With the MLB lockout over and free agency back in full swing, things have gotten interesting again.
Thus far, we haven’t seen free agents signing with teams at a rapid rate, like many predicted, but things are still moving along and there’s certainly time for a free agent frenzy to take place.
With the universal DH being added in the new CBA, plenty of players who have played in the American League and have been designated hitters now have some more options available..
Nelson Cruz took advantage of that, signing a one-year, $15 million deal with the Washington Nationals.
The deal includes a mutual option for 2023.
Source: Nelson Cruz and the #Nationals have agreed to a one-year, $15 million deal, a source told ESPN Digital. @TenchyRodNYC was the first.
The contract includes a mutual option. Cruz will earn $12 in 2022 and will receive another $3M if the club does not exercise option. https://t.co/K9O5nVAfp8— Enrique Rojas/ESPN (@Enrique_Rojas1) March 14, 2022
New Opportunities
The addition of the universal DH is a major step forward for baseball.
Now, players who are aging in the National League have an option to extend their careers and have a chance to do that with all 30 MLB teams.
Fans are ready to not have to watch pitchers hit too, so offense from all nine spots of the lineup is something that could draw fans back to the game
Cruz is a huge addition for the Nationals too.
While Washington wasn’t expected to do much this season after having traded away Trea Turner last year, having Cruz in their lineup certainly helps, especially considering that their lineup already features Juan Soto, Josh Bell, and Victor Robles.
Those are four strong offensive pieces that could potentially help the Nationals stay somewhat relevant.
Not only is the universal DH a huge plus for baseball, but it’s a big advantage for any NL team.
An extra power bat in the lineup can give these teams a huge boost offensively.
This is likely just the start of the flurry of moves we’ve all been expecting since the lockout ended.
NEXT: Juan Soto Is Not Letting The Lockout Slow Him Down