According to recent reports, including one from Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, free agent outfielder Nori Aoki is drawing interest from several clubs – but only to the extent of two-year deals. Among those with interest are the reigning World Series champion San Francisco Giants and the Baltimore Orioles.
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Aoki spent 2014 with the American League pennant-winning Kansas City Royals, appearing 132 games for Ned Yost‘s club, batting .285/.349/.360 to go along with 17 stolen bases and 43 RBI. Prior to last season, he spent a pair of years with the Milwaukee Brewers after coming over from Japan ahead of the 2012 campaign.
The 33-year-old outfielder is known for his prowess in reaching base and with Baltimore losing both Nelson Cruz (who, admittedly served primarily as the O’s designated hitter) and longtime outfielder Nick Markakis – they are one of the teams in dire need of outfield help heading into 2015.
However, manager Buck Showalter reportedly met with another free agent option Colby Rasmus, who is a top target for the Orioles – likely on a one-year deal. Last season was a struggle for the former Blue Jays outfielder batted .225/.287/.448 – and he will likely look to re-establish his value on a short-term contract.
Aoki represents a more attractive option – at least in terms of offensive value. His career OPS (although in just three seasons as opposed to Rasmus’ six) is .741, while Rasmus comes in at .751. In terms of on-base percentage, the former Japanese standout checks in around 40 points higher – a .353 mark compared to a .313 clip.
Last year, both players were near-identical in terms of offensive value, measuring at a 1.7 oWAR. In 2013, Aoki performed similarly at 1.8 – while Rasmus put up a more attractive 3.3. oWAR. In essence, with Rasmus, you’re likely to get highs and lows – while Aoki may be less impressive – he’s consistent.
One other option for the Orioles could be Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andre Ethier. According to an MASN report, Baltimore has checked in on him given the team’s surplus of outfield options. Of course, that was somewhat improved by the Dodgers dealing Matt Kemp to the San Diego Padres. He could be one of the more attractive options available, but would likely cost more – both in terms of dollars and prospect return.
There’s no doubt Aoki will provide value for the Orioles or whatever team he signs with. The Giants, of course, are coming off their third World Series in five years. The team has Hunter Pence, Angel Pagan and Gregor Blanco lined up in the outfield heading into 2015 – but adding a piece like Aoki would only serve as an insurance policy for the team’s success.