The 2026-27 MLB offseason is underway, and while the top 50 free agents command the most attention, plenty of quality players remain available outside the spotlight. CBS Sports Headlines highlights five under-the-radar free agents who can raise a team’s floor and strengthen its supporting cast for the upcoming season.
Bryan Abreu and J.P. Crawford
Right-handed reliever Bryan Abreu experienced a tale of two seasons at age 29, posting a 5.81 ERA before the All-Star break and a 1.71 ERA after. Although he lost close to 2 mph off his fastball and saw a drop in swings and misses, his heavy workload since 2022 may have caught up to him. With strong underlying metrics in the second half and extensive late-inning experience, Abreu can still contribute to a contender’s bullpen as a seventh-inning option. Meanwhile, infielder J.P. Crawford offers a bottom-of-the-order bat who draws walks and hits 10 to 15 home runs. As his defensive range has declined in his early 30s, ending his viability at shortstop, he has transitioned to third base and could also fit at second base. Crawford provides a decent on-base percentage, avoids excessive strikeouts, and brings a strong reputation as a clubhouse presence as his time with the Mariners concludes.
Sean Newcomb and Emilio Pagán
Left-hander Sean Newcomb reinvented himself after nearly exiting baseball two years ago due to injuries and struggles. By transforming into a sinker and curveball pitcher, the 33-year-old carved out a role as a versatile utility reliever who limits walks and hard aerial contact. Newcomb logged at least 90 innings in each of the past two seasons across various roles, including closer, setup man, long reliever, and opener, making him a valuable depth option for a contending club. Right-hander Emilio Pagán excelled after returning from a July hamstring injury at age 35, registering a 1.88 ERA with 34 strikeouts and only five walks across his final 28 and two-thirds innings. While Pagán carries a career 1.51 HR/9 home run risk, his firm fastball and elite splitter generate swings and misses against both righties and lefties, keeping him viable for high-leverage innings.
Joc Pederson
Designated hitter Joc Pederson represents one of the game’s premier platoon options for teams seeking left-handed power. Pederson posted a .245/.338/.496 batting line against right-handers with strong ball-tracking metrics this past season. While primarily a bat-only player who turns 35 in April, he can capably play right field or first base for about six innings before requiring a defensive substitution, while also serving as a positive clubhouse presence.
Teams are expected to ramp up their activity before a potential lockout when the collective bargaining agreement concludes at 11:59 p.m. ET on Dec. 1.
