The MLB offseason has been entertaining thus far, but there are still big names in free agency. Here are World Baseball Network’s predictions for some of the stars remaining on the market.
Prediction: New York Mets
Cody Bellinger is an outstanding defender in the outfield and is versatile enough to play first base as well. He was solid against left-handed and right-handed pitching last season. He hit 29 home runs, which is the most since his MVP season in 2019. The Yankees reportedly want him back, but the Mets may be willing to outbid their crosstown rivals. The Mets traded away Brandon Nimmo and need help in the outfield and at first base. Bellinger would be a perfect fit, and the Yankees could make Jasson Dominguez an everyday player while also having room for Spencer Jones.
2. Kyle Tucker
Prediction: Toronto Blue Jays
Tucker is the best free agent still on the open market and has reportedly already visited the Blue Jays’ facility in Florida. He is a four-time All-Star, but did not have his best season this year. However, his home and away splits indicate that a change of scenery could get him back to being one of the best players in baseball. He had a .923 OPS on the road, but a .747 OPS at home. The Blue Jays have been very aggressive this winter, and that trend could continue with Tucker.
3. Bo Bichette
Prediction: New York Yankees
Anthony Volpe has not been great as the Yankees’ starting shortstop, and last season, his defense took a dive. He played through a shoulder injury, but he has not proven to be a productive hitter so far in his career. Bichette is one of the best hitters in baseball, and the Yankees could shuffle their infield to get him at second base, where his subpar defense may not be as big an issue. Additionally, there are rumors about the Yankees either trading Jazz Chisholm Jr. or letting him walk next offseason. Bichette could be a long-term addition to make the infield stable.
Prediction: New York Mets
The Mets have not made the big splashes many fans expected them to, but there is still time. Murakami is an option at both first and third base. The Mets could slot him in as the everyday first baseman after losing Pete Alonso. He had great power numbers in Nippon Professional Baseball, and the Mets need a way to replace Alonso’s production.