The 2016 MLB season will once again be another chance for established players to prove they are valuable assets to their employers. But it will also be a chance for those left on the sidelines to show why they should have never been let go in the first place.
As of November 7, 2015, a total of 139 players were added to the free agent list and, while many have either retired or found new contracts, there are still a number of players who are still in search of a home.
In a recent article in the LA Times, Bill Shaikin looked forward to the coming season and suggested that some of the top free agents still without a club could actually make a strong side. Moreover, he also picked out some teams with gaps that the free players could easily slot in to.
Of course, Shaikin is no different from any other baseball analyst in that he has his own opinions. Whether you’re a casual fan or a sports betting expert, you’ll no doubt have some strong ideas on which teams will do well this year. Indeed, when you visit Canada’s number 1 bonus site for your sports betting you’ll find that the odds on offer will either confirm your opinions or go against them.
For example, if you’re a Cubs fan, then the 8/1 rating at the time of writing may well sit in line with your thoughts that they will be a threat for the 2016 World Series. However, if you’re a fan of the Blue Jays then 12/1 odds might not fill you with much confidence.
Again, like Shaikin, these odds are based on opinions (albeit informed ones), so you shouldn’t ever take them as a guarantee that a team will perform well. In fact, you should always consider a team’s current strength and future potential when you’re sizing up their chances over the course of a season.
With this in mind, here are three MLB sides that should do well in 2016 and the possible ways they could augment their chances by enlisting the services of Shaikin’s top free agents.
Chicago Cubs
“The Chicago Cubs — Wrigley Field Chicag” (CC BY 2.0) by Ron Cogswell
Consistency could be key for the Cubs this season, according to its top executives. Following a season where the team was forced to contend with six different starting times, the Cubs have decided to forgo 3:05 start times and, instead, the majority of their games will start at 1:20 or 7:05.
This consistency will certainly help hot prospects such as Adam Warren settle into the side and fulfil their potential. In fact, many experts believe Warren could be a dark horse in the Cubs’ set-up this year and help the side claim the World Series Crown.
Looking through Shaikin’s list of free agents, there could certainly be a place for David Freese in the team. However, his solid play is unlikely to give the Cubs that magic spark fans are looking for.
Boston Red Sox
“Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Daniel Bar” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Keith Allison
When it comes to the Red Sox, much of the pre-season talk has surrounded David Price’s contract. With a new deal agreed in December, the pitcher will be able to opt-out in 2018, so the Red Sox will be hoping to get the best out of him before he moves on.
However, beyond his own performances, the Red Sox management will be hoping Price can nurture the likes of Eduardo Rodriguez and Joe Kelly before he leaves. Of course, the weight of the team wouldn’t be solely on Price’s shoulders, but there’s no doubt his presence will be a major factor influencing the team’s season.
Could a free agent such as Yoenis Cespedes help bring some batting experience to the Red Sox and nurture the younger generation like Price? Almost certainly, however, with a few miles on the clock and an inability to play centre, there’s probably not much call for him in the team.
Toronto Blue Jays
“Toronto Blue Jays Celebration” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Keith Allison
Another top prospect in 2016 is the Blue Jays. However, following tension with their MVP, Josh Donaldson, the team could perform below expectations this season. The odds makers as of 19 January have the betting line for the Jays at 12/1. But with an arbitration hearing with Donaldson distracting the team ahead of spring training, those odds could easily change as the season moves closer.
Looking through Shaikin’s list of free agents, Howie Kendrick (2B) and Justin Morneau (1B) could be drafted in to fill the void if Donaldson decides to sideline himself. Of the two, Kendrick (with 9,500+ innings) could bring an air of experience to the side. However, the years could be catching up with him as he’s found second base a tough position to play in recent years. Regardless of his recent form, he’s certainly a strong player and he could be a valuable asset to a depleted a Jays side.
