Free-Agent Pitchers Still on the Market
Although a significant name has been signed, several top-tier pitchers remain available as teams prepare for next week’s Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida.
Highlighting Key Free-Agent Starters
This article examines five of the most notable starting pitchers still on the free-agent market and speculates on their potential futures.
Suárez’s Postseason Performance
While Suárez may lack the lengthy track record of some fellow free agents, his postseason record stands out as the most impressive among them.
Suárez’s Inning Milestones
The 30-year-old recorded a career-high of 157 1/3 innings in 2025, a milestone he has surpassed only three times in his career. He has been a playoff participant with the Phillies for the last four seasons, boasting a 4-1 record and a remarkable 1.48 ERA across 11 appearances, eight of which were starts.
Future Prospects for Suárez
Several teams, including the Astros, Cubs, and Orioles, are reportedly interested in signing Suárez, while the Mets and Tigers are also in the mix. Although Philadelphia remains open to a reunion, ongoing priorities and the health of Zack Wheeler suggest Suárez may sign elsewhere.
Imai’s Impressive Stats
Imai, 27, achieved a 1.92 ERA with 178 strikeouts over 163 2/3 innings for the Lions in 2025. Unlike his fellow countryman Roki Sasaki, Imai is free from international bonus pool restrictions, as he is over 25 and has played a minimum of six professional seasons abroad.
Interest in Imai
Imai has expressed a preference to defeat the Dodgers rather than join fellow Japanese stars in the league. The Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, Phillies, and Cubs are reportedly the most interested, with the potential for the Orioles to join the fray if they target big-name players.
