Free agency opens as Brewers celebrate historic title
Top prospects include Adrian Morejon, Trevor Rogers, and Jazz Chisholm Jr., who will negotiate with all 30 teams starting Monday.
By Emmanuel Faure ·
Five days after the Milwaukee Brewers secured their first World Series championship, free agency officially began on Monday. Eligible players can now negotiate contracts with any of the 30 Major League Baseball teams. This development follows the conclusion of a season that ended with a franchise milestone for Milwaukee.
CBS Sports experts provided predictions for the next tier of free agents after previously covering Tarik Skubal. The analysis focused on specific landing spots for high-value pitchers and position players entering the market. The group examined team needs, financial flexibility, and player performance trends to make their assessments.
Mike Axisa, Dayn Perry, and Matt Snyder identified the Chicago Cubs as a strong fit for left-handed pitcher Adrian Morejon. The Cubs require pitching depth, and Wrigley Field conditions favor left-handers. Snyder noted that the ownership group spends money but remains cost-effective relative to their revenue. Axisa suggested that Morejon could convert to a starting role in 2027, while Perry highlighted his value as a young lockdown reliever with starter potential.
Trevor Rogers, the third-ranked free agent, drew interest from data-driven organizations. Axisa predicted the New York Mets would sign Rogers, citing their reliance on analytical models. Perry also favored the Cubs, arguing that the Ricketts family would prioritize cost-effective options over expensive targets like Skubal. Snyder looked to the Atlanta Braves, who need rotation help after pitching injuries. He noted that Rogers could provide depth and serve as a future top lefty behind Chris Sale.
Starting pitcher Freddy Peralta, ranked fifth, attracted multiple bids in the projections. Axisa selected the Chicago White Sox, who need reliable starting pitching to replace bullpen-heavy strategies. Perry predicted a surprise signing by the Tampa Bay Rays, who may spend more with a new stadium and upcoming labor agreement. Snyder pointed to the Seattle Mariners, who might trade Logan Gilbert or George Kirby to create a slot for Peralta.
Shortstop Jazz Chisholm Jr. was the sixth-ranked player on the list. Axisa projected a move to the Toronto Blue Jays, who need left-handed power and defensive versatility. Perry suggested a mid-term deal with the Detroit Tigers, who have successfully integrated other second basemen. Snyder predicted a trade of Ketel Marte by the Arizona Diamondbacks, which would open a spot for Chisholm to play second base on a one-year contract.
Right fielder Randy Arozarena, ranked ninth, was linked to the Texas Rangers and Philadelphia Phillies. Axisa argued that the Rangers need a gritty power bat to complement Brandon Nimmo and Corey Seager. Perry and Snyder both favored the Phillies, who are still attempting to maximize their competitive window. Snyder noted that team president Dave Dombrowski has previously added short-term fixes to the roster, though last year's addition of Adolis Garcia did not yield the desired results.
