERA with 64 strikeouts, and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Garrett could return in 2027 as a bullpen piece.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">New York Yankees (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_84960\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-84960\" style=\"width: 743px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-84960\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"743\" height=\"495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2024\/09\/USATSI_24155764_168403884_lowres.jpg 1736w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 743px) 100vw, 743px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-84960\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Jazz Chisholm Jr. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Hitters<\/h3>\n<p><b>Jazz Chisholm Jr. &#8211; 10.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The All-Star second baseman becomes the 7th player to reach an arbitration agreement over 10 million. The versatile defender with pop looks to prove his true worth in his walk year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Anthony Volpe &#8211; $3M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The former first round pick, Volpe has underperformed to this stage of his MLB career. Volpe will begin the season on the IL recovering from a shoulder injury before returning to the lineup to try and prove his worth.&lt;\/span&gt;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jos\u00e9 Caballero &#8211; 2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired at the deadline from the Rays, Caballero will have his first full season with the Yankees and due to an injury to the aforementioned Volpe should begin the season at short stop.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Pitchers:<\/h3>\n<p><b>Jake Bird<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Yankees settled with reliever Jake Bird Thursday. No figure has been made public. Bird figures to be a big part of the Yankees bullpen in 2026 after being acquired at the trade deadline and being sent down after three appearances.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Fernando Cruz &#8211; $1.45M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired in December 2024, Cruz was one of the backbones of the Yankees bullpen in 2025. With the losses in the backend of the pen, Cruz&#8217;s role becomes more vital going forward.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>David Bednar &#8211; $9M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Yankees acquired the closer at the trade deadline from the Pirates. Bednar served as a sense of stability at the backend of the Yankees bullpen when he came over and is set to be the team&#8217;s closer in 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Luis Gil &#8211; 2.1625M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 2024 AL Rookie of the Year will look to have a bounceback season after an injury-riddled 2025 season impacted his performance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Camilo Doval &#8211; $6.1 Million<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Yankees acquired Doval at the trade deadline from the Giants. It took some time, but Doval found his way into a high leverage role for the Yankees. As of now, Doval slots in as the set up man for closer David Bednar.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Philadelphia Phillies (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Alec Bohm &#8211; $10.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The third baseman secured a $10.2 million settlement for his final year of team control before reaching free agency in 2027.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jes\u00fas Luzardo &#8211; $11.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In his final year of arbitration eligibility, the left-handed starter agreed to an $11 million contract following a standout 2025 season where he finished seventh in NL Cy Young voting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jhoan Duran &#8211; $7.5M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the game&#8217;s premier closers, Duran settled for $7.5 million after recording a 2.06 ERA and 32 saves last season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bryson Stott &#8211; $5.9M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Entering his second year of arbitration, the reliable second baseman locked in a $5.9 million deal for the 2026 campaign.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Brandon Marsh &#8211; $5.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The outfielder received a $2.2 million raise over his previous salary, settling at $5.2 million for his second arbitration year.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Edmundo Sosa &#8211; $4.4M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Established as a high-end utility infielder, Sosa agreed to a $4.4 million contract for his final arbitration-eligible season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tanner Banks &#8211; $1.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The left-handed reliever settled for $1.2 million to remain a cost-effective weapon in the Phillies&#8217; bullpen.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pittsburgh Pirates (By Joe Landolina)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Joey Bart &#8211; $2.53M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bart followed 2024\u2019s career year with a less inspiring .249\/.355\/.340 slash line in 2025. He was still Pittsburgh\u2019s best offensive catcher. However, given the progress Henry Davis made defensively, it was a mild surprise when Bart was tendered by the deadline.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Oneil Cruz &#8211; $3.3M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Saying Cruz\u2019s second half was miserable is like saying Eric Clapton can play the guitar a little. The Pirates are betting on the talented, enigmatic star to improve on last year\u2019s dismal .200\/.298\/.378 stat line.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Justin Lawrence &#8211; $1.225M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lawrence was effective for 17 games during which he gave up just one run before being lost for the season with an injury.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Dennis Santana &#8211; $3.5M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Santana\u2019s emergence as a viable late-inning option out of the bullpen since being picked up on a 2024 waiver claim allowed the Pirates to trade All-Star closer David Bednar. Santana saved 16 games last year and has posted a WHIP under 1.000 in each of his Pirates seasons.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Diego Padres (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_111194\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-111194\" style=\"width: 755px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-111194\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"755\" height=\"503\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/12\/USATSI_27262567-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 755px) 100vw, 755px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-111194\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Mason Miller. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Jason Adam &#8211; $6.25M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The late-inning right-hander secured a $6.25 million deal for his final year of team control. Adam remains a vital part of the Padres&#8217; &#8220;run prevention engine&#8221; as he heads toward free agency next winter.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Gavin Sheets &#8211; $4.5M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first baseman\/outfielder settled at $4.5 million, a figure slightly above his early industry projections. Sheets is expected to be the Padres&#8217; primary designated hitter against right-handed pitching in 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Adri\u00e1n Morej\u00f3n &#8211; $3.9M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0The electric left-hander avoided arbitration with a $3.9 million agreement. After a career-best 2.08 ERA in 2025, Morej\u00f3n enters 2026 as a premium multi-inning weapon for the bullpen.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>JP Sears &#8211; $3.5M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sears reached a $3.5 million settlement to remain a steady presence in the Padres&#8217; starting rotation. The left-handed starter still maintains significant upside as he enters his second year of arbitration eligibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Mason Miller &#8211; $3.3M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In his first year of arbitration, the hard-throwing reliever settled on a $3.3 million salary. Miller remains one of the most dominant young arms in the National League following a stellar 2025 campaign.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Freddy Fermin &#8211; $2.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reliable catcher avoided a hearing with a $2.2 million deal for the 2026 season. Fermin provides the Padres with a high-end defensive option and a steady bat behind the plate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Francisco Giants (By Aaron Shamilov)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>J.T Brubaker &#8211; $1.82M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To avoid arbitration, the Giants and Brubaker settled on a one-year, $1.82 million deal. In 2025, the 32-year-old logged 28.2 innings\u00a0 across 17 appearances with a 2.77 ERA and 1.22 WHIP.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seattle Mariners (By Jack Martin)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_105720\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-105720\" style=\"width: 668px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-105720\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"668\" height=\"445\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/08\/USATSI_26810984_168400885_lowres-1-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 668px) 100vw, 668px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-105720\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Randy Arozarena. Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>Pitchers<\/h3>\n<p><b>George Kirby \u2013 $6.55M\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">George Kirby is expected to remain a key piece of the Mariners\u2019 rotation. After an injury-affected 2025, Kirby will look to re-establish the form that made him an All-Star earlier in his career. He had a strong postseason and was still able to deliver elite outings in 2025. Still, he will need to demonstrate his ability to perform at that level consistently across a full season before getting a big contract.&lt;\/span&gt;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Matt Brash<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Matt Brash followed a lost 2024 season due to injury with a very solid year in 2025 and will be an important weapon for the Mariners again in 2026. He will be looking to return to the heights of his 2 WAR season in 2023, when he was one of the best bullpen arms in baseball.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Bryce Miller<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bryce Miller figures to be a key part of the rotation following some strong performances in the playoffs despite an injury-plagued 2025. While the sides have not yet agreed to terms, Miller remains an important part of the Mariners\u2019 rotation plans for 2026, as shown by the club\u2019s reluctance to include him in trade discussions for high-profile targets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Logan Gilbert<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Logan Gilbert had a disappointing season by his high standards. While he flashed his ceiling as one of the premier pitchers in baseball, particularly early in games, he was unable to consistently work into the sixth and seventh innings. With a full offseason to rehabilitate his injury, the Mariners will expect him to be closer to his best again in 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Hitters<\/h3>\n<p><b>Randy Arozarena \u2013 $15.65M<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming off a career 4 WAR season in 2025 for the Mariners, Arozarena remains a central part of Seattle\u2019s lineup and projects to be the leadoff hitter again in 2026. He enters his final year of team control after hitting 27 home runs and stealing 31 bases last season and will look to put together another strong season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Luke Raley<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another Mariner whose 2025 season was hampered by injury, this deal does not guarantee Raley a place on the roster come Opening Day, and he could emerge as a trade candidate. Even after a down year, he offers a plus power bat, good baserunning, and the ability to play both first base and the outfield.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Gabe Speier<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite tailing off toward the end of the season, particularly in the playoffs, Gabe Speier is still expected to be a key arm for the Mariners. Especially at home, where he posted a 1.15 FIP, he was nearly unhittable against left-handed hitters and will look to build on an impressive 2025 regular season.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">St. Louis Cardinals (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Brendan Donovan &#8211; $5.8M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The All-Star utility man secured a well-deserved raise following a career-best 2025 season where he hit .287.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>JoJo Romero &#8211; $4.26M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The left-handed reliever nearly doubled his salary after a dominant year in the bullpen, posting a 2.07 ERA in over 60 innings.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Andre Pallante &#8211; $4.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The right-hander, entering his second year of arbitration as a &#8220;Super Two&#8221; player, locked in a $4 million deal as he looks to stabilize his spot in the rotation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Lars Nootbaar &#8211; $5.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nootbaar settled for $5.2 million, reinforcing his role as a middle-of-the-order presence in the Cardinals&#8217; outfield.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Matthew Liberatore &#8211; $3.0M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The former top prospect settled for $3 million and is expected to compete for a full-time rotation spot this spring.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Nolan Gorman &#8211; $2.75M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gorman reached a settlement for $2.75 million as he aims for a bounce-back year with his signature power from the left side.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Alec Burleson &#8211; $2.1M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coming off a solid offensive season, Burleson secured a $2.1 million deal to provide consistent production at first base and the outfield.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tampa Bay Rays (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_107917\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-107917\" style=\"width: 725px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-107917\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"725\" height=\"483\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/09\/USATSI_27111612_168400885_lowres-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 725px) 100vw, 725px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-107917\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of Griffin Jax. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>Bryan Baker &#8211; $1.275M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The right-hander secured this deal after a 2025 season where he posted a 4.75 ERA in 30.1 innings for the Rays following a mid-season trade from Baltimore.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Garrett Cleavinger &#8211; $2.4M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After leading the team in appearances in recent years, the veteran southpaw effectively doubled his previous salary to remain a high-leverage lefty in the Rays&#8217; pen.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Nick Fortes &#8211; $2.535M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acquired from the Marlins at the 2025 deadline, Fortes settled for over $2.5 million and is projected to serve as Tampa Bay&#8217;s primary catcher this season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Griffin Jax &#8211; $3.565M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following a 99-strikeout campaign split between Minnesota and Tampa, Jax received a significant raise and is expected to be a core member of Kevin Cash\u2019s &#8220;closer-by-committee.&#8221;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Kevin Kelly &#8211; $925K<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reliable sidearmer agreed to a deal just under a million dollars as he continues to be a workhorse for a Rays pitching staff that thrives on unique arm angles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Josh Lowe &#8211; $1.6M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite an injury-hampered 2025, the Rays showed faith in Lowe\u2019s high ceiling by settling at $1.6 million for the athletic outfielder.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Richie Palacios &#8211; $945K<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After hitting .333 in a limited sample size with the big league club last year, Palacios settled for just under a million as he fights for a starting outfield spot this spring.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Ryan Pepiot &#8211; $3.025M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cornerstone of the Tyler Glasnow trade, Pepiot settled at just over $3 million and enters 2026 as a vital piece of the Rays&#8217; starting rotation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Steven Wilson &#8211; $1.52M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recently acquired via trade in November 2025, the 31-year-old righty locked in his 2026 salary to serve as a versatile middle-relief option.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Texas Rangers (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Jake Burger &#8211; $3.5M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The slugging infielder reached a settlement at $3.5 million for his first year of eligibility; he is expected to be a primary power source in the middle of the order.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Josh Smith &#8211; $3.325M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following a breakout campaign where he became a lineup staple, the super-utility man locked in a $3 million deal for 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Josh Jung &#8211; $2.9M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Despite an injury-plagued 2025, the Rangers settled at $2.9 million with their young third baseman as he looks to reclaim his All-Star form.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Ezequiel Duran &#8211; $1.4M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The versatile utility player avoided a hearing by agreeing to a $1.4 million figure to remain a key bench piece.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Toronto Blue Jays (By Michael Coyle)<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Tyler Heineman &#8211; $1.23M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Blue Jays backup catcher from 2025 appeared in 64 games, providing off-days for starter Alejandro Kirk. In 149 at-bats, Heineman batted .289 with three home runs and 20 RBIs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Ernie Clement &#8211; $4.6M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A hero from the Blue Jays playoff run, that saw Clement pick up 30 hits and bat .411. With Bo Bichette still a free agent and Kazuma Okamoto signed to play some third base, Clement appears to be slotting in at second base for the Blue Jays in 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Daulton Varsho &#8211; $10.75M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Varsho returned from shoulder surgery in the 2025 off-season at the end of April to bat .238 with 20 home runs and 55 RBIs, while still providing gold glove caliber defense in center field.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Washington Nationals (By Matthew Nethercott)<\/span><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_104941\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-104941\" style=\"width: 701px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-104941\" src=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"701\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/07\/USATSI_26711958-1200x800.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 701px) 100vw, 701px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-104941\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image of MacKenzie Gore. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><b>MacKenzie Gore &#8211; $5.6M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The left-hander nearly doubled his 2025 salary after a season in which he earned his first All-Star nod and recorded 185 strikeouts. Despite ongoing trade rumors, Gore remains the projected ace of the Nationals&#8217; rotation for the upcoming season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>CJ Abrams &#8211; $4.2M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Entering arbitration for the first time, the star shortstop secured a significant raise from his previous $780,600 salary. Abrams is coming off a solid offensive year where he tallied 19 home runs and 31 stolen bases, though the team continues to monitor his defensive development at shortstop.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Jake Irvin &#8211; $2.8M<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irvin qualified for a fourth year of arbitration eligibility and settled for $2.8 million. The right-hander looks to bounce back in 2026 after a difficult 2025 campaign. In 2025, he struggled with a 5.70 ERA over 33 starts.<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><b><i>Last Word on Sports Authors <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/matthewnethercott\/\" target=\"_self\">Matthew Nethercott<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/aaronshamilov\/\" target=\"_self\">Aaron Shamilov<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/michaelcoyle\/\" target=\"_self\">Michael Coyle<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/jackmartin\/\" target=\"_self\">Jack Martin<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/maanavgupta\/\" target=\"_self\">Maanav Gupta<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/katherinewacker\/\" target=\"_self\">Kathrine Wacker<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/joelandolina\/\" target=\"_self\">Joe Landolina<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/author\/jasonpetrucci\/\" target=\"_self\">Jason Petrucci<\/a> contributed to this story.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>Top Image Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>MLB\u2019s Arbitration deadline has officially passed, culminating in a flurry of activity that saw dozens of arbitration-eligible players reach one-year and multi-year contract agreements with their clubs. The annual mid-January deadline serves as the final opportunity for teams and players to settle on a salary for the upcoming season before exchanging figures and proceeding to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1675,"featured_media":111830,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","sfio_featured_image":false,"sfio_embed_code":"","_ef_editorial_meta_date_first-draft-date":"","_ef_editorial_meta_paragraph_assignment":"","_ef_editorial_meta_checkbox_needs-photo":"","_ef_editorial_meta_number_word-count":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[29,15,21,3,6171,4454,4,24,10,28,9,32,11,14,12,16,33,20,27,13,1071,22,5,23,26,30,31,17,25,6,18,7,19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-111829","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diamondbacks","category-athletics","category-braves","category-orioles","category-sports-gambling","category-baseball-history","category-redsox","category-cubs","category-whitesox","category-reds","category-guardians","category-rockies","category-tigers","category-astros","category-royals","category-angels","category-dodgers","category-marlins","category-brewers","category-twins","category-mlb","category-mets","category-yankees","category-phillies","category-pirates","category-padres","category-giants","category-mariners","category-cardinals","category-rays","category-rangers","category-bluejays","category-nationals"],"modified_by":"Matthew Nethercott, Site Editor","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/111829","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1675"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=111829"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/111829\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":111835,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/111829\/revisions\/111835"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/111830"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=111829"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=111829"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=111829"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}