The latest rankings from MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand highlight the top 25 free agents making waves in the headlines, but there’s also a compelling group of players who are quietly making their case for attention. Numerous significant players are on the verge of swapping uniforms, with the potential to significantly alter the dynamics of the league. Among these, three intriguing free agents stand out, each bringing unique talents and varying degrees of risk, generating considerable excitement and interest from contending teams eager to enhance their rosters.
Under the Radar MLB Free Agents
Walker Buehler, RHP
Despite injury concerns and inconsistent past performances, Walker Buehler remains an intriguing option. The right-hander increased his open-market value during the 2024 postseason. After a forgettable regular season (5.38 ERA over 75 1/3 innings), Buehler put up 10 scoreless innings and 13 strikeouts over his final three appearances in the postseason. He recorded the final three outs of the World Series and owns an impressive 3.04 ERA over 94 2/3 career postseason frames. His career 3.54 ERA and 10.3 K/9 suggest potential for dominance. A team willing to take on the risk could reap substantial rewards.
Joc Pederson, OF/DH
Joc Pederson‘s impressive combination of power and defensive versatility has established him as a valuable asset in the league. One of his standout qualities is his ability to excel against right-handed pitchers; throughout his career, Pederson has maintained a solid .844 OPS when facing them. This season, he has taken his performance to new heights, achieving an impressive OPS of .923 against right-handers, marking it as a career-best for him.
Additionally, Pederson has showcased his strength at the plate with a 151 OPS+ that reflects his refined hitting skills. While there are some limitations regarding his defensive range and concerns about his potential as a platoon player, his offensive capabilities make him a strong fit for any lineup. Consequently, teams in need of a dependable designated hitter or an outfielder should seriously consider adding Pederson to their roster, as his bat can significantly contribute to their offensive production.
Nick Pivetta, RHP
Nick Pivetta‘s growth and improved secondary pitches make him an underrated gem. After striking out 172 batters over 145 2/3 innings this year, Pivetta has a “surprisingly strong” market, according to MLB Network Insider JP Morosi. Pivetta consistently posts fantastic strikeout and walk numbers, but is prone to hard contact and the home run ball deals a hit to his overall results. The Boston Red Sox gave the right-hander a qualifying offer, but he might get a bigger contract somewhere else. If Pivetta accepts the offer, he will rejoin a rotation that includes Brayan Bello, Tanner Houck and potentially Kutter Crawford and Lucas Giolito.
Main Photo: © Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
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