Flaherty Weighs His Options as Free Agency Heats Up
In the dynamic world of Major League Baseball's free agency, few names have garnered as much interest as Jack Flaherty. The right-handed pitcher is assessing short-term offers promising high average annual values, highlighting his status as one of the top remaining free agents. Flaherty's potential contract decisions could significantly impact postseason contenders looking to bolster their pitching staff.
Flaherty's journey last season took him from the Tigers to the Dodgers, where he showed glimpses of brilliance amidst struggles. His ERA+ scores — 93, 87, and 127 over the past three years — reveal a pitcher capable of high performance yet still seeking consistency. Teams see value in his potential, understanding the immediate impact he could have, especially on a short-term deal that limits long-term risk.
Santander's Value Centered on Offensive Prowess
Meanwhile, Anthony Santander stands out as another enticing free agent, ranked No. 15. The slugger's power at the plate draws teams’ attention, but questions about his defensive and baserunning skills have prevented long-term offers. "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," noted Ken Rosenthal, reflecting a common sentiment among MLB analysts. Teams considering Santander must weigh the benefits of his offense against potential liabilities in other aspects of his game.
Interest in Raley Despite Recent Setbacks
Veteran left-handed reliever Brooks Raley has also captured interest, notably from the Yankees and Cubs. At 36, Raley's recent history includes undergoing Tommy John surgery, restricting him to just eight appearances last season. However, his 153 ERA+ since the start of the 2022 campaign indicates a player who, when healthy, can provide significant value out of the bullpen. Both teams are evaluating if Raley, despite his age and recent surgery, can recreate his top form during critical moments in the season.
Cooper Looks for a Comeback with Braves
The Braves made a strategic move by signing former All-Star outfielder Garrett Cooper to their camp roster on a minor-league deal. At 34, Cooper is hoping to recalibrate his career after recording a batting line of .242/.297/.395 (86 OPS+) over his last 573 plate appearances. The Braves are providing him an opportunity to demonstrate his readiness to contribute at the major league level, with the hope that he can reclaim the prowess that once made him a formidable player in the league.
These free agency narratives underscore not only the intricacies of constructing a competitive MLB roster but also the diverse factors teams must consider when evaluating talent. For players like Flaherty, Santander, Raley, and Cooper, this offseason represents both a challenge and an opportunity to redefine their careers and make significant contributions to their prospective teams.