"Tarik Skubal is the overwhelming favorite to be next offseason's top free agent. The two-time defending AL Cy Young winner is probably the best pitcher on the planet. He's almost certainly not signing an extension with the Tigers. As long as he stays healthy during his walk year, Skubal should become MLB's first $400MM+ pitcher."
"Over the past five Aprils, the #1 players on our initial free agent ranking were: Corey Seager*, Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto and Kyle Tucker. The first four players went on to sign for more than $300MM (well above in Ohtani's and Soto's cases). Tucker had at least one $350MM offer but opted for a shorter deal at a record average annual value."
"Since that's not the case for the 2026-27 class, there's room for debate as to which player enters the season in pole position. Their respective '26 performances will naturally play a large role in determining future contracts, but there are only a handful of players who have a real chance to land the biggest deal among next offseason's hitters."
Tarik Skubal, a two-time defending AL Cy Young winner, stands as the overwhelming favorite to lead the 2026-27 free agent class as a pitcher, likely to command over $400 million. Unlike previous years when top hitters were easily identifiable early, the 2026-27 hitting class lacks a clear frontrunner. Historical patterns show top hitters like Corey Seager, Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, and Kyle Tucker commanded $300 million-plus contracts. The 2026-27 class features several candidates, though factors like age, position, and performance will determine who emerges as the top hitter. Players like Randy Arozarena, despite being excellent hitters, face limitations due to age and position that may prevent them from securing the largest contracts.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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