When Freddy Peralta eventually reaches free agency, the New York Mets are expected to be one of the most aggressive teams pursuing the veteran right-hander. Big spenders such as the Los Angeles Dodgers will almost certainly be involved as well, creating a competitive market for one of the most coveted pitchers available.
But beyond the obvious contenders, several unexpected teams could emerge as serious challengers. Throughout baseball, clubs that previously avoided major spending sometimes change course quickly when an elite player becomes available.
Here are three under-the-radar teams that could potentially disrupt the Mets’ pursuit of Peralta next winter.
Chicago White Sox
The Chicago White Sox could quietly position themselves as a surprise bidder.
Despite trading star outfielder Luis Robert Jr., the organization was surprisingly active this past offseason. Chicago took a chance on Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami and brought back Anthony Kay after his success overseas, signaling a willingness to reshape the roster rather than remain in a full rebuild.
The team also has relatively few long-term financial commitments beyond the next couple of seasons. Aside from contracts like Andrew Benintendi’s deal running through 2027, Chicago’s payroll flexibility could allow the front office to pursue a major pitching investment.
Signing Peralta to a long-term contract of seven or eight years could be the type of move that signals a shift toward contention for a franchise eager to regain credibility with its fan base.
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles are often mentioned as a logical landing spot whenever a top starting pitcher reaches free agency, but historically they have rarely completed those blockbuster deals.
Baltimore’s young core has turned the team into a consistent contender, and adding a frontline starter could push them closer to a championship. In theory, Peralta would fit perfectly atop a rotation built to support an already strong roster.
Still, the Orioles’ cautious approach to massive pitching contracts leaves uncertainty about whether they would ultimately outbid teams like the Mets.
However, if Baltimore finally decides to fully commit financially to its competitive window, Peralta could become a prime target.
Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels represent another intriguing darkhorse.
Unlike some rebuilding teams, the Angels have never been shy about spending in free agency. The problem has often been inconsistent roster construction, leading to expensive contracts that did not translate into postseason success.
With the franchise enduring the longest playoff drought in Major League Baseball, adding a top-tier starting pitcher could be one way to change the narrative.
The organization’s growing financial resources — including revenue from its team-owned television network — could also increase its ability to compete for premium free agents.
Pairing Peralta with Mike Trout and the rest of the Angels’ core could offer the franchise a fresh attempt to return to postseason relevance.
Mets still likely favorites
While these three teams could create surprise competition, the Mets remain one of the most logical landing spots for Peralta.
New York’s willingness to spend in free agency and its constant pursuit of top-tier pitching make the club a natural candidate to chase a frontline starter.
Still, as recent MLB offseasons have shown, unexpected bidders often emerge when elite talent hits the market.
If Peralta becomes available next winter, the Mets may have to fend off more competition than originally expected.
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