Upcoming MLB Trade Deadline: Key Targets and Trends to Watch

Discover Potential Stars This Winter: Keep an Eye on Non-Tendered Pitchers

Update The Offseason Buzz: Non-Tender Candidates to WatchAs winter deepens in Major League Baseball, the non-tender deadline raises the stakes for teams seeking to make strategic roster changes. Every year, several players under team control are handed an early chance at free agency, either due to escalating arbitration costs or simply as a means to free roster spots for prospects. This offseason, several intriguing pitchers have found themselves in this situation, offering potential value to teams looking to bolster their bullpens or starting rotations.The Non-Tender Landscape: What Does It Mean?The non-tender process allows teams to opt out of keeping a player, essentially preventing them from negotiating a new contract. Historically, this has led to some high-profile players becoming free agents. Recently, notable names such as Kyle Schwarber and Brandon Woodruff emerged from non-tender situations only to thrive later in their careers. While not all non-tender athletes reach stardom, many find new homes and turn into valuable contributors for other teams.Spotlight on Non-Tendered PitchersAmong the intriguing names entering this winter's fray are pitchers that, despite previous struggles or injuries, show potential upside that could be harnessed in the right environment. Here, we discuss five non-tendered pitchers worth monitoring:Jason Foley (30)Foley’s career has taken him through ups and downs, marked by injuries in recent seasons. The right-hander boasts an impressive resume when healthy, featuring a career 3.16 ERA over 199.2 innings and significant late-inning experience as the former closer for the Tigers. If he can rebound from shoulder surgery, he could be a steal in free agency for a team seeking a reliable arm for high-pressure situations.Mark Leiter Jr. (35)Leiter's entire career has been a testament to persistence. This veteran reliever has seen patchy success at the big-league level, pitching well over the past three years with a notable strikeout rate of 29.2%. If his batted ball luck normalizes, he possesses the potential to emerge as a solid late-inning asset, particularly against left-handed batters where he has shined.Evan Phillips (31)Phillips has been a dominant force for the Dodgers before undergoing Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him in 2025. With a 2.22 ERA during his time in Los Angeles, his recovery could make him a sought-after asset for teams looking to strengthen their bullpens for the latter half of the 2026 season.Gregory Santos (26)The youngest on this list, Santos gained notoriety with a promising season with the White Sox, demonstrating a solid track record despite injuries hampering his recent performances. His mix of strikeouts and ground balls signifies potential that could easily resurface if he finds an organization willing to invest in his recovery.Jacob Webb (32)Having been non-tendered in consecutive seasons, Webb possesses a respectable 3.38 ERA over the last four years despite mediocre velocity. For teams looking for a serviceable middle reliever without breaking the bank, Webb offers experience at a budget-friendly price, especially given his ability to not walk many batters and induce weak contact.Why This MattersThe offseason is a crucial time for teams in search of undervalued talent, and non-tendered players present unique opportunities. While these pitchers come with risks tied to their past performances and injuries, the potential rewards make them valuable targets for savvy front offices looking to maximize payroll efficiency while enhancing the roster.Making Decisions: Teams Must Be StrategicUnderstanding the motivations behind non-tendering players can offer a glimpse into how franchises view their long-term strategies. It also presents tactical opportunities for pitching-needy teams who may find hidden gems in the rough. Fans should keep an eye on these players, as many could play pivotal roles in reshaping contenders during the 2026 season and beyond.This offseason promises to be a turning point for several careers, and for fans of MLB, following these non-tendered names may reward them with exciting narratives and impactful players in the coming season.