Starting Pitchers
Top MLB free agents still available as Spring Training approaches
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With less than two weeks until pitchers and catchers report for the 2026 MLB season, several high-profile free agents remain unsigned after three months on the market. Standouts include starting pitchers Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen, who declined qualifying offers, alongside veterans like Justin Verlander and Paul Goldschmidt. The market has slowed, but teams continue to eye options to bolster rosters before Spring Training begins.
The Detroit Tigers have set a steep price for trading ace pitcher Tarik Skubal, deterring the New York Yankees and Mets from pursuing a deal. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers may still have an opening due to uncertainties with Blake Snell. The Yankees are instead focusing on bolstering their offense with a right-handed outfielder.
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The Texas Rangers bolstered their rotation by acquiring left-handed starter MacKenzie Gore from the Washington Nationals in exchange for five prospects on Thursday. Gore, a 2025 All-Star with two years of team control remaining, joins a contending Rangers squad aiming for another World Series run. The deal highlights Texas' win-now strategy, while Washington restocks its farm system with young talent.
The Chicago Cubs are prioritizing pitching this offseason, with president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer emphasizing needs in the rotation and bullpen. Shota Imanaga's acceptance of a $22.025 million qualifying offer secures one spot, but the team is eyeing top free agents to bolster the staff.