Jack Flaherty: A Coveted Pitcher Weighing His Options
In the current free-agent market, Jack Flaherty stands out as a premier talent considering his next move. Known for his pitching prowess, Flaherty has caught the eye of several teams anxious to add his skills to their rosters. His focus appears to be on securing a short-term deal with a high average annual value, reflecting his belief in both his current worth and potential upside.
Last season saw Flaherty divide his time between the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Dodgers, an experience that underscored his versatility and resilience. Through fluctuating performances, he maintained a respectable presence on the mound. His ERA+ scores over the past three years—93, 87, and 127—offer a snapshot of his evolving capabilities. This spectrum suggests not only the challenges Flaherty has faced but also the potential he continues to hold as he navigates his free agency.
Anthony Santander: Offensive Skills Shine Amidst Limitations
Ranked No. 15 among free agents, Anthony Santander presents a compelling case for teams seeking to bolster their offensive lineup. Primarily valued for his batting, Santander has demonstrated considerable ability at the plate. However, as Ken Rosenthal points out, "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."
This evaluation captures the central conundrum surrounding Santander. Teams interested in signing him must weigh the potential benefits of his offensive prowess against the limitations posed by his defensive and baserunning shortcomings. His ability to maintain his offensive output into his thirties will likely be a critical factor in negotiating any long-term contracts.
Brooks Raley: A Veteran Drewing Attention Despite Recent Surgery
Meanwhile, veteran left-handed reliever Brooks Raley is attracting interest from clubs like the Yankees and Cubs. At 36 years old, Raley comes with both the benefits of experience and the drawbacks of recent injuries. His recent Tommy John surgery curtailed his season to a mere eight appearances, yet his impressive 153 ERA+ since the start of the 2022 campaign speaks volumes about his effectiveness when healthy.
Raley's situation demands careful consideration from interested teams. While his age and injury history might raise concerns, his success over the past year indicates that he still possesses the potential to contribute significantly to whichever bullpen he joins.
Garrett Cooper: A Return to Form with the Braves
In a strategic move, the Atlanta Braves have added former All-Star outfielder Garrett Cooper to their camp roster on a minor-league deal. At 34, Cooper is looking to revive his career following a spell of less-than-stellar performances. Over his last 573 plate appearances, Cooper has posted a batting line of .242/.297/.395, with an OPS+ of 86.
The Braves' decision to sign Cooper indicates a low-risk investment in a player who has shown flashes of potential in his career. It serves as an opportunity for Cooper to re-establish his credentials and potentially secure a more stable position within the league.
In this offseason marked by strategic plans and calculated risks, these four players exemplify the myriad considerations teams must assess. As Jack Flaherty and Anthony Santander deliberate their options, Brooks Raley and Garrett Cooper begin new chapters, each with the potential to redefine their careers. The unfolding developments are sure to capture the attention of fans and analysts alike as teams look to refine their rosters for the coming season.