MLB Free Agent Predictions 2021

J.T. Realmuto
Catcher/ Age: 30/ Career: MIA ’14-’18, PHI ’19-’20
Achievements: 2x All-Star, Gold Glove, 2x Silver Slugger
From: Philadelphia/ To: NY Mets/ Contract: 6 years, $156m (1 year, $30m PO for 2026)
Other Potential Options: Philadelphia, Toronto, St. Louis, LA Angels, Washington
2020 Stats: .266 AVG, 11 HR, 32 RBI, .349 OBP

Leading off we have the top free agent bat on the entire market, all-star catcher J.T. Realmuto. After shining in Miami and later looking stellar in his two years in Philly, J.T. is set to hit the free agent market reportedly looking for a historic contract for a catcher. Realmuto can do it all both defensively and with the bat, and at only 30 will demand a 5-7 year contract. Any team who is in need of a catcher will be in the sweepstakes for J.T. including, in my opinion, the Phillies, Mets, Blue Jays, and Angels being the top suitors. The Phillies will be the most pressured to re-sign the star, especially with franchise cornerstone Bryce Harper advocating for them to re-sign him. But I think with the new ownership the Mets emerge as the highest likelihood to give J.T. what he wants. Maybe it’s bias, maybe it’s optimism, but the Mets have not had a consistent franchise catcher since Mike Piazza and later Paul Lo Duca, well over a decade ago. The main focus this offseason will be on signing Realmuto and some more pitching depth for the Mets and I think they land their guy.

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Yadier Molina
Catcher/ Age: 38/ Career: STL ’04-’20
Achievements: 2x WS Champion, 9x All-Star, 9x Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, 4x Platinum Glove
From: St. Louis/ To: Washington/ Contract: 1 year, $6m
Other Potential Options: St. Louis, NY Yankees
2020 Stats: .262 AVG, 4 HR, 16 RBI, .303 OBP

Well this is an interesting one, heading into his 18th season in the big leagues, future hall of famer Yadier Molina is set to hit the market. Potentially looking for the final contract of his playing career, rumors have circulated that Yadi and the Cardinals are on different terms with keeping him in St. Louis. Molina has spent his entire career with the Cards, winning two championships and being one of the most consistent and dominating catchers of his era. Teams that aren’t necessarily looking to break the bank on a catcher but would like to sign one will look Yadi’s way as the next best option behind Realmuto. The Cards will obviously be in contention to re-sign their star but with Kurt Suzuki set to hit the market, I can see the Nats going after Molina. The 2019 champs will definitely need another catching option to go along with Yan Gomes and Molina seems like a great fit to try to compete for another championship in a low pressure role. But if the Yankees decide to move on from Gary Sanchez, look out for them to be a sleeper to bring in the former perennial all-star.

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D.J. LeMahieu
Second Base/First Base/ Age: 32/ Career: CHC ’11, COL ’12-’18, NYY ’19-’20
Achievements: 3x All-Star, 1x AL/ 1x NL Batting Champion, 3x Gold Glove, 2x Silver Slugger
From: NY Yankees/ To: NY Yankees/ Contract: 4 years, $80m
Other Potential Options: Arizona, Boston, Philadelphia
2020 Stats: .364 AVG, 10 HR, 27 RBI, .421 OBP

Probably the most consistent hitter on the market this offseason, LeMahieu looks to cash out after having to settle for a 2-year deal just two years ago. The Yankees came away with one of the biggest bargains in the past few years when they landed D.J. in the offseason of 2018. He would end up leading the league in hitting this past year and emerge as the star bat in a crowded Yankees lineup. Now ready to hit the market again at only 32, D.J. is going to demand around $20m a year in my opinion, for about 3 or 4 years. The Yankees can’t afford to lose D.J. although there will be many teams looking to bring in the slugger. I think the Yankees will plan to trade Andujar this offseason and re-sign LeMahieu, creating an infield of Voit, D.J., Gleyber, and Urshela. A couple of dark horses to look out for can be the Yankees rival the Red Sox who can try to create a middle infield of Bogaerts and LeMahieu. Also, with Didi set to be a free agent, the Phillies might look to sign D.J. if they can’t bring Realmuto back, slotting the slugger in at 2B and moving Segura to SS.

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Tommy La Stella
Second Base/ Age: 32/ Career: ATL ’14, CHC ’15-’18, LAA ’19-’20, OAK ’20
Achievements: WS Champion, 1x All-Star
From: Oakland/ To: Oakland/ Contract: 2 years, $12m
Other Potential Options: Miami, Washington, Toronto, CHI White Sox
2020 Stats: .281 AVG, 5 HR, 25 RBI, .369 OBP

One of the better slash hitting infielders in the league set to hit the market for the first time is Tommy La Stella. Although Tommy tends to bounce around from team to team while dealing with many injuries, he still will be a decent target for a few teams this offseason. After spending a few years as a utility infielder for the 2016 champion Cubs, La Stella joined the Angels as the starting 2B for a year and a half and was traded to the A’s at this years deadline. Providing some productive hitting in the A’s lineup, I think La Stella needs to be a top priority for Oakland to bring back. We all know the A’s don’t spend much money, but with both La Stella and Semien set to be free agents, they’re going to need to re-sign one of them to piece together their starting infield. La Stella will probably not demand much, maybe a 2-year deal around $6m-$8m a year. I think Oakland will retain him, but if not, look for the Marlins, Nats, Jays, and White Sox to be interested in him for infield depth.

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Didi Gregorius
Short Stop/ Age: 31/ Career: CIN ’12, ARI ’13-’14, NYY ’15-’19, PHI ’20
From: Philadelphia/ To: Philadelphia/ Contract: 2 years, $24m
Other Potential Options: LA Angels, Cincinnati
2020 Stats: .284 AVG, 10 HR, 40 RBI, .339 OBP

Coming off one of his most productive seasons with the bat, Didi is set to hit the free agent market yet again. After signing a 1-year deal with the Phillies last offseason, Gregorius produced as one of Philadelphia’s most consistent hitters while slugging 10 bombs and flashing the leather well at short stop. Heading into his age-31 season, Didi is set to hit a market where not too many teams will be looking to sign a long-term SS. Although he gets big hits and is one of the better middle infielders in baseball, most teams have their SS position already set which will be a downside for Didi and the rest of the SS’s on the market his offseason. Didi might only have a few teams truly interested and a reunion with the Phillies I feel like will be the most likely occurrence, especially if they can’t re-sign Realmuto. Gregorius will probably get close to the same money he landed last offseason but longer than a 1-year deal. A 2-year plus a team option is a fair assumption this year for him with the Angels and Reds also having interest to bring him in. Also, I don’t think the Yankees will have any interest in bringing back Gregorius despite reports.

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Andrelton Simmons
Short Stop/ Age: 31/ Career: ATL ’12-’15, LAA ’16-’20
Achievements: 4x Gold Glove, Platinum Glove
From: LA Angels/ To: NY Yankees/ Contract: 1 year, $6m
Other Potential Options: LA Angels, Philadelphia
2020 Stats: .297 AVG, 0 HR, 10 RBI, .346 OBP

One of the best infield gloves across baseball over the past decade, we have Andrelton Simmons hitting the market. Throughout his career, Simmons has always been an up-and-down hitter, getting much better with the bat as he’s gotten older into his Angels tenure. Now hitting the market, I don’t really believe there is going to be high suitors for the veteran besides for defensive depth roles. As I said with Didi, most teams have their franchise SS and the only teams that will really be shopping this offseason will be for depth. Especially in Simmons’ case, several teams will look his way to be a defensive piece more than an everyday option. With many people around the organization questioning if Gleyber Torres is a good enough defensive SS to play everyday, Simmons to the Yankees could be a perfect fit. Although Torres’ bat speaks for itself, the Yankees have shown in the past they like to sign depth players even without a specific role for them. I think the Yanks will be high on Andrelton to give them depth in case Torres’ defensive woes continue. A reunion with the Angels also can’t be counted out, as well as the Phillies if Didi doesn’t return.

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Marcus Semien
Short Stop/ Age: 30/ Career: CWS ’13-’14, OAK ’15-’20
From: Oakland/ To: Texas/ Contract: 3 years, $42m (1 year, $14m PO for 2023)
Other Potential Options: Oakland, LA Angels
2020 Stats: .223 AVG, 7 HR, 23 RBI, .305 OBP

Here’s one that will take a few different transactions to make into a reality. As I’ve been saying, not many teams are truly looking to shop for starting SS this offseason, but Texas is in an interesting situation. With a youth movement brewing and several veterans still under contract, Texas might look to trade some of their big faces to add young star power to their rebuilding team. Filling up the SS hole in Texas over the past decade has been Elvis Andrus, a staple in the organization who is beginning the down-slope of his career. I think the Rangers will look to trade Andrus and Rougned Odor to try to bring back whatever young prospects they can. One thing the Rangers don’t have is a future SS, although they have a lot of young fire power in the OF. If Odor and Andrus are gone, the Rangers can bring in a veteran in Semien to hold down SS for a while and move the teams #7 prospect Anderson Tejada to 2B. Semien brings a great glove and a much improved bat to the table, getting better and better as he’s gotten older and even finishing in 3rd place in the AL MVP voting in 2019. There’s a lot that has to happen for this so I know it’s bold, but I have to get a little creative with the lack of SS needs out there. A reunion in Oakland could be another possibility if the team decides they would want to pay the contract he might demand.

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Justin Turner
Third Base/ Age: 36/ Career: BAL ’09-’10, NYM ’10-’13, LAD ’14-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, 1x All-Star, NLCS MVP
From: LA Dodgers/ To: LA Dodgers/ Contract: 2 years, $18m (1 year, $10m TO for 2022)
Other Potential Options: Washington, Toronto
2020 Stats: .307 AVG, 4 HR, 23 RBI, .400 OBP

The story of Justin Turner is a wild one and at 36-years-old he was finally able to raise his first World Series title, but not without a little controversy. Bouncing around as a utility player for the O’s and Mets, Turner latched on to the Dodgers and has become one of their most consistent hitters throughout the teams competitive years the last few seasons. After losing in the World Series in both 2017 and 2018, Turner and the Dodgers took advantage of the shortened season and won their first franchise championship since 1988. In doing so, Turner became a record holder as one of the most dominant postseason performers in Dodgers’ history. The controversy followed as Turner was removed in the middle of Game 6 after a positive COVID-19 test, but continued to celebrate with the team at the end of the game. No matter how you feel on the matter, Turner is set to hit the market this offseason with a lot of questions. I have Justin returning to the Dodgers although I’m really not sure they’ll try their hardest to bring him back with the young talent they have in the infield. The Nationals and Blue Jays are two other teams that could use 3B help and might look at Turner.

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George Springer
Center Field/ Age: 31/ Career: HOU ’14-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, WS MVP, 3x All-Star, 2x Silver Slugger
From: Houston/ To: St. Louis/ Contract: 6 years, $144m
Other Potential Options: Houston, NY Mets, Boston, Colorado, CHI Cubs
2020 Stats: .265 AVG, 14 HR, 35 RBI

As the top outfield free agent target in this years offseason, George Springer is going to have a huge market to be someone’s future CF. A tremendous two-way outfielder, Springer has been nothing short of a winner since his debut with the Astros back in 2014. Now hitting the market for the first time in his career at only 31, he’ll demand nothing short of a 5-7 year deal in my opinion. Although many teams will undoubtedly be checking in on the slugger, there are a few teams that are legitimate candidates to land him on a lucrative contract. The top of those being the St. Louis Cardinals who are in desperate need of an outfield bat and could be ready to hand Springer a blank check. With a core of Lane Thomas, Harrison Bader, and Dexter Fowler this past season, the Cardinals struggled producing anything offensive from their outfield core as well as the rest of the team. I don’t think there’s a single team out there with the funds to sign Springer that need him more than the Cardinals. I do believes the Astros will make a strong push to bring back their star as well, and with new ownership the Mets will be a big player too, especially if they don’t land Realmuto.

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Marcell Ozuna
Left Field/ Age: 30/ Career: MIA ’13-’17, STL ’18-’19, ATL ’20
Achievements: 2x All-Star, Gold Glove, 2x Silver Slugger, NL Homerun leader, NL RBI leader
From: Atlanta/ To: Atlanta/ Contract: 4 years, $88m
Other Potential Options: Houston, Texas
2020 Stats: .338 AVG, 18 HR, 56 RBI, .431 OBP

After an absolutely monster season in the shortened 2020 campaign, Ozuna is set to hit free agency heading into his age-30 season. There isn’t a better time for Marcell to hit the market after leading the NL in homeruns and RBI’s this season in Atlanta. At only 30, Ozuna is going to demand nothing short of a 4-5 year deal around $20m-$25m per year. Although Ozuna’s bat has gotten better and better with age, his glove hasn’t and after winning a gold glove in 2017 he has been nothing short of a liability in LF. With the DH moving to the National League this past season, Ozuna saw a lot of time in that position as Adam Duvall manned LF. There is a possibility that the DH doesn’t return next season, but all speculation points towards it coming back in 2022 and beyond as part of the new CBA. Even if Ozuna is forced to play the outfield for at least one season, the Braves need to bring back their slugger who helped bring the organization back to the NLCS for the first time in almost 20 years. A few teams will be legitimate contenders besides Atlanta, as Houston will have openings in the outfield with Springer, Brantley, and Reddick all on the market. Texas can also be a player to add the slugger to their lineup beside Joey Gallo.

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Michael Brantley
Left Field/ Age: 34/ Career: CLE ’09-’18, HOU ’19-’20
Achievements: 4x All-Star, Silver Slugger
From: Houston/ To: Miami/ Contract: 2 years, $20m
Other Potential Options: Houston, Minnesota
2020 Stats: .300 AVG, 5 HR, 22 RBI, .364 OBP

Another interesting one that can spice up this free agency, Miami is a sleeper for many players on the market. Brantley hits the market yet again after his two-year deal expired with Houston, looking to latch on to possibly his last multi-year contract. Heading into his age-34 season, Brantley has been nothing but consistent throughout his career with a .297 career average and four all-star appearances. After a surprisingly competitive season for the Marlins resulting in their first playoff appearance since 2003, they’ll undoubtedly be looking to add veterans to their young core. After adding Starling Marte to the squad at 2020’s deadline, the addition of Michael Brantley can put together a solid core of Marte, Dickerson/Sierra, and Brantley/Harrison in the outfield. A signing of Brantley can be even more likely for the Marlins if the DH stays in the National League as the team could opt to put Brantley at DH and move Jesus Aguilar to 1B. Although a several amount of competitors will be knocking on Brantley’s door, I feel the Marlins can be a real option. The Astros and Twins also could look to bring the slugger in.

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Jackie Bradley Jr.
Center Field/ Age: 31/ Career: BOS ’13-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, ALCS MVP, 1x All-Star, Gold Glove
From: Boston/ To: NY Mets/ Contract: 1 year, $8m
Other Potential Options: Houston, Cleveland, St. Louis
2020 Stats: .283 AVG, 7 HR, 22 RBI, .364 OBP

Hitting the market for the first time in his career we have World Series champ and one of the best outfield gloves in baseball in Jackie Bradley Jr. Coming off one of his better seasons with the bat in the shortened 2020, the Red Sox looked depleted and I believe are ready to move on from JBJ. Luckily there are going to be a good amount of teams on the market looking for a CF upgrade and Bradley’s glove speaks for itself. At only 31, something tells me Bradley might sign late after most of the big names go as teams who miss out on Springer or other sluggers will give him looks. This might result in a one-year deal around $8m. I have the Mets landing the Gold Glove outfielder as they need a defensive upgrade badly in CF with Marisnick set to hit the market. If the Mets miss out on George Springer, they will no doubt go after Bradley as a backup option. Other teams that can use CF help are the Indians, Astros if they lose Springer, and St. Louis if they can’t land Springer. All of these teams will undoubtedly have interest in Jackie.

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Jonathan Villar
Center Field/Second Base/ Age: 30/ Career: HOU ’13-’15, MIL ’16-’18, BAL ’18-’19, MIA ’20, TOR ’20
Achievements: MLB Steals Leader
From: Toronto/ To: Boston/ Contract: 2 years, $17m
Other Potential Options: Detroit, CHI Cubs
2020 Stats: .232 AVG, 2 HR, 15 RBI, 16 SB

Another speedster to hit the market this offseason we have 2B/CF Jonathan Villar. Bouncing around for a few different teams while being a staple top of the lineup threat throughout baseball, Villar hits the market looking to change scenery and start something fresh. After starting this past season with the Marlins, the career 2B/SS was taught to play CF to accommodate young prospect Isan Diaz, who ironically opted out of the season. He was dealt at the trade deadline to Toronto and had a difficult time producing anything with the bat. The market should be solid for the former stolen base leader, as he’ll be a cheap and young option to man 2B and potentially play some OF. Boston could be a perfect fit, with the likelihood they lose both Jose Peraza and Jackie Bradley Jr., Villar can either play CF or 2B with youngster Michael Chavis able to swap between both positions as well. As the Red Sox rebuild they don’t seem to be too in the market for a lot of players, but a guy like Villar could be right in their wheelhouse to add.

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Nelson Cruz
Designated Hitter/ Age: 40/ Career: MIL ’05, TEX ’06-’13, BAL ’14, SEA ’15-’18, MIN ’19-’20
Achievements: 6x All-Star, ALCS MVP, 4x Silver Slugger, AL Homerun leader, AL RBI leader
From: Minnesota/ To: CHI White Sox/ Contract: 2 years, $16m (1 year, $8m TO for 2022)
Other Potential Options: Minnesota
2020 Stats: .303 AVG, 16 HR, 33 RBI, .397 OBP

The top DH in this year free agent class we have the slugger Nelson Cruz. Seeming to just get better and better with age, Cruz is heading into his age-40 season coming off another .300+ hitting season with 16 bombs in the shortened campaign. The most lethal bat in the Twins lineup this past year, Cruz will draw interest from some teams to be the primary DH. At 40, Cruz has shown no sign of slowing down and as he doesn’t need to be worried about playing the field, he reportedly will demand a 2-year contract. The White Sox and Twins are my two legitimate choices on landing the veteran, as both teams can use a DH for their already potent lineups. A change of scenery with new manager Tony La Russa might be the top pick for Nelson as he looks to make one last push for a World Series. But don’t count out the Twins on trying to prioritize keeping their star bat.

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Shin-Soo Choo
Designated Hitter/ Age: 38/ Career: SEA ’05-’06, CLE ’06-’12, CIN ’13, TEX ’14-’20
Achievement: 1x All-Star
From: Texas/ To: Toronto/ Contract: 1 year, $5m
Other Potential Options: San Francisco, Detroit, Tampa Bay
2020 Stats: .236 AVG, 5 HR, 15 RBI, .323 OBP

Another older DH option on the market will be veteran Shin-Soo Choo. Choo has been one of the league’s more consistent bats over the past decade, and as his tenure in Texas looks to be up, he’ll try to latch on to a contract as DH depth more than anything. There’s no doubt Choo’s numbers are on the decline and only playing in about half of the Rangers games in 2020, he’s more of a bench piece than anything else. A few teams should definitely draw interest in the veteran slugger and one of the top ones could be the Blue Jays, who may look to add another veteran bat to their young lineup. Other teams on money crunches such as the Tigers, Rays, and Giants could opt for Choo as a safe and cheap option.

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Trevor Bauer
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 30/ Career: ARI ’12, CLE ’13-’19, CIN ’19-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star, NL ERA Leader
From: Cincinnati/ To: LA Angels/ Contract: 5 years, $105m (2 year, $50m PO for 2024)
Other Potential Options: Cincinnati, NY Mets, NY Yankees, Houston, Boston, Philadelphia
2020 Stats: 5-4, 1.73 ERA, 100 Ks, 0.79 WHIP

The top pitching free agent target this offseason we have former Indian and Red Trevor Bauer. Bauer has sure made a name for himself over the past several years across the league, both for good and bad reasons. But there’s no denying the dominance he showed in this shortened season, leading the NL in ERA and WHIP and eclipsing 100 strikeouts in just 11 starts. Now ready to hit the market for the first time heading into his age-30 season, Bauer will be pursued by nearly anyone with pitching needs and money to spend. Although Bauer expects to get a lot more, I don’t see him signing for much more than $100m over 5 years. Teams are in a crunch with finances due to the lost wages during the season and Bauer’s inconsistent play throughout his career might come back to bite him. Regardless, there are teams desperate for a dominant ace and will give Bauer something solid to be just that. Both the Mets and Yankees have needs in their rotations and will be interested but probably won’t break the bank enough to get him. Other big spenders like the Astros, Phillies, and Red Sox probably will all schedule meetings with him but fall short as well. I believe it’s the Angels, in complete desperation for an ace, who will land him after missing out on Gerrit Cole last offseason.

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Marcus Stroman
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 30/ Career: TOR ’14-’19, NYM ’19
Achievements: 1x All-Star, Gold Glove
From: NY Mets/ To: NY Mets/ Contract: 4 years, $72m (1 year, $18m PO for 2024)
Other Potential Options: NY Yankees, CHI White Sox, Houston, CHI Cubs, San Diego
2020 Stats: DNP – SAT OUT

The next top free agent pitcher we have on the market is Mets’ right hander Marcus Stroman. Entering the open market for the first time in his career, Stroman has been a dominant force when healthy. After being the headlining arm for a competitive Blue Jays squad throughout his first few years, Stro was dealt to the Mets in 2019 where he helped aid a second half run resulting in a close finish for the Wild Card. Heading into 2020, Stroman decided to opt out of the season in his contract year, instead focusing on fully healing from injury ahead of 2021. Several teams will be on Stroman’s radar as the righty is a very close next best behind Bauer on the market. At only 30, Marcus will definitely demand a 4-5 year deal, although I think he will fall short of the money he desires. Both the Mets and Yanks will be top bidders for the New York native and competitive squads like the White Sox, Astros, Cubs, and Padres will all be in the mix. In the end, I think it’ll be the Mets who come away with re-signing Stroman, being in desperate need for another reliable arm in the rotation. With budget restraints, teams might be skeptical on handing over a nine-figure contract so I think anywhere in the $15m-$19m per year range will be most likely for Stroman.

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Mike Leake
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 33/ Career: CIN ’10-’15, SF ’15, STL ’16-’17, SEA ’17-’19, ARI ’19
Achievements: Gold Glove
From: Arizona/ To: Milwaukee/ Contract: 2 years, $10m
Other Potential Options: San Diego, San Francisco, Boston
2020 Stats: DNP – SAT OUT

One of the top depth arms in this years free agent class we have former Diamondback Mike Leake. Leake has put together a very mediocre career throughout the years, posting consistent 4.00+ ERA seasons. After signing a 5-year, $80m contract in the 2016 offseason with the Cardinals, Leake has bounced around and ended up in Arizona where he decided to opt out of the 2020 season. Leake’s $15m 2021 option was declined by the Diamondbacks, resulting in a $5m buy-out and freedom to hit the market. Looked at as a decent 4th or 5th arm for competitive teams, Leake should get a few takers drawing interest on maybe a 1 or 2 year deal. Milwaukee is a team in desperate need of rotation help alongside the likes of Brandon Woodruff and Adrian Houser. I think the Brew Crew could land the righty on a generous contract, while the Red Sox, Giants and Padres all could make offers.

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Corey Kluber
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 35/ Career: CLE ’11-’19, TEX ’20
Achievements: 2x AL Cy Young, 3x All-Star, 2x AL Wins leader, AL ERA leader
From: Texas/ To: NY Yankees/ Contract: 1 year, $12m
Other Potential Options: Boston, Cincinnati, CHI White Sox, NY Mets
2020 Stats: 1 GS, 1 IP, 0 ER, 1 K

A not so surprising add to the list of free agent pitching targets we have the veteran Corey Kluber. Probably the most accomplished pitcher hitting the market, Kluber shined during his prime with the Indians, putting up 2 Cy Young campaigns as well as a trip to the World Series in 2016. Kluber became known as one of the best big game pitchers over this past decade, and as long as he stayed healthy he remained a perennial star. Over the last couple of years injuries have caught up with the right hander and he was eventually dealt to the Rangers before the 2020 season. Looking to make a comeback, Kluber couldn’t make it past 1 inning until injuries took him out for the rest of the year. The Rangers declined his $18m option, and heading into his age-35 season, Kluber will look to latch on to a new team. Now I don’t see a better opportunity than the Yankees for Kluber, a squad who is right on the fringe of a World Series and needs another arm. With Tanaka and Paxton set to hit the market, the Yanks will look to add an extra piece to a rotation of Cole, Severino, Garcia, and Montgomery. A 1-year contract with the Yankees in an attempt to make one last comeback is the perfect scenario for both Kluber and New York.

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Charlie Morton
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 37/ Career: ATL ’08, PIT ’09-’15, PHI ’16, HOU ’17-’18, TB ’19-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, 2x All-Star
From: Tampa Bay/ To: Tampa Bay/ Contract: 2 years, $20m (1 year, $10m TO for 2022)
Other Potential Options: NY Yankees, Philadelphia, Boston
2020 Stats: 2-2, 4.74 ERA, 42 Ks, 1.39 WHIP

Another veteran pitcher hitting the market after his team option was declined is Charlie Morton. Morton’s career has been one of the best stories of getting better with age, as the right hander seemed to have a total renaissance after joining the Astros in 2017. Since then he won a World Series and has helped aid a Rays rotation alongside Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow. In a very cheap move, that is not too surprising of the Rays, Tampa declined Morton’s $15m option for 2021. Regardless, the team and Morton seem to show mutual interest on agreeing to a re-structured deal to remain in Tampa Bay. But the Rays are definitely running a risk, as there are several teams that can badly use Morton and could offer him more than the Rays are willing. The Yankees, Phillies, and Red Sox are all top spenders that could look to add depth to their rotations. Ultimately, I do believe it will be the Rays that bring back the righty, more so because at 37 I don’t believe Morton will want to join a new squad yet again that is further out of contention.

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James Paxton
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: SEA ’13-’18, NYY ’19-’20
Achievements: No-Hitter
From: NY Yankees/ To: CHI Cubs/ Contract: 3 years, $36m
Other Potential Options: NY Yankees, CHI White Sox
2020 Stats: 1-1, 6.64 ERA, 26 Ks, 1.48 WHIP

One of the more underrated and consistent pitchers in baseball, we have James Paxton hitting the market. Since entering the league in 2013, Paxton has kept it dominant posting nothing more than a 3.90 ERA up until this season. Injuries have plagued the left-hander throughout his career, and in 2020 they emerged again, forcing him to only start in five games. Now on the market, it seems the Yankees are ready to move on from the lefty, and at only 32, I think he can still land a multi-year contract. Several teams will definitely look at Paxton as one of the better starting options on the market. Although the Yankees and White Sox could definitely pursue him to add to the rotation, I think it’s the Cubs that come away with him. After declining Jon Lester’s option for 2021, the Cubs could look to re-up with a new and younger left-hander. Paxton, alongside the likes of Yu Darvish and Kyle Hendricks at the top of that rotation would be a fantastic addition for the Cubs.

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Masahiro Tanaka
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: NYY ’14-’20
Achievements: 2x All-Star
From: NY Yankees/ To: Atlanta/ Contract: 2 years, $16m
Other Potential Options: Philadelphia, NY Yankees, Minnesota, San Diego
2020 Stats: 3-3, 3.56 ERA, 44 Ks, 1.17 WHIP

Another Yankee arm set to hit the market, is the 32-year-old Masahiro Tanaka. After signing with the Yankees from Japan in 2014, Tanaka has been pretty consistent as one of the better middle of the rotation arms in the game. Battling injuries early in his MLB career, Tanaka put together a pretty solid tenure in New York, being one of the teams better big game pitchers as well. Now set to be a free agent it looks like Tanaka will try to latch on to a new team with the Yanks headed in a different direction. He’ll undoubtedly draw interest from a few teams including the Phillies and Twins who can use an extra arm in their rotations. I think the Braves will end up snagging Tanaka to be a solid third or fourth starter in a rotation headlined by youngsters Max Fried and Ian Anderson. With Mike Soroka slated to miss probably the entire 2021 season, Tanaka could land a 1 or 2 year deal with Atlanta to take his place.

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Jake Odorizzi
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 31/ Career: KC ’12, TB ’13-’17, MIN ’18-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star
From: Minnesota/ To: San Diego/ Contract: 1 year, $8.5m
Other Potential Options: Minnesota, Boston
2020 Stats: 0-1, 6.59 ERA, 12 Ks, 1.39 WHIP

Another younger depth arm to add to the free agent list we have Twins’ right hander Jake Odorizzi. Jake struggled a bit in 2020, only being able to make four starts due to injury after putting up a career best 2019 campaign that resulted in an all-star appearance. Ready to hit the market, Odorizzi is going to be a good addition for any team looking for a somewhat cheap middle of the rotation guy. The Twins will definitely make an all out pursuit to bring him back, as Jake served as the teams clear number two starting option up until the addition of Kenta Maeda. But they definitely won’t want to spend too much with only one starting slot open in 2021 alongside Jose Berrios, Michael Pineda, Kenta Maeda, and Randy Dobnak. I think it’s the Padres that land Odorizzi to add to their starting rotation depth. Padres can look to make a deep run, adding Odorizzi to a rotation of Mike Clevinger, Zach Davies, Chris Paddack, and Dinelson Lamet, with top prospect Mackenzie Gore knocking on the door.

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Liam Hendriks
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: MIN ’11-’13, TOR ’14/’15, KC ’14, OAK ’16-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star, AL Reliever of the Year
From: Oakland/ To: NY Mets/ Contract: 3 years, $36m
Other Potential Options: CHI Cubs, Washington, St. Louis, Philadelphia
2020 Stats: 14 SVs, 1.78 ERA, 37 Ks, 0.67 WHIP

Leading off the stacked list of closing options on the market this offseason is Oakland’s ninth inning man Liam Hendriks. After working as an opener/long relief arm for the A’s, Hendriks stepped in as the closer for the team full-time in 2019 and did not disappoint. Being absolutely dominant, he followed up in 2020 the same way, winning the AL Reliever of the Year award. Now on the market, Hendriks is going to be the most sought after closer for every team that needs a boost in their ninth-inning. But with there being such a ridiculous amount of dominant options on the market, Hendriks won’t be setting any records with his new contract. Heading into his age-32 season, a 3-year deal around $10m-$14m a year seems reasonable based on past closer contracts in baseball. Big spenders like the Cubs, Nats, Cards, and Phillies all could use a boost in their relief options and will be of high interest in Hendriks’ sweepstakes. But I think it will be the Mets, who can afford a high price for a reliever with new ownership, who land the righty. With the resurgence of Edwin Diaz in 2020, I believe the Mets can take on Hendriks as a form of insurance, creating a back of the bullpen of Diaz, Hendriks, Lugo, and Betances. If Diaz is back to his old shape in 2021 as well, he and Hendriks could run a closer by committee.

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Kirby Yates
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 34/ Career: TB ’14-’15, NYY ’16, LAA ’17, SD ’17-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star, MLB Saves leader
From: San Diego/ To: Philadelphia/ Contract: 2 years, $25m (1 year, $13m TO for 2022)
Other Potential Options: San Diego, Atlanta, Boston, CHI Cubs
2020 Stats: 6 GP, 12.46 ERA, 8 Ks, 2.54 WHIP

Up next on the closer radar we have former Padres’ lockdown man Kirby Yates. After bouncing around the league through some unsuccessful trips, Yates latched on to the Padres in 2017. By 2018, he dominated as the set up man, and when Brad Hand was dealt to Cleveland at the deadline, he stepped in and continued to dominate as the closer. As the full-time closer in 2019 Yates led all of baseball with 41 saves and an insane 1.19 ERA. 2020 was plagued with injuries although the Padres were able to find relief in Trevor Rosenthal’s shocking resurgence. Because of this, I think the Padres will elect to go with the younger Rosenthal as their future closer and let Yates walk. He will immediately be flushed with offers, as many teams might look at him as even the best closing option on the market. Bullpen-needing teams like the Cubs and Red Sox should definitely make a run, and even Atlanta might take a look. But I think it’ll be the Phillies, who have struggled in a historic way with their bullpen over the last couple of years, that go all in to sign Yates as their closer.

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Brad Hand
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 31/ Career: MIA ’11-’15, SD ’16-’18, CLE ’18-’20
Achievements: 3x All-Star, AL Saves Leader
From: Cleveland/ To: Minnesota/ Contract: 3 years, $40m (1 year, $12m PO in 2023)
Other Potential Options: Boston, LA Angels, Philadelphia, CHI White Sox, CHI Cubs
2020 Stats: 16 SVs, 2.05 ERA, 29 Ks, 0.77 WHIP

Another elite closer on the market this offseason we have Brad Hand. In a shocking move, the Indians decided to decline Hand’s $15m team option for 2021 and let him walk as a free agent. Arguably the most consistent closer in baseball over the past few seasons, Hand broke out in 2017 for the Padres. He was dealt to the Indians in the 2018 deadline, and although showing flashes of struggle at times, Hand’s numbers speak for themselves with his time in Cleveland. Now on the free agent market, he’ll be one of the most sought after additions, although some teams might be thrown off by his reported injury issues. Those issues potentially being a reason the Indians let the closer walk, I still believe there are too many teams in such desperate need for a consistent closer for him not to go for a lot. Heading into only his age-31 season, I believe the Red Sox, Angels, Cubs and White Sox will all make offers, and even the Phillies if they miss out on Hendriks or Yates. But the Twins, who ran a closer by committee all through 2020, could be the team to spend big to bolster their ‘pen. As a little jab at the Indians in the process, I love the idea of Hand as a Twin.

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Alex Colomé
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: TB ’13-’18, SEA ’18, CWS ’19-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star, AL Saves leader
From: CHI White Sox/ To: Miami/ Contract: 2 years, $18m
Other Potential Options: CHI White Sox, Boston, LA Angels, Arizona
2020 Stats: 12 SVs, 0.81 ERA, 16 Ks, 0.94 WHIP

One of the more interesting and less sought after guys on the market is Alex Colome. Coming off of a career year in the shortened 2020 season, posting a sub-1.00 ERA, Colome has proven he’s one of the more consistent closers across baseball over the last few seasons. Ready to hit the market, he’ll definitely get looks from several teams, especially teams that are looking for a cheap closer and others that miss out on Hendriks, Yates, or Hand. The White Sox seem like an obvious suitor to bring him back, but with the emergence of rookie flame-thrower Garrett Crochet, I’m not sure they’ll be in the market to spend much on Colome. The Angels, Red Sox, and Diamondbacks are all teams in need of a closer that could look for a cheaper option like Colome. But a sleeper to watch out for could be the Miami Marlins, who will look to spend a bit this offseason and could use a closer. Colome seems like a really good fit in Miami as he has plenty of experience playing in Florida after years with Tampa.

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Mark Melancon
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 36/ Career: NYY ’09-’10, HOU ’10-’11, BOS ’12, PIT ’13-’16, WAS ’16, SF ’17-’19, ATL ’19-’20
Achievements: 3x All-Star, NL Reliever of the Year, NL Saves leader
From: Atlanta/ To: Atlanta/ Contract: 1 year, $9.5m
Other Potential Options: Boston, CHI Cubs
2020 Stats: 11 SVs, 2.78 ERA, 14 Ks, 1.28 WHIP

Another veteran reliever heading into the market this offseason we have Mark Melancon. Breaking out as the Astros closer in 2011, Melancon has been running the 9th inning for a variety of teams for nearly a decade. Now eclipsing over 200 saves in his career, Melancon is heading into his age-36 season fresh off of another solid run in Atlanta. You know what you’re going to get with Melancon, nothing but consistency and even at an old age. I think at this point, helping guide Atlanta to an NLCS run in 2020 he’ll probably be looking to stay a Brave possibly all the way until he calls it quits. Him and Atlanta seem like a good fit, and Melancon is going to keep wanting to chase that World Series ring for as long as he can be effective in the back of the bullpen.

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Roberto Osuna
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 26/ Career: TOR ’15-’18, HOU ’18-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star, AL Saves leader
From: Houston/ To: Toronto/ Contract: 2 years, $20m
Other Potential Options: CHI Cubs, LA Angels
2020 Stats: 4 GP, 1 SV, 2.08 ERA, 0.69 WHIP

In a shocking move, the Astros decided to cut ties with their dominant closer heading into free agency, adding Roberto Osuna to a stacked list of reliever options on the market. After bursting into the league at only 20, Osuna shined first as the Blue Jays’ closer and eventually was traded to Houston at the 2018 deadline. A dark cloud definitely seemed to cast over Osuna during his tenure in Houston, first facing a 75-game suspension for Domestic Violence, and later the Astros cheating scandal that was uncovered a year ago. Osuna is young and dominant when healthy and can be a decent option for a few teams as their closer. The Astros seem to want to roll with Ryan Pressly, who stepped in for the injured Osuna during 2020 as the teams’ closer. Things seemed to go right for Osuna while he was in Toronto, and with Ken Giles set to hit the market and undergo Tommy John surgery, a reunion with the Jays could be just what both parties need. With all the injuries and a lot of controversy, Osuna might only land a 1 or 2 year deal and potentially be able to get something much more long-term if he can stay healthy and dominant with whoever he signs with next.

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Trevor Rosenthal
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 31/ Career: STL ’12-’17, WAS ’19, DET ’19, KC ’20, SD ’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star
From: San Diego/ To: San Diego/ Contract: 3 years, $24m
Other Potential Options: Philadelphia
2020 Stats: 11 SVs, 1.90 ERA, 38 Ks, 0.85 WHIP

One of the better stories of 2020, we saw the epic resurgence of Trevor Rosenthal back into baseball’s limelight. After being brought up by the Cardinals, Rosenthal became a dominant reliever from day one, putting up 45 and 48 save seasons in both 2014 and 2015. As one of the best closers in the league, Rosenthal was forced to undergo Tommy John surgery in 2017 and missed all of the 2018 season. He struggled mightily making his return in 2019, going up and down from the minors in Detroit and Washington, as well as putting up an embarrassing 22.74 ERA in 12 games with the Nats. The Royals picked him up on a Minor League deal and Rosenthal found his old form, stepping in as the closer in Kansas City in 2020. He was traded to the Padres at the deadline and recorded 4 saves in 9 appearances without giving up a run for San Diego. Now heading into his age-31 season and set to hit free agency, I think the Padres will elect to keep the younger Rosenthal over veteran Kirby Yates and give him a multi-year contract. Rosenthal finally seemed comfortable again in San Diego and has stated how he loves the organization. I think Trevor Rosenthal will be running the back of the bullpen for the Padres for the next few years.

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Jeremy Jeffress
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 33/ Career: MIL ’10/ ’14-’16/ ’17-’19, KC ’11-’12, TOR ’13-’14, TEX ’16-’17, CHC ’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star
From: CHI Cubs/ To: Cleveland/ Contract: 2 years, $9m
Other Potential Options: Kansas City, CHI Cubs, CHI White Sox, St. Louis, Seattle
2020 Stats: 8 SVs, 1.54 ERA, 17 Ks, 0.94 WHIP

Re-surging again in 2020, Jeffress remains one of the better middle relief arms in the market this offseason. With great skill but an incredibly streaky career, Jeffress tends to find himself on a new squad almost every year. Heading into his age-33 season, we’ll definitely see a decent amount of interest in the veteran right-hander to be a back of the bullpen depth arm. With teams like the Royals, White Sox, and Cardinals all in need of a consistent 7th or 8th inning man, he could be at the top of all their lists. I also wouldn’t rule out a pursuit by the Cubs, the team that took a chance on the veteran in 2020 and ended up using him as the primary closer. But with the Indians in full-on salary cutting mode, Jeffress may be a good option to add a cheap veteran to a young bullpen. I could see Jeffress latching on to the Indians and potentially battling youngster James Karinchak for the closer role in 2021.

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Blake Treinen
Relief Pitcher/ Age: 33/ Career: WAS ’14-’17, OAK ’17-’19, LAD ’20
Achievements: WS Champion, 1x All-Star
From: LA Dodgers/ To: LA Dodgers/ Contract: 2 years, $12m (1 year, $6m TO in 2022)
Other Potential Options: Philadelphia, Kansas City, CHI White Sox, NY Mets
2020 Stats: 3-3, 3.86 ERA, 22 Ks, 1.21 WHIP

One of the more effective and consistent options in middle relief on the market is Blake Treinen. Treinen broke out first with the Nats, taking over closing duties and later put up an insane 38 save, 0.78 ERA campaign in 2018 with Oakland. After getting non-tendered in 2019 from the A’s, Treinen latched on to the World Series winning Dodgers, serving as the team’s set-up man behind Kenley Jansen. Now back on the market, Treinen might get some last resort looks as a closer by some teams but I would believe most of his offers will come in 7th or 8th inning roles. The Dodgers should be high on Treinen and make a big push to bring him back to solidify their bullpen with Jansen entering the final year of his contract. I think a two-year deal to re-join the World Series’ winners would be the likely outcome in Treinen’s case.

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Shane Greene
Relief Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: NYY ’14, DET ’15-’19, ATL ’19-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star
From: Atlanta/ To: Boston/ Contract: 2 years, $14m
Other Potential Options: Atlanta, Houston, Philadelphia
2020 Stats: 1-0, 2.60 ERA, 21 Ks, 1.12 WHIP

Another Braves reliever hitting the market is right-hander Shane Greene. Throughout his up-and-down career, Greene has seen a lot of time as both a middle reliever and even a closer. He took over as the full-time closer in 2018 for the Tigers and started 2019 red hot with a 1.18 ERA and 22 saves in Detroit before being dealt to the Braves at the deadline. He served as a 7th and 8th inning man along with Chris Martin and Mark Melancon in the back of the Braves bullpen. Coming off of another solid season in middle relief, Greene should attract some solid interest mostly as a 7th or 8th inning man. I think Greene and the Red Sox could be a perfect fit, a team that’s in desperate need of any type of pitching and can use a good and cheaper veteran. Also as a benefit for Greene, the Red Sox could be one of the only teams where he’ll have a legitimate chance to be the full-time closer again.

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Trevor May
Relief Pitcher/ Age: 31/ Career: MIN ’14-’20
From: Minnesota/ To: Minnesota/ Contract: 3 years, $16.5m
Other Potential Options: CHI White Sox, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Boston, Houston, Seattle, Toronto
2020 Stats: 1-0, 3.86 ERA, 38 Ks, 1.16 WHIP

Rounding out the notable free agents on the market we have Twins’ middle reliever Trevor May. Hitting the market for the first time in his career, May has a had a stellar last three seasons, quietly turning into one of the game’s best relief options. I suspect May will draw a ton of interest this offseason from any team that can use reliable arms to lean back on in the bullpen. And only heading into his age-31 season, May has so much left in the tank to compete for a winning team. Teams like the Phillies, Braves, White Sox, Astros, and Blue Jays who could all be losing arms to the market, should take a look at May. Rebuilding squads like the Red Sox and Mariners might also be in contention if they decide to break the bank for May to be a cornerstone of their bullpen. But I don’t see the Twins letting him walk and with Minnesota right on the verge of deep contention, May is such an important piece to that bullpen.

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Other Notable Free Agents

Wilson Ramos
Catcher/ Age: 33/ Career: MIN ’10, WAS ’10-’16, TB ’17-’18, PHI ’18, NYM ’19-’20
Achievements: 2x All-Star, Silver Slugger
From: NY Mets/ To: Colorado/ Contract: 1 year, $4m
2020 Stats: .239 AVG, 5 HR, 15 RBI, .297 OBP

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James McCann
Catcher/ Age: 31/ Career: DET ’14-’18, CWS ’19-’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star
From: CHI White Sox/ To: Philadelphia/ Contract: 3 years, $32m (1 year, $12m TO in 2023)
2020 Stats: .289 AVG, 7 HR, 15 RBI, .360 OBP

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Carlos Santana
First Base/ Age: 35/ Career: CLE ’10-’17, ’19-’20, PHI ’18
Achievements: 1x All-Star, Silver Slugger
From: Cleveland/ To: Milwaukee/ Contract: 2 years, $14.5m (1 year, $8m TO in 2022)
2020 Stats: .199 AVG, 8 HR, 30 RBI, .349 OBP

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Daniel Murphy
First Base/Second Base/ Age: 36/ Career: NYM ’08-’15, WAS ’16-’18, CHC ’18, COL ’19-’20
Achievements: 3x All-Star, 2x Silver Slugger, NLCS MVP
From: Colorado/ To: Arizona/ Contract: 1 year, $4m
2020 Stats: .236 AVG, 3 HR, 16 RBI, .275 OBP

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Kolten Wong
Second Base/ Age: 30/ Career: STL ’13-’20
Achievements: 2x Gold Glove
From: St. Louis/ To: CHI Cubs/ Contract: 3 years, $34m (1 year, $12m TO in 2023)
2020 Stats: .265 AVG, 1 HR, 16 RBI, .350 OBP

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Dee Strange-Gordon
Second Base/Center Field/ Age: 33/ Career: LAD ’11-’14, MIA ’15-’17, SEA ’18-’20
Achievements: 2x All-Star, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, NL batting champion, 3x MLB steals leader
From: Seattle/ To: Detroit/ Contract: 1 year, $2m
2020 Stats: .200 AVG, 0 HR, 3 RBI, 3 SB

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César Hernández
Second Base/ Age: 31/ Career: PHI ’13-’19, CLE ’20
Achievements: Gold Glove
From: Cleveland/ To: Cleveland/ Contract: 2 years, $15m (1 year, $8m MO in 2022)
2020 Stats: .283 AVG, 3 HR, 20 RBI, .355 OBP

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Maikel Franco
Third Base/ Age: 28/ Career: PHI ’14-’19, KC ’20
From: Kansas City/ To: Kansas City/ Contract: 2 years, $9m
2020 Stats: .278 AVG, 8 HR, 38 RBI, .321 OBP

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Ryan Braun
Left Field/First Base/ Age: 37/ Career: MIL ’07-’20
Achievements: NL MVP, 6x All-Star, NL Rookie of the Year, 5x Silver Slugger, 2x 30-30 Club, NL Homerun leader
From: Milwaukee/ To: Milwaukee/ Contract: 1 year, $3m
2020 Stats: .233 AVG, 8 HR, 26 RBI, .281 OBP

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Adam Eaton
Right Field/ Age: 32/ Career: ARI ’12-’13, CWS ’14-’16, WAS ’17-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, 2x AL Triples leader
From: Washington/ To: San Francisco/ Contract: 2 years, $10m (1 year, $5m TO in 2022)
2020 Stats: .226 AVG, 4 HR, 17 RBI, .285 OBP

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Josh Reddick
Right Field/ Age: 34/ Career: BOS ’09-’11, OAK ’12-’16, LAD ’16, HOU ’17-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, Gold Glove
From: Houston/ To: Detroit/ Contract: 1 year, $4m
2020 Stats: .245 AVG, 4 HR, 23 RBI, .316 OBP

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Joc Pederson
Left Field/ Age: 29/ Career: LAD ’14-’20
Achievements: WS Champion, 1x All-Star
From: LA Dodgers/ To: Washington/ Contract: 2 years, $14m
2020 Stats: .190 AVG, 7 HR, 16 RBI, .285 OBP

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Jon Lester
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 37/ Career: BOS ’06-’14, OAK ’14, CHC ’15-’20
Achievements: 3x WS Champion, 5x All-Star, NLCS MVP, NL Wins leader, No-Hitter
From: CHI Cubs/ To: San Francisco/ Contract: 1 year, $5m
2020 Stats: 3-3, 5.16 ERA, 42 Ks, 1.33 WHIP

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Mike Minor
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 33/ Career: ATL ’10-’14, KC ’17, TEX ’18-’20, OAK ’20
Achievements: 1x All-Star
From: Oakland/ To: Boston/ Contract: 1 year, $5.5m
2020 Stats: 1-6, 5.56 ERA, 62 Ks, 1.24 WHIP

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Chris Archer
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: TB ’12-’18, PIT ’18-’19
Achievements: 2x All-Star
From: Pittsburgh/ To: San Francisco/ Contract: 1 year, $8.5m
2020 Stats: DNP – INJURED

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Kevin Gausman
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 30/ Career: BAL ’13-’18, ATL ’18-’19, CIN ’19, SF ’20
From: San Francisco/ To: San Francisco/ Contract: 1 year, $18.9m (Qualifying offer)
2020 Stats: 3-3, 3.62 ERA, 79 Ks, 1.11 WHIP

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Taijuan Walker
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 28/ Career: SEA ’13-’16/ ’20, ARI ’17-’19, TOR ’20
From: Toronto/ To: Detroit/ Contract: 3 years, $27m
2020 Stats: 4-3, 2.70 ERA, 50 Ks, 1.16 WHIP

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Mike Fiers
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 36/ Career: MIL ’11-’15, HOU ’15-’17, DET ’18, OAK ’18-’20
Achievements: 2 No-Hitters
From: Oakland/ To: NY Mets/ Contract: 1 year, $6m
2020 Stats: 6-3, 4.58 ERA, 37 Ks, 1.37 WHIP

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Rich Hill
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 41/ Career: CHC ’05-’08, BAL ’09, BOS ’10-’12/ ’15, CLE ’13, LAA ’14, NYY ’14, OAK ’16, LAD ’16-’19, MIN ’20
From: Minnesota/ To: Houston/ Contract: 1 year, $3m
2020 Stats: 2-2, 3.03 ERA, 31 Ks, 1.16 WHIP

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Brad Peacock
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 33/ Career: WAS ’11, HOU ’13-’20
Achievements: WS Champion
From: Houston/ To: LA Angels/ Contract: 1 year, $4.5m
2020 Stats: 2.1 IP, 7.71 ERA, 3 Ks, 1.71 WHIP

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Cole Hamels
Starting Pitcher/ Age: 37/ Career: PHI ’06-’15, TEX ’15-’18, CHC ’18-’19, ATL ’20
Achievements: WS Champion, WS MVP, 4x All-Star, NLCS MVP, No-Hitter
From: Atlanta/ To: Atlanta/ Contract: 1 year, $3m
2020 Stats: 3.1 IP, 8.10 ERA, 2 Ks, 1.20 WHIP

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Brandon Workman
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 32/ Career: BOS ’13-’20, PHI ’20
Achievements: WS Champion
From: Philadelphia/ To: Arizona/ Contract: 2 years, $7m
2020 Stats: 9 SVs, 5.95 ERA, 23 Ks, 2.24 WHIP

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Greg Holland
Closing Pitcher/ Age: 35/ Career: KC ’10-’15/ ’20, COL ’17, STL ’18, WAS ’18, ARI ’19
Achievements: WS Champion, 3x All-Star, AL Reliever of the Year, NL Saves leader, NL Comeback Player of the Year
From: Kansas City/ To: CHI Cubs/ Contract: 2 years, $8m (1 year, $4m TO in 2022)
2020 Stats: 6 SVs, 1.91 ERA, 31 Ks, 0.95 WHIP