The 2026 free agent market officially opened on Monday, marking the start of a busy winter for baseball executives. This date falls five days after the Milwaukee Brewers clinched the first World Series title in franchise history. Eligible players can now negotiate with all 30 teams, with many expecting to secure long-term contracts that exceed the financial expectations of the average fan. While general managers and agents handle the final negotiations, CBS Sports experts have analyzed the top remaining names to predict their likely destinations.
Adrian Morejon is projected to land with the Chicago Cubs. Analyst Mike Axisa notes that Morejon has expressed interest in starting in 2027, a role several teams are willing to offer. Axisa believes the Cubs are a perfect fit because they require significant pitching help in both the rotation and the bullpen. Even if Morejon struggles as a starter, the team can absorb him in relief. Matt Snyder agrees, pointing out that Wrigley Field’s wind patterns favor left-handed pitchers. Snyder suggests that after potentially passing on Tarik Skubal, the Cubs will look to Morejon as a high-value consolation prize.
Trevor Rogers is expected to find a home with either the New York Mets or the Chicago Cubs. Mike Axisa favors the Mets, citing their data-driven approach and need for a starter. He describes Rogers as a pitcher who is close to becoming a frontline starter due to his above-average pitch repertoire and ability to limit weak contact. Dayn Perry predicts a move to the Cubs, arguing that the team needs rotation depth to compete with the champion Brewers in their division. Perry believes the Ricketts family will prioritize Rogers over more expensive options. Matt Snyder, however, points to the Atlanta Braves, who suffered from pitching injuries last season. Snyder suggests Rogers could provide immediate stability and serve as a future ace for the left-handed rotation.
Freddy Peralta is a key target for several teams, with the Chicago White Sox emerging as a strong candidate according to Mike Axisa. Axisa argues that the White Sox need reliable starting pitching and that Peralta offers both consistency and upside. While the Cubs have a managerial connection with Craig Counsell, Axisa believes the White Sox are a better strategic fit. Dayn Perry predicts an upset choice with the Tampa Bay Rays, noting that Peralta improved significantly under their management. Perry believes the Rays, with a new ballpark and favorable labor contract changes, are positioned to spend. Matt Snyder sees a potential fit with the Seattle Mariners, who may trade starting pitchers to create space for Peralta in their rotation.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. is likely to join the Toronto Blue Jays, according to Mike Axisa. The Blue Jays need power from the left side of the plate, and Chisholm’s defense and baserunning complement their needs. Axisa predicts he will play second base, though there is interest in him at third base or center field. Dayn Perry suggests the Detroit Tigers, noting their success with previous acquisitions from the Yankees. Perry anticipates a mid-term deal with opt-outs or a high annual average value one-year contract. Matt Snyder offers a different perspective, predicting the Arizona Diamondbacks will trade Ketel Marte to create an opening for Chisholm. Snyder expects a one-year deal where Chisholm aims to bounce back from a recent down season.
Randy Arozarena is expected to sign with the Texas Rangers or the Philadelphia Phillies. Mike Axisa favors the Rangers, who need a tough, power-hitting designated hitter to complement Brandon Nimmo and Corey Seager. Axisa notes that Arozarena thrives in big moments and fits the grit the Rangers seek. Dayn Perry predicts a move to the Phillies, who are trying to maximize their competitive window. Perry believes Philadelphia is willing to invest in corner outfield upgrades. Matt Snyder also selects the Phillies, citing team president Dave Dombrowski’s willingness to make short-term fixes. Snyder notes that despite last year’s struggles with Adolis Garcia, the organization remains committed to winning with its current core and needs additional outfield depth.
