Jack Flaherty Explores Short-Term Deals
Jack Flaherty, a notable name among the remaining free agents, is currently evaluating short-term contract offers that promise high average annual values. This strategic move could position him well for future negotiations, especially considering his recent experience dividing the past season between the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Flaherty's performance over the recent years presents a mixed picture. His ERA+ scores stand at 93, 87, and a marked improvement to 127 over the past three years. This fluctuation in his performance might explain the hesitancy of teams to secure him for a long-term commitment. Yet, the inclination towards short-term contracts could offer Flaherty a chance to prove his consistency on the mound, which might eventually lead to more lucrative, longer-term opportunities.
Anthony Santander: An Offensive Asset
Ranked at No. 15 among free agents, Anthony Santander has managed to capture attention primarily due to his bat. However, his prospects have been dampened by limitations in defense and baserunning, which raises questions about his long-term viability. As quoted by 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."
Despite these concerns, Santander's offensive prowess remains an undeniable asset, and it will be intriguing to see which teams are willing to invest in his batting capabilities while accounting for his defensive shortcomings.
Interest Grows in Brooks Raley
Veteran left-handed reliever Brooks Raley has drawn interest from notable teams such as the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs. At 36, Raley presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Having undergone Tommy John surgery, his recent season was limited to a mere eight appearances. Nonetheless, his impressive 153 ERA+ since the start of the 2022 campaign signals that he might still possess the effectiveness teams desire in a seasoned bullpen arm.
The Yankees and Cubs' interest suggests a recognition of Raley's potential to contribute meaningfully, albeit after a season characterized by recovery and limited play. The question remains whether these teams will be willing to offer a contract that balances risk and potential reward effectively.
Garrett Cooper Joins Braves on a Minor-League Deal
In a move that highlights both prudence and potential, the Atlanta Braves have added former All-Star outfielder Garrett Cooper to their camp roster on a minor-league deal. Cooper, at 34, offers experience and a past peak performance, yet his recent statistics show room for improvement. Over his last 573 plate appearances, Cooper's batting line stands at .242/.297/.395, which corresponds to an 86 OPS+.
Signing Cooper on a minor-league deal allows the Braves an opportunity to assess his current form and potential contribution to the team's depth, particularly if he can recapture the form that once earned him All-Star recognition.
As the off-season progresses, these players embody the strategic complexity facing baseball teams as they balance the desire for immediate impact, potential upside, and the intricacies involved in player performance and health risk assessments. Each decision will not only shape the trajectory of individual careers but also the competitive fabric of the teams investing in these talents.