Now that the free agent market’s largest names are finding homes, things should begin to fall into place for some of this winter’s second tier talent. Veteran shortstop Jimmy Rollins falls into this category. Now that Jose Reyes has landed in Miami, the free agent market for Rollins figures to take shape. While the Phillies appear to be the leaders in the Rollins sweepstakes, the Cardinals could enter the bidding now that Albert Pujols is off the table.
Earlier this week, the chase for Rollins seemed to be down to two, the Phillies and Brewers. Milwaukee was a serious contender, but recently signed free agent shortstop Alex Gonzalez. The move indicated that the Brewers had moved on, as they had expressed a belief that Rollins would soon be re-signing with the Phillies.
While no deal was reported, the bowing out of the Brewers had many believing Rollins return to Philadelphia was imminent.
But then Albert Pujols decided to sign with the Angels.
Few people saw this coming, and now that they’ve lost their future Hall of Famer, the Cardinals have said that they are willing to reallocate money that was reserved for Pujols.
While the Cardinals have a gaping hole at first base, they also have a need at short. They seem to have interest in bringing back Rafael Furcal, but without Pujols’s bat in their lineup the Cardinals may feel that they need more offense from their shortstop.
Dan Lozano, Rollins’ agent, also represents Pujols. Now that he has taken care of Albert’s contract, he should have more time to focus on Rollins’ next deal.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.