Ben Zobrist: Five potential free agency destinations

Nov 1, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; Kansas City Royals second baseman Ben Zobrist (18) turns a double play over New York Mets left fielder Michael Conforto (30) in the 7th inning in game five of the World Series at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Ben Zobrist is flying high after helping the Kansas City Royals bring home their first World Series title since 1985. His offseason should only get better, as he is poised to sign a new contract sometime over the next several months.

Zobrist is the rare type of all-around player that could probably improve just about any team to at least some degree. His versatility made him a hot-ticket item at last season’s trade deadline, and it should once again attract significant interest from around the league in free agency.

A 10-year veteran who spent time with the Rays and A’s before moving to KC last July, Zobrist has made an appearance at every position except catcher and pitcher at some point during his career. His most frequent spots, however, are second base and right field. He is a fairly capable defender for a jack-of-all-trades and has posted an average WAR of 5.6 since 2009, his first full season in the majors. On top of all that, he’s a switch-hitter to boot.

There are plenty of reasons to view Zobrist as an appealing free agent, but he does come with a few causes for concern. He will turn 35 next May, and recent reports have suggested that he could be in line for a three- or four-year deal. Zobrist has remained quite durable and productive throughout his career, but how confident are teams that he will he will stay that way through age 38? Interested clubs will have to decide.

Regardless, the flexibility that Zobrist brings is a valuable asset in today’s game and he should end up doing quite nicely wherever he lands. Here are five places that could be possible destinations for him.

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