As February begins and Spring Training nears, many of the best MLB free agents for 2025-26 have signed with new teams, yet a significant pool of notable talent remains unsigned. With clubs transitioning their focus from blockbuster trades to filling remaining roster spots, the market still holds valuable players poised to influence the upcoming season.
These available players offer a range of options, from starting pitchers to key position players, who could help contenders address gaps before Opening Day. This article highlights the leading remaining free agents by position, emphasizing those with the potential to impact their new teams immediately.
Leading Catcher Prospects Among Available Players
Christian Vasquez stands out as the top catcher still available. A former All-Star Game MVP, Vasquez brings veteran leadership combined with league-average offense, a rare commodity at a position often in short supply. His experience and steady bat could provide a reliable foundation behind the plate for any team seeking depth.
An additional option at catcher worth noting is Elias Diaz, who posted a 0.4 WAR and could serve as a solid backup or complementary piece.
Reliable First Baseman Options to Consider
Ty France emerges as the most consistent first baseman still on the market. Known for his contact hitting and disciplined approach, France offers a steady presence despite a dip in power numbers during 2025. His role in stabilizing the Blue Jays’ lineup during their postseason run underscores his value as a dependable veteran.
Meanwhile, Rhys Hoskins remains a strong contender at first base, bringing proven power with a 0.9 WAR, also excelling as a designated hitter.
Versatile Second Basemen to Strengthen the Infield
Luis Rengifo showcases true utility with his switch-hitting ability and versatility in the infield, making him an ideal candidate for teams requiring an all-around infielder who can reliably steal bases and stay durable throughout the season. His 1.5 WAR reflects his well-rounded skill set and consistent production.
Adam Frazier is another option at second base, offering 0.7 WAR as a reliable contact hitter and defender.
Third Basemen Who Bring Defensive and Offensive Balance
Ramón Urías is a valuable “glue guy” for any roster, offering Gold Glove defense and the flexibility to play multiple positions. Although his power production can be inconsistent, his 1.1 WAR and steady presence enhance any team’s infield depth.
DJ LeMahieu should also be considered as an honorable mention, bringing experience with a 0.3 WAR.
Shortstop Situation: A Challenging Market with Potential Upside
The shortstop free-agent pool is notably thin. Tim Anderson represents the high-risk, high-reward type. With prior All-Star experience, Anderson’s performance in 2025 was limited, but if a team believes it can rectify his swing mechanics, he could deliver substantial upside.
Luis Urías is another shortstop available, though with modest contributions to date (0.1 WAR).
Left Fielders Providing Power and Stability
Michael Conforto is a strong left-field option still unsigned, bringing a consistent veteran presence and potential power upgrade at the corner outfield. Despite remaining on the market longer than anticipated, Conforto’s 0.7 WAR signals he can still contribute effectively.
Alex Verdugo deserves mention as a left fielder with a slightly higher 0.9 WAR and solid all-around skills.
Center Fielders Offering Defensive Versatility
Following Harrison Bader’s move to the San Francisco Giants, Enrique Hernandez remains one of the best centerfielders available. Known as a “winning player,” Hernandez fits well as a fourth outfielder or utility piece, providing a strong glove and valuable team experience.
Santiago Espinal is also available for center field duties, although with limited impact statistically.
Right Fielders with Power and Defensive Skill
Mike Tauchman continues to be a desirable right fielder who combines capable defense with surprising power, having the potential to hit 20 home runs. Though he has lingered on the market, Tauchman’s 1.4 WAR indicates he can be a difference-maker in the corner outfield.
Starling Marte is an honorable mention, contributing 0.7 WAR with speed and experience.
Designated Hitter Leaders for Power-Hungry Lineups
Rhys Hoskins, with his reputation as the top pure power bat remaining, should be a top priority for teams lacking home-run threats. While the DH label may suppress his traditional WAR metrics, Hoskins’ power potential makes him a valuable signing.
Ty France again appears as an alternate DH option, offering balance with his contact approach.
Starting Pitchers Available to Bolster Rotations
Zac Gallen is arguably the most prominent starting pitcher still available, despite a down year in 2025. Between 2022 and 2024, Gallen posted a combined 12.2 WAR, proving his capability as a frontline starter. Having declined his qualifying offer, he remains a significant free-agent prize for teams needing rotation help.
Chris Bassitt and Lucas Giolito serve as notable honorable mentions at starting pitcher, contributing 2.8 and 2.0 WAR respectively.
Leading Relief Pitchers to Anchor Bullpens
Evan Phillips stands out as an elite relief pitcher who excels in high-pressure situations from the seventh through ninth innings. His efficient 2025 season made him the highest-valued arm currently available in the bullpen market.
Danny Coulombe is another capable bullpen option, with a 1.2 WAR, offering additional depth for teams seeking late-inning stability.
The 2025 MLB free-agent class still holds intriguing prospects across all positions, and with Spring Training underway, teams will be closely evaluating these players to address final roster needs. As organizations look to balance their lineups and pitching staffs, signing from this distinguished group could very well shape the pennant race moving forward.
