Fansided

MLB Free Agency 2017: Top 18 players left on the market

By Joshua Sadlock

Oct 14, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion hits a single against the Cleveland Indians in the third inning in game one of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Edwin Encarnacion hits a single against the Cleveland Indians in the third inning in game one of the 2016 ALCS playoff baseball series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 16, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Pedro Alvarez (24) receives congratulations from third base coach Bobby Dickerson (11) after hitting a home run in the second inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 16, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Pedro Alvarez (24) receives congratulations from third base coach Bobby Dickerson (11) after hitting a home run in the second inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Pedro Alvarez, DH

Alvarez is coming off a fine first season as a full-time DH and platoon hitter. He played 2016 on a one-year contract with the Orioles, and should be able to land at least a two-year deal this winter. Alvarez did not sign with Baltimore until the middle of Spring Training last year, and it slowed him down in April and May.

One of the only teams to be tied to Alvarez in a concrete rumor is the Red Sox. That would make sense, especially with Boston unable to afford Edwin Encarnacion. Alvarez’s swing would play well in Fenway Park, and would give the Sox a respectable left-handed power bat to replace David Ortiz.

The Orioles could also seek another go-round with Alvarez. Mark Trumbo appears to be the team’s primary target, but if they cannot land him, pairing Alvarez with rookie Trey Mancini at DH and signing a defense-oriented right fielder like Pagan could be the most logical path.

Overall, Alvarez handled his new role as a part-time player very well last year. He appears to have a nice career ahead for himself as a DH in the American League. His glove did him in with the Pirates, but he can mostly leave it at home for now, even if his agent is floating out the idea that he wants to try the outfield. Nice try.

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