It's the final countdown to spring training, and the MLB free agent market is still buzzing with activity! But with pitchers and catchers reporting in just a few days, one question looms: can you build a competitive team from the remaining unsigned players?
The answer might surprise you.
Let's dive into the hypothetical All-Free Agent team, a squad that could give some signed clubs a run for their money. We'll start with the lineup:
Starting Lineup:
- Luis Rengifo, a versatile player, takes the 2B spot.
- Randal Grichuk, a solid RF.
- Rhys Hoskins, a promising 1B who could be a daily fixture.
- Marcell Ozuna, a DH with potential.
- Jesse Winker, a capable LF.
- Jonah Heim, the top catcher on the market, despite recent performance concerns.
- Kiké Hernández, a CF by necessity, given the lack of options.
- Ramón Urías, a Gold Glove winner at 3B.
- Jose Iglesias, rounding out the infield at SS.
First Base: A Position of Plenty
The free agent market is stacked at first base. Hoskins and Ozuna are the last position players standing from the esteemed Big Board, and they're joined by the likes of Nathaniel Lowe, Paul Goldschmidt, Justin Turner, Ty France, and Wilmer Flores. These players offer a mix of platoon potential and individual talent to balance any lineup.
Outfield: Running on Empty
The outfield situation is less rosy. Marcell Ozuna is the only 1 WAR outfielder left, and even he's not a true outfielder. The center field market is barren, and the remaining corner outfielders are primarily bench players. However, there are some intriguing options like Austin Slater, Tommy Pham, and Mike Tauchman who could provide value.
Trade Implications: First Base Overload?
The abundance of free agent first basemen might impact trade talks for players like Ryan Mountcastle and Yandy Díaz. Meanwhile, the scarcity of middle infielders could boost the trade value of players like Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw.
Bench Players: Catching Conundrum
The bench features Elias Díaz, a catcher who outperformed Heim last season, and Brendan Rodgers, a versatile infielder. Nathaniel Lowe, another first baseman, and Mike Tauchman, an outfielder, round out the bench.
Starting Rotation: Still Some Heat Left
The starting rotation boasts some impressive names. Max Scherzer, Zac Gallen, Lucas Giolito, Chris Bassitt, and Zack Littell form a solid group. Gallen, ranked 21st on the Big Board, is the top remaining starter, with other unsigned pitchers like Justin Verlander, Nick Martinez, and Griffin Canning also available.
Bullpen: Pickings are Slim
The relief market has been picked clean, with Michael Kopech as the last Big Board reliever standing. The remaining options are a mixed bag, leaving teams to take a chance on players like Nick Martinez, Paul Sewald, and Evan Phillips.
And there you have it—a team that, on paper, could compete. But here's where it gets controversial: could this team actually challenge for a playoff spot? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's spark some pre-spring training debate!
