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MLB Free Agency 2017: 5 teams who should sign Mike Napoli

By Parker Hurley

Oct 19, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Indians designated hitter Mike Napoli (26) hits an RBI double during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays in game five of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 19, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Cleveland Indians designated hitter Mike Napoli (26) hits an RBI double during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays in game five of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mike Napoli is a top free agent on the market, but which team should pay up to make sure he’s a piece of their championship roster?

At age 34, Mike Napoli had a big season in 2016. He hit 34 home runs and drove in over 100 runs in the heart of the Indians lineup. Terry Francona brought in his former Red Sox player to be a clubhouse leader for a team with potential postseason dreams, and he brought just that as the Indians cruised to the division and an American League Pennant. Now that he is a free agent he has some options as to teams who may sign him. He could resign with a manager and team he is familiar with but given his potential value some teams may attempt to over pay for the veteran first baseman/designated hitter. With that said, here are those five teams.

5. Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles are a team right on the doorstep being a primetime contender. The team had Mark Trumbo as a first base and designated hitter option and he was a great fit in the middle of the lineup. However, he recently rejected a qualifying offer and will test the market. Trumbo will most certainly come at a steeper price than Napoli. If the Orioles are to miss out on Trumbo or decide that a bidding war for a 30-year-old Trumbo coming off of a year in which he hit well over his head in terms of power, and brings little value in terms of fielding.

They could look to outbid a team on Napoli, and still spend a fraction of what they would spend on Trumbo. Napoli would fit right into the exact role, and it is not off of the table that Napoli could have better or similar production. Napoli spent three seasons with the Boston Red Sox and has a strong track record in Yankee Stadium and at Fenway Park.

It would most likely be in the Orioles best interest to consider life after Mark Trumbo. Doing so with a short-term play like Mike Napoli is not a bad idea. Do not be surprised to hear that they may have some interest this off-season.

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