5 hitters who raised their free agency stock after stellar 2024 performances, featuring Teoscar Hernandez
It could be an incredibly exciting offseason as a number of superstars are expected to land sizable contracts in free agency. While players like Juan Soto, Corbin Burnes and even Japanese pitching phenom Roki Sasaki might steal the headlines, many talented players should draw plenty of interest from clubs across the MLB.
Thanks to several strong performances from various players in 2024, they could see their potential contracts take a jump in value in free agency. From surprise All-Stars to World Series champions, a handful of batters will be able to cash in on their strong 2024 campaigns in free agency.
Here's a look at five batters who could cash in during free agency thanks to strong 2024 seasons
#1 - Teoscar Hernandez
One of the hitters who should be able to land a massive contract this offseason is Teoscar Hernandez. Not only did the hard-hitting outfielder help the Los Angeles Dodgers win the World Series, but he also earned the second All-Star selection of his career and won the Home Run Derby. No matter where Hernandez eventually lands in free agency, he will secure the bag.
#2 - Jurickson Profar
One of the biggest surprises this season was Jurickson Profar. The veteran utilityman was once a top prospect but had failed to live up to his potential. Well, seemingly out of nowhere, Profar was elite for the San Diego Padres last season, posting a new career-high in home runs (24), RBIs (85) and batting average (.280).
The veteran was able to secure his first All-Star selection in 2024. He only made $1,000,000 last season, which suggests that he will cash in on the best season of his career.
#3 - Anthony Santander
Another slugging outfielder who is expected to seek a lucrative contract in free agency is Anthony Santander. The veteran enjoyed a massive season for the Baltimore Orioles, clobbering 44 home runs and 102 RBIs in 2024. He will undoubtedly draw interest across the league. Seeing Santander more than double his $11,700,000 salary from 2024 would be unsurprising.
#4 - Willy Adames
Although Willy Adames has already blossomed into a star for the Milwaukee Brewers over the past few seasons, the fact that he was still elite this year will help him land a massive contract. The talented infielder is one of the most coveted players in free agency and is expected to be paid as such.
#5 - Tyler O'Neill
Yet another outfielder who is expected to see his salary rise in 2025 is Tyler O'Neill. The slugger was strong for the Boston Red Sox this year, and while he has expressed interest in returning to the team, he will certainly look to cash in on his 2024 performances. At 29 years old, O'Neill is in his prime and will likely be looking to land potentially the biggest contract of his career.