J.D. Martinez and Eric Hosmer are finally off the board, removing giant logs from the clogged-up free agent river. There’s still a mini army of unsigned players hoping their contract desires are met, though, while others are just longing for a major-league job.
Among the still-available free agents are several impact players who could easily change the outlook of any team. Here’s a look at where things stand for the best of those players, each of whom ranked among the top 18 in MLB Trade Rumors‘ free agent ranking.
JAKE ARRIETA
MLBTR Rank: No. 4
Latest rumour: The Philadelphia Phillies are having dialogue with Arrieta, Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reported on Tuesday, but the club prefers a shorter deal than what the right-hander is seeking.
Analysis: The Phillies have put themselves in an enviable position as they turn the corner from a rebuild. The big market club owns a projected 2018 payroll of just $63 million and has the ability to take on hefty future commitments, whether it’s from the remaining players in this free agent crop or next off-season’s standout class. The question the club is likely pondering with Arrieta, who turns 32 in March, is if he’s worth a lengthy investment given his steady regression since 2015.
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MIKE MOUSTAKAS
MLBTR Rank: No. 6
Latest rumour: Several reports indicate the Royals have moved on from the idea of re-signing Moustakas. Kansas City general manager Dayton Moore appeared to give credence to those during a news conference in which he spoke highly about third base hopefuls Cheslor Cuthbert and Hunter Dozier.
Analysis: Atlanta and St. Louis have been mentioned as potential landing spots for Moustakas, while the New York Yankees have been reportedly circling to see if they can get the third basemen on a bargain, one-year pillow contract. If the 29-year-old does end up signing such a deal anywhere, it would represent a huge blow to all free agents. After all, he posted career-highs in home runs (38), slugging percentage (.521) and OPS (.835) last season; it’s hard to imagine how much better he can be this year.
LANCE LYNN
MLBTR Rank: No. 9
Latest rumour: The Baltimore Orioles engaged in discussions with Lynn, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported earlier this month. But Baltimore has since inked Andrew Cashner and Chris Tillman for their rotation, meaning Lynn will probably have to look elsewhere.
Analysis: Now that Yu Darvish is no longer a free agent, one figures that it’s only a matter of time before right-handers Lynn and Alex Cobb (see below) sign. With spring training underway, perhaps a pitching injury could push a contender toward a deal with either.
GREG HOLLAND
MLBTR Rank: No. 10
Latest rumour: Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that Holland rejected a three-year, $52 million extension from the Colorado Rockies, who then turned around and signed fellow closer Wade Davis to the same deal. Holland’s market seems to have shrivelled to the point where he may regret that decision for a long time.
Analysis: The right-hander saved 41 games and was dominant for most of 2017, his first campaign following a return from Tommy John surgery. The Cardinals have an uncertain ninth-inning situation and represent the best fit for Holland, 32, but his price will likely need to come down before the two sides can agree.
ALEX COBB
MLBTR Rank: No. 11
Latest rumour: The Chicago Cubs wanted Cobb at the outset of the winter, but moved on because of his asking price. Several teams have since been linked to the second-tier starter, including the Yankees and Brewers. Also of note is the Twins, who Heyman reports are weighing the addition of another rotation option. Minnesota just acquired Jake Odorizzi, so we’ll see if the right-hander can potentially recruit his former Rays teammate.
Analysis: Cobb’s strikeout numbers have dipped since a return from Tommy John and he has never been the most durable pitcher, but there’s still a lot to like about him. He’d be at least a No. 3 in most rotations and that kind of talent won’t linger for much longer on the free agent market.
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LOGAN MORRISON
MLBTR Rank: No. 15
Latest rumour: With Hosmer signed, Morrison is the next-best first baseman still available. The Royals need one and could consider the Kansas City native. “We’ve always admired his ability,” GM Moore told the Kansas City Star recently. “But … I go back to the economic part of it. That’s very real to us. That’s very real.”
Analysis: Like Moustakas, Morrison has to be wondering what more he has to do to secure a multi-year deal. Sure, power is easier to find nowadays, but last year, in his age 29 season, the left-handed-hitting slugger bashed 38 homers and posted a 135 OPS-plus.
