The 2026-27 offseason officially kicked off Friday with 14 players hitting free agency, per ESPN's reporting. Michael King and Sonny Gray led the group into the open market, where negotiations will begin in earnest once the free-agent period formally opens at 5 p.m. ET on Nov. 2.
The Miami Marlins, however, moved decisively to keep their ace off the block. Sandy Alcantara was blocked from free agency by the organization Friday, meaning the Marlins exercised their non-tender option rather than allow him to test the market. The move keeps Alcantara's negotiating power in Miami's hands through the arbitration process.
Elsewhere, the offseason saw significant player decisions finalized. Bo Bichette exercised his $42 million player option to remain with the New York Mets for next season, per ESPN, ensuring continuity in the Mets' lineup heading into 2027.
The Houston Astros, meanwhile, made a front-office move Friday, hiring Randy Flores—an executive from the Cardinals organization—as their new general manager, per ESPN.
As teams position themselves for the coming market, the Wisconsin Brewers continued celebrating their first World Series title. Tens of thousands of Brewers fans flooded the streets of downtown Milwaukee for a parade and victory rally Friday, marking the franchise's championship run.
This article synthesizes reporting from ESPN. Top story: "Michael King, Sonny Gray among 14 MLB players to become free agents" (ESPN).