The Chicago Bulls have found it difficult to win this season and currently sit in 12th place in the easy Eastern Conference standings with a 24-31 record. The Bulls showed signs of life before the trade deadline this time around, parting ways with players like Nikola Vucevic, Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White to pursue young players, while also acquiring significant draft capital.

And if rumors are to be believed, there will be plenty of activity this summer as well, with insider Jake Fisher claiming he will have significant spending power with a select few teams in the NBA.

According to The Stein Line, he said, “The Clippers, Lakers, Nets and Bulls, however, are in position to spend some big money. Sources say Chicago has already sent some signals that it will consider wings – including as restricted free agents – while the Bulls also clearly need a starting-caliber big man.”

Fisher claimed that the Washington Wizards’ moves for Anthony Davis and Trae Young, as well as the Utah Jazz’s move for Jaren Jackson Jr., mean those two teams no longer have the financial means to make big moves in the summer.

Regardless, the Bulls primarily accumulated a second-round pick in the moves before the previous deadline. The situation worsened when the previously included 2029 second-round pick was reportedly removed due to medical findings on White’s calf injury, further reducing Chicago’s return.

At the same time, the plan appears simple. The Bulls are looking to build around players like Josh Giddy and Matas Buzelis, even if they are not yet viewed as stars capable of bringing them back to playoff relevance.

The overall strategy seems almost encouraging given the current trajectory, with the Bulls’ recent skid improving their draft lottery prospects significantly. After years of hovering around the .500 mark and searching for playoff relevance, there was no doubt that a reset was inevitable.

Whether this leads to success in the coming season remains to be seen.

Earlier this week, sports witness Covered BILD’s claims about Tottenham’s interest in Leon Goretzka.

Igor Tudor’s side are said to be competing with Arsenal for the German, whose contract at Bayern Munich expires in the summer.

The newspaper is convinced that the midfielder has decided to leave Bavaria after a period of eight years.

His stance regarding the future club was not clear, but now information is emerging from Italy about his priorities and demands.

Tottenham can get a big benefit

interest The report regarding the Germany international, makes it clear that Inter Milan are also interested in Goretzka.

Their work will not be easy. The main reason for this is the 31-year-old’s wages, as he demands €9m per season. Inter cannot afford it and only clubs from the United States and Saudi Arabia will pay.

For now, Goretzka is keen to stay in Europe. This could prove crucial for Tottenham, who are also mentioned as suitors. There is also interest from Manchester United, AC Milan and Galatasaray, with the player awaiting a final decision on his next club.

The outlet is confident that the former Schalke player will leave Bayern Munich.

Tottenham may not need Goretzka

At the moment, Tottenham need technically skilled midfielders who can attack. They went the wrong way in January and signed Conor Gallagher, despite their strength being in the final third.

Goretzka is exactly the same. He has never been a technical outlet and his best performances have come as a receiver around the box.

This makes him a player that Tottenham cannot do without. Apart from this, he will also get a huge salary. Spurs may be able to afford him but he won’t meet the price, especially if he plays deeper. He is 29 years old and this too would only be a short-term option.

So the London club should be wary of this move and let other clubs take the lead.

The LA Clippers picked up a win against the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night thanks to big scoring from Benedict Mathurin and Kawhi Leonard. However, he also got assistance from Jamal Murray.

Down by three points, the Nuggets first-time NBA All-Star guard was fouled on a three-point shot attempt with 0.9 remaining on the game clock and no timeouts remaining for either team. Murray, historically a clutch free throw shooter, stepped to the free throw line in front of the Clippers’ wall with a chance to tie the game and possibly send it to overtime.

Jamal Murray missed the first free throw, hit the back of the rim on the second free throw, and then had to wait about 30 seconds due to a substitution before taking his third and final free throw to tie. That shot veered off the right side of the rim and rolled right to left, effectively giving the Clippers the win.

Jamal Murray vs. The Wall… missed the last of 3 free throws to tie and the Clippers won. pic.twitter.com/nFuWFgi1Gx

-Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) 20 February 2026

“What was going through my mind?” When Kawhi Leonard was asked this question after the game, he repeated it. “Uh, I was just hoping he’d miss one, seriously, sh-t,” Kawhi Leonard said. “I mean, we were up by three, he dropped the first two, so really expected he would miss.”

Kawhi Leonard explains what was going through his mind during Jamal Murray’s game-tying free throws:

“I was just hoping he’d miss one, really, bullshit. I mean, we were up by three, he dropped the first two, so I was really hoping he’d miss.” https://t.co/BYVzOwVuLO pic.twitter.com/0oG8ybH6oS

-Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) 20 February 2026

Shooting 88.7 percent on the season, Jamal Murray has missed 11 free throws in clutch situations (defined as a five-point game in the final five minutes) this season. Murray is just 11-of-18 from the free throw line in the final minutes of games with a margin of three or fewer points this season.

Kawhi Leonard finished Thursday night’s game with 23 points on 8-of-18 shooting, adding four rebounds and three assists. The Clippers forward was clearly battling some type of cold or illness after the game, which is why Benedict Mathurin’s big performance was much needed.

In his third game with the LA Clippers, Mathurin scored 38 points on 12-of-22 shooting from the field and 12-of-13 from the free throw line. The 38-point performance is the most by a Clippers player in his home debut as well as the highest individual career performance for the fourth-year guard out of Arizona.

Bayern Munich are expected to sign Joao Palinha from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer. But their plans could be spoiled with Leon Goretzka becoming available on a free transfer.

This is according to Sport BuildWhich cover today’s situation. The German newspaper reports that the recent dismissal of Thomas Frank has thrown Palahinha’s future into question.

The Portuguese midfielder joined Tottenham on loan from Bayern in the summer transfer window. That deal includes the option for him to make it permanent in the summer. It will cost them €30m to do so.

The question is whether they will do so. It is up to their next permanent manager to decide and it remains to be seen who that will be. Igor Tudor is currently the man in the dugout but only on an interim basis.

Frank’s exit creates uncertainty at Tottenham

He replaced Thomas Frank, who was a big supporter of Palhinha and wanted him in the summer. And according to Sport Bild, his exit means a permanent deal is now in jeopardy.

There is also the issue of Goretzka. He is leaving Bayern on a free transfer in the summer and would love to move to the Premier League. Tottenham is one of the English teams interested in him.

The idea is clear and distinct. Tottenham will avoid paying €30m for Pelhinha in preference to acquiring Goretzka on a free transfer. Spurs somehow get the midfielder they want but saving money while doing so would be a huge boost.

Goretzka’s interest is not new

Tottenham’s interest in Goretzka is also nothing new. Sport Witness has covered several reports about it over the past year.

These have gained momentum following his announcement that he will leave Bayern Munich on a free transfer this summer. Even, reportedly, A surprise bid at the end of the January transfer window.

The expectation is that he will be a strong target for Tottenham when the summer window opens. But now, it seems, it could also mean that Palhinha has been dropped in favor of him.

Tottenham Hotspur and Barcelona are among several clubs eyeing the signing of AFC Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi in the summer.

is according to MarkWhich covers interest from Tottenham and Barcelona in the centre-back.

The Argentina international has less than six months left on his contract and has not signed an extension with Bournemouth.

This has not affected his playing time as Bournemouth manager Andoni Ierola has used him regularly this season. To put this into context, Senesi has played 2,285 minutes in 27 matches in all competitions and 25 of those were in the Premier League.

Market opportunity for Spurs and Barcelona

The 28-year-old’s performances, contract situation and experience make him a market opportunity for Tottenham, Barcelona and other clubs.

On 9 February, Game Witness broadcast news from Chelsea, Everton, Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion are interested in Italy Senesi.

Last week, Sports Witness Another Italian claim covered Spurs are joining the race to sign the Bournemouth player. Marca now works on that and covers the latest on the North London club, Barcelona and other clubs.

Tottenham keen on Bournemouth player

Radio Marca’s La Pizarra discusses the situation in South America and the interest generated so far.

‘Interest is strong and varied’, and Spurs are immediately mentioned. Now reports say the Europa League winners are the ‘most watched team’ and will face stiff competition to secure his services.

Barcelona are monitoring the Cherries defender, while Juventus and Borussia Dortmund are also in the picture.

According to the report, both the Bundesliga side and the Turin club are planning to make offers, with the possibility of signing him for free after this season.

Marca said ‘Premier League teams are preparing offers’ to sign Senesi. However, it is unclear whether Tottenham is one of them or not as their details are not specified.

It is quite possible that Chelsea, Everton, Crystal Palace or Brighton could make an offer for the Bournemouth man. Premier League teams including Tottenham will have to battle it out with Barcelona, ​​Juventus and BVB to sign Senesi.

NFL free agency is right around the corner, and there are some high-level skill players available on both sides of the ball this offseason. However, winning in the trenches is more important than ever; That’s why some of the best offensive linemen in NFL free agency will receive lucrative contracts this offseason.

Let’s take a look at our NFL offseason predictions to see where the top offensive linemen land in NFL free agency.

Rasheed Walker, OT: Pittsburgh Steelers

It seems like the possibility of Aaron Rodgers returning as the Pittsburgh Steelers starting quarterback in 2026 is increasing. If that happens, the club would be wise to upgrade at left tackle. Things never worked out well with Broderick Jones, so we can’t count on the Steelers to bring someone in and develop him. Instead, they could go after the best offensive tackle in NFL free agency. Rasheed Walker is somewhat like Dan Moore Jr., although perhaps better in pass protection. Acquiring him would cost over $20 million in AAV, but the Steelers have enough cap space to make it happen. Also, he may remain fit for a long time as he has just turned 26.

RELATED: NFL offseason predictions for top edge rushers

Braden Smith: Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams certainly have the option to use one of their first-round selections on an offensive tackle to replace Rob Havenstein. However, going after a sure thing for a Super Bowl contender is a much safer bet. Braden Smith is an above-average starter at right tackle, providing stability in both pass protection and run blocking. Durability is their biggest issue, but the Rams do have a backup plan, as Warren McClendon Jr. proved he could hold his own as a fill-in starter last season.

RELATED: Bold NFL offseason predictions for QB landing spots

Isaac Seumalo, IOL: Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders will definitely spend money in NFL free agency; It’s just a question of which offensive lineman they go after. Guard Isaac Seumalo not only brings the playing style and mentality that new head coach Clint Kubiak likely wants in the trenches, but he also provides something else that Las Vegas needs. Seumalo finished last season with the third-highest ESPN pass-block win rate (97 percent) in the NFL; The veteran is exactly who the Raiders should put at left tackle to protect Fernando Mendoza.

READ MORE: NFL offseason predictions for the top running backs in NFL free agency

David Edwards, IOL: Houston Texans

The Houston Texans need to do a lot more this offseason to protect CJ Stroud. It would also help if the front office invested more in improving the ground game. The signing of David Edwards helps on both counts. Edwards ranked 10th among interior linemen in ESPN run-block win rate (75 percent) in 2025, and he allowed only one quarterback hit while earning the 14th-best PFF pass-blocking grade among guards. This is the type of investment that is desperately needed in Houston, and it would be a huge step towards a more consistent and well-developed offense in 2026 and beyond.

Read more: NFL free agency predictions for top wide receivers

Connor McGovern, C: Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers could get a quality starting guard in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Unfortunately for the club, this year’s prospect pool is worryingly low at center back. This leaves NFL free agency as the best way to upgrade at the position. They would have to beat the Buffalo Bills to land Connor McGovern, as he ranked third among all centers in ESPN pass-block win rate (97 percent) last season. it is worth it. Moving from Bradley Bozeman to McGovern would be a huge upgrade for the interior Chargers offensive line and would do wonders to help Justin Herbert and Mike McDaniel.

Read More: 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Tyler Linderbaum, C: Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens will not use the franchise tag to prevent Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum from reaching NFL free agency. However, we can’t imagine the club losing him on the open market. Baltimore already had a bottom-10 offensive line in 2025, with the interior being the biggest reason for the unit’s struggles. Losing Linderbaum will put Lamar Jackson under even more pressure in worse circumstances next season. Baltimore may not like the price they paid to re-sign Linderbaum, but it’s worth it; This is why interior offensive linemen of his caliber rarely leave the team that drafted them when they are entering the prime of their careers.

RELATED: NFL Trades We’d Like to See This Offseason

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

The Los Angeles Lakers are currently preparing for the unofficial second half of their season following the All-Star Game over the weekend. The Lakers are currently in a solid position in the Western Conference playoff picture, but are just two games above the play-in line, meaning things could get dangerous down the road.

Los Angeles had a relatively quiet trade deadline, trading Gabe Vincent to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for sharpshooter Luke Kennard, but did little to address his lack of defensive versatility.

Now, some people are already looking forward to the summer, when many three-and-D free agents will be on the market.

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, an Eastern Conference executive said, “They need to bring in more defenders with length who can knock down a shot.”

“Unrestricted free agents who have been discussed internally, sources told ESPN, include Andrew Wiggins and Tari Eason, while Tobias Harris, Quentin Grimes and Dean Wade are other players who fit that profile,” McMenamin reported.

McMenamin also said that “the Lakers also privately discussed the signing of restricted free agent Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets.”

At this point, all indications are that the Nuggets plan to bring Watson back after his breakout campaign this season, although Denver ownership has a history of letting prized free agents walk out the door due to an unwillingness to go to some tax apron.

Last year, the Lakers had a solid two-way player in Dorian Finney-Smith, but he joined the Houston Rockets in free agency over the summer.

Currently, there is not a single player on the Lakers roster who is above average on either end of the floor, and many expect the problem to be exposed come playoff time, as it was last year.

The Lakers’ season continues on Friday evening against the Los Angeles Clippers.

As if their coaching and GM changes weren’t enough, the Miami Dolphins are making roster changes that ensure the team will have a much different look in 2026. Tyreek Hill has already been released. The Dolphins also released pass-rusher Bradley Chubb on Monday.

The Dolphins also released James Daniels and Nick Westbrook-Ikhin, freeing up more than $55 million in cap space. Now, we’re taking a look at which teams might try to sign Chubb right now.

RELATED: 5 best Tyreek Hill landing spots after Dolphins release

Chicago Bears

The Bears have championship aspirations with Ben Johnson and Caleb Williams. Still, without improving on a pass-rush that has the fourth-fewest sacks in 2025, the Bears won’t have a chance. One way to fix this is to sign two-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher Bradley Chubb. The 29-year-old tore his ACL in 2024, but he bounced back with an 8.5 sack season in 2025. It would have ranked as second-best in Chicago, and that would certainly have given the Bears a boost.

new England Patriots

The Patriots did not need an excellent pass-rush to reach the Super Bowl, but not having a better pass-rush could have cost them the win. Generating more consistent pressure is vital to New England’s future success, and Chubb can help get the job done.

atlanta falcons

The Falcons finally found a way to generate a pass-rush last season, but James Pierce’s future in Atlanta may be in question after getting into trouble with the law. If the Falcons need someone to step up in his potential absence, Chubb, a Georgia native, could be an ideal option.

kansas city chiefs

Chubb has played seven seasons since being made the fifth overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, but he has only played in one playoff game. He came back in 2022. If Chubb is prioritizing a chance to get back to the playoffs, he might be taking a gamble on getting back on track in Kansas City. They will also get a chance to face their old team (Broncos) twice per season.

dallas cowboys

The Cowboys traded away one of the NFL’s best pass-rushers just before the start of last season. They will find it difficult to replace him. Dallas had the seventh-fewest sacks since rebuilding its defense in 2025. Dallas may have a defensive tackle they need to regain the lead. Chubb has double-digit sacks in two seasons, and with Quinnen Williams next to him, he could get there again in Dallas.

RELATED: NFL officials doubt Miami Dolphins’ ability to get rid of Tua Tagovailoa

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

A savvy casino player never settles for the first free spins bonus they come across.

I always do my homework before selecting a free spins offer, and only accept offers that are highly competitive, built on fair terms and deliver genuine value.

My featured free spins offer for February 2026

Still, with so many different online casinos available and a multitude of bonuses thrown your way, I know it can be hard to know which way to go.

Luckily for you, my guide will tell you everything you need to know about free spin bonuses, including the most important things to look out for to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible – including how to increase your win potential.

UK online casinos with the best free spins bonuses

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A closer look at my favourite online free spins casinos: In-depth reviews

1. MrQ

By know, you know how much I appreciate a warm welcome, and MrQ gave me 200 cash spins with my promo code POTS200. The spins are wager free!

In other words, the best part is that there was no cap on my winnings from the spins, and my prize was instantly added to my real cash balance. While MrQ doesn’t offer any bonus cash promos, you’ll be able to collect plenty of wager-free spins on a very regular basis, too.

2. Magic Red

I immediately liked that Magic Red Casino keeps things simple and straightforward with a clean site that gets back to casino basics. I thought the best part was their fully stocked promo section that starts with a welcome offer of a hefty deposit match and, even better, 20 wager-free free spins.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! I had the option to join a highly rewarding loyalty club, pick up weekly free spins and monthly cashback. Bonus lovers like me (and you, probably) are guaranteed a great time with every single login.

3. Mr Vegas

If you love big bonuses, then you’re going to love Mr Vegas Casino. As a new player, I got started with a very healthy welcome bonus that comes with £200 in bonus cash, as well as 11 free spins. While I thought this offer was pretty neat, I was kind of disappointed I could only use the spins on Pink Elephants.

Still, Mr Vegas is a very well-stocked online casino, giving players access to all sorts of gambling games like video slots, scratch cards, live casino, and more. It’s mostly slots-oriented, hence the free-spins bonus, but connoisseurs of other live casino games will have something to work with, too.

4. Duelz

If you appreciate a themed online casino like I do, then the fantasy and whimsy of Duelz Casino will be a great surprise. The fact that I also got to experience the site with generous offers just added to the appeal. On top of that Duelz is one of the best Pay by Mobile casinos out there.

I kicked things off with a welcome bonus of 100% up to £100 and 100 free spins to wager on Book of Dead. Thanks to the gamified style of this mobile casino, I was also able to unlock treasures and spells along the way for even more rewards. I managed to snag 10% cashback, daily promos, and even real cash prizes.

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How I rated free spins casinos

There are several aspects I consider when choosing a free spins bonus. First, I take a close look at both the online casino as a general service, as well as the rules and restrictions relating to the individual bonus.

This may seem overwhelming, and it’s a lot of information to digest, but I’ve made it simple by highlighting the most critical points that set apart quality bonuses from time wasters.

How to claim a free spins bonus

If you’re already familiar with casino bonuses, then my explanation of free spin offers won’t give you any trouble, since they work exactly the same way. If you’re a newbie, here’s my step-by-step guide on how to get your hands on the best free spins bonuses in town:

1. Log in to your favourite online casino or choose one of my recommended best casino sites
2. Click onto the promo section on the site after you register or log in
3. Browse the available offers and choose the free spin bonus 
4. Read the terms and conditions to make sure it represents great value
5. Follow the on-page instructions to activate the offer and get spinning

The best strategy to maximise your free spins winnings

In my opinion, the main thing to keep in mind is that free spins on RNG slots are entirely luck-based. They can never be influenced by any kind of skill on the part of the player, and I can tell you now any claims to the contrary are fraudulent.

That being said, there are things you can do to play smarter and increase your chances of success before you actually spin the reels. 

• Be choosy about wagering requirements – Look out for wager-free bonuses that put you in a win-win situation. The next best thing are bonuses with very low wagering requirements that you’re likely to meet quickly.
• Investigate the special features – When selecting the slot to play on, do some research on the different games on offer. Feature-rich games give you a greater chance of hitting bonus games and multiplier rounds for larger wins. 
• Look up the slot’s RTP – Your bonus will sometimes allow you to choose from a range of different slot games. The higher the RTP the better, and always go 96% or higher. As a general rule, older games tend to have lower RTPs.
• Volatility matters – If you’re working with a small number of free spins, you’ll want to avoid high volatility slots as you won’t have enough spins to hit decent payouts. But if you have a big stack of spins then choose high volatility games as you’ll have the opportunity to wait out the dry spells.
• Set a budget and stick to it – It doesn’t matter how good the offer is, if it requires you to spend more than you can afford it’s simply not worth the risk. Only sign up for free spin bonuses that sit comfortably within your budget. Better to take 20 free spins with a low deposit then put up more cash for 100 spins that might not translate into a win. 

1

Free spin wagering requirements

Wagering requirements are always determined by the online casino, and they can change from promotion to promotion. The wagering set dictates how many times you need to play though your bonus win before you can withdraw it as cash.

Always do your research before committing yourself to a free spin bonus as it can mean the difference between success and failure. It goes without saying that the lower the rollover requirements the better. As a general rule, I don’t recommend accepting wagering requirements over 35x.

My favourite free spin casino 

There are plenty of best online casinos that offer free spins bonuses. Some offers are available all year round, while others are one-offs or launched to celebrate seasons or particular milestones. All the casinos I mention in this guide are top options for safety, game selection and bonuses.

But every betting site is free to offer promos in any way they see fit, meaning that the choices will vary from site to site. Which one is best for you depends on your preferences. Some online casinos run entirely on free spin bonuses, while others like to mix it up with bonus cash deals.

In my exprience, online casinos like Winomania and Mr Vegas offer a constant flow of free spin promotions, including opportunities to win wager-free spins. For even more variety, check out bet365 and experience the thrill of sports free bets alongside casino bonuses that regularly dole out 200 free spins.

Are there any free spins bonuses for mobile? 

These days, online casino operators understand that people prefer the ease and convenience of accessing entertainment via mobile devices via mobile casinos. That’s why all quality online casinos are optimised for mobile use, and many of them also have mobile apps which you can download via the App Store or Google Play.

Regardless of where and how you choose to engage with an online casino, the promotions remain unchanged. Some casinos that want to encourage players to download their app will even offer exclusive bonuses for mobile users.

In short, free spins bonuses are highly compatible with mobile gameplay, and you might even get more than you bargained for. 

What other bonus offers can I get from online casinos?

As the market grows ever further, I’m happy to see online casinos are becoming more and more creative, with new bonus offers and incentive programs popping up all the time. Of course, you and I are here for free spin bonuses, but aside from those, these are the most common offers you’ll come across:

• Deposit match bonuses – Deposit match bonuses are there to match your cash deposit with bonus cash. This is usually 100%, but sometimes it’s 75%, 50% or less. For example, 100% up to £100 means that if you deposit £30, you’ll get another £30 in bonus cash on top. You can deposit up to £100 for another £100 in bonus cash at the maximum. Bonus cash usually comes with wagering requirements that can attach to just the bonus, or both the bonus and the real cash.
• No deposit bonuses – No deposit casino bonuses are less common, but they allow players to explore games in a risk-free capacity. Usually made up of free spins, players are generally invited to register at a new online casino and try things out with a free bonus. There’s no requirement to make a deposit. These bonuses almost always come with wagering requirements, so even if your bonus translates into a win, you’ll eventually have to deposit in order to play through the bonus win and turn it into real cash.
• Cashback bonuses – No one likes to lose a bet or a spin, but it’s an inevitable part of gambling. Cashback bonuses help you to recoup part of your losses. These bonuses calculate a percentage of your net losses over a given period (usually a week) and credit the value to your balance. This is usually 10%, but it can climb higher when tied to a loyalty program. Some online casinos have cashback programs that run on real cash rewards, but most of the time you’ll get bonus cash that’s attached to wagering requirements. 
• Reload bonuses – Reload bonuses are how casinos reward loyal players who’ve used up the welcome bonus. They’re built on bonus cash, and activated when you make a qualifying deposit. These offers tend to be smaller, but offer a nice boost. For example, 50% up to £200 is a decent boost, assuming the wagering requirements and other terms are fair.

Casino free spins FAQ

While free spins are a staple in most online casinos, there’s still a few unknowns out there about them. I’ll do my best to illuminate the answers to them for you below.

1. Can you use multiple free spins offers?

Yes, if there are free spins promotions available outside of the welcome offer, then you can claim as many of them as you want. Sometimes the terms will include a restriction that blocks you from activating the promo while another is running concurrently, but this is most commonly found when you’re in the process of using up the welcome offer.

As a general rule, casino promotions are created to incentivise players to play, meaning you should feel free to use as many free spin offers as the gambling site makes available to you. As a player, you can also take advantage of multiple offers at the same time by signing up for multiple casinos. This goes both for current casinos, but especially also for new casinos that tend to give out great bonusses to attract players.

2. Are casinos that offer free spins safe?

As long as the casino site has a UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence, it’s a safe place to play and claim bonuses.

Free spin bonuses are amongst the most common casino bonuses you’ll find online. But a bonus is only as safe as its host site. While there’s nothing unusual or suspicious about the bonus itself, you should always be careful about which casino you choose to play at.

You can even check out online forums where real players discuss their experience playing on a given site.

3. Are there any free spins bonuses for existing players?

Yes, and Magic Red Casino is a great example of an online casino with exciting free spins bonuses built in for players who remain on the site. That means the fun doesn’t stop after the welcome bonus is exhausted.

Instead, players can access a fresh stack of spins pretty much every time they log in. Magic Red Casino is a great example of a site with a weekly free spins offer. Magic Spins Tuesday offers players the chance to collect up to 30 free spins to play on famous games like Starburst from Microgaming.

All you need to do is deposit a minimum of £20 and use the bonus code ‘STARspins’. You can deposit up to three times with the same code, for 10 free spins with every deposit.

About the author

Liam Hoofe

Liam is an experienced iGaming and sports betting journalist based in Cardiff. He has worked in the sports betting industry since 2017 and has provided content for some of the biggest casino and betting brands in the UK. He has also covered football and other sports for both regional and national newspapers. 

Find Liam on Twitter: @LiamHoofe

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to sport. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chase their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
• Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

The Cheltenham Festival is the pinnacle of horse racing in the UK and Ireland. It is widely regarded as the most prestigious meeting in the National Hunt calendar, with world‑class horses, jockeys and trainers competing over four days in March.

The event features 28 races and includes championship contests such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle, which are among the most coveted prizes in jump racing. Thousands of spectators attend in person each year, while millions more engage online and via broadcasts, making it one of the most talked‑about racing competitions globally.

For punters, the Cheltenham Festival represents the biggest opportunity of the year to capitalise on free bets, generous offers and rewards from UK bookmakers.

Across the four days, many operators launch their best Cheltenham free bet offers and racing promotions to attract new and even existing customers who might not have tried their hand at betting on the horses yet.

These promotions often combine enhanced odds, bonus credits and special rewards that add real value to a betting account when wagering on key races throughout the festival. If you enjoy horse racing, this festival period is a must‑claim window to secure added betting value and boost your potential returns.

Top Friday Free bets for Cheltenham

1. SBK – Bet £10 Get £40
2. sport BET – Get £30 when you bet £10
3. BetVictor – GET £30 IN FREE BETS when you bet £10 on Horse Racing
4. 247Bet – 100% Match Bonus up to £50
5. Betfred – Bet £10 on Cheltenham and Get £50 In Free Bets
6. bet365 – Bet £10 Get £30 In Free Bets For Cheltenham
7. Sky Bet – Place any bet and get £30 in free bets
8. Tote – Bet £10 get £30 in Free Bets
9. BetMGM – Get £40 In Free Bets When you Bet £10
10. Paddy Power – Bet £5 Get £30 In Free Bets

I will run through some of the best of them below so you can make sure you’re getting the best value for Cheltenham 2026.

Cheltenham 2026 Schedule

Champion Day kicks the Festival off with a mix of top Grade 1 races and key handicaps. Punters often target the Champion Hurdle and Arkle for early betting value.

Wednesday, March 11 – Ladies day Wednesday

Thursday, March 12 – St Patrick’s Thursday

Friday, March 13 – Gold Cup Day

Best Cheltenham Festival free bets in 2026

Almost all of the Cheltenham betting sites offer free bets, and they are quite similar, but here I will point out the sites that offer the biggest amount and the best free bet offers. The only criterion is the biggest and best free bet you can claim.

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Best Free Bets for Cheltenham 2026

1. SBK Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bet welcome bonus
• Offer value: Bet £10, get £40 in free bets
• Min odds: Evens (2.0) min odds required on qualifying bet
• Maximum payout: £40 in free bet tokens
• Expiration date/offer length: Free bets must be used within ~7 days of credit
• Min deposit: £10
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10

This SBK promotion gives new UK customers a welcome bonus value that can be deployed across key Cheltenham races, including handicaps and feature contests such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle.

The offer enhances a new account balance with free bets worth £40 once a £10 qualifying wager settles at min odds of Evens or greater, which in turn protects your initial stake while you explore racing markets. SBK’s strength lies in competitive odds and a simple structure that fits horse racing selections across the entire Festival.

To claim the offer, customers should register a new SBK account and make a qualifying first deposit of at least £10 using accepted payment methods such as debit card or bank transfer.

You need to avoid excluded methods like Skrill or Neteller to ensure eligibility and that you don’t accidentally miss out on the offer. Next, place a £10 wager at odds of 2.0 (Evens) or above, and once that bet reaches settlement, the £40 free bets will be credited to your account within 48 hours.

Typically, free bet stakes are separate from winnings, and they must be used before expiry.

2. sport BET Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: Money‑back safety net (real cash refund)
• Offer value: Cash refund up to £100 if your horse loses all chance at the start of a race
• Min odds: Applies to UK & Irish racing only (no minimum odds specified)
• Maximum payout: £100 per single bet (multiples max £1,000)
• Expiration date/offer length: Ongoing during offer period; check current T&Cs
• Min deposit: N/A (offer for funded bets)
• Min stake to claim the bonus: N/A (refund applies to any losing bet that meets criteria)

sport BET’s Cheltenham promotion stands out because it offers real cash refunds rather than free bet tokens. If your horse “loses all chance” at the start of a race, for example, failing to leave the stalls or taking no competitive part, your losing stake is refunded up to £100 in real money.

This strategic feature is valuable for Festival punters who are backing favourites or big‑priced selections, especially in events like the Champion Hurdle or Gold Cup where unpredictable starts can affect outcomes. Refunds in cash mean the money can be withdrawn or used on your next selection, giving you a lot of flexibility and a massively reduced downside risk.

To benefit from this offer, register a sport BET account and fund it with an eligible payment method such as debit card or Apple Pay (credit cards are not accepted), but check the bookmaker’s site for any exclusions like Neteller/Skrill etc. If your qualifying bet loses under the “No Horsing Around” criteria, sport BET will issue a cash refund up to the capped amount.

Unlike free bets, these refunds are credited as real cash upon settlement and are not tied up in bonus wagering requirements, making this an appealing choice for punters who are seeking additional protection on key Cheltenham races.

3. BetVictor Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bet welcome bonus
• Offer value: Bet £10, get £30 in free bets
• Min odds: Evens (2.0) or greater on qualifying bet
• Maximum payout: £30 in free bet tokens
• Expiration date/offer length: Free bets expire 7 days after being awarded
• Min deposit: £10
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10

This BetVictor offer delivers solid value for Cheltenham punters looking to stretch their initial stake across big races such as the Unibet Champion Hurdle or the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

By placing a qualifying bet of £10 at Evens (2.0) or greater, new customers will earn £30 in free bets, which can be used strategically on singles, doubles or other horse racing markets. The ability to split the free bets across several selections adds genuine flexibility to your Festival betting strategy and can improve your chance of locking in decent value across multiple races.

To claim this welcome bonus, start by registering a new BetVictor account and opting into the promotion before placing your first qualifying wager. Make sure your minimum £10 deposit is made with an accepted payment method, debit cards are typically safest as some e‑wallets or prepaid methods may be excluded.

Then place your first bet at min odds of 2.00 within 7 days of registration.

Once that bet has reached settlement, the free bet credits will be added to your account. The free bets must be used within 7 days and are separate from your real cash balance; importantly, the stake on free bets is usually not returned in winnings. Always check the full betting terms and conditions on BetVictor’s site for the most accurate eligibility and usage information.

Several bettors prefer BetVictor around Cheltenham Festival because its free bets can be applied to a range of racing selections and handicap markets, making it a calculated choice for maximising potential returns without overexposing your initial stake.

4. 247Bet Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: 100% matched deposit bonus
• Offer value: 100% up to £50 in bonus funds
• Min odds: Min odds of 3/4 (1.75) required for using bonus funds on sports bets
• Maximum payout: £50 in bonus funds
• Expiration date/offer length: Bonus funds must be used within 30 days of credit
• Min deposit: £20
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £20 deposit and an opt‑in to the offer

247Bet’s welcome bonus gives new UK customers a matched deposit boost of up to £50 on their first deposit. This can be a strategic choice for Cheltenham punters who want extra bankroll to explore multiple races and markets, including outrights and each‑way bets. With the matched funds, you can place real money sports bets on races where odds are at least 1.75 (3/4).

Because the bonus is separate to your cash funds, it increases your available wagering power without immediately stretching your personal stake, helping you to manage the risk across your selections.
To claim the offer, register a new account at 247Bet and opt in to the promotion before you make your first deposit.

Deposit at least £20 using accepted payment methods, again debit cards or bank transfer are usually safest, as some e‑wallets (again like Neteller/Skrill) may be excluded. Once your deposit is matched with bonus funds, these can be used on eligible markets at the required odds.

The bonus carries a 5× wagering requirement on the bonus amount before any winnings can be withdrawn, and only bonus funds count toward this rollover. You also need to make sure that free bets or bonus funds are used within the 30‑day window to avoid forfeiture.

This matched deposit bonus suits punters who favour spreading wagers across several Cheltenham races, because the extra funds help extend your betting strategy with minimal initial risk.

Always check the full terms on 247Bet’s promotions page to understand eligibility restrictions and wagering contributions before placing bets on the festival!

5. Betfred Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bets welcome bonus
• Offer value: Bet £10, get £50 in free bets (3 × £10 sports free bets + 2 × £10 acca free bets)
• Min odds: Evens (2.0) or greater on qualifying bet
• Maximum payout: £50 in free bet tokens
• Expiration date/offer length: Free bets must be used within 7 days of credit
• Min deposit: £10 via Debit Card
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10

Betfred’s welcome offer provides excellent value for Cheltenham punters looking to expand their wagering potential with minimal initial risk. By placing a £10 qualifying bet at minimum odds of Evens (2.0) within 7 days of opening an account, new customers earn £50 in free bets credited within 10 hours of settlement.

The mix of sports free bets and acca free bets can be used strategically across big races like the Cheltenham Gold Cup or Stayers’ Hurdle, giving you flexibility in how you deploy your bonus funds and overall enhancing your return potential.

To claim the offer, you must register a new Betfred account, deposit at least £10 with a debit card, and place your first £10 wager at the required odds. Be sure to opt in if prompted, as this ensures eligibility. Avoid using payment methods that are excluded from the promotion (such as e‑wallets) to make sure your qualifying bet counts.

After your qualifying wager has settled, the free bets will be credited to your account, which you can then use on various horse racing and sports markets during the Cheltenham Festival.

Note that free bet stakes are separate from winnings (they are not returned with your profit) and must be used before they expire after 7 days. Always check the full terms and conditions on Betfred’s site before wagering to confirm precise eligibility requirements and restrictions, because you don’t want to get caught out.

This offer is a calculated choice for punters who are seeking to protect their initial stake while spreading risk across different Cheltenham races. This is particularly useful when combining outright selections and accumulator bets across some of the Festival’s marquee events.

6. bet365 Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bet welcome bonus
• Offer value: Bet £10, get £30 in free bets (Bet Credits)
• Min odds: Qualifying bets must include at least one selection at odds of 1.20 (1/5) or greater for settlement purposes
• Maximum payout: £30 in Bet Credits
• Expiration date/offer length: Bet Credits typically expire 7 days after being added to your account
• Min deposit: £5-£10 (a qualifying deposit of £10 is standard to unlock the full £30)
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10 qualifying bet required to release full Bet Credits

bet365’s Bet £10 Get £30 welcome bonus provides some strong value for Cheltenham punters who are eyeing major races such as the Gold Cup or Queen Mother Champion Chase. Once you have registered and made your first deposit of at least £5 or £10 on an eligible payment method, your qualifying £10 sports bet will trigger £30 in Bet Credits once it settles.

These Bet Credits can then be used across horse racing and other markets, helping you spread your wagering strategy without additional cash outlay.

To claim this offer, create a new bet365 account, complete any required identity checks, and place your first bet of £10 with at least one selection qualifying at minimum odds of 1.20. Avoid excluded payment methods like PayPal or paysafecard unless your identity has been verified with accepted documents, as these may void eligibility.

After your qualifying bet has settled, the £30 in Bet Credits will appear in your account. Bet Credits are non‑withdrawable; however, any winnings from bets placed with them are added to your withdrawable balance. Be sure to use the credits before they expire after roughly 7 days, and remember that the stake of Bet Credits is not included in your returns.

This promotion is again a calculated choice for punters who are looking to balance early Festival bets with minimal risk, allowing you the chance to explore multiple races and markets while managing your initial stake in a careful manner. It also pairs well with Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) race promos that bet365 often runs separately on UK and Irish racing.

7. Sky Bet Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bet welcome bonus
• Offer value: Get £30 in free bets (3 × £10 bet tokens)
• Min odds: Odds of 1/1 (2.0) or greater required for qualifying bet
• Maximum payout: £30 in non‑withdrawable free bets
• Expiration date/offer length: Free bets expire 30 days after being credited
• Min deposit: £5 minimum deposit required
• Min stake to claim the bonus: First qualifying bet of £0.05 or more at required odds

Sky Bet’s welcome offer gives new UK customers another straightforward way to boost their Cheltenham Festival betting funds. After you register a new account and make a small deposit (as low as £5), placing your first bet of £0.05 or more at odds of Evens (2.0) or higher will earn you three £10 free bet tokens.

These tokens can be used on single or each‑way selections across horse racing markets during the Festival, giving you extra wagering power without additional personal stake. The tokens must be used within 30 days, offering flexibility across multiple days of Cheltenham racing.

To qualify for this offer, ensure you sign up via the promotional link, deposit at least £5 using eligible methods (avoid Neteller and Skrill, as again, these will not qualify), and place your first single or each‑way bet on any market with odds of 1/1 or greater.

Only this first bet counts toward the offer. Once that qualifying wager is placed and settled, the £30 in free bets will be credited to your Sky Bet account.

These free bets are non‑withdrawable, and the stake is not returned with any winnings, so plan your usage strategically. For instance, on longer price each‑way selections in major Cheltenham races like the Cheltenham Gold Cup or Champion Hurdle to maximise potential returns.

Always review Sky Bet’s full terms and conditions before wagering to confirm eligibility restrictions and any updates that may have happened after this guide was written!

8. Tote Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bet welcome bonus
• Offer value: Bet £10, receive £20 Tote Credit + £10 Free Sports Bet
• Min odds: Evens (2.0) or greater on qualifying bet (if each‑way then £10 Win + £10 Place)
• Maximum payout: £30 in bonus funds
• Expiration date/offer length: Bonus funds expire 7 days after being credited
• Min deposit: £10
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10 qualifying bet

Tote’s welcome offer gives new customers a combined bonus package worth £30, split into £20 in Tote Credit and a £10 Free Sports Bet, which can be used across both horse racing and other sportsbook markets.

This type of bonus adds strategic value for Cheltenham punters because Tote Credit can be applied to pool betting markets such as Scoop6, Placepot or Win/Place bets, while the free sports bet can be used on fixed‑odds racing selections at the Festival. Receiving both types of bonus funds ups your ability to explore different betting styles within the event.

To claim, you need to register a new Tote account online, make a deposit of at least £10, and then place your first qualifying wager of £10 or more at odds of Evens (2.0) or higher within 7 days of registration. It’s important that your qualifying bet is the first racing pool or sports bet you place.

Once that bet has reached settlement, your £20 Tote Credit and £10 Free Sports Bet will be added to your account, usually within 48 hours, but these must be used within 7 days to avoid expiry. Tote Credit is separate from your cash balance and free bet tokens; the stake on these bonus funds is not included in any winnings.

This offer is again one of those calculated choices for punters who are seeking added value during Cheltenham. Tote Credit can enhance returns in pool betting markets that behave differently to traditional fixed odds, while the free sports bet gives you an extra shot at value on Cheltenham favourites and key races.

Always review the full terms and conditions before placing your qualifying wager to ensure eligibility and that you understand the expiry windows so you don’t lose the benefit of the offer.

9. BetMGM Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bets welcome bonus
• Offer value: Bet £10, get £40 in free bets (4 × £10 tokens)
• Min odds: Evens (2.0) or greater on your qualifying bet
• Maximum payout: £40 in free bet tokens
• Expiration date/offer length: Free bets are valid for 7 days after being credited
• Min deposit: £10
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10 qualifying bet within 7 days of account registration

BetMGM’s welcome offer provides excellent bonus value for Cheltenham Festival punters, giving you £40 in free bets after placing a £10 qualifying wager at min odds of Evens or greater. This bonus is split into 2 × £10 Sports free bets and 2 × £10 Bet Builder free bets, allowing you to spread your bonus credits across multiple racing and sports markets.

The combination of sports and bet builder tokens adds some strategic flexibility, for example, you may use sports free bets on straightforward Cheltenham race selections and bet builder credits for multi‑leg accumulator plays.

To claim this offer, register a new BetMGM account in the UK, deposit at least £10, and ensure you place your first qualifying bet at odds of 2.0 or above within seven days of signing up. Qualifying bets must settle before the free bets are released. Once the qualifying bet reaches settlement, the four £10 free bets will be credited to your account, typically within a short period.

These free bets are non‑withdrawable, and stakes are not included in any returns, so be sure to account for that in your betting strategy. The free bets must be used within 7 days of issuance.

This offer is really solid for punters who are looking to maximise their Festival wagering power without increasing their initial cash exposure. By spreading your free bets across key races like the Championship contests or festival handicaps, you can get more value for your horse racing selections while managing downside risk.

Always check the full BetMGM terms and conditions in your account before placing qualifying bets in case anything has changed between now and the Festival starting.

10. Paddy Power Cheltenham offer

• Offer type: New customer free bet welcome bonus
• Offer value: £50 in Free Bet Builder bets
• Min odds: 2.0 (Evens) on qualifying bet
• Maximum payout: £50 in bet builder free bets
• Expiration date/offer length: Free bets valid for up to 90 days after credit
• Min deposit: £10 via bank, debit card or Apple Pay
• Min stake to claim the bonus: £10 placed on sportsbook markets

Paddy Power’s welcome offer gives UK punters £50 in Free Bet Builder bets once they place their first qualifying £10 wager at odds of Evens (2.0) or greater.

This type of bonus is valuable around Cheltenham Festival because it lets you craft multi‑selection Bet Builder bets across races and markets, increasing your strategic options on favourites or combinations that might not pay out with a single selection.

To claim the offer, register a new Paddy Power account and make a qualifying deposit of at least £10 using eligible payment methods such as bank transfer, debit card or Apple Pay (excluding e‑wallets like Skrill or Neteller where stated, as we’ve already discussed). After that, place your first £10 bet on any sportsbook market at the required odds. Once that bet settles, the £50 in Free Bet Builder bets will be credited to your account.

These free bet builder tokens are non‑withdrawable and must be used before they expire, typically within 90 days, offering plenty of time during and after the Cheltenham Festival to deploy them in an effective way.

Using Free Bet Builder bets strategically can help you target multiple selections in the same race or across events, such as backing a favourite to place and a long‑shot to win in one combined wager. This adds another dimension to your Cheltenham betting strategy while protecting your initial stake, especially useful when balancing risk and return across a busy festival card.

Always review the bookmaker’s full terms and conditions for eligibility, usage details and specific race restrictions before placing qualifying bets.

Special offers from the best Cheltenham bookies

Below is a snapshot of key promotions you can find at major UK bookmakers around the Cheltenham Festival period. These offers range from Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) to money back as cash, risk‑free bets and enhanced odds, all types that add extra value when betting on the Festival’s biggest races.

Some offers apply to new customers only, while others are available to existing account holders.

Bookie	BOG	Money back as cash	Risk-free bets	Enhanced odds
SBK	✅ Bet £10 Get £40 In free bets	❌	❌	❌
sport BET	✅ Get £30 when you bet a tenner	❌	❌	❌
BetVictor	✅ GET £30 IN FREE BETS when you bet £10 on Horse Racing	❌	❌	❌
247Bet	❌	❌	✅ 100% Match Bonus up to £50	❌
Betfred	✅ £50 IN FREE BETS when you bet £10	❌	❌	❌
bet365	✅ Bet £10 Get £30 In Free Bets	❌	❌	❌
Sky Bet	✅ Bet £10 on Horse Racing and get £40 in free bets	❌	❌	❌
Tote	✅ Bet £10 get £30 in Free Bets	❌	❌	❌
BetMGM	✅ Get £40 In Free Bets When you Bet £10	❌	❌	❌
Paddy Power	✅ Bet £5 Get £30 In Free Bets	❌	❌	❌

Most of these customer offers hinge on placing a qualifying stake (commonly £10) at minimum odds such as Evens (2.0) or better. Once that stake settles, free bets or bonus credits are credited to your account.

These can be used via each bookmaker’s app or online platform and often come with expiry windows (for example, 30 days). Look out for race‑specific promotions such as extra places on favourites or enhanced odds that add further value to your Cheltenham wagering to make sure that you don’t miss out on a potential banger!

My favourite Cheltenham betting offer

To choose one of the Cheltenham betting offers was not an easy task. I had to take into consideration what would be best for new customers, and what was best for existing customers, along with what is the best for not only the build-up to Cheltenham but one you can use each day of the 2025 Cheltenham Festival.

And in the end I had to take everything in to the account with 1 though on my mind – what is the best for my bet-slip – and that was Betfred’s £50-pound offer.

This offer is valid for every race at the 2025 Cheltenham Festival, and in my opinion, offers the most long-term value for you the bettor.

Where to watch Cheltenham ?

Cheltenham Festival races are broadcast live across multiple platforms in the UK, making it easy to follow all the action. Here’s where you can watch:

• ITV & ITVX – ITV Racing provides free-to-air coverage of the biggest races, including the Champion Chase on Day 2. You can also stream the races live on ITVX via desktop, mobile, or smart TV.
• Racing TV – A subscription-based service covering all Cheltenham races live, including expert analysis and replays. Available on Sky (Channel 424), Virgin Media (Channel 536), and online streaming.
• Bookmaker Live Streams – Many top bookmakers, including Bet365, Ladbrokes, Paddy Power, and Betfair, offer free live streaming of Cheltenham races if you place a qualifying bet (usually £1 or more).

Biggest Free Bets for Cheltenham

We have also ranked the biggest free bets by the maximum free bet payout you can get by singing up with one of the bookies and gain Cheltenham free bets.

Types of Cheltenham betting offers and free bets

Now I will give you a run-through of some of the most popular free bets and offers for the Cheltenham Festival.

Cheltenham odds on favourites

Betting on odds on favourites at the Cheltenham Festival is not the most appealing bet for an everyday punter. But the likes of Paddy Power, SBK, bet365, sport BET, Betfred, and Sky Bet all offer you an alternative with the ‘Betting Without’ market.

This option gives you the chance to bet on a race without the favourite or chosen horse but at reduced odds. If the odds-on favourite wins, but you come 2nd and have backed in the betting without market, then your bet is a winner.

Money back Cheltenham offer

Each year you will find bookmakers offer Money Back special on Cheltenham races, and this year should be no different.

Paddy Power, Tote, and Betfred from my toplist of bookmakers have previously offered Cheltenham money-back offers.

Check out my toplist for all the money-back Cheltenham offers.

Best odds guaranteed for Cheltenham

For many punters, the best odds guaranteed is a must for the Cheltenham Festival. When you are parting with your hard-earned cash, you want to ensure that you will get the best for your buck, and with BOG, you will always get paid at the best odds.

You would be forgiven to think that all bookmakers offer the best odds guaranteed, but unfortunately, that is not the case.

But I have some of the top bookmakers on my toplist that offer best odds guaranteed for Cheltenham – Paddy Power, Sky Bet, bet365, SBK, Betfred and sport BET all offer best odds guaranteed for the Cheltenham Festival.

Cheltenham extra each-way places

Extra each-way place or enhanced place specials are a massive plus when it comes to the Cheltenham Festival handicap, giving you extra places to play within these competitive handicaps.

I will not know what races will have extra each-way places on the day before/day of, so be sure to check with my top list of bookmakers for more information.

Non-Runner No Bet special for Cheltenham 

The most popular bet when it comes to Cheltenham Festival ante-post betting, the Non-Runner No Bet gives you the security of backing a horse in any of the Cheltenham Festival races under ante-post rules, and if your selection does not run in that race, then you will get you money back, no questions asked.

Bookmakers who offer this from my list are Paddy Power, Tote, bet365, SBK, sport BET, and Sky Bet.

Risk-free bets 

A risk-free bet is very closely related to a free bet, in that you’re essentially placing a bet on the sportsbook without risking anything. Unlike a free bet, you are using your own money to place the wager, but your stakes will be refunded if your selection loses. The refund can either be in cash or in the form of free bet credits upon bet settlement, depending on your operator.

Bet-through-the-card offers

A bet-through-the-card promotion is a popular sign up offer, especially during the big spring racing festivals. They generally require you to place a small bet on the opening race on the card and you will then receive a free bet to use one every subsequent race that day.

During the Cheltenham Festival, you may find that some bookies will give you a free bet for every race that week (27 races) just for betting on the opener! Like with all promotions and offers, eligibility restrictions apply.

Ambassador-related offers and promotions

There are a whole host of ambassadors who promote horse racing betting to bettors. You’ll find that practically every high-profile jockey, trainer and presenter is tied to a bookmaker and lots of operators will offer promotions around their ambassadors. For example, Paddy Power may offer enhanced prices on the rides of their ambassador Harry Cobden during Cheltenham. 

Cheltenham betting offers for existing customers

The Cheltenham Festival is a massive time for bookmakers and they are keen to ensure that they are engaging their existing customers just as much as potential new clients. With that in mind, it is a great time to take advantage of Cheltenham betting offers, with plenty available.

Each bookmaker will offer something different, but you will find things like free bets, enhanced prices, specials and bet boosts to all customers during the week. It’s definitely worth keeping an eye on the promotions page of your operator.

Cheltenham new customer offers

Cheltenham week is one of the biggest sports betting events of the year and it’s very common for bookmakers to tailor their offers around it. This can be in the form of free bets on feature races, or perhaps by enhancing the price of one of the big favourites of the week.

For example, bookmakers may enhance the price of Jonbon to win the Champion Chase to a much bigger price (currently 10/11) to tempt in new customers. Eligibility restrictions and time limits may apply to all offers.

Trifecta bet offers

A trifecta bet is a bet type that involves selecting three horses to finish in the first three places in a race. It is essentially the same as a tricast bet, in that the first, second and third placed horses have to be in the right order for it to be a winner, except a trifecta is only available on the Tote. The bet forms part of a pool and as such it’s unlikely that you will find any trifecta bet offers on the market.

Who won Gold Cup in the previous years?

Year	Winner	Trainer
2024	Galopin Des Champs	W P Mullins
2023	Galopin Des Champs	W P Mullins
2022	A Plus Tard	Henry De Bromhead
2021	Minella Indo	Henry De Bromhead
2020	Al Boum Photo	W P Mullins
2019	Al Boum Photo	W P Mullins
2018	Native River	Colin Tizzard
2017	Sizing John	Jessica Harrington (Ire)
2016	Don Cossack	Gordon Elliott (Ire)
2015	Coneygree	Mark Brackstock

Best Cheltenham betting offers for new and existing customers in 2025

Are you ready for the biggest horse racing action of the year?

Considering that Cheltenham week is one of the biggest of the year for horse racing betting sites, it should come as no surprise that there are some lucrative offers up for grabs. All of the best betting sites are keen to ensure that punters choose to give their bet stake to them and, with that in mind, there’s plenty for both new and existing customers to take advantage of. 

Below, I will give you the best Cheltenham betting offers from my top list. The offer type, how to claim it, and the all-important how to get them.

New customer offers include:

• Sign up offers
• Best odds Guaranteed (BOG)
• Free bets
• Price promise
• Run for your money
• Non-runner no bet
• Price boost
• Cashback

New customers should wait as long as they can for their registration for a Cheltenham betting site, as bookmakers usually wait until right before the meeting before dropping their juiciest offers. One of their favourite offer types is to boost the price of some of the shortest-priced runners of the week to silly proportions, to ensure that you start your betting account with a victory.

Meanwhile, existing customers can take advantage of Cheltenham free bets, with lots of the high street brands keen to ensure they’re betting on one of the big weeks of the year. Keep an eye on your inboxes in your betting accounts, as the bookies will message you throughout the week and in the run-up to the Festival with free bets and offers. On top of this, you can find a full list of offers for both new and existing customers by heading to the promotions page of your bookmaker. 

Cheltenham Free Bets guide

Essentially all free bets are the same, they function the same, meaning that the operator always provides you with free cash to use that you can’t withdraw and must be eligible to claim, and read the Terms and Conditions to see if you can use it. However, there are some variations that spice up the Cheltenham free bets a bit further:

• Deposit Bonus – Bookies offer an extra amount on the initial deposit as free bets to use on Cheltenham betting.
• Enhanced Odds Offers – Boosted odds that you can use your free bets on, however they are capped, usually something quite low – max bet stake is from £1 to £5.
• Matched Free Bets – Cheltenham free bet that matches your initial deposit.
• Money Back Specials – If a certain event happens, such as a specific horse finishing in 2nd place, the bookie will provide you with a free bet valued as the initial stake.
• No Deposit Free Bets – Risk-free bonus that gives you a certain amount of free bets just for registering.
• Risk-Free Bets – A great safety net that gives you back your money, up to a certain amount, when you lose.

The biggest races to bet on at Cheltenham 2025

There are no less than 14 ‘Grade One’ races at the Cheltenham Festival, which is the highest level of race in the National Hunt code of the sport. Essentially, each one of those could headline almost any other card during the year without any issues, though within those 14 races, there are five which stand out from the race. 

These five are known as the ‘Championship’ races, with one race headlining each day apart from Thursday – when there are two! Each acts as the flagship race for different divisions and they are the pinnacle of the sport. The Championship races at the Cheltenham Festival are as follows…

• Tuesday 11th March – Unibet Champion Hurdle (run over two miles)
• Wednesday 12th March – BetMGM Queen Mother Champion Steeple Chase (two miles)
• Thursday 13th March – Ryanair Steeple Chase (two miles and five furlongs) AND the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle (three miles)
• Friday 14th March – Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup Steeple Chase (three miles and two and a half furlongs)

More Cheltenham betting offers for 2025

Terms and conditions of free bets for Cheltenham

Betfred T&Cs

New customers only. Register (excl 05/04/25), deposit with Debit Card, and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility exclusions & T&Cs Apply. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply.

SBK T&Cs

New UK customers only. Min £10 first deposit using Debit Card or Bank Transfer. Place a bet of £10 at min odds of 2.0 and get a £10 Multiple token upon settlement. A £10 Multiple token, a £5 Horse Racing Multiple token and a £5 Football Bet Builder token will be credited after 24 hours. A further £10 Multiple token will be credited 48 hours after the qualifying bet has been settled. Full T&Cs apply, 18+. BeGambleAware.org.

Talksport BET T&Cs

18+ New Customers Only. Opt-in and bet £10+ on horse racing at odds of 3.00+ within 7 days of registration. Get 4x£5 Free Bets for set markets, which expire in 7 days. Offer valid from 10:00 on 03/03/2025 until 17:00 on 14/03/2025. Scroll down for T&Cs. GambleAware.org. Please gamble responsibly

bet365 T&Cs

Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and T&Cs apply.

Paddy Power T&Cs

New Customer Offer. Place a max £1 bet on the Win or Each Way market for Jonson to win the Champion Chase at Cheltenham, Wednesday, March 12th. Winnings paid in cash at normal odds and are topped up to the enhanced price in Free Bets. Free bets are valid 7 days, only deposits with cards & Apple Pay are eligible. Excludes multiples & in-play bets. T&C’s apply. Please gamble responsibly.

Sky Bet T&Cs

NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY. FIRST SINGLE & E/W BET ONLY. ODDS OF 1/1 OR GREATER. 6 X £10 BET TOKENS. FREE BET STAKES NOT INCLUDED IN RETURNS. FREE BETS FOR HORSE RACING ONLY. FREE BETS ARE NON WITHDRAWABLE. FREE BETS EXPIRE AFTER 30 DAYS. ELIGIBILITY RESTRICTIONS AND FURTHER T&CS APPLY.

BetMGM T&Cs

New cust only. 7 days to place a qualifying bet of £10 at Evens (1/1) or above for 2 x £10 Free Bets (min odds 2/1) & 2 x £10 Free Accas (trebles & above at min odds per line 1/2). Expires 14/03/25 23:59. Cannot be used on e-sports & non-UK/IE horse racing. EW bets min £20. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Casumo T&Cs

New customers only. Min stake £2. Min legs 3. Max win £1,000. Min odds 3.0. Max £25 back as a Free Bet on losing bets only. 7 days to use free bet at odds 2.0+. Full T and Cs apply. Play responsibly BeGambleAware.orgT&Cs apply

Tote T&Cs

New customers online only. Eligibility restrictions apply. Only valid with code B10G40 on registration. £10 min qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater across sports or racing (if EW then min £10 Win + £10 Place). Receive £20 Tote Credit, £10 Free Sports Bet and 50 Free Spins on Big Bass Bonanza within 48 hours of qualifying bet settlement. 7-day expiry on free bets & Tote Credit. Your first bet will be your qualifying bet. One per customer. UK & ROI customers only. 18+. Full T&Cs apply. Gambleaware.org.

Star Sports T&Cs

New customers only. Only bets placed on the 16:40 each day at Cheltenham eligible. Matched Free Bet up to £50 on first qualifying selection. Win & E/W Bets qualify. Free Bet credited 10am the following day & expires after 7 days. Full T&Cs apply.

Betfair T&Cs

New Customer offer. Place a min £5 bet, get £20 in Free Bets. Rewards valid for 30 days. Only deposits via cards or Apple Pay will qualify. T&Cs apply. Please Gamble Responsibly

Midnite T&Cs

18+ New UK customers. Bet £10 on accas with 4+ legs, min odds 3/1 (4.0). Get 4x £5 Free Bets and 50 Free Spins, valid for 7 days on selected bets and games only. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Ladbrokes T&Cs

18+ New UK+IRE Customers only. Certain deposit methods & bet types excl. Min first £5 bet within 14 days of account reg at min odds 1/2 to get 4x £5 free bets. Free bets available to use on selected sportsbook markets only. Free bets valid for 7 days, stake not returned. Eligibility restrictions + T&Cs apply.

PricedUp T&Cs

18+. New customers only. Place a minimum £40 bet on any selection with minimum odds of Evens (2.00) and receive a £20 free bet upon bet settlement. Free bet expires after 7 days. GambleAware.org. T&Cs apply.

10bet T&Cs

New bettors; Code SPORT; Wager deposit & bonus 8x; Max qualifying bet stake=initial bonus; Valid 60 days; Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply; T&C apply; 18+

Where to bet on Cheltenham

There a host of different options for betting on the Cheltenham Festival, depending on whether you’re at home or at the track. You can find an extensive list of recommended sites for betting on horse racing in this article, with Betfred coming out on top as our best Cheltenham offer in 2025.

Cheltenham free bets

Lastly, I come the the king of kings when I am talking about amazing Cheltenham betting offers. For existing customers, this will all depend on who you have a betting account with as not all bookmakers will be offering free bets for the Cheltenham Festival.

You can check out my top list above as well as my previous 2025 Cheltenham Betting Offer to find the best free bets for new and existing customers.

What is a Cheltenham free bet offer?

A Cheltenham free bet is a bonus that you as a punter can use to bet on the Cheltenham festival races in the period of 11th to 14th of March 2025. It is an exclusive bonus that works only for Cheltenham races. In its form it is very similar to any other free bet offer, however it is valid only during these 4 days.

Same terms and conditions apply as for other free bets, meaning no withdrawing free bets as cash and same wagering requirements apply, but as always please check the terms and conditions for each free bet you use to check if you are eligible.

How does a Cheltenham free bet work?

A Cheltenham free bet offer is a promotion that I really like, because it is essentially risk-free. I’ll explain why:

1. Decide on which Cheltenham betting site you would like to play
2. Choose the Cheltenham betting offer you like
3. Check eligibility, wagering requirement and Terms and Conditions
4. Claim your Cheltenham free bets
5. Identify the horse you would like to place the bet on
6. Have fun!

If you need help with identifying the winning horse you can take my pick as a place to start. My personal favourite which I’ll be cheering for is definitely Galopin des Champs – not the most original choice, but it’s hard not to admire a horse that’s becoming a living legend before our eyes!

How to claim and use a Cheltenham betting offer – A step-by-step expert guide

Claiming a Cheltenham free bet for a new customer can seem daunting at the best of times, but I have broken it down into easy-to-follow steps*.

1. Sign up – The first thing you need to do is find a Cheltenham betting offer you like.  
2. What you need – Once you have picked which bookmaker you wish to bet with you will need to sign up and open an account with that bookmaker. Normally you will need a valid debit card, bank details, proof of address, your contact details and an ID. You’ll likely have to undergo SMS verification before registering and claiming the bet offer.
3. Find the sign-up page – Once you have chosen your Cheltenham bookmaker with your idea of the best betting offer,  you will find the sign-up area, their landing page, or the top right hand of each bookmaker where you will locate a button marked ‘sign up’ or ‘join now’. Once you have filled out all the necessary details, depositing is next. Check if a promo code is needed for newly registered users.
4. First deposits – Now you will be taken to the deposit page where you will be asked to enter your method of payment. Check for the min deposit requirement and potential payment method exclusions at your chosen bookmaker to avoid disappointment upon making a transaction. Debit card payments are usually not subject to bonus restrictions, while payments with Apple Pay, Neteller, PayPal and others, vary on eligibility. This is for depositing and withdrawing from your account. Once you have completed that, you are now ready to place your first Cheltenham bet.
5. Placing your qualified bet – This is an important step to claim your free Cheltenham bets. Before placing your first bet, be sure to check the promotion T&Cs (all information above) as if your first bet is not placed correctly, you may lose out of your free bets.
6. How to use your free bets – Once your betting account has been credited with your free bets it is straightforward to use. You will find a tab on your betting slip that will say “Use free bet”. Just click on this button to add one of your free bets to your selection. If you come across any issue during this process just contact your chosen bookmakers ‘Live Chat’ where you will be able to speak to a customer service representative.
7. Betting offer period – Once you claim your Cheltenham betting offer or free bet be sure to check the expiry date of the offer and any wagering requirements.

*steps may vary from bookmaker to bookmaker and some require players to enter a bonus code

📖 Read this in-depth guide on how to bet on Cheltenham 📖

How I use my Cheltenham free bets

The Cheltenham Festival offers great value and two of the best bookmakers to use from my experience have to be Sky Bet and bet365. Sky Bet usually go money back on the Supreme (which is the first race of the Festival) and also money back if 2nd or 3rd in the first
race on every day of the Festival. This gives you the opportunity to start on a high or recover some losses if it doesn’t go to plan.

bet365 are also always worth using across the four days as they will have a daily Super Boost and have some of the best odds on offer throughout the week. Couple that with extra place races too there is plenty in the punters’ favour.

Cheltenham 2025 Hub

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Most popular Cheltenham bets

At Cheltenham festival races amidst the thundering hooves and thunderous cheers, betting takes center stage, with a myriad of options tantalizing bettors seeking fortune and glory. From the classic thrill of picking a winner to the intricate strategies of forecasting exacta and trifecta finishes, Cheltenham offers a diverse array of betting opportunities.

Whether you’re all seasoned bettors or newcomers to the sport, join me as I explore the most popular bets at Cheltenham, where every wager carries the promise of adrenaline-fueled moments and the chance to bask in the glory of victory.

• Accumulator bet – Bettors can select multiple horses to win their respective races, with each wager’s possible earnings carrying over to the following choice. You have to win all bets, even if only 1 of the bets is wrong, all your selections are counted as losses.
• Ante-post betting – Bettors who bet in advance can earn a lot as the odds are better. However, they run the risk of having non-runners or changes of horses occuring.
• Each way bet – Players place two bets, one win bet and one place bet. The odds usually aren’t very high.
• Forecast/Exacta bet – This involves bettors predicting the first two horses to finish in a race, in the exact order.
• Lucky 15/31/63 – Players place bets involving multiple selections across different races.
• Place bet – Players bet on a horse to finish in one of the predetermined place positions.
• Racing pool bet – Horse racing pool bet is also known as parimutuel betting or tote betting, where all bets are placed together in a pool, and after deductions (taxes, fees, and house take) the remaining winnings are shared and divided among the players. Racing pool bet is quite popular because its large payouts and and accurate odds representation.
• Tricast/Trifecta bet – Similar to the forecast bet, but you’re predicting the first three horses to finish in the correct order.
• Win bet – Pretty straightforward, bettors can place a bet on who wins 

Cheltenham Betting Strategies

Various betting strategies are available during the Cheltenham races. While some users advise matched betting for assured earnings, others advise taking advantage of deals that provide money back if your horse loses.

If you want to benefit from money-back offers, make sure you’re joined up with various bookmakers who are offering these promotions and that you’re prepared for anything. But it’s important to keep in mind that there is still some risk associated with these tactics, and the odds aren’t always in your favor.

Another strategy is matched betting, which is putting both a lay and a back bet to ensure a profit. This approach guarantees revenues regardless of the result, but it necessitates thorough preparation and process knowledge.

When choosing a betting strategy, it’s critical to evaluate the terms and circumstances of each offer and take into account elements like odds, possible returns, and any wagering requirements.

Top 5 tips for betting at Cheltenham

1. Pace yourself

Considering Tuesday kicks off with no less than four Grade One contests from the first five races – including the Champion Hurdle – it can be easy to get carried away with your budget early on. This is certainly most pertinent with the opener, the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, a fast and frenetic opening contest in which everyone is desperate to get off to a good start.

It’s a very long week and surprises can happen at every turn, so it’s key that you pace yourself and stick to your staking plan and goals to avoid burning out long before the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

2. Course form can be key

There are very few racecourses that can match the test of running at Cheltenham Racecourse, which means that horses with previous course forms can often be a big advantage. Along with the frenetic pace of a Festival race, runners must navigate a stiff jumping test and a legendarily tough hill up the run-in, something which certainly isn’t for everyone.

There have been plenty of top-class horses over the years who just haven’t quite been able to replicate their form on the Cotswolds – Chacun Pour Soi for example – while there are horses like Frodon who just love the place and save their very best form for the big stage. 

3. Look for riders on a roll

This point may be obvious, but momentum is a powerful thing in racing and often the riders who have a good start to the week go on to finish strongly. Look at Rachael Blackmore, there’s no doubt that she’s one of the very best in the weighing room, but she certainly rode the crest of a wave when being crowned leading rider at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021. 

4. Make use of information

We’re lucky to live in an age where sports data has never been stronger and where information is readily available at our fingertips. Whether you are a novice or a more experienced punter, there are so many resources available for review on the internet, which can assist you with your betting decisions. 

Our site offers fantastic resources with things like horse racing data as well as quotes from jockeys, trainers, and owners – which can help you get as round a picture as possible of every runner. On top of this, you can get plenty of juice from the annual Cheltenham Festival preview nights which take place up and down in the country in February and March, with some even streamed on social media for free!

 5. Trust your own judgement

We may have more information than ever at our disposal, but it’s worth pointing out that there is almost too much out there these days. Information is fantastic, but if you divulge the views of every single tipster and pundit out there, you will probably find that a case has been made for every single runner! Let the information work for you and give as good an understanding as possible, but you must then trust your judgment when the time comes to place a bet.

Q&A session about Cheltenham betting offers & free bets

1. What is a Cheltenham free bet, and how can I use it?

A free bet is pretty much what it says on the tin, a bet that doesn’t require you to put any money down. Bookmakers tend to offer free bets to new members to entice them to sign up, but you can also earn free bets by staking a certain amount of money either in a period or on a certain market. Bookmakers also hand out free bets to their members occasionally, particularly during busy periods for sports betting such as during the Cheltenham Festival. Online casinos often offer free bets to their customers, particularly during busy periods such as the Cheltenham Festival, as a way to entice them to try their luck in the casino and potentially win big. This is sometimes accompanied by a casino bonus, funds refund, bonus credit, game tokens, or a variety of exclusive money bet options for various events.

Each bookie site has a different layout, but you should be able to see any free bets in the corner of the screen where your balance is located – or by heading to the balance section of the site once you’re logged in. You may have to activate the free bet there, but once it’s ready to use, you navigate to the market of your choosing and pick out a selection. 

Let’s say you have a £10 free bet for the Champion Hurdle and want to place it on Constitution Hill. If you head to that market and click on the horse, the free bet should appear as a tickable box in your bet slip. Simply activate your free bet, add your stake and press place. Good luck!

2. Where can I get bonuses like free bets for Cheltenham?

If you are new to horse racing betting, Cheltenham week is the perfect time to bag yourself some free bets! Bookmakers are keener than ever to attract your customers during the week, which means that there are some juicy bonuses to be had. Keep your eyes peeled on things like social media for some of the best Cheltenham betting offers, while you can also find some on this very page. 

Meanwhile, existing customers won’t miss out either, as bookmakers give out plenty of free bets and enticing bonuses during the week. Keep an eye on the promotions section of your bookies’ website to keep up with the very latest offers.

3. What is the Cheltenham Racing Festival?

The Cheltenham Festival is the biggest Jumps (or National Hunt) meeting of the season in both the UK and Ireland, for which the biggest names in the sport descend on the Cotswolds. There are 28 races across the four days, with the vast majority of those shown on ITV Racing. This event is one of the few that puts horseracing into the mainstream and you can expect around 250,000 racegoers at Prestbury Park across the four days. 

The feature race of the entire week is the Grade One Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup, which is run over slightly further than three and a quarter miles and is seen as one of the ultimate tests of a racehorse. To win it, a horse must be able to both jump and stay to the highest of standards, while also being able to run at a ‘Championship’ pace. The winner of the Gold Cup will bag themselves a cool quarter of a million pounds in prize money and immortality to boot!

4. When is the Cheltenham festival?

The Cheltenham Festival is a four-day meeting, which runs from Tuesday 11^th March – Friday 14^th March 2025. Each of the four days is headlined by a different race and they are as follows.

• Tuesday 11^th March – Champion Day (Headlined by the Champion Hurdle)
• Wednesday 12^th March – Festival Wednesday (Headlined by the Queen Mother Champion Chase)
• Thursday 13^th March – St Patrick’s Day (Headlined by both the Stayers’ Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase)
• Friday 14^th March – Gold Cup Day (Headlined by the Cheltenham Gold Cup)

5. What is the most profitable bet to make at Cheltenham?

There is no simple way of answering this question, as the price of a horse can reflect the return on all bet types, from singles to multiples. For example, having a £5 treble on three short-priced horses requires more horses to win for it to land, but you will find yourself winning more money with a successful £5 single bet on a 50/1 outsider. 

🧮 Calculate your single bets with the single bet calculator! 🧮

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, in that every winning bet is special! Backing the favourite will see you win more often, but carefully following a staking plan is a good way of upping your chances of a return in the long term. 

If you’re looking for big profit at the Cheltenham Festival, putting several of the horses that you fancy most – ‘bankers’ – into one accumulator can add up quickly. For example, placing a mythical £5 accumulator on Firefox (8/1), So Scottish (10/1) and Bioluminescence (6/1) would return a massive £3,460 should all three horses return home triumphant!

6. Where to bet on Cheltenham?

When it comes to horse racing market, there is almost too much choice and you can find Cheltenham Festival odds offered in a multitude of places. 

However, some are certainly better than others when it comes to Cheltenham Festival betting and my number one recommendation is bet365 – which is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Hills are very competitive when it comes to prices and considering that they are already ‘Non-runner, no bet’ on every single race at the Cheltenham Festival, you can bet with them with peace of mind!

7. What is meant by a favourite horse?

The favourite is the horse which is offered at the shortest odds for each race by the bookmakers. That essentially means that the favourite is the horse which is believed to have the best chance of winning the race – and the shorter price means that the market thinks the horse has a better chance.

For example, a 1/4 favourite would be seen as a horse with a stronger chance of winning than a 4/1 favourite. Meanwhile, if two horses are at the top of the market they are known as ‘joint favourites’ and any more than that they are ‘co-favourites’.  

8. What betting offers can existing customers get during Cheltenham?

Cheltenham Festival week is like Christmas for bettors, as bookmakers try everything in their power to try and secure your custom. Of course, they are going to save things like crazy prices on odds-on favourites and free bets for new customers, but existing customers can often take advantage of offers like boosted odds, price promises, and run-for-your-money offers.

Lots of high street bookmakers will offer free bets throughout the week on certain races, as well as price boosts and the opportunity to earn free bets by staking a certain amount of money.

There will also be lots of things like extra place races, money-back offers and even justice refunds. The best thing to do is keep an eye on the ‘promotions’ and ‘offers’ pages of your bookmakers of choice, as well as keep tabs on their social media pages too. It can also be helpful to have a look at the ’horse racing’ section as well, as that’s where their headline price boosts and offers for the day will live during Cheltenham week. The results of these price boosts and offers will be visible on the homepage of the bookmaker’s website, as well as in the dedicated Cheltenham section, allowing customers to quickly and easily view the results of their bets.

9. Who are the Gold Cup favourites?

Galopin Des Champs is currently the Gold Cup favourite.

10. Do UK bookmakers offer live streaming for Cheltenham?

Yes, most bookmakers will offer live streaming for Cheltenham.

11. Are bet365 giving free bets for Cheltenham?

Yes! bet365 is offering bet £10 and get £30 in free bets for new customers for the 2025 Cheltenham Festival.

12. Who won last year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup?

Galopin Des Champs won last year’s Gold Cup, and the one before.

13. Can you withdraw Cheltenham Free Bets?

No. Cheltenham free bets, or rather all free bets are categorized as promotional credits or bonus tokens that are provided by the bookies are made for betting purposes, and can not be withdrawn. However, winnings made with the free bets are withdrawable. As always there are circumstances for each free bet, so be sure to read the Terms and Conditions.

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About the author

Nick Seddon

A sports journalist with more than a decade of experience, Nick has covered some of the biggest events in sport, from the Grand National and the Epsom Derby in horse racing to Walsall against Wigan Athletic in League One.

Follow Nick on X: @nickseddon_

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to sport. 18+. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chase their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
• Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GambleAware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.

The 2022 Major League Baseball season is in the books. We saw many of the top MLB free agents making impacts with their new teams throughout the season. After witnessing the 2022 MLB lockout shake-up free agency, that won’t be an issue in the 2022-’23 winter frenzy.

Baseball fans can look forward to some of the most exciting talent hitting the open market this offseason. Thanks to the likes of Aaron Judge, Trea Turner, and Rafael Devers not reaching extensions with their clubs, we’ll see huge contracts signed with plenty of big names on the move. And some have already reached deals for 2023.

Bookmark this page for updates throughout the season. Our rankings of the best MLB free agents in 2023 will be updated throughout the shopping spree.

Related: Highest paid MLB players in 2022

When does MLB free agency start?

MLB free agents could already sign with a new team five days after the World Series wrapped up. The five-day period gives teams an exclusive window to negotiate with their impending free-agent talent.

RELATED: Listen to Sportsnaut’s MLB podcast ‘Replacement-Level Podcast

There is one new potential rule that could significantly impact many of the MLB free agents next winter. If the MLB and players’ union agree on a MLB World Draft – including international players – the league would eliminate draft-pick compensation tied to any players who reject a qualifying offer. It should be a boost for players, with interested teams no longer factoring in the negative of losing a draft pick for signing a free agent.

Will there be a qualifying offer in MLB in 2023?

After Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association failed to agree on a 2023 international draft, MLB free agency this winter will once again be impacted by the qualifying offer system.

Here are the MLB free agents ineligible for a qualifying offer in 2023. Importantly, any player dealt before the MLB trade deadline is automatically no longer eligible for the qualifying offer.

• José Abreu, Chicago White Sox
• Carlos Correa, Minnesota Twins
• Noah Syndergaard, Philadelphia Phillies

The following 2023 MLB free agents declined their qualifying offers

• Willson Contreras, Chicago Cubs
• Xander Bogaerts, Boston Red Sox
• Aaron Judge, New York Yankees
• Jacob deGrom, New York Mets
• Carlos Rodón, San Francisco Giants
• Anthony Rizzo, New York Yankees
• Nathan Eovaldi, Boston Red Sox
• Trea Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Chris Bassitt, New York Mets
• Brandon Nimmo, New York Mets
• Dansby Swanson, Atlanta Braves

The following players have accepted their qualifying offers.

• Joc Pederson, San Francisco Giants
• Martin Perez, Texas Rangers

MLB qualifying offer 2022

Major League Baseball announced the cost of the MLB qualifying offer will be $19.65 million this offseason. It’s a $1.25 million increase, a direct result of revenue climbing across the league and the salaries for the highest-paid MLB players. The price of the qualifying offer dropped to $17.8 million in 2019, climbed in 2020 and then dipped in 2021 after the COVID-19 pandemic greatly impacted MLB revenue.

• MLB qualifying offer 2022: $19.65 million
• MLB qualifying offer 2021: $18.4 million
• MLB qualifying offer 2020: $18.9 million
• MLB qualifying offer 2019: $17.8 MLB

What is a qualifying offer in MLB?

A qualifying offer is a one-year offer MLB teams make to impending free agents. If a player has previously been offered the qualifying offer in their career or they were traded mid-season before becoming an MLB free agent, they aren’t eligible for the qualifying offer. If the QO is rejected, the club can receive a compensatory draft pick for the loss of that player in MLB free agency.

The qualifying offer in MLB is based on the mean salary of the 125 highest paid players in MLB.

Who are the best MLB free agents in 2023?

We saw some of the best players in baseball hit the open market in the 2021-’22 free-agent class. Incredibly, the pool of MLB free agents in 2023 will be even better.

Let’s dive into our top free agents in MLB this offseason.

Stats courtesy Baseball Reference and FanGraphs

1. Aaron Judge, outfielder, New York Yankees

• Aaron Judge stats (2022): 62 home runs, 131 RBI, 1.111 OPS, .311/.425/686, 211 OPS+, 133 runs scored

Aaron Judge is easily the best player available in MLB free agency this winter. He is coming off a contract year for the ages, setting the single-season American League home run record, nearly winning the Triple Crown all while carrying one of the best teams in MLB. Age is no longer much of a concern for franchises, Judge is a superstar on the field and one of the most marketable players away from it. It easily makes him No. 1 in the MLB free agency rankings and there are going to be marquee suitors lining up for him.

• Potential Landing Spots: San Francisco Giants, Texas Rangers, New York Yankees, New York Mets

2. Jacob deGrom, pitcher, New York Mets – 5-year, $185M w/ TEX

• Jacob deGrom stats (2022): 3.08 ERA, 102 strikeouts, 0.75 WHIP, 5.6 H/9 in 64.1 innings pitched

The Texas Rangers land one of the top MLB free agents for the second consecutive year, pulling Jacob deGrom away from the New York Mets. The two-time Cy Young Award winner was targeting a multi-year deal worth at least $40 million. However, the Rangers’ willingness to provide him with a five-year deal averaging $37 million per season that includes a sixth-year option to maximize at $222 million, won out.

Texas desperately needed an ace and it just landed the best pitcher in baseball. While it’s undeniable that deGrom carries durability concerns, he is undeniably one of the best players of his generation when healthy. As long as he is on the mound, Texas will be in a great position to win.

• Potential Landing Spots: Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Texas Rangers

3. Trea Turner, shortstop, Los Angeles Dodgers – 11-year, $300M w/PHI

• Trea Turner stats (2022): .298/.343/.466, 21 home runs, 27 steals, 6.3 fWAR, .809 OPS

Even in a down season by his own standards, Trea Turner was one of the best players in MLB. He moved back to shortstop and played outstanding defense, all while delivering his second consecutive 20-20 season with a combined 48 home runs + stolen bases.

Turning 30 in June, Turner is one of the best shortstops in baseball and had a variety of suitors to choose from. He ended up agreeing to an 11-year, $300 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he’ll presumably be their leadoff hitter, providing speed on the basepaths. It’s a massive coup for the Phillies.

• Potential Landing Spots: Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs

4. Carlos Rodón, pitcher, San Francisco Giants

• Carlos Rodón stats (2022): 2.88 ERA, 33.4% strikeout rate, .200 batting average allowed, 1.03 WHIP, 14.1% Swinging Strike rate

The San Francisco Giants and Carlos Rodón both took a gamble in free agency. Fast forward to the end of the 2022 MLB season and Rodón is coming out on top. He proved he could stay healthy over a full season, eclipsing 170 innings for the first time in his career. Rodón must now be considered one of the best starting pitchers in baseball and he’s even more valuable as a southpaw. Turning 30 in December, Rodon easily qualifies as one of the best MLB free agents in 2023 and he would slide in perfectly as the ace for a variety of teams.

• Potential Landing Spots: San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees

5. Justin Verlander, pitcher, Houston Astros – two-year, $86M w/NYM

• Justin Verlander stats (2022): 1.75 ERA, 9.51 K/9, 0.62 HR/9, .184 batting average allowed, 0.83 WHIP in 175 innings

A few teams were willing to roll the dice on Justin Verlander in MLB free agency last winter, even as he returned from Tommy John surgery. He stayed with the Houston Astros and delivered another Cy Young-caliber season, doing it as a 39-year-old in his first season back from TJS. Verlander, 40 in February, has proven that his age won’t impact his play on the mound and is sure to receive a contract worth $30-$40 million annually.

It turns out the Mets losing deGrom, only motivated them to land one of baseball’s most accomplished pitchers in recent times. Verlander moving to the Big Apple helps stabilize a rotation that’s already one of baseball’s best and will serve as a direct replacement for their former ace.

• Potential Landing Spots: Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, San Francisco Giants

6. Carlos Correa, shortstop, Minnesota Twins

• Carlos Correa stats (2022): .291/.336/.467, 22 home runs, .834 OPS, 140 wRC+, 4.4 fWAR

The Minnesota Twins won’t have any regrets over the Carlos Correa contract, even after missing the playoffs. The All-Star shortstop played extremely well, participating in 139-plus games for the second consecutive season. The 28-year-old shortstop will exercise his opt-out clause, becoming one of the top MLB free agents once again. There might be a smaller number of suitors compared to Trea Turner and Aaron Judge, but Correa’s production the past two seasons and his history of success in October will attract contenders.

• Teams to Watch: Chicago Cubs, Minnesota Twins, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers

7. Xander Bogaerts, shortstop, Boston Red Sox

• Xander Bogaerts stats (2022): .307/.377/.456, 15 home runs, 73 RBI, 134 wRC+, 6.1 fWAR

The Boston Red Sox never seemed to prioritize a Xander Bogaerts contract extension in 2022 and it will prove costly. The 30-year-old shortstop delivered a career-best season, combining high-end defense at a valuable position with remarkable consistency and run production at the plate. Even with the qualifying offer attached to him, Bogaerts is one of the best all-around players available in MLB free agency and plenty of clubs will be willing to do what Boston wouldn’t.

• Potential landing spots: Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals

8. Dansby Swanson, shortstop, Atlanta Braves

• Dansby Swanson stats (2022): .277/.329/.447, .776 OPS, 115 OPS+, 25 home runs, 2.0 dWAR, 5.7 bWAR

Many thought the Atlanta Braves would look to replace Dansby Swanson with a shortstop upgrade in the 2023 offseason. Now, the organization might wonder if it can afford Swanson. Turning 28 in February, the Georgia native earned his first All-Star selection in 2022 and became a vital part of the infield and lineup. Contract negotiations are underway and it wouldn’t be a surprise if a deal gets done, but we’ll keep Swanson in our MLB free agency rankings until a deal is official.

9. Chris Bassitt, starting pitcher, New York Mets

• Chris Bassitt stats (2022): 3.42 ERA, 0.94 HR/9, 22.4% strikeout rate, .233 BAA, 1.14 WHIP in 181.2 innings pitched

After enjoying a breakout All-Star season with the Oakland Athletics in 2021, Chris Bassitt’s following it up with a strong effort with the New York Mets as well. After proving his durability in the past two seasons while having an above-average strikeout rate and WHIP. He is best suited to land in a more pitcher-friendly environment with quality defense around him, but the team that lands Bassitt this winter will get one of the most underrated MLB free agents in 2023.

10. Brandon Nimmo, outfielder, New York Mets (Previously: 13)

• Brandon Nimmo stats (2022): .273/.367/.433, 16 home runs, 5.4 fWAR, 91st percentile Outs Above Average

New York Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo proved for the second consecutive year that he is an above-average regular. Coming off a 3.3 fWAR season in 2021, Nimmo has now delivered his first double-digit homer season since 2018 and he is even better defensively in the outfield. Entering his age-30 season next year, Nimmo’s defensive ability and consistent production at the plate definitively make him one of the 15 best MLB free agents in 2023.

11. Edwin Díaz, closer, New York Mets – Re-signs on 5-year, $102 million contract

• Edwin Díaz stats (2022): 1.31 ERA, 17.13 K/9, 32 saves, .158 batting average allowed, 0.84 WHIP

Edwin Díaz delivered one of the best seasons ever from a closer entering MLB free agency. Striking out 50.2% of the batters he faced, only allowing 18 walks across 235 batters in 62 innings and dominating in almost every instance he took the mound. It was a season for the ages, easily making Díaz the best closer in MLB.

While it might seem surprising that Diaz re-signed before officially becoming a free agent, this is a record-setting contract. Once the deal is official, Edwin Diaz becomes the highest-paid closer in MLB history both in AAV ($20.4 million) and total value ($102 million), blowing past the previous marks set by Raisel Iglesias ($14.5M AAV, $58 million total).

12. Clayton Kershaw, pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers — Re-signs one-year contract

• Clayton Kershaw stats (2022): 2.28 ERA, 0.71 HR9, .205 batting average allowed, 0.94 WHIP across 126.1 innings

It all comes down to health with Clayton Kershaw. When he is on the mound and throwing without issue, the 34-year-old can still compete for the Cy Young Award. He’s a surefire Hall of Famer with the presence a team wants in the clubhouse and an ability to mentor young pitchers. We, just like MLB teams next offseason, worry about his ability to stay healthy over a full season and in October. That’s what pushes him further down the list among the top MLB free agents.

We’ve already seen it in 2022. After looking like a Cy Young candidate for a few weeks, a lower back/SI joint injury sidelined Kershaw and he went back on the IL once again with a back injury. These are the things that force him to move down in the MLB free agent rankings, but the strong return post-injury helped push him back up.

13. Willson Contreras, catcher, Chicago Cubs

• Willson Contreras stats (2022): 22 home runs, 55 RBI, .243/.349/.466, .815 OPS, 3.3 fWAR

There’s a reason the Philadelphia Phillies wouldn’t allow J.T. Realmuto, one of the top MLB free agents in 2020, to leave. Look at the catching market this past offseason, the options were extremely underwhelming. Heck, James McCann landed a four-year, $40 million contract two years ago.

Enter Willson Contreras. A two-time All-Star selection, the 29-year-old ranks third among catchers in FanGraphs’ Wins Above Replacement (6.4) and has the second-highest OPS (.863) since 2019. He’s made strides behind the plate, too. At a time when so many teams are struggling at catcher, Contreras will be hitting free agency at the perfect time.

There is one reason for concern with Contreras. Because he’ll likely receive the qualifying offer, the team signing him must take a hit. We also saw at the MLB trade deadline that there isn’t as much interest in Contreras as expected. By the time offseason rankings of the top MLB free agents roll around, he could drop further.

14. José Abreu, first base, Chicago White Sox – signed w/ HOU

• Jose Abreu stats (2022): .304/.378/.446, 15 home runs ,361 wOBA, 137 wRC+, 3.9 fWAR

José Abreu is headed to the Houston Astros, joining with the reigning World Series champion in the first huge splash of MLB free agency. Houston not only lands another outstanding veteran who will gel perfectly in its clubhouse, it also injects a massive boost into the lineup.

In the 2022 regular season, the Astros’ first basemen ranked 23rd in batting average) while finishing 29th in OBP (.276) and wRC+. While Houston still had one of the best lineups in MLB, its situation at first base was as bad as teams like the Los Angeles Angels and Pittsburgh Pirates.

Now, Abreu joins the best team in the American League. While he only hit 15 home runs this past season, his advanced metrics show there is still plenty of power to tap into. He’ll likely spend more time at designated hitter in 2023, but this is a huge addition for Houston.

15. Trey Mancini, first base, Houston Astros

• Try Mancini stats (2022): .239/.319/.391, 101 OPS+, 18 home runs 63 RBI

Being traded to the Houston Astros might have added millions of dollars in value to Trey Mancini heading into MLB free agency. The changes to Oriole Park at Camden Yards ruined his power totals, but landing in a more hitter-friendly ballpark is demonstrating that this can still a slugger capable of hitting 25-plus home runs with a .330 OBP. A beloved presence in the clubhouse with the versatility to play three positions (1B, LF, RF), Mancini could be one of the most underrated MLB free agents in 2022-’23.

16. Adam Wainwright, starting pitcher, St. Louis Cardinals

• Adam Wainwright stats (2022): 3.71 ERA, 11-12 record, .259 BAA, 1.28 WHIP in 191.2 innings

Heading into MLB free agency 2023, Adam Wainwright is one of our favorite MLB free agents. He explained that an awful September (7.22 ERA) is all due to a mechanical problem that he didn’t see until at the end of the season. Considering he had a 3.09 ERA in 163 innings prior to September, we’ll bet on him making that correction. The St. Louis Cardinals will be overwhelming favorites to re-sign him, especially since it will be his last season.

• Prediction: Adam Wainwright re-signs with St. Louis Cardinals

17. Anthony Rizzo, first base, New York Yankees — Re-signs on two-year, $34 million contract

• Anthony Rizzo stats (2022): .224/.338/.480, 32 home runs, 10.6% walk rate, .352 wOBA, 132 wRC+, 2.4 fWAR

Returning to the New York Yankees worked out quite nicely for Anthony Rizzo. While he does hold a $16 million player option, declining it and becoming one of the best MLB free agents available at first base seems inevitable. The 33-year-old is still drawing walks at a double-digit rate with 30-plus home runs. Some nagging injuries raise concerns and the .217/.308/.462 slash line in August and September push him further down the MLB free agency rankings. However, he showed enough this year to earn a larger contract.

18. Andrew Benintendi, outfielder, New York Yankees

• Andrew Benintendi stats (20220: .304/.373/.399, 122 wRC+, 54 runs scored, 2.8 fWAR

While Andrew Benintendi hasn’t quite lived up to expectations since joining the Yankees’ lineup, this is still an above-average player. He’s demonstrated the ability to consistently reach base and he’s not a defensive liability in left field. The broken hamate bone that ended Benintendi’s season shouldn’t be an issue for him in MLB free agency, with teams confident that he will be fully recovered and hitting without issue in spring training. He should be one of the more undervalued free agents this winter.

19. Jameson Taillon, starting pitcher, New York Yankees — Signed with the Cubs

• Jameson Taillon stats (2022): 3.91 ERA, 3.94 FIP, 7.66 K/9, .243 BAA, 1.13 WHIP

Similar to his teammate Luis Severino teams interested in Jameson Taillon will have some questions regarding his durability. The 31-year-old has already undergone Tommy John surgery twice in his career, a red flag as he plays into his 30s. However, he has covered more than 300 innings since 2021 and he’s performed like a dependable mid-rotation starter.

20. Kodai Senga, starting pitcher, Japan

• Kodai Senga stats (2022): 1.94 ERA< 156-49 K-BB across 144 IP

While Kodai Senga might not be the best pitcher in Japan, he is the top international free agent in 2022-’23. The 30-year-old posted the second-best ERA in the Pacific League and he brings some serious heat with the fastball. The combination of track record and stuff should attract interest from a number of teams seeking a No. 3 starter, just with risk that he eventually moves to the bullpen.

21. Tyler Anderson, starting pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers — Signed with Angels on 3-year, $39M contract

• Tyler Anderson stats (2022): 2.57 ERA, 3.31 FIP, .218 BAA, 1.00 WHIP

Landing with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2022 made Tyler Anderson millions of dollars. A journeyman starter prior to that point, he became an All-Star selection in his age-32 season. Now hitting MLB free agency at 33, Anderson (.256 BABIP vs .287 career BABIP) is doubtful to ever reach these highs again. However, he can be an above-average No. 4 starter.

The Angels will gladly add Anderson to a pitching staff in need of some reinforcements. While he may not be the best option on the market, Anderson is a great addition for a team that’s underwhelmed despite having two of the best players in baseball.

22. Mitch Haniger, outfielder, Seattle Mariners — Signed with the Giants

• Mitch Haniger stats (2022): .246/.333/.429, 11 home runs, 113 wRC+ in 57 games

Mitch Haniger is a dependable hitter when he’s in the lineup, availability is just the issue. Turning 34 in December, the right-handed slugger hit 39 home runs in 2021 with a 121 wRC+ and he’s been an above-average hitter when not on the injured list this year. He’s the perfect player for a playoff team to offer a sizable one-year contract to, playing him in the corner outfield and as the designated hitter.

• Prediction: Mitch Haniger signs with San Francisco Giants

23. Nathan Eovaldi, pitcher, Boston Red Sox

• Nathan Eovaldi stats (2022): 3.87 ERA, 8.48 K/9, .262 BAA, 18% K-BB rate in 109.1 innings

Notice a theme among our top MLB free agents for the 2022-’23 offseason? Many of the best players expected to be available have some medical red flags. When available to pitch, Nathan Eovaldi’s stuff is electric and the righty isn’t losing his fastball. He threw 182.1 innings last season, but it was the first time he cracked 120-plus innings since 2016. The time spent on the IL and diminished velocity further highlight the concerns with Eovaldi.

24. Noah Syndergaard, starting pitcher, Philadelphia Phillies

• Noah Syndergaard stats (2022): 3.94 ERA, 2.07 BB/9, 11.3% K-BB rate, .260 BAA

One of the top starting pitchers in MLB free agency a year ago, the Los Angeles Angels gamble on Noah Syndergaard didn’t work out. The electric velocity from the 30-year-old righty isn’t coming back, he’s not the Cy Young candidate we saw in his glory years. Now, Syndergaard wins with command and allowing weak contact. He performed like a mid-rotation starter in the regular season with the Phillies (4.12 ERA, 13.7% K rate) and that’s how he should be valued among the 2023 MLB free agents.

25. Jurickson Profar, utility, San Diego Padres

After making his MLB debut in 2012 as a 19-year-old, Jurickson Profar finally gets to hit the open market a decade later. He delivered his best season in 2023, posting a career-high 2.5 fWAR with a 110 wRC+, 14 home runs and 82 runs scored. Capable of playing first base, second base and the corner outfield, Profar’s versatility and switch-hitting should be the driving force behind teams’ interest in him this winter.

26. Michael Conforto, outfielder, free agent

Fully recovered from shoulder surgery in April, outfielder Michael Confort will have an opportunity to turn things around this winter. While he loses a valuable season of playing time, turning 30 in March, the left-handed hitter will still generate plenty of interest. Conforto slashed .232/.344/.384 with a 106 wRC+ and 14 home runs in 125 games during the 2021 season. Prior to that, he delivered 25-plus home runs in each year from 2017-’19. Considering the Houston Astros pursued him late in August, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they were among the teams after him in MLB free agency.

27. Andrew Heaney, starting pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers — signed with Rangers on 2-year deal worth $25M

• Andrew Heaney stats (2022): 3.10 ERA< 3.75 FIP, 13.62 K/9, .212 BAA, 1.09 WHIP in 72.2 innings

Longevity and availability are what drive down Andrew Heaney in the MLB free agent rankings. He thrived on the mound in 2022, striking out 35.5% of batters with a phenomenal 29.4% K-BB rate. When you generate an All-Star caliber 16.8% Swinging Strike rate and locate pitches well (2.35 BB/9), it’s a good sign that Heaney possesses the stuff to be a high-end starter. However, he threw just 129.2 innings in 2021 and 72.2 innings this past season. A one-year deal seems likely, maybe even following in the footsteps of Carlos Rodón last year.

28. Michael Brantley, outfielder, Houston Astros

Michae Brantley missed a majority of the 2022 MLB season due to a shoulder injury, later undoing surgery to repair a torn labrum. It’s pushed him down MLB free agent rankings, but the 35-year-old will be healthy for spring training. A great presence in the clubhouse with a .303/.365/.430 slash line over the last two seasons, Brantley represents an above-average No. 3 outfielder for a young team who needs experience to help a youth-filled roster.

29. Kenley Jansen, closer, Atlanta Braves

• Kenley Jansen stats (2022): 3.34 ERA, 3.21 FIP, 11.95 K/9, .191 BAA, 1.05 WHIP, 41 saves

Heading into 2023, All-Star closer Kenley Jansen is just nine shaves shy of the 400-mark. As long as he stays healthy – heart issues have forced multiple IL stints in recent years – he could realistically surpass Francisco Rodriguez (437) to grab fourth place on the all-time saves list. He is still an excellent closer whose stats were brought down by an awful August (4.82 ERA).

30. Zach Eflin, starting pitcher, Philadelphia Phillies — Signed with the Tampa Bay Rays

• Zach Eflin stats (2022): 4.04 ERA, 3.56 FUP, 1.78 BB/9, .239 BAA, 1.12

Zach Eflin could be one of those MLB free agents who flies under the radar when he is signed and then looks like a steal in 2023. The 28-year-old righty only threw 75.2 innings this past season, giving him just over 180 in the last two seasons, posting a respectable 4.04 ERA. What stands out about Eflin is that he held opponents to a .239 batting average, only walked 4.8% of batters and he did an excellent job keeping the ball in the yard. The Phillies will prioritize re-signing him, but there will be lots of competition.

31. J.D. Martinez, designated hitter, Boston Red Sox

• J.D. Martinez stats (2022): .274/.341/.448, 119 wRC+, 16 home runs, 62 RBI in 139 games

Teams essentially know what they are getting from J.D. Martinez at this point. The 30-plus homer seasons are likely gone for the right-handed slugger and his profile is strictly limited to designated hitter, unless a club is willing to accept a major liability in the corner outfield. Turning 36 in August, Martinez should be looking at a two-year contract to close out his career.

32. Martin Pérez, starting pitcher, Texas Rangers — Accepted qualifying offer from Rangers

• Martin Pérez stats (2022): 2.89 ERA, 3.27 FIP, .239 BAA, 1.26 WHIP across 196.1 IP

Coming off two below-average seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Martin Pérez delivered his best season ever for the Texas Rangers. After never posting a sub-3.5 ERA in his MLB career, Perez registered a 2.89 ERA across 32 starts this season. Perez has decided to accept the team’s qualifying offer, keeping the veteran hurler around for another season.

33. Josh Bell, first base, San Diego Padres — Signed w/ CLE

• Josh Bell stats (2022): .266/.362/.422, 17 home runs, 71 RBI, 123 wRC+

Call it the tale of two seasons for Josh Bell. He crushed the ball in the first half with the Washington Nationals, slashing .301/.384/.493 with a 143 wRC+ and 14 home runs in 437 plate appearances. Things spiraled with the San Diego Padres, highlighted by a .192/.316/.271 slash line. It definitely delivered a blow to his place in our MLB free agent rankings, but Bell’s history of production warrants a multi-year contract.

34. Taijuan Walker, starting pitcher, New York Mets — Signed with the Phillies

It all comes down to health for Taijuan Walker. The 30-year-old compiled a 3.49 ERA in 157.1 innings this past season, delivering 29 starts for the second consecutive year. He is still averaging 93.5 mph on his fastball, generating plenty of soft contact (17.4%). A two-year contract seems reasonable, especially with the Mets.

35. Justin Turner, third base, Los Angeles Dodgers

• Justin Turner stats (2022): .278/.350/.438, 123 wRC+, 13 home runs, 9.4% BB rate

While Justin Turner saw his home run output cut in half in comparison to the 2021 season (27 home runs), he still remained an excellent threat near the heart of. batting order. Heading into his age-38 season, Turner still possesses an excellent eye at the plate. He’s only a designated hitter, but this is an attractive options for several teams seeking a cheaper bat with lots of experience.

36. Sean Manaea, starting pitcher, San Diego Padres

Sean Manaea looked like he could be one of the best starting pitchers available in MLB free agency before the summer. Across his first 14 starts with the San Diego Padres, Manaea compiled a 3.92 ERA with a 1.14 WHIP and .210 batting average allowed. After July 1, he posted a 6.16 ERA and opponents hit .293 off him. Considering his past accomplishments (3.91 ERA in 2021), someone will take a chance on the 31-year-old southpaw as a No. 4 starter with upside.

37. Jean Segura, infielder, Philadelphia Phillies

38. Aroldis Chapman, reliever, New York Yankees

39. Michael Wacha, starting pitcher, Boston Red Sox

40. Ross Stripling, pitcher, Toronto Blue Jays

41. Joc Pederson, outfielder, San Francisco Giants — Accepted qualifying offer

42. Kevin Kiermaier, outfielder, Tampa Bay Rays

43. Robert Suarez, reliever, San Diego Padres — Re-signed with the Padres

44. José Quintana, starting pitcher, St. Louis Cardinals

45. Craig Kimbrel, closer, Los Angeles Dodgers

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2023 MLB free agents by position

Here’s a quick look at the top MLB free agents in 2023 by position.

Starting Pitchers

• Jacob deGrom, New York Mets – Signed with Texas Rangers
• Carlos Rodón, San Francisco Giants –
• Nathan Eovaldi, Boston Red Sox –
• Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers — Re-signed with Dodgers
• Chris Bassitt, New York Mets –
• Noah Syndergaard, Philadelphia Phillies
• Luis Severino, New York Yankees – $15 million club option exercised
• Adam Wainwright, St. Louis Cardinals –
• Sonny Gray, Minnesota Twins – $12 million club option exercised
• Andrew Heaney, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Mike Clevinger, San Diego Padres – Signed with White Sox
• Michael Wacha, Boston Red Sox

Catchers

• Willson Contreras, Chicago Cubs
• Omar Narvaez, Milwaukee Brewers
• Gary Sánchez, Minnesota Twins
• Mike Zunino, Tampa Bay Rays
• Tucker Barnhart, Detroit Tigers
• Yadier Molina, St. Louis Cardinals – Retiring
• Christian Vazquez, Houston Astros
• Jason Castro, Houston Astros
• Curt Casali, San Francisco Giants
• Martin Maldonado, Houston Astros – Vesting option
• Austin Hedges, Cleveland Guardians
• Roberto Pérez, Pittsburgh Pirates
• Kevin Plawecki, Boston Red Sox
• Stephen Vogt, Oakland Athletics
• Kurt Suzuki, Los Angeles Angels
• Andrew Knapp, Sam Francisco Giants
• Sandy León, Cleveland Guardians

First Base

• Jose Abreu, Chicago White Sox – Signs with Houston Astros
• Trey Mancini, Houston Astros
• Anthony Rizzo, New York Yankees – Re-signed with Yankees for two years, $40 million
• Yuli Gurriel, Houston Astros
• Miguel Sano, Minnesota Twins – $14 million club option, $2.75 million buyout
• Josh Bell, San Diego Padres
• Brandon Belt, San Francisco Giants – Weighing retirement
• Jesus Aguilar, Baltimore Orioles
• Carlos Santana, Seattle Mariners
• Eric Hosmer, San Diego Padres – $13 million player option (3 years, $39 million remaining)

Second Base

• Kolten Wong, Milwaukee Brewers – $10 million club option, $2 million buyout
• Enrique Hernandez, Boston Red Sox
• Adam Frazier, Seattle Mariners
• Josh Harrison, Chicago White Sox – Club option
• Rougned Odor, Baltimore Orioles
• Aledmys Diaz, Houston Astros
• Jean Segura, Philadelphia Phillies – $17 million club option, $1 million buyout
• Cesar Hernandez, Washington Nationals
• Donovan Solano, Cincinnati Reds

Shortstop

• Trea Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers – Signed 11-year, 300 million contract with PHI
• Xander Bogaerts, Boston Red Sox – $20 million player option (4 years, $80 million remaining)
• Carlos Correa, Minnesota Twins – $35.1 million player option (2 years, $70.2 million remaining)
• Tim Anderson, Chicago White Sox – $12.5 million club option, $1 million buyout
• Dansby Swanson, Atlanta Braves
• Didi Gregorius, Philadelphia Phillies
• Jonathan Villar, Seattle Mariners
• Andrelton Simmons, Chicago Cubs
• Elvis Andrus, Chicago White Sox
• Marwin Gonzalez, New York Yankees

Third Base

• Justin Turner, Los Angeles Dodgers – $16 million club option, $2 million buyout
• Evan Longoria, San Francisco Giants – $13 million club option, $5 million buyout
• Nolan Arenado, St. Louis Cardinals – $35 million player option
• Jonathan Villar, Seattle Mariners
• Jake Lamb, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Aledmys Diaz, Houston Astros

Outfield

• Aaron Judge, New York Yankees
• Joey Gallo, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Mitch Haniger, Seattle Mariners
• Michael Brantley, Houston Astros
• Brandon Nimmo, New York Mets
• Enrique Hernandez, Boston Red Sox
• Cody Bellinger, Los Anglees Dodgers — signed with the Chicago Cubs
• A.J. Pollock, Chicago White Sox – $10 million player option, $5 million buyout
• Wil Myers, San Diego Padres – $20 million club option, $1 million buyout
• Kevin Kiermaier, Tampa Bay Rays – $13 million club option, $2.5 million buyout
• Charlie Blackmon, Colorado Rockies – $10 million player option
• Jackie Bradley Jr, Boston Red Sox
• Andrew McCutchen, Milwaukee Brewers
• Tommy Pham, Boston Red Sox – $6 million mutual option, $1.5 million buyout
• Joc Pederson, San Francisco Giants — accepted tender from the Giants
• Kole Calhoun, Texas Rangers – $5.5 million club option

Designated Hitter

• José Abreu, Chicago White Sox
• Nelson Cruz, Washington Nationals – $16 million mutual option
• J.D. Martinez, Boston Red Sox
• Matt Carpenter, New York Yankees
• Daniel Vogelbach, New York Mets – $1.5 million club option

Relief Pitchers

• Aroldis Chapman, New York Yankees
• Edwin Díaz, New York Mets – Re-signed w/ NYM, five years, $102 million
• Kenley Jansen, Atlanta Braves
• Craig Kimbrel, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Taylor Rogers, San Diego Padres
• Blake Treinen, Los Angeles Dodgers
• Nick Martinez, San Diego Padres — Re-signed with Padres
• Will Smith, Atlanta Braves – $13 million club option, $1 million buyout
• Zack Britton, New York Yankees
• Chad Green, New York Yankees
• Pedro Baez, Houston Astros– $7.5 million club option, $2 million buyout
• Corey Knebel, Philadelphia Phillies
• Jake McGee, San Francisco Giants – $4.5 million club option, $500,000 buyout
• Jose Leclerc, Texas Rangers – $5 million club option, $750,000 buyout
• Trevor May, New York Mets
• Andrew Chafin, Detroit Tigers
• Ken Giles, free agent
• Anthony Bass, Toronto Blue Jays – $3 million club option