Massive contracts, record-breaking ones at that, have been handed out in the last two months, but that does not mean there's nothing more to be excited about for fans and franchises in the ongoing MLB Free Agency 2024 market.
The spring training is getting near, and it should not be a surprise if any of these players suddenly find themselves with a new team-or back with their old ones.
There are good pitchers, third basemen, designated hitters, first basemen, and outfielders who are still looking for a home.
Here are the top 5 best players in the free agency and the latest rumors linked to their names:
1. Cody Bellinger
The 28-year-old outfielder entered free agency in November last year and was linked to the Los Angeles Angels, San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, and Seattle Mariners. However, none of these teams are willing to pay him.
Read more: Matt Chapman Contract Demand and Likelihood of Signing With Yankees, Angels, or Other Clubs
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com said he might see himself back to his former team.
"Then there are the Cubs, who must still be viewed as favorites to bring Bellinger back to the North Side. Chicago hasn't done anything to this point to replace his bat in the lineup, but with few teams making an aggressive push for Bellinger, the Cubs front office has shown great restraint, not wanting to bid against itself to get Bellinger signed."
His contract demand is around $250 million, with terms still unclear.
2. Blake Snell
Left-handed pitcher Blake Snell last played for the San Diego Padres and is also seeking a huge contract.
Snell and the Mets were on the negotiation table already, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post in a February 1 article.
He said NY is willing to offer more than the $27 million per year that they gave to Carlos Rodon in 2022.
However, after evaluating how Rodon's first season turned out, the talks were stalled.
3. Clayton Kershaw
The Ten-time All-Star might end his career with the Dodgers.
General manager Brandon Gomes said he and his team's long-time pitcher remain in touch and "we'll progress."
The left-handed pitcher is having trouble finding a new home as he is rehabbing an injured throwing shoulder and is expected to miss the start of the season.
He expressed his intent to return for another season on his Instagram account.
4. Jordan Montgomery
Philadelphia Phillies are said to be on the lookout for Montgomery, who finished the 2023 season with a World Series title with the Texas Rangers.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today wrote on February 4 that the Phillies could be sleepers to sign the 31-year-old left-handed pitcher.
5. Matt Chapman
Third baseman Matt Chapman is arguably the best player in his position, and he remains without a team.
The San Francisco Giants, now with $9.25 million to spare in their payroll by moving starter Ross Stripling to the Oakland Athletics, might be his next team.
Chapman is rumored to be seeking a six-digit contract for six years. MLB Trade Rumors currently value him at $150 million up to 2030.
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