MLB Power Rankings: Top 10 free agents and where they’ll sign
By Tim Boyle
8) MLB Power Rankings: Free agent Dansby Swanson signs with the Cubs
Dansby Swanson had a terrific season for the Atlanta Braves at the exact right time. Unfortunately, the team didn’t make it past the NLDS, and the two sides never did come to terms on an extension before they were eliminated. This doesn’t remove the possibility of Swanson returning. However, the Braves have an obvious replacement with Vaughn Grissom.
Because of this and a desire by the Chicago Cubs to upgrade their roster, it’s the Northsiders who will end up with Swanson in the end.
Nico Hoerner had a fine year for the Cubs as their starting shortstop, but they can always move him to second base and give themselves a strong double-play combination. The Cubs bought lightly last winter. This offseason, they need to go bigger.
Swanson is behind several other free agent shortstops on this week’s MLB Power Rankings. A 25-home run season paired with 96 RBI wasn’t quite enough to push him forward following several disappointing seasons.
7) MLB Power Rankings: Free agent Carlos Rodon signs with the Giants
Free agent starting pitcher Carlos Rodon had a fantastic season with the San Francisco Giants. He’ll get another shot in 2023 and beyond as the Giants will re-sign him.
Rodon is one of the free agents on this list with an opt-out available. Topping 110 innings pitched quite easily, he’ll look to stay with a Giants team that we can all expect to make some major offseason moves.
Rodon’s first year with the Giants included a 14-8 record and 2.88 ERA. They’re going to need him back in the rotation next year to have any shot at competing seriously. As active as they will be this winter, they need to retain a few of their best players.
It’s possible we see it take a while for Rodon to sign. Still a little unproven in terms of durability, the Giants make the most sense to give him the best contract.