How Should Sabean Address Third Base and Left Field?

Thursday, the 2014 Baseball Winter Meetings ended in high fashion and teams throwing in deals last minute. Every year, the meetings witness overspending and clubs acquiring a lot of pieces. When attending the Winter Meetings, it almost feels out of obligation you must make a move. That wasn't the case for the Baltimore Orioles, Kansas City Royals, and the defending World Champion, San Francisco Giants. Brian Sabean engaged in conversations, went all-in for Jon Lester, but Sabean could have stayed back home in the Bay Area. Needless to say, Sabean looked like a failure. I wouldn't consider this a failure, but I would consider this all talk, and no action. Giants have three gaping holes that need patching for 2015 and beyond if they want to win more World Series. Pablo Sandoval left the Bay Area for Boston, Michael Morse looks to be on his way to another team, and Ryan Vogelsong and Jake Peavy find themselves still looking to be signed. With a starting pitcher, third base, and left field open, did Brian Sabean see anything he liked? Generally, at the meetings, it is to gather and discuss who's available and create trade scenarios. While some are ramblings at the time, there's a good chance at the meeting or weeks after, teams might put it into gear and make the deal possible. While we are not in the room, or on the floor for discussions, do we know if Brian Sabean got himself some creative ideas to make this club even better for the 2015 season? When a team is quiet, it sends mixed messages to a ball club and its fans. There's plenty of offseason left and players who are available currently, and who could be made available here in the coming weeks. The definition of "patience" should be changed in Webster's Dictionary to Brian Sabean, and patience is something Giants fans need to follow. Whether it is the offseason or near the trade deadline, Giants fans tend to get over ambitious and feel a move for a player outside the organization is the route to go. Brian is excellent when to pull the trigger on a move or when to look in-house. In 2010, Buster Posey was close to being ready in the minors and the Giants gambled on bringing him up. Buster turned out to be NL Rookie of the Year and a vital part to San Francisco's first World Series title. In 2014, Giants were stuck on how they wanted to approach their season, hoping to make the playoffs after a series of injuries and misfortunes. Sabean neglected the market and called up Joe Panik from Triple A - Fresno, who looked like a seasoned vet like Buster Posey in 2010. While it is easy to get excited for the big move, Sabean is precise on who he targets and what prospects fit best to be on the major league ball club. Although, he is not afraid to make big deals and sacrifice prospects such as the acquisition of Carlos Beltran in 2011, Hunter Pence and Marco Scutaro in 2012. It is a dream to land the big move and create the buzz headlines across the baseball media, but the ball is Brian Sabean's glove and he will decide when he wants to go for it or if he wants to pull back. With the 2015 roster getting up there in age, and with more free agents-to-be next offseason, Sabean may be brewing something in the front office to replenish the roster. While prospects might be crucial at this point, and an improving rival in the Dodgers, the Giants might have to pursue a move with players they are not willing to give up. This leaves the question to be answered: Who should the Giants pursue within the remaining free agent pool, and trade market? Here are three moves to consider:

Trade for Jay Bruce - This move needs to be pressed hard. I have been high on Jay Bruce as an option all offseason for the Giants after an atrocious and under-performed 2014 season for the Cincinnati Reds. With an inflated payroll, injuries to key players, and a new coach, the Reds need a fresh start, and during the Winter Meetings it may of indicated this is the start of a rebuilding period for the Reds (trading away Mat Latos and Alfredo Simon). Jay Bruce had one of the worst seasons of his career in 2014, after dealing with a knee injury and battling inconsistencies at the plate. Bruce is a big-time player for the Reds (not named Joey Votto), who's value is down a little after the poor season. While Walt Jocketty has claimed the Reds are not interested in a rebuild, it clearly looks like it is time for a rebuild. Even though you may not want to have a rebuild, the Reds are in desperation to get back to the team they were for the last five years. The only way to get better is trade off players to bring down the payroll and bring in young players. While Jay Bruce is a right fielder, the San Francisco Giants could use another big stick and excellent defender in the outfield and not have to use a platoon to receive that (eliminates Morse and Ishikawa). It worked in 2014, but I don't feel it is smart for the long term plan. Giants have not had an every day big bat outfielder since Barry Bonds. Pence has mastered the right field position and knowing how to play with the right field wall. Jay Bruce could learn, but his athleticism could shift him to left field. Bruce is the ideal Giant that Bruce Bochy needs. Bruce can pop out 22-30 home runs a season, a gap hitter, gets walked, and is a smart base runner. Pablo Sandoval's bat needs replaced in the middle of the lineup and Jay Bruce would be a great fit for the current mold of the team. I am not sure what the Reds would want in return in regards to prospects and major leaguers, but offering Kyle Crick, Juan Perez, and potentially Matt Duffy (odd man out due to Panik) could be enough. Duffy could replace the disappointing Zack Cozart, who could essentially be included in the deal for depth off the bench for the Giants.

Sign Asdrubal Cabrera - After a breakout season in 2011 with the Cleveland Indians, Asdrubal Cabrera has found himself in a small decline. Indians needed offense and Cabrera was all they had at one point. As Michael Brantley, Jason Kipnis, and Carlos Santana came along, Cabrera was no longer in the run supporter role. Cabrera has batted all over the lineup throughout his career and has found himself batting in the bottom half now. Cabrera is still in his prime and his decline should not be concerning. Cabrera;s mitt and defense is Gold Glove material every year, and still has some pop in his bat (14 home runs in '14). While second base and shortstop are his primary positions, the Giants could take a look at him at the hot corner. His defense would certainly be an upgrade from Pablo Sandoval, but he needs to get his hitting going again. The vast AT&T Park may help out his numbers, as he is a great gap hitter and his extra base totals would inflate. Cabrera most likely would want to play second base since it is a natural position for him, but the Giants future, Joe Panik, is currently in the way and the organization doesn't plan on shifting him to third base anytime soon. If Cabrera wants to be a Giant, he will have to make the switch. In the end, I could see a switch to third base. Cabrera would be able to bat sixth or seventh in the lineup or even second on occasion. The third base market is dry now, and to get a Evan Longoria would require a lot of players in return. Cabrera can make the switch, and it would be a safe and good move. 3 Yrs./$30 Million

Trade for Trevor Plouffe - Trevor Plouffe had a breakout year despite the low batting average in 2014. Plouffe collected 40 doubles, 14 home runs, and 80 RBI's. With Miguel Sano up on deck and looking to start this season in Minnesota, Plouffe may be on his way out. The only weaknesses Plouffe brings is he streaky as a hitter and provides average defense. While Pablo Sandoval wasn't always the greatest defender, he still found ways to make big defensive stops and was one of the best defending third baseman in the National League in 2014. Plouffe did drive in more runs than Sandoval in 2014 and had a better OPS. Essentially, could say Plouffe had a better season than Sandoval, subtracting the playoffs from this analysis. The Twins would be giving up Plouffe for possibly one or two prospects. Giants could offer Adam Duvall and Ricky Oropesa and not lose any big leaguers. Plouffe would be a nice addition to that offense and allows the Giants to save money towards pitching.

Giants Miss Out On Lester: What Is Next?

San Francisco Giants, the defending World Champs, went into the offseason with a mission to fill the position vacancies and then some. Pablo Sandoval was priority number one, and failed to come back to San Francisco. The Giants then turned their focus to what they do best: their pitching. On the market, there is Max Scherzer, Jon Lester, James Shields, Francisco Liriano, and others. Giants did the unthinkable and went all out on Jon Lester. Giants hung in the discussion until the decision was made, when Lester announced a 6 year/$155 million dollar deal with the Chicago Cubs. Giants did what they could and were going to be the only team who offered 7 years and the highest guaranteed money. Giants were not bluffing in their attempt to sign Lester, who they had a very good chance of signing. Ultimately, Lester appreciated what the Giants had to offer and was impressed, but Lester's heart didn't have room to include the Giants. Lester still has a spot for Theo Epstein, who left Boston years ago to join the front office for the Chicago Cubs. Jon decided to reconnect and go with comfort over choosing the money. The offseason is far from over for the Giants, who can definitely step back into the race for other free agents still on the market, or look to make some trades. Giants still have holes to fill as third base, left field, and another starting pitcher remain open. Where do the Giants go from here? Here are some free agent ideas and trade scenarios the Giants could look to approach here this week at the Winter Baseball Meetings and the rest of the offseason.

Sign Ervin Santana: Santana finds himself in the same position as last season, in the free agent market. When the Braves lost Brandon Beachy and Kris Medlen both to season ending arm injuries during Spring Training, they turned to Ervin Santana who was still looking for a team to sign with. Santana was looking for a multiple year deal which teams were ignoring to meet, so Santana settled for a one year deal. Once again, Santana is looking for a multi-year deal and has certainly earned the consideration. His last two seasons have been a success, and he made a case in 2014 with the Braves posting these numbers: 196 IP 14-10 3.95 ERA 179 K's. While Santana is turning 32, he is still in the prime of his career, and heading into possibly the last large contract of his career. The National League suits Santana the best at this point of his career, and what a better place to finish a career in a San Francisco Giants uniform. A team coming off three World Series Championships in the last five seasons, with a coaching staff that has done a phenomenal job, Dave Righetti would love to coach a talent like Ervin Santana. Playing at a pitcher's park like AT&T park, as Santana ages, his numbers should still continue to stay inflated. Giants missed out on Lester, but it is not the end. Prediction: 4 Years/$58 Million Deal

Sign James Shields: While Scherzer and Shields still loom on the market, these are still two aces who are looking to get signed. Shields came off a season where he helped lead the Royals into the playoffs, what he was brought in there all along to do. Shields is an innings eater who continues year-after-year to throw over 210 innings per season. The guy is reliable to go out there almost every game and throw seven innings. That is what you want in a pitcher and the guy at the top of the rotation. Shields has been around the game for awhile now, and is looking for his last big contract just like Ervin Santana and others are. Shields could make a nice transition to the National League to keep his numbers inflated to finish out his career. Shields had tough bouts with having to go against David Price, Max Scherzer, Chris Sale, and other aces in baseball and always seemed to come up empty-handed. It might be time for Shields to step back from being the main guy, and slide into the 2 or 3 slot in the rotation. The pressure will be off his shoulders while allowing someone else to guide the rotation. Shields still has game and he isn't on the decline. Just his time as a number 1 starter soon seem to be over where his best value should come from falling back in rotation. Shields is going to get paid good money regardless where he finds himself in a rotation, but pitching in Kauffman field (arguably, one of the best pitcher's parks in baseball) he can make a nice swap over to the National League and find himself in the ballpark where he and the Royals were defeated, AT&T Park. Giants have a starter vacancy and the Giants can add another top name to their rotation. Shields would be a nice option. Prediction: 5 Years/$85 Million Deal

Trade for Jay Bruce: Jay Bruce had a bad 2014 season, as did the Cincinnati Reds team in general. Only bright spot of their season was development of speedster Billy Hamilton and NL Cy Young Candidate, Johnny Cueto. Bruce has been a guy who was improving each season and didn't show signs of slowing down. Bruce did not have any struggle, and that came to him this season. This is not a long term concern or even a concern for next year. The team relied on him and Todd Frazier to carry the run support in a hitter's ball park. Bruce still finished with 18 Home Runs, but we all know he is capable to finishing above that. Bruce's value is down a little which could make him an interesting get before he returns to the old Jay Bruce. Already having signed an extension, Bruce makes $10 million per year, which is half of what Pablo Sandoval is going to make with Boston. The Giants have been using a platoon in left field ever since Barry Bonds retired from the game. While the Giants have not had an everyday left fielder since Bonds, now is the time for the team to add more bats into their lineup with the absence of Pablo Sandoval, possibly Michael Morse, and free agents here in the next offseason. Bruce has great numbers at AT&T Park, and can provide the big stick for a Giants offense who generally lacks the long ball. Not sure what the Reds want in return as they are experiencing a to-be rebuilding effort. I think the Giants could offer Kyle Crick, Matt Duffy, and Jarrett Parker to acquire Jay Bruce. 

Trade for Mat Latos: The National League West is not unfamiliar territory for Mat Latos, who pitched for the San Diegos from 2009-2011. Latos had unfortunate luck of missing part of the season, and slowly regained form. Once fully healed, Latos showed flashes of his old self. Latos is entering a contract year in 2015, where he looks to perform to earn himself an extension or bids for free agency to receive more money. Latos is 27, and has a lot of baseball left. Latos is just now tasting glimpses of prime years, and a new home may be best for him. Reds look to be rebuilding and Latos has value attached to him which can aid in the rebuilding process. Giants are looking to fill a starter spot in the rotation when they failed to get Jon Lester. If the Giants elect to forgo signing a free agent for big money, they could look to trade for Latos where they have the option of extending him. Latos, who is a fly-ball pitcher, would benefit by being traded to San Francisco. The vast park should aid his high home runs given-up rate, and post good numbers. Giants are looking to continue their winning ways, and Latos can help an aging rotation and pitching staff stay young. Giants could offer Kyle Crick & Matt Duffy. Duffy would be a nice option to replace Zack Cozart who has been a disappointment for the Reds.

Trade for Cole Hamels: The Phillies have been a disappointment the last three seasons and they are a team full of bad contracts, except Cole Hamels. Cole Hamels may not seem like an ace because he plays for the Phillies, but what he possesses is top of the rotation stuff and a guy who should be averaging 16-17 Wins a season. Hamels signed a big extension with the Phillies, but only has 4 years/$96 Million left on his contract. For an ace, that is a very likable contract for a team to manage. If Cole Hamels was a free agent today, he would probably be looking for a large contract to approach Clayton Kershaw contract status. With a lack of run support and a weak bullpen, Hamels earned losses that weren't his fault. Giants pushed for Jon Lester and came up empty, maybe it is time to focus attention to another big time starter who can fit along the top of the rotation with Madison Bumgarner. Hamels would have to accept being second in the rotation, as Bumgarner has simply become the ace of the rotation and top 5 pitchers in baseball. Phillies are in full rebuild mode, and Hamels is going to require extraction of three good prospects. For the Giants, this season and next season they have a lot of free agents to address, and they may want to keep some guys in the farm. As the Giants are entering a "dynasty", they might need to go all out to maintain this dominance. Hamels I think is worth targeting, more than the Giants interest they had in Jon Lester. For the Giants to please the Phillies, I think Kyle Crick. Matt Duffy, Hector Sanchez, and Chris Heston would do it.

Trade for Jordan Zimmermann: The Nationals last season were the best team record-wise when it came to winning the National League regular season. When the playoffs came around, the Nationals fell a part, but Jordan Zimmermann did not. Of the star power the Nationals have, Doug Fister and Jordan Zimmermann are the ones who played consistently all year. Zimmermann is entering a contract year and has earned whatever extension or money he will receive in free agency. Zimmermann isn't much of a strike out pitcher, but his craft works to his advantage and helped contribute a big part to the Nationals season. Not sure how much the Nationals value Jordan Zimmermann, but he appears to be dangled out there for offers as he is looking to get paid. Zimmermann should be of interest across country for the San Francisco Giants. Giants are all about pitching and Righetti would love to have another big time starter in the rotation with Bumgarner and Cain. With Cain's uncertainty on his return from injury, the aging Tim Hudson, and the shaky Tim Lincecum,  pitching just became the Giants main priority. To acquire Zimmermann, the Giants could offer Kyle Crick & Ty Blach 

Trade for Evan Longoria & Ben Zobrist: The likelihood of acquiring both Evan Longoria and Ben Zobrist in the same deal is far from likely, even though the Tampa Bay Rays have taken a hit this offseason. The Rays lost David Price last season. In this offseason, the Rays have lost manager Joe Maddon, bench coach Dave Martinez, Vice President Andrew Friedman, Starting Pitcher Jeremy Hellickson, and Relief Pitcher Joel Peralta. With uncertainty with their future in Tampa Bay, the Rays may be approaching a rebuild with new manager, Kevin Cash. Evan Longoria is the face of the Rays franchise, but if they rebuild, he doesn't need to be around for that; as the same goes for Ben Zobrist too. Attendance is already poor in Tampa Bay. It might be worth looking to trade Longoria and Zobrist separately, or possibly together. For a season looking to be cloudy despite having one of the best rotations in the American League East, Rays will be looking to acquire what they can in return for their two best players. Zobrist has eligibility for multiple positions (2B/SS/RF), and Longoria provides a solid glove and a power bat at the hot corner. Giants have openings at third base where Longoria fits perfectly and the middle of the batting order, but Zobrist is the only iffy player. If Zobrist can adapt to left field which he does not play regularly at any point of his career, it may be a learning experience. While it possesses a challenge to the trade, it is nothing I wouldn't put past Zobrist. Giants looked hard at Zobrist in 2014, but the Rays were wanting a lot in return at that point of the season; where the Giants were not positive how they wanted to approach the rest of 2014. For a hefty return, the Rays would most likely require Kyle Crick, Brandon Belt, Adam Duvall, and Matt Duffy, and Erik Cordier. Losing Belt would be a hit, but he soon will require to be paid, and holds up first base for when Buster Posey. Posey will need to play first full time at some point of his career. If the Giants called and made this offer, Rays might consider as a possible rebuild looms. 

Trade for Justin Upton & Chris Johnson: The Braves under-performed in 2014, which led to a very disappointing season. Braves now have lost Jason Heyward and Jordan Walden via trade to the St. Louis Cardinals and Tommy La Stella to the Chicago Cubs. While it is not a full rebuild, the Braves seems to be adding pieces to prepare for 2016 when they leave Turner Field, and open a new ballpark in Cobb County, Georgia. Justin Upton was acquired in a big trade between the D'Backs and Braves back in 2013 with a lot of prospects involved. With two seasons in Atlanta, Upton has lived up to expectation, but the team has fell short in production. Upton is entering his contract year, and Braves don't seem eager to sign him to an extension. Braves may be looking to deal Upton and receive a nice return, and let another team be financially responsible for him. Giants have holes at third base and left field, as left field would highlight a trade between the Braves and Giants. Back in 2011, according to Comcast Sportsnet Bay Area California, Upton was quoted saying "I hate going to SF. The ball travels like crap there." Alfonso Soriano is another player who refused to come play in San Francisco because he hated the weather in San Francisco. While this was 2011, money has its ways of talking sometimes, especially when you hit 29 Home Runs and 102 RBI's in 2014. Entering a contract year, Upton would be a great option and the Giants might entertain him to a nice extension if traded. Chris Johnson is just the icing on the cake, and a good ball player who plays hard. Above-average defender and solid contact hitter, Johnson is a safe option at third base and allows the Giants not having to turn to rookie Adam Duvall, who could be used in a deal to acquire both Upton and Johnson. Rumor has it that Upton and Johnson was a discussed in a trade to San Francisco a week ago, but talks died off. Upton and Johnson should be discussed again especially how the market has been going and how the trade market is starting to heat up. Before other teams reach out to the Braves, the Giants should consider shopping Kyle Crick. Matt Duffy, Adam Duvall, and Gary Brown. These players should be able to get the deal done, with the limited prospects the Giants have.

These are all assumptions and predictions I feel would help benefit the Giants to remain relevant and consistent for awhile. Three World Series Championships in five years is an incredible feat, but it may be time for the Giants to start spending to keep the dominance intact and remain consistent. Lester was a big miss, but there are plenty of valuable options still out there for the Giants to take advantage of and get involved. 

San Francisco Giants Wishful Thinking

2014 was once again a fun ride for the San Francisco Giants, with three championships in the last five years. The last thing you want to do is disband a team that seems to have a flow going on. Pablo Sandoval has left, Michael Morse looks to be gone, and two starter spots have opened with Jake Peavy and Ryan Vogelsong in free agency. There is definite openings the Giants need to address. Here are some wild assumptions, but honestly don't seem too unrealistic.

San Francisco Giants trade P Kyle Crick, P Chris Stratton, and 3B Adam Duvall to the Kansas City Royals for 1B Eric Hosmer: Hosmer was Kansas City's top draft pick in 2008 straight out of high school from Florida and was looked at to be their next star. Royals may be a little hesitant to trade Hosmer now or in the near future since they sent Wil Myers their other top prospect to Tampa Bay to acquire James Shields. Shields is most likely gone and it is a bat the Royals lost. Royals are a small market team and Hosmer's price will eventually rise to a sum I don't think the Royals will be able to support. Hosmer is a great defender, finds a way to put the ball in play, and is athletic with a lot of upside. Hampered by injuries and inconsistencies, Hosmer has not become the player they have hoped so far. While he is young and total value isn't up yet, Giants could part with three of their prospects to acquire Hosmer. Why bring Hosmer in? Brandon Belt was originally an outfielder in the minor leagues and was moved to first base. He is athletic enough that they could move him to left field just like they did with Travis Ishikawa. Belt and Hosmer are both great defenders but bringing in Hosmer and shifting Belt to left field would allow the Giants to stop the platoon in left field and have their every day player. Hosmer is 25 and has a lot of ball left and should be entering his prime in the next 2-3 years and would be a nice addition to the Giants, while still allowing them to spend money on free agents to sign a pitcher and third baseman.

San Francisco Giants trade P Kyle Crick and P Derek Law to Kansas City for P Greg Holland:
Another Kansas City player showing up on my list, but it is for a pretty important reason. The money their top players will be requiring, they can't pay all of them. Wade Davis, Kelvin Herrera, and Greg Holland formed one of baseball's fearful trios in 2014, and all are going to demand to be paid at some point. Davis and Herrera look more valuable to skill and age, and Holland is the odd man out. Still fairly young and in his prime, Greg Holland would be a big boost to an aging and dominant bullpen in San Francisco. Jeremy Affeldt, Javier Lopez, and Santiago Casilla all look to be gone in the next two to three years due to age, and Giants have young-and-ready guys to come up, and Holland would be a nice mentor to them. Holland is consistent with his high fastball and stellar with his slider which is hard to hit. Giants have the money and experience, adding Holland would just continue to their brilliance in the bullpen and take over for Casilla.

San Francisco Giants trade P Kyle Crick, 3B Adam Duvall, and P Chris Heston to Kansas City Royals for OF Alex Gordon:
Alex Gordon looks like the ideal San Francisco Giants player. He was the guy who nearly helped the Kansas City Royals win with one swing of the bat in the World Series in Game 7. Alex Gordon took awhile to develop into the player he is today but better now than never. Gordon is a gap hitter, smart base-runner who knows how to score, and arguably one of the best defenders in the game today. Gordon plays all out and hustles, solid arm, and makes acrobatic catches to save runs. Already playing in a pitcher's park in Kansas City, the shift would not be difficult and would help contribute to solid defensive group already fielded in San Francisco. His competitiveness fits well with this ball club, and the Giants would be able to meet his demands for a contract extension, as opposed to the Kansas City Royals. If this is not a move that could occur this offseason, maybe during the trade deadline, or next offseason. I would approve much of this move.

San Francisco Giants trade P Kyle Crick, 1B Brandon Belt, P Ty Blach to the Tampa Bay Rays for 3B Evan Longoria:
Highly admired since being drafted by the Rays, Evan Longoria has had high expectations every season. He has performed well or he doesn't seems to be the pattern. At age 29, Longoria is in his prime now, and possesses a big bat at a position where the Giants currently have a vacancy. Giants have won three World Series, and have plenty of money to spend and belong in the big market talk. San Francisco is a great city and is a sports city. Longoria signed a large extension with Tampa Bay, but their future is looking bleak with being stuck in Tampa Bay and Longoria is one of their most valuable assets. Giants need another right handed power bat in the line up and Longoria is that guy. Longoria has above average defense too and is athletic to make big stops. If he can continue to show he can stay health like he did in all 162 games in 2014 games, this a trade the Giants should bug the Rays with, as it would be good for the Giants and the Rays and a player who teams have not decided to contact yet. Giants would be ahead of the game and should continue to see themselves in playoff contention. Losing Belt would hurt, but receiving Evan Longoria back in return is not a bad move.

Predictions for Winter Meetings

Baseball season has been already in the works, but December 7th-11th may be the most exciting time of the offseason. General managers and members of each organization will be present in San Diego to work on deals to help out their ball clubs. Whether it is a trade or free agent signing, here are some moves I predict may go down. These are moves either not talked about, or moves that have been looking to get traction.

Cincinnati Reds trade P Mat Latos and SS Zack Cozart to the Los Angeles Dodgers for OF Andre Ethier, INF Justin Turner, and P Zach Lee:  Dodgers are looking to surpass the Giants and find success in the NL West and make a playoff push. Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke can't do it all themselves, and the rotation could use a boost with Mat Latos. Dodgers have been rumored to be in the running for Jon Lester and looking at trades to land Cole Hamels, but a trade with Cincinnati can be a nice piece in return to that rotation in Mat Latos.  Reds look to be in a small rebuild, and the Dodgers need to unload outfielders. Dodgers don't look willing to play Ethier every day and his demand will force him out of Los Angeles. A decent left fielder who has some left in the tank may feel motivated and provide a surprise for the Reds. Turner had a solid year off the bench for the Dodgers and Zack Cozart hasn't lived up to expectation in Cincinnati and a new change of scenery may be the solution. Turner would immediately start at shortstop and provide a bat in the lineup. Win-win situation for the Reds and Dodgers.

3B Chase Headley signs with San Francisco for 5 years/$68 Million: Currently, Headley has a deal set on the table by a mystery team for 4 years/$65 million. The team has not been identified yet, and it was rumored for a little while it was the Miami Marlins. Marlins recently have been reported to have dropped out on offering Headley. Could this offer be the Giants? $16 million a year for a player who has not seen consistent success since his almost MVP-worthy 2012 season, that seems a substantial amount for an average player. If the offer happens to not be the Giants who are aggressive in finding a Pablo Sandoval replacement, I could seem them upping the ante in money or throwing in an extra year. Look for Chase Headley to sign with the World Series Champs and pursue another playoff run in 2015.

Boston Red Sox trade OF Yoenis Cespedes to the Seattle Mariners for P Roenis Elias & OF Dustin Ackley: Boston Red Sox once again are big spenders in the offseason signing Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez, and seem to be pressing hard for Jon Lester. Mariners were one game removed from making the playoffs in 2014 and it seems they are trying to make a stance in improving the offense and jolting them into the 2015 playoffs and beyond. Already signing Nelson Cruz, who looks to be their big bat at DH, the Mariners need another corner outfielder with power. Matt Kemp and Justin Upton have contracts that are unfavorable, and Yoenis Cespedes has one year left who will most likely still be cheaper with a new contract. Cespedes defense cannot be ignored, and provides a powerful bat who drove in a lot of runs between Oakland and Boston. Boston wants Hisashi Iwakuma but he is more valuable than just Yoenis Cespedes. Dustin Ackley has had a hard time proving his worth after being a top 5 draft pick in his class. Ackley may need to find a new home and would be nice piece for Boston to use since he can play multiple positions. 

New York Yankees trade OF Mason Williams, P Manny Banuelos, & C Austin Romine to the Atlanta Braves for OF Justin Upton: This I think is a move out of desperation both by Atlanta Braves and the New York Yankees. Yankees are in desperation due to watching Toronto and Boston spend and trade their way to the top. Yankees have already made moves with Andrew Miller and Didi Gregorius and look to kick off their offseason here in San Diego. While Upton has been mulled with Baltimore, Oakland, and Seattle, his age, upside, and the chance for an extension is intriguing. With age and injuries getting to Brian McCann, Mark Teixeira, and Carlos Beltran, the Yankees need a new young slugger in their lineup to bring in the runs. Driving in over 100 runs in 2014, Justin Upton would be a great fit for the New York Yankees. Yankees system is always slim every year, but they do have three prospects who could help the Braves in their look to rebuild to get ready for 2016 in their new ballpark. 

San Francisco loses out on Jon Lester and signs P Ervin Santana for 5 Years/$62 Million: For the past three days, Giants growing interest for starting pitching has grown. With Jon Lester being at the top of the list and being reported as "all-in", the Giants are going to fall short. I think they truly want Jon Lester but at terms where they feel comfortable, and ultimately the Cubs, Red Sox, and the Dodgers are willing to risk a lot for him. Giants just came off another championship season and I don't think they want to risk a lot. By also reporting that they are looking at Santana and others, I think that is realistically their target. Ervin Santana signed a quick contract with the Braves in 2014 after losing Kris Medlen and Brandon Beachy to season-ending injuries. Then, the Braves became pitcher-hungry. Looking for a longer contract now to finish the remainder of his career, Giants would be a great fit for him. Santana pitched well in the National League, and would thrive in a pitchers park like AT&T park. While Lester would be fun and exciting to have in San Francisco, Santana is a nice fall back option and who could help the Giants.

P Jon Lester signs with... the Chicago Cubs: Chicago has it all going for them right now. They recently signed Joe Maddon to be their new manager, a plethora of young talent who look to be very good players in this league, and new ballpark renovations. Most importantly, they have hope. Cubs have been struggling for years and they deserve a championship. Theo Epstein has been scrutinized for his plan with the Cubs, but all those miserable seasons look to be coming together. Hiring a manager in Joe Maddon who knows how to build young talent into good ball players, he needs a good leader at the top like he had in David Price in Tampa Bay. Theo Epstein has money to spend, and safe to say, he misses Jon Lester. Personally, I think Lester had a better relationship with Jon Lester than the Boston organization itself. Boston and Chicago look to be the top choices, and Theo Epstein is looking more and more likely to land Lester. With young talent, Lester can guide them. 

Chicago Cubs trade SS Starlin Castro to the New York Mets for P Rafael Montero & Jonathon Niese: The New York Mets are looking to move pitching between Bartolo Colon, Jonathon Niese, and Dillon Gee. Cubs have the youth right now but need the veteran leadership. If the Cubs are probably on to Jon Lester, adding another vet in Jonathon Niese would be good. Mets have a gaping hole at shortstop as well too, and upgrading with a proven shortstop in Starlin Castro who's still young would be a nice target. Mets seem to like Syndergaard, and they can part with Rafael Montero. 

Baltimore Orioles trade P Wei-Yin Chen and P Tommy Hunter to Colorado Rockies for OF Charlie Blackmon: Rockies continually field solid offensive teams, but lack pitching. Generally finishing last in the majors in pitching, Rockies could finally see some hope in receiving a starting pitcher. Orioles need to find an outfield replacement for Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis, and Charlie Blackmon would be a nice addition who had a breakout year in 2014. Wei-Yin Chen had 16 wins for the Orioles in 2014, and pitched in a hitter-friendly park. Coors Field is a hitter-friendly park, but he does not have to throw to a DH now.

 

3 Moves Giants Need To Make in December

The MLB offseason has been a wild one so far, with surprising trades and stars on the move. While guys seem to flying off the market, there's quite a bit of players still out there unsigned, including Max Scherzer, Jon Lester, and James Shields. The Giants were the 2014 World Series Champions and what they've done in most recent years is try to keep their championship teams together. This season it is a little bit different with a little more holes to fill. Pablo Sandoval's decision to not return to San Francisco caught fans and baseball by surprise. Michael Morse was brought in as a risk/reward type of contract, with the Giants not knowing what he would provide. Morse flashed signs of his Washington Nationals days and it certainly bumped up his value in the market, making it seem less-likely he returns to the Bay Area. Sergio Romo was demoted to set-up man mid-season, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise because he went on to having a solid finish to the year with his slider back in order. As much as San Francisco would want a big fan favorite and solid reliever back in Sergio Romo, I am wondering if his value would be too high for what the Giants would want to pay him. With a stocked minor league system in bullpen help (regardless of what experts rank the farm system), Giants have Brett Bochy, Hunter Strickland (who showed signs of a future closer for the Giants), Derek Law who is coming off Tommy John surgery, Cody Hall, and Erik Cordier who are ready when they are called up. With letting Romo walk, that would open up a spot this year, and next season, Jeremy Affeldt and Javier Lopez could open two more spots. Focusing onto 2015, this could be a year where the Giants look in-house to replenish their roster and fill the voids, or maybe it is time to spend some money. It is no secret the Giants are well-off as a franchise who could place themselves Top 5 in team payroll in all of baseball. These are players I feel with the money to spend, Giants should look at all possibilities.

SP Justin Masterson (7-9, 5.88 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 116 K's) - When you look at these numbers, you wonder why would this player even be considered, especially even on a minor league deal? Coming off a career year in 2013 for the Indians, what he couldn't do in Boston, it had looked like Masterson had found his stuff. Indians looked like they possibly had a solid starting pitcher. 2014 came along and it was awful to say the least. It was an apocalyptic-like type of season which made us forget about 2013, back to where Masterson originally was, mediocre seasons and overlooked, not what he probably imagined. St. Louis thought they would give it a try at the trade deadline to bring in Masterson and the awful season continued there. Masterson dealt with an array of injuries, his command was off, and was left off the playoff roster. It was just not a great year. What Masterson did two years ago is encouraging that it is still not too late for the 29 year old to build some value up for a team on a risk/reward type contract. Masterson will not earn a lot in 2015, and that should fuel the fire for him to produce again. Dave Righetti is one of the great current pitching coaches in baseball and probably might be in a list among some of the greatest pitching coaches of all-time. Righetti would love to have a type of player with something to prove, and what better way than to bring Masterston to San Francisco. For a pitcher who puts a lot of balls in play, a vast pitchers park, AT&T park , would be ideal for Masterson to build some confidence. Defensively, the Giants don't possess a bad defense, and they are above average. Giants have worked with journeymen Ryan Vogelsong and Yusmiero Petit and turned them into good pitchers, most notably Petit who filled in for Matt Cain and took advantage of the opportunity. With a guy trying to prove his worth, and a team looking to continue on their success, Justin Masterson might be the Giants "San Francisco Treat".

RF Alex Rios (.280 BA, 4 HR, 54 RBI, 17 SB) - What has looked like for years, the Giants have been keeping their eye and trying to acquire Alex Rios via trade. A trade is no longer necessary for the 33 year old. To some, what may seem like a down year is a guy who was constantly moved around the Rangers lineup that can never be determined. What might be his last big contract of his career, Rios would probably be looking to settle somewhere for the rest of his career with a contender. Rios has been with the Blue Jays, White Sox, and most recently the Rangers. Rios has hit for power in the past but has balanced out his game and has seen the home runs take a dip. Back in 2008, the Giants pressed hard for Rios, but it would've come at the expense of losing a Cy Young winning pitcher at the time, Tim Lincecum. Rios now can be looking where he would like to play. Giants are tired of a platoon in left field between Blanco and whoever they can find. Rios has never played left field in his career, but an athletic player that Rios is, playing in left should be a nice transition. Giants stole little bases last season, and Rios can produce that. For being a gap-hitter, the Giants should be able to court Alex Rios who still can play at a high level minus the power numbers, would be a nice right-handed bat addition and the platoon can be dropped. Rios clubhouse leadership would also be a benefit to the World Series Champions.

3B Chase Headley (.243 BA, 13 HR, 49 RBI, 7 SB) - Pablo Sandoval was a large surprise leaving San Francisco for Boston changing the landscape at third base. Sandoval was the fan favorite, but his decision has left a thin third base market for the Giants to pursue, since resigning him was expected. Life after Pablo is here, and Giants have options in-house with Joaquin Arias, Adam Duvall, and a wild notion of moving Buster Posey to third base. Those two don't look ready to man the bag full-time. The top remaining third baseman on the free agent market is Chase Headley. 2013 and 2014 was injury plagued for Headley who may look to perform and get his numbers back up. In reality, Chase Headley and Pablo Sandoval have similar numbers and Headley is a better defender. Familiar with the NL West, having played for the Padres, Headley has played at AT&T park a handful of times, Giants would be silly not to pursue Headley with a thin free agent pool and a lack of people on the trade market. Headley would be a great voice and what he provides as a switch hitter, just like Pablo was. Headley may not sell Panda hats, but he can sell that he is a perfect fit for the San Francisco Giants. Yankees look to be the Giants biggest threat.