This week marks a significant moment for starting pitchers as many enter free agency, with Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and Blake Snell leading the pack in interest.

Yusei Kikuchi, a 33-year-old left-hander, has emerged as a highly sought-after player after a successful season with the Toronto Blue Jays and Houston Astros. His lack of a qualifying offer makes him an appealing option for teams looking to bolster their rotations without draft pick penalties.

Agent Scott Boras emphasizes that Kikuchi's situation has opened the door for a wider range of teams to pursue him, potentially leading to a lucrative contract despite the recent trend of short-term deals for free agents.