What happened: On Foul Territory, host Jim Bowden said free-agent right-hander Freddy Peralta fully restored his market value during the second half of the 2026 season. Speaking with co-host Erik Kratz, Bowden noted that Peralta corrected midseason mechanical and arm-extension issues to bring his fastball back to 97-98 mph alongside a sharp changeup.

Why it matters: In his Foul Territory commentary, Bowden said a shortage of tradeable starters who can pitch five to six innings strengthens Peralta's leverage entering the offseason. Bowden added that while major agencies may seek pre-lockout deals similar to Max Scherzer's signing before the last work stoppage, high-payroll clubs like the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers could hesitate without cap-grandfathering assurances, opening a lane for smaller-market clubs.

What to watch: Bowden said he plans to attend the November GM Meetings, where clubs and agents will test whether top free agents sign before the December 1 collective bargaining agreement expiration.