The clock struck 7 PM CT, marking the crucial deadline for Major League Baseball teams to tender contracts to arbitration-eligible players. This year has seen a significant shake-up within the American League, as several players have been cast into free agency after being non-tendered. With the landscape of teams shifting, let's dive into the specifics of who’s been let go and what it means for their futures.

Player Transactions Up for Grabs

The Los Angeles Angels have made the bold decision to non-tender a few notable names, including left-hander Patrick Sandoval, infielder Eric Wagaman, and outfielders Jordyn Adams and Bryce Teodosio. This move signals a shift in strategy for the Angels as they seek to revamp their roster.

In stark contrast, the Houston Astros decided to keep their entire arbitration class intact—a clear indicator of their confidence in the current squad as they chase another championship.

The Oakland Athletics have also joined the ranks of teams releasing players, opting not to tender a contract to right-hander Dany Jiménez. Projected for a salary of $1 million, Jiménez had a rocky 2024 season with a 4.91 ERA over 25 appearances, which included a disappointing walk rate of 16.2%.

The Toronto Blue Jays are eyeing major changes as they plan to non-tender righty Dillon Tate, who garnered attention as a former fourth overall pick but struggled with injuries throughout the 2023 season. His projected salary of $1.9 million might be better spent elsewhere, highlighted by his disappointing 4.66 ERA in 2024. Additionally, they have decided to part ways with righty Jordan Romano, marking a significant shift in their pitching lineup.

The Cleveland Guardians have followed suit, non-tendering outfielder George Valera and right-hander Connor Gillispie, both of whom were previously designated for assignment.

In Seattle, the Mariners have made some tough calls by non-tendering outfielder Sam Haggerty, who faced extensive injury issues (a torn achilles limited him to just eight games in 2024). Alongside Haggerty, they also released infielder Josh Rojas and right-handers Austin Voth and JT Chargois, indicating a broader reevaluation of their roster.

The Baltimore Orioles non-tendered right-hander Jacob Webb, who, despite a solid performance (3.02 ERA with a 24.5% strikeout rate), had too high of a walk rate (11.4%) to justify keeping him at a projected $1.7 million.

The Tampa Bay Rays are shaking up their squad too, announcing the non-tender of outfielder Dylan Carlson and left-handers Tyler Alexander, Colin Poche, and Richard Lovelady. Carlson, who was once a promising player, has seen a significant decline in his offense, while Poche had a respectable 3.86 ERA but was projected for a high salary of $3.4 million.

In a positive light, the Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox, Kansas City Royals, Minnesota Twins, and the New York Yankees all chose to keep their arbitration classes intact, hoping to build on their existing successes.

However, the Yankees did make headlines by non-tendering infielder Jon Berti and left-hander Tim Mayza. Berti, anticipated to earn $3.8 million, had a season marred by injuries, limiting him to just 25 games. Meanwhile, Mayza, projected for $4 million, struggled with a 6.33 ERA this past year.

Last but certainly not least, the Chicago White Sox decided to non-tender first baseman/outfielder Gavin Sheets as well as right-hander Enyel De Los Santos, who fell short with a 5.20 ERA in 2024.

Looking Ahead

As these players enter free agency, clubs across MLB will be eagerly shopping for talent to bolster their rosters. These non-tenders not only shake up individual careers but also set the stage for an intriguing offseason filled with trade talks and target signings. The stakes are high, and fans won't want to miss a moment of this evolving story! What’s your take on these non-tender decisions? Are any of these players primed for a comeback? The dominoes are just starting to fall!