Free Agent Matrix: Where will Eric Hosmer head this winter?
While the Hot Stove is a beautiful respite from the dreary world, it can be complicated sometimes. To help, we've created the Cespedes Family BBQ Free Agent Matrix to determine where this offseason's top free agents could end up.
After seven stellar years in Kansas City, including a World Series title in 2015,
First and foremost, Hosmer is coming off a career year in which he hit .318/.385/.498 with 25 dingers and 94 RBIs. Last week, he won his fourth career Gold Glove Award and first career Silver Slugger Award for his outstanding season. However, it's not just Hosmer's performance that will pique teams' interest: He's also one of the youngest players on the market, as he'll be only 28 on Opening Day 2018.
So where is Hosmer most likely to land? Let's take a look.
The Dark Horses
Mariners: The Mariners have been searching for a more permanent first-base solution for several years now.
Rockies: Add Hosmer to the MVP-caliber duo of
Cardinals: There have already been rumors surrounding St. Louis this offseason regarding its interest in bringing in a big bat. The Cardinals could go after Hosmer, move Carpenter back to third (or second) and bolster their offense that way. Only time will tell if Hosmer has any desire to stay in the state.
The Favorites
Red Sox: For a team that won the AL East, Boston's offense in 2017 was rather underwhelming. It ranked 22nd in OPS, 27th in home runs, and ultimately couldn't keep up with the Astros offense come postseason time (to be fair, no one could). With
Royals: Of the three star hitters entering free agency after lengthy stints in Kansas City (Hosmer,
Our Predictions
Jake: Cardinals.
Jordan: Red Sox.