MLB qualifying offer set at $23.15 million amid labor negotiations

Major League Baseball has established the qualifying offer figure for the 2026-27 offseason at $23.15 million, reflecting a 5.1% increase from last year. As teams prepare for potential free-agent moves, labor tensions loom between MLB and the MLB Players Association over proposed changes like a salary cap. Players have historically been reluctant to accept qualifying offers, but a record four players did so last year. With a management lockout anticipated when the current collective bargaining agreement expires in December, clubs will need to make qualifying offer decisions before the World Series concludes, challenging both team plans and free agents' decisions. Top contenders for qualifying offers include Randy Arozarena, David Bednar, and Seiya Suzuki.

• 3:11 PMYahoo Sports — MLB Qualifying Offer Figure Rises Amid Labor Strife