MLB Free Agency: 10 potential free agent bargains

Oct 3, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Wei-Yin Chen (16) reacts as he comes out of the game during the fourth inning of game two of the 2014 ALDS playoff baseball game against the Detroit Tigers at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports /

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Chris Iannetta, C

Iannetta is coming off of a miserable year at the plate, so he doesn’t really stand out as a top free agent even in a very weak class at the catcher position. Still, Iannetta continues to demonstrate some skills that could make him a valuable free agent pickup with the ability to bounce back.

After three solid seasons to begin his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels, Iannetta took a big step backwards by posting a wRC+ mark of 80 over 317 plate appearances according to FanGraphs. At 32 years old, it’s possible that Iannetta is too far past his prime, and he’s likely only going to get a short deal as a result.

However, Iannetta still showed the strong plate discipline that made him an above-average hitter in the past. A .225 BABIP helped hold down his other numbers, making Iannetta a strong candidate to get back on track at the plate next year.

If Iannetta can get back to his offensive numbers from 2012-2014, he will be a very valuable pickup for someone. Even if Iannetta can’t do that, his good defense and outstanding pitch framing will make him a nice pickup for some team.

A reunion with former general manager Jerry Dipoto is possible, as the Mariners have a glaring need at catcher that Iannetta could fill for a low price.

Next: Doug Fister, SP

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