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MLB Free Agency: 5 potential landing spots for Daniel Murphy

By Dave Stevenson

October 20, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Mets second baseman Daniel Murphy (28) hits a two run home run in the eighth inning against the Chicago Cubs in game four of the NLCS at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
October 20, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Mets second baseman Daniel Murphy (28) hits a two run home run in the eighth inning against the Chicago Cubs in game four of the NLCS at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates hat and baseball gloves sit in the dugout prior to the Pirates hosting the Los Angeles Dodgers at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates could be an interesting fit for Daniel Murphy. Their interest in him will likely be determined by what they decide to do with Pedro Alvarez. Alvarez has a ton of power, but struggles to make contact. The Pirates have seemed to sour on him a bit and they could be ready to move on from him. If they do, they could pursue Daniel Murphy to help replace him.

The Pirates will likely need some time to decide whether or not to tender Alvarez a contract and whether or not to trade him. Whenever they decide what to do, Daniel Murphy is likely still going to be around because of his qualifying offer.

Murphy doesn’t have the power that Alvarez has, but unlike Alvarez, Murphy can offer the Pirates a steady bat. He’ll likely be more expensive, but the Pirates are a team that’s looking to contend so they might be willing to open their checkbook and get the clear upgrade in Murphy.

Murphy would likely split time at third base and first base for the Pirates because second base is currently occupied by Neil Walker. The Pirates already have Josh Harrison, who usually fills one of the two corner infield spots. If the Pirates sign Murphy, that would give them a solid corner infield both at the plate and on the field.

The Pirates could use a veteran like Daniel Murphy in their clubhouse. They could also use his versatility and consistent bat on the field. The best part? Murphy likely isn’t going to command that high of a salary. Sounds like a perfect fit for the Pirates to me.

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