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MLB Free Agency: Are There Options for Josh Hamilton?

By Matt Meffe

May 25, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Texas Rangers left fielder Josh Hamilton (32) reacts in the dugout prior to a game against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
May 25, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Texas Rangers left fielder Josh Hamilton (32) reacts in the dugout prior to a game against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 4, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays hat and glove lay in the dugout against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays hat and glove lay in the dugout against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Toronto Blue Jays

Edwin Incarnation is gone, and Jose Bautista is likely on his way elsewhere. The Toronto Blue Jays did acquire Kendrys Morales and Steve Pearce via free agency to fill some necessary holes, but their production definitely does not match up to Bautista and Encarnacion. While acquiring Morales gives the Blue Jays a designated hitter, their acquisition of Pearce in a super utility-type of role still leaves an opening in the outfield. With that said, the Blue Jays may be a suitable option for Josh Hamilton. Hamilton is a power hitter who would fare well in the Rogers Centre, and his veteran presence in the outfield can help Kevin Pillar and Dalton Pompey.

Even though Hamilton is past his prime, a platoon of Hamilton and Pompey can be beneficial for both men. It allows Pompey to develop, and it lightens Hamilton’s load to prevent further injuries. Hamilton and Pompey could man right field together, with Ezequiel Carrera used as a backup and occasional starter. With his previous knee issues, it may be best for Hamilton to stay in the corner outfield positions, platooning with Pompey in right while occasionally filling in for Melvin Upton Jr. in left.

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