Big free-agent deals are supposed to be game-changers, but what happens when the shiny new signings stumble right out of the gate? It's a common story: a player gets a hefty contract, expectations soar, and then... the first season doesn't quite live up to the hype. But don't count these players out just yet! While their initial performance might have been disappointing, there's still plenty of time to turn things around. Let's dive into nine free-agent signings from the 2024-25 cycle who are looking to rewrite their narratives in the upcoming 2026 season.
1. Jack Flaherty, SP, Tigers: Flaherty had a solid rebound season in 2024 with the Tigers and Dodgers, but his free agency didn't go as planned, possibly due to concerns about his past performance and durability. He ended up back in Detroit on a two-year deal with an opt-out after 2025. After a less impressive season, he chose to stay with the Tigers, exercising his $20 million player option for 2026. With or without Tarik Skubal, the Tigers will need Flaherty to step up as a key starter.
2. Jeff Hoffman, RP, Blue Jays: Hoffman's road to redemption might be the toughest on this list. Despite an uneven regular season as Toronto's closer, he was dominant in October. But a single pitch in Game 7 of the World Series, a game-tying homer, erased it all. The Blue Jays are sticking with him, but the memory of that moment won't fade quickly.
3. Sean Manaea, SP, Mets: Manaea initially signed with the Mets in January 2024, with an opt-out clause. After a career year, he opted out and then returned to the Mets on a much larger contract. His second year with New York wasn't as successful, as injuries and a high ERA plagued him. His struggles contributed to the team's playoff hopes fading. However, his contract gives him a good chance to earn a spot in 2026.
4. Tyler O'Neill, OF, Orioles: O'Neill's career has been marked by injuries and inconsistency. After a strong 2024 season with the Red Sox, he signed a three-year deal with the Orioles. However, injuries limited him to just 54 games in 2025, and his performance was below expectations.
5. Joc Pederson, DH, Rangers: The Rangers signed Pederson to fill a hole in their designated hitter position. However, his performance didn't improve the team's ranking. Pederson himself had a low OPS, including a franchise-record slump. He exercised his player option for 2026 and should get a chance to rebound.
6. Anthony Santander, OF, Blue Jays: Santander had a great season with the Orioles in 2024, earning him a big contract with the Blue Jays. But his first year with the team was disappointing, with a slow start and a shoulder injury. He also suffered a back injury during the ALCS. The Blue Jays will be counting on him to bounce back in 2026.
7. Tanner Scott, RP, Dodgers: The fact that the Dodgers spent big money on a closer just a year after signing Scott says a lot about his first season. Scott allowed several home runs and had a high ERA. However, he still has time to turn things around and become a key player for the Dodgers.
8. Luis Severino, SP, Athletics: Severino's contract with the Athletics was the richest in franchise history at the time. However, his first year was a letdown, and he drew more attention for his criticism of the team's temporary home park than for his performance on the mound. The Athletics will need more from him in 2026.
9. Christian Walker, 1B, Astros: After cutting ties with José Abreu, the Astros signed Walker to address their first base position. While his struggles weren't as severe as Abreu's, Walker's performance regressed. However, he showed signs of improvement late in the season, giving the Astros hope for a comeback.
So, what do you think? Are these players likely to bounce back, or will their big contracts become a burden? Which player do you think has the best chance to turn things around in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
