Without question, Juan Soto heads the MLB free agent class for 2025. But several MLBbros are looking for new contracts and homes this coming winter, too. From seasoned veterans like Josh Bell to players trying to salvage careers like Tony Kemp and Tim Anderson, former greats such as Andrew McCutchen and others with significant upside, this winter’s free-agent pool features a talented group of MLBbros who are poised to make an impact wherever they land.
Here’s a look at the MLBbros set to hit the free-agent market, along with their 2024 stats:
1. Josh Bell (1B/DH)
After a year spent with the Miami Marlins and Arizona Diamondbacks, Bell is one of the most intriguing power hitters available this offseason. The 32-year-old switch-hitter has established himself as a consistent offensive force, capable of driving in runs and hitting for both average and power.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .249
Home Runs: 19
RBIs: 71
OPS.725
Bell’s combination of power and on-base ability makes him an attractive option for teams in need of a bat at first base or designated hitter.
2. Jack Flaherty (SP)
World Series Champion Black Jack Flaherty had a season for the books playing a vital role for the Los Angeles Dodgers. After dominating as a starter for the Detroit Tigers, Flaherty was acquired at the trade deadline and delivered. He was chosen to start Game 1 and he shut out the Yankees for five innings, before allowing a two-run home run to Giancarlo Stanton.
2024 Stats:
W-L Record: 13-7
ERA: 3.17
Strikeouts: 197
WHIP: 1.07
Flaherty’s stuff is undeniable, his ability to stay healthy and consistently pitch at a high level will be a key factor in his free-agent destination.
3. Tim Anderson (SS)
Once regarded as one of the top shortstops in baseball, Tim Anderson’s 2024 season saw some struggles offensively, but he remains a potentially dynamic presence at short if he can bring it all together again on and off the field. Known for his bat speed, aggressive baserunning, and energy, Anderson is a free agent who could revitalize his career in the right situation.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .214
Home Runs: 0
RBIs: 9
OPS: .463
While his power numbers dipped in 2024, Anderson’s ability to put the ball in play and his track record as a consistent hitter for average will draw attention from teams in need of a shortstop with speed and experience at the crucial position.
4. Michael A. Taylor (OF)
Known for his elite defensive ability, Michael A. Taylor remains one of the best center fielders in the game. A former Gold Glove winner with a respectable bat, Taylor has value as a fourth outfielder or starting center fielder on a contending team.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .193
Home Runs: 5
RBIs: 21
OPS: .543
5. Aaron Hicks (OF)
After an up-and-down tenure with the Los Angeles Angels, Aaron Hicks will be looking for a fresh start in 2025. A switch-hitter with a strong defensive profile, Hicks showed flashes of brilliance in 2024 but struggled with consistency.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .140
Home Runs: 1
RBIs: 5
OPS: .415
While Hicks’ overall numbers may not stand out, his ability to play all three outfield positions and provide power from both sides of the plate gives him a chance to bounce back in the right situation.
6. Andrew McCutchen (DH)
One of the most beloved players in baseball, Andrew McCutchen enters free agency with a storied career behind him. Though his prime years are in the past, McCutchen can still provide valuable leadership, plate discipline, and the occasional clutch hit.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .232
Home Runs: 20
RBIs: 59
OPS: .739
McCutchen may no longer be a superstar, but his veteran presence and ability to get on base will make him a sought-after asset in the right role.
7. Tony Kemp (2B/LF)
Known for his energy and gritty play, Tony Kemp is a versatile utility player who can contribute in a variety of ways. Kemp’s ability to play multiple infield and outfield positions makes him a valuable bench piece, and his speed and contact skills can provide a spark to a team looking for a depth piece.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .000
Home Runs: 0
RBIs: 0
8. Jason Heyward (OF)
After a resurgent 2024 season, Jason Heyward enters free agency ready to bounce back from a shaky season. Known for his glove and leadership, Heyward showed he still has something left in the tank.
2024 Stats:
Batting Average: .211
Home Runs: 10
RBIs: 37
OPS: .700
Heyward’s combination of defense, leadership, and timely hitting will make him a valuable asset to teams looking to add a veteran presence to their outfield.
9. Joe Ross (RP)
Joe Ross is an underrated arm who has battled injuries in the past but remains a reliable bullpen option for any contender. The 31-year-old right-hander could be a solid addition to a bullpen looking for depth and flexibility.
2024 Stats:
W-L Record: 3-6
ERA: 3.77
Strikeouts: 66
WHIP: 1.36
As the MLB free agent market heats up, these MLBbros will be looking for new homes where they can continue to make their mark on the game. Whether they are veterans with championship aspirations or young talents ready to break through, these players all have something to offer and will be closely watched by teams.
The 2024 season may have been a mixed bag for many of them, but each of these MLBbros brings something unique to the table in the quest for new contracts and future success.
The Milwaukee Brewers pitcher did a lot of community investing while with the Washington Nationals, including working with Steelo Sports to get baseball equipment to underserved communities. He’s looking forward to immersing himself in the Brewers community. Rachel Hill with her Two Cents on a melanated mound marauder.
In life there are some challenges that all people face no matter the race, creed or color…adversity, perseverance and maybe the toughest of all…patience. Nothing combines all of these attributes better than Milwaukee Brewers’ right hander Joe Ross, who won his first game this week as a starter since 2021…1,015 days if anyone was counting.
The Brewers signed Joe Ross in the offseason giving our MLBbro a chance to show that he had put two Tommy John surgeries behind him. A deal that has paid off dividends for both parties.
Our MLBbro shared his outlook on his journey and the Brewers early start on MLB Network…
Joe Ross is playing in his first MLB action since the 2021 season!
Soon after, Ross became one of the feel good stories of the MLB season pitching into the 7th inning in Tuesday’s 9-5 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. His pitching evolution was on display pitching only 87 times featuring a new go to pitch that the Reds hitters had issues catching up to.
Most of these videos highlight Ross’ new number one pitch… the slider.
Our MLBbro pitched multiple strikes using the slider five strikeouts). Something that was evident in the 2015-17 seasons with the Washington Nationals before the injuries set in setting him back. Overall, Ross built momentum off of his first 73 pitch start (no decision) with a solid performance with his control increasing strikeouts and cutting down on his walks. Our MLBbro’s sinker will enable him to keep the hitters guessing.
Joe Ross tonight: 6.1 IP 5 H 1 BB 7 K 87 pitches 94.2 MPH sinker average 10 whiffs (all on the slider)
Joe Ross has the support of his catcher, William Contreras, setting our MLBbro up to succeed. Something Milwaukee Brewers manager, Pat Murphy pointed out after the game on mlb.com.
“That’s the story of the game, Joe Ross,” Murphy said. “That guy was the Joe Ross of old. And give catcher William Contreras a ton of credit, because he dissected what Joe was tonight and just went with it. Because Joe early was behind in the count on everybody and getting away with some things and William kind of dissected it and put it together.
A consistent run from our MLBbro could be critical to Milwaukee’s season. The pitching staff has suffered some injuries with Brandon Woodruff and Wade Miley. Coupled with offseason trades that sent Corbin Burnes (Baltimore Orioles) and Adrian Houser (New York Mets) elsewhere, not only was Ross afforded an opportunity to prove himself, he was included in the Opening Day rotation as the fifth starter.
MLBbro.com has been monitoring Joe Ross’ transition out of Washington into a Brewers uniform. MLBbro reporter Mark Gray analyzed what our MLBbro brings to the mound in our “The Push Back” segment…
Joe Ross and the Brewers, particularly manager Pat Murphy who served as a mentor to our MLBbro in the past are trying to pave the way back to the first round Draft pick levels that the San Diego Padres saw in 2011. With the Nationals, he made a World Series start in 2019. But up until this season, Ross had only 20 Major League appearances.
When Ross pitched with San Francisco’s Minor League system in 2023, his fastball was still active with averages of 90+ mph which gives him enough tools to work with on the mound.
Luckily for this MLBbro, circumstances may give him plenty of time and chances to get a big extension.
Joe Ross is back in business with the Milwaukee Brewers after finalizing a one-year deal on Tuesday following an exhaustive physical exam to test the health of his twice-surgically repaired right elbow.
Ross, 30, underwent Tommy John surgery in 2017 and again in June 2022 before returning to pitch in the San Francisco farm system late last season.
In between roadblocks he’s been a versatile arm with the ability to perform as a starter or middle reliever. He really stood out in 2021 at 28-years-old as the Nationals braced for the departure of arm to replace legend Max Scherzer, who was on his way out of the door.
The one-year, “Show Me” deal with no options will earn Ross $1.75 million.
The Brew Crew reportedly views Ross as a viable candidate to join the starting rotation. In any event, he’s an innings eater and every contending team needs such a role player.
A former first-round pick of the Padres in 2011, Ross was traded to the Nationals in December 2014 and posted a 4.26 ERA and a 1.33 WHIP in 98 games (76 starts) over parts of six seasons, including 64 innings in 2019 when Washington was on its way to winning the World Series.
He elected not to play during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, then returned in ‘21 and was 5-9 with a 4.17 ERA in 20 games (19 starts), last appearing on Aug. 10 of that season in relief at the Mets.
Ross has been a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde as far as performance is concerned. He’s had flashes of brilliance and he’s never been able to get in a consistent groove for one reason or another. Reaching your maximum performance on the field is hard enough.
Dealing with two major arm surgeries, rehab AND trying to come back and solidify a place in MLB is the ultimate challenge for an athlete.
After Ross’ second elbow reconstruction he signed a Minor League deal with the San Francisco Giants for 2023 and worked through the system, ending the season in Triple-A Sacramento. There’s another melanated mound marauder in the building and he’s looking to stay healthy and keep throwing heat.
Washington Nationals ace Joe Ross has been officially placed on the 10-day IL after an MRI revealed a partial tear in his left arm and is expected to be lost for the rest of this season.
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