Top 10 MLB Free-Agent Starting Pitchers for 2026 (Framber Valdez, Dylan Cease, Imai, More)

Who are the best free-agent starting pitchers on the market right now?
In this video, we break down ’s ranking of the top 10 free-agent starting pitchers and explain what makes each arm so valuable heading into the 2026 season.
You’ll learn why Framber Valdez’s consistency, innings volume, and elite ground-ball skills put him near the top of the class, and how his profile fits perfectly for teams with strong infield defense or hitter-friendly ballparks.
We’ll also dive into Dylan Cease’s boom-or-bust upside, his strikeout-heavy approach, and why teams still see frontline potential despite his uneven ERAs in recent seasons.
Ranger Suárez’s run prevention, deep pitch mix, and ability to limit hard contact will be highlighted, showing how he thrives without big velocity or gaudy strikeout numbers.
You’ll get an overview of Tatsuya Imai’s transition from NPB to MLB, his posting timeline, and why many evaluators view him as a top-five starter in this class despite questions about his size and adjustment to Major League hitters.
We’ll break down Michael King’s excellent run-prevention numbers, injury concerns, and why some clubs may see him as a high-upside but risky rotation play for 2026 and beyond.
The video also covers Zac Gallen’s recent downturn, his previous Cy Young-caliber seasons, and whether a change of scenery could help him regain top-of-the-rotation form.
We’ll look at veteran workhorses Merrill Kelly and Chris Bassitt, explaining how their pitchability, durability, and evolving pitch mixes keep them effective even with below-average fastball velocity.
Finally, we discuss Justin Verlander and Tyler Mahle, comparing Verlander’s late-career resurgence with Mahle’s strong results when healthy but inconsistent availability in recent years.
If you’re a fan tracking the hot stove, or you want to know which pitcher your team should target this winter, this breakdown will give you a clear, easy-to-understand guide to the entire top tier of the free-agent starting pitching market.
Don’t forget to like the video, subscribe for more MLB offseason breakdowns, and comment which pitcher you want your team to sign this offseason.