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MLB Free Agency: The top 30 free agents for 2018-2019

By David Hill

WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 26: Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) waves to the fans at Nationals Park after the game against the Miami Marlins was called due to rain. The players returned to the field to throw t-shirts and collectables after the final home game of the 2018 season. (Photo by Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - SEPTEMBER 26: Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) waves to the fans at Nationals Park after the game against the Miami Marlins was called due to rain. The players returned to the field to throw t-shirts and collectables after the final home game of the 2018 season. (Photo by Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
(Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images) /

30. Nelson Cruz

Offensively, Nelson Cruz would be one of the better players available in MLB free agency this year. The problem is, he is almost strictly a DH at this point, limited to the American League.

In theory, Cruz could still play right field. He had gotten regular playing time in the outfield as recently as 2016. The problem is, Cruz has a total of nine games in the outfield over the past two years, hardly leading anyone to think that he could survive in such a role over the course of a year.

That is unfortunate, as Cruz has continued to defy Father Time. The 38 year old put together another impressive season, posting a .256/.342/.509 batting line, hitting 37 homers. Those numbers were his lowest since 2013, and yet, Cruz has remained one of the best power threats in the game, even as he continues to age.

The slight dip in production, age, and defensive limitations will limit what Cruz is able to earn as a free agent. Although he is looking to get another multi-year contract, that may not be likely. Yes, he has been one of the premier power hitters in the game, but teams are shying away from giving long term contracts to aging players. If Cruz is adamant about getting multiple years in his next deal, he could be waiting for a long time.

Nelson Cruz certainly deserves a deal given his continued production. He just might not get the contract he thinks he should.

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