MLB Free Agency: Five Potential Landing Spots for George Springer
By Travis Koch
George Springer hits MLB free agency for the first time in his career as the top outfielder on the market. These five teams will be anxious pursuers for the Houston Astros’ star.
Having declined the Houston Astros‘ $18.9 million qualifying offer, outfielder George Springer is officially open for business on the MLB free agent market. Investors won’t be shy in their attempts to woo the three-time All-Star. Look no further than these five clubs to jump to the front of the line.
The New York Mets’ Case for Springer
MLB enthusiasts keep guiding George Springer to the New York Mets this offseason. I’m not so sure I see it.
The Mets’ outfield unit was spectacular in 2020. Right fielder Michael Conforto hit .322 with a .412 OBP, left fielder Jeff McNeil hit .311 with a .383 OBP, and center fielder Brandon Nimmo hit .280 with a .404 OBP. The trio averaged a .884 OPS.
Granted, they were not the most formidable on defense. But which outfield bat would the Mets sacrifice to make room for Springer?
More immediately, how does Dominic Smith factor into New York’s plans given the expectation that the universal DH will take a hiatus in 2021? Smith’s .993 OPS was the highest among Mets and the seventh highest in MLB in 2020. He also led the offense in RBI and WAR.
Before Smith got to DH, he split time between left field and first base. Pete Alonso now locks down first. McNeal, the Mets’ primary left fielder this season, can also play throughout the infield. If, for example, McNeil were to transition to third base, Smith could play left field. Still, a spot eludes George Springer.
Yes, Springer would improve the New York Mets on both sides of the ball. However, the Mets’ front office has plenty to work out to make a Springer signing possible and logical. Let’s see what owner Steve Cohen draws up in his inaugural MLB offseason.