MLB Free Agency: Likely Landing Spots for Trevor Plouffe
By Nick Fustor
Several teams across Major League Baseball have expressed some sort of interest in free agent infielder Trevor Plouffe, but none have made a push for the 30-year-old.
After establishing himself as a mid-level power threat with solid on-base skills and average defense, Trevor Plouffe established himself as a reliable third baseman over six seasons with the Minnesota Twins. Entering 2016, Plouffe was expected to replicate his typical numbers – about 15 home runs, a batting average in the .250s and an OPS in the mid-700s.
But an injury-riddled 2016 campaign led to the team’s decision to give Miguel Sano a shot as the team’s everyday third baseman, and Plouffe was subsequently cut despite posting solid numbers. In seven seasons with Minnesota, Plouffe hit .247/.308/.420 with 96 home runs and 357 RBI.
In 84 games last season, Plouffe hit .260 with a .723 OPS and 12 home runs in 344 plate appearances. While Plouffe doesn’t excel in one particular area of the game, he’s proven to be an above-average hitter against left-handers.
Alex Smokoloff of Fan Rag Sports noted that Plouffe holds a .268 average with a .809 OPS in 791 career plate appearances against lefties. His ability to hit for average drops off against right-handers, but his power increases (27 career homers against LHP, 69 against RHP).
Some concerns arise for Plouffe given his track record away from Target Field, as his career average at home sits at .259 while his average in away games is just .233. While that drop-off presents some concerns, playing in the right park would likely ease them.
In addition to his relatively solid power numbers, Plouffe has consistently been able to limit his strikeout numbers and walk at a decent clip.
Plouffe’s asking price has been the main concern for teams throughout the offseason, but at this point, it’s easy to see Plouffe taking a one-year deal worth around $8 to $10 million. As MLB free agency enters its final stretch, Trevor Plouffe will likely sign as the demand for his power and versatility grows.