What Tarik Skubal and other top 30-plus available players will command in MLB free agency

The article predicts the contracts of more than 30 available MLB free agents, ranked by projected annual salary, and argues that this is a shallow market dominated by one exceptional player. Tarik Skubal, a two-time Cy Young winner, is expected to command a deal worth several times more than any other free agent, potentially setting new records for a pitcher.

Skubal is 29 and has pitched at least 590 innings, including the postseason, since 2024, matching Cristopher Sánchez. The article forecasts a seven-year, $382.5 million contract, with the Mets and Dodgers seen as likely bidders; the Angels and Padres could also spend heavily, particularly if a possible salary cap changes the market. It also projects $90 million over three years, with an opt-out, for a Padres player who declined $58 million over two years.