It has been a great week to be a baseball fan. There hasn't been any games played and we are still a few months away from the season, but I can't remember the last time I was truly this excited about baseball. There have been quite a few major free agent signings and these only add to the fun and unexpected trades we've also seen. Who would've thought the Yankees would sign Jacoby Ellsbury just days before letting Robinson Cano walk in free agency? I honestly didn't think I'd ever see the day when the Yankees got outbid by the MARINERS on one of the leagues premiere second basemen. They spent $240 million to bring him here. To put htat in some perspective, that's within $20 million dollars of how much they spent on their entire team the past 3 years combined! But anyway, there's still a good amount of guys out there, especially after the 40 man roster cuts that happed as well this week. So I've decided to put together a list every Friday that lets you know just who's still out there as well as what you can expect from them and maybe a few stats and figures here and there. I'll start today out with the position players.
Catchers
1. John Buck
With all the big names off the board at the catcher position already, John Buck seemingly becomes the best available backstop. Buck has not been very productive the past few years, he hasn't hit over .230 since 2010. He also isn't known as being a particularly great defensive catcher either. Yet, as a starting backup the past few years, he could have some appeal to teams looking for either a short term stop-gap behind the plate, or maybe a someone wants him as a veteran mentor to a young backstop who can also step in and play every once in a while. Possibly a fit back with the Mets in New York in a once in awhile starter kind of role.
2. Kurt Suzuki
Once a guy with a great amount of promise which even earned him a 4 year $16.25 million extension with the A's, Suzuki's career has been as stellar as many thought. Suzuki likely doesn't provide anything more than catching depth at this point in his career. Might get a couple million but nothing spectacular. Maybe a fit with the Dodgers who are in need of catching.
Other Options:
Kelly Shoppach, Yorvit Torrealba, Taylor Teagarden
With all the big names off the board at the catcher position already, John Buck seemingly becomes the best available backstop. Buck has not been very productive the past few years, he hasn't hit over .230 since 2010. He also isn't known as being a particularly great defensive catcher either. Yet, as a starting backup the past few years, he could have some appeal to teams looking for either a short term stop-gap behind the plate, or maybe a someone wants him as a veteran mentor to a young backstop who can also step in and play every once in a while. Possibly a fit back with the Mets in New York in a once in awhile starter kind of role.
2. Kurt Suzuki
Once a guy with a great amount of promise which even earned him a 4 year $16.25 million extension with the A's, Suzuki's career has been as stellar as many thought. Suzuki likely doesn't provide anything more than catching depth at this point in his career. Might get a couple million but nothing spectacular. Maybe a fit with the Dodgers who are in need of catching.
Other Options:
Kelly Shoppach, Yorvit Torrealba, Taylor Teagarden
1st Base
1. Mike Napoli
One of the best hitters still left on the market, Napoli had another great year with the Red Sox last year. His bat still has a lot of pop and could be a great addition in the middle of just about any lineup. There have been a lot of rumors floating around him as of late including a possible return to Texas but my gut still tells me that Boston is going to do everything they can to keep him.
( As of me submitting this Napoli resigned with the Red Sox for 2 years / $32million)
2. Kendrys Morales
Although his fielding and body have been deteriorating the past few years, Morales's bat has just kept on chugging. His fielding woes along with his oft injured back will most likely limit him to an American League team with a need of a DH, but that seems to be the perfect spot for him anyways. Has hit at least .270 with 20 HRs each of the past two years along with slugging over .440 each of the last four. May end up back in the middle of Seattle's hitting starved lineup, maybe even hitting right behind Cano.
3. James Loney
James Loney underwent one of the best career revivals in the league last year, using his 1 year $2million contract last year with the Rays to rebuild his value and most likely net himself a much larger one this time around. Although he still doesn't have the power that most teams look for in a starting first baseman, he is one of the best fielders in the league there and as he proved last year, isn't useless in the box either. He will net a multi-year deal this time, and the Pirates have been the favorites for him in recent weeks.
4. Corey Hart
Giving a couple million for a player who missed the entire last season due to injury isn't usually a great business model, but when that player averaged 29 HRs over the three seasons before, there's definitely going to be opportunities for him to get paid. Hart hasn't set foot on a field since 2012, but very well could be a team's starting first baseman come opening day. Has been a great hitters before and there will probably be a few teams who want to make a bet that he will again.
Other Options:
Ryan Langerhans, Mark Reynolds, Chad Tracy, Lyle Overbay
One of the best hitters still left on the market, Napoli had another great year with the Red Sox last year. His bat still has a lot of pop and could be a great addition in the middle of just about any lineup. There have been a lot of rumors floating around him as of late including a possible return to Texas but my gut still tells me that Boston is going to do everything they can to keep him.
( As of me submitting this Napoli resigned with the Red Sox for 2 years / $32million)
2. Kendrys Morales
Although his fielding and body have been deteriorating the past few years, Morales's bat has just kept on chugging. His fielding woes along with his oft injured back will most likely limit him to an American League team with a need of a DH, but that seems to be the perfect spot for him anyways. Has hit at least .270 with 20 HRs each of the past two years along with slugging over .440 each of the last four. May end up back in the middle of Seattle's hitting starved lineup, maybe even hitting right behind Cano.
3. James Loney
James Loney underwent one of the best career revivals in the league last year, using his 1 year $2million contract last year with the Rays to rebuild his value and most likely net himself a much larger one this time around. Although he still doesn't have the power that most teams look for in a starting first baseman, he is one of the best fielders in the league there and as he proved last year, isn't useless in the box either. He will net a multi-year deal this time, and the Pirates have been the favorites for him in recent weeks.
4. Corey Hart
Giving a couple million for a player who missed the entire last season due to injury isn't usually a great business model, but when that player averaged 29 HRs over the three seasons before, there's definitely going to be opportunities for him to get paid. Hart hasn't set foot on a field since 2012, but very well could be a team's starting first baseman come opening day. Has been a great hitters before and there will probably be a few teams who want to make a bet that he will again.
Other Options:
Ryan Langerhans, Mark Reynolds, Chad Tracy, Lyle Overbay
2nd Base
1. Omar Infante
With Robinson Cano now off the market, Infante now headlines the list of free agent second basemen. Had a great year last year slashing .318/.345/.450 and is still only 31 years old. Although Cano got all of the recent attention, Infante is a very good player and will help a team out next season. There are a few teams that could use a strong second baseman including the Yankees who lost Cano earlier today.
2. Mark Ellis
Ellis, although getting old at 36 years old, his been a productive and maybe slightly underrated player for the Dodgers the last two years. A slightly above average fielder who can probably be an average hitter again will be able to find someone who will give him some money this winter. The question will be for how long. There's no flash in signing Ellis, but he may ultimately end up with a starting job. Toronto could also be an option here.
3. Brian Roberts
If it wasn't for the injuries, Brian Roberts could have been looking at a much bigger payday this offseason then he currently is. He hasn't been on the field enough the last few seasons to make much of an impact, but just a few years back he was one of the best second basemen in the league. A team may be willing to take a gamble on the 36 year old, but not as a starting option right out of the gate. Might end up back with the Orioles.
Other Options:
Alexi Casilla, Miguel Tejada
With Robinson Cano now off the market, Infante now headlines the list of free agent second basemen. Had a great year last year slashing .318/.345/.450 and is still only 31 years old. Although Cano got all of the recent attention, Infante is a very good player and will help a team out next season. There are a few teams that could use a strong second baseman including the Yankees who lost Cano earlier today.
2. Mark Ellis
Ellis, although getting old at 36 years old, his been a productive and maybe slightly underrated player for the Dodgers the last two years. A slightly above average fielder who can probably be an average hitter again will be able to find someone who will give him some money this winter. The question will be for how long. There's no flash in signing Ellis, but he may ultimately end up with a starting job. Toronto could also be an option here.
3. Brian Roberts
If it wasn't for the injuries, Brian Roberts could have been looking at a much bigger payday this offseason then he currently is. He hasn't been on the field enough the last few seasons to make much of an impact, but just a few years back he was one of the best second basemen in the league. A team may be willing to take a gamble on the 36 year old, but not as a starting option right out of the gate. Might end up back with the Orioles.
Other Options:
Alexi Casilla, Miguel Tejada
3rd Base
1. Juan Uribe
The third base market this year is rather vacant. On the opposite end, there is a decent amount of teams looking for third base help this offseason. Juan Uribe is most likely the best option on the market, but he is by no means an ideal solution. A streaky hitter over the course of his career, Uribe had a strong year last year after being horrendous the two years before with the Dodgers. If last year was any indication of what's to come, Uribe has some power left but not a ton to go along with hitting for a decent average.
2. Michael Young
Young is now 37 and is in no way a good defender at third base. That being said, he is still a very good major league hitter and should be able to find a part time third base job this offseason. Because of all the teams looking for third base help, a team may be willing to overlook his defense and sign him off of his bat alone. There is a small possibility of him starting somewhere but most likely he will settle into a reserve role somewhere.
3. Kevin Youkilis
Kevin Youkilis represents another former star who is coming off an injury riddled year. There is a possibility that he still has some pop left in his bat, but a team signing him and banking on him being their starting third baseman next year would be a mistake. Injuries are the story here, buyer beware.
Other Options:
Eric Chavez, Placido Polanco, Jamey Carroll, Jerry Hairston Jr.
The third base market this year is rather vacant. On the opposite end, there is a decent amount of teams looking for third base help this offseason. Juan Uribe is most likely the best option on the market, but he is by no means an ideal solution. A streaky hitter over the course of his career, Uribe had a strong year last year after being horrendous the two years before with the Dodgers. If last year was any indication of what's to come, Uribe has some power left but not a ton to go along with hitting for a decent average.
2. Michael Young
Young is now 37 and is in no way a good defender at third base. That being said, he is still a very good major league hitter and should be able to find a part time third base job this offseason. Because of all the teams looking for third base help, a team may be willing to overlook his defense and sign him off of his bat alone. There is a small possibility of him starting somewhere but most likely he will settle into a reserve role somewhere.
3. Kevin Youkilis
Kevin Youkilis represents another former star who is coming off an injury riddled year. There is a possibility that he still has some pop left in his bat, but a team signing him and banking on him being their starting third baseman next year would be a mistake. Injuries are the story here, buyer beware.
Other Options:
Eric Chavez, Placido Polanco, Jamey Carroll, Jerry Hairston Jr.
Shortstop
1. Steven Drew
Easily the best shortstop option left on the market, Steven Drew played a big role in Boston's championship run last year, especially in October. He is a very sound defensive shortstop who also hit well last year. With Peralta already signed by the Cardinals, Drew is the define best option on the board at this position. Look for a contender to pay up for Drew's services. A team like the Mets could take a run at him but ultimately I think he stays with the Sox along with Napoli.
2. Clint Barmes
Pittsburg's starting shortstop for a good chunk of the year last year is most likely the best shortstop option for anyone who fails to sign Drew. Known as a very good defensive player, defense is what teams would be buying here as Barmes hasn't hit over .245 since 2008. Desperate teams may see him as a starter but ultimately he may be a depth signing. I like the Mets here if they lose out on Drew.
Other Options:
Cesar Izturis, Robert Andino, Paul Janish
Easily the best shortstop option left on the market, Steven Drew played a big role in Boston's championship run last year, especially in October. He is a very sound defensive shortstop who also hit well last year. With Peralta already signed by the Cardinals, Drew is the define best option on the board at this position. Look for a contender to pay up for Drew's services. A team like the Mets could take a run at him but ultimately I think he stays with the Sox along with Napoli.
2. Clint Barmes
Pittsburg's starting shortstop for a good chunk of the year last year is most likely the best shortstop option for anyone who fails to sign Drew. Known as a very good defensive player, defense is what teams would be buying here as Barmes hasn't hit over .245 since 2008. Desperate teams may see him as a starter but ultimately he may be a depth signing. I like the Mets here if they lose out on Drew.
Other Options:
Cesar Izturis, Robert Andino, Paul Janish
Outfield
1. Shin-Soo Choo
At the top of what is still a rather full outfield market is the former Red and Indian Shin-Soo Choo. With the Cano signing today, Choo is now be the most coveted free agent position player by many teams. Choo is a very strong hitter with a career slash of .288/.389/.465 and an above average corner outfield defender. He should be used as a corner outfielder and even though he doesn't profile all that well as a full time center field option, he could also be used in center from time to time. Choo is a veteran front of the order hitter who would provide an instant upgrade to just about any lineup in the league. Has been rumored target of the Yankees and the Rangers with a lot of teams making sense here.
2. Carlos Beltran
Even as he ages, Beltran continues to produce, especially in the playoffs. Because he is one of the best postseason performers of all-time and can still dig it during the regular season, Beltran will no doubt be pursued by some contenders this offseason. Seriously, the 15 year MLB veteran is only 36 and probably has a few good years left. He profiles as a corner outfielder, possibly a part-time DH if he signs in the American League. Though it seems as if it shouldn't be true, may be one of the safer free agents left. I see him signing for 2 or 3 years with a contender this winter.
(Beltran accepted a 3 year/ $45million deal with the Yankees as of me submitting this)
3. Nelson Cruz
Nelson Cruz is the third of the big three outfielders left this offseason. Cruz is characterized by the big power he provides. He has hit 20 plus HRs in each of the past 5 seasons and should continue that streak for at least a couple more years. He can still be a force in the middle of a lineup and would be a good source of protection for another big name such as Miguel Cabrera. Along those lines, I think the Tigers should look into signing him should they be willing to spend a little bit. If not the Mariners could be a fit. The biogenesis scandal shouldn't be a factor at this point since he has already served his suspension.
4. Franklin Gutierrez
Franklin Gutierrez is the most intriguing centerfielder left on the market. He has a good combination of speed and power to go with his above average fielding. His biggest problem has been staying on the field consistently. Over the past two years with Seattle, he has played in only 81 games, far less than a team would want from its starting centerfielder. Even with his history, if he can be had for the right price and if he can stay on the field, a team could have a nice little steal on their hands. Possible destinations could include heading back to Seattle or leaving for the Red Sox if they feel Jackie Bradley Jr. isn't quite ready yet.
5. Michael Morse
Next up is Michael Morse, who at one point just a couple years ago was slowly becoming one of the best power hitters in the game. As I look back at those years in Washington, especially his 31 HR 95 RBI campaign in 2011, I'm starting to believe that those huge numbers were more of outliers than a strong definition of him as a player. I have Morse listed here as an outfielder, but at this point he might be more of a first baseman/DH.
6. Rajai Davis
Lastly is Rajai Davis, and trust me, he's quick. He stole 45 bases in 331 at bats last year in a reserve role. He has been a 4th outfielder for the majority of his career and should he look for an expanded role it would most likely be as more of a platoon player. His speed is what truly makes him so valuable and he is one of the best 4th outfielders in the majors. He could look for a larger role this offseason, but might not have a ton of success. I see him signing with the Braves as BJ Upton/injury insurance.
Other Options:
Raul Ibanez, Reed Johnson, Juan Pierre, Delmon Young
Thanks for reading and I'll be back soon with the pitchers.
At the top of what is still a rather full outfield market is the former Red and Indian Shin-Soo Choo. With the Cano signing today, Choo is now be the most coveted free agent position player by many teams. Choo is a very strong hitter with a career slash of .288/.389/.465 and an above average corner outfield defender. He should be used as a corner outfielder and even though he doesn't profile all that well as a full time center field option, he could also be used in center from time to time. Choo is a veteran front of the order hitter who would provide an instant upgrade to just about any lineup in the league. Has been rumored target of the Yankees and the Rangers with a lot of teams making sense here.
2. Carlos Beltran
Even as he ages, Beltran continues to produce, especially in the playoffs. Because he is one of the best postseason performers of all-time and can still dig it during the regular season, Beltran will no doubt be pursued by some contenders this offseason. Seriously, the 15 year MLB veteran is only 36 and probably has a few good years left. He profiles as a corner outfielder, possibly a part-time DH if he signs in the American League. Though it seems as if it shouldn't be true, may be one of the safer free agents left. I see him signing for 2 or 3 years with a contender this winter.
(Beltran accepted a 3 year/ $45million deal with the Yankees as of me submitting this)
3. Nelson Cruz
Nelson Cruz is the third of the big three outfielders left this offseason. Cruz is characterized by the big power he provides. He has hit 20 plus HRs in each of the past 5 seasons and should continue that streak for at least a couple more years. He can still be a force in the middle of a lineup and would be a good source of protection for another big name such as Miguel Cabrera. Along those lines, I think the Tigers should look into signing him should they be willing to spend a little bit. If not the Mariners could be a fit. The biogenesis scandal shouldn't be a factor at this point since he has already served his suspension.
4. Franklin Gutierrez
Franklin Gutierrez is the most intriguing centerfielder left on the market. He has a good combination of speed and power to go with his above average fielding. His biggest problem has been staying on the field consistently. Over the past two years with Seattle, he has played in only 81 games, far less than a team would want from its starting centerfielder. Even with his history, if he can be had for the right price and if he can stay on the field, a team could have a nice little steal on their hands. Possible destinations could include heading back to Seattle or leaving for the Red Sox if they feel Jackie Bradley Jr. isn't quite ready yet.
5. Michael Morse
Next up is Michael Morse, who at one point just a couple years ago was slowly becoming one of the best power hitters in the game. As I look back at those years in Washington, especially his 31 HR 95 RBI campaign in 2011, I'm starting to believe that those huge numbers were more of outliers than a strong definition of him as a player. I have Morse listed here as an outfielder, but at this point he might be more of a first baseman/DH.
6. Rajai Davis
Lastly is Rajai Davis, and trust me, he's quick. He stole 45 bases in 331 at bats last year in a reserve role. He has been a 4th outfielder for the majority of his career and should he look for an expanded role it would most likely be as more of a platoon player. His speed is what truly makes him so valuable and he is one of the best 4th outfielders in the majors. He could look for a larger role this offseason, but might not have a ton of success. I see him signing with the Braves as BJ Upton/injury insurance.
Other Options:
Raul Ibanez, Reed Johnson, Juan Pierre, Delmon Young
Thanks for reading and I'll be back soon with the pitchers.