Anthony Santanders Free Agency Journey: Potential Landing Spots and Market Value
As the 2025 spring training approaches, the landscape of Major League Baseball (MLB) free agency has begun to take shape, with many of the top players having finalized their new contracts. However, one prominent figure still on the market is former Baltimore Orioles right fielder Anthony Santander. Despite concluding a successful season with 44 home runs, questions regarding his overall value have created a disparity between his perceived worth and the offers he is receiving from teams.
Recent reports indicate that the Toronto Blue Jays have officially extended an offer to Santander, while multiple other teams are still in pursuit. At the beginning of the offseason, projections for Santander's contract ranged widely, with estimates including a four-year, $80 million deal from MLB Trade Rumors and a five-year, $88.7 million suggestion from Spotrac. Some analysts have proposed a five-year deal worth as much as $100 million, reflecting a shared belief in Santander's capacity to deliver significant power, averaging 36 home runs and 99 RBIs per 162 games over the last six years. However, as negotiations extend, it appears teams are considering shorter-term contracts, apprehensive about committing large sums to a player whose skills may not encompass a broader range of contributions beyond his power hitting.
Throughout the league, potential landing spots for Santander are being evaluated. The Colorado Rockies, while unlikely to contend for a top spot in the NL West, could still benefit from his ability to perform at Coors Field. The Washington Nationals may not pursue him heavily, albeit the possibility remains. The San Diego Padres have not yet replaced Jurickson Profar, yet their budget may not allow for Santander's expected salary. Teams like the Oakland Athletics and San Francisco Giants also find themselves weighing their payrolls and priorities as they navigate potential interest. Additionally, the Kansas City Royals, Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Angels present intriguing circumstances that may benefit from adding a player like Santander to bolster their respective lineups.