Ranking the Top 11 Post-Trade Deadline 2025 MLB Pending Free Agents

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11. Matt Chapman – Third Baseman, San Francisco Giants
Age in 2025: 32
Qualifying Offer Eligible: NoMatt Chapman continues to be a defensive powerhouse at third base, showcasing the same skills that made him a standout with the Oakland Athletics and Toronto Blue Jays. While his offensive numbers might not dazzle in terms of batting average or on-base percentage, his defensive prowess and power at the plate make him an asset. With an option to opt-out of his current contract, Chapman could test the free agency waters without the burden of a qualifying offer, making him an intriguing figure in the 2025 market.
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1. Juan Soto – Right/Left Fielder, New York Yankees
Age in 2025: 26
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesJuan Soto is set to become one of the most coveted free agents in MLB history. Entering free agency at just 26 years old, Soto's combination of youth and elite talent puts him in a league of his own. With comparisons to past mega-deals for players like Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, Soto is expected to command a record-breaking contract that could reshape the market. The Yankees will have to fend off numerous suitors, including their rivals, to keep Soto in pinstripes.
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2. Corbin Burnes – Right-Handed Pitcher, Baltimore Orioles
Age in 2025: 30
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesCorbin Burnes is poised to be the most sought-after pitcher in the 2025 free-agent class. His consistent dominance, highlighted by multiple All-Star appearances, makes him a prime candidate for a mega-deal similar to what Gerrit Cole received. The Orioles' decision to trade for Burnes early was strategic, allowing them to extend a qualifying offer and potentially recoup value if he departs.
3. Pete Alonso – First Baseman, New York Mets
Age in 2025: 30
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesPete Alonso's power is unmatched, making him one of the most feared sluggers in the game. However, concerns about the long-term aging of power hitters could impact his market. Alonso turned down a significant extension offer from the Mets, betting on his ability to secure an even more lucrative deal in free agency. His next contract will likely be a test of how much teams value raw power in today’s game.
4. Blake Snell – Left-Handed Pitcher, San Francisco Giants
Age in 2025: 32
Qualifying Offer Eligible: NoBlake Snell's late-season resurgence has put him back on the map as a top free agent. With no qualifying offer attached, Snell is in a prime position to secure a better deal than the one he initially signed with the Giants. While durability remains a concern, Snell's recent performances, including a no-hitter, make him a compelling option for teams seeking a high-upside pitcher.
5. Max Fried – Left-Handed Pitcher, Atlanta Braves
Age in 2025: 31
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesMax Fried has been one of the best pitchers in the National League, boasting top-tier stats and multiple accolades. However, his injury history raises questions about his durability. Despite these concerns, Fried is almost certain to decline a qualifying offer from the Braves, setting the stage for a lucrative multi-year deal in free agency. A strong postseason could further boost his stock.
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No. 6: Alex Bregman – Third Baseman, Houston Astros
Age in 2025: 31
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesAlex Bregman remains one of baseball's most complex free agent cases. Once a top-five player, Bregman's recent seasons have been solid but not spectacular. His association with the Astros' sign-stealing scandal may also impact his market. While Bregman is unlikely to accept a qualifying offer, a return to Houston isn't off the table, especially if the market doesn't develop as he hopes.
Willy Adames – Shortstop, Milwaukee Brewers
Age in 2025: 29
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesWilly Adames has been a key contributor for the Brewers, both defensively and offensively. As his free agency approaches, Adames is making a strong case for a significant contract, potentially similar to the one Dansby Swanson secured with the Cubs. With his prime years still ahead, Adames is expected to draw considerable interest, especially from teams looking for stability at shortstop.
8. Anthony Santander – Right Fielder, Baltimore Orioles
Age in 2025: 30
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesAnthony Santander has emerged as a consistent power hitter, averaging over 30 home runs in recent seasons. Despite being viewed as replaceable in some circles, his performance in Baltimore has proven his value. With the Orioles facing a decision on extending a qualifying offer, Santander is likely to seek a longer-term deal elsewhere, making him a sought-after option for teams in need of a reliable right fielder with pop.
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9. Jack Flaherty – Right-Handed Pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age in 2025: 29
Qualifying Offer Eligible: NoJack Flaherty's career has been marred by injuries, leaving some teams hesitant to commit to a long-term contract. However, his midseason trade to the Dodgers was a game-changer, removing the possibility of a qualifying offer and opening up new opportunities in free agency. Flaherty's potential to command a deal with opt-outs makes him a wildcard in the market, offering high reward for teams willing to take a calculated risk on his upside.
10. Christian Walker – First Baseman, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age in 2025: 34
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesChristian Walker's value is undeniable, with his exceptional defensive skills and consistent power at the plate. However, his age and potential qualifying offer could deter some teams from pursuing him in free agency. Despite this, Walker's impressive track record—highlighted by his Gold Glove Awards and power stats—positions him as a strong candidate for a multi-year deal, providing an alternative for teams seeking a reliable first baseman.
11. Matt Chapman – Third Baseman, San Francisco Giants
Age in 2025: 32
Qualifying Offer Eligible: NoMatt Chapman continues to be a defensive powerhouse at third base, showcasing the same skills that made him a standout with the Oakland Athletics and Toronto Blue Jays. While his offensive numbers might not dazzle in terms of batting average or on-base percentage, his defensive prowess and power at the plate make him an asset. With an option to opt-out of his current contract, Chapman could test the free agency waters without the burden of a qualifying offer, making him an intriguing figure in the 2025 market.
For all your MLB deep dives check out our friends at Just Baseball.
1. Juan Soto – Right/Left Fielder, New York Yankees
Age in 2025: 26
Qualifying Offer Eligible: YesJuan Soto is set to become one of the most coveted free agents in MLB history. Entering free agency at just 26 years old, Soto's combination of youth and elite talent puts him in a league of his own. With comparisons to past mega-deals for players like Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, Soto is expected to command a record-breaking contract that could reshape the market. The Yankees will have to fend off numerous suitors, including their rivals, to keep Soto in pinstripes.
Swing for the Fences with SportsGrid’s free daily MLB Game Picks and MLB Prop Picks.
