Are you a fan of all-out chaos? Do you like absolute insanity that will undoubtedly blow your mind? Well, then you must be a fan of the MLB offseason, where nobody is safe, nobody is off limits, and nobody is untouchable.
Every year, the offseason provides us with roster moves that completely change the landscape of each league. Trades, signings of free agents, contract extensions, coaching and managerial changes, and more are always expected, and can happen at the snap of a finger.
Last offseason featured a stacked class of free agents. Daniel Murphy, Yoenis Cespedes, Chris Davis, Justin Upton and Johnny Cueto among others were all on the market. Out of those five alone, three changed teams, while two stayed with their respective clubs.
Zack Greinke also inked a huge deal with the Diamondbacks. David Price signed a large contract with the Red Sox. Jason Heyward declined a contract to remain in St. Louis to sign a lucrative deal with the Cubs. The Royals managed to keep Alex Gordon, but not Ben Zobrist, who signed a four-year contract with the Cubs. John Lackey and Jordan Zimmermann also changed teams by going to the Cubs and Tigers, respectively. The list of free agents last year was incredibly packed with talent, and the hot stove was hotter than ever.
This year, the list of free agents is not as widespread. There are still some big names on the market this offseason, and all of those big names are expected to receive very lucrative deals. This offseason, the fates of six standout performers lie in all 30 teams’ hands. All of these free agents have enjoyed relatively successful 2016 campaigns, which drastically increases their value. The question as this offseason commences: where will these players ultimately go?