Here's a bold statement: Some of the biggest free-agent signings in recent memory are already being written off as failures. But hold on—is it really time to give up on these players? Not so fast. While their first seasons with new teams were undeniably disappointing, the story isn’t over yet. In fact, 2026 could be the year these nine players prove their worth and silence the doubters. And this is the part most people miss: First-year struggles don’t always predict long-term failure. Let’s dive into their stories and explore why there’s still hope—and plenty of room for debate.
Jack Flaherty, SP, Tigers
After a stellar 2024 season with the Tigers and Dodgers, Flaherty’s free-agent market wasn’t as hot as expected, likely due to durability concerns and past inconsistencies. He returned to Detroit on a two-year deal with an opt-out, but his 2025 performance took a step back. Still, Flaherty exercised his $20 million player option for 2026, and the Tigers are counting on him to anchor their rotation. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Flaherty truly bounce back, or is his decline irreversible? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
Jeff Hoffman, RP, Blue Jays
Hoffman’s 2025 season ended in heartbreak—one pitch away from a World Series title, he gave up a game-tying homer that cost the Blue Jays the championship. While Toronto is sticking with him for now, the memory of that moment lingers. The question is: Can Hoffman mentally recover from such a high-stakes failure? Or will this define his career? Share your take below.
Sean Manaea, SP, Mets
Manaea’s second stint with the Mets in 2025 was marred by injuries and a 5.64 ERA. However, his $75 million contract gives him a strong chance to reclaim a spot in the rotation. But here’s the debate: Is Manaea’s decline a fluke, or is this the new normal? Let’s discuss.
Tyler O’Neill, OF, Orioles
O’Neill’s 2025 season was a reminder of his injury-prone career. After a strong 2024 with the Red Sox, he signed a three-year deal with the Orioles but spent more time on the IL than on the field. The real question: Can O’Neill stay healthy long enough to justify his contract? Or is he destined to be a high-risk, low-reward player?
Joc Pederson, DH, Rangers
Pederson’s 2025 season was a disaster, highlighted by a franchise-record 0-for-41 slump. Yet, he exercised his $18.5 million option for 2026, giving him another shot. The controversy here: Is Pederson past his prime, or can he rediscover his 2022-24 form? What do you think?
Anthony Santander, OF, Blue Jays
Santander’s first year with the Blue Jays was plagued by injuries and underperformance. However, Toronto’s World Series run without him in 2025 sets the stage for a potential comeback. The debate: Can Santander return to his 2024 All-Star level, or was that season an anomaly?
Tanner Scott, RP, Dodgers
Scott’s 2025 season was so underwhelming that the Dodgers signed Edwin Díaz to replace him as closer. Yet, with three years left on his deal, Scott has time to redeem himself. The question: Can Scott regain his All-Star form, or is he a $72 million mistake? Let’s hear your opinions.
Luis Severino, SP, Athletics
Severino’s first year with the A’s was overshadowed by criticism of the team’s temporary park and trade rumors. His 4.54 ERA didn’t help. The controversy: Is Severino’s decline due to external factors, or is he simply past his prime? Share your thoughts.
Christian Walker, 1B, Astros
Walker’s first year with the Astros was a regression, but his 17 home runs in the final 70 games offer a glimmer of hope. The debate: Can Walker return to his D-backs dominance, or is this the new normal? Let us know in the comments.
These players have a lot to prove in 2026, and their stories are far from over. What’s your take? Are these deals salvageable, or are they destined to be remembered as busts? Let’s keep the conversation going!
