
Kris Bryant, who last played for the San Francisco Giants, is now a free agent.
After struggling for a couple of years with injuries, he got back on track and hit .265/.353/.481 with 25 home runs, 86 runs, 73 RBI, and 10 stolen bases in 2021 between the Giants and the Chicago Cubs.
At 29, he still has some good years ahead of him, but where will he end up?
It’s hard to say, as the Giants could very well re-sign him, but other clubs appear to be more interested.
These three teams could be perfect fits for Bryant.
3. New York Mets
J.D. Davis, appointed as the starter at third base before the start of the 2021 season, didn’t perform badly at the plate, with a 285/.384/.436 line.
But there were two problems: one, he missed most of the season with finger/hand issue; and two, his defense was, as expected, very lousy.
That prompted the Mets to play Jonathan Villar at third at one point, and he is now a free agent.
Jeff McNeil can play some third base, but it’s not his best position.
What does this all mean?
That the Mets will surely look for an upgrade at third base.
The team is reportedly willing to spend a lot of money this offseason, which means they will be players for Bryant.
Bryant has been a target of the Mets for a while, and now that he is available just for money, he has a realistic chance of ending up in Flushing.
The Mets big off-season acquisition will be Kris Bryant
— Evan Roberts (@EvanRobertsWFAN) November 11, 2021
He could provide another offensive weapon to a good lineup and some defensive stability at third.
2. Toronto Blue Jays
The Toronto Blue Jays have a formidable lineup, with the likes of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., George Springer, Bo Bichette, Randal Grichuk, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Teoscar Hernandez, and more.
Cavan Biggio is expected to occupy third base, but the unproven Santiago Espinal is currently penciled to handle the hot corner.
There was nothing wrong with Espinal’s 2021 season, as he hit .311/.376/.405.
But he only hit two home runs in 246 plate appearances, and that’s more associated to a utility infielder rather than a starting third baseman.
In conclusion, the Blue Jays can surely use an upgrade at the hot corner.
Granted, they would probably prefer to bring in an elite arm for the rotation.
But if they wanted to, they could make a big play for Bryant, a former MVP and a proven postseason performer.
Bryant can also handle all corners adequately: third and first base, right field, and left field.
He is a very valuable commodity, and his hypothetical presence in the Jays’ lineup would make it the best in baseball.
1. Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners showed in 2021 that they are serious about contending.
They fell short this year despite finishing 90-72, but more is expected from them next season.
To meet expectations, they need to bring in several reinforcements on offense.
An already mediocre group now suffered the loss of Kyle Seager and his 35 home runs, and someone will need to pick up the slack.
Who better than Bryant, who has the perfect blend of experience, age, current talent, and offensive and defensive worth?
@Mariners Offseason Wish List
Come on Santa, don't let me down
Kris Bryant
Marcus Semien
Nelson Cruz pic.twitter.com/feFkKNtqDA— Russell Hartness (@RussellHartness) November 9, 2021
Seattle also needs stars who can occupy leadership roles in the clubhouse, and Bryant is a well-respected figure who can do that to perfection.
Bryant to Seattle is perfect idea for every party involved.
If it’s Baez or Bryant I want Baez!
If the bidding stays below $175M, SF will be in it (to win it)