MLB Free Agency: 5 potential landing spots for Daniel Murphy

Cleveland Indians

The Cleveland Indians need a third baseman. They had a carousel of candidates try to earn
themselves the starting job at third base and none of them stood out. If the budget-conscious Indians are going to contend, they need to find a consistent third baseman. Daniel Murphy could be that guy at the right price.

Murphy isn’t going to command a huge salary in free agency. That benefits the Indians because they operate on a fairly tight budget. They also need more consistent hitters in their lineup. The Indians lineup would greatly benefit from having a guy like Murphy who relies more on contact than power as a hitter.

Indians manager Terry Francona has not been shy to use a platoon-heavy lineup at times. Murphy is a great fit for the Indians in that regard as well. He could play at third base or first base. He could even give Jason Kipnis rest at second base should he need one. Daniel Murphy is a left-handed hitter who can hit well enough against southpaws to deserve consistent playing time against them.

Do the Indians have other needs than third base? Sure. They could probably stand to add an outfielder like Justin Upton or Alex Gordon. Adding a starting pitcher wouldn’t be a bad idea. Daniel Murphy is an efficient player who will come at a reasonable price. That’s what’s important for the Indians.

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