As Major League Baseball approaches the final month of the regular season, teams are simultaneously preparing for intense pennant races and turning their attention to the upcoming free-agent market. Front-office executives, scouts, and analysts are using these closing weeks to finalize evaluations and compile target lists as they assess the next wave of available players.
This winter’s free-agent class is particularly notable for its depth in starting pitching. Among the frontrunners are left-handers Tarik Skubal of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Trevor Rogers of the Baltimore Orioles, and Padres’ Adrian Morejon, alongside right-handers Casey Mize of the Padres, Michael King, formerly of the Padres, and Clay Holmes of the Chicago Cubs.
Skubal, who won back-to-back American League Cy Young Awards with the Detroit Tigers, underwent elbow surgery in May but still maintained a strong 2.79 ERA over 96⅓ innings before being traded to the Dodgers at the deadline. At 29, Skubal is viewed as the top free-agent pitcher available and is expected to command a significant contract, with projections placing him among the highest-paid pitchers in terms of average annual value.
Michael King has emerged as a key figure for the Padres, posting metrics that place him in the top 10 percent across several pitching categories this season. Durable after an injury-plagued 2025, the 31-year-old right-hander has been the team’s ace and is anticipated to be a sought-after free agent. Similarly, Clay Holmes transitioned effectively from bullpen to starter after signing with the Mets before the 2025 season and, despite a fractured right fibula earlier this year, has continued to perform well. The Cubs acquired Holmes at the trade deadline, where he is expected to bolster their playoff push.
Among relievers, Adrian Morejon is regarded as the premier left-handed bullpen arm available, delivering high velocity on multiple pitches and maintaining sub-3.00 ERAs over the past three seasons. Other notable bullpen candidates include Yankees closer David Bednar and Braves closer Raisel Iglesias, both offering extensive experience and proven track records of success in high-pressure situations.
On the position-player front, the free-agent pool is less robust but includes intriguing options such as Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Mariners outfielder Randy Arozarena, although Chisholm has had a down year statistically.
Several pitchers with varying profiles are also drawing attention. Padres lefty Robbie Ray, acquired from the Giants at the trade deadline, has demonstrated durability and effectiveness following recovery from Tommy John surgery. Foster Griffin has made a strong return to MLB with the Cleveland Guardians after three productive seasons in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball, showcasing a diverse pitching arsenal. Additionally, right-hander Casey Mize, once the top overall draft pick in 2018, is viewed as a midrotation starter who has overcome injuries to produce consistent results.
Veteran pitchers such as 36-year-old Nick Martinez of the Tampa Bay Rays have shown versatility, contributing both as starters and relievers, which enhances their appeal on the open market. Conversely, Freddy Peralta’s free-agent stock has diminished after a disappointing year split between the Mets and Rays, though a recent stretch of strong outings could help restore his value.
With labor negotiations still uncertain, there remains some ambiguity about how the offseason will unfold. However, historical precedent suggests significant free-agent signings are likely regardless of potential lockouts or delays. Teams are set to intensely pursue pitching talent this winter as they look to bolster rosters for the postseason and beyond.