MLB Free Agency is in full effect, with the New York Mets signing Todd Frazier. How does this move impact other free agents, especially Mike Moustak?
MLB Free Agency is starting to heat up a bit, with the New York Mets joining the party, inking Todd Frazier to a two-year deal with $17 million. The New York Yankees were in pursuit of Frazier as well, but what will they do now after losing out to their rivals from down the block?
Todd Frazier comes off the board, reportedly joining the Mets on a two-year, $17 million deal: https://t.co/maEznA0uol
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) February 6, 2018
It appears the Bronx Bombers are turning their sights to Mike Moustakas, who would be a perfect fit playing in the Big Apple. “Moos”-stakas, as the Kansas City Royals faithful have called him, had a stellar 2017 All-Star campaign — .272/ .314/.521. 38 home runs. 85 RBI. Moustakas’ breakout season came in 2015, earning his first All-Star appearance and guiding the Kansas City Royals to their first World Series title in 30 years.
Moustakas made $8.7 million in 2017, with his asking price in MLB Free Agency skyrocketing to around $16 million per season — with a five-year contract (give or take) likely. Is he worth a long-term commitment and all of that crazy “jack”?
DAYTON on MOUSTAKAS: “We felt that Hos is the priority. We have options at third. I wouldn’t say absolutely not. We want to make it clear that Hos is the player that fits us for the future. I want to get through the Hosmer negotiations before we work on Moustakas."
— Soren Petro (@SorenPetro) February 5, 2018
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It depends on who you’re asking. For the Kansas City Royals, definitely not. Re-signing Eric Hosmer is priority number one, and it’s unlikely they keep both players. Royals GM Dayton Moore spoke candidly, admitting that keeping Moustakas is a longshot.
The Yankees on the other hand, have been building up their team this MLB Free Agency period. With a stacked roster and solid pitching, they are missing just a few essential parts. After trading Sterlin Castro to the Marlins, second base is a priority, as well as the hot corner.
Signing Moustakas and paying him more than what he’s worth is not a bad move for the Yankees. He won’t have the pressure of being “the guy” and will fit in nicely towards the bottom of their stout lineup. It’s winning now time for the Yankees and Moustakas could be what puts them over the top in 2018.
Next: David Wright opens up about his MLB future
MLB Free Agency is finally starting to move faster than a snail’s pace — thank goodness. Mike Moustakas could be the next third basemen snagged up, and his likely destination is in the Big Apple with the New York Yankees.