Each of the following teams offers a competitive environment and a roster where Burnes could be the difference-maker. Whether they’re trying to maintain a competitive edge, take the next step, or looking to add the final piece, Burnes would have a significant impact. Here are 7 potential landing spots for Corbin Burnes, who could be one of the most sought-after pitchers in free agency:
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have a strong core of young players and could use an ace to lead their rotation. Burnes would complement the development of their pitching staff and give them a legitimate postseason threat as they return to competitiveness. With the Cubs’ improving lineup and a solid bullpen, Burnes could see this as an opportunity to lead a rising team in a big market with the resources to contend. He has pitched most of his career in the NL Central, so he should make a seamless transition.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers consistently pursue elite pitching talent and have the resources to pay top dollar. With Clayton Kershaw’s future uncertain and a need for depth in their rotation, Burnes would bring a reliable ace to their staff. Glasnow has been injury-prone, Ohtani may not be able to pitch until mid-2025, and Jack Flaherty may not return, so the World Champs would be smart to look at adding a pitcher of Burnes’ caliber.
Baltimore Orioles
With Zach Efflin under contract for another year and the emergence of Grayson Rodriguez, the Orioles pitching could be a strong point if they can re-sign Burnes. He was everything they hoped for and more last season, and it would hurt to see him go after just one season. Of course, they knew the risk of trading for him before the 2024 season, but if they want to contend in the AL East again, Burnes should be their number one priority.
San Francisco Giants
The Giants are looking to bounce back into contention, and adding a top-tier starter like Burnes would significantly strengthen their rotation, especially after Blake Snell opted out of his contract. They have been aggressive in recent offseasons and have the payroll flexibility to make a major acquisition. Burnes would thrive in pitcher-friendly Oracle Park, and the Giants recent trend of maximizing pitcher performance could make this a mutually beneficial fit.
New York Yankees
The Yankees are always in the market for frontline starters, especially after recent injuries to their rotation. With Gerrit Cole anchoring their staff, adding Burnes would give them a 1-2 punch capable of dominating in the postseason. Carlos Rodon fit that bill at times, but he pitched poorly on the road and inconsistently in the playoffs. Many will argue that the Yankees have enough pitching, but you can never have enough pitching.
Texas Rangers
The Rangers fell short of expectations in 2024 after bringing home a World Series title in 2023. They could look to add more top-tier pitching to bolster their rotation to make a run and get back to the playoffs. They’ve shown a willingness to spend big on pitching recently, and adding Burnes would cement their status as contenders. Their top pitchers all have injury concerns, so adding Burnes to the mix would give them some security.
Boston Red Sox
The Red Sox need starting pitching as they look to rebuild a rotation that struggled in recent seasons. Burnes would provide them with a solid ace and elevate them in a highly competitive AL East. He pitched well in the division last year for the Orioles, and there is no reason why he couldn’t do so again, this time for Boston. The Red Sox traded away Chris Sale before the 2024 season and watched him go to Atlanta and be one of the best pitchers in baseball again. The best way for them to redeem themselves would be by bringing in a new ace for 2025.