Potential Free Agents: Top Five Catchers
By Aaron Somers
Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports
3. A.J. Pierzynski
Despite being the oldest of the group, as he’ll be 37 before next season begins, Pierzynski should still draw some interest on the market. Part of his appeal is the fact that he’d likely only require (maybe only offered) a one year deal. Teams can afford to pay a little more for a short term deal if they think he’ll make the difference. That’s the mindset that the Rangers had before they signed Pierzynski to a one year, $7.5 Million deal last winter.
He’s rewarded the team for the deal, hitting .280/.307/.449 in 463 PA. Numbers right in line with his career averages – .284/.323/.430, 16 HR, 73 RBI, 25 BB, 71 SO.
While he’s shown few signs of slowing down – he’s still thrown out 33% of attempted base stealers – it’s difficult to predict what Pierzynski will be looking for on the open market. One has to assume that he’ll want to continue playing, likely with a team that will give him an opportunity to play for another World Series title before he hangs up his cleats. On a one year deal for the right price, he might be an ideal option for a big-budgeted contender.