The 2026-27 MLB offseason is barely underway, but trade rumors and free-agent speculation are already heating up for several contenders. The New York Yankees are reportedly considering a run at left-hander Tarik Skubal, widely regarded as the top free-agent pitcher available, and then dealing from their rotation depth to address positional needs. New York's current rotation includes Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Max Fried, and several young arms such as Will Warren, who could be a valuable trade chip with four years of team control remaining.
The New York Mets, meanwhile, are focused on bolstering their starting pitching and are described as "active everywhere" in the market. President of baseball operations David Stearns is said to be reluctant to hand out long-term contracts to pitchers, which could complicate a pursuit of Skubal. The Mets' rotation currently locks in only Nolan McLean and Christian Scott for 2027, with question marks surrounding Kodai Senga's role and the health of Tylor Megill.
In Texas, the Rangers are pivoting to center field after Gold Glove finalist Evan Carter underwent right hip surgery and will miss the start of the 2027 season. President of baseball operations Chris Young acknowledged the need for a short-term backfill, with free-agent options such as Trent Grisham, Luis Robert Jr., and Daulton Varsho available, though each carries injury or age-related risk. Trade candidates like Jarren Duran and Steven Kwan could also be explored, though Kwan would command a high price.
