MLB

Tony Paul's top 50 MLB free agents (Updated, April 24)

Go through the gallery to view Tony Paul's top 50 MLB free agents. (All ages as of April 2018.)
Go through the gallery to view Tony Paul's top 50 MLB free agents. (All ages as of April 2018.)
Photo Illustration By Larry O'Connor, Detroit News
1. J.D. Martinez, RF, 30: The ex-Tigers slugger owes another ex-Tigers slugger, Justin Upton, a fruit basket or something, given that Upton opted not to opt-out with the Angels, and instead re-upped for an extra year — making Martinez the biggest bat on the market, and setting the standard for his payday. Hiring Scott Boras as his new agent doesn't hurt, either. PREDICTION: Red Sox, 5Y/$122M. UPDATE: Red Sox, 5Y/$110M.
1. J.D. Martinez, RF, 30: The ex-Tigers slugger owes another ex-Tigers slugger, Justin Upton, a fruit basket or something, given that Upton opted not to opt-out with the Angels, and instead re-upped for an extra year — making Martinez the biggest bat on the market, and setting the standard for his payday. Hiring Scott Boras as his new agent doesn't hurt, either. PREDICTION: Red Sox, 5Y/$122M. UPDATE: Red Sox, 5Y/$110M.
Mark J. Terrill, AP
2. Shohei Otani, SP/OF, 23: Perhaps the most intriguing name on the free-agent market, because he's like baseball's version of a unicorn — a true two-way player. In Japan the last five years, he has an OPS of .859 and a WHIP of 1.076. He's limited to a minor-league contract, because of the new CBA, plus a singing bonus within a club's allotted pool. The posting fee should be $20M. PREDICTION: Yankees. UPDATE: Angels.
2. Shohei Otani, SP/OF, 23: Perhaps the most intriguing name on the free-agent market, because he's like baseball's version of a unicorn — a true two-way player. In Japan the last five years, he has an OPS of .859 and a WHIP of 1.076. He's limited to a minor-league contract, because of the new CBA, plus a singing bonus within a club's allotted pool. The posting fee should be $20M. PREDICTION: Yankees. UPDATE: Angels.
Masterpress, Getty Images
3. Yu Darvish, SP, 31: His World Series duds may cost him some appeal with the team that acquired him at the deadline, the Dodgers, but he'll have suitors, especially given the weak starting-pitching pool — especially with Masahiro Tanaka not opting out — not to mention, the right-hander is coming off his first completely healthy season since 2013. Make no mistake, he's an ace. PREDICTION: Cubs, 5Y/$110M; UPDATE: Cubs, 6Y/$126M.
3. Yu Darvish, SP, 31: His World Series duds may cost him some appeal with the team that acquired him at the deadline, the Dodgers, but he'll have suitors, especially given the weak starting-pitching pool — especially with Masahiro Tanaka not opting out — not to mention, the right-hander is coming off his first completely healthy season since 2013. Make no mistake, he's an ace. PREDICTION: Cubs, 5Y/$110M; UPDATE: Cubs, 6Y/$126M.
Matt Slocum, Associated Press
4. Eric Hosmer, 1B, 28: It's quite sad, really. The Royals spent all those years tearing things down so they could build back up, and it paid off handsomely with two trips to the World Series, including one championship. But now the bill's coming due, with Hosmer leading the stable of stars who've probably priced themselves out of the Kansas City market. PREDICTION: Mariners, 5Y/$95M. UPDATE: Padres, 8Y/$144M.
4. Eric Hosmer, 1B, 28: It's quite sad, really. The Royals spent all those years tearing things down so they could build back up, and it paid off handsomely with two trips to the World Series, including one championship. But now the bill's coming due, with Hosmer leading the stable of stars who've probably priced themselves out of the Kansas City market. PREDICTION: Mariners, 5Y/$95M. UPDATE: Padres, 8Y/$144M.
Charlie Riedel, Associated Press
5. Mike Moustakas, 3B, 29: Another of those Royals lifers likely on their way out of town, Moose became a legitimate star three years ago and carried it over this year — the biggest production season of his seven-year career. That comes at a perfect time, as the free-agent pool for hitters, and especially third basemen, probably is as weak as it’s ever going to get. PREDICTION: Angels, 5Y/$82M. UPDATE: Royals, 1Y/$6.5M.
5. Mike Moustakas, 3B, 29: Another of those Royals lifers likely on their way out of town, Moose became a legitimate star three years ago and carried it over this year — the biggest production season of his seven-year career. That comes at a perfect time, as the free-agent pool for hitters, and especially third basemen, probably is as weak as it’s ever going to get. PREDICTION: Angels, 5Y/$82M. UPDATE: Royals, 1Y/$6.5M.
Paul Sancya, Associated Press
6. Jake Arrieta, SP, 32: Ever since he arrived in Chicago in the middle of the 2013 season, there have been few starters as valuable as the big, burly right-hander, who won a Cy Young in 2015 and was the ace of the staff during the 2016 World Series run. The looming question is whether that 2015 workload is catching up with him. The innings declined significantly since. PREDICTION: Rangers, 5Y/$90M. UPDATE: Phillies, 3Y/$75M.
6. Jake Arrieta, SP, 32: Ever since he arrived in Chicago in the middle of the 2013 season, there have been few starters as valuable as the big, burly right-hander, who won a Cy Young in 2015 and was the ace of the staff during the 2016 World Series run. The looming question is whether that 2015 workload is catching up with him. The innings declined significantly since. PREDICTION: Rangers, 5Y/$90M. UPDATE: Phillies, 3Y/$75M.
Nam Y. Huh, Associated Press
7. Zack Cozart, SS, 32: You don't hear a ton about him on a national scale, because he’s played for some pretty awful Cincinnati ballclubs. But he's coming off a monster season, in which he had an OPS of .933 and made his first All-Star team. There's always a question if the offense is juiced by that small ballpark, but defense travels, and he's surely no slouch there. PREDICTION: Reds, 4Y/$53M. UPDATE: Angels, 3Y/$38M.
7. Zack Cozart, SS, 32: You don't hear a ton about him on a national scale, because he’s played for some pretty awful Cincinnati ballclubs. But he's coming off a monster season, in which he had an OPS of .933 and made his first All-Star team. There's always a question if the offense is juiced by that small ballpark, but defense travels, and he's surely no slouch there. PREDICTION: Reds, 4Y/$53M. UPDATE: Angels, 3Y/$38M.
John Minchillo, Associated Press
8. Lorenzo Cain, CF, 32: Yet another of those Royals stars who's priced himself out of that market — with a 5.3 WAR in 2017, he could actually make the case he's a $30-million-a-year ballplayer. No way he does that well on the open market, but some team is going to get a burner with surprising pop who plays some of the best defense in the majors, at a prime position.
PREDICTION: Brewers, 4Y/$68. UPDATE: Brewers, 5Y/$80M.
8. Lorenzo Cain, CF, 32: Yet another of those Royals stars who's priced himself out of that market — with a 5.3 WAR in 2017, he could actually make the case he's a $30-million-a-year ballplayer. No way he does that well on the open market, but some team is going to get a burner with surprising pop who plays some of the best defense in the majors, at a prime position. PREDICTION: Brewers, 4Y/$68. UPDATE: Brewers, 5Y/$80M.
Phil Long, Associated Press
9. Wade Davis, RP, 32: In the last four seasons, since this right-hander made the full-time transition from starter to reliever, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more dynamic guy out of the bullpen. Oddly, he allowed six homers in 2017, after allowing just three, total, the previous three years, but his strikeout-per-nine-inning mark (12.1) was second-best of his career. PREDICTION: Cubs, 4Y/$58M. UPDATE: Rockies, 3Y/$52M.
9. Wade Davis, RP, 32: In the last four seasons, since this right-hander made the full-time transition from starter to reliever, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more dynamic guy out of the bullpen. Oddly, he allowed six homers in 2017, after allowing just three, total, the previous three years, but his strikeout-per-nine-inning mark (12.1) was second-best of his career. PREDICTION: Cubs, 4Y/$58M. UPDATE: Rockies, 3Y/$52M.
Charles Rex Arbogast, Associated Press
10. Greg Holland, RP, 32: The veteran right-handed closer had a $15 million player option, which he declined after re-establishing his stock on a one-year deal for 2017. Coming off Tommy John surgery, he proved to be one of the shrewdest signings of last offseason, shining in Colorado of all places. He's certainly due for a lucrative, multi-year contract now. PREDICTION: Rockies, 3Y/$48M. UPDATE: Cardinals, 1Y/$14M.
10. Greg Holland, RP, 32: The veteran right-handed closer had a $15 million player option, which he declined after re-establishing his stock on a one-year deal for 2017. Coming off Tommy John surgery, he proved to be one of the shrewdest signings of last offseason, shining in Colorado of all places. He's certainly due for a lucrative, multi-year contract now. PREDICTION: Rockies, 3Y/$48M. UPDATE: Cardinals, 1Y/$14M.
David Zalubowski, Associated Press
11. Jay Bruce, RF, 31: He looked for a bit like he might fall into the Jason Bay trap, a stud in Pittsburgh, and a bust with the New York Mets, never to re-emerge again. But after a sluggish start in Queens, Bruce got it together in 2017, then continued the good times after a summer trade to the Indians. PREDICTION: Blue Jays, 4Y/$70M. UPDATE: Mets, 3Y/$39M.
11. Jay Bruce, RF, 31: He looked for a bit like he might fall into the Jason Bay trap, a stud in Pittsburgh, and a bust with the New York Mets, never to re-emerge again. But after a sluggish start in Queens, Bruce got it together in 2017, then continued the good times after a summer trade to the Indians. PREDICTION: Blue Jays, 4Y/$70M. UPDATE: Mets, 3Y/$39M.
Frank Franklin II, Associated Press
12. Lance Lynn, SP, 30: After missing all of 2016 recovering from Tommy John surgery, the right-hander bounced back in a big way, making every one of his starts and posting the best hits-per-nine-innings mark (7.3) of his six-year career. That said, walks were up, strikeouts were down, a bit of a red flag. PREDICTION: Mets, 5Y/$81M. UPDATE: Twins, 1Y/$12M.
12. Lance Lynn, SP, 30: After missing all of 2016 recovering from Tommy John surgery, the right-hander bounced back in a big way, making every one of his starts and posting the best hits-per-nine-innings mark (7.3) of his six-year career. That said, walks were up, strikeouts were down, a bit of a red flag. PREDICTION: Mets, 5Y/$81M. UPDATE: Twins, 1Y/$12M.
Jeff Roberson, Associated Press
13. Addison Reed, RP, 29: In his seven-year career, he's been a bit of a vagabond, the Red Sox in 2017 being his fourth major-league team. So sometimes it's easy to forget how effective the right-hander has been, whether in the closer's role or a setup situation. He's top-shelf, no doubt. PREDICTION: Nationals, 3Y/$42M. UPDATE: Twins, 2Y/$16.75M.
13. Addison Reed, RP, 29: In his seven-year career, he's been a bit of a vagabond, the Red Sox in 2017 being his fourth major-league team. So sometimes it's easy to forget how effective the right-hander has been, whether in the closer's role or a setup situation. He's top-shelf, no doubt. PREDICTION: Nationals, 3Y/$42M. UPDATE: Twins, 2Y/$16.75M.
John Minchillo, Associated Press
14. Carlos Santana, 1B, 32: This will be a big test for the Indians, to see if ownership shells out big bucks to keep some of its prime talent, when it's been reluctant to spend lavishly in recent winters. The switch-hitting first baseman/DH is one of the cogs behind the franchise's renaissance. PREDICTION: Indians, 5Y, $80M. UPDATE: Phillies, 3Y/$60M.
14. Carlos Santana, 1B, 32: This will be a big test for the Indians, to see if ownership shells out big bucks to keep some of its prime talent, when it's been reluctant to spend lavishly in recent winters. The switch-hitting first baseman/DH is one of the cogs behind the franchise's renaissance. PREDICTION: Indians, 5Y, $80M. UPDATE: Phillies, 3Y/$60M.
Kathy Willens, Associated Press
15. Jonathan Lucroy, C, 31: He had a bit of a falloff early this season with the Rangers, but found his groove again after a summer trade to the Rockies — a perk-up that came at the right time, given the limited supply of quality catchers on the market. Still, his WAR was down 6.1 since 2014. PREDICTION: Rockies, 3Y/$46M. UPDATE: A's, 1Y/$6.5M.
15. Jonathan Lucroy, C, 31: He had a bit of a falloff early this season with the Rangers, but found his groove again after a summer trade to the Rockies — a perk-up that came at the right time, given the limited supply of quality catchers on the market. Still, his WAR was down 6.1 since 2014. PREDICTION: Rockies, 3Y/$46M. UPDATE: A's, 1Y/$6.5M.
David Zalubowski, Associated Press
16. Alex Cobb, SP, 30: Another seeming Tommy John success story, he missed all of 2015 and almost all of 2016, before bouncing back in a big way in 2017. The strikeouts still are working their way back up, but there aren't many Nos. 2 or 3 starters available on the open market, if there are any. PREDICTION: Twins, 4Y/$56M. UPDATE: Orioles, 4Y/$55M.
16. Alex Cobb, SP, 30: Another seeming Tommy John success story, he missed all of 2015 and almost all of 2016, before bouncing back in a big way in 2017. The strikeouts still are working their way back up, but there aren't many Nos. 2 or 3 starters available on the open market, if there are any. PREDICTION: Twins, 4Y/$56M. UPDATE: Orioles, 4Y/$55M.
Chris O'Meara, Associated Press
17. Welington Castillo, C, 31: The Orioles last winter made the tough choice to part ways with longtime fan favorite Matt Wieters and go in a different direction, and boy did it work out — probably too well, as Castillo, with his .813 OPS declined his $7 million option to take a swing at a big payday. PREDICTION: Orioles, 3Y/$33M. UPDATE: White Sox, 2Y/$15M.
17. Welington Castillo, C, 31: The Orioles last winter made the tough choice to part ways with longtime fan favorite Matt Wieters and go in a different direction, and boy did it work out — probably too well, as Castillo, with his .813 OPS declined his $7 million option to take a swing at a big payday. PREDICTION: Orioles, 3Y/$33M. UPDATE: White Sox, 2Y/$15M.
Julie Jacobson, Associated Press
18. Neil Walker, 2B, 32: The guy known 'round these parts as Don Kelly's brother-in-law, he's been one of the steadiest second basemen in baseball since the start of the decade. He took the qualifying offer last winter, but probably has his sights set on a multi-year contract this time around. PREDICTION: Rangers, 4Y/$53M. UPDATE: Yankees, 1Y/$5M.
18. Neil Walker, 2B, 32: The guy known 'round these parts as Don Kelly's brother-in-law, he's been one of the steadiest second basemen in baseball since the start of the decade. He took the qualifying offer last winter, but probably has his sights set on a multi-year contract this time around. PREDICTION: Rangers, 4Y/$53M. UPDATE: Yankees, 1Y/$5M.
Morry Gash, AP
19. Logan Morrison, 1B, 30: Folks have been waiting a long time for this guy to emerge as a big-time player, and it finally happened with the Rays in 2017, as he set career highs in homers (38), RBIs (85) and OPS (.868). Given it took eight years, you've gotta beware of the one-hit wonder possibility. PREDICTION: Red Sox, 3Y/$37M. UPDATE: Twins, 1Y/$6.5M (with vesting option for second year).
19. Logan Morrison, 1B, 30: Folks have been waiting a long time for this guy to emerge as a big-time player, and it finally happened with the Rays in 2017, as he set career highs in homers (38), RBIs (85) and OPS (.868). Given it took eight years, you've gotta beware of the one-hit wonder possibility. PREDICTION: Red Sox, 3Y/$37M. UPDATE: Twins, 1Y/$6.5M (with vesting option for second year).
Paul Beaty, Associated Press
20. Todd Frazier, 3B, 32: Whoever loses out on Mike Moustakas will view the “Todd Father” as the consolation prize, one who can slug with the best of them, and one who is an emotional leader, too. Just ask the Yankees, who would seem to be plenty open to discussions on retaining his services. PREDICTION: Yankees, 3Y/$39M. UPDATE: Mets, 2Y/$17M.
20. Todd Frazier, 3B, 32: Whoever loses out on Mike Moustakas will view the “Todd Father” as the consolation prize, one who can slug with the best of them, and one who is an emotional leader, too. Just ask the Yankees, who would seem to be plenty open to discussions on retaining his services. PREDICTION: Yankees, 3Y/$39M. UPDATE: Mets, 2Y/$17M.
David Dermer, Associated Press
21. Carlos Gonzalez, RF, 32: It seems like he’s been playing on a 20-year deal but it was only seven — and it's finished, making it probably that after all these years of trade rumors, he's finally leaving the Rockies. PREDICTION: Diamondbacks, 3Y/$48M. UPDATE: Rockies, 1Y/$8M.
21. Carlos Gonzalez, RF, 32: It seems like he’s been playing on a 20-year deal but it was only seven — and it's finished, making it probably that after all these years of trade rumors, he's finally leaving the Rockies. PREDICTION: Diamondbacks, 3Y/$48M. UPDATE: Rockies, 1Y/$8M.
David Zalubowski, Associated Press
22. Joe Smith, RP, 34: The relief market always is tricky, given the up-and-down nature of bullpen folks, from one year to the next. But this veteran right-hander is an exception, as steady as they come. PREDICTION: Nationals, 3Y/$23M. UPDATE: Astros, 2Y/$15M.
22. Joe Smith, RP, 34: The relief market always is tricky, given the up-and-down nature of bullpen folks, from one year to the next. But this veteran right-hander is an exception, as steady as they come. PREDICTION: Nationals, 3Y/$23M. UPDATE: Astros, 2Y/$15M.
Tony Dejak, Associated Press
23. Brandon Morrow, RP, 33: After five years of injuries, the right-hander finally had a healthy full season — and emerged as a serious force out of the Dodgers bullpen, even pitching in all seven World Series games. PREDICTION: Dodgers, 3Y/$21M. UPDATE: Cubs, 2Y/$21M.
23. Brandon Morrow, RP, 33: After five years of injuries, the right-hander finally had a healthy full season — and emerged as a serious force out of the Dodgers bullpen, even pitching in all seven World Series games. PREDICTION: Dodgers, 3Y/$21M. UPDATE: Cubs, 2Y/$21M.
Rick Scuteri, Associated Press
24. Michael Pineda, SP, 29: This is a tricky one, given he had Tommy John surgery this summer. Bad timing, since recovery is a year or more. But the right-hander showed flashes, and could be worth an incentive-laden gamble. PREDICTION: Royals, 2Y/$20M. UPDATE: Twins, 2Y/$10M, plus possible incentives.
24. Michael Pineda, SP, 29: This is a tricky one, given he had Tommy John surgery this summer. Bad timing, since recovery is a year or more. But the right-hander showed flashes, and could be worth an incentive-laden gamble. PREDICTION: Royals, 2Y/$20M. UPDATE: Twins, 2Y/$10M, plus possible incentives.
Kathy Willens, Associated Press
25. Yonder Alonso, 1B, 31: After years of relative anonymity, he broke out in a big way with the A's and Mariners, easily setting career highs in homers (28), RBIs (67) and OPS (.866). He slowed a bit down the stretch, however. PREDICTION: Angels, 4Y/$47M. UPDATE: Indians, 2Y/$16M.
25. Yonder Alonso, 1B, 31: After years of relative anonymity, he broke out in a big way with the A's and Mariners, easily setting career highs in homers (28), RBIs (67) and OPS (.866). He slowed a bit down the stretch, however. PREDICTION: Angels, 4Y/$47M. UPDATE: Indians, 2Y/$16M.
Frank Franklin II, Associated Press
26. Chris Iannetta, C, 35: He's been around forever. OK, really just 12 years. And it was Year No. 12 in which he posted one of his top offensive years. The Arizona desert sure agreed with him, to the tune of an .865 OPS. PREDICTION: Pirates, 3Y/$23M. UPDATE: Rockies, 2Y/$8.5M, with $5.25M option for 2020.
26. Chris Iannetta, C, 35: He's been around forever. OK, really just 12 years. And it was Year No. 12 in which he posted one of his top offensive years. The Arizona desert sure agreed with him, to the tune of an .865 OPS. PREDICTION: Pirates, 3Y/$23M. UPDATE: Rockies, 2Y/$8.5M, with $5.25M option for 2020.
Matt York, Associated Press
27. Eduardo Nunez, IF, 30: He can play all over the diamond (five positions in 2017, including third, second and short), and can hit while doing it. His .801 OPS was a career high, in a split season with the Giants and Red Sox. PREDICTION: Royals, 2Y/$21M. UPDATE: Red Sox, 1Y/$6M.
27. Eduardo Nunez, IF, 30: He can play all over the diamond (five positions in 2017, including third, second and short), and can hit while doing it. His .801 OPS was a career high, in a split season with the Giants and Red Sox. PREDICTION: Royals, 2Y/$21M. UPDATE: Red Sox, 1Y/$6M.
Winslow Townson, Associated Press
28. Mike Minor, RP, 30: The Royals signed him in 2016, when he wasn't likely to pitch until 2017. The lefty became a reliever, and a darn good one (1.017 WHIP), convincing him to decline his half of a $10 million mutual option. PREDICTION: Giants, 3Y/$33M. UPDATE: Rangers, 3Y/$28M.
28. Mike Minor, RP, 30: The Royals signed him in 2016, when he wasn't likely to pitch until 2017. The lefty became a reliever, and a darn good one (1.017 WHIP), convincing him to decline his half of a $10 million mutual option. PREDICTION: Giants, 3Y/$33M. UPDATE: Rangers, 3Y/$28M.
Jim Mone, Associated Press
29. CC Sabathia, SP, 37: If you were starting your draft of this list last spring, the veteran left-hander wouldn't have been anywhere on it. But he seemed to find the fountain of youth, particularly during the postseason push. PREDICTION: Braves, 2Y/$26M. UPDATE: Yankees, 1Y/$10M.
29. CC Sabathia, SP, 37: If you were starting your draft of this list last spring, the veteran left-hander wouldn't have been anywhere on it. But he seemed to find the fountain of youth, particularly during the postseason push. PREDICTION: Braves, 2Y/$26M. UPDATE: Yankees, 1Y/$10M.
Eric Christian Smith, Associated Press
30. Yusmeiro Petit, RP, 33: He's been a bit under the radar for several years, given the right-hander's spent most of his career out west. Fine time to have his best season, with a WHIP under 1.000 and 10 Ks per nine innings. PREDICTION: White Sox, 3Y/$18M. UPDATE: Athletics, 2Y/$10M.
30. Yusmeiro Petit, RP, 33: He's been a bit under the radar for several years, given the right-hander's spent most of his career out west. Fine time to have his best season, with a WHIP under 1.000 and 10 Ks per nine innings. PREDICTION: White Sox, 3Y/$18M. UPDATE: Athletics, 2Y/$10M.
Kathy Willens, Associated Press
36. Steve Cishek, RP, 31: If there's a deep area in this market, it's relief pitching. Still, this right-hander has been super-steady for eight years. PREDICTION: Astros, 2Y/$17M. UPDATE: Cubs, 2Y/$13M.
36. Steve Cishek, RP, 31: If there's a deep area in this market, it's relief pitching. Still, this right-hander has been super-steady for eight years. PREDICTION: Astros, 2Y/$17M. UPDATE: Cubs, 2Y/$13M.
Steve Nesius, Associated Press
31. Carlos Gomez, CF, 32: After signing a one-year deal last offseason with the Rangers, he re-set his value with an .802 OPS, if not great defense. PREDICTION: Rangers, 2Y/$24M. UPDATE: Rays, 1Y/$4M.
31. Carlos Gomez, CF, 32: After signing a one-year deal last offseason with the Rangers, he re-set his value with an .802 OPS, if not great defense. PREDICTION: Rangers, 2Y/$24M. UPDATE: Rays, 1Y/$4M.
Bruce Kluckhohn, Associated Press
32. Matt Albers, RP, 35: The vet right-hander was great for the Nationals (career-best 0.852 WHIP), but he's always been on the unpredictable side. PREDICTION: Rays, 2Y/$12M. UPDATE: Brewers, 2Y/$5M.
32. Matt Albers, RP, 35: The vet right-hander was great for the Nationals (career-best 0.852 WHIP), but he's always been on the unpredictable side. PREDICTION: Rays, 2Y/$12M. UPDATE: Brewers, 2Y/$5M.
Pablo Martinez Monsivais, Associated Press
33. Mark Reynolds, 1B, 34: The .839 OPS was his best since 2009; same with his RBIs (97). You wonder how much the Coors Field effect hurts his value. PREDICTION: Orioles, 2Y/$16M
33. Mark Reynolds, 1B, 34: The .839 OPS was his best since 2009; same with his RBIs (97). You wonder how much the Coors Field effect hurts his value. PREDICTION: Orioles, 2Y/$16M
Michael Owen Baker, Associated Press
34. Jarrod Dyson, CF, 33: For a light hitter with a .674 OPS, his WAR (2.6) this past year with the Mariners shows you just how good his defense is. PREDICTION: Mariners, 3Y/$25M. UPDATE: Diamondbacks, 2Y/$7.5M.
34. Jarrod Dyson, CF, 33: For a light hitter with a .674 OPS, his WAR (2.6) this past year with the Mariners shows you just how good his defense is. PREDICTION: Mariners, 3Y/$25M. UPDATE: Diamondbacks, 2Y/$7.5M.
Elaine Thompson, Associated Press
35. Hisashi Iwakuma, SP, 37: A shoulder injury forced the Mariners to decline the right-hander's $10 million option. He’ll still have suitors. PREDICTION: Mariners, 2Y/$21M. UPDATE: Mariners, minor-league contract.
35. Hisashi Iwakuma, SP, 37: A shoulder injury forced the Mariners to decline the right-hander's $10 million option. He’ll still have suitors. PREDICTION: Mariners, 2Y/$21M. UPDATE: Mariners, minor-league contract.
Elaine Thompson, Associated Press
37. Tony Watson, RP, 32: As strong as the relief market is, it's not that deep on the left-handed side of things, good news for this fella. PREDICTION: Astros, 2Y/$16M. UPDATE: Giants, 2Y/$9M (with significant performance bonuses).
37. Tony Watson, RP, 32: As strong as the relief market is, it's not that deep on the left-handed side of things, good news for this fella. PREDICTION: Astros, 2Y/$16M. UPDATE: Giants, 2Y/$9M (with significant performance bonuses).
Matt Slocum, Associated Press
38. Koji Uehara, RP, 43: Even approaching his mid-40s, this right-hander remains a dynamite guy in the bullpen, at 10.5 strikeouts per nine innings. PREDICTION: Cardinals, 2Y/$15M. UPDATE: Yomiuri Giants, terms TBA.
38. Koji Uehara, RP, 43: Even approaching his mid-40s, this right-hander remains a dynamite guy in the bullpen, at 10.5 strikeouts per nine innings. PREDICTION: Cardinals, 2Y/$15M. UPDATE: Yomiuri Giants, terms TBA.
John Minchillo, Associated Press
39. Pat Neshek, RP, 37: The veteran right-hander posts a sub-1.000 WHIP just about anywhere he goes, even at Coors Field, which makes him quite marketable. PREDICTION: Blue Jays, 2Y/$15M. UPDATE: Phillies, 2Y/$16M.
39. Pat Neshek, RP, 37: The veteran right-hander posts a sub-1.000 WHIP just about anywhere he goes, even at Coors Field, which makes him quite marketable. PREDICTION: Blue Jays, 2Y/$15M. UPDATE: Phillies, 2Y/$16M.
David Zalubowski, Associated Press
40. Melky Cabrera, LF, 33: The veteran switch-hitter had a down year by his standards, but remains an affordable, appealing bat for a team on a budget. PREDICTION: Orioles, 2Y/$26M. UPDATE: Indians, 1Y/minor-league contract.
40. Melky Cabrera, LF, 33: The veteran switch-hitter had a down year by his standards, but remains an affordable, appealing bat for a team on a budget. PREDICTION: Orioles, 2Y/$26M. UPDATE: Indians, 1Y/minor-league contract.
Matt Marton, Associated Press
41. Mitch Moreland, 1B, 32: He strikes out too much and doesn't get on base enough, but the power makes up for it, as does Gold Glove-caliber defense. PREDICTION: A's, 2Y/$17M. UPDATE: Red Sox, 2Y/$13M.
41. Mitch Moreland, 1B, 32: He strikes out too much and doesn't get on base enough, but the power makes up for it, as does Gold Glove-caliber defense. PREDICTION: A's, 2Y/$17M. UPDATE: Red Sox, 2Y/$13M.
Michael Dwyer, Associated Press
42. Jason Vargas, SP, 35: The four-year, $32 million deal from the Royals looked like an overpay by the Royals for the lefty. Seems about right, now. PREDICTION: White Sox, 3Y/$28M. UPDATE: Mets, 2Y/$16M.
42. Jason Vargas, SP, 35: The four-year, $32 million deal from the Royals looked like an overpay by the Royals for the lefty. Seems about right, now. PREDICTION: White Sox, 3Y/$28M. UPDATE: Mets, 2Y/$16M.
Charlie Riedel, Associated Press
43. Ah-seop Son, LF, 30: An 11-year star in Korea, his .934 OPS in 2017 was second-best of his career. A good time to make the leap to the States. PREDICTION: Giants, 3Y/$20M. UPDATE: Re-signed to stay in Korea.
43. Ah-seop Son, LF, 30: An 11-year star in Korea, his .934 OPS in 2017 was second-best of his career. A good time to make the leap to the States. PREDICTION: Giants, 3Y/$20M. UPDATE: Re-signed to stay in Korea.
Ahn Young-joon, Associated Press
44. Jose Bautista, RF, 37: Almost didn't make the list, which would've been unfathomable a few years back. But a .674 OPS? That'll open some eyes. PREDICTION: Braves, 1Y/$15M. UPDATE: Braves, 1Y/$1M.
44. Jose Bautista, RF, 37: Almost didn't make the list, which would've been unfathomable a few years back. But a .674 OPS? That'll open some eyes. PREDICTION: Braves, 1Y/$15M. UPDATE: Braves, 1Y/$1M.
Tom Szczerbowski, Getty Images
45. Yoshihisa Hirano, RP, 34: An elite closer in Japan, the right-hander figures to be a strikeout machine here, given hitters' free-swinging ways. PREDICTION: Red Sox, 3Y/$24M. UPDATE: Diamondbacks, 2Y/$6M.
45. Yoshihisa Hirano, RP, 34: An elite closer in Japan, the right-hander figures to be a strikeout machine here, given hitters' free-swinging ways. PREDICTION: Red Sox, 3Y/$24M. UPDATE: Diamondbacks, 2Y/$6M.
Matt Roberts, Getty Images
46. Jake McGee, RP, 31: Solid for years with the Rays, the lefty was awful his first season in Colorado, but fantastic this season. Good timing. PREDICTION: Rays, 2Y/$17M. UPDATE: Rockies, 3Y/$27M.
46. Jake McGee, RP, 31: Solid for years with the Rays, the lefty was awful his first season in Colorado, but fantastic this season. Good timing. PREDICTION: Rays, 2Y/$17M. UPDATE: Rockies, 3Y/$27M.
David Zalubowski, Associated Press
47. Brandon Phillips, 2B, 36: His defense isn't Gold Glove-caliber anymore, but he still can be a fine contributor on offense (13 homers, 60 RBIs). PREDICTION: Mets, 2Y/$23M
47. Brandon Phillips, 2B, 36: His defense isn't Gold Glove-caliber anymore, but he still can be a fine contributor on offense (13 homers, 60 RBIs). PREDICTION: Mets, 2Y/$23M
Charles Rex Arbogast, AP
48. Curtis Granderson, OF, 37: The sun might be setting on this career, but he’s got a few good years left, even if his Dodgers stint proved a bust. PREDICTION: Phillies, 1Y/$14M. UPDATE: Blue Jays, 1Y/$5M.
48. Curtis Granderson, OF, 37: The sun might be setting on this career, but he’s got a few good years left, even if his Dodgers stint proved a bust. PREDICTION: Phillies, 1Y/$14M. UPDATE: Blue Jays, 1Y/$5M.
Mark Tenally, Associated Press
49. Carlos Beltran, DH, 41: His glove was given a “funeral” by the Astros in 2017. He's just a DH, but a decent one — if he even wants to keep playing. PREDICTION: Astros, 1Y/$13M. UPDATE: Retired.
49. Carlos Beltran, DH, 41: His glove was given a “funeral” by the Astros in 2017. He's just a DH, but a decent one — if he even wants to keep playing. PREDICTION: Astros, 1Y/$13M. UPDATE: Retired.
Frank Franklin II, Associated Press
50. Jaime Garcia, SP, 31: The summer trade to the Yankees didn’t work out all that well, but he’s a lefty innings-eater in a market that lacks them. PREDICTION: A's, 2Y/$28M. UPDATE: Blue Jays, 1Y/$10M.
50. Jaime Garcia, SP, 31: The summer trade to the Yankees didn’t work out all that well, but he’s a lefty innings-eater in a market that lacks them. PREDICTION: A's, 2Y/$28M. UPDATE: Blue Jays, 1Y/$10M.
David Dermer, Associated Press
THE NEXT 100
(In alphabetical order)
Fernando Abad, RP (Mets); Alex Avila, C (Diamondbacks); Pedro Alvarez, 1B; Brett Anderson, SP; Tony Barnette, RP; Darwin Barney, UT (Rangers); Matt Belisle, RP (Indians); Joaquin Benoit, RP (Nationals); Gregor Blanco, OF; Jerry Blevins, RP; Peter Bourjos, OF; Clay Buchholz, SP (Royals); Trevor Cahill, RP (A's); Andrew Cashner, SP (Orioles); Jhoulys Chacin, SP (Brewers); Tyler Chatwood, SP (Cubs); Jesse Chavez, RP (Rangers); Tyler Clippard, RP (Blue Jays); Bartolo Colon, SP (Rangers); Rajai Davis, OF (Indians); Jorge De La Rosa, RP (Diamondbacks); R.A. Dickey, SP; Stephen Drew, IF; Lucas Duda, 1B (Royals); Brian Duensing, RP; Zach Duke, RP (Twins); A.J. Ellis, C; Alcides Escobar, SS (Royals); Yunel Escobar, 3B; Andre Ethier, OF; Scott Feldman, SP; Doug Fister, SP (Rangers); Yovani Gallardo, SP (Brewers); Dillon Gee, RP; Conor Gillaspie, 3B; Miguel Gonzalez, SP; Luke Gregerson, RP (Cardinals); Jason Grilli, RP; Franklin Gutierrez, OF; J.J. Hardy, SS; Jeremy Hellickson, SP; David Hernandez, RP; Matt Holliday, DH; Nick Hundley, C (Giants); Tommy Hunter, RP (Phillies); Austin Jackson, OF; John Jaso, 1B; Howie Kendrick, 2B (Nationals); Brandon Kintzler, RP (Nationals); John Lackey, SP; Adam Lind, 1B (Yankees); Francisco Liriano, P (Tigers); Boone Logan, RP; Cameron Maybin (pictured, Marlins), OF; Dustin McGowan, RP; Tommy Milone, RP (Nationals); Miguel Montero, C; Matt Moore, SP; Jason Motte, RP (Cardinals); Peter Moylan, RP; Mike Napoli, DH (Indians); Daniel Nava, OF (Pirates); Juan Nicasio, RP (Mariners); Ricky Nolasco, SP (Royals); Bud Norris, RP (Cardinals); Seung-Hwan Oh, RP (Blue Jays); Mike Pelfrey, SP; Oliver Perez, RP; Glen Perkins, RP; Trevor Plouffe, 3B (Rangers); Chad Qualls, RP; Ryan Raburn, UT; Colby Rasmus, OF (Orioles); Jose Reyes, IF; Rene Rivera, C; Fernando Rodney, RP (Twins); Sergio Romo, RP (Rays); Hector Rondon, RP (Astros); Adam Rosales, SS; Fernando Salas, RP; Anibal Sanchez, SP (Braves); Hector Santiago, SP; Michael Saunders, OF (Orioles); Bryan Shaw, RP (Rockies); Kevin Siegrist, RP; Seth Smith, OF; Drew Smyly, SP (Cubs); Craig Stammen, RP; Drew Storen, RP; Huston Street, RP; Ichiro Suzuki, OF (Mariners); Anthony Swarzak, RP (Mets); Chris Tillman, SP (Orioles); Carlos Torres, RP; Chase Utley, 2B (Dodgers); Danny Valencia, 1B (Orioles); Hideaki Wakui, SP; Jayson Werth, OF; Matt Wieters, C; Chris B. Young, OF (Angels).
THE NEXT 100 (In alphabetical order) Fernando Abad, RP (Mets); Alex Avila, C (Diamondbacks); Pedro Alvarez, 1B; Brett Anderson, SP; Tony Barnette, RP; Darwin Barney, UT (Rangers); Matt Belisle, RP (Indians); Joaquin Benoit, RP (Nationals); Gregor Blanco, OF; Jerry Blevins, RP; Peter Bourjos, OF; Clay Buchholz, SP (Royals); Trevor Cahill, RP (A's); Andrew Cashner, SP (Orioles); Jhoulys Chacin, SP (Brewers); Tyler Chatwood, SP (Cubs); Jesse Chavez, RP (Rangers); Tyler Clippard, RP (Blue Jays); Bartolo Colon, SP (Rangers); Rajai Davis, OF (Indians); Jorge De La Rosa, RP (Diamondbacks); R.A. Dickey, SP; Stephen Drew, IF; Lucas Duda, 1B (Royals); Brian Duensing, RP; Zach Duke, RP (Twins); A.J. Ellis, C; Alcides Escobar, SS (Royals); Yunel Escobar, 3B; Andre Ethier, OF; Scott Feldman, SP; Doug Fister, SP (Rangers); Yovani Gallardo, SP (Brewers); Dillon Gee, RP; Conor Gillaspie, 3B; Miguel Gonzalez, SP; Luke Gregerson, RP (Cardinals); Jason Grilli, RP; Franklin Gutierrez, OF; J.J. Hardy, SS; Jeremy Hellickson, SP; David Hernandez, RP; Matt Holliday, DH; Nick Hundley, C (Giants); Tommy Hunter, RP (Phillies); Austin Jackson, OF; John Jaso, 1B; Howie Kendrick, 2B (Nationals); Brandon Kintzler, RP (Nationals); John Lackey, SP; Adam Lind, 1B (Yankees); Francisco Liriano, P (Tigers); Boone Logan, RP; Cameron Maybin (pictured, Marlins), OF; Dustin McGowan, RP; Tommy Milone, RP (Nationals); Miguel Montero, C; Matt Moore, SP; Jason Motte, RP (Cardinals); Peter Moylan, RP; Mike Napoli, DH (Indians); Daniel Nava, OF (Pirates); Juan Nicasio, RP (Mariners); Ricky Nolasco, SP (Royals); Bud Norris, RP (Cardinals); Seung-Hwan Oh, RP (Blue Jays); Mike Pelfrey, SP; Oliver Perez, RP; Glen Perkins, RP; Trevor Plouffe, 3B (Rangers); Chad Qualls, RP; Ryan Raburn, UT; Colby Rasmus, OF (Orioles); Jose Reyes, IF; Rene Rivera, C; Fernando Rodney, RP (Twins); Sergio Romo, RP (Rays); Hector Rondon, RP (Astros); Adam Rosales, SS; Fernando Salas, RP; Anibal Sanchez, SP (Braves); Hector Santiago, SP; Michael Saunders, OF (Orioles); Bryan Shaw, RP (Rockies); Kevin Siegrist, RP; Seth Smith, OF; Drew Smyly, SP (Cubs); Craig Stammen, RP; Drew Storen, RP; Huston Street, RP; Ichiro Suzuki, OF (Mariners); Anthony Swarzak, RP (Mets); Chris Tillman, SP (Orioles); Carlos Torres, RP; Chase Utley, 2B (Dodgers); Danny Valencia, 1B (Orioles); Hideaki Wakui, SP; Jayson Werth, OF; Matt Wieters, C; Chris B. Young, OF (Angels).
Eric Christian Smith, Associated Press