Top MLB Free Agents Remain Unsigned as Spring Training Begins

As pitchers and catchers report to the lush landscapes of Florida and Arizona, Major League Baseball gears up for the long and demanding season ahead. Spring training has officially kicked off following an eventful offseason that included record-breaking contract signings exceeding $3.3 billion.

Despite the flurry of activity, a handful of notable players find themselves without a team as Opening Day approaches. With just over six weeks until the season starts, here are the top six free agents still available on the market.

Alex Bregman: A Surprising Offseason

Among the most consistent players in baseball, Alex Bregman is now a free agent for the very first time. The two-time All-Star is navigating an offseason that hasn’t gone as smoothly as he hoped. Bregman recently earned his first Gold Glove Award with the Houston Astros in 2024. His performance since 2021 has been respectable, with a slash line of .262/.350/.444.

Reports indicate that Bregman declined a lucrative six-year, $156 million offer to remain with the Astros. His name has surfaced frequently in trade rumors, particularly given the ongoing negotiations involving Scott Boras as his agent, alongside the latest news surrounding Juan Soto.

Even if Bregman is not quite at his 2019 MVP-caliber level—when he recorded an impressive 8.9 Wins Above Replacement—his batting skills remain top-notch. The Gold Glove Award he received reflects his defensive prowess as well.

Jose Iglesias: A Veteran Making Waves

Jose Iglesias, at 35, experienced a career resurgence in 2024. He joined the New York Mets midseason, following a year away from the game, and became a pivotal player for the team. Iglesias posted an outstanding batting average of .337, resulting in a career-high 3.1 WAR over just 85 games.

His veteran presence undoubtedly contributed to the Mets’ performance, offering a blend of skill and leadership. Moreover, teams needing a spirited post-game concert need not worry; Iglesias is ready to deliver without demanding any extra compensation.

Jose Quintana: A Reliable Lefty

Sticking with the Mets, Jose Quintana enters his 14th MLB season. The left-handed pitcher registered a 170-inning season, his most since 2018, while maintaining a respectable 3.75 ERA. Although he may not be an All-Star candidate, many teams view him as a solid option for a middle-of-the-rotation arm.

At 36, Quintana may represent a budget-friendly short-term solution for teams looking to bolster their pitching depth.

Nick Pivetta: The Swing-and-Miss Specialist

Nick Pivetta has garnered attention for his strikeout abilities, ranking in the 88th percentile for whiff rate in the past season. With a career ERA of 4.76, his last two years have seen improvements, notably a 4.09 ERA with the Boston Red Sox.

While Pivetta has encountered some misfortune on the mound, his potential for generating strikeouts makes him an appealing target for teams seeking a potent arm. With his 32nd birthday approaching, he still has time to tap into that promise.

David Robertson: The Ageless Wonder

David Robertson recently completed his 16th season in the MLB and continues to defy age. Sporting a consistent 3.00 ERA with the Texas Rangers, Robertson’s performance remains impressive for a pitcher nearing 40. He will turn 40 on April 9, yet his skills show no signs of deterioration, as evidenced by his outstanding 12.4 strikeouts per nine innings, his best figure since 2017.

In today’s game, where bullpen strength is crucial, Robertson’s experience and effectiveness can be invaluable to any team.

Alex Verdugo: A Versatile Outfielder

Alex Verdugo faced challenges during the 2024 season but showcased his potential while serving as an outfielder for the New York Yankees. His performance dipped, yet he earned recognition as a Gold Glove finalist after a successful run in the Bronx.

From 2019 to 2022, Verdugo maintained a solid batting average of .289 with a .778 OPS. However, struggles surfaced in his last year with the Boston Red Sox, possibly exacerbated by external pressures, including contract year tensions.

Despite these setbacks, Verdugo remains a versatile outfielder, capable of playing all three outfield positions effectively, with a reliable bat ready to come through when needed.

Final Thoughts on Free Agent Market

The MLB free-agent market continues to hold intrigue as some talented players remain unsigned while teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming season. As pitchers and catchers gather for spring training, the landscape of professional baseball is anything but settled. These free agents bring potential value to teams in need of skilled players, and their future homes can significantly shape the dynamics of the season ahead.