The MLB qualifying offer (QO) is a one-year deal worth $21.05 million that teams can extend to eligible free agents. The Yankees, in particular, have been cautious with the QO due to their commitment to keeping payroll low. This offseason, players like Gleyber Torres, Walker Buehler, and Max Kepler are likely candidates for the QO. However, teams may be hesitant to make an offer, considering the financial commitment and potential injury risks.
The article also highlights the cases of Shane Bieber and Ha-Seong Kim, who are currently rehabbing from major surgeries. While neither player is expected to receive a QO, Kim's situation presents an interesting scenario. If he takes the QO and shows he's healthy in 2025, he could test free agency at age 30 next offseason.