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Tarik Skubal leads top-heavy MLB free agent market before lockout

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 5, 2026, 3:25 AM

Last updated Nov 5, 2026

Tarik Skubal leads top-heavy MLB free agent market before lockout

Summary

MLB free agency is accelerating as teams aim to finalize deals before a potential lockout on December 1. Tarik Skubal, a standout pitcher and two-time AL Cy Young winner, is the market's focal point, with estimates for his contract ranging from $325 million to $425 million. Other notable free agents include Trevor Rogers, Freddy Peralta, and Seiya Suzuki, who have also received qualifying offers. The urgency is driven by concerns over new CBA negotiations, prompting teams to move swiftly for needed pitching and offensive support. Once Skubal signs, a rush for secondary pitchers is anticipated.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•Major league teams have until Dec. 1 to finalize deals before a lockout.
•Tarik Skubal could land record contract projections between $325–425 million.
•Trevor Rogers and Freddy Peralta are next top pitchers available.
•Seiya Suzuki, Randy Arozarena, Jazz Chisholm Jr. received qualifying offers.
•Aggressive pre-lockout spending expected from teams seeking talent.

Latest Updates

3:25 AMYahoo Sports — MLB Free Agent Market Is Top-Heavy, Hurried, and Moving

What they're saying

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The market is not deep enough for a broad spending boom. Outside of Tarik Skubal, few players are projected for nine-figure guarantees.
— Yahoo Sports

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