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As the frost begins to settle on the baseball diamonds across the nation, MLB followers are already turning their attention to the hot stove of the offseason. Our beloved sport never truly takes a break, and the free-agent market, teeming with the likes of Shohei Ohtani, promises to keep us on the edge of our seats.
But let’s not forget about the intrigue and potential game-changing power of the trade market! From seasoned veterans seeking a fresh start to promising rookies on the cusp of their breakout seasons, the trade market can be a treasure trove of potential.
In this article, we’re taking a fun, family-friendly dive into the exciting world of MLB trade predictions. So, grab your favorite team’s cap, sit back, and let’s embark on this journey into the upcoming off-season!
Arizona Diamondbacks: OF Jake McCarthy
Jake McCarthy, outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks, had a shining moment in the 2022 season, showcasing a promising performance with a batting average of .283/.342/.427, 27 extra-base hits, and 23 steals in 99 games. His performance was so impressive he snagged the fourth spot in the NL Rookie of the Year balloting. Yet, the 26-year-old had a quieter year in 2023, with an OPS+ of 77 and 0.4 WAR in 99 games. He also made two separate trips to Triple-A.
Despite the potential departure of Lourdes Gurriel Jr. in free agency, the D-backs’ outfield is far from depleted. They have talents such as Alek Thomas, Corbin Carroll, Pavin Smith, and Dominic Fletcher ready to step up. With club control through 2028 and one remaining minor league option, McCarthy remains an appealing buy-low target. This upcoming season could very well be his chance to rebound and return to his 2022 form.
Atlanta Braves: RHP Michael Soroka
Once a shining star on the cusp of a long-term gig with the Atlanta Braves, right-handed pitcher Michael Soroka has had a challenging journey in the MLB. Bursting onto the scene in 2019 with an impressive 13-4 record, a 2.68 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 142 strikeouts in 174.2 innings, he seemed primed for greatness. Sadly, a series of injuries in the following seasons limited his appearances to a mere three starts. His return in 2023 was marked with difficulties, recording a 6.40 ERA in 32.1 innings and spending a significant part of the season at Triple-A.
With no minor league options left and facing a projected $3 million salary in his final year of arbitration eligibility, Michael Soroka finds his future with the Braves uncertain. As the team might consider non-tendering him, he could be on the trading block this offseason.
Despite the setbacks, Soroka’s potential and previous performance might make him an attractive option for teams looking for a quality arm that could bounce back. So, let’s stay tuned, folks! This offseason might bring a new chapter for this talented pitcher.
Baltimore Orioles: OF Anthony Santander
Anthony Santander, the 29-year-old outfielder for the Baltimore Orioles, is a name to watch this offseason. With a rewardingly robust 2023 season under his belt, Santander packed an impressive punch with 121 OPS+, 41 doubles, 28 home runs, and 95 RBIs. His potential departure could stir up the market currently short on impactful middle-of-the-order bats. For his final year of arbitration, Santander is looking at a projected salary of $12.7 million, positioning him as the highest-paid player on the Orioles’ current roster.
This makes him a prime trade candidate, particularly with the Orioles’ outfield bursting with budding talents, including Cedric Mullins, Austin Hays, Colton Cowser, and Heston Kjerstad. While it’s too early to predict where Santander could land, one thing is certain: the Orioles have a wealth of options, and the offseason trade market just got a whole lot more interesting! Stay tuned as we track the trajectory of this talented outfielder.
Conclusion
As the temperatures drop and the fields lay bare, the MLB offseason becomes a hotbed of potential movement and thrilling speculation. While the free-agent market will always hold its allure, the trade radar lights up with possibilities, each capable of shifting the dynamics of the coming season. Our exploration through potential candidates for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, and Baltimore Orioles offers a glimpse into the myriad of possibilities that lie ahead.
However, remember, these are just projections, and the real fun lies in the unpredictability of it all! Keep an eye on those FanDuel MLB odds, stay informed, and most importantly, enjoy the offseason ride. Baseball, in all its forms, continues to captivate us at every twist and turn, making the wait for the next season all the more anticipation-filled and exciting.
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