Potential Buy-Low Steals in the MLB Free Agent Market
As the MLB offseason progresses, several prominent free agents remain available on the market. With the passage of time, the available pool of players decreases, prompting teams to consider budget-friendly options. Outfielder Jurickson Profar, starting pitcher Jack Flaherty, and relief pitchers Kirby Yates and Luke Weaver were among last offseason's successful bargain signings. This winter, Profar, Flaherty, and Yates are expected to secure substantial increases in their contracts. This article highlights seven players deemed potential buy-low candidates who could offer greater value than their anticipated salaries.
One intriguing name is Josh Bell. The 32-year-old infielder had a modest statistical performance last season, finishing with a .249 batting average and a 98 OPS+. Despite the underwhelming numbers, Bell showed promise after being traded from the Miami Marlins to the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he achieved a 121 OPS+ in 41 games. His career averages of 24 home runs and 87 RBIs per 162 games position him as a cost-effective source of power, particularly valuable at the first base or designated hitter slots.
Catcher Elias Díaz, aged 34, is another player with potential. After being named the MVP of the 2023 All-Star Game, Díaz struggled somewhat post-break but maintained a strong overall performance, concluding the season with a line of .267/.316/.409 and 72 RBIs. The San Diego Padres added him as a backup in the postseason, showcasing his utility. With the current catcher market experiencing multi-year deals for players like Kyle Higashioka and Travis d'Arnaud, Díaz could represent a significant bargain.
Austin Hays, who is 29 years old, was a notable non-tender player this offseason. Although he faced difficulties transitioning from the Baltimore Orioles to the Philadelphia Phillies midseason, Hays holds a solid history of offensive production, evidenced by his All-Star selection in 2023 and a notable performance against left-handed pitching. His experience positions him well for a potentially valuable contract, likely resembling the deals recently secured by other veteran outfielders.
Yoan Moncada's situation presents an interesting buy-low opportunity. Once celebrated as a top international prospect, Moncada's early promise has been clouded by inconsistent performance and injuries. After showing flashes of brilliance during his early career, he has logged only 6.4 WAR over the life of a five-year extension. At 29 years old, he may be able to bounce back and contribute positively, if he can secure an opportunity on a minor league deal and earn his place in an Opening Day roster.
Reliever Paul Sewald, aged 34, enters free agency with a mixed bag of results from the previous season. Once renowned as a top finisher, Sewald's numbers dipped significantly, primarily due to a drop in fastball velocity and command issues. His previous three seasons, however, reveal a stellar track record, leading to speculation that a change in environment could revitalize his career.
Another player worth noting is Spencer Turnbull, who, at 32, demonstrated promise following an injury to Taijuan Walker that allowed him to start the season in the rotation. Despite a solid beginning, an injury sidelined him for much of the latter season. Given his demonstrated ability when healthy, teams may find him appealing, particularly as a potential starter or long-relief option.
Trevor Williams, also 32, was on track to be a highly sought-after pitcher before an injury interrupted his performance. In the early months of the season, he exhibited dominant form but faced setbacks due to a flexor strain. Nevertheless, he returned before season’s end, demonstrating he was ready to contribute, which could prompt interest from teams seeking reliable players as they navigate the offseason.