MLB Free Agent & Trade Rumors: Updates on Valdez, Gallen & More

The MLB offseason continues to unfold, with several key players still seeking new homes as spring training approaches. While some big names have already found their next teams – including Kyle Tucker to the Dodgers and Bo Bichette to the Mets – a significant number of impactful free agents remain on the market. As of February 4, 2026, teams are still actively pursuing upgrades, particularly in starting pitching.

Blue Jays Pursue Valdez, Already Bolstered Rotation

The Toronto Blue Jays have demonstrated continued interest in left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez, according to MLB Trade Rumors. This comes after the Blue Jays have already made significant additions to their rotation, signing right-hander Dylan Cease and KBO MVP Cody Ponce. Despite already boasting a rotation that includes Cease, Kevin Gausman, Shane Bieber, Ponce, Trey Yesavage and José Berríos, the Blue Jays appear willing to further strengthen their pitching staff with Valdez, a two-time All-Star.

Valdez has maintained a career ERA of 3.36 over eight seasons with the Houston Astros, receiving American League Cy Young votes in four different seasons, with a fifth-place finish in 2022. His availability presents a compelling opportunity for the Blue Jays to solidify their position as contenders.

Gallen Open to Return to Arizona

Zac Gallen, another prominent starting pitcher still available, has expressed his desire to remain with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Gallen indicated to Blake Niemann of FOX 10 in Phoenix that returning to Arizona “would be awesome,” and that he considers the Phoenix area his “home base.” He also noted that fans have expressed their desire for his return.

Gallen was previously ranked as the No. 20 free agent by Mark Feinsand. He began his career with the Miami Marlins before being traded to the Diamondbacks for Jazz Chisholm Jr. At the trade deadline and has spent the last six full seasons in Arizona.

Red Sox Exploring Trade Options

The Boston Red Sox have been active in exploring trade possibilities, recently trading right-handed pitcher Hicks. This move created financial flexibility and opened up roster spots, as Hicks was owed $25 million through 2027. According to The Athletic, the Red Sox were receiving interest from other teams regarding Hicks, as well as starters Patrick Sandoval and Brayan Bello.

Boston possesses young left-handers Payton Tolle and Connelly Early who could fill any rotation vacancy. The Red Sox also have a surplus of outfielders and are considering options for outfielder/DH Masataka Yoshida. They have reportedly “checked in” with the Chicago Cubs regarding infielders Matt Shaw and Nico Hoerner, with Hoerner being a two-time Gold Glove winner at second base.

Yankees Seek Right-Handed Outfield Bat, Goldschmidt a Possibility

Despite re-signing Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger, the New York Yankees are still seeking a right-handed bat for their outfield. The Yankees are considering several options, including Randal Grichuk and Austin Slater. They also made a Major League offer to Slater earlier in the offseason.

Tommy Pham and Starling Marte remain available options. A potential reunion with Paul Goldschmidt has also been discussed, with Jack Curry of the YES Network reporting the Yankees have interest. Goldschmidt could potentially platoon with Ben Rice at first base.

Starting Pitching Market Remains Active

With many position players and relievers signed, the starting pitching market remains a focal point as spring training nears. Framber Valdez, Zac Gallen, Chris Bassitt, and Lucas Giolito are among the top pitchers still available. Valdez and Gallen are attached to draft compensation after declining qualifying offers.

The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly one of the most active teams in pursuit of starting pitching, with interest in Valdez, Gallen, and Giolito. The Atlanta Braves and Detroit Tigers are also considering Giolito and Bassitt. Gallen could potentially return to the Diamondbacks, avoiding the loss of a draft pick for Arizona.

Giants’ Pursuit of Abrams Thwarted

The San Francisco Giants made a bid to acquire shortstop CJ Abrams from the Washington Nationals but were turned down. The Giants were reportedly willing to include prospect Josuar Gonzalez, MLB Pipeline’s No. 44 overall prospect, but the Nationals sought a larger return. Abrams, an All-Star in 2024, is under club control through 2028.

Scherzer Considering a Mid-Season Return

Veteran right-hander Max Scherzer is considering a strategy similar to Roger Clemens in 2007, potentially signing mid-season when injuries create opportunities. Scherzer, 41, finished with a 5.19 ERA last season but showed improvement in his final 13 starts. He is “content to wait until after Opening Day for an opening to emerge with one of his preferred clubs.”

Phillies Bring Back Realmuto

The Philadelphia Phillies quickly pivoted after missing out on Bo Bichette, agreeing to a three-year, $45 million contract with a possible $5 million more in incentives per season with catcher J.T. Realmuto. The Phillies could still target rotation depth and a right-handed bat to platoon in left field.

Mets Add Peralta and Robert

The New York Mets have been active in trades, acquiring right-hander José Peralta and center fielder Luis Robert. Peralta is expected to bolster the Mets’ starting rotation, while Robert adds to their outfield depth. The Mets recently introduced Bo Bichette as their new third baseman.