5 MLB Teams Ready to Spend Big on Starting Pitching in Free Agency

Toronto Blue Jays: Seeking Consistency

The Toronto Blue Jays have talent but underperformed in 2024. With Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt under long-term deals, adding another reliable starter could improve a rotation that ranked 14th in ERA. Linked to Fried and Severino, Toronto is looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs. Adding a high-impact starter could not only strengthen the rotation but also improve a struggling bullpen by pushing Yariel Rodríguez into relief.

New York Mets: Building Around Momentum

After an electrifying run to the NLCS, the New York Mets face the daunting task of rebuilding a depleted rotation. With Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and José Quintana testing free agency, only Kodai Senga and David Peterson remain reliable options. The Mets are heavily linked to Garrett Crochet and are also exploring trades. With their financial flexibility, expect them to target big names like Corbin Burnes or solidify depth with arms like Yusei Kikuchi or Alex Cobb.

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Baltimore Orioles: Aiming for an Ace

The Baltimore Orioles are in the market for a bona fide ace to complement their young core. With Zach Eflin and Grayson Rodriguez leading the rotation, Baltimore’s postseason struggles highlight the need for a high-impact arm. The Orioles have reportedly contacted Burnes, Fried, and Crochet, and with ownership signaling a willingness to spend, a major addition could push Baltimore over the top in their contention window.

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Chicago Cubs: Reinforcing Their Pitching Depth

Despite a strong showing from Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele, the Chicago Cubs need reinforcements to make a playoff push in 2025. They’re rumored to be pursuing Snell, Eovaldi, and Jack Flaherty, aiming to add a third top-tier starter to their rotation. With several young pitchers like Cade Horton and Javier Assad providing depth, the Cubs could make a strategic move for a mid-rotation arm to complement their lefty-heavy staff.

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Toronto Blue Jays: Seeking Consistency

The Toronto Blue Jays have talent but underperformed in 2024. With Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt under long-term deals, adding another reliable starter could improve a rotation that ranked 14th in ERA. Linked to Fried and Severino, Toronto is looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs. Adding a high-impact starter could not only strengthen the rotation but also improve a struggling bullpen by pushing Yariel Rodríguez into relief.