The MLB season is officially underway, but the free-agent market still has a few leftovers sitting on the shelf. And one of the most surprising names still waiting for a team? Alex Verdugo.
We’re talking about a guy who was an everyday outfielder for the New York Yankees last season, a team that went all the way to the World Series. He wasn’t just a passenger on that ride either.
He drove in five runs, hit a home run, and played a key role in the postseason. Yet, Verdugo is still unsigned.
Why No Team Has Signed Verdugo
It’s not like Verdugo was a problem in the clubhouse and is pushing teams away. Actually, the opposite seems to be true. Yankees stars like Aaron Judge, Anthony Volpe, Marcus Stroman, and Trent Grisham all had good things to say about him. If he had chemistry with the reigning American League champs, you’d think another team would be eager to bring him in.
There has been some interest. Reports have linked Verdugo to the Pittsburgh Pirates, Los Angeles Angels, and Houston Astros. But unfortunately, not a single one of those teams actually made an official offer. Instead, they went in other directions.
- The Pirates signed Tommy Pham for a bargain $4.05 million on a one-year deal. That’s probably about half of what Verdugo would cost.
- The Astros opted for Ben Gamel, another left-handed corner outfielder, at just $1.2 million.
- The Angels showed interest but never followed up with anything concrete.
So, if teams were looking for an outfielder, and Verdugo was available, why did they all pass?
Did Verdugo’s 2024 Season Scare Teams Off?
Verdugo had a rough 2024 overall. His 83 OPS+ was well below the league average, marking his worst season since 2018. His OPS dipped from .745 in 2023 to .647 last year as well. That’s a pretty concerning drop-off for a guy who’s supposed to be in his prime.
But here’s the thing: He still has a lot going for him as well.
- He’s only 28. This isn’t a washed-up veteran looking for a final contract—he’s still in his prime and could easily bounce back.
- He’s a strong defender. Verdugo ranked in the 77th percentile for range as a corner outfielder and was in the top ten percent for both arm value and strength, according to Baseball Savant. That’s the kind of glove teams usually love to have.
- He’s durable. The guy has played in at least 140 games every season since 2019. Sure, he’s had minor injuries here and there, but he’s been a pretty reliable presence in any lineup.
Where Does Verdugo Go from Here?
At this point, it’s a waiting game. A team with a hole in the outfield or an injury in spring training could come calling. Verdugo might have to settle for a short-term, prove-it deal, but there’s still a good chance he will find a home sooner rather than later.
His defense, durability, and postseason experience should be enough to get him a contract if nothing else.
