2026 MLB Free Agent Rankings: Top 50 Available Players
Baseball America's 2026 MLB Free Agent Rankings feature a detailed analysis of the top players divided into four tiers. The rankings use a data-driven approach combining recent signing data, underlying metrics, and consensus value estimates. Win values represent an aggregate from FanGraphs, Baseball Prospectus, and Baseball Reference, while projected contracts assume a $10 million per WAR valuation.
Key Updates
- Trevor Story, Shane Bieber, and Jack Flaherty were removed after opting into their contracts on Tuesday, Nov.
Top Players in the Class
Kyle Tucker stands out as the class's top talent. His youth, proven track record, potential upside, and pedigree make him exceptional. Should a bidding war occur, his actual earnings could far exceed the current contract projection.
Bo Bichette could be considered Tier 1 but faces challenges due to declining bat speed, sprint speed, and defensive questions, casting uncertainty on his future performance.
Framber Valdez is the oldest player in this tier but maintains a strong and reliable track record. He is regarded as the premier starting pitcher in the class.
"Kyle Tucker is the clear jewel of this class. He has an unmatched combination of youth, track record, upside and pedigree. If a bidding war erupts, he may out-earn this projected contract by a wide margin."
"Bo Bichette has a Tier 1 argument, but his declining bat speed and sprint speed, combined with questionable defense, clouds his future projection."
"While Framber Valdez is the oldest player in this tier, his performance track record and reliability are rock solid. He’s the premier starter in the class."
Further position-by-position free agent rankings will be published soon.
Author’s summary: The 2026 MLB free agent class is highlighted by Kyle Tucker's exceptional potential, Bo Bichette's mixed outlook, and Framber Valdez's consistent dependability as a top starting pitcher.