MLB Free Agency: Best Options for Jose Bautista
By Matt Meffe
Since 2009, Jose Bautista has led the Toronto Blue Jays through good times and bad. Now, the slugger enters free agency, and with the Blue Jays seemingly uninterested in signing him, many wonder where Bautista will go. It’s time to look at some potential options for the 36-year old outfielder.
In 2004, Jose Bautista made his Major League debut with the Baltimore Orioles. It was a tough ride for the young upstart, and Bautista did not last long in Baltimore. Bautista became the first player in history to appear on five Major League rosters in one season, mainly because no team knew what to do with him.
His first full season did not occur until 2006 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. That year, Bautista hit .235 with 16 home runs, and his future still remained unclear. The Pirates gave him a try at third base the following season, after Freddy Sanchez moved to second base. In 2007, he managed to raise his batting average while driving in twelve more runs from the previous season. In 2008, offensive struggles led to a demotion, followed by a trade that would change his career for the better.
The following season, Bautista began the season as a backup utility player. Bautista was left without a true position. As the season went along, Bautista was given a chance, and he made the most of it. In September, he broke out by hitting 10 home runs while driving in 21 runs, showing off his power potential.
The next season was a breakout season for Bautista, as he slugged 54 home runs. As a result, he became the Blue Jays all-time single season home run leader. Both his 2010 and 2011 campaigns ended with Bautista in consideration for the AL MVP Award. From 2012-2016, Bautista dealt with injuries, but still managed to have very good production at the plate. Now, Bautista is a free agent, and despite some down years he is still a valuable outfielder. Many teams have holes to fill in the outfield, and signing Bautista could definitely benefit their needs.