Think the free-agent market is all dried up? Think again. While the big names grab the headlines, there's a whole tier of players who could be absolute steals for savvy teams. Sure, the top 30 free agents are still largely unsigned, but that doesn't mean there isn't value to be found. In fact, some of the most intriguing options are flying under the radar. We asked five MLB.com experts to dig deep and identify players outside the top 30 who could outperform expectations. These are the signings that could pay off big time for the teams bold enough to take a chance.
Justin Verlander: The Ageless Wonder?
Justin Verlander's name is synonymous with greatness. Three Cy Young Awards, an MVP, and two World Series titles speak for themselves. But at 43, heading into his 21st season, it's easy to write him off. And this is the part most people miss: Verlander's 2024 season with the Astros was a disaster, and his first half with the Giants in '25 wasn't much better. But here's where it gets controversial: Verlander made some major adjustments last summer, adding a sweeper to his arsenal that became a legitimate weapon. Over his final 13 starts, he posted a 2.60 ERA and a 3.36 FIP, striking out 70 batters in 72 2/3 innings. That sweeper held opponents to a microscopic .053 batting average—the best in MLB. So, is Verlander still a Cy Young contender? Probably not. But does he still have something left in the tank? Absolutely. Is he worth the risk for a team looking for a veteran presence in their rotation? We think so.
Harrison Bader: More Than Just Speed and Defense?
Harrison Bader is known for his blazing speed and elite defense. But as he enters his age-32 season, you'd think those skills would start to decline. Think again. Bader's 2025 sprint speed ranked in the 85th percentile, making him the fastest player still available. His defense? Still top-notch. He's recorded at least a +6 Outs Above Average (OAA) in every full season since 2018, and his +76 OAA over the past eight seasons leads all outfielders. But here's the kicker: Bader hit really well last year, posting a career-best 122 wRC+. Even if he regresses to a league-average bat in 2026, his speed and defense make him a valuable asset. But here's where it gets controversial: Can Bader sustain his offensive breakout, or was it just a fluke? If he can, he's a steal. If not, he's still a solid pickup. What do you think?
Zack Littell: The Reliable Workhorse
Zack Littell isn't a flashy name, but he's been a reliable workhorse in an era where starting pitchers are throwing fewer innings. His renaissance began in 2023 with the Rays, and he hasn't looked back since. Last year, at age 29, he set career highs in starts (32) and innings pitched (186 2/3). Over the past two seasons, only 20 pitchers have started more games than Littell. He completed six innings in 20 of his starts last season—something only 13 other starters accomplished. And this is the part most people miss: Littell doesn't overpower hitters with velocity, but he pounds the zone and has the lowest walk rate among qualified starters. He's also adapted his pitch mix, ditching a fastball-heavy approach for a five-pitch repertoire that includes a plus splitter. Is he a headline-grabbing signing? No. But he's the kind of pitcher any team would be happy to pencil into the back of their rotation. Is reliability undervalued in today's game? We'd argue it's not.
Michael Kopech: The Forgotten Fireman
Michael Kopech isn't generating much buzz this offseason, thanks to an injury-riddled 2025 campaign. But when healthy, Kopech is one of the most dominant relievers in the game. Remember 2024? He was untouchable down the stretch, playing a key role in the Dodgers' World Series run. His fastball averaged 97.5 mph last season, and his cutter generated a ridiculous 53.3% swing-and-miss rate. But here's where it gets controversial: Can Kopech stay healthy and regain his command? If he can, he's a potential bargain. If not, he's a risky gamble. Is he worth the risk? For a team with bullpen needs, absolutely. What's your take?
Rhys Hoskins: The Comeback Kid
Rhys Hoskins has been plagued by injuries in recent years, most notably a torn ACL that cost him the entire 2023 season. But before that, he was a consistent power hitter with an .845 OPS and 148 home runs over six seasons with the Phillies. Since returning with the Brewers in 2024, he hasn't quite reached those heights, but he's still been productive. Last season, despite missing time with a thumb injury, he posted a .768 OPS with 12 homers in 82 games. And this is the part most people miss: Hoskins' hard-hit rate (46.4%) and sweet spot rate (39.7%) were both career bests last year, and his walk rate (11.6%) was his highest since 2019. If he can stay healthy for a full season, he could be a prime candidate to exceed expectations. But here's where it gets controversial: Can Hoskins stay on the field? If he can, he's a potential impact bat. If not, he's a question mark. Is he worth the gamble? For a team needing power, we think so. What do you think?
