Fansided

10 biggest bargains in MLB free agency

By Jackson Shannon

May 20, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Tim Lincecum (55) pitches during the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports
May 20, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Tim Lincecum (55) pitches during the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 23, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Baltimore Orioles left fielder Steve Pearce (28) singles during the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. Baltimore Orioles defeated Washington Nationals 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Baltimore Orioles left fielder Steve Pearce (28) singles during the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. Baltimore Orioles defeated Washington Nationals 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Steve Pearce

Steve Pearce had a breakout 2014 campaign in which he posted career highs with 26 doubles, 21 home runs, 49 RBI, 51 runs scored, and a .293 batting average, and was rewarded with a $3.7 million dollar one-year deal after the season. Unfortunately, the 2015 season wasn’t as successful for the thirty-two year old Pearce as he saw a dip in his production, with a batting average of .218 and a -0.4 WAR and once again finds himself in free agency. Pearce did smack 15 home runs and showed defensive flexibility appearing in left field, right field, second base, and first base during the 2015 season. The veteran utility player brings a lot of flexibility but is limited against right-handed pitching. Pearce plays with a chip on his shoulder and is the type of player who will give you everything he’s got and not to mention is a great clubhouse guy.

For teams looking for a veteran right-handed power bat off the bench at a low cost, Pearce could be the guy. Teams could consider a minor league contract with an invite to Major League Spring training as a low-risk, high reward option for Pearce. The Padres, Cardinals, Orioles, Marlins, and Rays could be potential landing spots.

Next: 8. Mark Buehrle

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