The projected free agent landscape has changed since the start of the 2026 season.

Several players who were expected to be highly sought after have struggled this season, torpedoing their value before they reach free agency. However, with several weeks left in the regular season, a strong finish could help salvage their earning potential. Let's take a look at three players who need a strong showing in September after a disappointing performance thus far.

Three potential free agents needing a strong finish to 2026

1. Pitcher Freddy Peralta

Peralta was expected to be the top-of-the-rotation starter the New York Mets needed as they looked to shake off a disappointing end to the 2025 season. Instead, he came to exemplify the Mets' struggles in 2026, posting a disappointing 4.99 ERA and a 1.478 WHiP with 140 strikeouts and 54 walks over his 113.2 innings before he was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays.

While Peralta's overall numbers for the Rays may not be impressive, he may finally be rounding into form. Peralta has allowed just one run on five hits over his last 12 innings, striking out 11 batters without issuing a walk. If he can continue his strong showing through September and during the Rays probable playoff run, Peralta might be able to reestablish himself as one of the top starters available.

2. Second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Chisholm set himself up for failure this season as the New York Yankees second baseman claimed that he would become the first player in American League history to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases. While Chisholm could reach the 50 stolen base mark (he entered Wednesday with an AL-leading 40 steals), he will not come close to that power mark. Chisholm is instead winding down one of his worst offensive seasons, posting a .232/.311/.408 batting line over 505 plate appearances, hitting 19 homers and 16 doubles.

Chisholm should still be a highly sought-after free agent despite those struggles. He showed his potential to be a dynamic all-around offensive threat in 2025 when he hit 31 homers and stole 31 bases. Although he will not reach his 50/50 goal, a strong final few weeks would push his stock higher.

3. Outfielder Daulton Varsho

An excellent defensive outfielder and the 2024 AL Gold Glove winner in center, Varsho appeared to have finally taken a long-awaited step forward offensively in 2025. He had posted a solid .238/.284/.548 batting line with 20 homers and 13 doubles despite receiving only 271 plate appearances due to injuries, giving hope that he could use that performance as a springboard before hitting the open market.

Instead, Varsho has regressed with the bat. He entered Wednesday with a .228/.292/.359 batting line in his 466 plate appearances between the Toronto Blue Jays and Houston Astros, hitting 10 homers and 22 doubles. If Varsho can heat up and be a difference-maker as the Astros look to return to the postseason, he could boost his stock in what may be a weak free agent class in the outfield.