MLB Free Agency: Five Free Agents That Teams May Regret Signing

The 2016-17 MLB free agent market has some notable big names, but isn’t necessarily that deep. Therefore, some signings may bring teams regret.

Outside of a couple big names, the 2017 free agent pool isn’t that special. There are big hitters like Mark Trumbo, Justin Turner, and Yoenis Cespedes available; along with star-studded closers Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen, and Mark Melancon. Outside of that, there is limited impact options, with the majority of free agents serving as utility players. The starting pitching pool is undeniably shallow, with perhaps the best talent being journeyman Rich Hill. Although the outfield is stacked with talent, the infield market is very slim. There are definitely valuable players in the infield, but no big contributors outside of Justin Turner.

Although teams will make signings that boost their talent, there are certainly duds on the market. Especially with the free agent pool being so old, the chances of overpaying a signing that doesn’t contribute is high. Teams will undoubtedly make mistakes this offseason, because there are always going to be busts. However, some busts seem crystal clear and teams should avoid wasting their time and money with these signings.

Whether it be age, a downward trend in performance, or the asking price for these players, clubs should refrain from signing these players. Teams will be careless, though, signing whatever talent they can get their hands on in attempt to bring home championship gold. These signing will not help these ball clubs, as they will only hinder their chances of succeeding now and in the future.

Teams on the brink of success are often the ones that make foolish free agent signings (I’m looking at you Anaheim and Josh Hamilton). So for whatever the reason may be, the following five players will seem very appealing to borderline teams, and these same borderline teams should avoid signing them at all costs.