Best Free-Agent Starting Pitchers after Tarik Skubal

As the winter free-agent market approaches, Tarik Skubal has emerged as the definitive top starting pitcher available. Skubal, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, demonstrated impressive form following a swift recovery from elbow surgery during the season. However, identifying the next best starting pitcher offers a challenge for teams looking to make strategic signings in an uncertain market.

After Skubal, the drop in talent causes significant concern, yet opportunities still exist for teams that proceed with caution. This evaluation centers not merely on who pitched best in 2026, but on which starters provide a strong mix of performance potential, durability, and manageable risk for probable multi-year deals.

Drew Rasmussen was retained by the Rays via a $20 million club option, while Sandy Alcantara was similarly kept by the Marlins at $21 million, removing two potential candidates from consideration.

Established Performers

Kevin Gausman (entering age-36 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 7.2) highlights concerns regarding age. Gausman, who will turn 36 in January, has seen limited performance from pitchers of his age in recent years. Nonetheless, since 2021, his innings thrown position him among the leaders—only Logan Webb has thrown more innings, while several others fall behind in fWAR. His four-seam/splitter combination has allowed him to maintain an impressive track record, though he experienced a decline in fastball velocity last season.

Michael King (age-32 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 3.6) offers teams a reliable option. He rebounded from durability concerns by logging 185 innings with a 3.21 ERA last season. Though he lacks elite strikeout capability, his pitch selection generates substantial weak contact.

Sonny Gray (age-37 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 7.0) presents a risky investment due to age and performance inconsistencies. However, he has sustained productivity over four seasons and boasts impressive durability.

Upside Plays

Freddy Peralta (age-31 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 5.5) had a strong second half in Tampa Bay, prompting interest in his future contributions, although some uncertainty remains about his transformation.

Trevor Rogers (age-29 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 7.3) saw significant improvements in strength and performance last season, establishing himself as a key option among free agents with high potential returning value.

Alternative Candidates

Nick Martinez (age-36 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 4.9) is a reliable multi-inning pitcher known for minimizing hard contact.

Shota Imanaga (age-33 season; 2025-26 fWAR: 2.7) also shows promise as he improved his velocity and effectiveness last season.

As the free-agent market develops, teams will closely analyze these starters to determine the best fits for their future rosters.