Top 20 free agents & where they’ll sign part 2

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SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – OCTOBER 15: Mitch Haniger #17 of the Seattle Mariners reacts after striking out during the fourth inning against the Houston Astros in game three of the American League Division Series at T-Mobile Park on October 15, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

1 Year/$16 Million with the New York Yankees

Mitch Haniger is typically good when healthy, but staying on the field is an issue. Whether it’s a ruptured testicle or another freak injury, there’s always something keeping the poor guy off the field. Haniger broke out in 2018 with the Seattle Mariners, batting .285/.366/.493 in 157 games and 596 AB, adding 26 home runs and 93 RBI, producing a spectacular 6.5 WAR.

He followed that up with a .220/.314/.463 batting line in 2019, with 15 home runs and 32 RBI. Haniger missed the entire 2020 season, but came back in 2021 to bat .253/.318/.485 in 157 games and 620 AB, producing 39 HR, 100 RBI and a 3.1 WAR. 2022 was a disappointment of a contract year for Haniger, as he batted .247/.308/.429 with 11 home runs and 34 RBI in 57 games and 224 AB.

I strongly suspect that the 31 year old will have to take a 1 year deal to prove that he’s healthy and productive. This would be a better deal for him then say a multi-yeardeal with a low average annual value. What teams could be in the mix for him? I could see Seattle wanting him back, I can also see the Miami Marlins, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Guardians and Texas Rangers in the mix. The Minnesota Twins and the Chicago White Sox could have interest as well. I do think that the New York Yankees will end up winning the bidding.

Before you say that this he isn’t a good replacement for you know who, I do expect the Bronx Bombers swinging a couple of trades or just a trade along the way.

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