Free agents poised for division rival moves.
Blake Snell’s recent move to the Dodgers on a five-year, $182 million contract marked his third National League West team in as many years, having previously played for the Padres and Giants. This raises the question of which other free agents could switch teams within their divisions over the coming months. Here are seven top free agents who could make the jump to division rivals:
Juan Soto to the Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox have emerged as serious contenders to pry Juan Soto away from the Yankees after his pivotal role in helping New York reach the World Series for the first time in 15 years. Reports indicate the Sox have ramped up efforts to acquire the 26-year-old superstar. A move to Boston would keep Soto in the spotlight at Fenway Park and energize a franchise that hasn’t seen the postseason since 2021. With the Red Sox also in the market for frontline pitching, Soto could be the catalyst for a significant shift in the American League East.
Corbin Burnes to the Yankees
Despite having Gerrit Cole under contract, the Yankees are looking to bolster their rotation after a series of injuries. The 30-year-old former Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes remains the top free-agent starter on the market. Burnes posted an impressive 2.92 ERA over 32 starts with the Orioles in 2024. With Soto still the Yankees’ primary target, the club is reportedly in contact with Burnes’ camp, seeking to add another elite arm to their rotation.
Alex Bregman to the Mariners
Alex Bregman, a veteran third baseman with a career .848 OPS, is set to hit the free-agent market for the first time after being an integral part of the Houston Astros’ two World Series titles. The Mariners, who have struggled at third base, could be a perfect landing spot for Bregman. After a season in which Seattle’s third basemen posted a lackluster .213/.301/.341 slash line, Bregman could provide stability and power to their lineup, complementing an already strong rotation.
Pete Alonso to the Nationals
As Washington continues to build on its post-rebuild momentum, Pete Alonso is a potential target for the Nationals. With significant financial flexibility, the club could afford to bring in the slugging first baseman. Pete Alonso would provide an immediate power boost to a lineup that features rising stars like C.J. Abrams and Luis Garcia Jr. With financial space and an opening at first base, Alonso could help accelerate the Nationals’ push toward contention.
Christian Walker to the Giants
The Giants, in need of power, could target Christian Walker to fill their long-standing first-base void. Walker has posted consistent offensive numbers for the division-rival Arizona Diamondbacks. Adding Walker would provide an immediate upgrade for a Giants team seeking to return to contention. Under the new president of baseball operations, Buster Posey, the team is expected to make significant moves this offseason to regain its competitive edge.
Anthony Santander to the Blue Jays
After a disappointing 2024 season, the Toronto Blue Jays are searching for ways to bolster their lineup. With a strong core featuring Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, the addition of Anthony Santander could take the Jays’ offense to the next level. Santander is coming off a career-high 44 homers for the Orioles and would provide much-needed power to Toronto’s lineup. If the Blue Jays miss out on Soto, Santander could become a key target.
Walker Buehler to the Padres
With the Dodgers’ pitching staff getting crowded due to the return of injured starters like Tyler Glasnow, Dustin May, and Tony Gonsolin, Walker Buehler may find himself available. This could be an opportunity for the Padres to strengthen their rotation further. Walker Buehler, who showed promise during his return from injury in the 2024 NL Championship Series and World Series, would add depth to a San Diego pitching staff already featuring Dylan Cease and Yu Darvish. A move to the Padres could make them an even more formidable contender in the NL West.
These free agents could significantly shift the balance of power within their respective divisions, making the upcoming offseason one to watch closely.
