The countdown to spring training is on, with pitchers and catchers set to report in just a matter of weeks. This time of year is crucial, especially for the remaining MLB free agents, as they navigate the challenges of finding a rhythm when joining a team late in the spring. The consequences of this timing can be severe, as evidenced by Blake Snell's infamous bumpy start with the San Francisco Giants in 2024.
But the issue goes beyond just timing. The hesitancy of teams to sign these top free agents is costing them more than just money. It's impacting their performance on the field and their overall careers. Let's delve into the stories of some of these talented players and uncover the fatal flaws that are holding them back.
RHP Lucas Giolito: The Health Concern
Giolito's absence from the 2024 season due to elbow surgery raises legitimate concerns. While his return in 2025 saw him post respectable numbers (3.41 ERA, 1.26 WHIP), a deeper analysis reveals a worrying trend. His expected ERA (5.06) suggests he was lucky to avoid more runs, and his strikeout percentage has dropped significantly from his All-Star season in 2019 (32.3%) to a mere 19.7% last season.
Furthermore, Giolito's Stuff+ metrics, which evaluate the physical attributes of his pitches, have been on a downward trajectory. His fastball, once in the 94-95 MPH range, now sits around 90 MPH. This decline, coupled with his age (31) and recent major surgery, makes durability a real concern. Teams are left wondering if Giolito can maintain his status as a reliable third starter or if he'll become more of a situational fifth starter.
DH Marcell Ozuna: The Glove Factor
Despite a productive 2025 season (.232 batting average, 21 home runs, 68 RBI), Ozuna's age (35) and his status as a designated hitter limit his appeal. His fluctuating role with the Atlanta Braves and his history of off-field issues further complicate matters. While his walk rate was impressive (98th percentile), his overall decline makes it challenging for teams to justify dedicating their DH spot to him.
RHP Zac Gallen: The Fastball Decline
Gallen's impressive Cy Young finishes in 2022 and 2023 might not be enough to secure him a long-term deal. His age (30) and recent market trends suggest a short-term contract with opt-outs is more likely. Gallen's 2025 season was a mixed bag, and his fastball, once a premium pitch, has lost its edge. Metrics like Stuff+ and Pitching Run Value confirm this decline.
Gallen's fastball, his go-to pitch, no longer has the same zip, and his command has suffered as a result. This makes it harder for him to set up his breaking and off-speed pitches effectively. While he remains durable, with a safe bet for 30 starts a year, the risk of injury is always present.
3B Eugenio Suárez: The Strikeout Problem
Suárez's 2025 season was a tale of two halves. Before the deadline, he was on fire with 36 home runs and an OPS of .897. But after joining the Seattle Mariners, his production dropped significantly, with just 13 home runs and an OPS of .682. Suárez's high strikeout rate (26.8% with the D'Backs, 35.9% with Seattle) is a major concern.
At 34 years old, Suárez's age and volatility make him a risky investment. While he can be a game-changer with his power, his inconsistent production and strikeout issues make it challenging for teams to offer him a high salary or a long-term deal.
LHP Framber Valdez: The Clubhouse Question
Valdez's reliability and postseason experience with the Houston Astros make him an attractive option. However, his age (32) and reliance on pitching to contact raise concerns about his long-term durability. But perhaps the most significant issue is his fit within a clubhouse.
Valdez's personality came under scrutiny in September when he appeared to intentionally cross up his catcher, leading to a grand slam. His lack of a sincere apology in the postgame media scrum has left teams questioning his ability to integrate into a new locker room. With the pitching market being as hot as it is, Valdez's clock is ticking, and he may have to wait a little longer to secure the contract he desires.
