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Tucker to Dodgers? A reunion in Philly and Boston? Best fits for top MLB free agents

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, November 3rd 2025 at 7:55 GMT by ESPN
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MLB Off‑Season 2025‑26: Where the Stars Fit Best – A Quick Guide

The 2025‑26 free‑agency window has already begun to reveal the hottest destinations for the league’s most coveted talent. ESPN’s recent deep‑dive breaks down the best teams that could land top names like Mike Schwarber, Paul Bregman, Cody Bellinger, Kyle Tucker, and Valdez, the rising right‑hander who has been on the radar of several clubs. Below is a concise yet comprehensive look at each player’s fit, the teams that need their skill sets, and what the front‑office conversations might look like.

Mike Schwarber – Power and Contact in the Right Hand

Schwarber finished 2024 with a 0.269 OPS and 28 home runs, striking for a .284 average in 400 at‑bats. He also drew 92 walks, showing a keen eye that helps keep the lineup moving. His ability to blend power and plate discipline makes him a prime candidate for clubs needing a middle‑of‑lineup anchor.

Trade Talk: Schwarber’s contract would command a large free‑agency fee, making a trade for a top prospect a likely scenario. Teams like the Mets or Nationals might look to package prospects such as rookie pitchers or a highly ranked minor‑league hitter to secure his services.

Paul Bregman – Power‑Running Cornerback for the Cubs

Bregman’s 2024 season saw him hit .279 with 21 home runs and 73 RBIs in 155 games. He also stole 20 bases, showing his speed on the base paths. The Chicago Cubs, looking to solidify their lineup after a deep playoff run, could be a natural fit.

Trade Considerations: Bregman is a 4‑year contract through 2028, so teams seeking a trade would likely target prospects such as a high‑ranked pitching prospect or a rising slugger in the minors. The Cubs might also pursue a package to get Bregman while still retaining some of their current young assets.

Cody Bellinger – Veteran Power for the Phillies

Bellinger has been in a slump since his 2023 season with a 0.241 OPS, but his career numbers (5‑home run, .271 average, 14 HR, 54 RBIs) show that he still has plenty of power left. A team that could benefit from a veteran presence is the Philadelphia Phillies, who need a strong 4‑5 slot bat.

Trade Possibilities: Bellinger’s contract is a 3‑year deal, which means he could be moved mid‑season if he doesn’t perform. Teams like the Phillies might look to trade Bellinger to get prospects or other players that help to rebuild a strong core.

Kyle Tucker – Power Baser for the Cubs

Tucker has posted an 0.281 OPS in 2024, hitting 24 home runs and 90 RBIs in 400 at‑bats. He has a high on‑base percentage (0.361) and a 5‑base steal, showing that he is not a pure power hitter but a solid all‑around player. The Chicago Cubs are in a position to add a power hitter like Tucker to their lineup.

Trade Negotiations: Tucker’s contract is a 5‑year deal through 2028, so any team interested in acquiring him would need to offer a package of prospects and/or a veteran. The Cubs might be able to trade Tucker for a top prospect to rebuild.

Valdez – Rising Right‑Hander on the Radar

Valdez is a young right‑handed pitcher who has made a big impact in the majors, posting a 3.20 ERA and 200 strikeouts over 150 innings in his rookie season. He is currently on a team with a solid starting rotation, but his talent is highly sought after by many clubs that are building a young, high‑scoring offense.

Contract Status: Valdez is in the early years of his career, with a 5‑year deal in place that includes a high option for 2028. This makes him a very attractive prospect for teams looking for a reliable starting pitcher who can contribute to a high‑scoring lineup.

The Bigger Picture

The 2025‑26 offseason has many moving parts: teams need to address offensive gaps, balance their rosters with both veteran leadership and younger talent, and navigate contractual complexities. While Schwarber, Bregman, Bellinger, Tucker, and Valdez each have their unique value proposition, the teams that will benefit most are those that can integrate them into a cohesive, well‑balanced lineup.

Key takeaways for front‑offices:

1. Fit Over Cost – Teams should prioritize how a player fits into their offensive or pitching philosophy, rather than just the financial aspect.
2. Prospect Packages – Since the players in question have significant contracts, many teams are looking for premium prospects or other key players to facilitate trades.
3. Strategic Timing – Free‑agency windows are short, and negotiations can be fast‑paced; teams that can act decisively will have an advantage.

As the market heats up, keep an eye on the front‑office moves and how they might reshape the MLB landscape. The teams that successfully land these players may find themselves in playoff contention, while those that miss out may need to focus on longer‑term development. The upcoming season will be exciting, and the narrative is already shaping up to be a story of veteran presence, youthful power, and strategic roster building.