Overview
- Shane Bieber chose a $16 million player option to remain with the Blue Jays for 2026, a surprise decision that immediately stabilizes Toronto's rotation.
- Alex Bregman exited the final two years of his three-year, $120 million Red Sox deal, walking away from $80 million in heavily deferred 2026–27 salary to re-enter free agency.
- The early post-World Series window has produced 153 free agents so far, according to the Associated Press, with additional option calls still due before the deadline.
- Cody Bellinger declined a $25 million option with the Yankees, Edwin Díaz left a player-optioned path with the Mets, and both Pete Alonso and Padres closer Robert Suárez also opted for free agency.
- Boston’s roster calculus shifted as Lucas Giolito declined a $19 million mutual option to hit the market, while Trevor Story opted in under a $25 million-per-year structure that keeps him at shortstop.