Title: Evaluating Last Season’s Major MLB Free Agency Deals: Impacts and Future Predictions
The MLB offseason has seen some big names secure lucrative contracts, with players like Kyle Schwarber, Pete Alonso, Alex Bregman, Ranger Suárez, and Dylan Cease already signing deals. Bo Bichette, Kyle Tucker, and Framber Valdez are still in negotiations, raising anticipation among fans and teams alike.
When teams invest heavily in free agents, they are banking on significant returns. However, history shows that not all big free-agent deals yield the desired results. Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable contracts from last year’s free agency cycle and assess their early performances.
Max Fried’s move to the New York Yankees on an eight-year, $218 million deal raised eyebrows. Despite a rough outing in the ALDS Game 2 against the Toronto Blue Jays, Fried’s first season with the Yankees was a resounding success. The left-hander earned his third All-Star nod, secured his fourth Gold Glove Award, and finished fourth in the AL Cy Young Award voting. His impressive 19-5 record and 2.86 ERA over 195.1 innings pitched filled the void left by Gerrit Cole’s absence due to injury. However, with seven years remaining on the contract and Fried entering his 32nd season, the long-term outlook remains a concern, leading to a grade of A-.
Jurickson Profar’s tumultuous start with the Atlanta Braves on a three-year, $42 million deal was marred by an 80-game suspension for a failed drug test. Despite this setback, Profar managed to deliver solid numbers in the games he played, showcasing his hitting prowess with 14 home runs, 43 RBIs, and a .787 OPS in 371 plate appearances. The Braves’ failure to reach the playoffs somewhat spared Profar from postseason ineligibility. Looking ahead, if Profar maintains his performance levels, Atlanta stands a good chance of making a postseason push in the coming season, warranting a grade of C-.
On the other hand, Corbin Burnes’ six-year, $210 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks came with uncertainty due to a player opt-out clause after the 2026 season. Signing a long-term deal with a pitcher always carries inherent risks, with potential for performance fluctuations and injury concerns. The grade of D reflects the unpredictable nature of such contracts, emphasizing the need for caution in evaluating future outcomes.
As the MLB offseason unfolds, the impact of these high-profile signings reverberates across the league, shaping the competitive landscape for the upcoming season. Teams and players alike are closely watching these deals, hoping for success while being mindful of the challenges that come with long-term commitments in professional sports.
Chicago Cubs v. Atlanta BravesArizona Diamondbacks v New York MetsSeattle Mariners v Atlanta Braves
