MLB Free Agents Flaherty, Santander Open to Short-Term Deals

NEW YORK — As spring training approaches, two prominent MLB free agents, right-hander Jack Flaherty and outfielder Anthony Santander, are reportedly open to considering short-term contracts with high average annual values, according to league sources. The development comes after first baseman Pete Alonso’s camp signaled a willingness to accept a three-year deal with opt-outs, potentially setting a trend for other players.

Flaherty, 29, remains the youngest unsigned domestic starting pitcher on the market. Despite a strong 2024 season split between the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Dodgers, teams appear hesitant to commit long-term due to his inconsistent performance in recent years. Flaherty posted a 3.17 ERA last season but struggled in key postseason games, raising questions about his reliability.

Santander, 30, is coming off a career-high 44 home runs in 2024 but faces skepticism due to his below-average defensive metrics and .307 career on-base percentage. Both players could benefit from short-term deals that allow them to re-enter the market after proving their value.

Meanwhile, the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs are reportedly eyeing veteran left-handed reliever Brooks Raley, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Raley, 36, hopes to return by July and has discussed multiyear arrangements with several clubs. Before his injury, he ranked among the top left-handed relievers in strikeout rate and WHIP.

In other news, the Atlanta Braves signed former All-Star outfielder Garrett Cooper to a minor-league deal. Cooper, 34, has struggled offensively since his 2022 All-Star season but could compete for a bench role during spring training.

The Yankees also face challenges with right-hander Marcus Stroman, whose contract includes an $18 million player option for 2026 if he pitches 140 innings in 2025. This clause complicates potential trade discussions, as teams may be reluctant to take on the financial risk.

As the offseason progresses, teams are racing to finalize rosters before pitchers and catchers report in February. The market for free agents like Flaherty, Santander, and Raley remains fluid, with short-term deals emerging as a viable option for both players and teams.