The 2024-25 MLB free agent market has seen a stark contrast between starting pitchers and relievers. While starting pitchers have secured lucrative deals, relievers remain largely unsigned. Only two relievers from MLBTR’s Top 50 Free Agents list have found new homes, both transitioning to become starting pitchers: Clay Holmes and Michael Soroka.

Clay Holmes: The Surprising Start

Clay Holmes, who signed with the New York Mets as a starting pitcher, surprised many with his move. Holmes hasn’t started a game since his rookie season in 2018, yet his transition has been seamless. Over the past four seasons, Holmes has been one of the league’s top relievers, posting a 3.05 ERA and 2.83 SIERA with 74 saves in 264 appearances. His All-Star seasons in 2022 and 2024 further highlight his dominance.

His decision to switch positions could be attributed to several factors, including opportunities in larger roles and potentially higher earnings. This transition from reliever to starter signals a changing landscape in free agency.

Jeff Hoffman: Another Top Reliever on the Move

Jeff Hoffman, another top reliever mentioned in MLBTR’s list, remains unsigned. Like Holmes, he had an All-Star season in 2024 and has reportedly received interest as a starting pitcher. ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted in mid-December that Hoffman had received more interest as a starter, prompting speculation about the type of deal he could secure.

Hoffman has set his sights on a deal in the same range as Holmes’s three-year, $38MM contract with the Mets. Given his strong performance, it’s natural to question why he isn’t asking for a higher figure. Matt Gelb of The Athletic suggests that Hoffman might be wary of undervaluation and is gauging interest on the market.

Comparing Hoffman and Holmes

Hoffman and Holmes share similarities as right-handed relievers with closing experience, and they are both in their late 20s. However, Hoffman has slightly better statistics in recent seasons, including higher strikeout rates and lower walk rates. MLBTR predicted a four-year, $44MM contract for Hoffman and a three-year, $30MM deal for Holmes. Although Holmes beats his prediction by $8MM, it raises questions about whether Hoffman should seek closer to the $56MM deal previously predicted for Tanner Scott.

Hoffman’s agents might be employing a cautious approach by seeking a deal similar to Holmes’s, ensuring they don’t undervalue his contributions.

Potential Suitors for Hoffman

While the Philadelphia Phillies were linked to Hoffman, they have added several pitchers, including Jordan Romano, Jesús Luzardo, and Joe Ross, making it unlikely they will pursue him further. Other teams showing interest in Holmes might reconsider and target Hoffman, given his similar performance and contract aspirations.

The Orioles, known for their interest in Holmes as a starter, have since signed Tomoyuki Sugano. The Blue Jays, interested in Holmes as a reliever, have added Yimi García but might still be in the market for additional bullpen depth. The Red Sox, despite signing three starters and closing deals, might still consider Hoffman if his contract aligns with their budget and needs.

Conclusion

The MLB free agent market showcases the differing fortunes of relievers and starters. Clay Holmes’s journey from reliever to starter sets a precedent, while Jeff Hoffman waits in the wings, hopeful for a similar opportunity. As teams navigate their rosters, the strategy behind signing relievers as starters may become more prevalent, reflecting a shift in how relievers are valued and utilized.

Stay tuned for more insights on the 2024-25 MLB free agent market. We will continue to cover the latest developments and keeping you updated on all the roster moves.

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