After the final out of each World Series, fans are met with the sad realization that they’ll need to get their sports fix elsewhere, now that baseball season is over. Fortunately, the action never really stops in baseball. Whether it’s the naming of season award recipients, the Winter Meetings, or the free agency process, fans have plenty to keep themselves busy with until pitchers and catchers report in February. In every city except Houston, fans are already looking ahead to the 2018 season. Here is one player each team should realistically target as winter rolls around.
Arizona Diamondbacks: RP Greg Holland
Greg Holland would be a smart signing for the Diamondbacks.
Though every Diamondbacks fan would like to see J.D. Martinez in this spot, his return to the desert is unrealistic. With limited room for spending, the Snakes likely won’t be able to compete with the offers other teams present to Martinez. The club has pointed to the bullpen as an offseason focus, with Fernando Rodney, David Hernandez, and Jorge De La Rosa hitting the market. Coming off Tommy John surgery, Holland was healthy all season as the Colorado Rockies closer. He earned his third All-Star berth, going along with 41 saves, but second-half struggles led to questions about his fatigue post-surgery. With a full healthy season under his belt, Holland should fare better in the second half of 2018, and could be a reliable stopper in the back of the Diamondbacks bullpen.
Atlanta Braves: SP Lance Lynn
The Braves are still a few years away from contending, and their starting pitching represents one of their biggest issues. They’ve remain keen on developing starting pitchers at the minor league level, but could use a middle-rotation pitcher to add some veteran presence as the minor leaguers make their way up. Lynn represents a reliable arm when healthy. His ceiling isn’t as high as some other free agents, but right now the Braves need consistency. Lynn won’t be as expensive as players like Jake Arrieta and Yu Darvish, and could bring some stability to the rotation, as they build towards the future.
Baltimore Orioles: SP C.C. Sabathia
At long last, the Orioles have money coming off the books. A list of departing players including Jeremy Hellickson, Ubaldo Jimenez, Wade Miley, Chris Tillman, and J.J. Hardy, should open the doors for some Orioles spending. Baltimore had the worst starting pitching ERA in the majors last season, so even though they’re losing a handful of starting pitchers, they’ll still need to replace them. General Manager Dan Duquette should refrain from shelling out the required money for Yu Darvish or Jake Arrieta, not that the latter would have any interest in reuniting with his former club anyway. Alex Cobb represents an interesting possibility, but one that will certainly come cheaper is C.C. Sabathia. The Orioles need to be patient this offseason, and realize that while they have money to spend, this isn’t the most stout free agent class for starting pitchers. Sabathia has plenty of experience in the AL East, and has expressed a desire to pitch next season, whether it’s in New York or somewhere else. Buying on a pitcher like Sabathia, instead of overspending on another starter would help the Orioles in the long run, especially when better pitching options become available in years to come. Bringing in Sabathia would also allow the Orioles to sign another starting pitcher, compared to Cobb, where they’d likely only have the finances for one.
Boston Red Sox: 1B/DH- Carlos Santana
Though only mentioned as a first baseman and Designated Hitter, Santana is one of baseball’s most versatile players. Breaking into the majors as a catcher, he can also play third base and the outfield, if necessary. The Red Sox are reportedly pursuing Eric Hosmer, which would be a fantastic signing for Alex Cora’s new team, but there are other options at first base. With the Red Sox finishing last in the AL in homers last season, signing Santana, and making a trade for another potent power bat could right the ship in a hurry. Santana socked 23 home runs last season, but as a switch hitter at Fenway Park, it’s easy to see that number ballooning with more favorable dimensions and his tendency to pull the baseball. The Red Sox could also resign Mitch Moreland to play first, but if they’re unable to bring in Hosmer, Santana may represent the next best option.
Chicago Cubs: SP Alex Cobb
Considering Joe Maddon’s history with Alex Cobb, this is a move that makes total sense. Jake Arrieta is set to become a free agent, and though the Cubs will surely look to keep him in Chicago, it’s unsure where he’ll be pitching next season. If the Cubs are unable to retain Arrieta, Cobb seems to be a better option than Yu Darvish, who has also been linked to the Cubs. Even without Arrieta, Cobb wouldn’t be expected to anchor the rotation, with Jon Lester and Kyle Hendricks still atop the staff. The Cubs have other offseason needs, with Wade Davis being a free agent, so signing Cobb wouldn’t handcuff Theo Epstein from making the other necessary signings.
Chicago White Sox: SP Clay Buchholz
Free agency for a team completely immersed in a rebuild is usually isn’t fun. Last offseason the White Sox gambled on players like Geovany Soto and Derek Holland, so don’t expect them to break the bank as they develop what’s easily baseball most treasured farm system. Buchholz is coming off a lost season with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he couldn’t make it out of April before being shut down for the season. He’ll be looking for another chance to pitch, and the White Sox will be looking towards the bottom of the barrel for starters to eat innings. It’s a low-risk move for the White Sox, the kind you’d expect from a team looking past 2018.
Cincinnati Reds: SP Jeremy Hellickson
The Reds are perhaps in a worse situation than the White Sox, lacking the major league talent, but not possessing the farm system of the South Siders. They showed their willingness to overpay starting pitchers in the Homer Bailey deal, paying him over $100 thousand dollars for six years. Hellickson will be taking a pay cut compared to his last contract, and could be a cheaper option for the Reds, to help preserve younger arms as they develop arm strength at the major league level.
Cleveland Indians: 1B Mitch Moreland
The Red Sox and the Indians have had a propensity for swapping players in recent years. Over recent years, a ton of players have graced both clubhouses, and if the Red Sox pursue Carlos Santana, the Indians should be in pursuit of Mitch Moreland. Aside from being a former Gold Glover, Moreland was one of the Red Sox most reliable hitters last season, and a leader in the clubhouse. Sounds like a Terry Francona guy. The Indians don’t need to reinvent the wheel, despite an early postseason exit, and signing Moreland is a conservative move they should make.
Colorado Rockies: RP Addison Reed
It’s going to be an interesting offseason for the Rockies, with a number of players set to become free agents. The bullpen will likely take a hit, with Pat Neshek and Jake McGee looking to get paid, and Greg Holland having an option he’ll likely reject. They’ll also be losing Carlos Gonzalez, and Jonathan Lucroy is a free agent too. While the Rockies should look to resign parts of their bullpen, and Lucroy, Addison Reed is a signing that could greatly benefit the Rocks. Reed was the Mets closer for most of 2017, before moving to a set-up role with the Red Sox, and likely will look for a team that allows him to close again. He’s closed in the NL West with the Diamondbacks, and is a much better arm than people give him credit for. If the Rockies sign Reed to close, it could be one of the most underrated moves of the offseason, even if he’s pitching in Coors Field.
Detroit Tigers: OF Carlos Gonzalez
Although last season was a miserable one for the Tigers, their faithful can finally rejoice that the team is committed to rebuilding. Trading away Justin Verlander, J.D. Martinez, and Justin Upton represented a long overdue organizational shift for the team. CarGo is coming off a down season, and won’t be commanding the contract he one seemed like a shoe-in to get. Signing the former All-Star to a one-year deal would benefit both sides, with Gonzalez looking to bounce back en route to a bigger pay day next winter. Detroit could flip CarGo at the trade deadline for even more prospects, to continue the rebuild.
Houston Astros: RP Brandon Morrow
Where do you go after winning your first World Series in team history? Well how about to the reliever you saw most of in the Fall Classic? Morrow was a huge fixture for the Dodgers in 2017, and his performance in the playoffs likely caught the attention of multiple teams in need of bullpen help. The Astros will have some spots to fill in the pen, losing Tyler Clippard and Luke Gregerson, and Morrow could be part of the bridge to Ken Giles.
Kansas City Royals: OF Carlos Gomez
The bad news: the Royals are going to be losing some of their most beloved players in franchise history in the next few months.
The good news: the Royals are going to have money to spend.
The Royals will surely make a push to retain one of their departing free stars, reportedly Eric Hosmer, but it seems unlikely they match the checks written by bigger market teams. Aside from the stars, the Royals will be losing Melky Cabrera and Jason Vargas, and will have an assortment of needs to fill. They’ve been linked to Carlos Gomez, which seems realistic considering the amount of money they’ll have to spend. If the Royals can’t pay enough to keep hometown players, they won’t be able to net top free agents like J.D. Martinez, so Gomez serves a realistic B-level option.
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim: 3B Todd Frazier
The Angels already made what’s likely their biggest move of the offseason, resigning Justin Upton to a $108 million dollar deal. They were linked to Mike Moustakas before the Upton signing, to improve their lineup, ranked 11th in the AL last season. The Halo’s still have a hole to fill at the hot corner, and may look to a cheaper option, now that they’re paying Upton. Todd Frazier and Mike Trout are friends, both being from New Jersey, so Frazier heading to the City of Angels would be sensible.
Los Angeles Dodgers: SP Jake Arrieta
After a heartbreaking loss in Game 7 of the World Series, the Dodgers focus will now turn to getting back to the Fall Classic in 2018. With Game 7 starter Yu Darvish set to become a free agent as well, “Darvish or Arrieta?” will be the question asked in the coming weeks. Of the two, Arrieta appears to be the better option, and the Dodgers should spend whatever is necessary to keep a strong option behind Clayton Kershaw. If Japanese phenomenon Shohei Otani is able to make the move to MLB, the Dodgers could also be a suitor.
Miami Marlins: OF Melky Cabrera
With the news that Derek Jeter’s club is looking to unload salary by parting ways with Dee Gordon and Giancarlo Stanton, don’t expect them to be bringing in the bank trucks to any new players. Jeter knows Cabrera from his Yankees days, and Melky will be one of the better bargains on the market, for whatever team signs him. He’d fit well in right field, though filling the shoes of Stanton would be impossible for any player.
Milwaukee Brewers: SP Jake Arrieta
It may be cheating to use the same player twice, but then again this is a list of realistic targets, not where each player will end up!
The Brewers have the lowest payroll in baseball, and that was before getting Matt Garza off the books. They’d be foolish not to pursue Jake Arrieta, and steal him away from their NL Central rivals. Milwaukee came so close to the playoffs last season, and with money to spend, expect them to shell it out to someone this winter. If not Arrieta, the Brewers could make a play at Yu Darvish, but that wouldn’t be the wisest move. Alex Cobb or Andrew Cashner should also be on the list for Milwaukee.
Minnesota Twins: SP Tyler Chatwood
The Twins should work hard to resign free agent relievers Brandon Kintzler and Matt Belisle. Kintzler was fantastic for the Twins and Nationals last season, and Belisle was effective when stepping into the 9th inning after Kintzler’s trade to D.C. The Rockies Tyler Chatwood will be 28 years old when the 2018 season stars, younger than most of the pitchers on the market. His 2017 numbers are slightly misleading; he had a 6.01 ERA at Coors Field, and a 3.49 ERA on the road. If the Twins sign Chatwood, and he can pitch somewhere in between those two ERA’s, it will be a successful signing. The Twins shortcomings last season were in the starting rotation, but the top targets are likely out of reach for their budget. Chatwood in the middle of the rotation could be a smart move, and help Minnesota reach the playoffs once again in 2018.
New York Mets: OF Jay Bruce
Mets fans have had a strange relationship with Jay Bruce. He was chastised throughout the second half of 2016, when he arrived via trade with fanfare, but little success. By the time he was traded again this past August, the Flushing faithful were crushed to see him go. The Mets are bringing in former Indians pitching coach Mickey Callaway to manage, who highlighted team building and chemistry in his opening press conference. If you’re looking for team-oriented players, Mets fans know Jay Bruce is the man for the job. Bruce has expressed an interest in returning to the team, and they’d be smart to bring him back. His blend of professionalism and power fits right in with what Callaway is looking to harness in New York. It’d be a welcome reunion for all parties.
New York Yankees: 1B Eric Hosmer
The Yankees and Red Sox are no strangers to battling over players. Whether it was A-Rod, or recently David Robertson at the trade deadline, they’re often looking for ways to one-up their rivals. With the Red Sox rumored to be pursuing Hosmer, the Yankees would be wise to as well. The new-look Yankees are all about passion and youth, and while Hosmer isn’t as young as some of the Baby Bombers, he plays with a fire few others do. Even with Greg Bird at first base, the Yankees should still target Hosmer this winter, with Bird being a Designated Hitter possibility. You can already see Hosmer donning the pinstripes.
Oakland Athletics: SP Andrew Cashner
It wasn’t all bad for the A’s in 2017. Winning 75 games, their young, mostly homegrown lineup flashed potential going forward. If the A’s are going to make another leap next season, they’ll need more starting pitching. Andrew Cashner is a middle-tier free agent pitcher that would probably fit well with the Athletics. He had his best years in San Diego, and is familiar with the West Coast. Cashner isn’t going to blow anyone away, but could thrive towards the top of the rotation in Oakland. He was 11-11 with a 3.40 ERA in Texas last year, numbers the A’s would surely sign up for.
Philadelphia Phillies: SP Jason Vargas
MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki notes the Phillies are more focused on saving money for potential free agents Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, then giving an arm and a leg for someone this winter. With that being said, the Phillies are in a unique spot. Their lineup was a bright spot last season, and you can almost see a core group of bats developing. Aside from the lineup, Aaron Nola is turning into one of baseball’s best young pitchers, but he needs help. Enter Jason Vargas. The Phillies could also target bigger names like Alex Cobb or C.C. Sabathia, but Vargas is a serviceable starter that could aid the Phillies in their transformation from rebuilding to contending. Look for the Phillies to also improve their team by way of trading too. They aren’t far off, and every contending team needs veterans to sure up the rotation.
Pittsburgh Pirates: OF Ben Revere
Even with the Pirates picking up the option of Andrew McCutchen, they shouldn’t be finished making moves in the outfield. The trio of McCutchen, Polanco, and Marte hasn’t seen the field much together, for an assortment of reasons. Revere would be a solid insurance policy, and an upgrade at the leadoff spot for Clint Hurdle’s club. The Pirates won’t be losing many players to free agency, but Revere is one inexpensive option that could prove to be beneficial.
San Diego Padres: SS Jose Reyes
Shortstop has been a carousel for the Padres in recent years. They’ve inserted veterans like Erick Aybar, Clint Barmes, and Alexei Ramirez in recent years with little success. They have some top prospects not far away, but until then, will need someone to handle shortstop duties. Reyes played third base with the Mets, but probably won’t be fielding many offers to start at any position. The chance to start and hit near the top of a lineup would be intriguing for Reyes, and the Padres could probably sign him for next to nothing.
San Francisco Giants: OF Lorenzo Cain
Lorenzo Cain is the free agent name you’ll see most closely connected with the Giants this offseason, and for good reason. The Giants have stated their desire to improve defensively next season, and Cain is as good as it comes in center field. He won’t be the power solution the Giants are searching for, but the Giants are expected to get creative with trades this winter. Unfortunately signing Cain would also mean the Giants forfeit two draft picks, so it’s not a perfect choice. Still the Giants are determined to be successful in 2018, so Cain is a move they need to make to win.
Seattle Mariners: 1B Eric Hosmer
The Mariners have been treading water for a while now. They haven’t made the playoffs since 2001, and with a few exceptions (Robinson Cano, Chone Figgins), have shied away from major free agent signings. They’ve been linked to Lucas Duda since the summer, and while he’s a serviceable bat, he wouldn’t push the Mariners towards the future. Though it’s unlikely he’d sign, the Mariners should do all they can to bring Hosmer to Seattle. They’re losing Yonder Alonso, and instead of signing another short-term first baseman like Duda, it’s time for them to make a splash for a major piece.
St. Louis Cardinals: SS Zack Cozart
At 32, Zack Cozart is coming off the best year of his career. Though there are questions about his healthy, and rightfully so, there’s little question he’s one of the better hitting shortstops in baseball. The Cardinals have lacked stability at shortstop for a few years now, but Paul DeJong was a bright spot in the lineup last year. Signing Cozart would move DeJong to second base, joining a talented lineup now headlined by Tommy Pham. The Cardinals aren’t accustomed to missing the playoffs, and whether it’s via trade or free agency, will make some shifts to help them compete with the Cubs.
Tampa Bay Rays: RP Huston Street
For years, Street was one of baseball’s best and most underappreciated relievers. He battled injuries and pitched just four innings with the Angels last season, and will be looking for a one-year deal to raise his value. The Rays are a common destination for players looking to prove they’re healthy, and it just so happens that these Rays will be in great need of bullpen help. Potentially losing Tommy Hunter, Sergio Romo, and Steve Cishek will be a blow to the Rays, but taking a chance on Street presents a low-risk with a high-reward.
Texas Rangers: SP Yu Darvish
After his poor performance in the World Series, Yu Darvish’s list of suitors may have shrunk. Fewer teams will be willing to hand out the money Darvish likely will command. No, Darvish isn’t one of the best pitchers in baseball, but he’s still valuable. One team that should still be calling about Darvish is his former team, the Texas Rangers. The Rangers traded away Darvish in July, but haven’t ruled out a reunion. The AL West is getting stronger, and the Rangers will have to spend more to match the success they’ve had for most of the decade. Darvish isn’t without his flaws, and will cost the Rangers a lot, but the Rangers need someone to lead the rotation.
Toronto Blue Jays: INF Eduardo Nunez
Many teams will be pursuing the skills of Eduardo Nunez, and the Blue Jays should be one of them. He can play multiple infield positions, outfield, and is an above average bat who can hit anywhere in the lineup. His stint with the Red Sox last season probably increased his price tag, but he’s worth every penny. The Jays will have money to spend, and Nunez represents a worthy gamble, if they can get him to sign the dotted line.
Washington Nationals: RP Wade Davis
Considering Bryce Harper is set to hit the free agent market next year, it’s looking like now or never for this Nationals team to win the World Series. How about just winning a playoff series? The Nationals know this, and need to go all for 2018. Sean Doolittle will still be a Nat next year, but Brandon Kintzler is hitting the market, and GM Mike Rizzo wants to enter 2018 without bullpen concerns for a change. Others have suggested the Nats make a move for Yankees reliever Dellin Betances, but their top target should be Wade Davis. Davis shut down the Nationals in the NLDS, eliminating them from contention, and is one of baseball’s elite closers. Moving Doolittle to the 8th inning would give Washington one of the best back-end bullpens in baseball, even if its costly. There’s a good chance Davis resigns with the Cubs, but the Nationals would be wise to kick the tires on the All-Star closer.
