San Francisco Giants: Where Will Andrew McCutchen Play in 2019?

A clear picture

Until the 2018 season ends, the clear picture of where McCutchen will play the following year is a mystery. Since we do know which players are headed toward free agency with him, we can make some assumptions as to where openings may become available.

Using this information, there are a few teams I could see McCutchen suiting up for.

Cleveland Indians

The cost-conscious Cleveland Indians may find a bargain when hunting for star power next winter. They are in danger of losing Michael Brantley and Lonnie Chisenhall to free agency. Now, this leaves them in search of some outside help.

To make up for their potential loss, they could target McCutchen with the plan to eventually use him in a DH role once Edwin Encarnacion’s contract expires. He’d be an upgrade over those two and provide the Indians with a more extensive window to compete before the core leaves and/or ages.

Seattle Mariners

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There’s no telling how long Nelson Cruz will play baseball. The veteran slugger turns 38 this summer and has shown no signs of slowing down. Just because he hasn’t crashed yet doesn’t mean the Mariners won’t consider McCutchen as his eventual replacement in the DH role.

In the meantime, if they play together on the same roster for a year or two, McCutchen can continue to put his glove to work. The Mariners are taking plenty of risks with their outfield. As a right-handed hitter, McCutchen would also help balance things a little better.

Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals look like an ideal fit for McCutchen. Bryce Harper is unlikely to stay for the long haul, leaving the Nationals without an experienced right fielder for 2019. While they could employ an outfield of Adam Eaton, Michael Taylor, and top prospect Victor Robles, veteran help would go a long way.

Next: Minnesota Twins: Top 10 Rookie-Eligible Prospects for 2018

The Nationals will need to make wise free agent decisions in the coming years. Thus far, they haven’t been burned by any major deals. Signing McCutchen could backfire, but also give them a great alternative to Harper.