MLB Free Agency: 5 potential landing spots for Daniel Murphy

Houston Astros

The Houston Astros need to improve at several positions if they want to keep on improving upon their playoff appearance this season. The position where they need the largest upgrade? Third base. Luis Valbuena was a liability at the plate last season. The Astros are likely going to explore upgrades at third base over Valbuena. Daniel Murphy would be a great fit for the Astros.

The Astros also have a huge question mark at first base. Murphy would allow the Astros some flexibility because Murphy can play third base or first base. While Daniel Murphy’s bat would be below average at first base in terms of power, that might be a trade-off that the Astros would be happy to make. The Astros need guys who can get on base and make consistent contact. Murphy is a guy who can do both of those things whether he’s at third base or first base.

Murphy would give the young Astros a clubhouse leader. The Astros are one of the youngest teams in the league. That showed in the postseason as the Astros weren’t able to finish off the eventual World Series champion Kansas City Royals. Murphy isn’t going to command a huge contract. The Astros will likely pursue a big free agent like Chris Davis or even David Price. Murphy would give the Astros a clear upgrade and still have enough money to make that big move.

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