In the dynamic world of Major League Baseball free agency, some of the most intriguing storylines revolve around players who bring unique value propositions to the table. Among the top remaining free agents, Jack Flaherty stands out as a pitcher at a crossroads, contemplating short-term deals with high average annual values.
Flaherty's recent career trajectory has been notable, with his past season split between the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers. Over the last three years, his ERA+ scores—a key metric that adjusts a pitcher's earned run average for league context and park factors—have been a mixed bag, with marks of 93, 87, and a bounce-back figure of 127. These numbers, combined with his potential for dominance, make him an appealing target for teams seeking to bolster their pitching staffs.
Anthony Santander: A Bat to Watch
Ranking at No. 15 among free agents, Anthony Santander presents a compelling case for teams prioritizing offensive potency. Known for his ability to generate runs, Santander's stock is bolstered primarily by his performance at the plate. However, the outfielder's defensive and baserunning limitations have kept him from securing a long-term contract, despite his offensive prowess.
As noted by renowned sports journalist Ken Rosenthal, "Unfortunately, Santander doesn't bring much more to the table than his bat: he's not a good defender or baserunner, meaning interested clubs will have to be confident that he can sustain his well-above-average offensive production well into his 30s."
Brooks Raley: A Veteran's Offerings
The Yankees and Cubs are reportedly interested in adding veteran lefty reliever Brooks Raley to their bullpens. Raley, at 36 years old, is navigating a challenging phase of his career following Tommy John surgery, which limited him to just eight appearances last season. However, his resilience and previous performance—evidenced by an impressive 153 ERA+ since the start of the 2022 campaign—provide a tantalizing prospect for teams needing experienced relief pitching.
Braves Bet on Cooper's Experience
In a strategic move, the Atlanta Braves have signed former All-Star outfielder Garrett Cooper to their camp roster on a minor-league deal. At 34, Cooper brings a wealth of experience but also questions about current performance levels. Over his last 573 plate appearances, his batting line has been .242/.297/.395, translating to an 86 OPS+. This acquisition reflects the Braves' willingness to explore the potential upside of Cooper's veteran presence as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the offseason progresses, these players represent important puzzle pieces for franchises aiming to construct competitive rosters. Whether it's Flaherty's potential as a pivotal starter, Santander's offensive capabilities, Raley's veteran presence in the bullpen, or Cooper's experienced approach at the plate, each has the potential to significantly influence the teams they join in the coming season.