The Winter Meetings in Orlando reshaped the market, but they didn’t finish the job. While several headliners found homes, the free-agent board remains loaded with impact talent capable of swinging pennant races. From frontline arms to middle-of-the-order bats, this list by Bleacher Report tracks the best available players as the hot stove rolls on.

25. Willi CastroSep 20, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Willi Castro (1) scores a run against the Cincinnati Reds in the eighth inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images

Stats: 454 PA | 89 OPS+ | .226/.313/.366 | 31 XBH (11 HR) | 33 RBI | WAR: -0.2
Castro lands at the back end of the list as a true Swiss Army knife. His 2025 bat dipped, but positional versatility and recent All-Star credentials still carry weight. In a crowded utility market, he profiles as a depth piece waiting for an opportunity to open.

24. Zack LittellCincinnati Reds starting pitcher Zack Littell (52) throws a pitch in the first inning of the MLB National League Wild Card Game 2 between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025. The Reds were eliminated from the postseason with an 8-4 loss to the reining World Series Champions La Dodgers.

Stats: 32 GS | 3.81 ERA (4.88 FIP) | 1.10 WHIP | 130 K | 186.2 IP | WAR: 3.2
Littell’s reinvention into a dependable starter has quietly stuck. He won’t overpower hitters, but elite command and durability give him a high floor. For teams hunting innings without drama, he checks every box.

23. Tyler Mahle

Stats: 16 GS | 2.18 ERA (3.37 FIP) | 1.13 WHIP | 66 K | 86.2 IP | WAR: 2.2
Mahle’s stuff still screams top-of-the-rotation potential when healthy. Unfortunately, health remains the variable that clouds his value. He’s the ultimate gamble. Short bursts of dominance if the body cooperates.

22. Justin VerlanderSep 27, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) follows through on a pitch against the Colorado Rockies during the fifth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images

Stats: 29 GS | 3.85 ERA (3.85 FIP) | 1.36 WHIP | 137 K | 152.0 IP | WAR: 1.2
At 42, Verlander continues to defy the timeline. He’s no longer an ace, but his late-season push showed there’s still plenty left. For contenders, his postseason pedigree alone keeps phones ringing.

21. Luke WeaverOct 4, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees pitcher Luke Weaver (30) throws in the seventh inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game one of the ALDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Stats: 64 G | 21 HLD | 3.62 ERA (3.89 FIP) | 72 K | 64.2 IP | WAR: 0.8
Weaver reinvented himself as a high-leverage weapon and cashed in quickly. His ability to bridge innings or close games made him one of the winter’s most efficient bullpen bets. A sharp turnaround story with immediate payoff.

20. Pete FairbanksSep 13, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Pete Fairbanks (29) celebrates after defeating the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Stats: 61 G | 27/32 SV | 2.83 ERA (3.63 FIP) | 59 K | 60.1 IP | WAR: 1.2
With most elite closers off the board, Fairbanks stands as the last proven ninth-inning option. The strikeouts are down, but the track record of closing games remains strong. He’s reliable in a volatile market.

19. Brad KellerOct 11, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Brad Keller (40) pitches against the Milwaukee Brewers in the eighth inning during game five of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

Stats: 68 G | 25 HLD | 2.07 ERA (2.93 FIP) | 75 K | 69.2 IP | WAR: 1.4
Keller found his calling in the bullpen, pairing velocity gains with consistent results. The transition unlocked his value and earned him a solid payday. What once felt uncertain now looks like a clear late-inning fit.

18. Chris BassittNov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Chris Bassitt (40) throws to second for an out against Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy (13) in the sixth inning during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Stats: 31 GS | 3.96 ERA (4.01 FIP) | 1.33 WHIP | 166 K | 170.1 IP | WAR: 2.1
Bassitt remains one of baseball’s most reliable inning-eaters. He’s not flashy, but durability has value, especially in October races. His ability to toggle roles only boosts his appeal.

17. Luis ArraezSep 23, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres designated hitter Luis Arraez (4) hits a two-run home run during the second inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Stats: 675 PA | 99 OPS+ | .292/.327/.392 | 42 XBH (8 HR) | 61 RBI | WAR: 1.2
Even a “down” year for Arraez still produced elite contact. Power and defense cap his ceiling, but his bat-to-ball skills remain unmatched. For the right roster, he’s still a lineup stabilizer.

16. Ryan O’HearnJun 24, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Ryan O’Hearn (32) following his solo home run during the seventh inning against the Texas Rangers at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

Stats: 544 PA | 125 OPS+ | .281/.366/.437 | 39 XBH (17 HR) | 63 RBI | WAR: 2.4
O’Hearn broke free from platoon status with authority. An All-Star season cemented him as a legitimate middle-order threat. He now hits the market as more than just a complementary bat.

15. J.T. RealmutoOct 9, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) reacts after striking out in the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game four of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Stats: 550 PA | 91 OPS+ | .257/.315/.384 | 39 XBH (12 HR) | 52 RBI | WAR: 2.5
Realmuto may no longer dominate offensively, but his all-around value still separates him from the pack. Pitchers trust him, managers lean on him, and contenders covet that presence. Catching scarcity keeps his stock strong.

14. Harrison BaderMinnesota Twins outfielder Harrison Bader (12) is tagged while diving back to first base in a pick off attempt during a spring training game against the Colorado Rockies at Lee Health Sports Complex in Fort Myers, Fla., on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Stats: 501 PA | 117 OPS+ | .277/.347/.449 | 42 XBH (17 HR) | 54 RBI | WAR: 3.9
Bader turned a defense-first reputation into a complete package. Added power elevated him into everyday territory without sacrificing glove work. He’s one of the market’s cleanest fits.

13. Kazuma OkamotoMar 15, 2025; Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan; Yomiuri Giants first baseman Kazuma Okamoto (25) fields a ground ball against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fifth inning at Tokyo Dome. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Stats (Japan): 314 PA | .322/.411/.581 | 39 XBH (15 HR) | 51 RBI
Okamoto arrives with a resume built on power production. An elbow issue slowed him in 2025, but his long-term track record suggests middle-of-the-order upside. Clubs betting on translation could strike gold.

12. Lucas GiolitoSep 17, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Lucas Giolito (54) pitches against the Athletics during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Stats: 26 GS | 3.41 ERA (4.17 FIP) | 1.29 WHIP | 121 K | 145.0 IP | WAR: 2.1
Giolito rebuilt his value after surgery and timed the market perfectly. Healthy again, he profiles as a steady mid-rotation arm with upside. A classic bounce-back free agent.

11. Eugenio Suárez

Stats: 657 PA | 126 OPS+ | .228/.298/.526 | 77 XBH (49 HR) | 118 RBI | WAR: 3.6
Suárez brought thunder in bunches, matching a career-high 49 homers. The swings-and-misses come with the territory, but power like this is rare. He’s instant electricity for any lineup.

10. Zac GallenSep 26, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) throws to first base for an out during the second inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Stats: 33 GS | 4.83 ERA (4.50 FIP) | 1.26 WHIP | 175 K | 192.0 IP | WAR: 1.1
Gallen’s contract year stumbled early, but the late rebound reminded teams of his ceiling. A short-term prove-it deal feels inevitable. The upside still screams ace.

9. Michael KingSep 27, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King (34) delivers during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

Stats: 15 GS | 3.44 ERA (4.42 FIP) | 1.20 WHIP | 76 K | 73.1 IP | WAR: 1.2
King’s rise stalled due to injury, not ability. When healthy, his swing-and-miss stuff plays anywhere in a rotation. Teams are betting on what he can be, not just what he was.

8. Munetaka MurakamiMar 21, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Japan third baseman Munetaka Murakami (55) plays his position during the sixth inning against the USA at LoanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Stats (Japan): 263 PA | .286/.392/.659 | 34 XBH (24 HR) | 52 RBI
Murakami brings star-level power and youth to the market. The upside is franchise-altering if the transition clicks. Few free agents offer this blend of age and thunder.

7. Tatsuya ImaiDetroit Lions' Tatsuya Imai.Detroit Lions’ Tatsuya Imai. Credit: @nypostsports on X

Stats (Japan): 24 GS | 10-5 | 1.92 ERA | 0.89 WHIP | 178 K | 163.2 IP
Imai pairs velocity with nastiness, headlined by a devastating splitter. He’s less heralded than his peers but might own the highest pitching ceiling of the group. A potential difference-maker from day one.

6. Ranger SuárezOct 8, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ranger Suárez (55) pitches during the third inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game three of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Stats: 26 GS | 3.20 ERA (3.21 FIP) | 1.22 WHIP | 151 K | 157.1 IP | WAR: 4.7
Suárez thrives on efficiency and ground balls. He’s built for postseason baseball and thrives with strong infield defense. Quietly elite, loudly effective.

5. Cody BellingerCody BellingerCody Bellinger | Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images

Stats: 656 PA | 125 OPS+ | .272/.334/.480 | 59 XBH (29 HR) | 98 RBI | WAR: 5.1
Bellinger’s resurgence is no longer a fluke. Back-to-back strong seasons reestablished him as a star on both sides of the ball. His market reflects full redemption.

4. Framber ValdezSep 20, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Framber Valdez (59) reacts after a play during the fourth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Stats: 31 GS | 3.66 ERA (3.37 FIP) | 1.25 WHIP | 187 K | 192.0 IP | WAR: 3.8
Valdez brings old-school durability in a modern game. He takes the ball, goes deep, and dominates contact. For teams craving rotation stability, he’s the answer.

3. Alex BregmanSep 25, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman (2) throws out Toronto Blue Jays catcher Tyler Heineman (not pictured) at first base during the third inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Stats: 495 PA | 128 OPS+ | .273/.360/.462 | 46 XBH (18 HR) | 62 RBI | WAR: 3.5
Bregman’s opt-out bet paid off. Even with missed time, his two-way value at third base stands above the rest. He’s the premier infield prize left standing.

2. Bo BichetteBlue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette (11) reacts after a play in the seventh inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on Sept. 2.Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette (11) reacts after a play in the seventh inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on Sept. 2 – Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Stats: 628 PA | 129 OPS+ | .311/.357/.483 | 63 XBH (18 HR) | 94 RBI | WAR: 3.5
Bichette silenced any doubts with a vintage bounce-back season. Defensive questions linger, but the bat plays anywhere. Teams will rearrange positions to fit him in.

1. Kyle TuckerAug 24, 2025; Anaheim, California, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker (30) walks against the Los Angeles Angels during the fifth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

Stats: 597 PA | 143 OPS+ | .266/.377/.464 | 51 XBH (22 HR) | 73 RBI | WAR: 4.6
Tucker stands atop the class as a true five-tool force in his prime. Even with missed time, his impact was undeniable. He’s the kind of signing that reshapes a franchise’s future.

When the hot stove really ignitesMar 15, 2025; Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan; Yomiuri Giants first baseman Kazuma Okamoto (25) fields a ground ball against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the fifth inning at Tokyo Dome. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

The biggest names are still waiting, and that’s what makes this winter fascinating. One signature can tilt a division, one gamble can define a front office. Until then, the board stays hot, and the stakes only rise from here.