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MLB Free Agency: Best Options for Jose Bautista

By Matt Meffe

Oct 17, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Jose Bautista (left) hits a single against Cleveland Indians catcher Roberto Perez (right) during the third inning in game three of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Jose Bautista (left) hits a single against Cleveland Indians catcher Roberto Perez (right) during the third inning in game three of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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July 15, 2011; San Diego, CA, USA; General view of a San Francisco Giants logo on the sleeve of right fielder Nate Schierholtz (12) during the fifth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

San Francisco Giants

This season, all signs pointed to the Giants to make it to the World Series and win. It was an even-numbered year, which automatically meant the Giants were a favorite.

However, the Giants ran into the Cubs in the NLDS, and were eliminated by the eventual World Series winners in four games. Next season, the Giants will still have Hunter Pence and Denard Span manning the outfield, with Mac Williamson serving as a backup. The Giants may benefit from signing a player like Bautista to fill left field.

A move to a new ballpark may affect Bautista’s production. Take into consideration AT&T Park’s reputation as a pitcher’s park, and this move may not be wise for the 36-year old slugger. However, the Giants lack power, and struggled offensively last season.

A move to get Bautista may give the Giants a boost of offense that they desperately lacked. San Francisco was ninth in the NL in runs scored last season, and 13th in home runs. Bautista is getting older, and his production may be affected because of it.

However, he is worth the Giants taking the chance, as he still provides 30-home run potential and flexibility at first and third.

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