While the Toronto Maple Leafs were battling the Philadelphia Flyers in a 5-2 victory on Saturday, players were scrambling to catch the remaining moments of the Toronto Blue Jays game as they attempted to win their first World Series in 32 years.
The Blue Jays carried a lead going into the ninth until a Miguel Rojas solo home run tied the game and forced extra innings. The Jays had two painful opportunities to win it: first, the Isiah Kiner-Falefa run to home plate that missed the force out by mere millimetres. And then, the dramatic fly out with runners in scoring position, where Los Angeles' Andy Pages collided with Kiké Hernandez to save the championship with a metaphorically appropriate body check.
The Leafs saw most of this heartbreak as they were taxiing on the runway in Philadelphia before flying home. Their window to leave was delayed a bit as they awaited defenseman Chris Tanev, who left the game on a stretcher and ended up staying overnight for further tests before flying home. Before that, they were watching and reacting in the locker room before changing and doing post-game interviews.
“It was heartbreaking, but I think as a fan, and certainly I can speak for a lot of people around the city, the fan base is extremely proud of the type of team,” John Tavares said of the Jays. “I think that's the big emphasis, is what a team that was, and the contributions from everybody, and how they all relied on each other. I think you certainly saw how close they were and how they laid it all out there.”
“They left everything out there. Obviously, we're extremely close, which is probably why it stings and hurts so much because of how close they were, how well they played, and just how they laid it all on the line. But just a great team overall.”
The 2025 Blue Jays captured the spirit of being a completely likeable team, something the Leafs are certainly aspiring to achieve.
“I don’t know them but even I felt like I was part of that loss,” Steven Lorentz told The Hockey News.
Lorentz, along with William Nylander, did not play on Saturday due to injury. Both players kept one eye on their team from the press box at Xfinity Mobile Arena and the other on a screen showing the Jays game, which began about an hour after puck drop.
“They did an unbelievable job. I thought they won like two, three times that day so it was crazy,” Nylander said. “But they did an unbelievable job, just battling and competing. It sucks to lose in Game 7, but I think they did a tremendous job.”
Now that the Jays are no longer in the Toronto sports spotlight, the Maple Leafs must look for lessons from their World Series run. As coach Craig Berube, who coached the St. Louis Blues to a Stanley Cup title in 2019, knows, winning starts with culture.
“It’s camaraderie, good teammates. I think it’s just guys who look forward to coming to the locker room, being around the rink, and being around each other. We have that,” Berube said. “I mean, these guys really like each other, and so the locker room is fine.”
Fernando Valenzuela responds to the cheers at Dodger Stadium after reaching base in a game on April 27, 1981. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Jayne Kamin-Oncea / Los Angeles Times)
Fernando Valenzuela, the Dodgers' left-hander who sparked Fernandomania in 1981, is among the eight names that will be considered by the National Baseball Hall of Fame's Contemporary Baseball Era Committee for induction into next year's class.
The 16-person committee meets every three years and considers players whose primary contributions to the game came since 1980. Any candidate who receives 75% of the votes on ballots cast by the committee will be elected into the Hall of Fame and will be inducted in Cooperstown on July 26, 2026 — along with any inductees elected from the Baseball Writers Assn. of America ballot, which will be announced Jan. 20, 2026.
The other seven players who will be considered by the committee include Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Carlos Delgado, Jeff Kent, Don Mattingly, Dale Murphy and Gary Sheffield.
The 16 members who will review the committee's ballot will be appointed by the National Baseball Hall of Fame's board and be announced later this fall.
Valenzuela, who had his number retired by the Dodgers in 2023 before he died at age 63 in October 2024 on the eve of the Dodgers-Yankees World Series, won 173 games over 17 seasons — 11 of those with the Dodgers — and was a six-time All-Star. He remains the only pitcher to win the rookie of the year and Cy Young awards in the same season in MLB history, but his lasting influence has been the seismic shift in the demographics of the fan base after he burst on the scene during a 1981 season that culminated with a World Series championship.
Despite his impressive run early in his career, Valenzuela did not garner enough support when he was initially eligible for enshrinement to the National Baseball Hall of Fame (75% of the vote from members of the Baseball Writers Assn. of America is needed). In his first year on the ballot in 2003, he netted 6.2% of the vote, surpassing the 5% threshold needed to stay on the ballot for another year. The number dropped to 3.8% in 2004 and he fell off the ballot in subsequent years.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame has three different Era electorates: The Classic Baseball Era Committee, which covers the period before 1980 and includes the Negro Leagues, while the Contemporary Baseball Era Committee has two ballots — one for players and one for managers, executives and umpires whose greatest contributions came since 1980.
The committee for contemporary managers, executives and umpires will deliberate in 2026, with the committee for the classic era scheduled to meet in 2027 before the committee for contemporary players meets again in 2028.
As expected, Yankees outfielder/first basemanCody Bellinger has opted out of the final year of his contract and become a free agent.
Bellinger, who will be entering his age-30 season, had a $25 million player option for 2026.
Acquired by the Yankees from the Cubs last December, Bellinger slashed .272/.334/.480 with 29 home runs, 25 doubles, five triples, 98 RBI, and 89 runs scored in 656 plate appearances over 152 games in 2025 for New York.
He played all three outfield positions, getting the most time in left field, and also made a handful of appearances at first base.
In addition to Bellinger, the Yankees' other high profile free agents are Trent Grisham, Devin Williams, Paul Goldschmidt, and Luke Weaver.
As expected, Mets left-handed relieverA.J. Minter has exercised his player option for the 2026 season.
The option is worth $11 million.
Minter, who signed a two-year deal with the Mets last offseason that contained an opt-out after the first year of the deal, missed most of the 2025 season due to a torn lat muscle that required surgery.
Before getting hurt, Minter was stellar, posting a 1.64 ERA and 1.00 WHIP while striking out 14 in 11.0 innings spanning 13 appearances.
Aside from Minter, Brooks Raley is the only 2025 bullpen member who seems like a lock to be back.
Trade deadline acquisitions Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers, and Gregory Soto are all free agents.
Members of the Mets' 40-man roster who could be relief options next season include Drew Smith (who should be ready to go after rehabbing from Tommy John surgery), Huascar Brazoban (who is arbitration-eligible), Jonathan Pintaro, and Dylan Ross.
Fans line the streets of downtown Los Angeles for the Dodgers World Championship Parade on Monday. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)
Downtown Los Angeles was transformed into a sea of Dodger blue and white Monday, as thousands of fans from across Southern California filled the streets to get a glimpse of the back-to-back World Series champs.
Crowds at Metro stations and around downtown broke out into spontaneous “Go Dodgers” cheers and chants while fans awaited the team's celebratory parade before a rally at Dodger Stadium, capping off the team's World Series run with a dramatic Game 7 finisher.
Fans lined staircases, scaled streetlights, packed freeway overpasses and crammed into balconies along the parade route, in hopes of a better view of the dynasty-making Dodgers, who secured baseball's most coveted title with a star-studded lineup that hailed from around the globe — similar to the city of immigrants it represents.
Some said they arrived before sunrise to secure prime parade-route seats. Parents joked about cases of the "Dodger flu" allowing their school-age children to join in the historic day. Angelenos from all walks of life danced and cheered as stereos and car speakers blasted Kendrick Lamar, Ice Cube, Nate Dogg and, of course, Randy Newman's "I Love L.A."
“Back-to-back, baby!” a teenager shouted over the chorus of vuvuzelas and music.
The citywide celebration mostly featured good-natured revelry, but the Los Angeles Police Department reported at least one severe injury as officers attempted to clear downtown streets after the parade. It wasn't immediately clear what happened, but the LAPD issued a dispersal order around 1 p.m., blaming the crowd for blocking officers from reaching the injured person.
The agency reported that some rowdy fans had refused to leave, including a DJ who set up and played music to an estimated 700 people. Several others also set off fireworks.
Police also reported that a California Highway Patrol vehicle was surrounded and vandalized by parade participants.
By 2:30 p.m., however, the LAPD reported that the large crowds had mostly left the area and thanked those who supported the Dodgers "in a respectful and peaceful manner."
Tens of thousands of people could be seen packed between downtown's skyscrapers, but the LAPD did not provide an official estimate on the size of the parade crowd. Dodger Stadium, which has the highest capacity in baseball, was packed.
As the team's open-air, double-decker buses hit Temple Street on Monday morning, fans neared hysteria, shouting their favorite players' names and raising their fists in the air.
From one of the buses, pitcher Blake Snell pointed at the crowd while an armada of buzzing aerial drones dodged blasts from confetti cannons. A “Freddie! Freddie!" chant broke out when fans spotted the Dodgers' first baseman, renowned for his World Series heroics.
"This is insane," Freeman said of the parade crowd. "I feel like it’s almost double from last year."
Further down the route, Jane Lee held up a sign for pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who cemented his World Series MVP status in Game 7 when he took the mound to record the final eight outs after starting Game 6. On top of winning MVP of the series, Lee designated him “best pitcher” on her homemade sign, which ended with a word written in Japanese.
“Arigato!” the Monterey Park resident said. Others echoed her shout, and it soon became a raucous chorus of gleeful thank-yous for the Japan native — fully embraced by the city of Angels.
Ken Suzuki, a college student from Japan, brought similar energy to 2nd Street, where he waved a Japanese flag.
“I’ve followed Yamamoto since he played in Japan. It’s so wild to see him dominate on such a big stage,” Suzuki said.
The parade kicked off at 11 a.m. By noon, the team arrived at their stadium, where players and staff thanked fans and commemorated a historic season — and called for another.
“What’s better than two? Three! Three-peat! Three-peat!” Dave Roberts, the Dodgers' manager, shouted to the roaring crowd.
All day, Dodgers fans couldn't shake off their glee.
In knee-high Dodgers socks along the parade route, Mark Krojansky waxed poetic over the fact that his kids had already experienced three Dodger championships. He'd had to wait three decades between the 1988 win and 2020 — but said it was well worth it.
“This could be the only time for many, many years, you never know,” Krojansky said. “We deserve it.”
The 2025 Dodgers team has been a bright spot during an otherwise tumultuous year for the region, after wind-driven firestorms devastated thousands of homes in January and then widespread immigration sweeps began over the summer by the Trump administration, specifically targeting Los Angeles.
Carlos Soto, a San Bernardino resident, said the parade was a much-needed respite after the challenging year.
"I definitely feel the city needs a lift," Soto said. "It is something that brings the community together across nationalities and political lines and unites everybody — it's something that's very needed."
Chuck Berez, a decades-long Dodgers fan from L.A., was walking toward the parade route Monday morning and said the love from the organization and its fans embodied the city itself.
“They stick together. … You got to weather the storm and look at the big picture,” Berez said. “The way they came through in the clutch, you know, just showing you their resilience and their experience.”
Los Angeles transplant Aaron Wole, a hospital worker originally from Florida, felt that spirit these last few weeks. Despite being a lifelong Rays fan, he donned an Ohtani jersey Monday morning at the parade.
“When in Rome, you got to do as the Romans.… This doesn’t happen much in Florida,” Wole said. “In moments like these, you feel included in the community. It really feels like a great atmosphere with all these fans.”
Times staff writer Jack Harris contributed to this report.
Los Angeles’ 5-4, 11-inning win over Toronto in Game 7 on Saturday night capped a postseason with seven winner-take-all games, two more than any previous year.
Shohei Ohtani is building a case as the sport’s best player ever with his unprecedented two-way performances, captivating audiences outside the U.S. unlike any previous player.
“It just absolutely been the greatest benefit to the game that you can imagine throughout the year,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred.
Toronto’s success this year sparked interest throughout Canada, which gave the Blue Jays nationwide support.
Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., Paul Skenes and Cal Raleigh already have committed to play for the United States in next year’s World Baseball Classic, which is gaining increased interest with each addition.
And MLB is negotiating to send big league players to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during an extended All-Star break.
“Players are interested in playing, whether it’s for the Team USA or any number of other teams around the world,” union head Tony Clark said.
The Dodgers are already talking about a three-peat
Minutes after the Dodgers became the first repeat champion since the 1998-2000 New York Yankees, Dodgers star Freddie Freeman said matching that pinstriped power was the next goal.
“The Yankees are three-time back-to-back,” he said, “so we get to use that same narrative next year.”
Those Yankees are among just four instances of teams winning three or more consecutive championships alongside five by the 1949-53 Yankees, four by the 1936-39 Yankees and three by the 1972-74 Oakland Athletics.
Big market spending sparks talk of salary-cap proposal
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts attracted attention after the National League Championship Series sweep of Milwaukee when he yelled to Los Angeles fans: “They said the Dodgers are ruining baseball. Let’s get four more wins and really ruin baseball!”
Los Angeles entered the World Series having spent $509.5 million in major league payroll and projected luxury tax, plus another $6.5 million for pitcher Roki Sasaki’s minor league signing bonus.
Including Sasaki’s bonus, the Dodgers spending for its two World Series title teams totaled at least $890 million. The New York Mets, who failed to reach the playoffs this year after getting knocked out in last year’s NLCS, have spent about $860 million in 2024 and ’25.
In a sign of how much payroll disparity has increased, the Athletics spent less than $150 million over the same period.
Manfred repeatedly has said owners haven’t settled on their labor proposals, but the players’ association is bracing to resist a push for a salary cap. Demand for a cap from owners is what led to a 7 1/2-month strike in 1994-95 and the first cancellation of the World Series in 90 years.
The labor contract expires on Dec. 2, 2026, and bargaining is likely to start this winter or spring.
More Japanese players likely headed to MLB
Following the success of Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki, more Japanese players may sign with MLB teams.
Munetaka Murakami, a third baseman and first baseman who turns 26 in February, is expected to be posted by the Yakult Swallows. He hit .273 with 22 homers and 47 RBIs this year, limited to 56 games by an oblique injury. A two-time Central League MVP, in 2022 he hit 56 homers to break Sadaharu Oh’s record for a Japanese-born player while becoming the youngest player to earn Japan’s Triple Crown.
Kazuma Okamoto, a 29-year-old third baseman and first baseman. will be posted by the Yomiuri Giants. He has 248 homers in 11 Central League seasons, hitting 30 or more from 2018-23.
Tatsuya Imai, a 27-year-old right-hander, could be posted by the Seibu Lions. He struck out 17 against Yokohama on June 17, breaking Daisuke Matsuzaka’s prior team record of 16 from 2004.
Here come the robots
Game 7 of the World Series was MLB’s last with human umpires making all ball/strike calls.
Starting next season, the Automated Ball/Strike System will be installed in all big league ballparks and batters, catchers and pitchers will be able to appeal decisions to a high-tech system of cameras tracking each pitch and judging whether it crossed home plate within the strike zone.
Each team has the ability to challenge two calls per game and a team retains its challenge if successful, similar to the regulations for video review, which has been in place for many calls since 2014. Teams that exhaust their challenges get one additional challenge in each extra inning.
As teams dive deep into their strategies for revamping rosters, let’s have some fun. That’s what our Bold Predictions for the MLB offseason are all about. We’ll touch on potential transactions, signings, awards. Some New York related, some New York adjacent.
Will these be 100 percent correct? Probably.
(Probably not!).
It’s all part of the Bold Predictions game, people. Read on to prep for hot stove magic, whether it’s based in reality or frivolity:
The Brothers Diaz reunite in Queens
Edwin Díaz’s brother, Alexis, started his MLB career with two very strong relief seasons with the Reds, but struggled mightily in 2025, notching an 8.15 ERA in 18 games with three teams. The 29-year-old righty is a free agent now and our crystal ball suggests the Mets take a chance on him as a setup man – after they run him through their pitching lab for a few fixes, of course. It fits David Stearns’ MO of seeking unexpected pitching production, and the Mets bullpen needs bodies. Oh, yeah – guess this means we are also predicting Edwin Díaz, who holds a contract opt-out, re-signs with the Mets.
Munetaka Murakami ships off to Boston
The 25-year-old Japanese slugger figures to be a big name this winter as he’s supposed to be posted and come to MLB. The Dodgers have been a comfy and successful landing spot for NPB stars recently – Hello? Did you watch the postseason? – but the Red Sox win out here, pitching their on-the-upswing roster. If (when?) Alex Bregman opts out and departs, Murakami could play third. Or he could man first. There’ll be plenty of competition, though – Stearns saw Murakami hit a walkoff homer on a visit to Japan, and other big-name hunters will lurk, too, perhaps even the Yankees.
Spending Rays
The Tampa Bay Rays have always been smart and competitive while operating at a lower budget than fellow AL East superpowers. Now they’re under new majority ownership. Maybe the new bigwigs add some zeroes to the payroll to start their stewardship with sizzle. That would create another landing place for big-name free agents. Heck, Pete Alonso’s from Tampa. Maybe he wants to go home.
Jul 9, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) hits an RBI double in the sixth inning against the Seattle Mariners at Yankee Stadium. / Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
We’re not saying we favor Raleigh outpacing Judge in the AL MVP voting, just that it will happen. To recap the debate: Raleigh, an excellent catcher, hit 60 home runs -- the 10th season ever with 60 homers -- and led the league with 125 RBI. Judge demolished just about everything else, including winning the batting title, notching an OPS of 1.144 (196 points higher than Raleigh) and whacking 53 homers. Judge had the better season, but Raleigh’s feats, all while appearing in 121 games behind the plate and 38 more as the DH, sway voters. Long live narrative!
Kyle Tucker joins the champs
Far from ruining baseball, the Dodgers are experts at amassing talent and they have a looming weakness that could stand in the way of their three-peat quest. The Dodgers won the World Series despite a minus-eight run differential, a .203 average, and a .658 OPS. Toronto topped them easily in those categories, though LA won the homer battle, 11-8. Los Angeles needs offense, particularly in the outfield. So they sign Kyle Tucker, the consensus top bat available. Boo hoo, Dodger haters.
No deal
You, like everyone else interested in baseball, have been trading Marlin players to your favorite teams for years. Oh, the Mets or Yankees need a pitcher? They’ll get Sandy Alcantara from Miami. Nah, they want someone younger, so it’ll be Eury Pérez. However, this winter, the Marlins thumb their noses at the idea they’re just your farm team, don’t deal their arms, and go for the playoffs. Hey, they had the second-best record in the NL East over the second half of last season.
Apr 27, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette (11) tags out New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe (11) on a steal attempt at second base during the eighth inning at Yankee Stadium. / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Mets sign Bo Bichette to play second base
After a dud 2025, we think the Mets will look to make many splashes this winter. Here’s one with reverberations – they sign Bo Bichette, a tough, clutch player who gets oodles of hits, and move him off shortstop. Yeah, he had a bummer of a 2024. Yeah, he had a nifty 2025, including what, under a different result, would be a legendary World Series home run. Here comes the reverb – this means they seek to trade Jeff McNeil, which would address the changing-of-the-core theorem that some believe the Mets need. If Bichette profiles better at third, then shift Brett Baty to second.
Spencer for Steven, even up
Schooled by the Jays all year including in October, the Yanks nab something from Toronto’s playbook and add non-strikeout, plus-contact offense to their roster via trade by dangling top prospect Spencer Jones. Can they pry Steven Kwan from Cleveland? He’d be an ideal leadoff hitter who also happens to be the best defensive left fielder in baseball. And Yankee Stadium’s spacious left field needs proper tending. Kwan had an 8.7 percent strikeout rate this past season. The MLB average is 22.5 percent; Yanks had the sixth-highest rate in MLB (23.5 percent).
OK, maybe this is about as bold as predicting Kyle Schwarber returns to the Phillies (he will), but Alonso re-signs with the Mets. Mets fans set a Citi Field attendance record last season and the team was a disappointment. Can they really let the disappointment linger through the winter by letting Alonso leave? What if he (gulp) goes to the Yankees? The Polar Bear returning is a special treat for Mets fans and a huge boost to a lineup that would be lacking without him.
Nice winter for a trade, eh, Skub?
After protracted negotiations and much shopping around, the Tigers finally trade ace Tarik Skubal to the Mets. Detroit insists on Nolan McLean’s inclusion, but Stearns and Co. balk. Instead, the Mets send some combination of four name prospects, including Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat, to get one year of baseball’s best lefty. If that prospect package feels like a lot to give up for one guaranteed season, well, who the heck knows what baseball will look like after 2026, what with the looming labor talks? There’s more work to do after this move – the Mets must sign Skubal long term – but taking big swings this winter feels right for a team that has won the World Series exactly twice in its history.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto is mobbed after the Dodgers won the 121st World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
The Los Angeles Dodgers' thrilling 11-inning Saturday win over the Toronto Blue Jays was the most watched World Series game since 2017, according to Nielsen data.
The Fox telecast of the Game 7 contest giving the Dodgers their second consecutive world championship attracted an average of 25. 5 million viewers on Fox.
Viewers watching the Spanish-language telecast on Fox Deportes and Fox Sports streaming platforms brought the audience figure to just under 26 million.
The Dodgers' 5-4 win delivered the largest audience for a World Series game since the Houston Astros' Game 7 win over the the team in 2017, which had an audience of 28.3 million.
The figure was 10% over the last decisive World Series Game 7 in 2019, when the Washington Nationals defeated the Astros.
The battle on Saturday will go down as one of the most memorable games in World Series history, with a number of spectacular plays in the field and a dramatic go-ahead home run by Dodgers catcher Will Smith.
Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto won his third game of the series with his strong relief outing, earning him the Most Valuable Player Award for the series.
The audience level peaked between 8:30 and 8:45 p.m. Pacific, with 31.5 million viewers tuned in.
The Dodgers became the first Major League Baseball team to win back-to-back championships in 25 years.
The 2025-26 MLB free agency period got fully underway at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, as free agents are now allowed to sign with a new team.
The opening of free agency came just days after the Los Angeles Dodgers successfully defended their crown by beating the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2025 World Series championship. But now, the chase for the 2026 title is on.
So, from the top players available to how the qualifying offer works and more, here’s everything you need to know about MLB free agency:
When does MLB free agency start?
Players scheduled to hit free agency officially became free agents the day after the World Series ended. At that time, teams were able to re-sign their departing free agents.
But players weren’t permitted to sign with a new club until 5 p.m. ET on the fifth day after the World Series ended.
When is the MLB option deadline?
The exercising of a player, club or mutual option had to occur within five days following the conclusion of the World Series.
Teams had five days after the World Series ended to extend qualifying offers to their departing free agents. A team could only extend a qualifying offer to a player who hadn’t received one before and spent the entire 2025 season on its roster.
The qualifying offer is a one-year deal with a value equal to the mean salary of MLB’s 125 highest-paid players, and a player has until 4 p.m. ET on Nov. 18 to accept it.
Should a player reject the qualifying offer and then sign with a new club in free agency, the team who lost the free agent will receive a compensatory draft pick. A club that signs a rival player who rejected a qualifying offer is subject to the loss of at least one draft pick.
How much is the MLB qualifying offer worth?
This year’s qualifying offer is worth $22.025 million.
Which MLB players received the qualifying offer?
Here are the 13 players who were extended the qualifying offer, according to multiplereports:
Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
Dylan Cease, RHP, San Diego Padres
Edwin Díaz, RHP, New York Mets
Zac Gallen, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks
Trent Grisham, OF, New York Yankees
Shota Imanaga, LHP, Chicago Cubs
Michael King, RHP, San Diego Padres
Kyle Schwarber, DH, Philadelphia Phillies
Ranger Suárez, LHP, Philadelphia Phillies
Gleyber Torres, 2B/SS, Detroit Tigers
Kyle Tucker, OF, Chicago Cubs
Framber Valdez, LHP, Houston Astros
Brandon Woodruff, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers
When are the MLB Winter Meetings?
The Winter Meetings will run from Dec. 8-11 in Orlando, Florida.
Who are the top 2026 MLB free agents?
Here’s a look at the top players who hit free agency (listed alphabetically by last name, all contract details via Spotrac):
Josh Naylor, a trade deadline pickup from Arizona, hit three homers with a .967 OPS across 12 games in the 2025 playoffs. (Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images)
The 2025-26 MLB free agency period got fully underway at 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, as free agents are now allowed to sign with a new team.
The opening of free agency came just days after the Los Angeles Dodgers successfully defended their crown by beating the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2025 World Series championship. But now, the chase for the 2026 title is on.
So, from the top players available to how the qualifying offer works and more, here’s everything you need to know about MLB free agency:
When does MLB free agency start?
Players scheduled to hit free agency officially became free agents the day after the World Series ended. At that time, teams were able to re-sign their departing free agents.
But players weren’t permitted to sign with a new club until 5 p.m. ET on the fifth day after the World Series ended.
When is the MLB option deadline?
The exercising of a player, club or mutual option had to occur within five days following the conclusion of the World Series.
Teams had five days after the World Series ended to extend qualifying offers to their departing free agents. A team could only extend a qualifying offer to a player who hadn’t received one before and spent the entire 2025 season on its roster.
The qualifying offer is a one-year deal with a value equal to the mean salary of MLB’s 125 highest-paid players, and a player has until 4 p.m. ET on Nov. 18 to accept it.
Should a player reject the qualifying offer and then sign with a new club in free agency, the team who lost the free agent will receive a compensatory draft pick. A club that signs a rival player who rejected a qualifying offer is subject to the loss of at least one draft pick.
How much is the MLB qualifying offer worth?
This year’s qualifying offer is worth $22.025 million.
Which MLB players received the qualifying offer?
Here are the 13 players who were extended the qualifying offer, according to multiplereports:
Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
Dylan Cease, RHP, San Diego Padres
Edwin Díaz, RHP, New York Mets
Zac Gallen, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks
Trent Grisham, OF, New York Yankees
Shota Imanaga, LHP, Chicago Cubs
Michael King, RHP, San Diego Padres
Kyle Schwarber, DH, Philadelphia Phillies
Ranger Suárez, LHP, Philadelphia Phillies
Gleyber Torres, 2B/SS, Detroit Tigers
Kyle Tucker, OF, Chicago Cubs
Framber Valdez, LHP, Houston Astros
Brandon Woodruff, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers
When are the MLB Winter Meetings?
The Winter Meetings will run from Dec. 8-11 in Orlando, Florida.
Who are the top 2026 MLB free agents?
Here’s a look at the top players who hit free agency (listed alphabetically by last name, all contract details via Spotrac):
Josh Naylor, a trade deadline pickup from Arizona, hit three homers with a .967 OPS across 12 games in the 2025 playoffs. (Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images)
This year's free agent class is led by star outfielder Kyle Tucker, who will be entering his age-29 season in 2026 and could get a deal worth around $400 million.
Tucker, an All-Star the last four seasons who has a career OPS+ of 140, will obviously be highly sought after. And he would fit perfectly in the Mets' lineup.
But that would really only be feasible if Brandon Nimmo is traded. And that doesn't seem like something that's in the cards.
Here are the ones the Mets should be targeting, ranked:
10. INF Bo Bichette
Bichette had a huge bounce back season for the Blue Jays in 2025, hitting .311/.357/.483 with an .840 OPS.
Ahead of his age-28 campaign Bichette seems destined for a big commitment in terms of years. And with the Mets, he'd have to switch positions (likely to second base). As fun as it would be to have Francisco Lindor and Bichette up the middle for years to come, this one feels like more of a fallback option.
9. DH Kyle Schwarber
It's really hard to see Schwarber leaving the Phillies, which is why he isn't higher on this list.
Jul 15, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; National League designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts in the home run swing off tiebreaker during the 2025 MLB All Star Game at Truist Park. / Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Another reason why Schwarber isn't higher is because his presence would completely lock up the designated hitter spot, which the Mets could need some flexibility with if they re-sign Pete Alonso and/or get creative with how Nimmo is utilized.
8. RHP Michael King
King isn't getting nearly as much attention as Valdez or Suarez, probably due to the fact that he made just 15 starts in 2025 as he dealt with a nerve injury in his throwing shoulder and also lost time due to a knee injury.
But King was tremendous for the Padres in 2024 as he made the transition from relieving to starting, and could be a very good option for New York on a shorter-term deal if his medicals check out.
7. INF Alex Bregman
Yes, Bregman is going to be 32 years old next season. But he is still a really good, consistent hitter. And he's a plus defender at third base. Additionally, Bregman is viewed as a strong clubhouse presence and a leader.
In a world where the Mets shake up their offensive core, Bregman at the hot corner could make a lot of sense.
But as a finishing piece of sorts for the starting rotation, Cease would bring the floor of a solid innings-eater and the upside of a Cy Young candidate.
And signing Cease would be especially shrewd if it only takes a three-year deal or so.
San Diego Padres starting pitcher Dylan Cease (84) pitches against the New York Mets during the first inning at Petco Park. / Orlando Ramirez - Imagn Images
Cease had a relatively down 2025, posting a 4.55 ERA and 1.32 WHIP. But his FIP (3.56) suggests he was a bit unlucky, and his stuff -- he led all MLB starters with 11.5 strikeouts per nine -- can be filthy.
5. RHP Robert Suarez
Regardless of what happens with Edwin Diaz, the Mets should aggressively pursue Suarez, who will almost certainly opt out of the final two years and roughly $18.5 million of his contract with the Padres.
If the Mets lose Diaz via free agency, Suarez can replace him as the closer.
If the Mets retain Diaz, Suarez can fill an enormous need as a hard-throwing right-handed setup man.
Even with Suarez entering his age-35 season, it could take a three-year contract to land him. In a better scenario, perhaps he can be had on a two-year deal at a much higher average annual value than the one he's about to opt out of.
4. 1B/3B Munetaka Murakami
Murakami, who will be entering his age-26 season in 2026, has absolutely massive power.
His biggest power season came in 2022, when he slugged .710 and smashed a career-high 56 homers.
Murakami was limited to just 56 games in 2025, but he made the most of them, smacking 22 homers while slashing .273/.379/.663.
The elephant(s) in the room? Murakami strikes out a ton and is not a plus defender.
But if the Mets loseAlonso, they could do a lot worse than Murakami, who could be a true difference-maker if his power translates to the majors and is five years younger than Alonso.
3. 1B/3B Kazuma Okamoto
Okamoto -- a six-time All-Star in Japan -- has led the Central league in home runs three times (2020, 2021, and 2023), and has an .882 OPS in 1,074 NPB games.
And he is a better fit than Murakami for two reasons, despite being 29 years old.
Mar 16, 2025; Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan; Yomiuri Giants first baseman Kazuma Okamoto (25) hits a single against the Chicago Cubs during the second inning at Tokyo Dome. / Darren Yamashita - Imagn Images
First, while there are some questions about how Okamoto's power will translate, he does not have the strikeout issues Murakami has.
Second, Okamoto is a plus defender, having won two Golden Glove awards (2021 and 2022).
Okamoto could be a replacement at first base if Alonso departs via free agency. He could also fit at third base if the Mets decide to go in a different direction there.
A year after Alonso hit free agency for the first time, resulting in a drawn out process that ended with him returning to the Mets, he will be a free agent again once he opts out of his two-year deal.
As was the case last offseason, the Mets' best fit at first base (and in the middle of their lineup) is Alonso, and Alonso's best fit is the Mets.
Is it possible a team like the Angels goes wild and offers Alonso a deal for five or six years? Sure. Is it possible the Mariners or Red Sox offer Alonso a four-year deal at dollars the Mets aren't comfortable with? Yes.
But the most sensible outcome here is Alonso returning to the Mets on a three-or four-year deal worth roughly $30 million annually.
Retaining Diaz should be the easiest decision the Mets make all offseason.
Diaz, fresh off a year where he had a 1.63 ERA and 0.87 WHIP with 98 strikeouts in 66.1 innings, is expected to opt out of the final two years and roughly $38 million of his deal.
The calculus here should be simple. To bring Diaz back, the Mets would likely have to in effect add two years at similar dollars to the deal he was already pitching under.
Diaz is showing no signs of regression. The Mets need a closer. Diaz has posted a 2.36 ERA and 0.97 WHIP since 2020 while striking out 14.6 batters per nine and pitching in the New York spotlight. Diaz wants to be here. There are no better options to replace him. Get it done.
By definition, a Game 7 always delivers. While the official ratings data won’t appear for at least another 24 hours, Fox’s super-stuffed Dodgers-Blue Jays finale has drawn an audience that’s commensurate with the sheer can’t-miss thrills of Saturday night’s 11-inning masterpiece.
According to preliminary Nielsen data, the final game of the 2025 MLB season averaged just shy of 26 million viewers across the broadcast flagship and the Fox Sports streaming platforms, a figure which marks the biggest TV turnout for a baseball game since Game 7 of the 2017 World Series. (The Astros’ 5-1 victory over the Dodgers eight years ago averaged 28.3 million viewers).
As the rushed fast-national numbers do not reflect Nielsen’s newly-implemented “Big Data + Panel” currency, it’s worth noting that the official deliveries are almost certain to exceed the 25,984,000 viewers captured via the first stab at a Game 7 rating. That said, the extra boost from set-top boxes and connected TVs isn’t likely to beat out the final tally for the analogous broadcast in 2017.
Even a modest 4% lift in the final BDP figures should send Fox right to the outskirts of the 27 million-viewer mark, an outcome that would place Game 7 among the top 25 most-watched broadcasts of 2025. By way of comparison, the concluding frame of last season’s Yankees-Dodgers Fall Classic averaged 18.2 million viewers, making Game 5 the 84th-biggest draw of the year.
Fox said Saturday night’s clincher peaked with 31.5 million viewers in the 11:30 p.m. ET quarter-hour.
By virtue of their relative scarcity—there have been eight empty-the-tank outings since the century began—every Game 7 is an unqualified treat, but the Dodgers’ clinch was one for the ages. L.A. not only became the first club to repeat as World Series champs since the 1998-2000 Yankees, but on the way to the title they served up Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s MVP performance (a 34-pitch mopping up that arrived just one day after the hurler threw 96) and a highlight-reel performance by Miguel Rojas. The No. 9 hitter launched the tying homer in the top of the ninth before making a game-saving throw to the plate with the bases loaded at the bottom of the same inning.
Will Smith’s solo blast in the 11th sealed the Jays’ fate, but along the way fans feasted on a host of World Series anomalies, including a rare bench-clearing in the bottom of the fourth after Dodgers reliever Justin Wrobleski plunked Jays shortstop Andrés Giménez with a four-seamer. And while Clayton Kershaw wasn’t called upon on Saturday night, the roster of all-world pitchers that took the hill in the finale included the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Max Scherzer, Tyler Glasnow, Trey Yesavage and Yamamoto.
The official Nielsen data is expected to land Tuesday afternoon.
As the Phillies head into what could be their most pivotal offseason in years, the front office faces a long to-do list.
Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, Ranger Suárez, Harrison Bader and Max Kepler headline a crowded free-agent class, while bullpen arms Jordan Romano, David Robertson, Lou Trivino and Tim Mayza — plus starter Walker Buehler — are also set to hit the market.
With needs behind the plate, across the pitching staff and in the outfield, expect Dave Dombrowski to be aggressive with his payroll.
Here’s a look at ten realistic targets who could fit what the Phillies need:
If J.T. Realmuto departs, Caratini offers a capable bridge option. The 32-year-old quietly put together one of his best seasons, ranking in the 77th percentile or better in chase, whiff, and strikeout rate. His switch-hitting bat provides steady contact and the ability to get on base, but defensive inconsistency has limited him to part-time duty in recent stops. The Phillies could pair Caratini with Rafael Marchán to form a balanced tandem that prioritizes contact and pitch-handling without a major financial commitment.
Alonso remains one of baseball’s most dangerous right-handed hitters. In his seventh big league season, he ranked in the 95th percentile or better in average exit velocity, barrel rate, and expected slugging. The glove remains serviceable, but his power makes him elite — and he’d bring a true middle-of-the-order presence if Kyle Schwarber walks. Alonso’s durability, big-market experience, and run production make him an ideal fit to protect Bryce Harper and add balance to a lefty-heavy lineup.
Naylor’s bat brings a lot of stability. The 29-year-old limited strikeouts (83 Ks in 604 PAs) while maintaining strong production against both lefties (.287) and righties (.298). With runners on, he slashed .324/.376/.506, showing value in bigspots. His 30 steals made him just the fourth primary first baseman in MLB history to post a 20–30 season. For a team that could use more contact and situational hitting, Naylor’s aggressive but controlled approach would fit cleanly into Philadelphia’s middle order.
If the Phillies explore upgrading from Alec Bohm, Bregman is the logical choice. The 32-year-old posted a 128 OPS+ and continued to provide solid defense (3 OAA) at third base. His career postseason line — .791 OPS with 19 homers — reflects the consistency the Phillies have lacked in October. A disciplined right-handed bat with elite control of the zone, Bregman fits the front office’s preference for veterans with playoff experience and on-base skills.
Robert’s season was cut short by a hamstring strain in August, but the talent remains obvious. The 28-year-old ranked in the 93rd percentile in outs above average and 90th in sprint speed, swiping 33 bases despite limited action. A change of scenery could help him recapture his 2023 All-Star form at the plate, when he hit 38 homers with an .857 OPS. The White Sox are unlikely to pick up his option unless they plan to trade him, and Philadelphia’s need for right-handed power and athleticism makes him an intriguing fit.
After a breakout 2023 in Washington (28 HR, 32 SB), Thomas hasn’t replicated that success. Still, his underlying metrics — 94th percentile sprint speed and 88th percentile arm strength — make him a strong buy-low target as a fourth outfielder. A career .292/.359/.500 hitter against lefties, he’d complement Brandon Marsh in a corner-outfield platoon. At 30, Thomas could fill a depth role with the chance for more if he rebounds at the plate.
Eflin’s 2025 was cut short by multiple injuries, ending with back surgery, but his prior two seasons (3.59 ERA, 1.09 WHIP over 59 starts) proved his dependability when healthy. The right-hander was tied for second in the American League in wins in that stretch (26). The Phillies know the 31-year-old well, and a reunion would make sense given Zack Wheeler’s uncertain timeline and Ranger Suárez’s free agency. Eflin’s command and five-pitch mix help him eat up innings, which could fit the backend of the Phils rotation, especially if Taijuan Walker is dealt.
Projected contract: 2 years, $32 million
Jordan Montgomery, SP
2025: Did not pitch (injured) | 2024: 21 GS, 8–7, 6.23 ERA, 117 IP, 83 K, 1.65 WHIP
Montgomery missed 2025 recovering from Tommy John surgery, but his 2021–23 stretch (30 or more starts each year, 3.48 ERA) shows what he can still offer. The 32-year-old’s postseason success — 2.63 ERA in 37.2 IP — fits Philadelphia’s mold of proven October performers. If Suárez departs, Montgomery represents a solid short-term lefty option who can slot into the middle of the rotation once healthy.
Rogers led all relievers in appearances and posted the lowest ERA among pitchers with at least 70 innings. His unique submarine delivery induces soft contact better than anyone — ranking in the 99th percentile in average exit velocity and 100th in walk rate and barrel percentage. The 35-year-old remains effective and could be an extremely successful setup man to closer Jhoan Duran. Rogers’ style contrasts perfectly with Philadelphia’s power-heavy bullpen mix.
Projected contract: 2 years, $35 million
Derek Law, RP
2025: Did not pitch (injured) | 2024: 75 G, 7–4, 2.60 ERA, 90 IP, 76 K, 1.18 WHIP
Law missed all of 2025 with a partial flexor tear but is expected back midseason. In 2024, he ranked in the 96th percentile for chase and barrel rate thanks to his slider-cutter combo. A healthy Law could stabilize Philadelphia’s middle innings, where depth faltered in the postseason. Given his track record and versatility, he’s a low-risk veteran option who could return solid value in the sixth and seventh innings.
Projected contract: 2 years, $11 million
FA begins, important dates to know
Free agency began Sunday, but teams have five days of exclusive negotiation with their own players before outside offers are permitted on Nov. 6. All option and opt-out decisions must be finalized within that window, with qualifying-offer announcements to follow (Nov. 18). The GM Meetings in Las Vegas (Nov. 10–13) typically mark the first movement, while the Winter Meetings in Orlando (Dec. 7–10) remain the offseason’s busiest stretch. Arbitration figures are exchanged in early January, and the international signing period opens on Jan. 15.
As the Phillies head into what could be their most pivotal offseason in years, the front office faces a long to-do list.
Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, Ranger Suárez, Harrison Bader and Max Kepler headline a crowded free-agent class, while bullpen arms Jordan Romano, David Robertson, Lou Trivino and Tim Mayza — plus starter Walker Buehler — are also set to hit the market.
With needs behind the plate, across the pitching staff and in the outfield, expect Dave Dombrowski to be aggressive with his payroll.
Here’s a look at ten realistic targets who could fit what the Phillies need:
If J.T. Realmuto departs, Caratini offers a capable bridge option. The 32-year-old quietly put together one of his best seasons, ranking in the 77th percentile or better in chase, whiff, and strikeout rate. His switch-hitting bat provides steady contact and the ability to get on base, but defensive inconsistency has limited him to part-time duty in recent stops. The Phillies could pair Caratini with Rafael Marchán to form a balanced tandem that prioritizes contact and pitch-handling without a major financial commitment.
Alonso remains one of baseball’s most dangerous right-handed hitters. In his seventh big league season, he ranked in the 95th percentile or better in average exit velocity, barrel rate, and expected slugging. The glove remains serviceable, but his power makes him elite — and he’d bring a true middle-of-the-order presence if Kyle Schwarber walks. Alonso’s durability, big-market experience, and run production make him an ideal fit to protect Bryce Harper and add balance to a lefty-heavy lineup.
Naylor’s bat brings a lot of stability. The 29-year-old limited strikeouts (83 Ks in 604 PAs) while maintaining strong production against both lefties (.287) and righties (.298). With runners on, he slashed .324/.376/.506, showing value in bigspots. His 30 steals made him just the fourth primary first baseman in MLB history to post a 20–30 season. For a team that could use more contact and situational hitting, Naylor’s aggressive but controlled approach would fit cleanly into Philadelphia’s middle order.
If the Phillies explore upgrading from Alec Bohm, Bregman is the logical choice. The 32-year-old posted a 128 OPS+ and continued to provide solid defense (3 OAA) at third base. His career postseason line — .791 OPS with 19 homers — reflects the consistency the Phillies have lacked in October. A disciplined right-handed bat with elite control of the zone, Bregman fits the front office’s preference for veterans with playoff experience and on-base skills.
Robert’s season was cut short by a hamstring strain in August, but the talent remains obvious. The 28-year-old ranked in the 93rd percentile in outs above average and 90th in sprint speed, swiping 33 bases despite limited action. A change of scenery could help him recapture his 2023 All-Star form at the plate, when he hit 38 homers with an .857 OPS. The White Sox are unlikely to pick up his option unless they plan to trade him, and Philadelphia’s need for right-handed power and athleticism makes him an intriguing fit.
After a breakout 2023 in Washington (28 HR, 32 SB), Thomas hasn’t replicated that success. Still, his underlying metrics — 94th percentile sprint speed and 88th percentile arm strength — make him a strong buy-low target as a fourth outfielder. A career .292/.359/.500 hitter against lefties, he’d complement Brandon Marsh in a corner-outfield platoon. At 30, Thomas could fill a depth role with the chance for more if he rebounds at the plate.
Eflin’s 2025 was cut short by multiple injuries, ending with back surgery, but his prior two seasons (3.59 ERA, 1.09 WHIP over 59 starts) proved his dependability when healthy. The right-hander was tied for second in the American League in wins in that stretch (26). The Phillies know the 31-year-old well, and a reunion would make sense given Zack Wheeler’s uncertain timeline and Ranger Suárez’s free agency. Eflin’s command and five-pitch mix help him eat up innings, which could fit the backend of the Phils rotation, especially if Taijuan Walker is dealt.
Projected contract: 2 years, $32 million
Jordan Montgomery, SP
2025: Did not pitch (injured) | 2024: 21 GS, 8–7, 6.23 ERA, 117 IP, 83 K, 1.65 WHIP
Montgomery missed 2025 recovering from Tommy John surgery, but his 2021–23 stretch (30 or more starts each year, 3.48 ERA) shows what he can still offer. The 32-year-old’s postseason success — 2.63 ERA in 37.2 IP — fits Philadelphia’s mold of proven October performers. If Suárez departs, Montgomery represents a solid short-term lefty option who can slot into the middle of the rotation once healthy.
Rogers led all relievers in appearances and posted the lowest ERA among pitchers with at least 70 innings. His unique submarine delivery induces soft contact better than anyone — ranking in the 99th percentile in average exit velocity and 100th in walk rate and barrel percentage. The 35-year-old remains effective and could be an extremely successful setup man to closer Jhoan Duran. Rogers’ style contrasts perfectly with Philadelphia’s power-heavy bullpen mix.
Projected contract: 2 years, $35 million
Derek Law, RP
2025: Did not pitch (injured) | 2024: 75 G, 7–4, 2.60 ERA, 90 IP, 76 K, 1.18 WHIP
Law missed all of 2025 with a partial flexor tear but is expected back midseason. In 2024, he ranked in the 96th percentile for chase and barrel rate thanks to his slider-cutter combo. A healthy Law could stabilize Philadelphia’s middle innings, where depth faltered in the postseason. Given his track record and versatility, he’s a low-risk veteran option who could return solid value in the sixth and seventh innings.
Projected contract: 2 years, $11 million
FA begins, important dates to know
Free agency began Sunday, but teams have five days of exclusive negotiation with their own players before outside offers are permitted on Nov. 6. All option and opt-out decisions must be finalized within that window, with qualifying-offer announcements to follow (Nov. 18). The GM Meetings in Las Vegas (Nov. 10–13) typically mark the first movement, while the Winter Meetings in Orlando (Dec. 7–10) remain the offseason’s busiest stretch. Arbitration figures are exchanged in early January, and the international signing period opens on Jan. 15.
Two years removed from the Giants managerial position, Gabe Kapler is moving up the ranks with another organization.
The Miami Marlins promoted Kapler to the organization’s general manager position, the team announced Monday, along with other promotions in their baseball operations leadership.
We are excited to announce the following promotions within our Baseball Operations Leadership. pic.twitter.com/y7Qkw3dERG
Kapler, who was fired as the Giants manager in September 2023, joined the Marlins as an assistant general manager in January 2024. He becomes the sixth general manager in Marlins history.
The Marlins spent the last two seasons without a general manager after Kim Ng declined her 2024 option as the team decided to hire Peter Bendix as president of baseball operations to preside over her. Ng held the general manager title for the Marlins for four seasons from 2020-23.
Kapler, when initially hired by the Marlins, returned to a front office position for the first time since serving as the director of player development for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2015-17. He previously spent six seasons as the manager for the Philadelphia Phillies and Giants.
In his four seasons as San Francisco’s manager, Kapler finished with a 295-248 record, including a record-setting 107-win season in 2021. His lone playoff appearance in 2021 ended with an NLDS loss to the Dodgers.
Over the last two seasons since Kapler joined Miami’s front office, the Marlins have gone 141-183. The Marlins have not won a playoff game since they won the 2003 World Series.
‘It’s Deserving’: How The Blue Jays’ Playoff Success Has Shifted Toronto’s Focus Away From The Maple Leafs' October StruggleThe Maple Leafs' slow start has largely gone under the radar thanks to the Toronto Blue Jays capturing the hearts of Canadian sports fans.
NHL Moves Three Maple Leafs Games To Allow Blue Jays Fans To Watch World Series With Less ConflictsThe Maple Leafs continue to move start times as the red-hot Toronto Blue Jays compete in the World Series. 
