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MLB Rumors: 10 free agency signings that need to happen

By Steven McNeil

Oct 4, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles first baseman Chris Davis (19) doubles during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles first baseman Chris Davis (19) doubles during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 30, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets center fielder Yoenis Cespedes drives in a run with a sacrifice fly against the Kansas City Royals in the 6th inning in game three of the World Series at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets center fielder Yoenis Cespedes drives in a run with a sacrifice fly against the Kansas City Royals in the 6th inning in game three of the World Series at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Yoenis Cespedes – Baltimore Orioles

This is another one that makes sense. The Orioles at this point need to move on from Chris Davis and his massive contract requests and on to their real problem, the outfield. I think that Cespedes would thrive in Baltimore alongside Adam Jones. He wouldn’t replace Davis’ power, but he would be able to at least come close, especially if he brings along some of that power he displayed in Citi Field with the Mets in the second half of last year.

Everything seems to point to the Orioles and Davis reaching an impasse in contract negotiations, and the Orioles have already acquired someone who can take over at first base in Mark Trumbo. Adding Cespedes would give the Orioles a lot more than Davis can bring. Putting Cespedes and his 15.4 fWAR in left also adds defensive flexibility that would help Adam Jones out in center.

The real reason that the Orioles would go after Cespedes is his attractive slash of .271/.319/.345 and career wRC+ of 121. With Cespedes, Trumbo, J.J. Hardy, and hopefully a full season of Manny Machado and Matt Wieters, things would look better for the Orioles and their chances to compete in the AL East.

While the Orioles have a few more issues than losing Chris Davis, they also have a need for an impact bat if Davis is indeed not going to resign with the club, and Cespedes is that impact bat.

Next: Justin Upton

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