Predicting where big-name free agents will go
The Paper Cup is over, which means the offseason officially begins tonight. There are plenty of players that are entering free agency, and many of their landing spots are still a mystery. Of course, that's the fun of predictions, isn't it? Here are some free agents and where I expect them to go in the ensuing offseason.
Henrik Omega (3B) - Tampa Bay Devil Rays
In Session 12 of last season, the Phillies were involved in a three-team trade that sent Owen Uridge to the Astros in and Wade Wilson to the Devil Rays. The Phillies got Henrik Omega in this trade from the Devil Rays, a team he had signed with just a session prior after the collapse of the Washington Nationals.
Fresh off a championship, I see Omega wanting to return to the team he initially intended to sign with. There are reportedly some good vibes between Omega and his former team, and we could see a proper reunion where Omega picks up full-time responsibilities for the club.
Other Possible Landing Spots: ARI, CLE, OAK
Chuck McCluster (3B) - Philadelphia Phillies
Chuck McCluster's name haunts the nightmares of Philadelphia GM Jayson Burdwell. Considered a bust to the Phillies manager, he subsequently traded him to the Red Sox as a relief effort, in a time where the Red Sox were a struggling franchise. McCluster grew into one of the more respectable players in the league, a coveted asset in terms of player activity.
The Phillies have been reported to be heavily coveting McCluster, trying to get him to return to the ballclub for a proper spot on the roster. Meanwhile, however, Arizona has reportedly been hot on McCluster's tail as well after the departure of longtime third baseman Rich Poorman (formally Tsar Zaar). McCluster's landing spot will be a mystery; there may be a draw to cuckhold the GM who slighted him in his career's infancy, though Philadelphia's championship status speaks for itself.
Other Possible Landing Spots: ARI, CLE, MIL
Einhorn (P) - Arizona Diamondbacks
There have been many exciting stories buzzing around Einhorn and his expected landing spot, and to be honest it's been all over the place. It all points back to one man, however, for the most part: Nikc Cafardo. Cafardo is known for spinning complicated stories as well as his affiliation with the Diamondbacks. I think it's no secret that Einhorn plans to re-sign, and we should see that happen very quickly in the offseason.
Other Possible Landing Spots: TBD, HOU, MIL, CLE
Dominus Nominus (LF) - Philadelphia Phillies
Dominus Nominus has been linked to two teams off the bat: the Philadelphia Phillies and the Toronto Blue Jays He has been quoted as saying he'll sign with whoever wins the Paper Cup, and after Thursday's championship result, that appears to be the Phillies. Whether that was a serious proposition remains to be seen, but the Phillies should be a favorite as of now.
Other Possible Landing Spots: TOR, BOS, TBD, NYM
G.H. Morello (SS) - Cleveland Indians
G.H. Morello may be hopeful to find a landing place this offseason, but I don't think the free agent market will do him kindly. He has been tossed around all last season, leaving many perhaps to see him as a danger to their clubhouse. Morello would do well to solidify himself in one club, in this case on the Indians, and show himself a longterm and safe option to sign. Perhaps he should stay put and try a move at a later time.
Other Possible Landing Spots: MIL, HOU, TEX, TOR
J.D. De Las Rosas (2B) - Houston Astros
Amongst a lot of positions, the Astros will be looking to fill second base after the departure of Bear Thomas. De Las Rosas, a Houston native, could be a perfect fit for them. Both De Las Rosas and Thomas are right-handed, making for little disparity between the bats, and both are rather active clubhouse presences. This could be a good fit for both parties.
Other Possible Landing Spots: OAK, STL, LAA
Garren Smudge (C) - New York Yankees
The dude's Discord name was "Smudge in Pinstripes" this ain't a fucking puzzle.
Other Landing Spots: My asshole
