NBA Free Agents: Return to Former Teams?

Baseball’s Allure of the Homecoming: Seven Free Agents Poised for Reunion Tours

The most captivating aspect of MLB free agency isn’t just imagining stars in new uniforms – it’s the potential for emotional returns. From Juan Soto’s arrival in Queens to Shohei Ohtani’s move to Los Angeles, the initial shock of players donning unfamiliar colors is undeniable. But a different kind of excitement builds when a beloved player circles back to the team and city where they first thrived. As one observer noted, “It’s sort of a Photoshop Hot Stove: Getting that guy on this team is a big part of the fantasy baseball fun.” But reunions, when they happen, can feel profoundly meaningful.

The Power of a Familiar Fit

The arc of a baseball career is long enough to imbue a return with lasting significance. Seeing a star back in a familiar uniform, finding that the fit is still perfect, resonates deeply with fans. Andrew McCutchen’s recent return to the Pittsburgh Pirates serves as a prime example. “It felt odd that he ever left the Pirates in the first place,” and his homecoming felt undeniably right.

Inspired by “Cutch’s” story, here’s a look at seven free agents and potential reunion destinations, listed in order of how long they’ve been away from their former teams.

Justin Verlander: A Detroit Homecoming?

Few narratives are more compelling than a potential return for Justin Verlander to the Detroit Tigers. Despite a relatively modest 2025 season – 152 innings with a 3.85 ERA and only four wins – the 42-year-old remains an above-average pitcher. He’ll be 43 when the next season begins, making a return to Detroit, where he spent the first 13 years of his career, all the more poetic.

The Tigers are in need of pitching, Verlander needs a home, and, as one analyst pointed out, “How has this not already happened?”

Marcell Ozuna: Back to the Miami Heat?

The Miami Marlins, despite a surprisingly competitive 2024, could benefit from a power boost, having hit the fourth-fewest home runs in the Majors (154). Marcell Ozuna, while no longer the MVP candidate he once was, remains a potent bat. He previously starred in Miami, hitting 96 home runs in 653 games, including 37 in his final season before being traded to St. Louis in 2017. That trade ultimately benefited the Marlins, yielding Sandy Alcantara and Zac Gallen. While limited to DH, Ozuna’s potential affordability could make him a realistic option.

Kyle Schwarber: A Wrigleyville Reunion

If the Chicago Cubs miss out on top free-agent hitters like Kyle Tucker, a familiar face could provide a significant upgrade. Kyle Schwarber, arguably the best player from the Cubs’ 2016 World Series team, would bring a powerful left-handed bat back to Wrigley Field. A return would evoke cherished memories for Cubs fans, marking a full-circle moment a decade after their championship run. Unlike his rookie year, Schwarber is unlikely to be catching this time around.

Eugenio Suárez: A Second Chance in Cincinnati?

Eugenio Suárez’s recent return to Seattle after a disappointing stint from 2022-2023 didn’t quite recapture his Arizona form. However, a reunion with the Cincinnati Reds, where he played for seven seasons and hit 189 home runs, could be a better fit. While the Reds have Ke’Bryan Hayes at third base, Suárez’s ability to DH and provide protection for Elly De La Cruz in the lineup could be invaluable. Could Suárez help Cincinnati return to the playoffs, as he did in 2020?

Cody Bellinger: Completing the Dodger Circle

The Los Angeles Dodgers could benefit from adding another former MVP to their already star-studded lineup. Cody Bellinger, who won his first MVP award with the Dodgers in 2019, has experienced a rollercoaster career since, including struggles after 2020, a rebound with the Cubs, and a trade to the Yankees. Despite not replicating his MVP form, Bellinger remains a valuable player, particularly for a Dodgers team in need of outfielders – including a potential center fielder. It would be a remarkable journey: Dodgers MVP to Non-Tender to Free-Agent Signing in just six years.

Luis King: A Yankee Redemption Story

The New York Yankees learned a valuable lesson about trading away potential assets when they included Luis King in the package for Juan Soto, only to see him flourish as an ace in San Diego. With a need for starting pitching, the Yankees have an opportunity to bring King back. As one source stated, “Even better: If they sign him, we can all feel reasonably certain they will not trade him for Soto again.”

José Iglesias: Bringing the Vibes Back to Queens

After a late-season collapse, the New York Mets could use a boost of positivity. Who better to provide that than José Iglesias, the “unofficial Vibe Captain” of the 2024 team, affectionately known as “Mr. OMG”? Iglesias had a career year in 2024, and while his time in San Diego was less successful, perhaps New York is where he truly thrives. The Mets have infield depth, but Iglesias wouldn’t be expensive, and even if his on-field performance doesn’t pan out, his infectious energy would be a welcome addition to the clubhouse and fanbase.