The MLB's Next Big Contract Extensions: 15 Players to Watch
The race to secure the league's top talents is heating up! With the offseason winding down, teams are shifting their focus to their current rosters, aiming to lock in their key players for the long haul. But as we've seen in the past, this process is not without its surprises and controversies. Let's dive into the 15 players who could be at the center of the next notable contract extensions.
Zac Gallen and Lucas Giolito, two highly-regarded starting pitchers, remain unsigned as training camps open, leaving a sense of anticipation in the air. Meanwhile, several teams are already looking ahead, considering extensions for their current stars:
Drake Baldwin, C, Braves (Age 25): The reigning National League Rookie of the Year is under team control for five more years, but the Braves might want to secure him for even longer. They have a history of locking up young talent, and Baldwin's performance could make him a priority.
Hunter Brown, RHP, Astros (Age 27): Despite being represented by Scott Boras, who typically prefers free agency, the Astros might attempt to keep Brown beyond 2028. His impressive 2025 season and the team's previous extensions with Jose Altuve, also a Boras client, make this an intriguing possibility.
Jalen Chisholm, SS, Yankees (Age 26): The Yankees' approach to extensions is a fascinating topic. While they often let players reach free agency, they've made exceptions. Chisholm's future could be influenced by top prospect George Lombard Jr.'s progress, potentially leading to a position shift for Anthony Volpe.
Logan Gilbert and Bryan Woo, RHP, Mariners: The Mariners have already secured their everyday players but have yet to extend their young pitching talent. Both Gilbert and Woo had standout seasons in 2025, making them prime candidates for extensions.
MacKenzie Gore, LHP, Rangers (Age 25): The Rangers paid a high price to acquire Gore, and they'll want to ensure he sticks around beyond 2027. With Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi aging, Gore's presence could be crucial during the team's transition.
Riley Greene, LF, Tigers (Age 25): Greene's impressive power numbers in 2025 make him a strong candidate for an extension, especially if the Tigers are uncertain about Tarik Skubal's future.
Nico Hoerner, 2B, Cubs (Age 26): The Cubs recently extended Hoerner, but with Matt Shaw potentially taking over, they might consider another extension, especially if they value Shaw's versatility.
Shea Langeliers, C, Athletics (Age 25): The Athletics have been aggressive in locking up their core players, and Langeliers' strong performance over the past two seasons could make him the next target.
Wyatt Langford, LF, Rangers (Age 24): With financial flexibility, the Rangers could aim to keep Langford into his thirties. His solid production in his first two seasons makes him a valuable asset.
Jesús Luzardo, LHP, Phillies (Age 26): With questions surrounding the Phillies' rotation, Luzardo's future is uncertain. His recent performance warrants attention, but his impending free agency might complicate matters.
Jakob Marsee, CF, Marlins (Age 23): Marsee's impressive rookie debut could prompt the Marlins to offer an early-career deal, providing financial certainty for the club and security for the player.
Jeremy Peña, SS, Astros (Age 28): With two years left on his contract, Peña's future is uncertain. His impressive resume, including a Gold Glove and All-Star appearance, could make him a trade candidate if the Astros don't extend his contract.
Freddy Peralta, RHP, Mets (Age 27): The Mets acquired Peralta for two top prospects, indicating their commitment. However, the team's history with long-term pitcher contracts might make this situation intriguing.
Daulton Varsho, OF, Blue Jays (Age 26): Varsho's elite defense and strong hitting when healthy make him a valuable asset. With limited outfield options beyond 2026, the Blue Jays might consider an extension.
And here's where it gets controversial...
- Zac Gallen and Lucas Giolito, Starting Pitchers: With camps opening, the unsigned status of these two highly-rated pitchers is a talking point. Will they find their new homes soon, or will they wait for the right offer? Their decisions could shape the pitching landscape for years to come.
As the MLB season approaches, these 15 players' contract situations will undoubtedly generate buzz and debate. Who do you think will be the first to sign a new deal? Are there any players you believe should be on this list but aren't? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
