Spring Training is almost here. But there is still time for teams to make big moves and land big names in their rosters. However, some teams will have better cha ofnces landing the bigger names, and some teams have done more to prepare for the next season than others. Not to mention, much to the shock of a lot of experts and fans, Manny Machado and Bryce Harper do not have homes yet for 2019.
Here are some of the latest bids and signings yet to be made.
Image Courtesy of Chicago Tribune
The Chicago White Sox came off of a 2018 season they’d like to forget. Sox fans did not have a lot of be cheery for. But the picture is looking a little different, if not brighter. MLB.com reported that the White Sox have recently stitched up an eight-year, $250M offer for Manny Machado. This will be the first free agent signing for the 26-year old superstar. Bringing in Machado could beef up the infield both offensively and defensively. The White Sox have also been reinforcing their bullpen. including the signing Kelvin Herrera, and necessarily so. Last season, the White Sox pitching allowed the fifth most runs and the fifth highest ERA.
The Philadelphia Phillies have been busy this offseason as well. Making significant free agency pushes, the Phillies have added prominent weapons in their camp, including relief pitcher, David Robertson and veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen. Shortstop Jean Segura will always call Philadelphia home in 2019 via the Seattle Mariners fire sale. On top of that, Philly has been considered among the favorites to snag Bryce Harper. Hopefully, for Phillies fans, Harper will rock their colors next season.
The Washington Nationals have made splashes of their own. Washington have signed pitcher Patrick Corbin and Brian Dozier, along with others in recent weeks. It may be difficult for the Nationals to replace the offensive spark brought by Harper. But in time, that should not be an issue.
Besides Harper and Machado, great options still await a free agent signing. Not to mention several teams have not made moves to snag them. Here are some free agents and some possible landing that could benefit both team and player.
May 16, 2018; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) prepares to deliver a pitch during the ninth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports (also courtesy of NESN.com)
The most decorated relief pitcher among current actives, Kimbrel has a Hall-of-Fame resume wrapped nice and tight with a World Series ring with the Boston Red Sox. The 30-year old has plenty left to offer from the pitcher’s mound. These teams can benefit greatly from Kimbel’s talent and experience.
Colorado Rockies:
With Kyle Freeland and Craig Kimbrel, the Colorado Rockies will be firing on both offense and pitching. The Rockies are already climbing with each season. But to land Craig Kimbrel can take them even deeper in October.
Houston Astros
The Houston Astros have erupted in recent seasons. A testament to this was their pitching, which among the best in the majors, if not THE best. But with Charlie Morton no longer on board, a new name will have to step up to keep the dominance active. Kimbrel could do so in the reliever department.
Image Courtesy of Outfield Fly Rule
Markakis had a great year in 2018. He has earned himself his first All-Star selection, his first Silver-Slugger Award, and his third Golden Glove Award. Teams should make free agency pushes for Markakis, including…
Tampa Bay Rays
WIth their post-All-Star game performances from last season, the Tampa Bays Rays have become a team to watch for in 2019. Along with bringing in Charlie Morton, Markaskis can bring additional veteran leadership. The offensive fireworks may not increase significantly. But the productivity can yield improvement with the 35-year old taking a mentor role.
Chicago Cubs
Consistantly, the Chicago Cubs have stood among the best in the National League. Signing a veteran Markakis could give the offense another weapon, if the likes of Anthony Rizzo or Kris Bryant enter a slump. Markakis and Javier Baez blew up in 2018, and the Cubs could thrive on the momentum these two have built up.
Featured image courtesy of Pinstripe Alley
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