Top 5 MLB Free Agents Still Available Ahead of 2025 Opening Day
With the 2025 MLB season set to begin in less than a week, teams are finalizing their rosters, hoping to start strong. This offseason saw blockbuster signings, including Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and Alex Bregman, who found new homes after prolonged free agency.
However, despite Spring Training nearing its conclusion, several talented players remain unsigned. Whether due to age, contract demands, or underwhelming performances last season, these five free agents are still looking for a team as Opening Day approaches.
#5. David Robertson – Veteran Reliever Seeking One More Shot
Age: 39 | Position: Relief Pitcher
A former All-Star and World Series champion, David Robertson has had an impressive career as a high-leverage reliever. However, after an underwhelming 2024 season with the Texas Rangers, where he struggled with inconsistency and declining velocity, teams appear hesitant to sign him.
Despite his age and recent struggles, Robertson brings experience and a winning pedigree to any bullpen. If he can prove he still has some gas left in the tank, a contender in need of relief help could take a chance on him.
#4. JD Martinez – Slugger Still Packing Power
Age: 37 | Position: Designated Hitter
A six-time All-Star, JD Martinez has been one of the most consistent power hitters of his generation. In 2024 with the Dodgers, he still produced solid numbers, hitting .275 with 27 home runs and 88 RBIs.
So why is he still unsigned? Age and defensive limitations. Martinez is strictly a DH at this point, limiting his potential suitors. However, teams looking for a veteran bat with playoff experience—such as the San Francisco Giants or Chicago Cubs—could see him as a valuable middle-of-the-order threat.
#3. Blake Snell – A Surprising Free Agent Left Standing
Age: 32 | Position: Starting Pitcher
Just a year ago, Blake Snell won the NL Cy Young Award with a 2.25 ERA and 234 strikeouts for the San Diego Padres. However, he remains unsigned due to contract demands and durability concerns.
Reports suggest Snell has been seeking a long-term deal worth over $150 million, which has scared off potential suitors. Teams may wait until after Opening Day to sign him, as it would allow them to avoid luxury tax penalties.
A short-term deal with incentives could be a compromise that finally gets Snell back on the mound.
#2. Aroldis Chapman – The Fireballer Looking for One More Run
Age: 37 | Position: Relief Pitcher
Aroldis Chapman is no longer the dominant closer he once was, but he still touches 100 mph and posted a 3.66 ERA with 78 strikeouts last season.
The biggest concern? Control issues and inconsistency. He struggled with walks and late-game meltdowns in 2024, which has made teams hesitant. However, bullpen depth is always a need, and Chapman could find a role as a late-inning option for a contender.
#1. Tim Anderson – A Former Batting Champ in Limbo
Age: 31 | Position: Shortstop
Perhaps the most shocking free agent still available, Tim Anderson went from a batting champion (.335 in 2019) to a player struggling to find a team.
His 2024 season with the Chicago White Sox was disastrous, as he hit just .245 with one home run and posted the lowest OPS of his career. The decline in power and defensive struggles have hurt his value, but at just 31 years old, Anderson could still bounce back.
A short-term prove-it deal with a team in need of middle infield depth, like the Boston Red Sox or Cincinnati Reds, could make sense.
Final Thoughts: Who Signs First?
As Opening Day approaches, these free agents may have to adjust their contract expectations or settle for short-term deals. With teams evaluating injuries and roster needs, at least a few of these names should land contracts soon.
Who do you think will sign first? Let us know your predictions! ⚾🔥
