Lawrence Butler Agrees to Seven-Year Extension with Athletics
ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported late Thursday night that the Athletics and outfielder Lawrence Butler have agreed to a seven-year extension worth $65.5 million. The deal also includes a club option.
The Athletics made Butler a sixth round selection in the 2018 MLB Draft out of Westlake High School in Atlanta.
Butler represented the A’s during the 2023 MLB Futures Game. He was called up to Oakland that year, where he only had a slash of .211/.240/.341, in 129 plate appearances.
The offensive struggles carried over into the first half of 2024 for Butler, as he put up a .211/.280/.406 line. Major adjustments were made at the plate in the second half - slashing .300/.345/.553. He finished the year with a 131 OPS+, along with an oWAR of 3.0 WAR.
On the defensive side, Butler recorded -1 Defensive Run Saved. However, among qualified, American League right fielders, he had the best Range Factor per nine at 2.38.
While it remains to be seen if Butler can produce stellar, offensive numbers over a full season, Athletics’ management seems to think that he can be a potential cornerstone piece for them with Sacramento and the eventual move to Las Vegas.
10 Best Free Agent Bargain Signings of the MLB Offseason
As we’re a month away from pitchers & catchers reporting for spring training, teams are beginning to fill out their rosters, for the most part. Some additions make sense, in terms of fit, as well as cost. Here are the 10 most notable free agent bargain signings, to this point of the offseason.
Andrew McCutchen - Pittsburgh Pirates: 2025 will be Andrew McCutchen’s 17th MLB season.
Last year, McCutchen hit 20 home runs, while posting a 105 wRC+, in 515 plate appearances. He continued to show a good approach at the plate by drawing walks at a solid, 11.3% clip.
McCutchen re-signed with the Pirates, on another one-year, $5 million dollar deal, which is a bargain based on his decent power, despite coming off his age 37 season.
Blake Treinen - Los Angeles Dodgers: Much has been made about the outrageous spending of the LA Dodgers this offseason, but one move that has flown under the radar, with their flurry of big transactions, is the re-signing of Blake Treinen at two years, $22 million.
The 36-year-old righty had a terrific, 2024 season, in the Dodgers’ bullpen, as he registered a 1.93 ERA, a 2.99 FIP, and a K/9 of 10.8 (56 K in 46.2 IP).
During his last four seasons with the Dodgers, Treinen has an ERA+ of 182 over 154 appearances.
Caleb Thielbar - Chicago Cubs: Caleb Thielbar’s first eight big league seasons were spent in the Minnesota Twins’ bullpen.
Thielbar struggled last season, with a 5.32 ERA, although he had a better FIP of 4.10, in 59 games pitched.
The Cubs inked the 37-year-old southpaw, to a one-year deal worth $2.75 million. Thielbar owns a career 123 ERA+, so if he’s able to bounce back, it could be one of the best “buy-low” reliever signings of the offseason.
Donovan Solano - Seattle Mariners: It’s no secret that the Seattle Mariners are searching for offensive help, this after missing the postseason a year ago, despite an incredible, starting rotation.
A key piece was added to Seattle’s bench, as they came to terms with Donovan Solano, on a one-year deal for $3.5 million.
Solano was a member of the San Diego Padres last year, where he slashed .286/.343/.427, and a had 118 wRC+, in 309 plate appearances. Since 2019, he has a batting average of .298.
The signing of Solano by the Mariners is quite a bargain, for one of the better offensive-oriented utility infielders in baseball.
Jesse Winker - New York Mets: Jesse Winker began ‘24 playing for the Washington Nationals. In 379 plate appearances with the Nats, he posted a slash of .257/.374/.419, and a 126 OPS+.
Looking to make a push towards the playoffs, the New York Mets acquired Winker from Washington, just a couple days prior to the trade deadline.
Although Winker had an OPS+ of 95, after coming over, he redeemed himself during the postseason, as he batted .318, while scoring seven runs, and collecting a pair of triples.
The Mets brought back Winker this offseason by signing him to a one-year, $8 million dollar deal.
Joc Pederson - Texas Rangers: With a lineup already loaded with offensive talent, the Texas Rangers went out and signed Joc Pederson, to be their primary designated hitter, on a two-year contract worth $37 million.Entering his 12th season, Pederson continues to mash right-handed pitching. Last season was no exception, as he boasted a .281/.392/.531 slash line versus RHP.
Among MLB hitters, who compiled at least 400 plate appearances, in ‘24, Pederson’s 151 wRC+ was tied for tenth highest.
Max Kepler - Philadelphia Phillies: After beginning his pro ball journey, with the Minnesota Twins back in 2009, Max Kepler wrapped up his last season with the Twins a year ago.Although Kepler has a 102 wRC+, in his big league career, he’s an outstanding, baserunner and defender in the outfield. Over 10 seasons, his Defensive Runs Saved are at +50.
Kepler put pen to paper this offseason with the Philadelphia Phillies - signing a one-year deal worth $10 million. Phillies President of Baseball Operations, Dave Dombrowski, says Kepler will be the team’s starting left fielder this season.
Michael Lorenzen - Kansas City Royals: One of the biggest surprises of the 2024 MLB season was the stellar, nature of the Kansas City Royals’ rotation, who finished with the second best ERA as a staff.
Led by AL Cy Young runner-up, Seth Lugo, an emerging Cole Ragans, and a solid, Michael Wacha, the Royals also got a strong, contribution from trade deadline acquisition, Michael Lorenzen.
Before the deadline, Lorenzen pitched in 19 games with the Rangers, where he put up an ERA of 3.81. Following the trade, he was even more dominant for KC, posting a 1.57 ERA, in seven outings.
The Royals were able to re-sign Lorenzen, on a one-year, $7 million dollar contract, which is certainly a bargain, for a quality, #4 type starter.
Mike Tauchman - Chicago White Sox: After finishing with the worst record in MLB history last year, it’s nowhere to go but up, for the Chicago White Sox.
The SouthSiders traded Garrett Crochet to the Boston Red Sox at the Winter Meetings, for a significant package of prospects - most of which will be with the big league team at some point in 2025.
In terms of veteran additions, the White Sox signed outfielder Mike Tauchman, to a one-year deal for $1.95 million.
Tauchman is projected to be the leadoff man with the White Sox. Over his last two seasons playing for the Cubs, he’s gotten on base at a .360 mark - thanks in part to an impressive, walk figure of 13.7%.
For the White Sox, to sign an OF, who gets on base consistently at just below $2 million, is an objectively, nice signing.
Trevor Williams - Washington Nationals: Perhaps one of the most surprising pitching performances during the first half of last year came from Washington Nationals hurler Trevor Williams.
In 11 starts, Williams posted a 2.22 ERA, along with a 2.81 FIP, before landing on the injured list, with a flexor tendon muscle strain, in early June. The good news for Williams is that he returned in September, and made two starts - going 10 innings and allowing one earned run.
The Nats decided to bring back Williams into their rotation plans by coming to terms, on a two-year deal worth $14 million. Similar to Michael Lorenzen, Williams is also a useful, fourth starter, or at the very least, a serviceable, #5.
Assessing the Orioles’ Signing of Charlie Morton
p/c: Jim Rassol
The first notable pitcher signing of the new year was made Friday evening, as the Baltimore Orioles announced that Charlie Morton will be inking a one-year deal for $15 million. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand was the first to report the amount.
The big league journey will continue, for the 41-year-old Morton, as there had been speculation about him retiring, following the 2024 season.
Morton performed decently last year by posting a 4.19 ERA, in 30 starts for the Atlanta Braves.
Baltimore is the sixth different team Morton will be pitching for.
Assessment: By and large, Morton has been a #4 starter type, who is going to pitch to a high threes or low fours ERA, while being an innings eating, and keeping his team in the game most of the time.
Although the Morton signing comes across has a pretty good move, it doesn’t really do much for the Orioles, in the bigger picture. The O’s already have plenty of backend starter depth, with the likes of Tyler Rogers, Dean Kremer, Tyler Wells, and Tomoyuki Sugano, who they signed from Japan, on a one-year, $13 million dollar deal a month ago.
It seemed unlikely that Baltimore would be able to re-sign Corbin Burnes, however, given their plentiful, prospect capital, it feels as if they could’ve traded for Garrett Crochet. Instead, Crochet was acquired by their AL East rival Boston Red Sox at the Winter Meetings.
Again, Morton is a fine addition, for the Orioles, but the lack of a true, top-of-the-rotation ace is one of the more confounding developments from a contending team this offseason.
Five Teams Who Could Trade for Spencer Torkelson
p/c: Junfu Han - Detroit Free Press
In the 2020 MLB Draft, the Detroit Tigers chose Arizona State phenom, Spencer Torkelson, with the #1 overall selection.
Aside from a 31 home run campaign, in 2023, Torkelson has struggled to sustain consistency at the Major League level, which has involved demotions to AAA.
It was reported recently that the Tigers had agreed to sign Gleyber Torres as their new second baseman. Tigers GM Jeff Greenberg said that Colt Keith will be moving off second to play first base. Perhaps DH could be an option for Torkelson, but it’s also likely Detroit puts him on the trade block.
Whoever were to acquire Torkelson would be getting him with four years of club control. There are five teams, who I feel could be potential fits.
Chicago White Sox: For a White Sox team that finished with the worst record in MLB history, this destination feels self-explanatory.
The White Sox need as much hitting depth as physically possible, especially in the power department, and it seems like the Tigers would accommodate Torkelson, even if it means dealing him to a division rival.
Los Angeles Angels: Perhaps to a lesser extent than the White Sox, the Los Angeles Angels also need lineup reinforcements, more particularly, first base. Torkelson would definitely be given every chance to be the regular first baseman in Anaheim.
Angels’ management hasn’t been shy, when it comes to taking flyers, on former top prospects, with Mickey Moniak being the most recent example, so Torkelson is an ideal candidate.
Miami Marlins: Following the trades of Jake Burger and Jesus Luzardo this offseason, the Miami Marlins appear to be headed into a rebuild.
In regards to the Burger departure, first base is now a position of need, for the Fish. Torkelson having years of control would give him plenty of opportunity to be a starter in Miami.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Pittsburgh may seem like a curious landing spot, for Torkelson, given that the Pirates acquired Spencer Horwitz from the Cleveland Guardians at the Winter Meetings.
As solid as the numbers are for Horwitz, when facing right-handed pitching, he’s been subpar against lefties. Adding Torkelson to the mix would allow the Bucs to pair up a Spencer duo at first base.
Seattle Mariners: When it comes to the Seattle Mariners’ offseason needs, first base is a main priority.
Seattle was reportedly interested in Carlos Santana, before he signed with the Guardians. Their ability to spend would still make them suitors, in the Pete Alonso sweepstakes.
Recent speculation around the Mariners is Torkelson as a possible trade target. Because Seattle are legit contenders, within the AL West, it’s unclear whether they would feel comfortable about having Torkelson in an every day first base role - unless some sort of platoon is in the works.
What Could an Oneil Cruz Extension Look Like?
p/c: Charles LeClaire - USA Today Sports
Over the past couple years, the Pittsburgh Pirates have tried to identify pieces, to build around moving forward.
The first instance was Ke’Bryan Hayes, who signed an eight-year extension for $70 million, on Opening Day 2022.
Early on in ‘23, the Bucs and Bryan Reynolds agreed to an eight-year deal worth $106 million, which marked the first time in club history that a player signed a contract of least $100 million.
And it was last offseason that Mitch Keller became the biggest money signed pitcher ever by the Pirates, as he inked a five-year deal for a total of $77 million.
Lots of people have speculated about the Pirates locking up Oneil Cruz at some point.
After missing a large majority of the ‘23 season recovering from a torn fibula, Cruz returned to full health this past season. These were the hitting metrics from the 25-year-old slugger.
To say Cruz was a Statcast darling with the bat in 2024 would be a massive understatement.
In terms of average exit velocity, Cruz was among the best in baseball at 95.5 mph. As a matter of fact, he finished with the third highest exit velo behind only Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani; each of whom won the MVP in their respective leagues. To give further perspective, Juan Soto, who’s expected to sign a record-breaking contract this offseason, had an exit velo less than Cruz at 94.2.
As you might expect, the high exit velo directly correlated with Cruz’s ability to smoke the baseball, as he delivered hard hits more than half the time at 54.9%.
As a whole offensively, Cruz was almost a four-win player, posting an oWAR of 3.8, along with a 113 OPS+, in 599 plate appearances. He was also an effective basestealer, swiping 22 bases in 23 attempts, for an outstanding, 95.7% success rate.
In late August, Pirates’ management made the unexpected decision to move Cruz off shortstop and into center field. With -9 Defensive Runs Saved at short, perhaps his 6’7 frame would cause too many moving parts, and having him play center field would possibly maximize his missile of a throwing arm even more.
So hypothetically speaking, what could an extension for Cruz turn out to be?
Cruz is now in the prime of his career at 26. There’s still the potential of a 40/40 type performer, or at least, 30/30. Either type of production would instantly make him a Top 5 center fielder offensively. And if Cruz is able to play good enough defense in center, it’s the profile of a bonafide, All-Star, perhaps even a borderline MVP type.
Realistically, an extension offer to Cruz of seven years at $112 million seems like more than a fair offer from the Pirates’ end, as it would obviously surpass Reynolds’ guaranteed money figure. Should a deal of that length come to fruition this winter, or during spring training, it would go into effect in 2025, while covering all three arbitration years, and three years of free agency. Like many big contracts in MLB, perhaps the Pirates could guarantee most of Cruz’s money on the backend.
Diamondbacks to Sign Corbin Burnes
p/c: John E. Sokolowski
According to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, the Arizona Diamondbacks are signing Corbin Burnes to a six-year deal worth $210 million. Heyman notes that the deal includes an opt-out, after two years.
Burnes entered this offseason as the top right-handed starting pitcher, on the free agent market.
In his lone season pitching for the Baltimore Orioles this year, Burnes posted a 2.92 ERA, along with a 3.55 FIP, and a 3.7 fWAR, in 32 starts. He was an All-Star selection, while finishing fifth, for the AL Cy Young.
Prior to joining the Orioles, Burnes became a three-time All-Star with the Milwaukee Brewers, and was the recipient of the NL Cy Young award during the 2021 season.
The addition of Burnes gives the Dbacks a solid, 1-2 combination, to go alongside Zac Gallen.
Arizona makes their second biggest move, within a week, as they addressed first base by acquiring Josh Naylor from the Cleveland Guardians.
Assessing the Guardians Trade of Josh Naylor and Signing of Carlos Santana
It was a busy Saturday evening, in regards to the Cleveland Guardians, as they made a pair of notable transactions.
Per ESPN’s Jeff Passan, first baseman Josh Naylor has been traded by Cleveland to the Arizona Diamondbacks, in exchange for RHP Slade Cecconi, as well as a 2025 Competitive Balance Round B draft pick. The Guardians wasted no time finding Naylor’s replacement, with the signing of Carlos Santana. The deal, also reported by Passan, is one-year, $12 million.
Naylor’s time in Cleveland draws to a conclusion, as he spent five seasons with the Guardians. The 27-year-old became a first time All-Star, in 2024, putting up career marks in home runs (31), RBI (108), and runs scored (84).
Cecconi was a first round supplemental selection of the Dbacks during the 2020 MLB Draft.
In parts of two seasons with Arizona, Cecconi has posted an ERA of 6.06 over 27 games (17 starts). Long balls are an issue, for Cecconi, allowing them at a 1.7 rate. His control is excellent, registering just 21 walks in 104 innings (1.8 BB/9).
Santana, a fan favorite in Cleveland, will be joining the organization, for a third time. He played the first eight years of his career with them from 2010-2017, and then came back, in the 2019 and 2020 seasons.
This past season, Santana was a member of the Minnesota Twins, and displayed good production overall, with 23 homers, a 114 wRC+, and a bWAR of 2.5, in 150 games. On the defensive side, Santana continued to be steady at first base, posting +14 Outs Above Average and +8 Defensive Runs Saved, while being named a Gold Glove winner, for the first time.
Assessment: Heading into the offseason, many speculated about a Josh Naylor trade. The Diamondbacks were in the market, for a first baseman, this after Christian Walker agreed to sign a three-year, $60 million dollar deal with the Houston Astros on Friday. Arizona addresses an obvious need, who can slot right into the middle of their lineup.
As for the Guardians, they sign Santana at $12 million, which just happened to be the projected amount Naylor would get, in the final year of arbitration.
While you could argue that Naylor’s offense is better, Santana is still a decent contributor at the plate. But more than that, Santana’s defense at first base is far & away more superior than Naylor’s.
In all, the Guardians were able to obtain more pitching depth, and a high draft pick, to help out their system, for a first baseman that has just one year of control remaining. As I eluded to before, they turn around and bring back Santana, who is not only a better all-around first baseman than Naylor, but provides a strong, clubhouse presence.
Five Rookies Who Could Make an Impact In 2025
As the #1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, Paul Skenes burst onto the big league scene this year, and not only won the National League Rookie of the Year award, but finished third in the NL Cy Young voting. Meanwhile, Luis Gil captured the AL Rookie of the Year. It marked the first time that starting pitchers in their respective leagues took home the ROY since 1981 (Fernando Valenzuela and Dave Righetti).
Although Jackson Merrill finished runner-up to Skenes, he played a vital role, in the San Diego Padres’ postseason run.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, there are five rookies, who could make quite a splash.
p/c: Brynn Anderson
Andrew Painter - Philadelphia Phillies: In the 2021 MLB Draft, the Philadelphia Phillies chose Andrew Painter with the 13th overall pick.
Painter definitely has a projectable frame at 6’7, 215 pounds. He throws both his four-seam and two-seam fastballs in the upper-90’s. Painter’s top secondary pitch is a plus slider that sits low-80’s. He also mixes in an upper-70’s curveball, and his changeup is improving.
In July of 2023, Painter underwent Tommy John surgery. This resulted him missing all of the 2024 minor league season. However, he was back to full health, for the Arizona Fall League, where he recorded a 2.30 ERA, in six starts. He was named the AFL Pitcher of the Year.
The Phillies have a terrific, rotation, with Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Ranger Suarez, and Cristopher Sánchez. If Painter can stay healthy, while performing to his potential, then the Phillies will most likely win the NL East again, and Painter would seemingly be the favorite for NL ROY.
Bubba Chandler - Pittsburgh Pirates: When the Pittsburgh Pirates selected Henry Davis first overall in 2021, he signed under slot. The Pirates were able to use the saved money towards a few prep players. One of which was Bubba Chandler.
A two-way player out of high school, Chandler has focused exclusively on pitching, and it’s fair to say he made the right decision.
The fastball for Chandler gets to 98 mph, with plenty of ride up in the zone. He mixes in a sharp slider, while his changeup has become a quality, third offering. All three, when located, can induce plenty of swing & miss.
Chandler began this year with AA Altoona, posting an ERA of 3.70. On August 8th, he was promoted to AAA Indianapolis, and pitched even better, with a 1.83 ERA over seven starts.
Now the Pirates’ top ranked prospect, Chandler should receive a call up to Pittsburgh at some point next season. The upside is there for him to become the #2 starter behind Paul Skenes.
p/c: Paul Sancya
Jackson Jobe - Detroit Tigers: As the third overall pick in 2021, Jackson Jobe got a little test of big league action this past season. He threw two scoreless outings.
During the Detroit Tigers’ unlikely postseason run, Jobe made a pair of relief outings, but allowed three runs in 1.2 innings.
The repertoire is really impressive from Jobe, with a mid-90’s fastball, with plenty of ride and vertical break, an extraordinary, mid-80’s slider, a low-90’s cutter that he added in 2023, and a good changeup, which can be tough on left-handed batters.
Jobe should get a chance to pitch in the Tigers’ rotation, in 2025, which could give them a dynamic, 1-2 punch, alongside reigning AL Cy Young winner, Tarik Skubal.
Jacob Wilson - Sacramento Athletics: After an incredible, collegiate career at Grand Canyon University, Jacob Wilson was chosen sixth overall by the Oakland Athletics, in the 2023 draft.
The son of former big leaguer and defensive wizard, Jack Wilson, the younger Wilson showed off his outstanding, hitting skills, in 2024, across three levels of the minors, slashing a ridiculous, .433/.474/.668 line.
The Athletics called up Wilson on July 19th. In his MLB debut, he collected his first hit off former Los Angeles Angels starter, Griffin Canning. Shortly after, Wilson sustained a left hamstring strain. With 92 big league at-bats, he still qualifies as a rookie next year.
As the Athletics move to Sacramento, Wilson will be their shortstop of the future. It could be a productive 2025 for Wilson, as the A’s could have themselves a fun lineup, with the likes of Brent Rooker, JJ Bleday, Shea Langeliers, and Lawrence Butler.
Sutter Health Park in Sacramento is hitter-friendly, so it could allow Wilson, to add more offense. On the defensive side, Wilson has average range, but makes up for it, possessing steady hands, along with a strong arm.
p/c: Danielle Parhizkaran
Roman Anthony - Boston Red Sox: Selected 79th overall by the Boston Red Sox in 2022, Roman Anthony has quickly ascended thru their farm system.
In his pro debut in ‘22, Anthony hit .306, but slugged only .361.
The power production increased for Anthony during the 2023 season, as he posted a slugging percentage of .466 combined with Low A Salem, High A Greenville, and AA Portland.
Anthony returned to Portland at the beginning of this year. The solid approach continued, for the 20-year-old, slashing .269/.367/.489.
It was on August 12th that Anthony was given a promotion to AAA Worcester. Despite playing at a level much older than his age, Anthony somehow performed greatly, as put up a slash of .344/.463/.519. The approach at the plate was fantastic, as drew walks at an excellent, 18.9%.
Anthony will enter 2025 as the third best prospect in the minors, according to MLB Pipeline.
Even if Anthony doesn’t crack the Red Sox Opening Day roster, he should get a shot in the bigs early in the season. Most baseball publications project him as a strong, AL ROY candidate, in ‘25. For Anthony to be Boston’s top prospect currently is saying a lot, when you consider how stacked their outfield prospect depth is.
Evaluating the White Sox Return for Garrett Crochet
p/c: Paul Rutherford
The Chicago White Sox ended the 2024 season finishing with the worst record, in the 162-game era at 41-121.
The only silver lining - and I mean ONLY silver lining this year for the White Sox - was Garrett Crochet.
In his first season as a full-time starter, Crochet posted a 3.58 ERA, a much better FIP of 2.69, and a 4.1 fWAR, in 32 starts.
When it comes to offseason trade candidates, Crochet was probably the worst kept secret, as practically everyone in the baseball industry knew that the White Sox would look to sell high, on their All-Star ace.
During the final day of the Winter Meetings, the Boston Red Sox acquired Crochet. In return, the White Sox received catcher Kyle Teel, outfielder Braden Montgomery, infielder Chase Meidroth, and pitcher Wikelman Gonzalez.
p/c: Maddie Malhotra
As a first round selection by the Red Sox in 2023, Teel is one of the best catching prospects in the minors, with most considering him second best behind only Ethan Salas of the San Diego Padres.
The 2024 season for Teel was spent playing with AA Portland and AAA Worcester. He combined to slash .288/.386/.433. Teel has good speed for a backstop, as he stole 12 bases.
Aside from the strong, offensive output, Teel is already improving as a receiver and pitch framer behind the plate.
Montgomery was a first round selection of the Red Sox in this year’s draft.
At 6’2, 220 pounds, Montgomery is a switch-hitting outfielder, who has plus power from both sides of the plate, although he makes more consistent contact from the left side. He continues to improve his overall plate discipline.
Montgomery has a cannon for a throwing arm, so he should no doubt stick in right field. The range can be described as average.
p/c: Tayla Bolduc
Chase Meidroth became a fourth round draft pick by Boston in 2022.
While Meidroth may not have many exciting tools, the one thing he does extremely well is get on base.
This past season with Worcester, Meidroth put up the best OBP in the International League at .437.
Throughout his minor league career, the approach at the plate from Meidroth is outstanding, as he’s drawn more walks (199) than strikeouts (180).
Defensively, Meidroth seems best suited to play second base, due to his fringy arm.
Wikelman Gonzalez signed with the Red Sox in 2018 as an amateur pitcher out of Venezuela, for a quarter of a million dollars.
The 2024 season was a mixed bag for Gonzalez. In 83.2 innings, he had a 4.73 ERA, even though he held opponents to a .198 batting average against. Gonzalez struck out 92 batters (9.9 K/9), but allowed 46 free passes (4.9 BB/9).
The fastball for Gonzalez can reach 97 mph. His secondary offerings include a mid-80’s slider, a mid-80’s changeup, and a curveball that sits in the upper-70’s. However, he struggles to find consistent command.
Assessment: The Red Sox were certainly in the market, for a top-of-the-rotation starter, and went the trade route by acquiring Crochet. By moving exclusively prospects, they get to keep first baseman Triston Casas. Reports had surfaced that Boston was open to trading Casas, so there was lots of speculation that he could be involved, in a Crochet deal.
For White Sox GM Chris Getz, it’s a terrific, package to obtain, for Crochet, who has two years of team control. Kyle Teel is an elite catching prospect that should join the White Sox at some point in 2025, Braden Montgomery potentially could be an All-Star caliber outfielder, Chase Meidroth provides an excellent, on base skill set, with the chance of becoming the everyday second baseman, and Wikelman Gonzalez has the stuff to be a high upside starter, if he can find the strike zone enough. Worst case scenario is a late-inning reliever.
Most Underrated Player for Each MLB Team
In this piece, I examine the most underrated players, for all 30 MLB clubs.Arizona Diamondbacks - Gabriel Moreno: Since being acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays, in December of 2022, Gabriel Moreno has been the Dbacks starting catcher.
In his first season with Arizona in 2023, Moreno captured a Gold Glove, while accumulating a 4.3 WAR. This year, he was two-win player at 2.6.
Atlanta Braves - Aaron Bummer: For seven seasons, Aaron Bummer was a fixture in the Chicago White Sox bullpen, where he posted a 3.84 ERA.
Last offseason, the White Sox dealt Bummer to the Braves. The 31-year-old southpaw performed well in Atlanta, with an ERA of 3.58. He struck out 69 batters in 55.1 innings, and allowed just two homers.
Baltimore Orioles - Ramón Urías: Over the last five seasons, Ramón Urías has become a useful, piece, when it comes to the Baltimore Orioles’ infield depth.
Urías has registered a career 108 OPS+. In 2022, he was the recipient of the AL Gold Glove for third basemen.
Boston Red Sox - Zack Kelly: There’s a reliever, for the Boston Red Sox, who happens to share a first and last name, with a popular Saved By the Bell couple.
Zack Kelly has spent parts of three seasons pitching in Boston’s bullpen, but 2024 was his first extensive work, as he put up a 3.97 ERA over 49 games.
Chicago Cubs - Nico Hoerner: Despite having a 4.2 WAR in 2022 and a 5.1 WAR in 2023, Nico Hoerner somehow remains an underrated infielder.
During his six years with the Cubs, Hoerner has literally been a league average player offensively, with an OPS+ of 100. However, the glove is Hoerner’s meal ticket, as he’s compiled +26 Defensive Runs Saved at second base. He won the NL Gold Glove for second basemen in ‘23.
Chicago White Sox - Andrew Vaughan: While Luis Robert is undoubtedly the best player, on the Chicago White Sox, an underrated cog in their lineup is Andrew Vaughan.
Vaughan has averaged 18 home runs, in four seasons on the South Side of Chicago. He does better work against lefty pitching, with a .771 OPS.
Cincinnati Reds - Spencer Steer: 2023 was Spencer Steer’s first full season in Cincinnati, and it was a productive one, posting an OPS of .820, while being a three-win player on offense (3.5 WAR).
This season, Steer managed to become a 20/20 guy, with 20 homers and 25 stolen bases.
Cleveland Guardians - Tim Herrin: During his rookie year in 2023, Tim Herrin struggled as a rookie reliever, as he recorded a 5.53 ERA.
The 6’6 southpaw completely flipped the switch this year. Herrin was a workhorse, in a Cleveland Guardians’ pen that was the best in baseball. He made 75 appearances, putting up a stellar, 1.92 ERA, a WHIP of 0.92, and had a .173 batting average against.
Colorado Rockies - Ezequiel Tovar: Ezequiel Tovar took over as the Colorado Rockies starting shortstop in 2023, and has not looked back.
Tovar’s ‘23 campaign resulted in a 2.5 WAR; thanks mainly to superb, defensive metrics, as he recorded a +13 DRS.
This year, Tovar made strides offensively, with a .763 OPS, along with an NL best 45 doubles. His +10 DRS was enough to make him the first Rockies shortstop to capture a Gold Glove since Troy Tulowitzki in 2011.
While playing on a bad Rockies team plays a part, Tovar is quietly turning into a solid, all-around shortstop.
Detroit Tigers - Kerry Carpenter: Despite dealing with a back injury this year, Kerry Carpenter put up his best offensive season to date. In 296 plate appearances, he slashed .284/.345/.587.
Carpenter certainly helped propel the Tigers to an improbable postseason run. During the ALDS against Cleveland, he had an OPS of .896. In Game 2 of that series, Carpenter delivered a ninth inning, go-ahead, three-run homer off arguably the best closer in MLB, Emmanuel Clase.
Houston Astros - Yainer Diaz: Entering the 2025 season, perhaps there’s not a more underrated offensive hitting catcher in the game than Houston Astros backstop Yainer Díaz.
Since 2023, Diaz is slugging .490, which is the highest mark among MLB catchers in that span. This past season, he accumulated a 3.5 oWAR.
Kansas City Royals - Freddy Fermin: While Yainer Diaz is an underrated offensive catcher, the most underrated from a defensive standpoint might just be Freddy Fermin of the Kansas City Royals.
As a backup in 2023, Fermin registered a DRS of +8, along with a 31.4% caught stealing.
The defense somehow was even better, for Fermin this year, as he had a +16 DRS, and his 44.7% caught stealing rate was tops in the AL.
Los Angeles Angels - Luis Rengifo: Over the past six seasons Luis Rengifo has been a member of the Los Angeles Angels.
The switch-hitting infielder is become a better hitter at the plate since 2022, posting a .757 OPS, with the Halos. In 2024, Rengifo hit .300, in 283 at-bats.
Los Angeles Dodgers - Miguel Rojas: Over the past decade, there hasn’t been a more unheralded defensive infielder in the big leagues than Miguel Rojas.
As a 35-year-old this past season, Rojas had a career best 3.4 WAR. He played mostly shortstop - filling in for an injured Mookie Betts.
This offseason, the Dodgers picked up Rojas’ $5 million dollar club option for next year.
Miami Marlins - Otto Lopez: One of the more underrated moves made by the Miami Marlins this year was picking up infielder Otto Lopez off waivers from the San Francisco Giants.
As the Marlins primary second baseman in 2024, Lopez was sneaky good, compiling a WAR of 2.6. He stole 20 bases in 24 attempts (83.3% success rate).
On the defensive side, Lopez recorded a +9 DRS - fifth best among MLB 2B.
Milwaukee Brewers - Bryan Hudson: In 2023, Bryan Hudson pitched for the Dodgers as a rookie. It didn’t go well, posting a 7.27 ERA, in six games.
Looking to add bullpen depth, the Brewers acquired Hudson from the Dodgers entering this year.
Hudson was given a chance by Milwaukee, and took full advantage. The 6’8 lefty made 43 appearances out of the Brewers’ bullpen, in which he had an ERA of 1.73, and limiting baserunners to a 0.72 WHIP.
Minnesota Twins - Griffin Jax: As a rookie with the Minnesota Twins in 2021, Griffin Jax struggled as a starter, to the tune of a 6.37 ERA.
Since then, Jax has been terrific, in a relief role. 2024 was a career year for him, as he posted a 2.03 ERA, a 1.94 FIP, and striking out 95 batters in 71 innings of work (12.0 K/9).
There’s been internal discussions among the Twins this offseason about moving Jax back into the rotation.
New York Mets - Mark Vientos: The New York Mets appeared to have found their third baseman moving forward, in the form of Mark Vientos.
Vientos had a breakout season for the Mets this year, as he put up an OPS of .837, 27 home runs, and was a three-win performer (3.1 WAR), in 111 games.
During the postseason, Vientos elevated his offensive game to an even bigger level, posting an OPS around 1.000 at .998, while hitting five homers.
New York Yankees - Clarke Schmidt: For parts of five seasons with the Yankees, Clarke Schmidt has a 3.95 ERA.
Although Schmidt dealt with a lat muscle strain this season, he managed to post a 2.85 ERA over 16 starts.
While it might sound odd, for a former first rounder to be underrated, Schmidt does find himself in a rotation consisting of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortes, and Luis Gil, who’s the reigning AL Rookie of the Year.
Philadelphia Phillies - Brandon Marsh: After getting traded from the Los Angeles Angels to the Philadelphia Phillies, in 2022, Brandon Marsh has become a fixture, within the Phillies’ outfield.
Marsh has been a three-win player, in each of the last two seasons, registering a 3.4 WAR in 2023 and 3.1 WAR in 2024.
Pittsburgh Pirates - Carmen Mlodzinski: The Pittsburgh Pirates had a supplemental pick, in the 2020 MLB Draft, and chose Carmen Mlodzinski out of South Carolina.
Having pitched mainly as a starter in the minors, the Pirates decided to transition Mlodzinski into a full-time reliever.
The move has definitely paid dividends, with Mlodzinski putting up an ERA of 2.91, along with a .616 OPS against, in two seasons pitching in the Pirates’ pen.
Sacramento Athletics - Lawrence Butler: 2023 was a struggle for Lawrence Butler, as a rookie with the Oakland Athletics, as he posted a .582 OPS.
The first half of 2024 wasn’t going well again for Butler, with a slash line of .211/.280/.406. But then, he went on a complete tear, in the second half, slashing .300/.345/.553. Butler hit 22 homers, stole 18 bases, and registered a 3.0 WAR.
San Diego Padres - Jake Cronenworth: In a San Diego Padres’ lineup loaded with talent, it’s easy to see why Jake Cronenworth would still be viewed as an under the radar bat, despite being an NL Rookie of the Year runner-up in 2020, as well as a two-time All-Star.
During his five seasons in San Diego, Cronenworth has a .740 OPS, while collecting a 13.3 WAR.
San Francisco Giants - LaMonte Wade Jr: After being acquired by the San Francisco Giants from the Minnesota Twins, prior to the 2021 season, LaMonte Wade Jr. has been a vital piece, in the Giants’ lineup.
Wade has posted a .767 OPS, as a member of the Giants.
Seattle Mariners - Bryan Woo: With a last name that Ric Flair would be proud of, Bryan Woo debuted for the Seattle Mariners, in 2023, and was decent all told, with a 4.21 ERA.
This past season, Woo pitched even better, as he posted an ERA of 2.89 and a 0.90 WHIP over 22 starts.
A Mariners’ rotation that has Luis Castillo, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryce Miller in it, Woo falls in the underrated category. I also think he’s become the best #5 starter in baseball right now.
St. Louis Cardinals - Lars Nootbaar: When it comes to homegrown position players, the St. Louis Cardinals seem to produce guys, who can contribute in the big leagues - more often than not. Lars Nootbaar is no exception.
Taken by the Cardinals, in the eighth round of the 2018 draft, Nootbaar has been a consistent bat, within St. Louis’ lineup, as he’s recorded a .774 OPS during his four years with the Cardinals.
Tampa Bay Rays - Zack Littell: In regards to Zack Littell, he’s certainly been a byproduct of the Tampa Bay Rays’ pitching factory.
Since arriving to the Rays, Littell has been a reliable, depth option. During the 2023 season, he had a 3.93 ERA, in 26 games; 14 of which were starts.
This year, Tampa Bay’s rotation was decimated by injuries, and Littell filled in as a full-time starter. He made 29 starts and posted an ERA of 3.63.
Texas Rangers - Josh Smith: Around the 2021 trade deadline, Josh Smith was a prospect the New York Yankees moved to the Texas Rangers, as part of the Joey Gallo deal.
Smith has served in a bench role, for the Rangers, and 2024 was a breakout year. He put up a 3.2 oWAR, while filling in for the injured Josh Jung, as well being the backup shortstop to Corey Seager.
For his efforts, Smith was named this year’s AL Silver Slugger winner among utility players.
Toronto Blue Jays - Bowden Francis: When the Toronto Blue Jays traded Rowdy Tellez to the Milwaukee Brewers, in July of 2021, Bowden Francis was one of the players acquired by Toronto.
Francis did outstanding work as a reliever with the Jays, in 2023, as he recorded a 1.73 ERA over 20 appearances.
In early August, Francis was inserted into Toronto’s rotation, and performed extremely well, with an ERA of 1.53, in nine starts.
Washington Nationals - Luis García Jr: The Washington Nationals are going with a youth movement heading into 2025, with the likes of James Wood and Dylan Crews.
Luis García Jr. has been with the Nats since 2020, but is still just 24. He’s also coming off his best season this year, putting up career-highs in average (.282), OPS (.762), and WAR (2.2). Garcia will be Washington’s second baseman to open 2025.
Patience Is a Virtue for Dave Parker
Former Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Joe L. Brown certainly had an eye for baseball talent. Perhaps his most diamond in the rough discovery was Dave Parker, who he selected, in the 14th round of the 1970 MLB Draft.
Affectionately nicknamed “The Cobra”, Parker accomplished great things, while with the Pirates, including four All-Star selections, three Gold Gloves, two batting titles, and the recipient of the 1978 National League MVP.
Following the 1983 season, the Cincinnati Reds would sign Parker to a five-year deal. In four seasons with the Reds, he was a two-time All-Star.
10 years after winning his first World Series championship with the Pirates, Parker was a member of the 1989 Oakland Athletics’ World Series team.
In 1990, the Milwaukee Brewers signed Parker as their designated hitter. He would be an All-Star for a seventh and final time.
Parker would retire, following the 1991 season. The lefty-hitting slugger compiled 2,712 hits, 526 doubles, 339 home runs, 1,493 RBI, and a 121 OPS+.
Despite a great career, Parker was not able to obtain the 75% voting threshold necessary for induction during his 15 years on the ballot.
While some would argue Parker’s numbers being borderline, others would say that his involvement in the mid-80’s Pittsburgh drug trials was a main reason, for him not getting in.
On Sunday night at the Winter Meetings in Dallas, it was announced that Parker, along with the late Dick Allen, would be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Classic Baseball Era Committee.
Parker’s induction makes him the 13th Pittsburgh Pirates player to become a Hall of Famer.
It’s been a long time coming, for the 73-year-old Parker, who is dealing with Parkinson’s Disease. Although it’s been heartbreaking seeing Parker in his current state, it’ll at least be an opportunity for him to experience his rightful spot in Cooperstown.
Improbable to Incredible: The Mason Miller Journey
p/c: Ezra Shaw
Growing up in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania- a suburb of Pittsburgh - Mason Miller had aspirations of becoming a Major League pitcher. His road to get there, however, was far from easy.
While pitching for Waynesburg University, Miller was only throwing in the low-90’s with his fastball, and would routinely get fatigued, not just on the mound, but off the field as well.
During his sophomore year, Miller was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. From there, he got the treatment needed, and really built up his arm strength.
Miller would then attend Gardner-Webb University as a graduate transfer.
In the 2021 MLB Draft, the Oakland Athletics made Miller a third round selection.
It was in 2022 that Miller got the chance to represent the Athletics in the Arizona Fall League. He held his own against fellow prospects, as he put up a 3.24 ERA in six starts, for the Mesa Solar Sox.
Miller’s hard work and determination paid off, as he received his call up to the show. On April 19th, 2023, Miller would make his big league debut versus the Chicago Cubs.
Although Miller dealt with a minor sprain of his UCL, he performed well, in 33.1 innings of work, posting an ERA of 3.78.
Entering the 2024 season, A’s manager Mark Kotsay announced that Miller would transition into a relief role, as the team’s closer. The flamethrowing righty ran with the opportunity, as he registered a 2.49 ERA, along with a 2.18 FIP, a 0.88 WHIP, 28 saves, and a phenomenal, 14.4 K/9 (104 K in 65 IP).
Miller’s efforts were certainly enough to earn him a spot, on the American League All-Star roster.
It was on September 26th that Miller would record the final out ever at the Oakland Coliseum, in a 3-2 win over the Texas Rangers.
Following the season, Miller would place fourth in the AL Rookie of the Year voting - the highest finish by an Athletics pitcher since Andrew Bailey won the award in 2009.
From a kid struggling at the college ranks in Western Pennsylvania, to now emerging as an elite closer in MLB, Mason Miller’s journey is one of the most incredible, perseverance stories in sports today.