MLB qualifying offer: Candidates to receive QO, plus how the one-year, $21.05 million deal works

The 2024 World Series has concluded, leading to over 100 players becoming free agents. Teams must make decisions regarding contract options and qualifying offers, with the QO set at a record $21.05 million this offseason. Players have until Nov. 19 to accept or reject the QO, with draft-pick compensation attached if rejected. Eligibility for the QO depends on certain criteria, and teams losing qualified free agents face varying compensation rules based on factors like revenue sharing and competitive balance tax. Notable players who are not eligible for the QO this offseason include those who were traded during the 2024 season. Nine players are considered locks to receive and decline the qualifying offer this offseason, including Willy Adames, Pete Alonso, Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Teoscar Hernández, Sean Manaea, Anthony Santander, and Juan Soto. Jurickson Profar and Tyler O’Neill are likely to receive the QO, while Christian Walker is expected to decline it. Pitchers Nick Pivetta, Luis Severino, and Michael Wacha are on the bubble, with Gleyber Torres also considering his options. Walker Buehler and Max Kepler are unlikely to receive the QO, and no free-agent relievers are at that level. Shane Bieber and Ha-Seong Kim are rehabbing from major surgeries and may not receive the QO. The Padres face uncertainty with Kim’s $8 million mutual option due to his recent labrum surgery, potentially leading to a decline from either side. Kim could opt for free agency seeking a larger payday, or the Padres may pass due to medical concerns. The club’s financial situation suggests a clean break is likely, impacting decisions on qualifying offers for Bieber and the potential reunion with Kim.

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