Free Agent Predictions
- rossmelen91
- Nov 6, 2020
- 15 min read
Updated: Mar 16, 2021
Catcher
J.T. Realmuto
Realmuto is considered one of the best two way catchers in the league. He has a Gold Glove and two Silver Slugger awards to his name. Combine his on-field production with his youth (30 at the start of next season), arnd he's in line for a big pay day.
Bryce Harper has 11-years left on his contract, and it'd be best to keep him happy by re-signing Realmuto. However, he will have suitors lining up for his services. It'll be interesting to see how the chips fall for free agents on other teams. For example, if Yadier Molina decides to sign elsewhere, then St. Louis could be a destination for Realmuto.
Teams to Consider: Braves, Angels, Mets, Yankees, Cardinals
Prediction: Phillies
Signed: Phillies
Yadier Molina
Yadi is one of, if not, the best defensive catchers of all time. He is to St. Louis what Johnny Bench was to Cincinnati, consistency and stability. This season, Yadi caught in 42 regular season games, as well as all 3 Wild Card Series games. Proving, that he is still durable behind the plate.
It would be weird to see Yadi in any jersey not named St. Louis next season. However, there are other organizations that are a good sign-caller away from being a serious threat. St. Louis is always a legit candidate to win a championship, so this will be a fun situation to monitor.
Teams to Consider: Braves, Angels, Yankees
Prediction: Cardinals
Signed: Cardinals
James McCann
McCann has had two stellar years for the White Sox. In 2019 he was named to the AL All-Star team and this season he was a finalist for the Gold Glove Award.
Unfortunately for him, he had to split time with 2020 free agent signing Yasmani Grandal. Both were fantastic for an up and coming team. The question for McCann going forward has to pertain to more playing time. He's only 30-years old and in the prime of his career.
Teams to Consider: Yankees, Indians, Braves
Prediction: Mets
Signed: Mets
Wilson Ramos
This season wasn't a typical Ramos year from an offensive standpoint. Granted, it was a struggle for most players due to the shortened schedule.
His subpar season combined with his age (33) will make him appealing to smaller market teams. Teams interested will be hoping for a resurgent season after a down year. At this point in his career, he's more of a platoon catcher rather than a full time starter.
Teams to Consider: Rays, Brewers
Prediction: Rangers
Signed: Tigers
Mike Zunino
Zunino was big for the Rays this postseason. He had moments on offensive, but was better known for his defense. Having to handle the Rays 'stable of arms' is no easy task, and he was able to do so on the biggest stage during the postseason.
He's another platoon catcher that would be perfect for a team looking to split time amongst their catchers.
Teams to Consider: Blue Jays, Rays, Mets
Prediction: Nationals
Signed: Rays
First Base
Carlos Santana
In 2019, Santana was the AL Silver Slugger Award winner for first baseman. However, this season he hit under the Mendoza line and his struggles continued into the postseason. He played in all 60 regular season games and ranked in the top 10 in Fielding Percentage for first basemen.
Despite his age, he's been consistently healthy. It'll be interesting to see what the Indians do this offseason. It's sounding as though a rebuild could be coming, especially with the White Sox looking like the class of the AL Central for years to come.
Teams to Consider: Nationals, Giants, Red Sox
Prediction: Rockies
Signed: Royals
Daniel Murphy
It's been 5+ years since his magical postseason run, and it's still the first thing I think of when I hear his name. He's never been able to live up to that hype over a full season though.
He's a good player on the backend of his career. It'll be interesting to see if teams take a chance on him at 1st base or if he's moved to the DH position full time.
Teams to Consider: Nationals
Prediction: Brewers
Retired
Mitch Moreland
He's regarded as one of the better fielding first baseman who has power.
At this point in his career, he's probably a backup first baseman who can also DH. Look for an up and coming team to take a long hard look at bringing him in to mentor some of the younger players.
Teams To Consider: Padres, Nationals
Prediction: Tigers
Signed: Athletics
Second Base
D.J. LeMahieu
You can make a strong argument he is the best bat to ball hitter in the league. There's really not a pitch he can't hit. LeMahieu defies the analytics. Analytics are strong on home runs, which is something LeManieu can do, but it's his single and double abilities that he's known for.
He finished with the best batting average in the league, top 5 in On-Base Percentage, and a top 2 finish in WAR. Mookie Betts was the only player to have a higher WAR rating.
Teams to Consider: Blue Jays, Athletics, Dodgers, Angels, Phillies
Prediction: Yankees
Signed: Yankees
Kolten Wong
The decision to decline his option came as a surprise to many. Unfortunately for Wong, his next contract will be significantly impacted by COVID.
He is a gold glove defender that puts together good at-bats. Unfortunately, he's shown glimpses of pop in his bat, but not enough to warrant the Cardinals to continue paying him $12.5 million.
Teams to Consider: Red Sox, Mariners, Cubs
Prediction: Angels
Signed: Brewers
Tommy La Stella
His stellar seasons have come later in his career. Similar to LeMahieu, he has great bat to ball ability. He's certainly not on that level, but has proven to be a tough out with strikeout to walk (K/BB)ratio.
He could be a steal for whichever teams picks him up. He shouldn't be nearly as expensive as the guys ahead of him, which will make his free agency process something to keep an eye on.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Cubs, Giants
Prediction: Cardinals
Signed: Giants
Howie Kendrick
Just a season ago, Kendrick was a World Series hero for the Nationals. He's definitely on the backside of his career, but still hits for a good enough batting average to be a spot starter or DH. He'd be a great player to have in the clubhouse for a team on the precipice of making a postseason run.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Padres, Braves
Prediction: White Sox
Retired
Shortstop
Marcus Semien
He's going to be one of the big dominoes to look for this offseason. His decision will have lasting impacts on where others players will sign. In 2019, he finished 3rd in the MVP voting. However, this season was tough for him to regain that form.
The question will be whether he entertains a hometown discount to stay in Oakland. Many people believe he's hit his ceiling, but even so he's among some of the best shortstops in the league.
Teams to Consider: Angels, Phillies, Reds, Giants
Prediction: Athletics
Signed: Blue Jays
Didi Gregorius
When he's healthy he is one of the best hitting shortstops in the league. This season, he was able to play in all 60 games and hit over .280 with 10 home runs.
It will be interesting to see if he waits for Semien to sign before making his decision.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Reds, Giants, Phillies
Prediction: Angels
Signed: Phillies
Andrelton Simmons
He is one of the smoothest defenders in the league. If it weren't for Brandon Crawford, he would probably have more Gold Gloves to his name than he already does. He's not a great hitter, but puts together some good at bats at the bottom of a lineup.
Simmons will be sought after by multiple teams throughout this free agent process. He will probably sign with a team that is offensive heavy, as it's his defense teams are after.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Reds, Giants, Yankees
Prediction: Phillies
Signed: Twins
Freddy Galvis
Galvis is definitely an under the radar player for teams to consider. He plays 2B and SS at a high level. I'm not too sure there will be a full-time SS position available in 2021, but teams will look to him for his utility.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Angels, Phillies
Prediction: Red Sox
Signed: Orioles
Third Base
Justin Turner
I'm not too sure there has been a player who's had two different playing careers. With the Mets, he didn't hit for high batting averages or home runs for that matter. Since signing with the Dodgers he's revamped his swing and become a huge key to their success.
He's getting up there in age, but that won't stop him from producing. He hit 3 home runs for the Dodgers during the 2020 postseason and was a steady presence for their young stars. It'd be very shocking to see him anywhere but LA.
Teams to Consider: Nationals, Braves
Prediction: Dodgers
Signed: Dodgers
Maikel Franco
It wasn't long ago that Franco was consistently hitting 20+ home runs a season. Unfortunately for him, he has never able to control his K/BB ratio with the Phillies.
In 2020, he was able to show a glimpse of those 20+ home run seasons by hitting 8 in the 60-game shortened season. He's never been a great fielder, but analytics value home runs more than defensive inefficiencies.
Teams to Consider: Braves, Royals, Tigers
Prediction: Nationals
Signed: Orioles
Jedd Gyorko
At this point in his career, he primarily plays 1st base. He does have power, but has seen a decrease in batting average throughout the last few seasons.
I wouldn't be surprised if a small market team brings him into the fold.
Teams to Consider: Brewers, Braves, Tigers, Athletics
Prediction: Rays
Outfield
George Springer
Springer has been a model of consistency for the Astros throughout the past few seasons. Obviously, take that how you will with their cheating scandal. The past couple of seasons he's found himself on the injured list, but it shouldn't affect team's pursuit of him.
Throughout his career he has played centerfield. It will be interesting to see if he's willing to make a move to a corner outfield position. If so, he may be able to demand a larger contract. Whoever gets Springer will be getting a consistent hitter and fielder, but more importantly an experienced postseason contributor.
Teams to Consider: Cubs, Phillies, Blue Jays, Cardinals
Prediction: Astros
Signed: Blue Jays
Marcell Ozuna
Ozuna has been on the move the past few seasons. He's gone from Miami to St. Louis to Atlanta. Everywhere he goes he's been productive. This season he led the NL in Home Runs, RBI, and Total Bases.
It will be interesting to see if he gets a longer contract than what he's had the past couple of years. He'll have quite a few suitors so we'll see what the market dictates for such a productive player.
Teams to Consider: Braves, Nationals, Mets
Prediction: Blue Jays
Signed: Braves
Michael Brantley
He is in consideration for the best hitters in the league. He's been a model of consistency throughout his career. His postseason performances have only helped drive up his free agent stock.
It will be interesting to see what the Astros do between him and George Springer. I don't think there is anyway they could bring both back. If the Astros go with Springer, Brantley will immediately jump to the top of the list for remaining outfielders.
Teams to Consider: Astros, Braves, White Sox, Cubs
Prediction: Cardinals
Signed: Astros
Jackie Bradley Jr.
He is the definition of a streak hitter. When he's on, he can carry a team. However, when he's off, he'll go games on end without a hit. Luckily for him, his defense is so good you can't afford to take him out of the lineup. It'll be intriguing to see how teams value defense this offseason.
Teams to Consider: Astros, Phillies, Cubs, Diamondbacks, Red Sox, Giants
Prediction: Reds
Signed: Brewers
Joc Pederson
Joc began his career with a bang. He made the All-Star team and participated in the Home Run Derby as a rookie. Unfortunately, his immediate success may have stunted his overall development.
Despite his hitting woes, he still connects for a ton of homeruns. He's had limited opportunities the past few season so it will be intriguing to see if he gets a full-time chance with a new club. Joc was traded to the Angels in the 2019 offseason, but the deal fell through so he remained with the Dodgers.
Teams to Consider: Dodgers, Nationals, Giants, Cardinals
Prediction: Padres
Signed: Cubs
Brett Gardner
It's crazy to believe he's the last link to the Yankees 2009 World Series Championship. I'm not sure there is anyone, outside of himself, that thought he'd have such a solid career. It feels like an era is coming to an end if the Yankees don't re-sign him.
Teams to Consider: Yankees, Astros, Cardinals, Mets
Prediction: Phillies
Signed: Yankees
Adam Eaton
Eaton is an intriguing free agent for many teams. Throughout his career he's shown a great ability to get on base. Of his 9 MLB seasons, he's been able to post a .360 or higher On-Base Percentage in 6 of them. However, he's been prone to injuries in almost every season.
He's a solid fielder and has postseason experience. He'll be an under the radar signing that play big dividends for the team that gets him.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Yankees, Blue Jays
Prediction: Mariners
Signed: White Sox
Kevin Pillar
Pillar will always be known for his defensive prowess. He hits for a good enough average, but needs to cutdown on his strikeouts. He's not an on-base machine, but his runs saved defensively help compensate for that.
Teams to Consider: Red Sox, Rockies, Twins
Prediction: Brewers
Signed: Mets
Nick Markakis
This was a unique year for Markakis. He initially opted out of the 2020 season before ultimately deciding to come back midseason. He was one game away from making it to his first World Series. Offensively, his numbers were down, but that was due to a lack of preparation and shortened schedule. He's still as reliable as they come in the outfield.
The Braves could be a team making big moves this offseason. I believe the decision to bring Markakis back will hinge upon what happens with Ozuna. He's taken team friendly, one-year, deals to play in his hometown of Atlanta, and that could be an option once again.
Teams to Consider: Yankees, Red Sox
Prediction: Braves
Retired
Domingo Santana
Santana could be one of the biggest boom or bust free agent signings this offseason. Not many players can claim a 30 home run season, but he is one of them. Unfortunately for him, he's had two seasons in which he has struckout over 160 times.
He's not the most nimble outfielder, but if he can display the power from his past, a team will gladly take those mistakes with boom of his bat. He's also only 28 years of age.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Pirates
Prediction: Twins
Signed: Japan
Designated Hitter
Nelson Cruz
Cruz has found the fountain of youth. Since 2014, he hasn't hit less than 35 homeruns in a season. This season he hit 16 home runs in only 60 games, which would put him on pace for well more than 35.
At 40 years of age, he will still draw a ton of looks by teams. Unfortunately, his offers will be limited to the AL as the universal designated hitter looks as though it won't take effect until after the 2021 season.
Teams to Consider: Astros, Yankees, Mariners
Prediction: Twins
Signed: Twins
Shin-Soo Choo
Choo has made a very nice career for himself. Throughout his career he's been on some bad teams. The Rangers, being one of them, look to be in full rebuild mode. His days in Arlington are probably over at this point.
He can play the corner outfield positions, as well as DH.
Teams to Consider: Giants, Diamondbacks, Marlins
Prediction: Red Sox
Signed: Korea
Utility Players
Dee Strange-Gordon
After the 2014 & 2015 seasons it looked like Gordon was on the verge of becoming one of the best leadoff hitters in the league. Since those seasons it's been a grind for Strange-Gordon. He still has exceptional speed and could be a great option as a table-setter for a deep lineup.
With the Mariners he played multiple positions on the field. This utility could help him in landing a decent contract.
Teams to Consider: Dodgers, Padres, Giants, Athletics
Prediction: Yankees
Signed: Reds
Enrique Hernandez
Enrique has been productive in a very difficult role. It's difficult to gage Enrique because he's had limited opportunities. Having said that, when he does play he tends to produce a high clip.
His versatility as a utility guy should play to his benefit this offseason.
Teams to Consider: Tigers, Athletics, Nationals
Prediction: Giants
Signed: Red Sox
Marwin Gonzalez
Gonzalez is the forgotten guy from those 2015-2018 Astros teams. He plays every position on the field, minus catcher and pitcher. There will certainly be a market for him as a utility guy. Injury prone teams could definitely use a guy like him.
Teams to Consider: Twins, Indians, Rays, Giants
Prediction: Astros
Signed: Red Sox
Starting Pitcher
Trevor Bauer
Every contending team will be vying for his services. Bauer led the league among qualified starters this regular season by posting a 1.73 ERA. It will be worth monitoring the monetary offers he receives with the depressed COVID market. I don't believe he'll be getting anywhere near the amount of dollars Cole received last offseason, but Bauer doesn't seem to be the kind of guy looking squarely at figures.
Teams to Consider: Yankees, Padres, Dodgers, White Sox, Reds
Prediction: Angels
Signed: Dodgers
Marcus Stroman
Stroman is a competitor. He's listed at 5'7 tall but pitches as though he's 6'7. Due to his stature and stuff, he'll always be compared to Pedro Martinez. Similar to Pedro, he's always been consistent in his numbers and will be sought after if he declines his qualifying offer.
He would immediately be a staff's number one or two starter. Teams outside of the Mets may be apprehensive signing him as they'd be giving up a compensatory pick.
Teams to Consider: Padres, Angels, Red Sox, Yankees, Cubs
Prediction: Mets
Signed: Mets
Masahiro Tanaka
Tanaka came to the Yankees in 2014 and has been a consistent pitcher in that time. It's certainly not easy to pitch in the Bronx, but he's held it together quite well. He holds a regular season ERA of 3.74 and postseason ERA of 3.33 during his career.
He's battle tested and could be a good option for teams looking to get a low-end 2nd or high-end 3rd starter.
Teams to Consider: Yankees, Mets, Cubs, Diamondbacks, White Sox
Prediction: Mariners
Signed: Japan
Charlie Morton
Prior to game 3 of the 2020 World Series, you could've made the argument he was the best clutch pitcher in the MLB at the moment. He's had an up and down career, but really turned it around the past 5 seasons. There's a lot of people that believe Morton will hang up the cleats for good. However, after his game 3 performance he'll be hungry for at least one more last go of it.
Teams to Consider: Yankees, Angels, Padres, Angels
Prediction: Rays
Signed: Braves
Corey Kluber
Kluber is an under the radar free agent candidate. His season with the Rangers ended with a shoulder tear in 2020. He had been a workhorse for the Indians prior to this season. During his 10 seasons, he's pitched over 200 innings in 5 of them.
At 34 years of age, his best days are more than likely behind him. His market interest will be intriguing because we have no idea what he'll look like coming off a shoulder injury.
Teams to Consider: Astros, Padres, Cardinals, Twins
Prediction: Brewers
Signed: Yankees
Jon Lester
Lester leaves Chicago as a legend. Sure, he helped them win their first World Series Championship in 108 seasons, but it's his generosity and ferocity fans will remember. His farewell to Chicago included a $47,000 bar tab to the fans as a goodbye to the city.
The past few seasons haven't been the typical Lester years, but he does have tread left on the tires in a new setting. Plug him into a competing team and he could rediscover his postseason success.
Teams to Consider: Red Sox, White Sox, Mets
Prediction: Braves
Signed: Nationals
Robbie Ray
Ray may benefit the most of all pitchers on the free agent market. He is arguably the best lefty available when you consider his age and stuff. He's had an up and down career, but shown glimpses of being an ace. Which team is going to roll the dice on an inconsistent pitcher that shows glimpses of greatness?
Teams to Consider: Braves, Blue Jays, Red Sox
Predictions: Reds
Signed: Blue Jays
Of all the pitchers listed, Walker may have the highest upside at this point in his career. He's been on some bad teams in his career. It'd be interesting to see him as the 3rd pitcher in an already proven rotation.
Teams to Consider: Reds, Yankees, Padres
Predictions: Nationals
Signed: Mets
Mike Minor
Had the Rangers traded Minor at the deadline in 2019 they would have yielded multiple prospects. Instead they waited and dealt him this season at a reduced rate. He has a career ERA under 4.00 and is a left handed pitcher. These two facts will get him multiple offers by contending teams. At this point, he will probably be slotted in as the 4th or 5th starter for whatever team he signs with.
Teams to Consider: Angels, Astros
Prediction: White Sox
Signed: Royals
Chris Archer
It wasn't long ago that Archer was amongst the best pitchers in baseball. The trade to the Pirates has had an adverse affect on his career. Will he ever make it back to where he was? Probably not, but in the right situation he could be an innings eater.
Teams to Consider: Mariners, Athletics, Brewers
Prediction: Cubs
Signed: Rays
Relief Pitchers
Liam Hendriks
He's been the best closer in baseball the past two seasons. The Rays and Dodgers showed how important relief pitching is this postseason. If Hendriks were in any other organization he probably would've received the qualifying offer, For the A's, they aren't willing to spend $18.9 million per season on a closer.
Hendriks thrived in the smaller market setting. In a perfect world, I believe he would like to stay in Oakland. However, teams will be at his door with their check books open.
Teams to Consider: Athletics, Angels, Mets, White Sox
Prediction: Giants
Signed: White Sox
Brad Hand
Hand's work goes under the radar. This season he was a nominee for the AL Reliever of the Year Award. After such a great year, one would think the Indians would bring him back. To the surprise of many they declined his reasonably priced $10 million option. He's younger than Hendriks and a hard throwing left hander. These two things could see him garner a larger deal than Hendriks.
Team to Consider: Athletics, Rockies, Diamondbacks
Prediction: Dodgers
Signed: Nationals
Trevor Rosenthal
Rosenthal has always had amazing stuff. Before the abundance of 100+ mph throwers it was Rosenthal and Chapman that consistently hit triple digits. Despite the fastball, he's had some up and down seasons.
The trade from the Royals to the contending Padres this season helped him regain his confidence and form. He'll have suitors lining up to get him, but we'll see how COVID affects the market for late inning pitchers.
Teams to Consider: Angels, Dodgers, Braves
Prediction: Padres
Signed: Athletics
Blake Treinen
All in all, Treinen pitched very well for the Dodgers this season. With Jansen struggling, Roberts turned to Treinen to save game 5 of the World Series. It wasn't long ago that Treinen saved 38 games while registering a .78 ERA with the A's in 2018.
Teams to Consider: Dodgers, Angels, Blue Jays, Phillies, Yankees, Marlins
Prediction: Red Sox
Signed: Dodgers
Alex Colome
It's rare that all three relievers nominated for the AL Reliever of the Year Award are free agents. Colome saved 12 games this season while recording an astonishing .81 ERA.
The whole reliever market will be domino effect. This offseason could be a musical chairs scenario for quality relievers.
Teams to Consider: Giants, Athletics, Astros, Padres
Prediction: White Sox
Signed: Twins
Mark Melancon
After multiple subpar years with the Giants, Melancon found his form with the Braves. This season he posted a 2.78 ERA and saved 11 games. He was able to anchor down a good Braves bullpen.
Teams to Consider: Phillies, Cubs, Twins
Prediction: Braves
Signed: Padres
Jeremy Jeffress
Jeffress is a veteran arm with postseason experience. This season with the Cubs he produced an impressive ERA of 1.54 while saving 8 games. He's definitely in line for a closer role if the dominoes fall the right way.
Teams to Consider: Red Sox, Mariners
Prediction: Athletics
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