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Free Agency

MLB Free Agency: Best Available Players by Position Before Spring Training 2026

With Spring Training looming, MLB News Plus identifies the top remaining free agents at each position, analyzing their potential impact and value for teams.

7 min read

As the calendar inches closer to Spring Training, a number of talented players remain unsigned on the free agent market. While the big names have largely found homes, several players could significantly impact contending teams. Let's break down the best available options at each position as clubs prepare for the 2026 season.

Catcher: Gary Sánchez

Once considered one of the most promising offensive catchers in the game, Gary Sánchez's star has dimmed slightly in recent years. However, his power potential remains undeniable. A team seeking a veteran presence behind the plate who can occasionally launch one into the seats could find Sánchez a valuable addition. While his defensive metrics have consistently been a concern, his offensive upside warrants consideration. In 2025, Sanchez slashed .200/.292/.423 with 21 home runs. Could a change of scenery unlock the offensive prowess that made him an All-Star?

Infield Options: From Shortstop to First Base

The infield market offers a mix of seasoned veterans and players looking for a fresh start.

  • First Base: Brandon Belt remains a viable option for teams seeking a left-handed power bat and clubhouse leader. Although injuries have plagued him in recent seasons, Belt's career .261/.356/.468 slash line speaks for itself.
  • Second Base: Jonathan Schoop, while not the offensive force he once was, provides solid defense and a veteran presence.
  • Shortstop: Andrelton Simmons, the slick fielding shortstop, is still available. A team looking for defense up the middle might consider Simmons. His offense has declined dramatically, but his glove remains elite.
  • Third Base: Maikel Franco is available to clubs looking to add some thump to their lineup. Franco had a batting average of .229 with 18 home runs in the 2025 campaign.

Outfield: A Blend of Power and Potential

The outfield free agent pool provides a mix of power hitters and defensive specialists.

  • Left Field: Tommy Pham is arguably the best outfielder remaining on the market. A career .259 hitter with above-average speed, Pham provides a solid all-around skillset. He's also proven to be a valuable clubhouse presence throughout his career.
  • Center Field: Kevin Kiermaier, while not a significant offensive threat, remains one of the premier defensive center fielders in baseball. His ability to cover vast amounts of ground and make highlight-reel catches makes him a valuable asset, particularly for teams with weaker pitching staffs.
  • Right Field: Adam Duvall, known for his prodigious power, could be a boom-or-bust addition. While his batting average typically hovers around the .230 mark, he possesses the ability to hit 30+ home runs.

Starting Pitching: Veteran Arms Available

The starting pitching market is thinning out, but a few veterans could still make a difference.

  • Noah Syndergaard: Once considered a potential ace, Syndergaard's career has been derailed by injuries. However, glimpses of his former dominance remain. In 2025, he posted a 4.50 ERA across 140 innings. A team willing to take a chance on his upside could find him a worthwhile investment.
  • Zack Greinke: At 42 years old, Greinke is nearing the end of his illustrious career. While his velocity has declined, his guile and experience remain invaluable. A team seeking a veteran presence and a reliable back-end starter could find Greinke a perfect fit.

Relief Pitching: Late-Inning Options

Bullpen depth is crucial for any contending team, and several intriguing relievers remain available.

  • Corey Knebel: Despite battling injuries, Knebel possesses closer-level stuff. When healthy, he throws in the mid-90s with a devastating curveball.
  • Jake Diekman: A left-handed specialist with a funky delivery, Diekman remains effective against left-handed hitters.

Looking Ahead

As Spring Training approaches, expect teams to ramp up their efforts to sign these remaining free agents. While none of these players are likely to command blockbuster contracts, they could provide valuable contributions to contending teams. General managers looking to add depth and experience will undoubtedly be exploring these options in the coming days. The next week could prove pivotal as players seek to secure roster spots before camps open.

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