The MLB's Next Big Contract Extensions: 15 Players to Watch
The race to secure top talent is heating up! With the offseason winding down, teams are shifting their focus to their current rosters, and contract extensions are on the horizon. But which players are likely to be the next big signings? Here's a deep dive into 15 potential candidates, each with their own unique story and impact on their teams.
Zac Gallen and Lucas Giolito: These starting pitchers, once on the Top 30 free-agent list, remain unsigned, leaving a gap in the market. Will they find a new home before Opening Day?
Drake Baldwin, C, Braves (Age 25): The reigning National League Rookie of the Year is a hot prospect. The Braves have a history of locking up young talent, and Baldwin could be next. Extending him now could secure his future with the team, but will they take the plunge?
Hunter Brown, RHP, Astros (Age 27): After a breakout 2025 season, Brown is a rising star. But his agent, Scott Boras, typically prefers free agency. Will the Astros convince Boras to keep their ace in Houston, or will he hit the open market?
Chisholm, SS, Yankees: The Yankees usually let players reach free agency, but exceptions exist. Chisholm's future may depend on Anthony Volpe's development. Should the Yankees extend Chisholm, or is it a risky move?
Logan Gilbert and Bryan Woo, RHP, Mariners: The Mariners have locked down key players but not their young pitchers. Gilbert and Woo, both with impressive records, could be prime candidates for extensions. But will the Mariners act now or wait and see?
MacKenzie Gore, LHP, Rangers: Texas paid a high price for Gore, an All-Star in 2025. With other key pitchers aging, securing Gore long-term could be a strategic move, but will the Rangers make it happen?
Riley Greene, LF, Tigers (Age 25): Greene's impressive power numbers make him a valuable asset. With the Tigers potentially losing Tarik Skubal, extending Greene could be a priority.
Nico Hoerner, 2B, Cubs: The Cubs extended Hoerner in 2023, but with Matt Shaw's new role, will they extend Hoerner again, or is his future uncertain?
Shea Langeliers, C, Athletics: The Athletics have been aggressive in locking up core players. Langeliers' strong performance makes him a likely candidate for an extension.
Wyatt Langford, LF, Rangers: Langford's production and youth make him an attractive extension candidate, especially with the Rangers' financial flexibility.
Jesús Luzardo, LHP, Phillies: With questions in the Phillies' rotation, Luzardo's future is unclear. Will the Phillies prioritize extending him, or is his fate tied to other roster moves?
Jakob Marsee, CF, Marlins: Marsee's impressive rookie performance could prompt the Marlins to offer an early-career deal, ensuring his long-term future with the team.
Jeremy Peña, SS, Astros: The 2022 AL Rookie of the Year is a trade candidate if not extended. His value is high, but will the Astros keep him, or is a trade inevitable?
Freddy Peralta, RHP, Mets: The Mets traded top prospects for Peralta, but their history with long-term pitcher deals is limited. Will Peralta be the exception, or will he test free agency?
Daulton Varsho, OF, Blue Jays: Varsho's elite defense and hitting make him a valuable asset. With limited outfield options beyond 2026, will the Blue Jays extend Varsho, or will he seek a new home?
And there you have it! 15 players with intriguing stories and potential contract extensions on the horizon. Which players do you think will be the next big signings? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments, and let's discuss the future of these MLB stars!
